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IELTS LISTENING

Understanding IELTS Listening Format

The  IELTS Listening test is designed to evaluate your understanding of spoken English through main ideas, detailed information, opinions, purpose and attitudes of the speakers, as well as your ability to follow the development of ideas. For both Academic and General Training applicants, it is an crucial part of the IELTS test. Your listening skills will be assessed through the four recordings and you need to answer 40 questions in 30-minute test, which is followed by later ten minutes for delivering answers.

We at Namaste Classroom offer you expert guidance, strategies, and study materials to help you ace the IELTS Listening section. Let’s go over every aspect so you can achieve your desired band score.

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    Understanding the IELTS Listening Format

    Aspect Details
    Duration 30 Minutes of listening time + 10 minutes for transferring answers to the answer sheet
    Sections Four sections, each containing 10 questions (40 questions total).
    Audio Content Conversations monologues and discussions in various English.
    You’ll hear each recording only once.
    Recordings increase in complexity as you progress
    Questions Types Multiple Choice, Table/Note Completion, Sentence Completion, Summary Completion, Diagram/Map Labelling, Matching and short Answer Questions.
    Scoring Each correct answer earns 1 point; no negative marking.

    More IELTS Modules 

    IELTS – Reading

    ELTS – Listening

    IELTS – Speaking

    IELTS – Writing

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    Sample Paper

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    Breakdown of the Sections of IELTS Listening

    Question Number Conversation Type Details
    Section 1 1-10 Real-Life Based Conversation Conversation between 2 people in an everyday social context
    Section 2 11-20 Real-Life Based Monologue A monologue set in an everyday social context
    Section 3 21-30 Academic Conversation Discussion among 3/4 people set in educational/training context
    Section 4 31-40 Academic Conversation Monologue related to academic

    The four sections of the IELTS listening tests are as follows:

    Section Details Purpose
    Section 1
    • A face-to-face or telephone conversation between two people.
    • Topics are set in an everyday social context (e.g., booking accommodations, travel arrangements).
    • Usually comprises one or two tasks, with a pause between tasks.
    • Tests your understanding of specific information such as dates, places, and everyday objects.
    • Evaluates your spelling accuracy (all words must be correctly spelt).
    Section 2
    • A talk, speech, announcement, or recorded message by a single speaker (possibly introduced by another)
    • Topics are of general interest (e.g., an event or facility overview).
    • Usually comprises two tasks, with a pause between tasks.
    • Assesses your ability to understand factual information.
    • Tests your ability to select and filter relevant information.
    Section 3
    • A discussion between two to four speakers (e.g., students and a lecturer).
    • Concerned with academic topics (e.g., group projects or study-related discussions).
    • Includes up to three tasks, with pauses between tasks.
    • Evaluates your ability to identify key facts, ideas, and their relationships.
    • Tests your ability to discern speakers’ attitudes and opinions.
    Section 4
    • A lecture, presentation, or speech on a topic of academic interest (e.g., science, history).
    • No pauses between tasks.
    • Evaluates your spelling accuracy and ability to distinguish between ideas.
    • Tests your ability to follow the speaker’s opinion and reasoning.
    • Assesses understanding of main ideas, specific details, causes, effects, and the organization of ideas.

    The four sections of the IELTS listening tests are as follows:

    Increasing Difficulty

    Sections progress from easier, everyday conversations to complex academic discussions.

    Single Playback

    Each recording is played only once, so active listening is critical.

    Mixed Accents

    Recordings feature British, Australian, American, and Canadian accents.

    IELTS listening Question Types with Tips

    Question Type Description Quick Tips
    Multiple Choice Questions Choose the correct answer from 3-4 options.
    • Read all options beforehand.
    • Pay attention to the order of questions matching the recording flow.
    Table/Note Completion Fill in missing information like dates, prices, and names.
    • Check the word limit in the instructions.
    • Predict the type of word (e.g., number, noun) required for each blank.
    Sentence Completion Complete sentences with words from the recording.
    • Focus on grammar and meaning.
    • Pay attention to synonyms and paraphrased content in the audio.
    Summary Completion Fill in gaps in a summary using the recording.
    • Understand the context before listening.
    • Identify likely word types (e.g., numbers, names) for each blank.
    Labeling a Diagram/Map Label visual displays based on the recording.
    • Study the map/diagram beforehand to understand directions or layout.
    • Pay attention to positional language like next to, behind, or to the left of.
    Matching Questions Match a set of options to people, places, or topics in the recording.
      • Listen for specific details that connect items.
      • Match only one item per question to avoid confusion.
     
    Short Answer Questions Write words, phrases, or numbers based on details from the audio.
    • Stick to the word limit and focus on clarity.

    Band score for IELTS listening.

    Scores range from 1 (non-user) to 9 (experienced user) on the IELTS listening band. Each right response will earn you one mark, so the total number of marks is equal to the number of questions (40). The official IELTS 9-band scale is used to convert the total marks into a band score. Keep in mind that the IELTS general listening score process and the IELTS academic listening score process are identical.

    TOP TIPS TO CRACK IELTS LISTENING MODULE

    • Familiarize Yourself with the Format : Practice all question types to understand their nuances. Simulate test conditions by practicing with time limits.
    • Effectively Manage Your Time Before the recording begins, quickly review the questions. Highlight keywords so you know what to listen for. Make the most of the 10-minute answer transfer period by carefully reviewing your responses.
    • Develop Your Paraphrasing and Vocabulary Skills Many responses use synonyms or reworded concepts. Develop a strong vocabulary to recognize paraphrases with ease.
    • Spell and Write Accurately Incorrect spelling and grammar can cost marks. Write neatly and double-check your answers during the transfer time.
    • Develop Active Listening Skills Focus on understanding the main idea and specific details. Pay attention to changes in tone, emphasis, and synonyms in the recording.
    • Be Aware of Distractions Corrections or other material may be included in recordings. Stay alert and verify answers carefully.
    • Practice Listening to Various Accents IELTS recordings include accents like British, American, Australian, and Canadian. Familiarize yourself with these by listening to podcasts, audiobooks, or news channels.