IELTS

ielts

About IELTS?

Origin of IELTS

IELTS was first introduced in 1989 by the University of the Cambridge’s, ESOL Division (English for Speakers of Other Languages) in U.K. to help universities and colleges to test student’s English skills from Non-English speaking countries to be able to succed in the intended course of study.
The abbreviation or the full form of IELTS is International English Language Testing System, it is typically a British exam that tests the English  language level of the candidates. University of Cambridge’s ESOL Division (English for Speakers of Other Languages) develops the exam paper which takes about 3 years for one exam paper to get done up and since British Council and IDP Australia have global presence therefore the exam is conducted by them in partnership.

IELTS and The Wesley Group

The Wesley Group is an authorised company by University of Cambridge’s ESOL Division (English for Speakers of Other Languages), British Council, British High Comission and IDP IELTS Australia and Australian High Commission and so are all its center worlwide. The candidates can take exam test dates from all our centers at no extra cost.
In addition, The Wesley Group is also an authorised training center for IELTS, TOEFL. The training, curriculam and material for IELTS and TOEFL is developed in partnership with our global training partner The Queens College, UK for training or coaching candidates worldwide.

Who needs to appear for IELTS?

Candidates desiring to go for WORK, IMMIGRATION abroad besides STUDIES to English speaking countries including USA are required to appear for the IELTS exam to demonstrate they have sufficient English standard for the purpose. IELTS is also substitued for TOEFL worldwide and is fully acceptable as it is a mighty University of Cambridge’s exam.

Why is IELTS required?

IELTS exam tests the candidate’s English Language level of the students from Non-English speaking countries to ensure that they have sufficient English langauge capabitity to Speak, Listen, Write and Read (understand written content) to conduct the purpose they are planing to go abroad for in terms of studies, work or immigration.

4 Parts of IELTS Test (Sections)

Like any language has 4 main parts to understand therefore candiates are tested of the English language level on the following parts
1. Listenining
2. Speaking
3. Writing and
4. Reading (Understanding the written information).
IELTS terms the above stated parts as SECTIONS therefore we say IELTS is tested on four sections listening, speaking, reading and writing.

IELTS test has two types (modules)

1. Academic type for Students planing to go for studies or for Nurses and
2. General Training type for candidates planing for working or immigrating abroad.
Candidates must confirm before taking test dates of what IELTS exam type or modules is required.

Who needs IELTS Academic Module?

The Academic IELTS test is for the students who plan to study in universities (undergraduate or postgraduate courses), and will test the student’s ability both to understand and to use complex academic language.

Who needs IELTS General Module

The General Training IELTS test is required by other institutions, such as colleges and high schools, for courses that require less complex language skills, and is also as a general test of English proficiency e.g. for immigration purposes in Australia, Canada and New Zealand.

IELTS Scoring System (Band System).

1. Scores are given out of 9 marks which is called by IELTS as Bands and not marks.
2. Each part or modules like listening, speaking, has scores out of 9 marks or bands.
3. Marks or bands are given as .5, 5, 6, 6.5 in point form aswell.
4. Overall marks or band score is taken out of all four parts or modules.

IELTS Band Scores: The IELTS 9-band scale

Each band corresponds to a level of English competence. All parts of the test and the Overall Band Score can be reported in whole and half bands, eg 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0
Band 0: Did not attempt the test: No assessable information provided .
Band 1: Non-user: essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words .
Band 2: Intermittent user: no real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English
Band 3: Extremely limited user: conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.
Band 4: Limited user: basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.
Band 5: Modest user: has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field
Band 6: Competent user: has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations
Band 7: Good user: has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.
Band 8: Very good user: has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well
Band 9: Expert user: has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.

