How to start Preparing for the IELTS Exam
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The Surprising Benefits of Tea break time
Hello my dear Chai Buddies and welcome to another blog. In the last couple of blogs, you have already known how to find out your niche for your college applications and even choose your college based upon that, delved into the unfolding of the battle of seasons between fall and spring intakes and perhaps you may have decided what's best for you. So I assume you are ready with your shortlist of universities. You may also have read through how to craft a stunning application that gets you an interview. An important part of applying is checking that all the criteria for application are met. So, in today's blog, we will talk about an important aspect of college applications that may also be helpful at later stages for visa interviews - the IELTS exam for English language proficiency. There are other tests too for testing one's English language proficiency. And we will discuss all of them in later blogs. Today, we will be discussing one of the most popular tests - IELTS. Here, we will discuss - how can you start preparing for the IELTS exam and how beverages like tea or fruit juices can help you prepare better. So, enjoy studying hard and also have a beneficial tea break time. Let's get down to the matter.
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| Photo by Mana Akbarzadegan on Unsplash |
The IELTS assesses your English language proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening, and is widely recognized by educational institutions, employers, and immigration authorities around the world. Preparing for the IELTS can be challenging, but with the right strategies and techniques, you can boost your chances of success.
- Understand the test format and scoring criteria
The first step to preparing for the IELTS is to familiarize yourself with the test format and scoring criteria. The IELTS is divided into four sections: reading, writing, speaking and listening. Each section is designed to assess a different aspect of your English language proficiency. The reading and listening sections consist of multiple-choice questions, while the writing and speaking sections require you to produce written or spoken responses. The IELTS uses a band score system to evaluate your performance, with scores ranging from 0 to 9. The higher your score, the better your English language proficiency. You can find detailed information on the official website here .
Tip: Make a target for yourself to score 7 and above in each segment as for many universities 6.5 to 7 is the required minimum score.
2. Improving English while practicing for the test.
Improving English while practicing for the test.
While some people may have had thorough English language courses or their medium of instruction had been English, for many across the globe it is not the case. While it is advisable to attempt at mastering the language to attain fluency, what if the time with you is short? Many students do not have the privilege of time. Some may have to work part-time along with studies and may have to tend towards family responsibilities alongside academics. In this case, a pro tip is to start learning the language by practicing the format of the exam. In this way, you not only familiarize yourself with the test, you eventually gain a good grasp of the language alongside being well prepared for subsequent English language exams and interviews.
Here's a sample way you can prepare.
A. Reading Module:
Read as much as you can. Start with reading materials that are suitable for your level of English. It can include children's books, newspapers, blogs, short stories, etc. Reading is a great way to improve your vocabulary and comprehension skills. Gradually work your way up to more complex texts like novels and academic articles. Pay attention to the structure and style of the text, and make note of any unfamiliar words or phrases. This will help in building up your vocabulary. Practice reading under timed conditions to simulate the IELTS exam. Focus on improving your comprehension, vocabulary, and reading speed. When you read a text, try answering questions about the text. You can do so by making it a point to be able to:
- summarise the text in your words.
- counter the arguments in the text from your perspective.
- state key themes in the text.
- suggest alternate titles for the text.
- find narratives that support the arguments in the title.
- find synonyms and antonyms of important words and words you learned new.
Tip: Set small achievable regular goals for yourself like 10 words a day max. You can use flashcards to add fun elements to learning.
B. Writing Module:
Writing is a critical component of the IELTS exam, so it's important to practice regularly. Start with practicing basic sentence structure, grammar, and vocabulary. Work on developing your ability to write clear and concise paragraphs and essays. Practice organizing your writing using appropriate transitions and connecting words, and using examples and evidence to support your ideas.
Tip: Focus on developing your ability to write for different purposes and audiences, such as essays, letters, and reports. Use online tools like Grammarly or Hemingway to check your grammar and sentence structure, and ask for feedback from a language tutor or language exchange partner.
C. Listening Module:
As you may know - the English language has several variations regarding pronunciations and accents. There are variations like British English, American English, Australian English, and so on. It is imperative that you gradually train your ears to these differences and be able to understand any type effortlessly. Practice identifying and understanding different accents and dialects. Listen to English-language podcasts, watch English-language movies, news, and TV shows, or simply tune into YouTube and you will have access to various speakers worldwide. If possible, practice with a language partner or tutor.
