Essential vocabulary and phrases for IELTS success. Includes contextual usage, collocations, and practice exercises.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will be looking in-depth at lexical resources for IELTS Exams, Marking Criteria, Synonym, Antonym, Paraphrasing and Collocations. Also, check the list of Lexical resources for the IELTS Test.
What is a Lexical resource?
The lexical resource is the criteria that measure the capability of language knowledge of the candidate based on the use of the various aspects of contextual vocabulary in particular.
In IELTS lexical resources are measured in the Speaking and Writing section where the idea is to be presented by the candidate as a task.
Marking Criteria:
While you are preparing for your IELTS Speaking Test it is important that you understand the marking criteria.
Lexical resources count for around 20-25% of your speaking test score, therefore it is vital that you understand what the examiner wants.
You will be able to achieve a higher score if you can demonstrate your ability to paraphrase and use synonyms. Knowing how to say something in a different way.
Using varied vocabulary and common word combinations is important in order to get a band score 7 or above.
How can we improve lexical resources in IELTS?
To get better at Lexical resources in IELTS you need to focus on following elements of English Grammar:
Synonym
Antonym
Paraphrasing
Collocations
Synonyms
What is a synonym?
Synonym, in general, is a word or phrase that offers the same or similar meaning to the word or phrase provided. Example: synonym of amazing is incredible, awesome Use of synonyms is a good way to show your vocabulary knowledge, as long as they are appropriate choices.
To be successful in all areas of the IELTS test you need to be able to recognise and use synonyms appropriately.
One way to do this when you are practising is by looking up for synonyms of common words in a thesaurus. This can help you to find synonyms but also to learn to select the right synonym to fit into your sentence.
Use of synonym: Example;
Last year we visited Corfu in Greece and it was amazing.
Can you think of another word to use other than ‘amazing’?
How about incredible, marvellous, awesome, stunning or wonderful?
Last year we visited Corfu in Greece and it was incredible.
Antonyms
What is an Antonym?
Antonyms, in general, is a word or phrase that offers the opposite or different meaning to the word or phrase provided. Example: antonym of early is late. You can use antonyms, to show your vocabulary/lexical ability as long as they are appropriate choices.
For example:
My language lesson was really early today. My language lesson was really late today.
Other examples of antonyms:
Happy and sad
Young and old
Risky and safe
Rich and poor
Cool and hot
Excited and bored.
Paraphrasing
What is an Paraphrasing?
Paraphrasing is an activity of presenting the sentence or phrase using alternate words(usually synonym and antonym) to attend better clarity.
It is a skill that is needed in all parts of the test. When the examiner asks you a question, you should not repeat the question back to them as part of your answer.
Instead, you should paraphrase it and this means restructuring.
For example, if the examiner asks you:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of young people using social media?
Your answer could include the words benefits and drawbacks, instead of repeating the words, advantages and disadvantages.
Question example:
Examiner: What kind of holiday do you like?
Answer 1
The holidays I like tend to be anywhere that is hot with a beach! I like to go and spend time with my friends.
Answer 2
When I travel, I really enjoy visiting places with a warmer climate, where I can relax on a beach. Last year I visited Corfu in Greece and I had the most wonderful time, exploring small unspoilt beaches by hiring a boat to tour the island.
Which one do you think is the better answer?
Answer 2 is better because it answers the question with more specific information. It also does not repeat words that are in the question.
Collocations
What is an Collocations?
A collocation is made up of two or more words that are commonly used together in English. Think of collocations as words that usually go together.
The more you use collocations, the more you will sound like a native speaker.
There are different kinds of collocations in English. Strong collocations are word pairings that are expected to work together.
For example;
make the bed: I need to make the bed every morning.
do the homework: My niece does her homework after dinner.
take a risk: Some people don’t take enough risks in life.
give someone advice: The teacher gave us some advice on taking tests.
Common verb collocations are often followed by particular nouns or adjectives.
For example;
make a phone call: I have to go and make a phone call.
get wet: It rained today and I got wet.
keep a record: I keep a record of all of my bank statements.
break down: I was on the way to work this morning and my car broke down.
