IELTS Exam

IELTS | Test Takers - Academic or General Training?
There are two versions of IELTS to choose from:

IELTS Academic
IELTS General Training
IELTS Academic Institutions of Higher and Further Education
The Academic format is, broadly speaking, for those who want to study or train in an
English-speaking university or Institutions of Higher and Further Education. Admission to
undergraduate and postgraduate courses is based on the results of the Academic
test. IELTS Academic may also be a requirement to join a professional organisation in an
English-speaking country.
General Training for school, work or migration
The General Training format focuses on general survival skills in broad social and
workplace contexts. It is typically for those who are going to English-speaking
countries to do secondary education, work experience or training programs. People
migrating to Australia, Canada and New Zealand must sit the General Training test.
IELTS | Test Takers - General Training Reading sample

The General Training Reading test is 60 minutes long.
A variety of questions are used, chosen from the following types; multiple choice, identifying
information, identifying writers views/claims, matching information, matching headings,
matching features, matching sentence endings, sentence completion, summary completion,
note completion, table completion, flow-chart completion, diagram label completion, shortanswer questions.
IELTS | Test Takers - General Training Writing sample

The General Training Writing test is 60 minutes long.
It has two writing tasks of 150 words and 250 words.
In Task 1, candidates are asked to respond to a situation, by writing a letter for example,
requesting information or explaining a situation.
In Task 2, candidates write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem.
Below are samples of Task 1 and Task 2. (Note that candidates for IELTS Academic do a
different Reading test to IELTS General Training).
IELTS | Test Takers - Speaking sample

In the Speaking test, you have a discussion with a certified Examiner. It is interactive
and as close to a real-life situation as a test can get.
The test is 11 to 14 minutes long with three parts.
In Part 1, you answer questions about yourself and your family.
In Part 2, you speak about a topic.
In Part 3, you have a longer discussion on the topic.
There are three parts to the test and each part fulfills a specific function in terms of
interaction pattern, task input and candidate output.
The Speaking test is the same for both Academic and General Training tests.
IELTS | Test Takers - Listening sample

The Listening test is 30 minutes long and is four recorded monologues and
conversations.
The Listening test is the same for both Academic and General Training tests.
The following IELTS Listening Sample Tasks are to be used with the Answer Sheet and
MP3 audio files/transcripts. Each answer sheet indicates which Recording to listen to, or if a
transcript is provided.
IELTS | General Training Reading sample
General Training Reading sample task - Flow-chart completion
ROBOTS AT WORK
A
The newspaper production process has come a long way from the old days when the paper was
written, edited, typeset and ultimately printed in one building with the journalists working on the
upper floors and the printing presses going on the ground floor. These days the editor, subeditors
and journalists who put the paper together are likely to find them-selves in a totally different
building or maybe even in a different city. This is the situation which now prevails in Sydney. The
daily paper is compiled at the editorial headquarters, known as the prepress centre, in the heart of
the city, but printed far away in the suburbs at the printing centre. Here human beings are in the
minority as much of the work is done by automated machines controlled by computers.
B
Once the finished newspaper has been created for the next mornings edition, all the pages are
transmitted electronically from the prepress centre to the printing centre. The system of
transmission is an update on the sophisticated page facsimile system already in use on many
other newspapers. An image-setter at the printing centre delivers the pages as film. Each page
takes less than a minute to produce, although for colour pages four versions, once each for black,
cyan, magenta and yellow are sent. The pages are then processed into photographic negatives
and the film is used to produce aluminum printing plates ready for the presses.
C
A procession of automated vehicles is busy at the new printing centre where the Sydney Morning
Herald is printed each day. With lights flashing and warning horns honking, the robots (to give
them their correct name, the LGVs or laser guided vehicles) look for all the world like enthusiastic
machines from a science fiction movie, as they follow their own random paths around the plant
busily getting on with their jobs.
Automation of this kind is now standard in all modern newspaper plants. The robots can detect
unauthorized personnel and alert security staff immediately if they find an intruder; not
surprisingly, tall tales are already being told about the machines starting to take on personalities
of their own.
D
The robots principal job, however, is to shift the newsprint (the printing paper) that arrives at the
plant in huge reels and emerges at the other end sometime later as newspapers. Once the size of
the days paper and the publishing order are determined at head office, the information is
punched into the computer and the LGVs are programmed to go about their work. The LGVs
collect the appropriate size paper reels and take them where they have to go. When the press
needs another reel its computer alerts the LGV system. The Sydney LGVs move busily around
the press room fulfilling their two key functions to collect reels of newsprint either from the reel
stripping stations, or from the racked supplies in the newsprint storage area. At the stripping
station the tough wrapping that helps to protect a reel of paper from rough handling is removed.
Any damaged paper is peeled off and the reel is then weighed.
E
Then one of the four paster robots moves in. Specifically designed for the job, it rims the paper
neatly and prepares the reel for the press. If required the reel can be loaded directly onto the
press; if not needed immediately, an LGV takes it to the storage area. When the press computer
calls for a reel, an LGV takes it to the reel loading area of the presses. It lifts the reel into the
loading position and places it in the correct spot with complete accuracy. As each reel is used up,
the press drops the heavy cardboard core into a waste bin. When the bin is full, another LGV
collects it and deposits the cores into a shredder for recycling.
F
The LGVs move at walking speed. Should anyone step in front of one or get too close, sensors
stop the vehicle until the path is clear. The company has chosen a laser guide function system for
the vehicles because, as the project development manager says The beauty of it is that if you
want to change the routes, you can work out a new route on your computer and lay it down for
them to follow. When an LGVs batteries run low, it will take itself off line and go to the nearest
battery maintenance point for replacement batteries. And all this is achieved with absolute
minimum human input and a much reduced risk of injury to people working in the printing centers.
G
The question newspaper workers must now ask, however is, how long will it be before the robots
are writing the newspapers as well as running the printing centre, churning out the latest edition
every morning?
Questions 33 - 40
Complete the flow-chart below.
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the text for each answer.
Write your answers in boxes 33-40 on your answer sheet.
The Production Process

The newspaper is compiled at the editorial headquarters by the journalists.
The final version of the text is 33 . to the printing centre.
The pages arrive by facsimile.
The pages are converted into 34
35 are made for use in the printing presses.
The LGVs are 36 by computer.

