Monday, July 29, 2013
Filipinos are good English speakers. With the use of the English language as one of the means of instruction in schools and in offices, the exposure of Filipinos in using the English language is wide and a bit more comprehensive. Among other known English proficiency examination, IELTS is known for its challenging speaking examination. Individuals who have already taken the IELTS speaking section have said that it is pretty difficult to handle yourself in front of a native speaker during the interview. Hence, people are asking questions about the IELTS speaking exam. Let us try to answer some of these and enlighten soon-to-be candidates of the IELTS test.
• How many tasks are there in the speaking section?
There are three different sections in the speaking section of the IELTS. The first section serves as an introduction about the candidate’s background. Certain personal questions related to work or school and even family are asked to the candidate. The second task is a short discussion done by the candidate. He or she is given a cue card with the task and guide questions. Finally, the last task is more of a interactive discussion between the interviewer and the candidate where topics are more serious and deep.
• Is the interviewer always a native speaker?
Interviewers in the IELTS speaking section are most of the time native speakers; however, there are times that they are Filipinos who are very good at the English language. They have also undergone training on how to conduct interviews for the IELTS. Most of the time, candidates get intimidated with native-English speakers; however, this is a good practice for people who will be working abroad or studying abroad where they will only be communicating in English with other people.
• How many tasks are there in the speaking section?
There are three different sections in the speaking section of the IELTS. The first section serves as an introduction about the candidate’s background. Certain personal questions related to work or school and even family are asked to the candidate. The second task is a short discussion done by the candidate. He or she is given a cue card with the task and guide questions. Finally, the last task is more of a interactive discussion between the interviewer and the candidate where topics are more serious and deep.
• Is the interviewer always a native speaker?
Interviewers in the IELTS speaking section are most of the time native speakers; however, there are times that they are Filipinos who are very good at the English language. They have also undergone training on how to conduct interviews for the IELTS. Most of the time, candidates get intimidated with native-English speakers; however, this is a good practice for people who will be working abroad or studying abroad where they will only be communicating in English with other people.
• What do I have to wear during the exam?
It is suggested that candidates for the exam wear something formal. Be presentable to the interviewer. Avoid wearing tees, rugged pants and running shoes. For men, it would be nice to come to the interview with a freshly pressed shirt, khakis, and a neatly combed hair. For the ladies, a nice dress, a formal top and a decent dress will perfect the look during the interview.
• What time do I have to be in the center?
Tardiness is a sign of being unprofessional. Be in the test center for about a couple of hours before the examination. It is best for candidates to be familiar with the place and arrive early to fill out some documents needed before the speaking examination. Being early gives the candidates more time to relax and be ready for the examination.
Some candidates are not confident with their speaking skills; hence, they enroll in IELTS review centers where they can have trainings and mock interviews to prepare them for the real test. Speaking coaches are experienced and give motivations to their trainees to speak better in responding to speaking questions.
Tardiness is a sign of being unprofessional. Be in the test center for about a couple of hours before the examination. It is best for candidates to be familiar with the place and arrive early to fill out some documents needed before the speaking examination. Being early gives the candidates more time to relax and be ready for the examination.
Some candidates are not confident with their speaking skills; hence, they enroll in IELTS review centers where they can have trainings and mock interviews to prepare them for the real test. Speaking coaches are experienced and give motivations to their trainees to speak better in responding to speaking questions.