Collocations are often used as short expressions to describe how someone feels about a situation. In this case, collocations can be used in the adjective form, or also as emphatic expressions using an intensifier and a verb.
For example;
positively encourage someone to do something: I’d like to positively encourage you to apply for the position.
deeply regret the loss of someone/something: I deeply regret saying no to that job offer.
to be in an utter fury over something: I am in an utter fury over missing out on getting those gig tickets.
to go to great lengths to do something: She went to great lengths to be able to move to another country.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will be looking in-depth at fluency and coherence.
While you are preparing for your IELTS Speaking Test it is important that you understand the marking criteria. Fluency and coherence count for 25% of your speaking score, therefore it is vital that you understand what the examiner wants.
Fluent >> Able to express oneself easily and articulately / smoothly graceful and effortless.
Coherent >> Logical and consistent.
When you are speaking, you want to show the examiner that you can talk about topics easily, without long pauses and repetition. You also want to show them that you can organise your ideas in a logical way.
Fluent Speech
When you are fluently able to speak you can talk at a normal pace, pause occasionally for emphasis and self-correct.
Some students find themselves speaking too fast or repeating words and phrases, which is something you should avoid doing.
You should aim to practice speaking in English as often as possible and for those of you already living in the UK (or another English speaking country) take the opportunity to talk to friends or colleagues. You can ask them to ask you questions to help you practice and they can also give you some feedback!
Some questions they could ask you >>
What did you do last night? / or at the weekend?
Did you see the latest episode of …. (insert TV show name) what did you think of it?
When was the last time you went to the cinema?
Are you going on holiday this year? Where are you going?
Have you read any good books recently?
Did you see/read about… (insert news story) what did you think about that?
You should answer with full sentences and avoid repeating the question back to them.
Speaking Coherently
When you are answering questions you should organise the information logically, starting at the beginning, describing /explaining and concluding.
For example, read the text below >>
I read a good book the other day about this woman who gets on the same train every day. It starts with this woman getting fired from her job, then getting the train home. Actually, it starts with her on the train then explaining that she got fired. There are blanks in her memory. She likes to look at a house when the train passes and the woman that lives there. She can’t remember things. She drinks a lot. My friend told me to read this book. The book was fast paced and interesting. I enjoyed it. I read it on the plane last month when I went on holiday.
Here it is again but organised in a more logical way >>
I read a really good book when I went on holiday last month after my friend had recommended it to me. It was a thriller, with a woman who had an abusive relationship and a drinking problem, that had been fired from her job. She rides the tube every day pretending to go to work and she is intrigued by a house she sees. She envies the woman who lives there and the story develops from there. Then, she gets involved with the woman’s story putting together the gaps in her own memory and begins to see how her own life is connected. This book was fast paced and interesting!
Do you think the second paragraph is more logical?
Can you see the difference?
The events in the book/movie etc should be explained in logical order.
Using Cohesive Devices
Your ideas should be in logical order but also connected by cohesive devices.
For example, if you were telling a story about your educational background it could look like this >>
I started school at 5 years old. I went to secondary school when I was 12. I left that school at 18. I went to university for three years. I graduated with honours. I had training. I work in my chosen field.
Introducing cohesive devices will make it sound more natural and explain the order of events in a logical sounding way >>
Firstly, I started school at 5 years old, then I went to secondary school when I was 12. However, I left that school at 18. After that, I went to university for three years, where I graduated with honours. In addition to that, I had further training. Now, I finally work in my chosen field.
Take a look at the cohesive devices below, the words and phrases here will help you to organise your ideas >>
Sequencing
You can also use sequencing to express your ideas in a logical way, take a look at the words and phrases below >>
Practice
Practice answering these questions below using cohesive devices and sequencing >>
What do you think are the main reasons that students in recent years like to take a gap year?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of young people using social media?
Do you agree or disagree with the idea that technology is developing faster than the public think?
Is it a good idea to try out new restaurants recommended by friends?
