Study Notes

IELTS PREPARATION- STUDY ENGLISH
STUDY IELTS
with IELTS
. PREPARATION
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STUDY NOTES
LESSON 1: FORMAL AND

INFORMAL WRITTEN
LANGUAGE
STUDY TIPS
For the Academic Module of IELTS

Writing Task 1 and Task 2, it is
important to use formal English. Be
careful that your writing is
consistent. In other words, different
writing styles should not be mixed.
Always leave some time to check
your writing.
Students writing academic essays

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would be expected to use formal

English, and maintain consistency
and uniformity in their writing. This
means that formal and informal
styles should not be mixed. Formal
language is characterised as being
more objective and impersonal.
Formal, written language is the type of

language that would be used in academic writing,
official reports, documents and other similar genres.
Informal writing, on the other hand, would be
characteristic of the kinds of writing found in
newspapers, magazines, advertising, personal letters,
notes, postcards and so on.
FEATURE FORMAL LANGUAGE INFORMAL LANGUAGE

+) relative pronoun and the The result depended on the cylinder The result depended on the cylinder
position of the preposition in which the liquid was placed. The which (or: that) the liquid was
scientists for whom the funds are placed in. The scientist whom the
being collected proceeded with the funds are being collected for
experiment. proceeded with the experiment.
+) contractions are to be The study did not commence The study didn’t start because of
avoided in formal writing because of the difficulties. the difficulties.
+) impersonal style for The procedures were written by The specialists in the field wrote the
formal language, using specialists in the field. procedures.
passive constructions,
especially when describing
procedures
+) use of abstract nouns in The judge sought clarification of the The judge wanted the differences
formal writing differences. explained.
+) avoid personal pronouns One should consider the options. You should consider the options.
(I, you, we) and use the
impersonal ‘one’ or
constructions with ‘it is’ or It is said that…….. They say that……..
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‘there is/are’
+) using language that is Modal verbs: can, could, should,
tentative may, would
Example:
The government should require

industry to pay for removing its
waste.
Adverbs: probably, possibly,

perhaps
Example:
Although this is an old and probably

ineffective method, there is nothing
on the market that could replace it.
Adjectives: probable, possible
Example:
A possible solution to the problem

requires industry to pay for
removing its waste.
Nouns: possibility, claim, evidence
Example:
The scientists were concerned with

the possibility of the side-effects
from the untested drug.
+) repetition should be Enviromental pollution will be the

avoided in formal style focus of this study. It is a serious
problem facing mankind today.
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Sentence complexity and linking words
+) use a variety of Air pollution is harmful to plants because
simple, compound of the affects of poisonous gases. In
and complex addition, it can damage the ozone layer.
sentences for more
formal writing
+) avoid beginning Linking words expressing Formal Less formal

sentences with
coordinating addition Moreover, furthermore, Also, and, besides
conjunctions ‘and’ in addition to
and ‘but’ (these
conjunctions join opposition Nevertheless, but
sentences not start nonetheless
them)
+) predominance of Result Consequently, so
simple sentences is accordingly
less formal than a Cause and effect Accordingly, therefore, so
variety of simple, thus, consequently
compound and Referring to a subject With reference to, re:
complex sentences regarding
ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

+) The term is written After her brilliant performance in Hamlet, Most of the students who
in full the first time it Jane was excited by the prospect of performed last night were
appears in the writing becoming a student at the National Institute graduates of NIDA
followed by its of Dramatic Art (NIDA).
abbreviation or
acronym in brackets
+) Latin abbreviations The Institute offers programs for all phases The Institute offers many
are written in full of teaching and training of educational training programs, e.g.
personnel. For example, it provides advanced work in counselling,
advanced work in counselling, pastoral care pastoral care and guidance.
and guidance.
VOCABULARY
--- use phrasal or prepositional verbs Examples
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are inappropriate in formal writing Formal choice Phrasal Verbs
Abolish Do away with

Complete Fill in
Conduct Carry out
Consider Weigh up
Discover Find out
Distribute Hand out
Encounter Come across
Invent Make up
Reconsider Think again
Review Go over
---examples of more formal Absence of No
vocabulary usually found in Accurate Right
academic writing Advantageous Useful, helpful
Advised Told
Alternatively Or
Beneficial Useful, helpful
Commence Begin, start
Conceal Hide
Consecutive Following on, next to
Consolidate Combine, join, merge
Deteriorate Get worse
Diminish Lessen
Duration Time
Endeavour Try
Explain Show, tell
Identical Same
ACTIVITY SHEET
Q: Identify whether these sentences are formal, informal or whether the two styles have been mixed
1: The government has indicated that the system would be beneficial to the pensioners.
A: formal
B: informal
C: mixed
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2: Some candidates find speaking to be the most difficult thing they’ve got to do.
A: formal
B: informal
C: mixed
3: As a result of the findings, the scientists commenced research into sudden infant death syndrome
(SIDS).
A: formal
B: informal
C: mixed
4: It was shown that the conclusions didn’t measure up.
A: formal
B: informal
C: mixed
5: The survey from which the results were tabulated indicated the standard of living for these people has
declined significantly.
A: formal
B: informal
C: mixed
Include data as evidence or ANSWERS: 1. A: formal

examples to support your
2. B: informal
description, and make a
comment to show you 3. A: formal
understand the significance of
what you are describing. 4. C: mixed
5. A: formal
Make your descriptions of

data complete. Also use a
variety of language
STUDY
constructions, and make sure
NOTES
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you use prepositions of time.

