IELTS is a widely recognized English proficiency test opted by many aspirants who wish to study abroad or want to build a professional career. This language test is conducted in four modules known as Reading, Writing, Listening and Speaking, each with its own minimum band requirement.
Among all the modules, Listening has always been thought of as the easiest, and that is why it is not much practised by many. Candidates often ignore the fact that it is actually the only module which could help them in uplifting the overall band score in IELTS.
Summary of the IELTS Listening module
There is only one listening test for both Academic and GT candidates, which means all candidates, will listen to the same audio and will be scored on the same levels.
The IELTS Listening test is of 40 minutes in which the recording lasts for 30 minutes.
Audio is divided into 4 parts and is played only once.
For the paper-based Listening test, it is important to listen and write the questions at the same time on the question paper. After the end of the recording test, extra 10 minutes are given to transfer the answers from the question paper to answer sheet.
For the Computer-delivered IELTS Listening test, however, answers are typed directly into the computer. Candidates are NOT given extra 10 minutes to transfer the answers instead 2 minutes are given to review and modify the written ones.
Test takers are given time to read the questions before the audio starts.
If the word is spelled wrong, it will be marked incorrect.
10 Essential IELTS Listening Tips
In order to achieve the desired band score right, listening techniques are very important.
The IELTS Listening test has 40 questions of 1 mark each so rather than attempting it as a single paper, candidates should think of it as 4 papers of 10 marks each.
For each set of questions, close attention should be paid on word count limit and how it changes for the next set of questions.
As the audio is played only once candidates are required to multitask, which means they should be able to read the question, listen to the answer and write it on paper at the same time.
Highlighting the right choice of keywords before the recording is played helps test takers to understand the demand of the question.
A lot of extra information is generally added in the audio so candidates should not try to understand everything. Marking the right keywords provide them with the benefit to stay focused on listening answers to questions.
Another trick used in confusing the listeners is the gap in answers. Often, some answers come quickly while some answers can take time.
. It is common in part 4. So, DON’T PANIC!
Close attention should be paid to contractions like can’t, couldn’t, shouldn’t, and words which are plural as these will certainly be given in the audio to check the listening ability of test-takers.
Do not be sure of the answer until the conversation or the topic by the speaker is complete as there is always a chance of change in the answers by the end of the audio.
Answers can be written in capital or in lower case letters, but it is always recommended to use capital letters for a better understanding of answers.
Since there is no negative marking in IELTS Reading and Listening tests, it is suggested to write something in the box if there is no surety of the right answer.
Lastly, if any answer is missed, just move on to the next question. Do not waste time as this will result in losing hold on the audio.
If you wish to study in Canada, you need to have a great IELTS score. We hope that our blog will help you ace the Listening module of IELTS. If you wish to study in top colleges or universities in Canada, then visit www.iapply.io, and our advisors will help you realize your dreams!