What did you do last weekend
Can you use any of the following words or phrases in your answers?
Firstly / secondly……
Then
After that
Overall
However
In addition
Therefore
For example
For instance
On the one hand
On the other hand
Finally
Now
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Expert tips and strategies for this part of the IELTS Speaking test. Includes sample responses and key vocabulary for Band 7+.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
The IELTS Speaking Test lasts 11-14 minutes.
The test has three parts, where you are interviewed by a trained examiner. You are not allowed to use a dictionary during the test. IELTS Academic and IELTS General students take the same test and it is marked in the same way.
The three parts of the test are as follows;
IELTS Speaking Part 1
Duration: 4-5 minutes
You will be asked questions on familiar topics, like your hobbies, family, where you are from, what your hometown/city is like, etc.
The topics might include;
Your studies/education
Hobbies/sports
Your family
What kind of movies, books, tv shows or music you like
What you like to eat / where you like to eat
Your job
Where you live
IELTS Speaking Part 2
Duration:3-4 minutes
First, the examiner will give you one minute to think about the question and make notes. Next, you will speak for 1-2 minutes uninterrupted. Then the examiner will ask you a further two or three questions about what you have said.
For example: you might be asked a question like this on your cue card >>
“Describe an interesting place you have visited”
You should say;
When you visited?
What you did when you were there?
What activities you could do there?
Would you recommend it to others?
IELTS Speaking Part 3
Duration:4-5 minutes
The examiner will ask you further questions related to the question topic from part 2. This will give you the opportunity to discuss more abstract ideas.
The cue card used as an example above was asking you about a place you had visited. Further questions might include;
Why do you think the tourist industry is growing?
How do people choose a destination for their holiday?
Some people like to take a package holiday, while others prefer to explore and organise the trip themselves, why is this?
IELTS Speaking Criteria
The IELTS Speaking Test is designed for you to be able to talk about, describe and explain your own experiences and opinions.
You will be assessed on the following criteria;
Fluency and Coherence
Lexical Resource
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Pronunciation
It is important that you take the time to read the IELTS Speaking Band Descriptors and familiarise yourself with what is expected for the higher scoring bands. Like other parts of the test, you will be given a band score from 0-9. With the academic students aiming for a band score of 7, the criteria is as follows;
Non-native speakers who can express themselves on most subjects but frequently pause to think of words or ideas, mostly get a band score 5 or 6. Native speakers would be expected to get an 8.5 or 9.
The examiner is looking for your ability to speak English well, expressing your own opinions and feelings. Your score will be lower than a 7 if you make frequent mistakes or the examiner has trouble understanding you and what you are trying to say.
Requirements from universities and immigration agencies vary. Most students will need at least a band score 6 for undergraduate study. For postgraduate study or immigration, a band score 7 is generally required.
Curated resources to boost your IELTS preparation. Practise with authentic English materials used by successful candidates.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will take a look at my top 5 picks from TED Talks.
Listening to talks or lectures will really help you to develop your listening skills for the IELTS Listening Test. Listening to something that interests you can make studying more fun and can raise your enthusiasm. If you just practised listening with IELTS test papers you might get bored and lose interest. Dividing up your listening practice into sections, where you study both listening test papers and other sources will be helpful.
Listening to various sources like TED Talks, will not only help you to develop your listening skills but also to improve your use of general English. Non-native speakers often develop their language skills by watching TV shows or movies. For more academic content, listening to TED Talks or TED-Ed is a great way to listen to different accents and test your listening abilities.
Take a look at my top 5 TED Talks below and let me know what you think in the comments!
1. Do Schools Kill Creativity? – By Sir Ken Robinson
This talk is not only saying a lot about the education systems around the world but the speaker is very funny. When I first watched this video, I was laughing so much and I thought that he was not only an excellent public speaker, engaging with the audience but he supported his key points with really funny moving stories. I also share his views about the arts being seen as lesser subjects in schools and colleges and I am hopeful that one day that mindset will change.