correctly.
LESSON 2:
DESCRIBING DATA
When describing data, or anything for that matter, it is important to include details and
comments on what is significant, to show that you are aware of which features are critically important
and require comment.
Descriptions are not very useful unless they are detailed. Details need also to be put into
perspective – compared and contrasted with something (a shared standard or reference point), or
located during or over a particular period of time. Making comments demonstrates that the significance
of trends, or of what is being described, is appreciated. It also helps the reader to appreciate the
importance of these trends.
In describing data there are several aspects to consider:
+1) ORGANISATION OF A GOOD DESCRIPTION OF DATA - How to construct a

complete description.
+2) LANGUAGE CHOICES IN DESCRIPTIONS OF DATA – language choice enables

variety.
+3) REGISTER –formal and informal language choices.

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+4) PREPOSITIONS OF TIMES – There are several prepositions (at, in, on, from, for, between,
to, till, until) which are useful when describing data.
① ORGANISATION OF A GOOD DESCRIPTION OF DATA

It is helpful to remember that there are three parts to a good description:
1. STATEMENT: ‘DVD sales increased dramatically’

2. DATA: ‘between 2002 and 2004’, ‘from 2 to 3 million’
3. COMMENT: ‘a rise of 50%’, ‘a significant growth’
-Between 2001 and 2004, DVD sales increased dramatically, from 2 to 3 million. This was a rise
of 50%, quite a significant growth.
The order of these parts is not necessarily fixed or rigid. So we can write:
→ Sales of DVDs showed significant growth, rising from 2 to 3 million between 2001 and 2004
– an increase of 50%.
Another example of a good description:
1. The number of candidates taking IELTS increased again

2. In 2020 from 355,000 to well over 475,000
3. – a rise of 34%
→ The number of candidates taking IELTS increased again in 2003 from 355,000 to well over
475,000 – a rise of 34%.
So, follow these steps to construct a good description:
1. Identify the trend: Laptop production rose

2. Include evidence: from 4 million to 5 million units
3. Include the period: for the first 3 months of 2021
4. Include comment: This is a growth of 25%
② LANGUAGE CHOICES IN DESCRIPTIONS OF DATA

There are always choices in language, and by exercising choices our writing will be more
interesting. In descriptions it is possible to use adjectives and nouns or verbs and adverbs to
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describe trends and significant features.

Look at these examples:
ADJECTIVE + NOUN CONSTRUCTION
From 2001 till 2004, there was a gradual increase in DVD sales in Vietnam, from 2 to 3 million –
a rise of 50%.
VERB + ADVERB CONSTRUCTION
From 2001 till 2004, DVD sales in Vietnam increased gradually from 2 to 3 million – a rise of
50%.
*VOCABULARY CHOICES FOR DESCRIPTIONS OF DATA

ADJECTIVE NOUN VERB ADVERB
Fast The rise to go up (went/gone) Fast
Quick The increase to rise (rose/risen) Quickly
Sudden The growth to increase (-d) Suddenly
Significant The explosion to grow (grew) Significantly
Dramatic The fall to explode (-d) Dramatically
Large The drop to skyrocket (-ed) Sharply
Major The decrease to balloon (-ed) Steeply
Sharp The plummeting to soar (-ed) Slowly
Steep The sinking to go down Slightly

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(went/gone)
Slow Insignificantly
Small to drop (-ped)
Slight to decrease (-d)
insignificant to plummet (-ted)
minor to sink ( sank/sunk)
to nosedive (-d)
③REGISTER – formal and informal language choices

In all languages there are levels of formality. Certain language choices, certain words and
certain structures are more formal than others , and are reserved for more formal situations.
Being rarer and less common formal choices are acquired later. Shorter words and common
verbs are learned first. Longer words are mastered later.
VERBS
Formal
Increase Decrease
Rise Drop
Go up Go down
Informal
Nouns
Formal
Expansion Contraction
Increase Decrease
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rise Drop
Informal
④PREPOSITIONS OF TIMES
There are several prepositions (at, in, on, by, from, for, between, to, till, until), which are useful
when describing data:
At: a particular point in time In: during a period of time On: a day
At the beginning or end of the During a day, week, month, On Monday

day, week, month, season, year, season, year, decade, century,
On the eve of the festival
decade, century, millennium millennium
On the day I was born
On the morning of the weeding

