Achieving an IELTS speaking band 9 can subsequently contribute towards your overall IELTS band score. It is one of the 4 modules of the IELTS and carries 25% weightage of the total score.
However, many of us find it challenging to achieve IELTS speaking band 9 as it requires direct interaction with the examiner. The examiner will ask direct questions (unlike the other modules), requiring strong practice and presence of mind to answer questions so effectively.
But no worries, utilising some of the right strategies can be a smoother sailing experience for achieving the IELTS speaking band 9. In this blog, we will explore these tips and tricks to help you reach your goal.
IELTS Speaking Section Structure
Before we learn about the methods that can help you achieve band 9, it is essential to understand the structure of the IELTS speaking module.
The IELTS speaking module consists of the 3 sections:
| Section Name | Duration |
| Introduction | 4-5 minutes |
| Individual Long Turn | 2-3 minutes |
| Two-way discussion | 5-6 minutes |
Now let us see what each of these sections contains in detail:
Introduction
In the first part of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will introduce themselves and ask you to do the same.
In this part, you will be asked some basic questions about yourself, like your family, career, education, and hobbies. The examiner will also ask about familiar topics like your home, work, and interests. This part checks how well you can talk about everyday topics and common experiences.
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Individual Long turn (also called Cue card round)
In the second part of the IELTS Speaking test, you’ll be given a cue card with a topic and some points to cover in your talk. You have 1 minute to prepare and can make notes. Then, you’ll speak for 1-2 minutes on the topic.
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Discussions
In the third part of the IELTS Speaking test, the examiner will ask you more abstract and complex questions related to the topic from Part 2. This involves a discussion on broader issues and ideas. It assesses your ability to express and justify opinions and analyse, discuss, and speculate on various matters.
Also Read: IELTS Speaking Practice Test with Sample Answers
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IELTS Speaking Marking Criteria
Now, you might be wondering what contributes to IELTS Speaking Band 9. Well, four parameters determine your score on the IELTS speaking test. These include fluency and coherence (logical flow of information), lexical resource (Vocabulary), grammatical range and accuracy (grammar), and pronunciation (clarity).
| Parameter | Description |
| Fluency and Coherence | Assesses your ability to speak smoothly and logically without unnecessary pauses or repetition. Evaluate how well you organise and link your ideas. |
| Lexical Resource | Measures the range and accuracy of your vocabulary. Looks at your ability to use appropriate words and phrases for different topics and contexts. |
| Grammatical Range and Accuracy | Evaluates your use of a variety of grammatical structures correctly. Consider the complexity and accuracy of your sentences. |
| Pronunciation | Assesses how clear and understandable your speech is. Includes the correct pronunciation of individual sounds, word stress, sentence stress, and intonation. |
Understanding these four key areas—flow and logic, vocabulary, grammar, and clarity—can help you focus your preparation for the IELTS Speaking test. You can aim for the IELTS speaking band 9 by working on these skills.
Also Check: Band 9 IELTS Speaking Samples for 2024
IELTS Speaking Tips For Band 9
The speaking examination is the same regardless of whether you take the paper-based or computer-based test for IELTS academic or general training. It always includes a face-to-face interview with a professional IELTS examiner. It is the easiest part of the IELTS exam if handled well because it involves realistic approaches.
Here are a few tricks and tips to get IELTS speaking band 9:
- Do not emphasise your accent: The examiner will realise you are not a native English speaker from an English-speaking country. But do not worry about your accent, either; if you pronounce everything correctly, the accent will not affect your overall IELTS score.
- Avoid fillers: Speaking clearly and without hesitation will significantly improve your overall IELTS score. Fillers should be avoided. When candidates are stumped about what to say in response to a question, they generally resort to fillers. However, this could create the wrong impression on the examiner, leading them to believe you lack the requisite language skills. Avoid these, and instead, utilise idioms and phrases to strengthen your response. Also, read ‘Latest IELTS idioms’ for some idioms and phrases.
- Make use of a range of speaking styles: We may speak a word coldly or monotonously when we say specific sentences. Using good speaking techniques, such as emphasising keywords and modulating your voice, will assist you in leaving a lasting impression on the examiner about your speaking skills.
- Avoid rushing words: Speaking too quickly will not increase your fluency score and may cause you to make more mistakes. Instead, keep calm, communicate properly, and speak at a comfortable pace.
- Do not resort to memorising: The questions in the Speaking segment all follow a similar structure. While it is necessary to have useful vocabulary, common phrases, and collocations (common word groupings), it is also important to avoid memorising large portions of speech. Examiners are trained to spot memorised responses and will penalise you accordingly.