Listen to the talk and see what you think, make some notes on the following questions >>
What are the key points?
What do you think of the speaker?
Did you enjoy the talk?
What is his opinion on the school systems?
How did the talk make you feel?
Did you write down any unknown vocabulary?
2. What I saw In The War – Janine Di Giovanni
Listen to the talk and see what you think, make some notes on the following questions >>
What are the key points?
What do you think of the speaker?
Did you enjoy the talk?
How did the talk make you feel?
Did you write down any unknown vocabulary?
3. The Man Behind Tesla, SpaceX, SolarCity by Elon Musk
Listen to the talk between two people and see what you think, make some notes on the following questions >>
What are the key points?
Do they agree or disagree on anything?
How well did you understand the content?
Did you write down any unknown vocabulary?
4. Rethinking Infidelity… A Talk For Anyone Who Has Ever Loved By Esther Perel
Ester Perel is a Psychotherapist and her talks are very popular!
Listen to the talk below and see what you think, make some notes on the following questions >>
What are the key points?
How well did you understand the content?
Did you enjoy the talk?
Did you write down any unknown vocabulary?
5. How Fake News Does Real Harm By Stephanie Busari
Listen to the talk below and see what you think, make some notes on the following questions >>
What are the key points?
How well did you understand the content?
Did you enjoy the talk?
Did you write down any unknown vocabulary?
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Proven strategies for this IELTS Listening question type. Includes prediction techniques and common traps to avoid.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will take a look at the 5 main listening skills you need to have to be successful in the IELTS Listening Test.
It’s a wonderful idea for you to not only practice with IELTS Listening Tests online but also to listen to talks, podcasts, audiobooks, documentaries, tv shows, the news and movies. Listening to something that you are interested in during your preparation will make you enjoy it more! This will not only help you to develop your listening skills but also to improve your use of general English. Non-native speakers often develop their language skills by watching TV shows or movies. For more academic content, listening to TED Talks or TED-Ed is a great way to listen to different accents and test your listening abilities.
Take a look at the skills needed in this post and practice using the exercises, see how much information you can focus on and how much of it you can understand. There are multiple-choice questions for most of the videos if you visit the TEd-Ed website. Links are underneath each section.
1. Prediction
During your IELTS Listening test preparation, you should aim to practice predicting the answers before you start listening to the recording. Read through the questions and think about the context, what is the main subject? A teacher talking to students? Are the students asking for essay feedback? Get an idea of what the main subject is before you start to listen so that you know what you are listening out for.
Predicting is an important skill to have, it helps you to foresee the content and this makes it easier to understand the speaker.
TIP >> Practice with IELTS test papers and also with talks from TED-Ed, where you can practice predicting answers with multiple-choice questions.
Listen to the talk below from TED-Ed, and answer these questions: Visit the website for multiple-choice questions.
How do kidney stones grow in the first place?
Why are they so painful to get out?
2. Take Short Notes
Taking short notes during your listening practice will help you to determine the right answers. In the test, you are allowed to make notes on the exam paper, so it makes sense to do this during your preparation too. It is particularly useful in the maps, plans and diagrams questions, where you may need to draw lines after listening to directions.
TIP: Listen to a talk/lecture and make short notes on the content.
Listen to the talk below from TED-Ed, and make short notes to answer this question: Visit the website for multiple-choice questions.
How can various compounds impact the way we physically feel, think, and even behave?
3. Synonyms and Paraphrasing
Being able to paraphrase and recognise paraphrasing is also very important. Many of the speakers will paraphrase – the questions may paraphrase using different words with the same meaning (synonyms). Always read the questions before you start listening to the recording.
TIP: Practice by listening to a talk/lecture and writing down any vocabulary you do not know. Then look up the words and keep a note of the meaning. Keeping a vocabulary notebook is a great idea, to help you to learn new words.
Listen to the talk below from TED-Ed, and make a note of any words you do not know, look for the meaning of the words and check for synonyms in a thesaurus. Visit the website for multiple-choice questions.