The LGVs collect the reels of paper.
The LGVs remove the 37 from the reel.
The reel is 38
The reel is trimmed and prepared by the 39
The reel is taken to the press.
The reel is taken to the 40
ANSWERS
33
transmitted (electronically)
34
(photographic) film/negative(s)
35
(aluminum) printing plates
36
programmed
37
damaged paper/wrapping
38
weighed
39
paster robot(s)
40
storage area
Words in brackets are optional - they are correct, but not necessary. Alternative answers are
separated by a slash (/).
General Training Reading sample task - Identifying information

Read the text below and answer Questions 1-8.
London to Brighton Bike Ride

The start
The bike ride starts at Clapham Common tube station.
Your Start Time is indicated by the colour of your body number in this pack. It is also
printed on the address label of the envelope. Please arrive no earlier than 30 minutes
before that time.
We allocate an equal number of cyclists for each Start Time to ensure a steady flow.
Please keep to the time you've been given so we can keep to our schedule and avoid
delaying other riders and prevent 'bunching' further down the route.
An Information Point, toilets and refreshment stands will be open from very early in the
day.
Ride carefully
We put together as many facilities as possible to help ensure you have a trouble free
day. But we also rely on you to ride safely and with due consideration for other
cyclists and road users. Although many roads are closed to oncoming traffic, this is not
always the case and you should be aware of the possibility that there could be vehicles coming
in the opposite direction. Please do not attempt reckless overtaking whilst riding - remember it
is NOT a race.
Follow all instructions
Every effort is made to ensure that the route is well signed and marshaled. Please obey all
directions from police and marshals on the route. If you hear a motorcycle marshal blow his/her
whistle three times, move left.
Wear a helmet
Every year we are delighted to see more riders wearing protective helmets, but we would like
to see every cyclist on the ride wearing one. More than half of reported injuries in cycling
accidents are to the head, and a helmet gives the best protection when the head hits the
ground.
Attracting assistance
If you have an accident, asks a marshal for help; they are in contact with the support/emergency
services. To call for help from our motorcycle marshals, give a 'thumbs down' signal. The
marshal will do all he/she can to help, providing he/she is not already going to a more
serious accident. If a motorcycle marshal slows down to help you, but you have just
stopped for a rest and don't need help, please give a 'thumbs up' signal and he/she will carry on.
Remember - thumbs down means 'I need help'.
In case of breakdown
Refer to your route map and make your way to a Mechanics Point. Mechanical assistance is free
when you show your Rider Identity Card; you just pay for the parts.
Refreshment stops
Look out for these along the route. Most are organized by voluntary clubs and their prices give
you real value for money. They are also raising money for their local communities and the
British Heart Foundation, so please give them your support.
Rain or shine - be prepared

In the event of very bad weather, watch out for signs to wet weather stations en route. Good
waterproofs, like a cycle cape, are essential. Our first aid staff can only supply bin liners and
by the time you get one you may be very wet. However, the English summer is
unpredictable - it may also be hot, so don't forget the sun protection cream as well!
If you have to drop out
We will try to pick up your bike for you on the day. Call Bike Events (01225 310859) no more
than two weeks after the ride to arrange collection. Sorry, we cannot guarantee this service nor
can we accept liability for any loss or damage to your bike. Bike Events will hold your bike for
three months, after which it may be disposed of. You will be charged for all costs incurred in
returning your cycle.
Questions 1 - 8
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text?
In boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet, write
TRUE
if the statement agrees with the information
FALSE
if the statement contradicts the information
NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
You should not arrive more than half an hour before your allocated starting time.
Your Rider Identity Card will be sent to you before the event.
Some roads may have normal traffic flow on them.
Helmets are compulsory for all participants.
Refreshments are free to all participants during the ride.
If you need a rest you must get off the road.
First aid staff can provide cycle capes.
Bike Events will charge you for the return of your bike.
ANSWERS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
TRUE
NOT GIVEN
TRUE
FALSE
FALSE
NOT GIVEN
FALSE
TRUE
General Training Reading sample task - Matching information
SECTION 1
Questions 1 - 8
Questions 1 - 8
Look at the five advertisements, A-E.
Which advertisement mentions the following?
Write the correct letter, A-E, in boxes 1-8 on your answer sheet.
NB You may use any letter more than once.
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
up-to-date teaching systems

that the institution has been established for a significant time
examination classes
that arrangements can be made for activities outside class
the availability of courses for school students
language teaching for special purposes
a wide variety of language choices
evening classes
ANSWERS
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
B
E
E
C
D
B
A
D
General Training Reading sample task - Matching features

