| The International English
Language Testing System (IELTS) examination
is used to assess language competence by many
universities in the UK and around the world.
This course gives specific preparation for the
exam and, at the same time, introduces students
to the kind of study skills that they will be
required to have at university
The examinations are held in Cambridge
once per week (on average). If you wish to take
the exam, we will help you to complete the application
and undertake the entire administrative process
on your behalf. The cost of the examination,
which is not included in the course fees, is
about £90.
After taking the exam, you will be given a score
in Bands 1 to 9. Band 1 indicates a Beginner
and Band 9 is close to native speaker competence.
Most universities require a score of at least
6.0. This indicates a speaker who has an effective
command of the language, despite some inaccurate
and inappropriate usage. Click
here for a detailed description of each
band.
The aim of the course is to improve communicative
competence and to build up the skills and techniques
needed in each part of the exam. The course
also covers skills required for university study,
as follows:
Developing sensitivity to written texts, identifying
the main ideas and understanding the author's
attitude
Improving global reading skills, including
skimming and scanning for specific information
and detail
Developing techniques for improving fluency,
expressing personal opinions and supporting
arguments
Planning a structured approach to writing
including organising ideas, defining issues
and explaining central points
Developing listening skills, including being
aware of stress, intonation and register
The curriculum includes the analysis of examination technique, intensive examination practice and "mock" tests.
The courses are designed to ensure that you achieve a minimum score of 5.5. However, they are also suitable for students aiming for 7.0 and higher.
For full information about IELTS, visit www.ielts.org
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