IELTS Exam Format

The IELTS test (both Academic and General Training modules) is divided into four parts: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The listening and speaking tests are exactly the same for the Academic and General Training modules but the reading and writing tests are different.
Listening Format (Same for Academic and General Modules)
The oral test will last approximately for 30 minutes. There will be no break time during the test. In Listening part an audio tape is played for 30 mins and 10 minutes are given to transfer your answers to the answer sheet. Listening, Reading and Writing must be completed in one day. Depending on your test centre, the Speaking test may be offered on the same day or up to a week before or after the other parts. See below for a diagram of the test format.
Academic and General Writing format.
Academic writing includes Graph reading and writing in Task 1 and an Essay in Task 2. Task 1 requires you to write  a summary of at least 150 words in response to a particular graph. Graph can be of any kinds i.e a bar/ column, line graph, pie graph. It is recommended that you spend no more than 20 mins on this Task. Task 2 requires you to write at least 250 words. Here, you will be presented with a topic and will be tested on your ability to respond by giving and justifying your opinion and conclusions.
General writing includes a Letter in Task 1 and an Essay in Task 2. Duration for both the modules are same i.e (60 mins). Same as in Academic, Task 1(General) requires you to write at least 150 words and Task 2 requires you to write at least 250 words which is an essay. .
Academic and General Reading format.
As in all the different parts of IELTS, the Academic Reading Test gets progressively harder through the paper. There are 3 Passages and there is a total of 40 questions to answer. At least one text will contain a logical argument. One text may contain non-verbal materials such as a diagram, graph or illustration.
General Reading passages are comparatively easier than the Academic ones. There are 3 passages in both General as well as in Academic. The passages may be sourced from books, journals, magazines and newspapers, with a total length of 2000-2800 words.
Academic and General Speaking format.
Both Academic and General Training modules try and reflect real life situations to test whether a candidate would survive in English speaking social and academic environments. For example, Part 1 of the speaking test is the introduction which is for 1 minute and Interview for 3-4 mins. Part 2 section of the speaking asks candidates to talk, after 1 minute’s preparation, on a given General topic. This would test General Training candidates to see if they could give a “work related presentation” to fellow work colleagues and would test Academic candidates if they can give a “university style presentation” to fellow students. It tests whether candidates have the English language capability to perform these tasks under some kind of pressure. Part 3 is the discussion relating to the topic introduced in Part 2 which will be of 4-5 mins.
Validity of the exam score
The IELTS exam result is valid for two years.
System of taking test dates?
Candidates can take IELTS
IELTS has been developed by the British Council in partnership with IELTS Australia and Cambridge ESOL on the strength of forty years of research. Taking an IELTS test will help to open doors to international education and employment all over the globe. Moreover, candidates with high scores are particularly sought after by universities and employers in English-speaking countries.
The IELTS test has two modules:
• Academic test (or module) and
• General Training test (or module).
The module that one takes depends on the reason that  one’s taking it for. The Academic Module is for those people who are trying to gain entry onto undergraduate or postgraduate education courses or for professional reasons. The General Training Module is for those who wish to join some kinds of vocational or training courses, secondary schools or for immigration purposes. General training module is comparatively easier than the Academic one.

INTERNET AND PAPER BASED TEST

IELTS (Academic Module) TOEFL
Typical usage: Entry to UK/Canadian/Australian/New Zealand universities  and US. Entry to US/Canadian universities (also accepted by many universities in the UK and other English-speaking countries)
Type of English: British English (academic situations) which is easily understood. American English (academic situations)
Skills tested: Listening, reading, writing, speaking (face-to-face oral test) Listening, reading, writing. TSE speaking test at extra cost (not face-to-face)
Cost (2010): Exam fee: about Rs 7200 (in India) Exam fee: 185 US dollars for the internet-based test (about £110)
Test type: Paper-based or computer-based (CB IELTS), depending on the country. Main UK format is currently paper-based Internet-based (TOEFL iBT), computer-based (TOEFL CBT) or paper-based (TOEFL PBT), depending on the country. Main UK format is currently internet-based
Question style: A variety of styles (only a few questions are multiple-choice) Mostly multiple-choice (except writing)
Test date frequency: At least monthly (depending on local demand) Very frequent

TEST FORMAT

You must complete four modules: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking to obtain an IELTS test report form.You are tested in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You have a choice between Academic and General Training in the Reading and Writing modules.