[Note: This is an extract from a General Training Reading text on the subject of the history of
cinema. The text preceding this extract gave a general overview.]
Although French, German, American and British pioneers have all been credited with the
invention of cinema, the British and the Germans played a relatively small role in its
worldwide exploitation. It was above all the French, followed closely by the Americans, who were
the most passionate exporters of the new invention, helping to start cinema in China, Japan,
Latin America and Russia. In terms of artistic development it was again the French and the
Americans who took the lead, though in the years before the First World War, Italy, Denmark and
Russia also played a part.
In the end it was the United States that was to become, and remain, the largest single
market for films. By protecting their own market and pursuing a vigorous export policy,
the Americans achieved a dominant position on the world market by the start of the First
World War. The centre of filmmaking had moved westwards, to Hollywood, and it was
films from these new Hollywood studios that flooded onto the worlds film markets in the
years after the First World War, and have done so ever since. Faced with total
Hollywood domination, few film industries proved competitive. The Italian industry,
which had pioneered the feature film with spectacular films like Quo Vadis? (1913) and
Cabiria (1914), almost collapsed. In Scandinavia, the Swedish cinema had a brief
period of glory, notably with powerful epic films and comedies. Even the French cinema found
itself in a difficult position. In Europe, only Germany proved industrially capable, while in the new
Soviet Union and in Japan, the development of the cinema took place in conditions of
commercial isolation.
Hollywood took the lead artistically as well as industrially. Hollywood films appealed
because they had better constructed narratives, their special effects were more
impressive, and the star system added a new dimension to screen acting. If Hollywood
did not have enough of its own resources, it had a great deal of money to buy up artists
and technical innovations from Europe to ensure its continued dominance over present or future
competition.
From early cinema, it was only American slapstick comedy that successfully developed
in both short and feature format. However, during this Silent Film era, animation,
comedy, serials and dramatic features continued to thrive, along with factual films or
documentaries, which acquired an increasing distinctiveness as the period progressed. It
was also at this time that the avant-garde film first achieved commercial success, this
time thanks almost exclusively to the French and the occasional German film.
Of the countries which developed and maintained distinctive national cinemas in the
silent period, the most important were France, Germany and the Soviet Union. Of these,
the French displayed the most continuity, in spite of the war and post-war economic
uncertainties. The German cinema, relatively insignificant in the pre-war years, exploded
on to the world scene after 1919. Yet even they were both overshadowed by the Soviets
after the 1917 Revolution. They turned their back on the past, leaving the style of the
pre-war Russian cinema to the migrs who fled westwards to escape the Revolution.
The other countries whose cinemas changed dramatically are: Britain, which had an interesting
but undistinguished history in the silent period; Italy, which had a brief
moment of international fame just before the war; the Scandinavian countries,
particularly Denmark, which played a role in the development of silent cinema quite out of
proportion to their small population; and Japan, where a cinema developed based primarily on
traditional theatrical and, to a lesser extent, other art forms and only
gradually adapted to western influence.
Questions 34 - 40
Look at the following statements (Questions 34-40) and the list of countries below. Match each
statement with the correct country, A-J.
Write the correct letter, A-J, in boxes 34-40 on your answer sheet.
NB You may use any letter more than once.
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
It helped other countries develop their own film industry.

It was the biggest producer of films.
It was first to develop the 'feature' film.
It was responsible for creating stars.
It made the most money from 'avantgarde' films.
It made movies based more on its own culture than outside influences.
It had a great influence on silent movies, despite its size.
ANSWERS
34
35
36
37
38
39
40
A
C
H
C
A
F
D
10
General Training Reading sample task - Matching headings
Questions 27 - 32
The text has seven paragraphs, A-G.
Choose the correct heading for paragraphs A, B and D-G from the list of headings below.
Write the correct number, i-ix, in boxes 27-32 on your answer sheet.
27
Paragraph A
28
Paragraph B
Example
Paragraph C
29
Paragraph D
30
Paragraph E
31
Paragraph F
32
Paragraph G
ix
Look Story about ROBOT AT WORK above
ANSWERS
27
28
vii
29
iv
30
31
viii
32
iii
General Training Reading sample task - Multiple choice
11
[Note: This is an extract from a General Training Reading text on the subject of coal. The text
preceding this extract catalogued the general belief that extracting and using coal is bad for the
environment.]
Greenhouse gases arise from a wide range of sources and their increasing concentration is
largely related to the compound effects of increased population, improved living standards and
changes in lifestyle. From a current base of 5 billion, the United Nations predicts that the global
population may stabilize in the twenty-first century between 8 and 14 billion, with more than 90
per cent of the projected increase taking place in the worlds developing nations. The associated
activities to support that growth, particularly to produce the required energy and food, will cause
further increases in greenhouse gas emissions. The challenge, therefore, is to attain a
sustainable balance between population, economic growth and the environment.
The major greenhouse gas emissions from human activities are carbon dioxide (CO2), methane
and nitrous oxide. Chlorofluorocarbons (CFCs) are the only major contributor to the greenhouse
effect that does not occur naturally, coming from such sources as refrigeration, plastics and
manufacture. Coals total contribution to greenhouse gas emissions is thought to be about 18
per cent, with about half of this coming from electricity generation.
The worldwide coal industry allocates extensive resources to researching and developing new
technologies and ways of capturing greenhouse gases. Efficiencies are likely to be improved
dramatically, and hence CO2 emissions reduced, through combustion and gasification
techniques which are now at pilot and demonstration stages.
Clean coal is another avenue for improving fuel conversion efficiency. Investigations are under
way into super-clean coal (35 per cent ash) and ultraclean coal (less than 1 per cent ash).
Super-clean coal has the potential to enhance the combustion efficiency of conventional
pulverized fuel power plants. Ultraclean coal will enable coal to be used in advanced power
systems such as coal-fired gas turbines which, when operated in combined cycle, have the
potential to achieve much greater efficiencies.
Defendants of mining point out that, environmentally, coal mining has two important factors in its
favor. It makes only temporary use of the land and produces no toxic chemical wastes. By
carefully preplanning projects, implementing pollution control measures, monitoring the effects of
mining and rehabilitating mined areas, the coal industry minimizes the impact on the
neighboring community, the immediate environment and long-term land capability.
Dust levels are controlled by spraying roads and stockpiles, and water pollution is controlled by
carefully separating clean water runoff from runoff which contains sediments or salt from mine
workings. The latter is treated and reused for dust suppression. Noise is controlled by modifying
equipment and by using insulation and sound enclosures around machinery.
Since mining activities represent only a temporary use of the land, extensive rehabilitation
measures are adopted to ensure that land capability after mining meets agreed and appropriate
standards which, in some cases, are superior to the lands pre-mining condition. Where the
mining is underground, the surface area can be simultaneously used for forests, cattle grazing
and crop rising, or even reservoirs and urban development, with little or no disruption to the
existing land use. In all cases, mining is subject to stringent controls and approvals processes.
12
Questions 1 - 5
Choose the correct letter, A, B, C or D.
1
The global increase in greenhouse gases has been attributed to