4. Recognising Sequencing
When you hear someone talking through a process or a lecture they are about to give, they will most likely use sequencing, for example, words like; first of all, secondly, next, after that and finally. When you hear these words you know where you are in the talk and what the speaker is going to say next. It will make it much easier for you to find your answers in the recording if you can recognise the sequence of events.
TIP: Listen out for the language of sequencing when you listen to a talk/lecture.
Listen to the talk below from TED-Ed, and make a note of the sequencing words used. Visit the website for multiple-choice questions.
How does the speaker talk you through the process?
Do they sign post certain steps with words you recognise?
5. Understanding Opinion and Attitude
You should be able to understand how the speaker feels or thinks about a subject. For example, in a talk about travelling, you may hear views on certain places and how they feel when going there. This can help you to understand how they explain their opinions and views through the language they use.
TIP: Listen to a talk/lecture and think about how the speaker is thinking and feeling. Make notes and consider the vocabulary they are using.
Listen to the talk below from TED Talks, and see if you can answer the questions below;
How does the speaker feel about allowing children to be creative in school?
How does he share his opinion on the subject?
What vocabulary does he use to give his opinion? I think…. / In my view etc
How does the speaker support his opinions? with examples?
What kind of examples does he share?
What is his overall attitude to the education system?
Proven strategies for this IELTS Listening question type. Includes prediction techniques and common traps to avoid.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will be looking at how you can understand the IELTS Listening Test Band Scores for both the Academic Test and The General Training Test.
The IELTS Listening Test has 40 questions with each correct answer given one mark. The score you get out of 40 is then converted into a band score. The scores are reported in both whole and half bands.
The table below shows the average number of marks required to attain a certain band score in the IELTS Listening Test.
Number of correct answers
IELTS Listening Band Score
39-40
9
37-38
8.5
35-36
8
32-34
7.5
30-31
7
26-29
6.5
23-25
6
18-22
5.5
16-17
5
13-15
4.5
11-12
4
IELTS Listening Band Score
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
How IELTS Listening Band Scores Are Calculated
Your IELTS Listening band score is based on the number of correct answers out of 40 questions. There is no negative marking — incorrect answers simply receive zero marks. The raw score is then converted to a band score on the 1-9 scale.
Score Conversion Table
Correct Answers
Band Score
39-40
9.0
37-38
8.5
35-36
8.0
32-34
7.5
30-31
7.0
26-29
6.5
23-25
6.0
18-22
5.5
16-17
5.0
13-15
4.5
Note: These are approximate conversions. IELTS uses a variable conversion table that may differ slightly between test versions to account for difficulty.
Tips to Improve Your Listening Score
Read questions before each section plays: Use the preparation time to underline keywords and predict answer types.
Listen for paraphrases: The audio will rarely use the exact words from the question. Train yourself to recognise synonyms and restatements.
Watch for distractors: Speakers may mention an answer and then correct themselves. Listen for phrases like “actually,” “I mean,” or “no, wait.”
Practise with varied accents: IELTS Listening features British, Australian, North American, and other English accents.
Check spelling and grammar: Misspelled answers are marked incorrect. Pay attention to singular/plural forms.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Writing more words than the instruction allows (e.g., writing three words when “NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS” is specified)
Missing the answer while writing a previous one — keep pace with the recording
Not transferring answers carefully to the answer sheet in the final 10 minutes
Leaving answers blank — always make a guess as there is no penalty for wrong answers
Originally published on IELTS Achieve. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
Proven strategies for this IELTS Listening question type. Includes prediction techniques and common traps to avoid.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will take a look at how you can practice using your listening skills so that you can be super successful in the IELTS Listening test.
There are 5 main tips that you can follow to make sure that you are improving not only your listening skills but also your General English.
Take a look and try out the practice exercises!
1. Give It Your Full Attention
When you listen to something, a practice test, youtube videos, audiobooks or podcasts etc, try to be fully focused on what you are hearing. Don’t allow yourself to become distracted. If you have other things on your mind and you tend to zone in and out, try to sort out things you need to do before you start your listening practice and preparation.