At the beginning of the season In the 19th century
On the anniversary of the battle
At the end of the financial year In summer
On the weekend
At night In the evening
In the morning, afternoon
At New Year
On New Year’s day
Note: In English, we say ‘at night’ but ‘in the evening’
We say ‘at Christmas’ meaning the season of Christmas, but ‘on Christmas Day’ (25 th
December)
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By: to measure the size For: to measure length From: to establish To, till, until: reach,
of a rise or a fall of time when the measure arrive at
starts from
Enrolments fell by 30% To continue for a few From the beginning of The trend
hours, for a whole day, 2021
Continued to/till/until
for three weeks, for
November
months, for the whole
winter
*SAMPLE IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING PART 1:
Task 01: Line Graph
The graphs show changes in the trends of the urban and rural population and by different age
groups from 1950 to 2040.
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Sample Answer:
The data gives demographic information about urban and rural areas as well as three particular
age groups in one country from 1950 to 2000 with predictions to 2040.
Overall, the total urban and rural population witnessed a significant increase between 1950 and
2000 while the proportion of people aged 16-65 years was largest and showed the most dramatic
growth compared to the figures for the other two age groups. These trends are expected to continue in
2040.
The total population stood at 10% in 1950, rising to around 26% in the next 50 years, and is
predicted to go up to 43% in 2040. In 1950, the urban and rural populations achieved 8% and 2.5%
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respectively and, in the second half of the 20th century , the figure for the countryside continued to lag
that for metroplolitan areas by a significant margin of 8%. By 2040, this population disparity will have
got wider with a third of the country’s population living in cities, over 20% higher than the figure for
rural areas.
In the first year of the period, 7% of people in the country were 16-65-year-olds while the
figures for the 0-15 and over-65 age groups stood at 4.5% and 2.5% respectively. Thereafter, the
population of those aged 16-65 years over tripled in 2000, while the proportions of seniors and kids and
young teenagers showed a similar upward trend, reaching 7% and 5% respectively. 27.5% of the
population is expected to be 16-65-year-olds in 2040, by far higher than the respective projected figures
for the elderly and 0-15-year-olds, at 9% and 5.5%.
(159 words: Band 8.5 – 9.0)

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AUTHENTIC LISTENING SKILLS:

UNDERSTAND FAST SPEECH: STUDY NOTES
SOME PEOPLE SPEAK VERY FAST -
OFTEN BECAUSE THEY ARE
ENTHUSIASTIC ABOUT WHAT THEY ARE LESSON 3:
SAYING. SOME GROUP OF WORDS CAN
SOUND LIKE ONE LONG WORD. TO
DEAL WITH THIS, YOU CAN:
TED TALKS
LISTEN FOR WORDS YOU DO
UNDERSTAND
TRY TO GET THE MAIN IDEA
(AUTHENTIC LISTENING)
10 ways to have a better conversation – Celeste Headlee
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Read about Celeste Headlee and get ready to watch her talk
On Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=bfGQpe6FQcw
Or Ted: https://www.ted.com/talks/celeste_headlee_10_ways_to_have_a_better_conversation
First, read about the presenter:

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Celeste Headlee's years of interview experience give
her a unique perspective on what makes for a good
conversation
Celeste Headlee hosts a daily news/talk show, On

Second Thought, on Georgia Public Broadcasting.
Headlee has worked in public radio since 1999, as a

reporter, host and correspondent. She was the
Midwest Correspondent for NPR before becoming the
co-host of the PRI show "The Takeaway.” After that, she
guest hosted a number of NPR shows including "Tell Me
More,” "Talk of the Nation,” "Weekend All Things
Considered” and "Weekend Edition". Headlee also
anchored election coverage for PBS World in 2012 and
was a regular guest on CNN.
What do you think of her? Any expectations from her talk?
ACTIVITY SHEET
Listening website:
https://eltngl.com/sites/perspectives/student-resources/british-english/intermediate/student-book-
audio-intermediate
Select Unit 8 and track in each activity.
1. Read the authentic listening box (the black box). Listen to the first sentence of her talk.
Write down the words you hear. Track 54
2. Listen again. What does Celeste want the audience to do? Track 54
A. Unfriend s’one on Facebook
B. Put their hands up
3. Listen to five more short sentences. Write what you hear. Track 55
4. Discuss:
When you talk to people you don’t know very well, what are safe topics to talk about?
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Which topics should you definitely avoid? What do you talk about?
What does a good listener do?
5. After watching the talk, according to Celeste, are the sentences True (T) or False (F)?
1. Even the weather and your health aren’t safe topics of conversation anymore.
2. Smartphones are helping kids improve their interpersonal skills.
3. Celeste agrees with the advice everyone has heard about how to show that you are
paying attention.
6. Complete Celeste’s ten tips for having a better conversation.
1. Don’t________.
2. Enter every conversation assuming that you have something to________.
3. Use________questions. Start questions with who, what, when, why, where and how.
4. Go with the________. Thoughts will come into your mind and you need to let them go
out of your mind.
5. If you________, say you don’t know.
6. Don’t equate your________ with theirs.
7. Try not to________yourself.
8. Leave out the________.
9. ________. It’s the number one most important skill that you can develop.
10. Be________.
ANSWERS:
1. All right, I want to see a show of hands: how many of you have unfriended someone on
Facebook because they said something offensive about politics or religion, childcare, food?
2. B
3. Now, I make my living talking to people. I talk to people that I like. I talk to people that I
don't like. I talk to some people that I disagree with deeply on a personal level. But I still have
a great conversation with them.
4. (No, don’t be that lazy!:>)
5. 1.T, 2. F, 3 F
6. Some cute pictures that I found on: https://slidetodoc.com/art-of-listening-h-menchine-

