Chapter 21: Making the Grade: Handling Exam Classes 301
The listening and speaking elements of the exam are the same in both versions.
However, the reading and writing elements are somewhat more difficult in
the Academic version which reflects the nature of work and study the exam
candidates are in line for. A CB (computer based) Academic version is also
offered in some places but this doesn’t include the speaking exam.There is always a recording device in the room but you should advise students
not to worry about this because this just supports the examiner’s work.So the four exam papers are:✓ Listening: This is a 30 minute test in four sections. There is a conversation
between two speakers, followed by a monologue. The third section
involves a group conversation and finally there is a lecture or talk. The
listening texts are only played once each. The questions take the form
of multiple choice, short answers in three words or similar, completing
sentences, notes, diagrams and flow charts.
✓ Reading: This test lasts 1 hour and the question types are similar to
those done in the Listening text. However, they also include choosing
from a list of headings to identify paragraphs, stating whether a sentence
is true, false or has an answer not given in the text, classifying information,
and matching lists or phrases.
✓ Writing: This test lasts 1 hour during which you have to complete two
different tasks. You lose marks if you don’t finish them.
- Task 1 consists of a chart, graph or table and the candidate has to
write about the information presented. Alternatively you have to
describe a process from a diagram, showing how something works.
The minimum word limit is 150 words. - Task 2 carries more marks and requires you to consider and discuss
aspects of a particular topic in a formal way. The minimum word
limit is 250 words and the question features international themes.
In IELTS writing, if you restate the question in the same words, those
words are deducted from your word count. Hyphenated words and
numbers are counted as one word and you shouldn’t use contractions.
✓ Speaking: This test lasts no more than 15 minutes and takes the form of
an interview with one examiner. First there is a general discussion about
everyday topics. After that the examiner gives the student a topic, a
pencil and some paper. The candidate has a minute to make notes about
the topic and then gives a two minute presentation.The Speaking test does not happen on the same day as the other exam papers.
It should take place within 7 days of the others though. Candidates have to
do Listening, Reading and Writing papers one after the other, on the same day
with no break.