IELTS Preparation Handbook:

Writing & Speaking

Prepared by @arbhiehanafi
August 2023
Agenda

1. Test format

2. Coherence & cohesion

3. Advanced word
4. Writing section
5. Speaking section

3
IELTS test is devided into 4 section…

Listening Reading Writing Speaking

• Part 1 – a conversation Consists of three reading • Task 1 - describe, summarise • Part 1 - general questions
between two people set in passage with 40 questions using or explain the information from about ourself and a range of
an everyday social context. a number of task types: graph, table, chart or diagram familiar topics, such as
• Part 2 – a monologue set in 1) Multiple choice in our own words. May be home, family, work, studies
an everyday social context, 2) Identifying information asked to describe and explain and interests
e.g., a speech about local 3) Identifying writer’s data, describe the stages of a • Part 2 - talk about a
facilities. views/claim process, how something particular topic. We will
• Part 3 – a conversation 4) Matching information works or describe an object have one minute to prepare
between up to four people 5) Matching heading or event. before speaking for up to two
set in an educational or 6) Matching features • Task 2 - write an essay in minutes. The examiner will
training context, e.g., a 7) Matching sentence endings response to a point of view, then ask one or two questions
university tutor and a student 8) Sentence completion argument or problem. on the same topic.
discussing an assignment. 9) Summary, note, table, flow- Responses to both tasks must • Part 3 - further questions
• Part 4 – a monologue on an chart completion be in a formal style. about the topic in Part 2.
academic subject, e.g., a 10)Diagram label completion These will give us the
university lectur 11)Short-answer questions opportunity to discuss more
abstract ideas and issues.

4
Agenda

1. Test format

2. Coherence & cohesion

3. Advanced word
4. Writing section
5. Speaking section

5
Using coherence and cohesion for linking up sentences and/or
arguments Xxx = new words for Author

Listing Giving examples Highlighting Reasons

• Firstly • For example • Particularly → khususnya • Because
• First and foremost → terpenting • One clear example is • Specifically • Owing to → karena
• Secondly • For instance • Especially • Due to
• Thirdly • Such as • Obviously → jelas sekali • Since
• Fourthly • Namely • Of course • as
• Lastly/last but not least • To illustrate • clearly
• Finally • In other words

Adding information Consequences Concession Giving opinion

• In addition • As a result • Admittedly → memang • In my opinion
• Additionally • Consequently • However • From my perspective
• Furthermore • Therefore • Nevertheless → namun • I think
• Moreover • Thus • Even though → meskipun • I believe
• Also • Hence → karena itu • Although → meskipun • I admit
• Not only … but also • So • Despite • In my experience
• As well as • For this reason • In spite of • In my view
• And • On the other hand • I concur/agree
• Likewise → juga • By contrast • I disagree/ I cannot accept
• In comparison
• Alternatively
• While
• Whereas → sedangkan
• Otherwise → sebaliknya
6
Agenda

1. Test format
2. Coherence & cohesion

3. Advanced word

4. Writing section
5. Speaking section

7
Some advanced words to broaden our vocabulary range

Thrilled Thrive Esteemed Evoke Staple Strive

Sangat senang Berkembang Terhormat Membangkitkan Pokok Berjuang

Tranquil Adolescent Occupied Approximately Soar Top-notch

Tenang Remaja Disibukkan Sekitar Melonjak Terbaik

Enormous Awful Neat Well-known Amusing Savoury

Besar Buruk Bersih Terkenal Lucu Lezat

Foremost Hence Adequate Distinct Bridge Emphasis

Terpenting Karena itu Memadai Berbeda Menjembatani Menekankan

Fellow Eager Foster Deliberately It turns out

Rekan Ingin sekali Membina Dengan sengaja ternyata

8
Use synonyms or similar words to avoid
word repetition

Common words Synonym

Increase Grow, rose, fluctuate, climb, elevate, soar, thrive

Decrease Drop, fall, decline Tips

some complement word to add more
Answer Response, address, reply information to condition:
• Significantly → signifikan
Big Huge, enormous,
e.g., profits and sales have grown significantly
Very Extremely, tremendously, extraordinarily, immensely since 2010
• Respectively → masing-masing
Good Excellent, fine, wonderful, splendid, top-notch, incredible e.g., doubled in hours from over 5 to over 15
and from over 5 to exactly 15 respectively
Happy Pleased, delighted, joyful • Consistently → konsisten
e.g., children consistently accounted for the
Have Possess, own, acquire
lowest proportion
Help Aid, assist, support • Gradually → perlahan-lahan
e.g., the proportion of men climbed gradually
Important Vital, critical, valuable, essential to peak
• Dramatically → dramatis
Make Create, produce e.g., playing sport fell more dramatically from
10 hours to 2 hours a week
Show Display, indicate, reveal, illustrate, point out, presents
• Steadily → stabil
Tell Reveal, inform, expose e.g., this figure then rose steadily to reach a
peak

