In order to get IELTS band 8.0, do you follow a strict schedule and spend a certain amount of time reviewing IELTS everyday?
I consider myself quite lucky since the syllabus at my university is taught in English; thus, I have a great opportunity to get exposed to English almost every day. As far as IELTS pratice is concerned, I mostly dedicated my time to writing reports-task 1 in the writing test since I am not quick and good at reading graphs. Figuring out what the numbers are meant to represent and writing a report in 20 minutes were a challenge to me at that time. I always bear in mind the motto “Practice makes perfect” because it never gets old.
In your opinion, how long for which we need to concentrate on practicing is adequate? Many people think that if we want a high score, we must spend lots of time studying. What is your view on it?
To get a satisfactory result requires a certain amount of time, undoubtedly. However, in my view,when it comes to studying it is how much effort you put in the target that counts, not how long the practice lasts.
Majority of IELTS examinees are students. Their preparation for IELTS, therefore, is strongly influenced by their schoolwork, extracurricular activities, daily life and relaxation. Couldyou give them some advice ?
I have to admit that it is hard to balance the schoolwork and IELTS at the same time. However, there is nothing impossible for those who have strong motivation. If you regard a high IELTS score as a must-have, strive for it.
People rarely gain 8.5 for Writing test. Could you share your recipes for learning this skill with us?
I am in the habit of watching news in English everyday. English news may sound to have nothing to do with writing. However, I find it extremly essential because it keeps me updated on what is going on around the world. To my way of thinking, writing is all about how much knowledge you share and how coherently you convey it. Reading news in English has done me a world of good. Not only can I widen my vocabulary but I can also learn how English essays are supposed to be written and therefore avoid being influenced by my mother tongue. Thanks to the wide-ranging news, I know that I have enough ideas and knowledge to handle any essays requiring in-depth analysis or any general speaking topics. Obviously, reading is not enough to make a good writer. It is highly imperative that you get down to practicing writing and have your essays proofread and corrected by someone who is experienced in writing skill. I am really grateful to Mr Ken for his proofreading and comments on my essays during the course at KTDC Group.
Since some topics of Writing task 2 are sometimes not close to many people, they find it difficult to generate their own points of view on those issues. Have you ever met up with this difficulty?
Generating ideas for such general topics like writing task 2 is not easy at all. From my point of view, broadening general knowledge and developing critical thinking is the key to a well-written essay. During
the course at KTDC Group, I often had a hard time brainstorming ideas for the topics I am not familiar with. However, Mr Ken gradually helped me overcome difficulties by suggesting some websites where I can collect information and ideas as well as widen my knowledge. I personally think that what opinions you hold about a topic will make your essay stand out from others. Knowledge is indispensible no matter where you gain it, either from books or real-life experience.
What do you think about the role that the teachers at KTDC Group have played in your formidable score?
I’m a senior now, so an international language certification is in great demand. However, IELTS Exam was totally new to me at that time. Therefore, taking a preparation course for IELTS was a natural need and IELTS Level 3 at KTDC Group turned out to be a right choice for me. The course has really paid off. Despite the fact that I took the course for 3 months only, I cannot deny the important role Mr Ken and Mike played in my passing the test with flying colors. They without a doubt did a great job in helping me grasp the skills and techniques, prepare for the type of questions I will have to answer in the test as well as familiarise myself with the test format and time restrictions by doing mock practice tests.
Thank you so much for your time and wish you every success in life