emotions-running-high/
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EXTRA PRACTICE (no answers)

7. Choose the correct option:
1. Be present / available. Be in that moment.
2. If you want to state your opinion. Write an email / a blog.
3. Because then they might have to stop for a moment and think about it, and you’re going to
get a much more complete / interesting response.
4. Don’t stop listening when information / ideas come to you. Let them come and let them go.
5. Be careful about what you claim to be an expert / a listener in and know for sure.
6. It’s not about who is right / you.
7. We have a point to make, so we just keep rephrasing / repeating it over and over. Don’t do
that.
8. People care about you, not the names and the addresses / dates.
9. If your mouth is open, you are not learning / listening.
10. In short: be interested in everything / other people.
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STUDY NOTES
LESSON 4: VOCABULARY
(Relationship and Family)
1. dysfunctional: rối loạn chức năng
Example: Even more appropriate is that after eight years of being in that dysfunctional relationship, her
kids would be on welfare and they’d all have free Obama cell phones.
Relevant collocation:
● Dysfunctional family / relationship / attitude / behavior
● Emotional / broken / abusive / incompetent dysfunctional
2. nuclear family (n) gia đình hạt nhân (gia đình gồm 2 thế hệ cha mẹ – con cái)
Example: The trend towards the nuclear family is expected to result in a large increase in the number of
single elders.
3. extended family (n) đại gia đình
Example: A strong feature is that the book includes case studies of extended family systems as well as
nuclear family systems.
4. household (n) hộ gia đình
Example: High-technology products are hard to sell to households where the head of the household is
over 60 years of age.
● Household chores / expenses / waste
● Single–person household
5. behavioral (adj) hành vi
Example: The new chairman of the committee of managing director promised “behavioral and cultural
change” at top levels of the company.
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● Behavioral problems / difficulties
6. adulthood (n) trưởng thành
Example: An adult under English law is someone over 18 years old.
● reach / survive / enter / continue adulthood
● young / middle / late / emerging / successful / healthy adulthood
7. foster (v) chăm sóc
Example: They have fostered over 60 children during the past ten years.
● carefully / deliberately / energetically forster
● help (to) / be designed to foster
8. bond (n) liên kết, quan hệ
Example: There has been a close bond between them ever since she saved him from drowning.
● Close / strong / common / natural / emotional / spiritual bond
● Be linked by / feel / have bond
● Create / develop / forge / form / strengthen / break / destroy bond
9. tie (n) mối quan hệ
Example: He urged governments worldwide to break diplomatic ties with the new regime.
● Close / strong / weak / blood / family / emotional / personal / business / commercial / economic
/ cultural / political / social / traditional tie
● Have tie
● Establish / cement / strengthen / cut / sever tie
● Loosen / weaken tie
10. rapport (n) mối quan hệ
Example: We’d worked together for years and developed a close rapport.
● Close / easy / good / great / tremendous / personal / instant rapport
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● Build / develop / establish / enjoy / have / feel rapport
11. rebellious (adj) nổi loạn, ương ngạnh
Example: Her teachers regard her as a rebellious, trouble-making girl.
● Rebellious teenager / spirit / youth / nature / behavior
● Potentially / seemingly / fiercely / notably rebellious
12. obedient (adj) vâng lời
Example: Students are expected to be quiet and obedient in the classroom.
● Obedient child / dog / son
● Fully / perfectly / habitually / reluctantly / strictly obedient
13. permissive (adj) dễ dãi
Example: It’s a very permissive school where the children are allowed to do whatever they want.
● Become / be permissive
● Extremely / highly / very permissive
14. indulge (v) thưởng thức
Example: The soccer fans indulge their patriotism waving flags and singing songs.
● Be able to / be free to indulge
15. comply (v) tuân thủ
Example: He’s been ordered to have the dog destroyed because it’s dangerous, but he refuses to comply.
● Fully / strictly comply
● Fail to / refuse to comply
● Comply with
16. exposure (n) sự tiếp xúc
Example: Researchers concluded that low level exposure to the chemical was unlikely to cause harm.
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● Brief / greater / limited exposure
● Give somebody / get / have / increase exposure
17. sheltered (adj) che chở
Example: We found a sheltered spot to have our picnic.
● Be / look sheltered
● Snugly / well / fairly / quite / relatively sheltered
18. Well-adjusted (adj) được giáo dục tốt
Example: The school aim to produce well-adjusted members of society.
19. emotional security (n) cảm giác an toàn
Example: These mothers who talked about having emotional development as their children would gain a
sense of emotional security and feel more at ease as a result of attending music classes.
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STUDY NOTES
LESSON 5: LISTENING IN IELTS
IELTS Listening
IELTS Listening is divided into four sections, with 10 questions in each section. The test takes around
30 minutes to complete, with each section getting increasingly more difficult. You will have 10
minutes at the end of the listening test to transfer your answers to the answer sheet.
How to Get a Band 8 in IELTS Listening