9
Agenda

1. Test format
2. Coherence & cohesion
3. Advanced word

4. Writing section
 Task 1

 Task 2
5. Speaking section

11
Writing task 1 must contained at least 4
paragraph with 3 essential aspect
Aspect Content Tips

Introduction Contains a description of Do a paraphrase to the

the graphs description given with our own Tips
word
• If necessary, it is
Overview Contains all the key and/or Point out the interesting possible to add one
main features of the graph part of the information e.g., more body paragraph
or the chart the highest point, the lowest depending on the data
point given
• The overview is
Body Contains detailed Show the particular possible to put at the
information about specific condition for each end of the report,
features of the graph or the categories supported by data otherwise we can call it
chart given conclusion
• Percentage,
proportion, number
and amount are the
common words used for
describing information
12
Writing task 1 – sample model and answer (1/6)

Sample model 1 Sample answer

The bar chart below shows the hours per week that The bar chart illustrates how many hours adolescents in Chester spent
Introduction
teenagers spend doing certain activities in Chester from on seven activities each week between 2002 and 2007.
2002 to 2007
Overall, the most popular activity over the period given was watching TV,
whereas bowling was the least favourite. Going to pubs and discos,
watching TV and shopping all showed an increase in the number of hours Overview
teenagers spent on these activities. The other pursuits showed a
decrease in hours, except watching DVD’s which fluctuated.

Teenagers spent 25 hours on watching television in 2002 which

increased to almost 40 hours in the final year. Both going to pubs and
Body
discos, and shopping more than doubled in hours from over 5 to over 15
and from over 5 to exactly 15 respectively.

While teenagers occupied 10 hours doing homework in 2002, this figure

dropped to just over 5 in 2007. Playing sport fell more dramatically from
10 hours to around 3 hours. Bowling was under 5 hours throughout the
entire period declining by about 4 hours in total. The number of hours Body
teenagers dedicated to watching DVDs was only 10 hours in first and
final years but reached a peak of over 15 hours in 2004 and 2005.

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 13
Writing task 1 – sample model and answer (2/6)

Sample model 2 Sample answer

The chart below shows the percentage of people who ate The bar chart illustrates the proportion of women, men and children
five portions of fruit and vegetables per day in the UK from consuming five servings of fruit and vegetables each day in 8 years from Introduction
2001 to 2008 2001 to 2008 in the UK.

Overall, it can be seen that the highest percentage of all people

consuming fruit and vegetables was women, while children consistently
accounted for the lowest proportion. Furthermore, a significant increase Overview
in the proportion of people eating these food items can be seen over the
period given.

The percentage of women who ate fruit and vegetables started at just
over 20% in 2001. this figure then rose steadily to reach a peak of almost Body
35% in 2006, before falling slightly to 30% in the final year.

In terms of men and children eating fruit and vegetables, the rate
remained relatively stable in the first three years (about 17% and 12%
respectively). From this point, the proportion of men climbed gradually to
Body
peak at about 27% in both 2006 and 2007, after which it dropped to about
26%. A similar growth in the figure for children was evident reaching 25%
in 2007 and around 24% in the final year.

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 14
Writing task 1 – sample model and answer (3/6)

Sample model 3 Sample answer

The graph below shows the consumption of 3 spreads The line graph illustrates the amount of three kinds of spreads
from 1981 to 2007 (margarine, low fat and reduced spreads and butter) which were
consumed over 26 years from 1981 to 2007. Units are measured in Introduction
grams.

Overall, the consumption of margarine and butter decreased over the

period given, while for low fat and reduced spreads, it rose. At the start of
the period, butter was the most popular spread, which was replaced by Overview
margarine from 1991 to 2001, and following that low fat and reduced
spreads become the most widely used spread in the final years.

