IELTS Structure

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) evaluates English proficiency through four main sections:

Speaking: In this 11–14-minute face-to-face interview, you’ll engage in a conversation with an examiner, deliver a short monologue on a topic, and participate in a discussion. This test section can be scheduled on a different day from the other three sections.

Listening: This section lasts 40 minutes and includes 40 questions. You’ll listen to recordings (such as conversations and monologues) and answer questions about them. This part includes different types of questions, like multiple-choice or gap-fill, which require careful listening and accurate response.

Reading: Lasting one hour, this section also includes 40 questions. You’ll read several texts and respond to various question types—like matching titles to paragraphs or determining if statements are “True, False, or Not Given.” The reading materials are drawn from different contexts to reflect a range of language used in English-speaking environments.

Writing: This section, also 60 minutes, is divided into two tasks. In the Academic IELTS, the first task involves describing information from graphs or tables, while the General Training IELTS requires writing a letter. The second task in both versions is an essay based on a given topic or argument.

IELTS preparation with Lampaling

Lampaling offers a unique, engaging way to practice for the Reading and Listening sections of the IELTS. With interactive exercises, learners can prepare in a fun, motivating environment that makes studying feel less like a chore.

In the Reading module, you’ll encounter varied text types and practice identifying key ideas, matching information, and choosing accurate answers—all essential skills for the IELTS. Our Listening section includes simulated conversations and monologues that mirror the structure of the actual IELTS exam, allowing you to develop critical listening skills in a supportive and enjoyable setting.

Lampaling’s playful, intuitive design helps you stay focused and engaged, ensuring that you get the most out of your study sessions and build confidence for test day. Master IELTS preparation with the help of Lampaling.

Scoring System

The IELTS is scored on a 9-band scale, with each section graded from 0 to 9. Here’s a more detailed breakdown of what each score means:

• 0: Did Not Attempt – No questions were answered; the candidate was absent from the test.
• 1: Non-User – Has no ability to use the language except for a few isolated words.
• 2: Intermittent User – Can communicate only in very familiar situations with significant difficulty.
• 3: Extremely Limited User – Can convey and understand only general meaning in very familiar situations. Frequent breakdowns in communication occur.
• 4: Limited User – Basic competence is limited to familiar situations. Has frequent problems in understanding and expression.
• 5: Modest User – Has a partial command of the language, coping with overall meaning in most situations, although likely to make many mistakes.
• 6: Competent User – Has an effective command of the language despite some inaccuracies, misunderstandings, and inappropriate language use. Can generally understand complex language in familiar contexts.
• 7: Good User – Has operational command of the language, with occasional inaccuracies and misunderstandings. Generally handles complex language well and understands detailed reasoning.
• 8: Very Good User – Has fully operational command of the language with only occasional unsystematic inaccuracies and inappropriacies. Handles complex, detailed argumentation well.
• 9: Expert User – Has full operational command of the language. Their use of English is appropriate, accurate, and fluent, with complete understanding.

Your overall IELTS score is an average of the four sections, rounded to the nearest half or whole band.

By understanding the structure of the IELTS and practicing effectively, you can approach the exam with confidence. Lampaling’s interactive approach makes this process enjoyable, giving you the tools to succeed and the practice you need in a supportive and dynamic environment.