When listening, pay your full attention to the words used and the tone of voice. This will help you to find out the information you need.
Listen to the TED Talk below and think about the following questions >>
What story does the speaker tell about his sister?
What is the reason he wakes up every morning?
How do people measure their happiness?
What examples does the speaker give to support his points?
Should we work harder in order to be happy?
2. Pick Up Key Points
Many people lose focus when someone has been talking for more than one minute. It is really easy for our attention to drift away and start thinking about other things, making us miss out on information the speaker has given.
Try to stay focussed and listen out for key points the speaker is giving to you. For example, if you are listening to a TED talk, think about the key points you have heard and make some notes.
Listen to the TED Talk below and think about the key points >>
3. Practice Active Listening
Focus completely on whatever you are listening to and what the person is saying. A good exercise to do for practice is to sit down with a friend and practice giving feedback on what they have been saying. You should focus on their words, grammar and how they give you their information. Doing this will make you think about the information they are giving you in much more depth, focus on the specifics.
Active listening will help you to think about understanding pronunciation, vocabulary, grammar and structure.
Listen to the TED Talk below and think about the following >>
Pronunciation
Vocabulary
Grammar
Structure
4. Be Curious
Be a curious learner and listen to more than just the IELTS practice tests. Look for opportunities to practice your listening skills in other places, such as listening to podcasts, TED talks, the news, tv shows, documentaries or audiobooks. Always be on the lookout for interesting things you can listen to.
Take a look at the links below and listen to some great content:
When you listen to a TED talk or the news, for example, think about the views of the speaker, how do they feel about the issues? What are their thoughts on the subjects that are being discussed? Being able to recognise the attitude and opinion of the speaker are necessary to be successful in the IELTS Listening Test.
Look out for the language they use to convey their opinions to the audience and how you pick up on that, what type of vocabulary do they use? How do they tell the audience what they think?
Watch the video below from TED Talks, can you answer the following questions?
How does the speaker feel about the refugee crisis?
What language does the speaker use to convey his opinions to the audience?
Proven strategies for this IELTS Listening question type. Includes prediction techniques and common traps to avoid.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will look at how to follow a lecture or talkin the listening test.
The questions in the IELTS Listening Test will ask you to focus on the key points given by the speakers, so it is important for you to practice identifying the key points in a talk or lecture.
Exercise 1
Listen to the TED Talk below and answer the following questions >>
What are the key points?
Which of the following describes the main topic of the talk?
Explaining how the refugee crisis is growing
Describing how the refugee crisis is slowing down
How to rebuild places that have been destroyed by war
Answers are at the bottom of the page.
Exercise 2
You may be asked to complete a summary in the listening paper that summarises the content of the talk or lecture you have heard.
Listen to the lecture below (only once), then complete the summary >>
Write NO MORE THAN ONE WORD for each answer
Summary
Lead was used for years in many household items including 1. ………………………… It can cause many health issues including rashes, abdominal pains and 2. ………………………… The effects of this can be really serious in young children, as their brains are constantly growing at a fast rate. For them, it can cause 3. …………………………….. memory loss and behavioural issues. Lead can block chemical signals and weaken 4. …………………………………
Answers at the bottom of the page.
Exercise 3
Listen to the TED Talk below and answer the following questions >>
What is the purpose of the talk?
What illness did the speaker have?
How did she feel?
What was the name of her nurse?
What did the nurse believe?
What did they talk about?
How long did the speaker spend documenting nurses for her book?
What were the issues she looked at?
Who was the first nurse she met?
What did the Native American patient bring to the ICU?
Who was the second nurse?
Who was the third?
Where was he a nurse?
He is both a nurse and a _____?
Who is the fourth nurse she met?
What did she do to introduce therapy to her patients?
Answers at the bottom of the page.
REVIEW AND STRATEGY
TIP >> It is important that you read the questions and familiarise yourself with the content you are looking at before you start listening.
TIP >> Listen out for the speaker introducing themselves and the talk, this might help you to follow the information and focus.