With regards to the amount of butter used, it began around 140 grams
and then peaked at 160 grams in 1986 before falling dramatically to
about 50 grams in the last year. Likewise, approximately 90 grams of Body
margarine was eaten in the first year after which the figure fluctuated
slightly and dropped to a low of 40 grams in 2007.

On the other hand, the consumption of low fats and reduced spreads only
started in 1996 at about 10 grams. This figure, which reached a high of
just over 80 grams 5 years later, fell slightly in the final years to
approximately 70 grams in 2007. Body

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 15
Writing task 1 – sample model and answer (4/6)

Sample model 4 Sample answer

The table below shows information and predictions The table illustrate the percentage of elderly population who are 65 years
regarding the change in percentage of the population aged old and over in three countries (Canada, Germany and UK) in 1988, 2000 Introduction
65 and above in three countries and estimated percentage in 2030

Overall, the population of elderly people is predicted to rise in all three

countries from 1988 to 2030. The highest percentage of older people was
Overview
in Germany, which will continue to remain the highest in 2023, while the
lowest proportion can be seen in the UK over the period given.

Between 1988 and 2000, the aging population of Canada and Germany
went up around 5% to 20,67% and 25,32% respectively. The UK, on the
Body
other hand, showed relatively little change in the proportion of its
population aged 65 plus and remained at just under 15% in both years.

By 2030, it is expected the population of people aged 65 and above will

increase by approximately 5,5% in all three countries. The percentage is
forecast to reach 30,42% in Germany, 26,35% in Canada and 20,35% in Body
the UK.

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 16
Writing task 1 – sample model and answer (5/6)

Sample model 5 Sample answer

The table below gives information about consumer The table illustrate the proportion of national expenditure in Ireland, Italy, Introduction
spending on different items in five different countries in Spain, Sweden and turkey on three types of consumer items in 2002.
2002
Overall, the category of consumer goods that all countries spent most on
was food, drinks and tobacco, which was three time higher than on the
Overview
other types of goods. The lowest spending could be seen in the category
of leisure and education in all five countries.

In terms of food, drinks and tobacco, Turkey spent the most at 32,14%.
The expenditure of Ireland was also high (28,9%) compared to Sweden
which spent the least (15,77%). Spain and Italy spent 18,80% and
16,36% respectively. On the other hand, the lowest expenditure was on Body
leisure and education which accounted for under 5% in all countries.
Turkey spent most on these items at just 4,35% of their national
expenditure which is around double that of Spain (1,98%)

Clothing and footwear was the third category of consumer goods and
outlays for those items were between 9% in Italy and 5,40% in Sweden.
Body
The national spending in this area for the remaining countries averaged
around 6,5%.

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 17
Writing task 1 – sample model and answer (6/6)

Sample model 6 Sample answer

The chart below shows the number of trips made by The bar chart illustrates the number of trips taken by children aged 5 to
children in one country in 1990 and 2010 to travel to and 12 using five different modes of transportation (car passenger, walking, Introduction
from school using different modes of transport cycling, walking & bus, and bus) in two distinct years, 1980 and 2010.

Overall, it is evident that walking was the most commonly chosen mode
of transportation for children in 1990, whereas car passenger trips were
the least frequent. However, by 2010, car passenger trips had become Overview
the predominant choice, surpassing walking, while cycling recorded the
lowest number of trips.

In 1990, the total number of walking trips exceeded 12 million, making it

the most preferred mode of transport. Bus travel accounted for
approximately 7 million trips, followed by cycling and walking & bus, each Body
at around 6 million trips. Car passenger trips were the least frequent, with
only 4 million trips recorded.

In contrast, by 2010, the number of car passenger trips had increased

significantly to over 10 million, representing a twofold rise compared to
the previous decade. During this period, the number of walking trips, Body
which had been the predominant mode of transport in 1990, decreased
from over 12 million to just under 6 million trips.