Focus on improving your ability to listen for key information and details, and to understand the main ideas and purpose of the speaker. Tip: Jot down key points in the narrative presented and see how much information can you note within a particular time. This will prepare you for timed listening exercises.
D. Speaking Module:
Practice speaking English with a tutor or language exchange partner or someone in your vicinity. You can find people to practice speaking skills either in your school, language learning class, or even online. If no one at all, you can practice narrating to yourself your daily life. Also, you can choose different topics and speak impromptu about them. Practice speaking about a range of topics, such as personal experiences, current events, and academic topics. Focus on improving your pronunciation, intonation, and fluency. Work on developing your ability to organize your ideas, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and respond to questions effectively.
E. Do not ignore the basics:
While these tips may help you fast forward your preparation, you shouldn't bypass the efforts to strengthen your basics, most importantly - the Grammar. Don't panic. English Grammar isn't as difficult when compared to many other languages. You can have a firm grip on Grammar through textbooks, online resources, or language learning apps like Duolingo or Babbel. An early focus on building a strong foundation in grammar and vocabulary will be essential for success in the IELTS exam.
F. Test-Taking Strategies:
Practice tests are an essential part of preparing for the IELTS exam. Use official IELTS practice tests or online resources like IELTS Liz or Magoosh to simulate test conditions and identify areas where you need to improve. Taking IELTS practice tests under timed conditions to get used to the format of the exam. Develop strategies for each module of the exam, such as skimming and scanning for the reading module, note-taking for the listening module, and using appropriate linking words and phrases for the writing module. Learn to manage your time effectively during the exam to ensure that you have enough time to complete each module.
Remember to set achievable goals for each module of the exam, and track your progress regularly. Seek feedback from a tutor or language exchange partner, and make adjustments to your learning plan as needed. With consistent effort and dedication, you can master the English language and succeed on the IELTS exam.
3. Practice Practice and Practice consistently.
Eventually, as your date for the test approaches nearer, the more tests you practice, the better. Just in case you have no one at all to grade you, pat your back yourself. That is - grade yourself. While there are several paid options available, before taking them the best way is to practice free tests. You can find many such tests online. Tip: Create a study plan that works for you and stick to it. Determine how much time you can dedicate to studying and practicing each day and week, and break down your practice sessions into manageable tasks.
4. Do not forget yourself.
While we put in a lot of hard work to achieve our goals, we may risk being workaholics in that pursuit. However, it is a wise idea to not stress yourself to the point that you arrive at the test center completely exhausted and despite the best preparations, you aren't able to give your best shot. Get plenty of rest, eat a healthy diet, and exercise regularly. Manage your stress and anxiety by practicing relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or meditation. And don't forget to take breaks and engage in activities that you enjoy, such as reading a book, listening to music, or going for a walk. By taking care of yourself, you'll be better prepared to handle the demands of the IELTS exam.
And this is where Tea comes into the picture.
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| Photo by Svitlana on Unsplash |
One surprising strategy that you may not have considered is incorporating tea into your study routine. While it may seem like a small detail, research suggests that tea can have a significant impact on your cognitive function and your ability to learn and retain information.
So, how can you use tea to prepare for the IELTS exam? Here are some tips and strategies to get you started:
- Choose the Right Type of Tea
Not all teas are created equal, and some types may be more beneficial for studying than others. For example, green tea is known for its high levels of antioxidants and its ability to improve focus and mental clarity. Additionally, black tea has been shown to enhance memory and cognitive function. Try experimenting with different types of tea to find the one that works best for you.
- Create a Tea Routine
Incorporating tea into your study routine can help you establish a sense of structure and consistency. Try to make a habit of brewing a cup of tea before you begin your study session, and enjoy it as you review your materials. This can help you relax, focus, and get into the right mindset for learning.
- Take Tea Breaks
Studying for long periods without taking breaks can lead to burnout and fatigue. To avoid this, take regular breaks throughout your study session, and use these breaks to enjoy a cup of tea. This can help you recharge your energy levels and stay focused and alert.
- Use Tea to Manage Stress and Anxiety
Stress and anxiety can be major barriers to success on the IELTS exam. However, tea has been shown to have a calming effect on the mind and body, helping to reduce stress levels and promote relaxation. You may try drinking a cup of chamomile tea before bed to help you unwind and get a good night's sleep before your exam.
While this tip of tea is just a mere suggestion and definitely not a compulsion for preparing for the IELTS, why not give it a try!
I hope you get started with your IELTS preparation while we get started brewing more fresh content for you. See you in our next, till then take care, Stay safe!
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