When you do your speaking test, it is important that you get the speaking tone correct. In this lesson we’ll look at how linking phrases can affect the tone. You are basically having a conversation with someone, so you want to sound natural. Some candidates think they have to sound very formal and academic. You obviously do need some good…
► Sometimes less is more! This article will focus on giving advice and exercises to help you use cohesive devices correctly. In the IELTS exam, to reach a band 7 or above you need to be able to use a range of cohesive devices accurately. Linking words are a great way to join your ideas together…
In Part 2 of the speaking test, you need to speak for between 1 minute 40 seconds and 2 minutes. If you manage to get to 1 minute 40 seconds and stop, the examiner can continue the test and move onto Part 3. This is a new change in the speaking test that started this…
Dear Sir, I have a meeting regarding a home loan fixed with you for 24th April 2011. Unfortunately, I shall not be able to make it on that day. I apologise for the inconvenience caused because of this. My elderly aunt and uncle are arriving from Canada for one week which happens to be the…
There are split opinions regarding player-earned income in developed nations. some believe doctors, engineers and teachers are underpaid whereas athletes represent the nation in front of other countries and earn more. However, both have their own pros and cons. Therefore before commenting on my strong opinion, both judgments would discuss in subsequent paragraphs. Examining the…
One of the happiest childhood events I vividly remember is the celebration of my tenth birthday. Even though more than a decade has passed, the memories of that day are still fresh in my mind because it was the first time I truly felt surrounded by love, friendship, and excitement. The celebration took place at…
You had applied to City College recently. Now the college has written back saying the course you applied for is full and they have even suggested an alternative course. Write back to them stating -why you chose the first course, -your views on the suggested second course -and your plan of action. Dear Sir, I…
Sample Band 7: It is believed by some that climate change is detrimental for companies, whereas others believe that climate change offers many business opportunities and so is good for companies. In this essay, I will discuss both perspectives, but I agree with the former side. On the one hand, those who believe climate change…
One thing I always tell my IELTS students is that, during the test, they must set aside at least 5 minutes of planning time in Writing Task 2. If you don’t plan, you’re likely to end up with a very disorganised essay which is littered with repetitions and doesn’t clearly respond to the task. But…