Top 5 IELTS Listening Tips
1. Familiarise yourself with a range of accents.
The IELTS Listening test will feature a range of accents to reflect the international nature of
English. Therefore, you should get used to listening to accents from a range of English-speaking
countries.
Instead of just listening to the BBC, you could try smaller regional radio stations or actively
watching TV shows from different English-speaking countries. A quick search on Google is all you
need to find these.
2. Don’t lose your concentration.

It can be difficult to stay focused during your IELTS Listening test, but it’s also extremely
important if you want to score a Band 7 or above.
To improve your concentration you need to practice active listening.

This involves setting yourself small tasks when you are practising and actually doing something
when you are listening, just like you will be in your test.
3. Follow the instructions carefully.

This especially applies when it comes to the word limit. If the question states ‘No more than
three words’ then you can’t write any more than this. If your answer is four words it will be
incorrect.
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4. Familiarise yourself with the different question types.
Doing so will mean you’ll know exactly what to expect on test day and how to react to the
question types you’re given. To help you with this, you should use genuine practice IELTS past
papers.
5. Practice listening to things only once.

Lots of teachers allow their students to listen to a recording 3 or 4 times. However, I would
strongly recommend practising the exam under exam conditions and that means listening just
once.
IELTS Listening Question Types
Click on any of the links below for a full step-by-step guide to answering each IELTS Listening question
type:
● Summary Completion Lesson
This lesson will help you prepare for the test by familiarising you with summary completion questions,
giving you some tips and a chance to practice.
● Overview and Tips
This is a good article to start with and will allow you to understand exactly what the test is and how you
can use this site to improve your listening skills.
● Form Filling Question Tips
In the first section of the test, there is often a form filling question. Normally the answers will be one or
two words long and will be factual information, such as phone numbers, dates and times.
● Multiple Choice Questions
This post will show you how to effectively answer multiple-choice questions in the test. It will show you
the three different types of multiple-choice questions, look at common problems and give you tips and a
strategy to help you on test day.
● Labelling a Map or Plan
This post will help you answer labelling map or plan IELTS questions more effectively by looking at
common problems, useful language and giving you a strategy to use on test day.
Essential Exam Information
In order to score a Band 7+ in IELTS listening, you need to have a solid understanding of what is
expected from you. The information below will help you understand exactly what is required from you:
● The IELTS Listening test lasts around 30 minutes.

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● There are 40 questions in total. Each question carries 1 mark.

● The test is divided into 4 parts. The questions get progressively more difficult as the test goes
on.
● Timing is key. For each part, you will have time to look at the questions before the recording
begins and you will have time to check your answers at the end.
● You will be given 10 minutes to transfer your answers to the answer sheet provided at the end
of the test.
● Both General Training and Academic IELTS pupils take the same Listening exam.
● You can check out our complete guide to the IELTS exam here: IELTS Preparation Guide
IELTS Listening Test Day Advice
● Arrive at the test centre early and plan your journey in advance. You need to be settled,
organised and ready for what’s coming.
● Read and listen to the instructions very carefully. Many students throw away easy marks by
misreading or not following simple instructions.
● Write your answers on the test paper. Feel free to write on it. You’ve paid for it.
● Carefully transfer your answers to the answer sheet at the end.
● You can write in all capital letters if you wish.
● If you have problems hearing the recording, complain at the end. You’ve paid for a service and
you deserve to be treated properly.
● For more help with test day advice, check out the IELTS website here: IELTS Test Day Advice
Improving your Listening Skills
● IELTS Listening: 10 Steps Towards a Band 8
Many of our pupils need to get at least one Band 8 for visa application or scholarship purposes. This
article will detail the exact steps you must take if you need to get a Band 8 in listening.
● Best Podcasts for English Learners
Podcasts offer you an insight into what you can expect if you actually lived in an English speaking
country. There are also so many of them, that you can pick the ones that suit your interests.
● How to Improve Your Listening Skills
Students often ask me ‘How do I improve my reading and listening skills?’ The short answer is ‘Read and
listen more.’ However, this is not a very good answer because you need to know HOW to practice and
WHERE to get good sources of reading and listening material.
● Improving IELTS Listening through Connected Speech