- Vocabulary and idioms: You should learn current vocabulary and idioms by categorising terms into groups like sports or movies. This method can also help you enhance your vocabulary for other areas of the IELTS test; the more vocabulary you have, the better your score!
- Use your one minute wisely: The examiner will offer you one minute to rehearse your argument in part two of the speaking section, where you will speak about a specific topic. Make the most of this time. If you do not know much about the subject, do not worry; you may make up a tale or imagine yourself in somebody else’s shoes and explain the story from their point of view. Suppose you need to talk about a sporting event you went to, but you are not a sports enthusiast. In that case, you may put yourself in the shoes of a friend who is and talk about their experience as if it were your own. Remember, there are no right or wrong answers; you are simply being judged on your ability to communicate. The points you will be covering will be listed on a cue card, so use your one minute to jot down phrases or keywords on your writing paper so you can refer to them if you get stuck.
Conclusion
Implementing these tips and tricks can enhance your performance in the IELTS Speaking test and increase your chances of achieving a band 9 score. Consistent practice, a strong command of language skills, and strategic preparation contribute to your success. Join the Free IELTS Masterclass by LeapScholar, where top educators will teach proven methods to help students score high on the IELTS exam.
These sessions cover effective techniques, provide personalised feedback, and offer valuable insights into the exam format. Leveraging expert guidance and incorporating these strategies into your study plan can significantly improve your performance and confidently aim for a top band score.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q. How to get band 9 in IELTS speaking?
A. To achieve a band 9 in IELTS speaking, aim for fluent and accurate speech with a wide range of vocabulary and grammar. Express complex ideas with ease and maintain coherence throughout. Also, demonstrate a strong ability to discuss abstract topics extensively and showcase cultural awareness in your responses.
Q. What strategies should we focus on to create an effective ‘9 band’ introduction for the IELTS Speaking?
A. When preparing for the IELTS Speaking test, it’s important to create an engaging and clear introduction. Start with a friendly greeting and a brief statement about the topic. Introduce the main points or themes you’ll cover in your response, and try to keep your language natural and unrehearsed. Lastly, aim to speak with confidence, setting a positive tone for the rest of your test.
Q. What should I bring to the speaking examination?
A. For the speaking examination, remember to bring your identification, such as your passport, which you used to book the test. Additionally, take any other documents specified by the test centre to ensure smooth admission to the examination.
Q. Should I use body gestures during my oral exam?
A. Incorporating subtle body gestures can enhance your oral communication, making it more engaging and effective. However, ensure that your gestures are natural and complement your speech without becoming distracting or overly exaggerated.
Q. Is it okay if I use contractions?
A. Yes, using contractions is appropriate in the IELTS speaking test. They contribute to a more natural and conversational tone in your speech, reflecting how language is commonly used in everyday communication.
Q. What are the most common discussion topics in the IELTS speaking section?
A. Common topics in the IELTS speaking section include daily routines, hobbies, family, work or studies, and societal issues. Be prepared to discuss abstract subjects such as happiness, success, or culture, showcasing your ability to handle diverse topics effectively.
Q. How is IELTS speaking scored?
A. IELTS speaking is scored based on four criteria: fluency and coherence, lexical resource, grammatical range and accuracy, and pronunciation. Examiners assess your performance against these criteria to determine your speaking score.
Q. How can I effectively manage my time during the IELTS Speaking test?
A. Efficient time management is crucial during the IELTS speaking test. Practice speaking within the allocated time limits for each task. Develop a strategy that allows you to distribute your time effectively across the different sections of the test, ensuring that you provide comprehensive responses within the given timeframes.
Q. How can I calculate my IELTS speaking score?
A. You can calculate your potential IELTS speaking score by using scoring guides and practice materials available online. Compare your responses against these guides to estimate the score you might achieve on the speaking test.
Q. What happens if I don’t speak for 2 minutes in IELTS?
A. In the IELTS speaking test, if you fail to speak for the entire 2 minutes during part 2, the examiner will intervene by prompting you with a question to facilitate a continuation of the speaking task.
Q. How can I practice IELTS speaking?
A. To practice IELTS speaking, engage in regular conversations with a study partner or tutor, participate in mock speaking tests, and consider recording your responses for self-assessment. Additionally, utilise speaking practice materials and resources to enhance your speaking skills.
Q. How do I improve my speaking in IELTS?
A. Improving your speaking in IELTS involves expanding your vocabulary, refining pronunciation, and focusing on coherence and fluency in your responses. Regular practice, seeking feedback from tutors or study partners, and actively engaging in discussions can significantly enhance your speaking abilities for the IELTS test.
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