Lecture Notes: Improving IELTS Speaking Score

Introduction

• Priyanka failed the IELTS speaking test four times, was stuck at band 6.
• Improved to band 8 in two weeks using four simple tips.

Identifying Initial Issues

• Fluency: Priyanka had many 'ums' and 'ahs' similar to Elon Musk when he speaks publicly.
• Complex Ideas: She tried to use complex ideas in her answers, leading to a freeze and blanks.

Key Tips for Improvement

1. Improving Fluency

• Avoid aiming for complex ideas; focus on simple, clear thoughts.
• Consider your brain like a computer with too many open tabs, causing it to slow down.
• Simple ideas can increase your score significantly.

2. Grammar Accuracy

• Initial answers were complex but laden with grammar errors.
• Simplification led to error-free sentences.
• Key Insight: Majority of sentences should have zero errors to score band 7 or above.
• Examiner tests grammar range naturally through varied questions.

3. Vocabulary Use

• Misconception: complex vocabulary leads to higher scores.
• Use vocabulary as 'tools' fitting the context of the question.
• Overly complex vocabulary often results in errors which lower scores.

4. Pronunciation

• Speaking too quickly can lead to misunderstandings by the examiner, resulting in lower scores.
• Relaxing and slowing down speech improves pronunciation.

Results

• Priyanka adopted new strategies, simplified her approach.
• Achieved band 8, moved to Canada, improved her career and life.

Conclusion

• Real, genuine use of your current English level is more effective than trying to overly impress.
• Importance of being relaxed and natural during the test.
• Misleading online tips can be counterproductive.
• Additional resources provided to analyze common tips and their effectiveness.