A
industrial pollution in developing countries.
B
coal mining and electricity generation.
C
reduced rainfall in many parts of the world.
D
trends in population and lifestyle.
The proportion of all greenhouse gases created by coal is approximately

A
14 per cent.
B
18 per cent.
C
27 per cent.
D
90 per cent.
Current research aims to increase the energy-producing efficiency of coal by

A
B
C
D
burning it at a lower temperature.

developing new gasification techniques.
extracting CO2 from it.
recycling greenhouse gases.
Compared with ordinary coal, new, clean coals may generate power
A
more cleanly and more efficiently.
B
more cleanly but less efficiently.
C
more cleanly but at higher cost.
D
more cleanly but much more slowly.
To control dust at mine sites, mining companies often use

A
chemicals which may be toxic.
B
topsoil taken from the site before mining.
C
fresh water from nearby dams.
D
runoff water containing sediments.
Choose the most suitable title for the text from the list below. Write the correct letter, A, B, C
or D, in box 6 on your answer sheet.
A
Pollution control in coal mining
B
The greenhouse effect
C
The coal industry and the environment
D
Sustainable population growth
ANSWERS
1
3
5
D
B
D
2
4
6
B
A
C
13
General Training Reading sample task - Sentence completion

[Note: This is an extract from a General Training Reading text on the subject of understanding
bee behavior. The text preceding this extract described Karl von Frisch's experiments and his
conclusions about two bee dances.]
At first, von Frisch thought the bees were responding only to the scent of the food. But what did
the third dance mean? And if bees were responding only to the scent, how could they also sniff
down food hundreds of meters away from the hive*, food which was sometimes downwind? On
a hunch, he started gradually moving the feeding dish further and further away and noticed as
he did so that the dances of the returning scout bees also started changing. If he placed the
feeding dish over nine meters away, the second type of dance, the sickle version, came into
play. But once he moved it past 36 metres, the scouts would then start dancing the third,
quite different, waggle dance.
The measurement of the actual distance too, he concluded, was precise. For example, a feeding
dish 300 metres away was indicated by 15 complete runs through the pattern in 30 seconds.
When the dish was moved to 60 metres away, the number dropped to eleven.
Von Frisch noted something further. When the scout bees came home to tell their sisters about
the food source, sometimes they would dance outside on the horizontal entrance platform of the
hive, and sometimes on the vertical wall inside. And, depending on where they danced, the
straight portion of the waggle dance would point in different directions. The outside dance was
fairly easy to decode: the straight portion of the dance pointed directly to the food source, so the
bees would merely have to decode the distance message and fly off in that direction to find their
food.
But by studying the dance on the inner wall of the hive, von Frisch discovered a remarkable
method which the dancer used to tell her sisters the direction of the food in relation to the sun.
When inside the hive, the dancer cannot use the sun, so she uses gravity instead. The direction
of the sun is represented by the top of the hive wall. If she runs straight up, this means that the
feeding place is in the same direction as the sun. However, if, for example, the feeding place is
40 to the left of the sun, then the dancer would run 40 to the left of the vertical line. This was to
be the first of von Frischs remarkable discoveries. Soon he would also discover a number of
other remarkable facts about how bees communicate and, in doing so, revolutionize the study of
animal behavior generally.
* Hive - a house for bees; the place where they build a nest and live
Questions 38 - 40
Complete the sentences below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the text for each
answer. Write your answers in boxes 38-40 on your answer sheet.
38
Von Frisch discovered the difference between dance types by changing

the position of the Feeding Dish
39
The dance outside the hive points in the direction of the.. Food (Source)
40
The angle of the dance from the vertical shows the angle of the food from the..Sun
Words in brackets are optional - they are correct, but not necessary.
General Training Reading sample task - Short-answer questions
14
Questions 4 - 8
Answer the questions below.
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the text for each
answer.
4
5
6
7
8
What has been found in some Fancy Foods products?

Where can you find the batch number on the jars?
How much will you receive for an opened jar of contaminated Chicken Curry?
If you have eaten Chicken Curry from a jar with one of the batch numbers listed, whom
should you contact?
What is the maximum reward Fancy Foods is offering for information about who
contaminated their product?
ANSWERS
4
6
8
pieces of metal
$5
$50,000
5
7
(on) the bottom

(the) Retailing Manager
Words in brackets are optional - they are correct, but not necessary.
IELTS | General Training Writing sample
General Training Writing sample task - Task 1
Task 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:
Dear Sir or Madam,
General Training Writing sample task - Task 2
Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Write at least 250 words.
Sample Candidate Writing Scripts and Examiner Comments

The General Training Writing Module consists of two tasks, Task 1 and Task 2. Each task is
assessed independently.
The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1.
Detailed performance descriptors have been developed which describe written performance
at the 9 IELTS bands. These descriptors apply to both the Academic and General Training
Modules.
Task 1 scripts are assessed on the following criteria:
Task Achievement
Coherence and Cohesion
Lexical Resource
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
Task 2 scripts are assessed on the following criteria:
Task Response
Lexical Resource
Candidates should note that scripts will be penalized if they are
a) under the minimum word length,
b) partly or wholly plagiarized,
c) not written as full, connected text (e.g. using bullet
points in any part of the response, or note form, is not appropriate, etc.).
Task 1
Task Achievement
This criterion assesses how appropriately, accurately and relevantly the response fulfills the
requirements set out in the task, using the minimum of 150 words.
Task 1 is also a writing task with a largely predictable output in that each task sets out the
context and purpose of the letter and the functions the candidate should cover in order to
achieve this purpose.
This criterion is concerned with the overall clarity and fluency of the message: how the
response organizes and links information, ideas and language. Coherence refers
to the linking of ideas through logical sequencing. Cohesion refers to the varied and appropriate
use of cohesive devices (for example, logical connectors, pronouns and conjunctions) to
assist in making the conceptual and referential relationships between and within sentences
clear.
Lexical Resource
This criterion refers to the range of vocabulary the candidate has used and the accuracy and
appropriacy of that use in terms of the specific task.