TIP >> Listen carefully for information but be wary of distractors.
TIP >> Make short notes during the talk when listening for specific information.
Answers >>
Exercise 1
Key Points
The refugee crisis is growing.
The refugee children want to have an education.
Individual stories from refugees – are the examples given to support the seriousness of this crisis.
The public should invest in the future of refugees, with skills and education.
Main topic = Explaining how the refugee crisis is growing
Exercise 2
1. paint
2. anemia
3. headaches
4. neurones
Exercise 3
1. To give acknowledge and give credit to nurses
2. Breast cancer
3. Terrified and scared.
4. Joanne Staha
5. That her life will be back to normal again
6. They talked about her boyfriends, the plan to look for an apartment in New York and her reaction to chemotherapy
7. 5 years
8. Public health issues; ageing, wars, poverty and prisons
9. Bridget Kumbella
10. Bunch of feathers
11. Jason Short
12. Brian Mcmillion
13. Germany
14. Soldier
15. Sister Stephen
16. Baby animals like baby ducks and baby lambs.
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If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Essential strategies and practice techniques for this IELTS Reading question type. Learn how to manage time and improve accuracy.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will look at multiple choice and matching questionsin the listening test.
Multiple Choice Questions
You may have read the information about multiple choice questions in the reading skills section and be familiar with the format.
In the IELTS Listening Test, multiple choice questions are testing your skills of understanding the main idea in the recording and your ability to listen for specific information.
Some multiple choice questions start with a question, that has (for example) three possible answers.
Some questions will ask you to select a few answers.
You may be asked to select three answers out of seven. Therefore it is really important that you listen carefully to the recording.
TIP >> You must make sure you read the question before beginning to listen to the recording so that you choose the right amount of answers and have an idea what you are listening for.
TIP >> You should also listen for distractors, as they are used a lot in the multiple choice and matching questions.
TIP >> Concentrate when you record your answers, students often make errors and that loses them marks.
Short Answer Multiple Choice Questions
The first type of multiple choice question you might see is a short answer question. In this type of question, you will see a statement and a number of different options to choose from.
TIP >> You will possibly hear all of the options in the recording, but be careful that you do not just choose the first option and think that it is correct.
TIP >>Vocabulary – look out for certain words like but, however, or though, as they suggest the speaker is going to offer some alternative information.
Question Example
Sentence Completion Multiple Choice Questions
The second type of multiple choice question you may see is a sentence completion question. You will be given an incomplete sentence and you will have to complete it choosing from a certain number of options.
These questions are longer than other questions you will see in the listening test. You should have a quick read through and highlight any keywords you see.
You should also be aware of paraphrasing, as the speaker will probably paraphrase and use synonyms.
Question Example
Multiple Options
Some questions will ask you to select a few options and you must choose the right amount of options (and the right information obviously) in order for your answers to be correct. Therefore it is really important that you read the question before you listen to the recording.
The speaker on the recording might talk through all of the options, so concentrate and listen out for words and phrases that could distract you. These are often in there to trick you into choosing the wrong answer.
TIP >> Try to relax, when students are under stress to choose the right answer then move on quickly, they often lose marks as they choose any option. If you do miss it, there is no harm in taking a guess rather than leaving a blank space.
Attitude And Opinion
In some of the recordings you will hear, you will listen to speakers discussing an issue, making a decision or making an agreement. This means that you will have to identify an opinion or an attitude.
Listen carefully and see how the speaker uses language to convey their opinion or attitude towards something.
For example;
I was reluctant …..
I was surprised……
I am feeling hopeful………..
I’m wary about that…………
I am doubtful………..
I feel confused……….
Matching Questions
In matching questions you will see two parts with information. The questions will be numbered and appear in order. This means that the questions will be in the order of the information given in the recording.
You will see a box alongside the question in which to choose options and these are given in a random order. It is a good idea to cross out any options you do not need.
REVIEW AND STRATEGY
TIP >> Read the instructions and questions before you start listening to the recording. What are you being asked to do? Familiarise yourself with the questions and think about the context.
