In this series Greg Archer, the author of Mindset for IELTS, provides bite-size support for teachers new to preparing students for IELTS. In his final instalment, Greg gives some extra tips for the IELTS classroom.
Using the Communicative approach
Greg says that IELTS students are often completely focused on the test, so a communicative approach is unlikely to work with them. And if they have only a couple of weeks to prepare, it could be a waste of time. It’s fine to use communicative activities – but always link them back to specific parts of the test.
Using practice tests in the classroom
Practice tests have a place in the classroom because they help students develop their skills and approach to the test. But on their own, they are not a tool that will help students improve their scores. Make sure students work on activities that develop their language skills too.
Knowing what examiners are looking for
Students who know how to produce answers in the way that examiners are looking for can gain better scores. It’s the teacher’s job to help students develop their technique so they can produce answers that show examiners their skills, and earn good marks.
Managing mixed-ability classes
IELTS classrooms will often have students with widely differing abilities, which can be challenging for teachers. My advice is to use differentiation: know which students are stronger, which are comparatively weaker, and understand their motivation for taking IELTS. That way you can tailor activities appropriately to different students.
Linking classroom activities to the test
It’s essential to connect activities back to the test – and ask students themselves to think about how classroom work links to relevant parts of the test. This way students will feel confident they are making progress towards taking their test.
Watch Greg’s video below where he talks about these tips in detail:
Check out Greg’s last article where he shares his tips for the IELTS Listening test.