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This post will teach you about connected speech, the inadequacies of IELTS textbooks in preparing
students for the listening test and suggest some alternatives for preparing from home.
IELTS Listening Practice
It’s vital that you practice your listening skills at home regularly and strategically. These lessons will
teach you how to practice wisely and improve your listening skills at home.
● IELTS Listening Practice
Here are some links to official IELTS practice tests:
● The British Council
● IDP
● IELTS Official
Remember: DO NOT use practice tests from unofficial sites. These tests are created by people who do
not know what they are doing. They are either too easy or too difficult. The tests will give you a false
impression of your current level and will sabotage your progress.
Review Your IELTS Listening Practice Tests in 6 Easy Steps
1. Complete official practice tests under exam conditions.
2. Identify any particular question types that caused you problems.
3. Analyse your mistakes.
4. Think about why you made those mistakes. What were the particular reasons why you
answered those questions incorrectly? Was it timing, strategy, vocabulary, grammar, listening
skills, spelling?
5. Focus on improving your weakest areas first.
6. Repeat the process until you are consistently getting the score you need.
Calculating Your Band Score from Your Marks
You can calculate your Band score by counting up your marks out of 40 and comparing them with the
scores below:
18-22- Band 5.5
23-25- Band 6.0
26-29- Band 6.5
30-31- Band 7.0
32-34- Band 7.5
35-36- Band 8.0

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37-38- Band 8.5

39-40- Band 9.0
______________________________________________________________________________
Source: IELTS advantage
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STUDY NOTES
Lesson 6: IELTS READING
'This Marvellous Invention'
Of all mankind’s manifold creations, language must take pride of place. Other inventions – the wheel,
agriculture, sliced bread – may have transformed our material existence, but the advent of language
is what made us human. Compared to language, all other inventions pale in significance, since
everything we have ever achieved depends on language and originates from it. Without language, we
could never have embarked on our ascent to unparalleled power over all other animals, and even
over nature itself.
But language is foremost not just because it came first. In its own right it is a tool of extraordinary
sophistication, yet based on an idea of ingenious simplicity: ‘this marvellous invention of composing
out of twenty-five or thirty sounds that infinite variety of expressions which, whilst having in
themselves no likeness to what is in our mind, allow us to disclose to others its whole secret, and to
make known to those who cannot penetrate it all that we imagine, and all the various stirrings of our
soul’. This was how, in 1660, the renowned French grammarians of the Port-Royal abbey near
Versailles distilled the essence of language, and no one since has celebrated more eloquently the
magnitude of its achievement. Even so, there is just one flaw in all these hymns of praise, for the
homage to language’s unique accomplishment conceals a simple yet critical incongruity. Language is
mankind’s greatest invention – except, of course, that it was never invented. This apparent paradox is
at the core of our fascination with language, and it holds many of its secrets.
_____________________________________________________________________________________
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Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion © Guy Deutscher, Random House Adult Trade Publishing Group. 2006
Questions 1 – 4
Complete the summary using the list of words, A-G, below. Write the correct letter, A-G, in
boxes 1-4 on your answer sheet.
The importance of language

