The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a standardized English proficiency test used for academic and immigration purposes. It assesses your English language skills in four key areas: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking.

Here is what is involved in sitting for an IELTS Sri Lanka examination:

·       Registration: You need to find an authorized IELTS test centre near you and register for the test. You will need to provide identification documents, pay the test fee, and choose a test date.

·       Test Format: IELTS offers two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic module is suitable for those applying to study at undergraduate or postgraduate levels, while the General Training module is for those seeking work experience or immigration purposes. You need to choose the appropriate module based on your requirements.

·       Listening Test: The listening component consists of four sections with a total of 40 questions. You will listen to audio recordings and answer questions based on them. The recordings range from conversations and monologues to academic lectures.

·       Reading Test: The reading component also has different sections, usually three, with a total of 40 questions. The texts are taken from books, magazines, newspapers, and academic sources. The questions test your comprehension, vocabulary, and reading skills.

·       Writing Test: The writing component consists of two tasks. Task 1 requires you to describe, summarize, or explain visual information (charts, graphs, diagrams). Task 2 is an essay where you will present arguments, discuss a point of view, or analyse a problem. Both tasks assess your ability to organize ideas, use appropriate vocabulary and grammar, and express yourself coherently.

·       Speaking Test: The speaking component is a face-to-face interview conducted by a certified IELTS examiner. It is divided into three parts. Part 1 involves general questions about yourself, your interests, and your background. Part 2 requires you to speak on a given topic for two minutes. Part 3 involves a discussion related to the topic in Part 2, where you will express opinions and develop ideas.

·       Test Duration: The overall test duration is approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The listening, reading, and writing sections are completed on the same day, while the speaking section can be scheduled up to a week before or after the other sections.

·       Scoring: Each section is scored on a band scale of 0 to 9, and the scores are averaged to calculate your overall band score. Different institutions or immigration authorities may have specific score requirements for admission or visa purposes.

That test formats and procedures can vary slightly, so it is recommended to check the official IELTS website or consult with the test centre where you plan to take the exam for the most up-to-date information and specific guidelines.

Many candidates prefer to follow IELTS classes at affordable IELTS Sri Lanka course fees prior to the exam, in order to better prepare for it and gain a high score in one sitting.

All you need to know about Coherence and Cohesion in IELTS writing

Coherence and cohesion are important aspects of the Writing module in the IELTS test. They refer to how well you organize your ideas and how you connect them within and between paragraphs. Here is what you need to know about coherence and cohesion in IELTS writing:

Coherence:

·       Logical Organization: Your writing should have a clear and logical structure. Each paragraph should focus on a specific idea or topic, and there should be a logical progression of ideas throughout your essay.

·       Topic Sentences: Begin each paragraph with a clear topic sentence that introduces the main idea of the paragraph. This helps the reader understand the purpose of the paragraph and its relationship to the overall essay.

·       Paragraph Unity: Ensure that each paragraph is focused and unified. Stick to one main idea or argument in each paragraph and provide supporting details or examples to develop that idea.

·       Pronoun Reference: Use pronouns (he, she, it, they, etc.) and other cohesive devices to refer back to previously mentioned ideas or concepts. This helps in avoiding repetition and makes your writing more coherent.

Cohesion:

·       Linking Words and Phrases: Use a variety of linking words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a smooth flow in your writing. Examples of linking words include "however," "in addition," "furthermore," "on the other hand," and "consequently." These words help to show relationships between ideas (contrast, addition, cause and effect, etc.).

·       Transition Signals: Use transitional phrases or sentences to guide the reader through your writing. These signals indicate shifts in ideas, time, or order. Examples include "Firstly," "Moreover," "In conclusion," "Furthermore," and "On the contrary."

·       Lexical Cohesion: Use appropriate vocabulary and synonyms to refer back to previously mentioned words or ideas. This helps in avoiding repetition and making your writing more varied and cohesive.

·       Pronoun Reference: As mentioned earlier, use pronouns effectively to refer back to previously mentioned nouns or noun phrases. This creates cohesion within your writing.

Coherence and cohesion are assessed based on how well you organize your ideas, develop them within paragraphs, and connect them throughout your essay. Practice organizing your thoughts, using linking words effectively, and maintaining a clear and logical structure to enhance coherence and cohesion in your IELTS writing.