Hello, how are you today? I hope you’re doing well. Today, I’m going to introduce you to the most crucial module in IELTS among the four parts: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. Before we begin, make sure you are familiar with the basics of the IELTS test. If you’re not, I recommend reading the blog “Everything About IELTS”
Overview
The IELTS exam begins with the Listening module, which consists of 4 sections, each with 10 questions, totaling 40 questions. Each question is worth one mark.
- Section 1: A conversation between two speakers.
- Section 2: A monologue.
- Section 3: A conversation among up to four people, often the most challenging section.
- Section 4: Another monologue related to educational or training contexts.
Time Duration
The Listening test lasts about 30 minutes, with an additional 10 minutes to transfer answers to the answer sheet. However, for the computer-based IELTS exam, you won’t get these extra 10 minutes; instead, you’ll have 2 minutes to review your answers.
Question Type
The IELTS Listening test includes:
- ✔️ Multiple-choice questions
- ✔️ Matching
- ✔️ Plan/map/diagram labeling
- ✔️ Form completion
- ✔️ Note completion
- ✔️ Table completion
- ✔️ Flow chart completion
- ✔️ Summary completion
- ✔️ Sentence completion
- ✔️ Short answer questions
You’ll hear the recordings only once, so answer the questions as you listen.
Listening Marking
| Raw Score (Out of 40) | Band Score |
|---|---|
| 39-40 | 9 |
| 37-38 | 8.5 |
| 35-36 | 8 |
| 32-34 | 7.5 |
| 30-31 | 7 |
| 26-29 | 6.5 |
| 23-25 | 6 |
| 18-22 | 5.5 |
| 16-17 | 5 |
Understanding IELTS Listening Scores
Band 9:
Expert level. Understands complex ideas effortlessly with complete accuracy.
Band 8.5:
Very proficient. Rarely makes mistakes and comprehends nuanced language well.
Band 8:
Strong performance. Handles complex topics effectively with occasional errors.
Band 7.5:
Good user. Understands detailed reasoning and copes well in most situations.
Band 7:
Competent. Grasps main points in demanding contexts but with occasional mistakes.
Band 6.5:
Competent with some flaws. Understands detailed information but may struggle with complex language.
Band 6:
Adequate. Handles basic communication in familiar situations but with noticeable errors.
Band 5.5:
Modest user. Understands main points but struggles with unfamiliar topics and makes frequent mistakes.
Band 5:
Limited user. Understands general meaning but has difficulty with detailed information.
Band 4.5:
Limited ability. Grasps simple communication but lacks accuracy and fluency.
To do well in the IELTS Listening test, make sure to practice often, know how the test is set up, and use your time wisely. These steps will improve your listening abilities and boost your confidence during the test. Remember, the more you practice, the better your chances of reaching your goal score in the IELTS Listening section. To do better in IELTS visit 30 day study plan.
Good luck preparing!
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