Common Myths and Misconceptions about the IELTS Speaking test.
If you really want to do well in your speaking test there are a few things you need to understand about how the test works and how the examiner will assess you and this involves debunking some well-worn myths that persist around the speaking test. Here are some of the most common misconceptions about the speaking test.
You need a specific accent (e.g. British or American) to score well. This is a popular misconception and it’s completely false. Remember that in assessing your pronunciation, the examiner isn’t listening to your native accent but looking at how you use sounds (vowels & consonants, short & long sounds) to form your words and other features such as intonation, word linking and stress to produce smooth speech and convey feeling. A speaker’s native accent is irrelevant. In other words, a native Indian speaker can produce perfectly good English pronunciation speaking in an Indian accent as long as they use these pronunciation features correctly.
Using complex words and sentences is always better. Not necessarily. While a wide range of vocabulary (lexical resource) and grammar is assessed, the primary focus is on natural communication and the flow of your ideas (fluency and coherence). It’s a common mistake to ‘force’ complex or advanced vocabulary and structures into answers when the speaker is not 100% sure or confidant about using this advanced language. It often results in stilted, unnatural and ungrammatical English which can negatively impact your score, so stick to using language that you are confidant and comfortable with.
Memorizing answers will help you score higher. A definite no-no. Memorized answers often sound unnatural and robotic. Examiners are trained to spot this and will penalize it, as it soon as they hear it. Quoting lines from memory doesn't demonstrate genuine spontaneous speaking ability.
The examiner's opinions matter. The examiner is not judging your personal views or opinions, but rather your language skills. You will not be graded up or down based on whether the examiner agrees with you.
There is only one "correct" answer. Remember the test is not about what you know, but about how well you can express yourself. There is no such thing as a ‘right’ or ‘wrong’ answer in the speaking test. You are free to express your views, as long as you are using the English language effectively and your ideas are relevant to the question.
Asking the Examiner to repeat or clarify the question will lower your score. Another common misconception. You can in fact ask for clarification if you do not understand a question. Not asking for clarification and attempting to answer a question you don’t really understand is a common mistake because it usually leads to the candidate giving an irrelevant answer which definitely will impact their score in a negative wat.
Perfect grammar is required for a high score. Even at high band scores (like Band 7 or 8), occasional basic errors are permissible. Focusing too much on perfect grammar and correcting every mistake you make can lead to excessive pauses and this will damage your fluency.
The examiner will help you if you are going off-topic or talking too much/little. Don’t rely on the examiner to guide you or correct you while you are speaking. The examiner generally has no duty to correct you, prompt you, or give you cues during the test. You are expected to manage your own speaking flow.
Remember: understanding the test is as important as knowing test strategies and having the level of English you need to achieve your target band score. So knowing the realities and avoiding common misconceptions and misinformation surrounding the test is an essential element of test preparation.