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 18
Agenda

1. Test format
2. Coherence & cohesion
3. Advanced word

4. Writing section

 Task 1

 Task 2

5. Speaking section

19
Similar to writing task 1, writing task 2 must
contained at least 4 paragraph with 3 essential
aspect, but with different structure
Aspect Content Tips

Introduction Contains a clear and State your position or

concise introduction viewpoint or provide a brief Tips
overview of the topic.
• Writing task 2 essay
must consists of two
Body Contains detailed Clear topic sentence, and
or three body
information about specific then support it with relevant
paragraphs. Each
features of the graph or the examples, evidence, and
paragraph should
chart explanations.
focus on a specific
point or idea
Conclusion Summarize of our main Avoid introducing new
points and the restatement information in the • Percentage,
of our thesis in the conclusion. End with a proportion, number
conclusion strong and memorable and amount are the
closing statement common words used for
describing information

20
Writing task 2 - sample model and answer (1/4)
Sample model 1 Sample answer

many people believe that social networking (such as Social networking platforms, including Facebook, have become an integral part of
facebook) have had a huge negative impact on both contemporary life, facilitating communication and connections. However, there is
individuals and society. to what extend do you agree? an ongoing debate about whether these platforms have a primarily negative Introduction
impact on individuals and society. In this essay, I will examine the extent to which
I agree with this assertion.

Firstly, social networking can have adverse effects on individuals. It is a common

observation that excessive use of platforms like Facebook can lead to addiction
and a decrease in productivity. The constant stream of notifications and content
can distract individuals from their work, affecting their performance and mental Body
well-being. Furthermore, the pursuit of validation and the comparison with
idealized representations of others' lives can lead to self-esteem issues and
mental health problems, such as anxiety and depression.

However, It is essential to acknowledge that social networking platforms also offer

significant benefits. They allow individuals to connect with friends and family,
irrespective of geographical distance, and foster global communication. In the Body
context of societal impact, social media has played a crucial role in mobilizing
communities for social causes, spreading awareness, and promoting positive
change

. In conclusion, I partly agree with the statement that social networking has had a
negative impact on both individuals and society. The extent of this impact varies
and largely depends on how individuals and societies manage and utilize these Conclusion
platforms. Responsible and mindful use of social networking is crucial to mitigate
the negative consequences and maximize the benefits.

21
Writing task 2 - sample model and answer (2/4)
Sample model 2 Sample answer

Completing university education is thought by some The topic of whether completing university education or gaining work experience
to be the best way to get a job. On the other hand, and developing soft skills is the most effective means to secure employment has
been a subject of debate for some time. In this essay, I will explore the arguments Introduction
other people think that getting experience and
developing soft skills is more important. on both sides of this issue before presenting my viewpoint.

Many individuals believe that completing a university education is the best way to
Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
secure a job. They argue that a degree on one's resume provides a strong
foundation of knowledge and skills that employers value. Graduates often possess
Body
specialized knowledge in their field, which can make them more competitive in the
job market. Furthermore, a degree is often a prerequisite for certain professions and
higher-paying positions.

On the contrary, some argue that work experience and soft skills hold greater
significance in the job search. Practical experience can provide individuals with the
real-world skills and expertise that are often not adequately covered in a university
setting. Soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and adaptability, are highly Body
sought after by employers as they contribute to a person's overall effectiveness in a
work environment. Moreover, individuals who have honed their soft skills through
experience may be better equipped to handle various job-related challenges

In conclusion, the debate between completing university education and gaining

experience with soft skills is not one that requires a definitive answer. The
combination of both academic qualifications and practical experience is the most
effective approach to enhance employability. It is essential for individuals to strike a Conclusion
balance between formal education and experiential learning, ultimately allowing
them to secure employment and thrive in their chosen career paths.

22
Writing task 2 - sample model and answer (3/4)
Sample model 3 Sample answer

Some people think that money is one of the most The question of whether money is a fundamental factor in promoting happiness has
essential factors in promoting happiness. been a subject of contemplation for generations. In this essay, I will share my
perspective on whether people can find happiness without significant wealth and Introduction
Do yo think people can be happy without much explore other factors that contribute to one's overall well-being.
money?
I firmly believe that people can indeed find happiness without substantial wealth.
While money can provide comfort and convenience, it is not the sole determinant of
What other factors contribute towards happiness?
happiness. Many individuals with modest means lead fulfilling and contented lives Body
by focusing on other essential aspects, such as relationships, personal
development, and simple pleasures.

There are several factors that contribute to happiness aside from monetary wealth.
Relationships, for example, play a crucial role. Strong connections with family and
friends, as well as a supportive social network, can bring immense joy and a sense
of belonging. Personal growth and self-fulfillment, whether through pursuing
passions, education, or skill development, are also significant contributors to Body
happiness. Additionally, one's physical and mental health significantly impact overall
happiness. A healthy body and mind provide a solid foundation for well-being. The
ability to maintain a positive outlook, resilience, and the capacity to manage stress
are essential components of happiness.