This criterion refers to the range and accurate use of the candidates grammatical resource as
manifested in the candidates writing at sentence level.
Task 2
Task Response
Task 2 requires the candidates to formulate and develop a position in relation to a given prompt
in the form of a question or statement. Ideas should be supported by evidence, and examples
may be drawn from the candidates own experience. Responses must be at least 250
words in length.
Writing scripts are marked by trained and certificated IELTS examiners. Scores may be
reported as whole bands or half-bands.
On the next 6 pages you will find candidates answers to two sample Writing tests. There are
two answers for each Writing task. Each answer has been awarded a band score and is
accompanied by an examiner comment on the candidates performance for that task.
The examiners guidelines for marking the Writing scripts are very detailed. There are
many different ways a candidate may achieve a particular band score. The candidates answers
that follow should not be regarded as definitive examples of any particular band score.
Please refer to the public band descriptors for Writing.
Sample Script A: General Training Writing Sample Task 1
Examiner comment: Band 5
The answer is below the word limit and there is some repetition of the task rubric. (Length
is a common problem in General Training scripts.) Answers that are short lose marks because
of inadequate content and may also lose marks because there is insufficient material in the
answer for the examiner to give credit for accuracy and coherence. Despite these problems, the
introduction to the letter is appropriate and the purpose of the writer is clear. The points are not
always linked together well and punctuation is sometimes faulty. The sentences are kept quite
simple and mistakes occur as soon as more complex structures are attempted.
Sample Script B: General Training Writing Sample Task 1
This answer is also short. Although ideas are often provided in the task rubric, candidates
are at liberty to include some of their own ideas in their answers. In this case, the candidate
has attempted to incorporate some original material. The answer reads quite fluently, is well
organized and there is good use of conjunctions to link points. There are some grammatical
errors but these do not affect the reader greatly and there is evidence of some more complex
sentence structures.
Sample Script A: General Training Writing Sample Task 2
There are quite a lot relevant ideas in the answer but they are not always well supported and
sometimes they are unclear. There are some areas in the answer where the organisation
becomes weak and the reader finds the message difficult to follow. Nevertheless, the writers
view is apparent and there is a logical flow to the points given. There are a lot of mistakes in the
answer and some parts, such as the conclusion, are very hard to follow because of these errors.
Although there is some appropriate vocabulary, sentence control is very weak. These problems
are made worse by the poor correcting which sometimes makes words unreadable.
Sample Script B: General Training Writing Sample Task 2
This is a very wellorganised script which contains a lot of well-supported arguments and
analyses the topic from different angles. The ideas follow each other well and there is a very
honest conclusion. The answer is easy to read. There are some areas where the expression is
clumsy but this makes little difference to the overall flow of the answer. There are minor errors in
spelling and structure.
IELTS | General Training Speaking sample
Speaking sample task - Part 1

Part 1 Introduction and interview
[This part of the test begins with the examiner introducing himself or herself and checking the
candidates identification. It then continues as an interview.]
Lets talk about your home town or village.
What kind of place is it?

Whats the most interesting part of your town/village?
What kind of jobs do the people in your town/village do?
Would you say its a good place to live? (Why?)
Lets move on to talk about accommodation.
Tell me about the kind of accommodation you live in?

How long have you lived there?
What do you like about living there?
What sort of accommodation would you most like to live in?
TRANSCRIPT
Examiner:
Now, in this first part, Id like to ask you some more questions about yourself, OK?
Lets talk about your home town or village. What kind of place is it?
Candidate:
Its quite a small village, about 20km from Zurich. And its very quiet. And we have
only little ... two little shops because most of the people work in Zurich or are
orientated to the city.
Examiner:
Whats the most interesting part of this place ... village?
Candidate:
On the top of a hill we have a little castle which is very old and quite well known in
Switzerland.
Examiner:
What kind of jobs do people in the village do?
Candidate:
We have some farmers in the village as well as people who work in Zurich as
bankers or journalists or there are also teachers and some doctors, some
medicines.
Examiner:
Would you say its a good place to live?
Candidate:
Yes. Although it is very quiet, it is people are friendly and I would say it is a good
place to live there, yes.
Examiner:
Lets move on to talk about accommodation. Tell me about the kind of

accommodation you live in...?

Part 2 - Individual long turn
Candidate Task Card
You will have to talk about the topic for 1 to 2 minutes.

You have one minute to think about what you're going to say. You can make some notes to help
you if you wish.
Rounding off questions
Is it valuable in terms of money?
Would it be easy to replace?
TRANSCRIPT
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Alright? Remember you have one to two minutes for this, so dont worry if I stop
you. Ill tell you when the time is up.
OK
Can you start speaking now, please?
Yes. One of the most important things I have is my piano because I
like playing the piano. I got it from my parents to my twelve birthday,
so I have it for about nine years, and the reason why it is so important
for me is that I can go into another world when Im playing piano. I can
forget whats around me and what ... I can forget my problems and this
is sometimes quite good for a few minutes. Or I can play to relax or
just, yes to to relax and to think of something completely different.
Thank you. Would it be easy to replace this, this piano?
Yes, I think it wouldnt be that big problem but I like my piano as it is because I
have it from my parents, its some kind unique for me.

Part 3 - Two-way discussion
Lets consider first of all how peoples values have changed.
What kind of things give status to people in your country?