TIP >> Look at the options you have been given and highlight any keywords.
TIP >> Listen carefully for information but be wary of distractors.
TIP >> Be aware of paraphrasing and synonyms.
TIP >> Listen to the information carefully and don’t just choose the first option you hear. The speaker will probably mention all of the options – so listen to all and keep looking at the list of options, to select the right ones.
TIP >> If you do miss an answer or were not sure, then it is ok to take a guess. This is better than leaving a blank space and you never know, you might answer correctly!
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
Step-by-step guide to answering this type of IELTS Writing Task 1 question. Covers structure, key language, and band-scoring criteria.
Originally published July 2017. Last reviewed 3 July 2026.
In this post, we will look at diagramsin the listening test.
In the IELTS Listening test, you may see questions that ask you to label a diagram or process. The diagram may be a dissection of a machine or the different parts of a process.
When you listen to the speaker talk through the diagram or process, they will describe it in a logical way and explain everything clearly. You must follow the speaker and not think about your own knowledge of the subject.
TIP >> Listen out for the sequence of events – first, second, next, after that, finally.
TIP >> Be aware of paraphrasing during this part of the test.
Diagram Question
The question below shows a diagram with some parts labelled. The recording would talk you through the parts and their position. You would match up the answers to the correct part.
Question
Write the correct number, 1-5, next to Questions A-E.
Labelling Mechanical Parts
A question may ask you to label the parts of a machine or device.
Questions 1-5
Write the correct letter, A-F, next to questions 1-5 below.
Tachometer Drive Parts
Grammar
When you describe a process, you would use adverbs and prepositions of movement.
Prepositions used with the verb to be can be used to state the location of something.
For example;
The electrical cable is underneath the floor.
The water pipe is above the water tank.
Prepositions that show movement are sometimes combined with verbs other than to be.
For example;
The water was pumped out of the tank.
The wires were moved to another wall.
Prepositions of Movement
Prepositions of movement are used to show movement to or from a place.
For example;
to, through, across
When you use the word to it can show movement to a specific destination.
The pipe is going to reach the end of the house.
The pipe goes to the air conditioning unit.
Through is used to show movement from one side of a confined space to the other.
The cable went through the interior isolation.
The water pipe passes through the exterior of the house.
The word across is used to show movement from one side to another.
To reach the outside line, the pipe was passed across the roof.
To get to the outside patio the cable went across the room.
More prepositions of movement >>
along – the inside of……
around – the edge of……
away from – the tracks
back to – the machine
down – the side of…..
into – the heating element
off – the side of the wall
out of – the box
over – the table
past – the pipe
round – the side of the machine
towards – the area beneath the table
under – the fan
up – the main cable line
The words at and in can be used to show the purpose of movement, for example;
The long thin cable is at the bottom of the wall.
The ceiling fan is moving slowly in the other room.
Sequence
The words below can help you to connect the stages of the process you are writing about.
Sequencing helps you as the listener to understand the information clearly. This will also help you in Academic Writing Task 1 – Process.
Process
A question may ask you to label the stages of a process.
TIP >> Study the process before you listen to the recording and read the list of options.
REVIEW AND STRATEGY
TIP >> The plans, maps and diagrams questions do not follow the order that you hear the information in the recording. Therefore it is important that you read the questions and familiarise yourself with the diagram or process you are looking at before you start listening.
TIP >> Study the diagram or process and see where things are before listening to the recording. Marks can be lost if you do not do this and read the questions properly.
TIP >> Listen carefully for information but be wary of distractors.
TIP >> Make notes on the paper and draw lines etc. This may help you to locate information.
We hope you found this post useful in helping you to study for the IELTS Test. If you have any questions please let us know in the comments below or on the Facebook page.
The best way to keep up to date with posts like this is to like us on Facebook, then follow us on Instagram and Pinterest.
If you need help preparing for the IELTS Test, join the IELTS Achieve Academy and see how we can assist you to achieve your desired band score. We offer an essay correction service, mock exams and online courses.