In conclusion, while money can undoubtedly contribute to happiness by providing

comfort and security, it is not the sole path to a joyful life. People can find happiness
without much money by fostering strong relationships, pursuing personal growth, Conclusion
maintaining good physical and mental health. It is the balance between these
factors that truly promotes happiness, with wealth being just one piece of the puzzle.

23
Writing task 2 - sample model and answer (4/4)
Sample model 4 Sample answer

Some people think that money is one of the most Recently, there have been a lot of discussions about health and whether it is going
essential factors in promoting happiness. to improve or not. In my opinion, I think that people will become unhealthier in the Introduction
future than they are now.
Do yo think people can be happy without much
There are many reasons that support the idea of people becoming unhealthy in the
money?
future. Firstly, one reason is that of food. People tend to eat more fast food
nowadays. They tend to treat themselves with sweets and chocolate whenever they
What other factors contribute towards happiness?
want. This appears to be because people are busier now than they used to be. So, Body
people don’t have a chance to cook or even learn the art of cookery. Also, having a
lot of unhealthy food can lead to obesity and it could be a serious issue in the future.
Another reason is that technology is developing everyday.

Other people might disagree and say that health will improve in the future. They
believe that new sports and new ways to exercise will appear in the future. However,
I don’t think it can happen since the majority of people spend less time outdoors.
Moreover, other people believe that technology will try and help people improve their
health. For example, there have been some games released on the Wii console that
makes people exercise but technology is developing more in a negative way. For Body
instance, many phone industries are developing new applications everyday and
today’s generation likes to follow every trend. This prevents people to go outside to
exercise. They like to spend more time on the internet downloading new
programmes or reading gossips about celebraties. This affects people’s health
badly.

In conclusion, I believe that people’s health is affected negatively by fast food,

technology and sports and it will be a problem in the future. Conclusion

24
Agenda

1. Test format
2. Coherence & cohesion
3. Advanced word
4. Writing section

5. Speaking section

25
Common topics & questions in speaking part 1
Work Study Hometown Home
• What is your job? • What do you study? • Where is your hometown? • Where is your home?
• Where do you work? • Where do you study? • Do you like your hometown? • Do you live in a house or a
• Why did you choose that • Why did you choose that • Do you often visit your flat?
job? subject? hometown? • Who do you live with?
• Is it a popular job in your • Is it a popular subject in your • What is your hometown • Are there many rooms in
country? country? like? your home?
• Do you like your job? • Do you like that subject? • What is the oldest place in • What is your favorite room?
• Do you get on well with your • Do you get on with your your hometown? • How are the walls
colleagues? colleagues? • What is there for a foreigner decorated?
• What was your first day like? • What was your first day like? to do or see in your • What would you change
• What responsibilities do you • What are the main aspects hometown? about your home?
have at work? of your subject? • How could your hometown • Do you plan to live there in
• If you had the chance, would • If you had the chance, would be improved? the future?
you change your work? you change your subject? • Has your hometown • What is your neighbourhood
• Do you plan to continue with • Do you plan to get a job in changed much since you like?
your job in the future? the same field as your were a child? • What facilities are there near
subject? your home?

Tips : always use coherence and cohesion for linking up sentences and/or arguments

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 26
Common topics & questions in speaking part 2 & 3

Describe a gift you recently Describe an interesting hobby Describe a language you have Describe a song you like
gave to someone learned
What we should say: What we should say:
What we should say: • What it is What we should say: • What kind of song it is
• Who you gave it to • What kind of people do it • What it is • What the song is about
• What kind of person he/she • How it is done • When you started learning • When you first heard it
is • Explain why you think it is • How you learning it • Explain why you like it
• What the gift was interesting • What was difficult about it
• What occasion the gift was • Why you decided to learn
for that language
• Explain why you chose that
gift

Notes:
• Always use coherence and cohesion for linking up sentences and/or arguments
• Remember, speaking part 2 is a one-way conversation. We will be given a topic by examiner, and we need to talk
about that by ourself
• In speaking part 3, the examiner will ask a broader range of question based on the topic and our answer form
part 2. We need to expand our answers further with explanation and examples

Source: https://ieltsliz.com/ 27
Goodluck for
all of us in our
test day

28