Im taking the ielks test in 3 weeks and wondered if anyone has got any tips I am doing practice tests on line but it's much harder than I expected. What experiences has anyone had

Hi Jonandonna,

Other than taking practice tests, I can't offer much. There's been mention of some youtube videos in the IELTS writing thread (http://britishexpats.com/forum/showthread.php?t=784913) but not sure how helpful they are.

Are you a native english speaker?

Yes born and bred in england ironic that you need to take a test to see if you can speak it !

Well you should make it through the speaking part okay

Have a look at the sample writing pieces of the band you want and practice writing to that style helps, and then just practice. I probably did worse in the practice tests than I did in the real one, but did end up doing the test twice as I needed 8's and only got 7.5 on the listening first time (I did the academic after a night shift). I did the academic test both times, so not sure how that varies with the general, but just try not to panic, if at first you don't succeed you can always do it again when you know what to expect.

Good luck

Just realised I have been putting ielks instead of ielts ......making a good start already! .

The IELTS is not just speaking. It also tests your ability to listen, read and write English. That includes correct spelling and grammar.

Start by using all those things when you write in every day life (i.e. your posts) and it gets easier. Your errors are marked in red above

you need ielts for the points? is it academic or general?

hey jonandonna, i am also practicing. i've my test on 9th march. i've got some good material plus if you can come online on skype we can discuss. luqmans65 is my skype ID

You don't need to do IELTS if you have a British passport, that is sufficient to prove your English.

However if you need the 20 points, then another option is to take a phd.

I need to take the test because I am 40 years old, so I need to get an extra 10 points.

come over on skype

On site at the moment. I will try to contact you sunday as I'm going to "downunderlive" in london tomorrow. Thanks for offer, my test is on the day too

welcome. luqmans65 is my ID. add me and tell me the time when you want to talk.

Hey Jonandonna,

Have a look at the attachments, hope these would help ya. make sure that practice is the key for getting 7 for all.

cheers,
PB

IELTS Target band 7.pdf

IELTS 150 Essays(Writing) from Past Papers with answers[anirudhshumi].pdf

Writing Practice - Informal and Formal Letters.pdf

IeltsSureSuccess.pdf

Ace the IELTS.pdf

Hi Jonandonna - how are you making up the balance of your points as I needed 8.0's and 20 points as I'm also over 40?