Have things changed since your parents time?
Finally, lets talk about the role of advertising.
Do you think advertising influences what people buy?
TRANSCRIPT
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Candidate:
Examiner:
Weve been talking about things we own. Id like to discuss with you one or two
more general questions relating to this topic. First, lets consider values and the
way they can change. In Switzerland, what kind of possessions do you think give
status to people?
The first thing which comes in my mind is the car. Yes, because lots of people like
to have posh cars or expensive cars to show their status, their place in the society.
Is that a new development?
No, I think it isnt.
People have thought like that for quite a long time?
Yes. Another thing is probably the clothing. It starts already when you are young.
When the children go to school they want to have posh labels on their jumpers or
good shoes.
What do you think of this way of thinking, that I need to have a car or certain
clothes to show my status?
Probably its sometimes a replacement for something you dont have, so if your
wife has left you or your girlfriend, you just buy some new, I dont know, new
watches or new clothes to make you satisfied again.
You dont think of it as a healthy way of thinking?
Its probably not honest to yourself. You can understand what I mean?
Yes. And do you think this will change? In the future, will cars and designer clothes
be status symbols in the same way?
Im sure that clothes will be ... that the thing with the clothes will be the same. Im
not so sure about the cars because cars cause lots of environmental problems and
probably in some years, a few years, this will change because its not reasonable
to drive a car anymore.
Can you tell me a little bit more about that? ...
IELTS | General Training Listening sample
Listening sample task - Form completion (to be used with IELTS Listening Recording 1)
SECTION 1
Questions 1 - 8
Complete the form below.
Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
PACKHAMS SHIPPING AGENCY - customer quotation form

Example
K.enya
Country of destination:
Jacob 1
Name:
Address to be collected from:
Bristol
Town:
Postcode:
College, Downlands Rd
Size of container:
Length:
1.5m
Width: 4
Contents:
clothes
6
7
Total estimated value: 8
Height: 5
Listening sample task - Form completion (to be used with IELTS Listening Recording 1)
Tape-script for IELTS Listening Recording 1
You will hear a telephone conversation between a customer and an agent at a company which
ships large boxes overseas.
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
Good morning Packhams Shipping Agents. Can I help you?

Oh yes, Im ringing to make enquiries about sending a large box, a container, back
home to Kenya from the UK.
Yes, of course. Would you like me to try and find some quotations for you?
Yes, thatd be great. Thank you.
Well first of all, I need a few details from you.
Fine.
Can I take your name?
Its Jacob Mkere.
Can you spell your surname, please?
Yes, its M-K-E-R-E.
Is that M for mother?
Yes.
Thank you, and you say that you will be sending the box to Kenya?
Thats right.
And where would you like the box picked up from?
From college, if possible.
Yes, of course. Ill take down the address now.
Its Westall College.
Is that W-E-S-T-A-L-L?
Yes ... college.
Westall College. And wheres that?
Its Downlands Road, in Bristol.
Oh yes, I know it. And the post-code?
Its BS8 9PU.
Right ... and I need to know the size.
Yes, Ive measured it carefully and its 1.5m long...
Right.
0.75m wide...
OK.
And its 0.5m high or deep.
Great. So Ill calculate the volume in a moment and get some quotes for that. But first
can you tell me, you know, very generally, what will be in the box?
Yes therere mostly clothes.
OK. [writing down]
And theres some books.
A
B
A
B
OK. Good. Um ... Anything else?

Yes, therere also some toys.
OK and what is the total value, do you think, of the contents?
Well the main costs are the clothes and the books - theyll be about 1500 but then the
toys are about another two hundred - so Id put down 1700.
Listening sample task - Multiple choice (to be used with IELTS Listening Recording 2)
SECTION 1
Questions 9 and 10
9
Choose the correct letter, A, B or C.
Type of insurance chosen

A
B
C
10
Economy
Standard
Premium
Customer wants goods delivered to

A
B
C
port
home
depot
Tapescript for IELTS Listening Recording 2

(A customer has been arranging with a shipping agent to send a large box overseas. This is the
last part of the conversation.)
A
B
A
B
A
B
A
B
OK right. Now obviously insurance is an important thing to consider and our companies
are able to offer very good rates in a number of different all-inclusive packages.
Sorry, could you explain a bit more?
Yes, sorry, um. Theres really three rates according to quality of insurance cover theres the highest comprehensive cover which is Premium rate, then theres standard
rate and then theres economy rate. That one will only cover the cost of the contents
second hand.
Oh Ive been stung before with economy insurance so Ill go for the highest.
Mhhm and can I just check would you want home delivery or to a local depot or would
you want to pick it up at the nearest port?
The portd be fine - Ive got transport that end.
Fine and will you be paying by credit card?
Can I pay by cheque?
ANSWERS:
9
10
Listening sample task - Short-answer questions (to be used with IELTS Listening
Recording 3)
SECTION 2
Questions 11 - 16
Answer the questions below.
Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.
What TWO factors can make social contact in a foreign country difficult?
11 ....................................................
12 ....................................................
Which types of community group does the speaker give examples of?
theatre
13 ....................................................
14 ....................................................
In which TWO places can information about community activities be found?
15 ....................................................
16 ....................................................
Tapescript
You will hear an extract from a talk given to a group who are going to stay in the UK.
Good evening, and welcome to the British Council. My name is John Parker and Ive
been asked to talk to you briefly about certain aspects of life in the UK before you
actually go there. So I'm going to talk first about the best ways of making social
contacts there. Now you might be wondering why it should be necessary. After all,
we meet people all the time. But when youre living in a foreign country it can be
more difficult, not just because of the language, but because customs may be
different.
If youre going to work in the UK you will probably be living in private accommodation,
so it wont be quite so easy to meet people. But there are still things that you can do
to help yourself. First of all, you can get involved in activities in your local community,
join a group of some kind. For example, youll probably find that there are theatre
groups who might be looking for actors, set designers and so on, or if you play an
instrument you could join music groups in your area. Or if you like the idea of finding
out about local history therell be a group for that too. These are just examples. And
the best places to get information about things like this are either the town hall or the
public library. Libraries in the UK perform quite a broad range of functions nowadays
- theyre not just confined to lending books, although thats their main role of course.
ANSWERS:
11 & 12
in either order
language
customs
13 & 14
in either order
music (groups)
local history (groups)
15 & 16
in either order
(the) (public) library/libraries (the) town hall
Words in brackets are optional - they are correct, but not necessary. Alternative answers are
separated by a slash (/).
Listening sample task - Sentence completion (to be used with IELTS

Listening Recording 4)
SECTION 3
Questions 27 - 30
Complete the sentences below.
Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS for each answer.