The wheel is one invention that has had a major impact on 1 ............ aspects of life, but no
impact has been as 2 ............ as that of language. Language is very 3 ............ , yet composed
of just a small number of sounds. Language appears to be 4 ............ to use. However, its
sophistication is often overlooked.
A difficult B complex C original
D admired E material F easy
G fundamental
“Do-it-yourself”
The instructions accompanying do-it-yourself products are regularly cited as a source of unnecessary
expense or frustration. Few companies seem to test their instructions by having them followed by a
first-time user. Often, essential information is omitted, steps in the construction process are taken for
granted, and some degree of special knowledge is assumed. This is especially worrying in any fields
where failure to follow correct procedures can be dangerous.
Objections to material in plain English have come mainly from the legal profession. Lawyers point to
the risk of ambiguity inherent in the use of everyday language for legal or official documents, and
draw attention to the need for confidence in legal formulations, which can come only from using
language that has been tested in courts over the course of centuries. The campaigners point out that
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there has been no sudden increase in litigation as a consequence of the increase in plain English
materials.
Similarly, professionals in several different fields have defended their use of technical and complex
language as being the most precise means of expressing technical or complex ideas. This is
undoubtedly true: scientists, doctors, bankers and others need their jargon in order to communicate
with each other succinctly and unambiguously. But when it comes to addressing the non-specialist
consumer, the campaigners argue, different criteria must apply.
________________________________________________________________________________
Sample Academic Reading Summary Completion (selecting words from the text) [Note: This is an extract from a Part 3 text about the ‘Plain
English movement’, which promotes the use of clear English) ‘The Cambridge Encyclopedia of Language’, David Crystal, 3rd Edition, ©
Cambridge University Press, 2010.
Questions 1 – 5
Complete the summary below.
Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Write your answers in boxes 1-5 on your answer sheet.
Consumers often complain that they experience a feeling of 1 ............ when trying to put together
do-it-yourself products which have not been tested by companies on a 2 ............ . In situations
where not keeping to the correct procedures could affect safety issues, it is especially important that 3
............ information is not left out and no assumptions are made about a stage being self-evident or
the consumer having a certain amount of 4 ............ .
Lawyers, however, have raised objections to the use of plain English. They feel that it would result in
ambiguity in documents and cause people to lose faith in 5 ............ , as it would mean departing
from language that has been used in the courts for a very long time.
1. _____________________________ 2. _____________________________
3. _____________________________ 4. _____________________________
5. _____________________________
KEY:
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1-4:
1 E ■ material
2 G ■ fundamental
3 B ■ complex
4 F ■ easy
1 -5:
1. frustration
2. first-time user
3. essential
4. special knowledge
5. legal formulations
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STUDY NOTES
LESSON 7: VOCAB
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10
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______________________________________________________________________________
Source: Destination C1& C2
10
STUDY NOTES
Lesson 8: Some useful websites, youtube channels, apps to improve

your English that I highly recommend
1. Youtube channels:
- English with Lucy: https://www.youtube.com/c/EnglishwithLucy
This Youtube channel is mainly about real – life English. Lucy teaches the beautiful British English
(modern RP). She also has a business English course too, which is worth learning and 100% free.
- Lucy Bella: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCF6eEVtJokEFdaTDL5BKT4w
‘Lucy Bella’ is English with Lucy vlogging channel about her countryside life in England.
- Canguro English: https://www.youtube.com/c/Canguroenglish/featured
This Youtube channel changes the way the world learns English. Christian will help you find motivation
to start or continue learning English, techniques, tips and tricks for learning vocabulary and also some
classes cover random aspects of the English language: from theory, to grammar, to psychology, etc.
- E2 IELTS: https://www.youtube.com/c/E2IELTS
If you need help with IELTS writing, IELTS reading, IELTS listening or IELTS speaking, watch this channel!
With over 1 million IELTS YouTube subscribers, E2 Test Prep provides affordable, quality language
learning technology and test simulation. Check out www.e2language.com or email
10
hello@e2language.com for more information.

- BBC Learning English: https://www.youtube.com/user/bbclearningenglish
Learn how to speak English with the BBC! Every day they have a new video to help you learn the English
language. For more videos and content that will help you learn English, visit the website:
http://www.bbclearningenglish.com
- IELTS Daily: https://www.youtube.com/c/IELTSDailyCourses
IELTS daily is a good place for you to improve your IELTS skills quickly and effectively. Interesting classes
are created by IELTS experts with extensive experience of working with the exam. The lessons are
diverse and the channel tries to give you the tips you need to improve your IELTS score as quickly and
effectively as possible.
- CareerVidz: https://www.youtube.com/c/CareerVidz
CareerVidz specialises in teaching job-seekers everything there is to know about careers, tests and
interview questions and answers. Richard McMunn has put together two decades of his own expertise
in careers and education whilst working in the emergency services and the armed forces. He has
compiled all of this information into easy to view, step-by-step video tutorials that will help you pass
your job interview or test. If you are looking for interview questions and answers, and in particular how
to answer behavioral, situational and competency-based interview questions, this channel is the only
resource you need!
2. Websites:
1. IELTS Liz: https://ieltsliz.com/
IELTS Liz is probably the best free website for IELTS preparation. IELTS Liz is a creation of an experienced
teacher from the UK. There is also a youtube channel that has numerous explanatory videos. IELTS Liz
has many benefits as listed below:
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- Plenty of IELTS Sample Questions