About IELTS?Origin of IELTSIELTS was first introduced in 1989 by the University of the Cambridge’s, ESOL Division (English for Speakers of Other Languages) in U.K. to help universities and colleges to test student’s English skills from Non-English speaking countries to be able to succed in the intended course of study.The abbreviation or the full form of IELTS is International English Language Testing System, it is typically a British exam that tests the English  language level of the candidates. University of Cambridge’s ESOL Division (English for Speakers of Other Languages) develops the exam paper which takes about 3 years for one exam paper to get done up and since British Council and IDP Australia have global presence therefore the exam is conducted by them in partnership.IELTS and The Wesley GroupThe Wesley Group is an authorised company by University of Cambridge’s ESOL Division (English for Speakers of Other Languages), British Council, British High Comission and IDP IELTS Australia and Australian High Commission and so are all its center worlwide. The candidates can take exam test dates from all our centers at no extra cost.In addition, The Wesley Group is also an authorised training center for IELTS, TOEFL. The training, curriculam and material for IELTS and TOEFL is developed in partnership with our global training partner The Queens College, UK for training or coaching candidates worldwide.Who needs to appear for IELTS?Candidates desiring to go for WORK, IMMIGRATION abroad besides STUDIES to English speaking countries including USA are required to appear for the IELTS exam to demonstrate they have sufficient English standard for the purpose. IELTS is also substitued for TOEFL worldwide and is fully acceptable as it is a mighty University of Cambridge’s exam.Why is IELTS required?IELTS exam tests the candidate’s English Language level of the students from Non-English speaking countries to ensure that they have sufficient English langauge capabitity to Speak, Listen, Write and Read (understand written content) to conduct the purpose they are planing to go abroad for in terms of studies, work or immigration.4 Parts of IELTS Test (Sections)Like any language has 4 main parts to understand therefore candiates are tested of the English language level on the following parts1. Listenining2. Speaking3. Writing and4. Reading (Understanding the written information).IELTS terms the above stated parts as SECTIONS therefore we say IELTS is tested on four sections listening, speaking, reading and writing.IELTS test has two types (modules)1. Academic type for Students planing to go for studies or for Nurses and2. General Training type for candidates planing for working or immigrating abroad.Candidates must confirm before taking test dates of what IELTS exam type or modules is required.Who needs IELTS Academic Module?The Academic IELTS test is for the students who plan to study in universities (undergraduate or postgraduate courses), and will test the student’s ability both to understand and to use complex academic language.Who needs IELTS General ModuleThe General Training IELTS test is required by other institutions, such as colleges and high schools, for courses that require less complex language skills, and is also as a general test of English proficiency e.g. for immigration purposes in Australia, Canada and New Zealand.IELTS Scoring System (Band System).1. Scores are given out of 9 marks which is called by IELTS as Bands and not marks.2. Each part or modules like listening, speaking, has scores out of 9 marks or bands.3. Marks or bands are given as .5, 5, 6, 6.5 in point form aswell.4. Overall marks or band score is taken out of all four parts or modules.

IELTS Band Scores: The IELTS 9-band scale

Each band corresponds to a level of English competence. All parts of the test and the Overall Band Score can be reported in whole and half bands, eg 6.5, 7.0, 7.5, 8.0.Band 0: Did not attempt the test: No assessable information provided .

Band 1: Non-user: essentially has no ability to use the language beyond possibly a few isolated words.

Band 2: Intermittent user: no real communication is possible except for the most basic information using isolated words or short formulae in familiar situations and to meet immediate needs. Has great difficulty understanding spoken and written English.

Band 3: Extremely limited user: conveys and understands only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.

Band 4: Limited user: basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression. Is not able to use complex language.

Band 5: Modest user: has partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, though is likely to make many mistakes. Should be able to handle basic communication in own field.

Band 6: Competent user: has generally effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings. Can use and understand fairly complex language, particularly in familiar situations.

Band 7: Good user: has operational command of the language, though with occasional inaccuracies, inappropriacies and misunderstandings in some situations. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.

Band 8: Very good user: has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Misunderstandings may occur in unfamiliar situations. Handles complex detailed argumentation well.

Band 9: Expert user: has fully operational command of the language: appropriate, accurate and fluent with complete understanding.

IELTS Exam FormatThe IELTS test (both Academic and General Training modules) is divided into four parts: reading, writing, listening and speaking. The listening and speaking tests are exactly the same for the Academic and General Training modules but the reading and writing tests are different.