Studying with the Open University demanded a great deal of 27
Studying and working at the same time improved Rachels 28 skills.
It was helpful that the course was structured in 29 . She enjoyed meeting other
students at 30
Tapescript for IELTS Listening Recording 4
Two friends, Rachel and Paul, are discussing studying with the Open University. Rachel has
already done a course at the university, but Paul has not. The extract relating to these questions
comes from the last part of the recording.
Paul
Rachel
Paul
Rachel
Paul
Rachel
Paul
Rachel
The other thing I wanted to ask you was, did you find it hard, studying with the Open
University?
You mean, because youre studying on your own, most of the time?
Mm.
Well it took me a while to get used to it. I found I needed to maintain a high level of
motivation, because its so different from school. Theres no-one saying, Why havent
you written your assignment yet?' and that sort of thing.
Oh dear.
Youll learn it, Paul. Another thing was that I got very good at time-management
because I had to fit time for studying round a full-time job.
Well Im hoping to change to working part-time, so thatll help.
What makes it easier is that the degree is made up of modules, so you can take time
off between them if you need to. It isnt like a traditional three-or four-year course,
where youve got to do the whole thing of it in one go.
Paul
Rachel
Paul
Thats good, because Id like to spend six months travelling next year.
Huh, its all right for some. Then even though youre mostly studying at home,
remember youve got tutors to help you, and from time to time there are summer
schools. They usually last a week. Theyre great, because you meet all the other
people struggling with the same things as you. Ive made some really good friends that
way.
Sounds good. So how do I apply?
ANSWERS:
27
28
29
30
motivation
time (-) management
modules
summer school(s)
Listening sample task - Matching (example 1)

SECTION 3
Questions 21 - 25
What does Jack tell his tutor about each of the following course options?
A
He'll definitely do it.
B
He may or may not do it.
C
He won't do it.
Write the correct letter, A, B or C next to questions 21- 25. You may choose any letter more than
once.
21
22
23
24
25
Media Studies
Women and Power
Culture and Society
Identity and Popular Culture
Introduction to Cultural Theory
Tapescript
(Note: There is no Listening recording for this tapescript.)
You will hear a Communication Studies student talking to his tutor about optional courses for the
next semester.
Dr Ray
Jack
Come in. Oh hello Alan. Have a seat. Right ... you said you wanted to see me to talk
about your options next semester?
That's right. We have to decide by the end of next week. Really, I'd like to do all five
options but we have to choose two, don't we.
Dr Ray
Yes, but the choice depends on your major to some extent. You're majoring in
Communication Studies, aren't you?
That's right.
So for example the Media Studies Option will cover quite a lot of the same area you
did in the core module on mass communications this semester - the development of
the media through the last two centuries, in relation to political and social issues.
Mmm. Well that was interesting, but Ive decided I'd rather do something completely
new. There's a Women's Studies option, isn't there?
Yes, 'Women and Power' - again it has a historical focus, it aims to contextualize
women's studies by looking at the legal and social situation in the nineteenth and
early twentieth centuries
So it would be useful if I intended to specialise in women's studies ... but I'm not sure
I do actually.
Well, it might still be useful to give you an idea of the issues involved. It's taught by Dr
Steed.
Oh, really? I'll sign up for that, then. What about the option on Culture and Society?
That addresses the historical debate on the place of culture since the Industrial
Revolution in Britain.
So a historical focus again...
Do I get the message you're not so keen on history?
Well, it's just we seem to have done quite a lot this semester anyway I'll think
about that one.
If you're interested in a course focusing on current issues there's the option on
Identity and Popular Culture - that approaches the subject through things like
contemporary film, adverts, soap operas and so on.
Oh? That sounds interesting. Can you tell me who runs it?
Well, it's normally Dr Stevens but he's on sabbatical next semester, so I'm not sure
who'll be running it. It should be decided by next week though.
Right, well I might wait until then to decide ... And the last option is Introduction to
Cultural Theory, isn't it. I'm quite interested in that too - I was talking to one of the
second year students, and she said it was really useful, it made a lot of things fall
into place.
Yes, but in fact in your major, you'll have covered a lot of that already in
Communications 102, so that might be less useful than some of the others.
Oh, I'll forget about that one, then.
Now while you're here, we could also discuss how you're getting on with your Core
Module assignment ...
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
Jack
Dr Ray
ANSWERS:
21
23
25
C
B
C
22
24
A
B
Listening sample task - Matching (example 2)

SECTION 1
Questions 1 - 4
Which hotel matches each description?
Choose your answers from the box and write the correct letter A-E next to questions 1-4.
Tapescript
You will hear a man talking to an official at a tourist information office.
Official
Man
Official
Man
Official
Man
Official
Man
Official
Can I help you?

