IELTS Speaking Test

​IELTS Speaking Test

​Test Format

This test is an oral interview with an evaluator and it will take from 11 to 14 minutes and it is comprised of three tasks. Each task will be recorded. The aim is to assess your use of spoken English in three different interaction patterns.​

​Task 1: Introduction and interview

The examiner introduces themself and checks the test takers' identity. They then ask the test takers general questions on some familiar topics such as home, family, work, studies, and interests. To ensure consistency, questions are taken from a script. This part lasts around 4–5 minutes.

This task focuses on the ability to communicate opinions and information on everyday topics and common experiences or situations by answering a range of questions. The number of questions may vary.

​

​Task 2: Long turn

​The examiner will give you a task card which asks you to talk about a particular topic, including points to cover in the talk and you will have to explain one aspect of the topic. You are given 1 minute to prepare the talk, and are given a pencil and paper to make notes. You will have to talk for 1 to 2 minutes, then you will be asked one or two questions on the same topic. This task lasts around 3–4 minutes, including preparation time.

This task focuses on the ability to speak at length on a given topic (without further prompts from the examiner), using appropriate language and organising ideas coherently. It is likely that you will need to draw on your own experience to complete the long turn.

​Task 3: Discussion

​In the third task, you and the examiner will discuss issues related to the topic in Task 2 in a more general and abstract way and, where appropriate, in greater depth. This task lasts around 4–5 minutes.

This task focuses on the ability to express and justify opinions and to analyse, discuss and speculate about issues. The number of questions may vary.

​

The range of vocabulary used and the precision with which meanings and attitudes can be expressed.

Lexical resource

The ability to talk with normal levels of continuity, rate and effort and to link ideas and language together to form coherent, connected speech.

Fluency and coherence

​Grading Criteria

The ability to produce comprehensible speech to fulfil the Speaking test requirements.

​Pronunciation

The range and the accurate and appropriate use of the test takers' grammatical resource.

​Grammatical range and accuracy

​Grading Criteria