IELTS Academic Test Preparation from edX

IELTS is the world's most popular English language test for those wanting to study in higher education in an English-speaking country.

This IELTS course will prepare you to take the IELTS Academic tests with confidence. You will have immediate access to over 80 hours of interactive practice materials covering each of the four skills: listening, speaking, reading and writing.

This innovative preparation course has been designed and written by experienced English teaching professionals from The University of Queensland, an IELTS testing centre and one of the world's leading centres of learning. All of the course writers have extensive experience enabling students to reach their academic IELTS goal of entering a university where English is the primary language.

Each section of this course includes engaging multi-media presentations reviewing key test-taking skills, strategies and techniques. These are accompanied by a wide variety of authentic IELTS-style exercises and interactive activities that provide focused practice of the skills, strategies and techniques that you need to perform at your best.

In the new release of this IELTS preparation course, you will find a number of enhancements to an already-successful formula. The course appears with new videos and improvements to the explanation of answers as well as a number of new and engaging practice activities. Significantly, we have responded to requests from existing users to offer more comprehensive feedback on your writing using several new features.

As the course is self-paced, you can complete all of the course units in sequence, or only select the areas you want to focus on to prepare for the IELTS Academic tests. In completing this course, you will feel fully prepared to complete the IELTS Academic tests.

Students who select Verified enrolment in this course will have access to additional materials provided by the IELTSx course team.

What's inside

Learning objectives

Learn about the ielts test procedure and format
Learn useful test-taking strategies and skills for the ielts academic tests

Develop your english reading, writing, listening and speaking skills

Learn about the ielts test procedure and format
Learn useful test-taking strategies and skills for the ielts academic tests
Develop your english reading, writing, listening and speaking skills

Syllabus

MODULE 1: LISTENINGThe module begins with an overview of the IELTS Listening Test and what it includes. This will give you important facts about this module and what it is designed to assess. Following this, we'll show you the differences between each section of the IELTS Listening Test and the types of questions you will need to answer. You will also have opportunities to practise these types of questions and gain the skills that you need. MODULE 2: SPEAKINGThis module outlines the different features of the Speaking Test. In preparation for Part 1 of the Speaking Test, we focus on some of the grammar that you can use to talk about your likes and dislikes. We'll also give you some examples of how to extend your answers, or make them longer. For Part 2 of the test, we'll then focus on the "Individual Long Turn". We'll look at how to analyse the task effectively and how to organise your ideas so that you have a good start, and end, to your talk. For Part 3 of the test, we will focus on "The Discussion". You'll learn to develop vocabulary related to common Part 3 topics and also some of the common grammar features you need for success in the discussion. This includes focussing on tenses and making comparisons. Later in the unit, we'll introduce some strategies to make your pronunciation clearer. In this module, you can watch and learn from videos of students taking different parts of the test.

MODULE 3: READINGThis module begins with an overview of the IELTS Reading Test and what it includes. This will give you important information about what the test is designed to assess and the different question types used in the test. There will be opportunities to practise the skills you have learned. MODULE 4: WRITINGThe module begins with an overview of the IELTS Writing Test and what it includes. We'll then look at the two tasks involved in the test. In preparation for Task 1, you'll learn how to identify different types of visuals, identify and describe the topic and the main features of these visuals, and also how to write an overview paragraph to summarise the key information. We'll then look at describing data for Task 1 of the test. You'll learn about what language to use to describe data, as well as how to select and group information. We'll also look at the language used for ordering ideas in paragraphs. In addition, this module offers the chance to practise writing the opening and data description paragraphs, which you can grade with our new assessment criteria. Additionally, you can get feedback on your writing from your peers and give them feedback using the IELTSx criteria. In preparation for Task 2, we're going to take a closer look at the essay question to help you answer all its parts and we will examine ways of planning and organising your essay. We'll also analyse the different parts of an IELTS essay, look in more detail at some possible task types in Task 2, and explain how they are assessed. We'll then look at how to write a good essay with good structure and appropriate language. Along the way, you'll have a chance to practise writing an introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion and submit these for assessment from other IELTSx students. There will also be practice of proofreading and editing.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Offers an extensive foundation in English language learning, including four key skill areas: reading, writing, listening, and speaking

Introduces students to the format and procedures of the IELTS test, helping them feel confident and prepared

Provides comprehensive guidance and practice materials designed by experienced English teaching professionals from The University of Queensland, an established IELTS testing center

Features interactive exercises and multi-media presentations to reinforce learning and enhance engagement

Includes newly updated videos, improved answer explanations, and engaging practice activities

Offers additional materials and comprehensive writing feedback for students who choose Verified enrollment

Reviews summary

Ielts test preparation

Learners say this IELTS Academic Test Preparation course is exceptional. With 80 hours of interactive content, this self-paced course receives high praise for its engaging presentations, authentic exercises, and expert instructors from the University of Queensland. Students say it's a great way to prepare for the IELTS Academic exam, giving particular praise to the detailed feedback.

The course is flexible.

"The self-paced nature of the course, allowing learners to complete units in sequence or focus on specific areas, offers great flexibility to accommodate different learning needs and schedules."

This course is multimedia-rich.

"The inclusion of engaging multimedia presentations reviewing key strategies and techniques, along with authentic IELTS-style exercises and interactive activities, suggests a multimedia-rich learning experience that caters to different learning styles."

The course offers detailed feedback.

"The mention of comprehensive feedback on writing tasks, along with improvements to explanation of answers and new practice activities in the latest release, indicates a commitment to providing detailed feedback and support to learners."

The course is taught by experts.