Yes, I was wanting somewhere to stay for a few days - a four or five star hotel.
Can you tell me something about the possibilities?
OK, right, well there are five hotels that might interest you. Were you wanting a
city centre location, or would you be interested in something a bit further out?
Well, I do have a car so I could go for either.
Well, there are three central hotels in the range you're looking for - there's Carlton
House and The Imperial, they're both near the main square, but if you've got your
own transport you might be interested in the Royal Oak - thats out in the country,
about ten kilometers away, very peaceful. Then there's the Bridge hotel and the
Majestic - they're both in town but not in the centre, they're out on the airport
road.
Mmm that might be a bit far out actually. OK, now the other two you mentioned, in
the city centre. Can you tell me a bit about them?
Well, they're both excellent hotels. If you want something with a bit of character,
Carlton House is quite unusual - it's a very old building that was originally a large
private house, it was bought by the Vannis chain and they completely refurbished
it - they took their first guests just a few months ago but it's already got an
excellent reputation. That's a five star hotel. Or there's the Imperial, which is a
much more modern building. That's also has its own gym and it also has internet
connection and meetings rooms - it's used for conferences and corporate events
as well as private guests. That's five star as well.
Does it have a swimming pool as well as a gym?
No - the Royal Oak has an outdoor pool, which is lovely in the summer, but the
Man
only hotel with an indoor pool is the Bridge Hotel. It doesn't have a gym though.
The Majestic is planning to build a swimming pool and a fitness centre, but it's not
finished yet.
I see. Well, I think I'll probably go for one of the city centre hotels.
ANSWERS:
1
3
E
C
2
4
B
A
Listening sample task - Plan/map/diagram labeling

SECTION 2
Questions 11-15
Label the plan below.
Choose FIVE answers from the box and write the correct letters A-I next to questions 11-15.
10
Tapescript
You will hear the librarian of a new town library talking to a group of people who are visiting the
library.
OK everyone. So here we are at the entrance to the town library. My name is Ann, and I'm the
chief librarian here, and you'll usually find me at the desk just by the main entrance here. So I'd
like to tell you a bit about the way the library is organized, and what you'll find where and you
should all have a plan in front of you. Well, as you see my desk is just on your right as you go in,
and opposite this the first room on your left has an excellent collection of reference books and is
also a place where people can read or study peacefully. Just beyond the librarian's desk on the
right is a room where we have up to date periodicals such as newspapers and magazines and
this room also has a photocopier in case you want to copy any of the articles. If you carry straight
on you'll come into a large room and this is the main library area. There is fiction in the shelves
on the left, and non-fiction materials on your right, and on the shelves on the far wall there is an
excellent collection of books relating to local history. We're hoping to add a section on local
tourist attractions too, later in the year. Through the far door in the library just past the fiction
shelves is a seminar room, and that can be booked for meetings or talks, and next door to that is
the children's library, which has a good collection of stories and picture books for the under
elevens. Then there's a large room to the right of the library area - that's the multimedia
collection, where you can borrow videos and DVDs and so on, and we also have CD-Roms you
can borrow to use on your computer at home. It was originally the art collection but that's been
moved to another building. And that's about it - oh, there's also the Library Office, on the left of
the librarian's desk. OK, now does anyone have any questions?
ANSWERS:
11
12
13
14
15
11
Sample Listening A: Questions

SECTION 3
Questions 21 - 30
Questions 21 and 22
Page 5 of original Listening paper
Complete the notes below. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for
each answer.
UNDERSTANDING THE WORLDS OCEANS
The Robotic Float Project
Float is shaped like a 21
Scientists from 22 have worked on the project so far
Sample Listening A: Answer Key
21
cigar
22
13 (different) countries
Questions 23 - 25
each answer.
THE OPERATIONAL
CYCLE
Sample Listening A:
Answer Key
23
(is) activated
24 (average) (around
/about/approximately) 50
kilometres/kilometers
25 (water/ocean/sea)
temperature / change(s)
in temperature /
(water/ocean/sea)
temperature change(s) /
temperature of
water/ocean/sea
12
Questions 26 - 30
In what time period can the float projects help with the issues 26-30 below?
A
At present
In the near future
In the long-term future
Write the correct letter, A, B or C, next to questions 26-30.
Sample Listening A:
Answer Key
A
C
A
B
C
Sample Listening B: Questions

SECTION 2
Questions 11 - 16
Questions 11 - 20
each answer.
Sample Listening B:
Answer Key
11 classical music
(concerts) / (classical)
(music) concerts
12 (a) bookshop / (a)
bookstore
13
planned
14
1983 / (the) 1980s
15
(the) City Council
16
363
13
Questions 17 - 20
Complete the table below. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for
each answer.
Sample Listening B: Answer Key

17
(the) Garden Hall
18
Three Lives
19
4.50
20
Faces of China

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IELTS | Test Takers - Academic or General Training?

There are two versions of IELTS to choose from:

IELTS | Test Takers - General Training Reading sample

IELTS | Test Takers - General Training Writing sample

IELTS | Test Takers - Speaking sample

IELTS | Test Takers - Listening sample

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

General Training Reading sample task - Flow-chart completion

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

The Production Process

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

The LGVs are 36 by computer.

(aluminum) printing plates

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

General Training Reading sample task - Identifying information

London to Brighton Bike Ride

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

Rain or shine - be prepared

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

General Training Reading sample task - Matching information

Which advertisement mentions the following?

up-to-date teaching systems

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

General Training Reading sample task - Matching features

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

It helped other countries develop their own film industry.

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

General Training Reading sample task - Matching headings

Look Story about ROBOT AT WORK above

General Training Reading sample task - Multiple choice

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

The global increase in greenhouse gases has been attributed to

The proportion of all greenhouse gases created by coal is approximately

Current research aims to increase the energy-producing efficiency of coal by

burning it at a lower temperature.

To control dust at mine sites, mining companies often use

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

General Training Reading sample task - Sentence completion

Von Frisch discovered the difference between dance types by changing

IELTS | General Training Reading sample

What has been found in some Fancy Foods products?

(on) the bottom

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

General Training Writing sample task - Task 1

Write at least 150 words.

Dear Sir or Madam,

General Training Writing sample task - Task 2

Write at least 250 words.

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

Sample Candidate Writing Scripts and Examiner Comments

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

IELTS | General Training Writing sample

IELTS | General Training Speaking sample

Speaking sample task - Part 1

What kind of place is it?

Lets move on to talk about accommodation.