Listening Format (Same for Academic and General Modules). The oral test will last approximately for 30 minutes. There will be no break time during the test. In Listening part an audio tape is played for 30 mins and 10 minutes are given to transfer your answers to the answer sheet. Listening, Reading and Writing must be completed in one day. Depending on your test centre, the Speaking test may be offered on the same day or up to a week before or after the other parts. See below for a diagram of the test format.Academic and General Writing format.Academic writing includes Graph reading and writing in Task 1 and an Essay in Task 2.

Task 1 requires you to write  a summary of at least 150 words in response to a particular graph. Graph can be of any kinds i.e a bar/ column, line graph, pie graph. It is recommended that you spend no more than 20 mins on this Task. Task 2 requires you to write at least 250 words. Here, you will be presented with a topic and will be tested on your ability to respond by giving and justifying your opinion and conclusions.General writing includes a Letter in Task 1 and an Essay in Task 2. Duration for both the modules are same i.e (60 mins). Same as in Academic, Task 1(General) requires you to write at least 150 words and Task 2 requires you to write at least 250 words which is an essay. .Academic and General Reading format.As in all the different parts of IELTS, the Academic Reading Test gets progressively harder through the paper. There are 3 Passages and there is a total of 40 questions to answer. At least one text will contain a logical argument. One text may contain non-verbal materials such as a diagram, graph or illustration.General Reading passages are comparatively easier than the Academic ones. There are 3 passages in both General as well as in Academic. The passages may be sourced from books, journals, magazines and newspapers, with a total length of 2000-2800 words. Academic and General Speaking format. Both Academic and General Training modules try and reflect real life situations to test whether a candidate would survive in English speaking social and academic environments. For example, Part 1 of the speaking test is the introduction which is for 1 minute and Interview for 3-4 mins. Part 2 section of the speaking asks candidates to talk, after 1 minute’s preparation, on a given General topic. This would test General Training candidates to see if they could give a “work related presentation” to fellow work colleagues and would test Academic candidates if they can give a “university style presentation” to fellow students. It tests whether candidates have the English language capability to perform these tasks under some kind of pressure. Part 3 is the discussion relating to the topic introduced in Part 2 which will be of 4-5 mins.Validity of the exam scoreThe IELTS exam result is valid for two years.System of taking test dates?Candidates can take IELTS IELTS has been developed by the British Council in partnership with IELTS Australia and Cambridge ESOL on the strength of forty years of research. Taking an IELTS test will help to open doors to international education and employment all over the globe. Moreover, candidates with high scores are particularly sought after by universities and employers in English-speaking countries. The IELTS test has two modules:  • Academic test (or module) and • General Training test (or module).  The module that one takes depends on the reason that  one’s taking it for.

The Academic Module is for those people who are trying to gain entry onto undergraduate or postgraduate education courses or for professional reasons.

The General Training Module is for those who wish to join some kinds of vocational or training courses, secondary schools or for immigration purposes. General training module is comparatively easier than the Academic one.
INTERNET AND PAPER BASED TEST.    IELTS (Academic Module) TOEFLTypical usage: Entry to UK/Canadian/Australian/New Zealand universities  and US. Entry to US/Canadian universities (also accepted by many universities in the UK and other English-speaking countries)Type of English: British English (academic situations) which is easily understood. American English (academic situations)Skills tested: Listening, reading, writing, speaking (face-to-face oral test) Listening, reading, writing. TSE speaking test at extra cost (not face-to-face)Cost (2010): Exam fee: about Rs 7200 (in India) Exam fee: 185 US dollars for the internet-based test (about £110)Test type: Paper-based or computer-based (CB IELTS), depending on the country. Main UK format is currently paper-based Internet-based (TOEFL iBT), computer-based (TOEFL CBT) or paper-based (TOEFL PBT), depending on the country. Main UK format is currently internet-basedQuestion style: A variety of styles (only a few questions are multiple-choice) Mostly multiple-choice (except writing)Test date frequency: At least monthly (depending on local demand) Very frequent
TEST FORMATYou must complete four modules: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking to obtain an IELTS test report form.You are tested in Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You have a choice between Academic and General Training in the Reading and Writing modules.