- A detailed explanation of IELTS exam pattern
- Helpful videos on their youtube channel
- Helpful test day tips
2. IELTS Simon: Free Content To Study and Video Lessons: https://www.ielts-simon.com/
The website IELTS Simon was created by an ex-IELTS examiner, Simon, that still runs exam preparation
courses in Manchester, UK. The website gives you some free content to study IELTS, with recent archives
to practice, and video lessons are available on his Youtube channel. If you like to study with a book as
well, he explains some of the audio scripts from Cambridge IELTS 12, which is another good resource to
prepare for IELTS.
3. IELTS Online Test: https://ieltsonlinetests.com
IELTS Listening & Reading test is based on actual IELTS questions and standard format of Cambridge
IELTS book. It is created by a community of IELTS teachers, former IELTS examiners and former test
takers. The analysis tool based on your target score band, analyzes your progress and suggests you the
best ways to increase your band score. Not only do you know your score after each test, they also
explain how to choose the right answer so you can understand how to write the question.
4. Apps
1. Grammarly (Improve Your Writing and Make Fewer Mistakes)
I use this app and highly recommend it. It’s much more than just a spellchecker. It also highlights
grammar mistakes and gives you an explanation.
2. Anki (Digital Flashcards Everywhere)
If you have followed me for a while, you’ll know how much I believe in the To Fluency Sentence Method.
This is where you take sentences and phrases and repeat them in a smart way. This is the best way to
learn new words and internalize grammar. You can do this focusing on your speaking, writing, and
10
reading. Anki allows you to add your own digital flashcards (with audio) or upload cards that others have
made. Here are some tips for using Anki:
 use complete sentences to get the full benefit
 don’t add too many new cards as you will repeat them
 do a little every day
3. BBC Learning English (English Lessons Based on the News)
If you prefer structured lessons, this app is for you. Learn new vocabulary, take grammar lessons, and
improve your pronunciation by taking lessons based on the news. They keep updating their app and
have added subtitles to their videos.
4. italki (Take Private and Group English Lessons Online)
While Hello Talk focuses on making friends with English-speakers, italki allows you to take private and
group lessons online. Classes are one hour and you can take lessons with the teacher of your choice. I
recommend browsing teachers, taking a few trial lessons, and then getting into a weekly or bi-weekly
schedule. Everything is done online so can connect with teachers from anywhere in the world.
5. Hello Talk (Get Speaking and Writing Practice with English Speakers)
If you haven’t used this yet, you’re going to love it! This app allows you to talk in real time with people
from all over the world. It gives you the speaking practice that so many need. The app includes video
and audio calls, texting, translation tools, group chats, and a great search feature so that you can find
friends.
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STUDY NOTES
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IELTS PREPARATION- STUDY ENGLISH

LESSON 1: FORMAL AND

For the Academic Module of IELTS

Students writing academic essays

would be expected to use formal

Formal, written language is the type of

FEATURE FORMAL LANGUAGE INFORMAL LANGUAGE

The government should require

Adverbs: probably, possibly,

Although this is an old and probably

Adjectives: probable, possible

A possible solution to the problem

Nouns: possibility, claim, evidence

The scientists were concerned with

+) repetition should be Enviromental pollution will be the

+) avoid beginning Linking words expressing Formal Less formal

ABBREVIATIONS AND ACRONYMS

Abolish Do away with

4: It was shown that the conclusions didn’t measure up.

Include data as evidence or ANSWERS: 1. A: formal

Make your descriptions of

you use prepositions of time.

In describing data there are several aspects to consider:

+1) ORGANISATION OF A GOOD DESCRIPTION OF DATA - How to construct a

+2) LANGUAGE CHOICES IN DESCRIPTIONS OF DATA – language choice enables

+3) REGISTER –formal and informal language choices.

① ORGANISATION OF A GOOD DESCRIPTION OF DATA

1. STATEMENT: ‘DVD sales increased dramatically’

Another example of a good description:

1. The number of candidates taking IELTS increased again

So, follow these steps to construct a good description:

1. Identify the trend: Laptop production rose

② LANGUAGE CHOICES IN DESCRIPTIONS OF DATA

describe trends and significant features.

Look at these examples:

ADJECTIVE + NOUN CONSTRUCTION

VERB + ADVERB CONSTRUCTION

*VOCABULARY CHOICES FOR DESCRIPTIONS OF DATA

Fast The rise to go up (went/gone) Fast

Quick The increase to rise (rose/risen) Quickly

Sudden The growth to increase (-d) Suddenly

Significant The explosion to grow (grew) Significantly

Dramatic The fall to explode (-d) Dramatically

Large The drop to skyrocket (-ed) Sharply

Major The decrease to balloon (-ed) Steeply

Sharp The plummeting to soar (-ed) Slowly

Steep The sinking to go down Slightly

Slight to decrease (-d)

insignificant to plummet (-ted)

minor to sink ( sank/sunk)

③REGISTER – formal and informal language choices

At the beginning or end of the During a day, week, month, On Monday

On the morning of the weeding

At night In the evening

In the morning, afternoon

Note: In English, we say ‘at night’ but ‘in the evening’

*SAMPLE IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING PART 1:

Task 01: Line Graph

(159 words: Band 8.5 – 9.0)

AUTHENTIC LISTENING SKILLS:

First, read about the presenter:

Celeste Headlee hosts a daily news/talk show, On

Headlee has worked in public radio since 1999, as a