How I Scored an 8.5 in IELTS Speaking: My Journey to Personal Achievement
As a non-native English speaker, scoring an 8.5 in the IELTS Speaking Test was a daunting goal that I had set for myself. However, with consistent effort and a proven strategy, I managed to achieve my target score in just three months. In this article, I’ll be sharing my experience and insights on how I accomplished this feat.
Setting SMART Goals
The first step towards achieving any goal is setting a SMART (Specific, Measurable, Achievable, Relevant, Time-bound) goal. For me, this meant identifying the target score that I needed to achieve, the test date, and the daily practice schedule that I would need to follow. I spent a considerable amount of time researching the IELTS Speaking Test format, the marking criteria, and test-taking tips to ensure that my goals were realistic.
Identifying My Weaknesses
To improve my speaking skills, I needed to identify my weaknesses. I recorded and analyzed my practice sessions and evaluated my performance based on the IELTS Speaking Test marking criteria. I found that I had difficulty organizing my thoughts coherently, using advanced vocabulary, and maintaining fluent speech. I then developed a plan to address these issues and improve my performance.
Consistent Practice and Feedback
Consistent practice is crucial for success in the IELTS Speaking Test. I devoted at least an hour every day to practicing speaking tasks, recording my responses, and analyzing my performance. I also sought feedback from my language teacher and peers, incorporating their suggestions into my practice sessions. With each practice session, I could see a noticeable improvement in my performance.
Developing a Strategy
In addition to consistent practice, I developed a strategy that allowed me to maximize my score. For instance, I structured my responses using the “Introduction-Body-Conclusion” framework, used linking words to connect my ideas, and used advanced vocabulary and expressions to showcase my language proficiency. I also practiced using different pronunciations and intonations to add variety to my speech.
Exam Day Preparation
To ensure that I was adequately prepared for the exam day, I took several steps. Firstly, I familiarized myself with the test center location and the test format. Secondly, I practiced speaking tasks under timed conditions to simulate the actual test environment. Finally, I got adequate rest and ensured that I was well-fed and hydrated on exam day.
Conclusion
Achieving a high score in the IELTS Speaking Test requires a combination of consistent effort, proper planning, and a proven strategy. By setting SMART goals, identifying weaknesses, consistent practice, developing a strategy, and adequate preparation, I was able to achieve an 8.5 in just three months. I hope that my experience and insights will prove useful to IELTS test takers who aspire to achieve similar goals.
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Speech tips:
Please note that any statements involving politics will not be approved.