"The fact that the course is designed and written by experienced English teaching professionals from the University of Queensland, an IELTS testing center and a renowned institution, instills confidence in the quality of instruction and the instructors' expertise in preparing students for the IELTS Academic exam."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in IELTS Academic Test Preparation with these activities:

Review the IELTS test format

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Familiarize yourself with the IELTS test format to enhance your confidence and improve your test-taking strategies.

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Visit the official IELTS website and download the test format document.
Read through the document to understand the different sections of the test.
Take note of the time limit for each section.
Identify the types of questions you will encounter in each section.

Read 'The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS'

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Gain insights and strategies for the IELTS test by referring to the official Cambridge guide, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of the exam format and expectations.

View The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS Student's... on Amazon

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Purchase the book from a reputable bookstore or online retailer.
Read through the book thoroughly, taking notes on key points.
Complete the practice exercises and mock tests included in the book.
Review the answer keys and explanations to reinforce your understanding.
Refer to the book regularly for guidance and support throughout your IELTS preparation.

Write an IELTS essay

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Practice writing IELTS essays under timed conditions to develop your analytical, critical thinking, and writing skills.

Browse courses on IELTS Writing Task 2

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Choose a topic from the IELTS exam or a related subject.
Brainstorm ideas and create an outline for your essay.
Write a full draft of your essay within the time limit.
Review and edit your essay, paying attention to grammar, vocabulary, and structure.
Get feedback on your essay from an IELTS tutor or instructor.

Show all three activities

Career center

Learners who complete IELTS Academic Test Preparation will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

English Language Instructor

An English Language Instructor teaches students to understand and communicate in English. This role is a good fit for you if you have a passion for sharing the intricacies of the English language and enjoy guiding others in their learning journey. The IELTS Academic Test Preparation course from The University of Queensland can be a valuable resource for this role as it provides you with a comprehensive understanding of the IELTS exam and the skills needed to excel in it. With this knowledge, you can effectively prepare your students for the exam and help them achieve their language learning goals.

See salaries and explore the career path for English Language Instructor

Interpreter

An Interpreter facilitates communication between speakers of different languages. This course is a good starting point if you are interested in a career as an Interpreter. It offers a comprehensive understanding of the English language and develops your listening and speaking skills, which are essential for effective interpretation.

See salaries and explore the career path for Interpreter

Foreign Language Teacher

A Foreign Language Teacher teaches foreign languages to students. This course is a good option if you want to pursue a career as a Foreign Language Teacher. It provides a strong foundation in English language teaching and assessment. The course's focus on IELTS preparation will give you the skills to effectively teach English to non-native speakers.

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Editor

An Editor reviews, revises, and prepares written content for publication. This course is a suitable option for you if you are interested in a career as an Editor. It provides you with a deep understanding of the English language and develops your writing skills, enabling you to effectively evaluate and enhance written content.

See salaries and explore the career path for Editor

Translator

A Translator converts written text from one language to another. If you are interested in pursuing a career as a Translator, this course can be a valuable asset. It provides a deep understanding of the English language and develops your reading and writing skills, enabling you to effectively convey meaning across languages.

See salaries and explore the career path for Translator

Journalist

A Journalist gathers, analyzes, and reports on news and current events. This course may be useful for aspiring Journalists as it develops your writing, research, and critical thinking skills, and enhances your understanding of the English language. These skills are essential for effectively gathering and reporting on news stories.

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Speech Therapist

A Speech Therapist assesses and treats individuals with communication disorders. This course may be beneficial if you wish to pursue a career as a Speech Therapist. It enhances your understanding of the English language and develops your listening and speaking skills, which are essential for effective communication therapy.

See salaries and explore the career path for Speech Therapist

Content Writer

A Content Writer creates and delivers written content for various platforms, such as websites, blogs, and social media. This course can be beneficial for you if you aspire to become a Content Writer. It strengthens your writing and communication skills, enabling you to produce engaging and informative content that resonates with your target audience.

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Librarian

A Librarian organizes and manages library resources and provides assistance to library users. This course can be beneficial for aspiring Librarians as it develops your reading, writing, and research skills, and enhances your understanding of the English language. These skills are essential for effectively managing library resources and assisting patrons with their research needs.

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Technical Writer

A Technical Writer creates clear and concise technical documentation that explains complex information to a target audience. The IELTS Academic Test Preparation course from The University of Queensland can be useful if you want to pursue a career as a Technical Writer. This course enhances your reading, writing, and listening skills, which are essential for understanding and conveying technical information effectively.

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Educational Consultant

An Educational Consultant provides advice and guidance to students and families on educational matters. This course may be useful if you want to pursue a career as an Educational Consultant. It develops your communication and interpersonal skills, and provides you with a deep understanding of the English language and educational systems, enabling you to effectively advise students on their educational paths.

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Social Worker

A Social Worker provides support and assistance to individuals and families facing various challenges. This course can provide a valuable foundation for aspiring Social Workers as it develops your communication and interpersonal skills, and enhances your understanding of human behavior and social issues. These skills are essential for effectively supporting and empowering individuals in need.

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Academic Researcher

An Academic Researcher conducts research and publishes findings in academic journals. This course can provide a valuable foundation if you aspire to become an Academic Researcher. It develops your reading, writing, and critical thinking skills, which are essential for conducting and disseminating research in the academic field.

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Museum curator

A Museum Curator oversees and manages museum collections and exhibits. This course may be useful if you are interested in a career as a Museum Curator. It provides a strong foundation in English language and communication skills, enabling you to effectively interpret and present museum collections to the public.

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Curriculum Developer

A Curriculum Developer designs and develops educational programs and materials. This course is a valuable resource for aspiring Curriculum Developers as it provides a strong foundation in English language teaching and assessment. The course's focus on IELTS preparation will give you the skills to create effective learning materials and curricula for English language learners.

See salaries and explore the career path for Curriculum Developer