Understanding the IELTS marking criteria is the most powerful tool you have for achieving a high score. It’s not enough to simply have good English; you need to know exactly what examiners are looking for in each section. By learning the official marking scheme, you can tailor your preparation to meet these specific requirements and maximize your band score.
At Banglay IELTS, founded by Rashed Hossain, we demystify the scoring process. We use these same criteria to provide you with targeted feedback and practical strategies, ensuring your hard work translates into the results you need.
How is the IELTS overall band score calculated?
Your overall IELTS band score is calculated by averaging your individual band scores from the four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The final score is then rounded to the nearest half or whole band. For example, an average of 6.25 is rounded up to 6.5, while an average of 6.1 is rounded down to 6.0.
What are the IELTS marking criteria for Writing and Speaking?
The Writing and Speaking modules are assessed subjectively by certified examiners based on four key IELTS marking criteria. Each criterion accounts for 25% of your final score in that module.
IELTS Writing Marking Criteria:
- Task Achievement (Task 1) / Task Response (Task 2): This criterion assesses how well you have addressed all parts of the question. For Task 1, this means accurately summarizing the key features of a graph or chart. For Task 2, it means presenting a clear position and supporting it with relevant ideas and examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: This measures the logical flow and organization of your writing. Examiners look for a clear progression of ideas and the appropriate use of linking words and phrases to connect sentences and paragraphs smoothly.
- Lexical Resource: This assesses your range and accuracy of vocabulary. A high score requires you to use a wide range of words, including less common vocabulary and correct collocations (words that naturally go together).
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: This criterion evaluates your ability to use a variety of grammatical structures correctly. To score high, you need to show control over a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences with minimal errors in grammar and punctuation.
IELTS Speaking Marking Criteria:
- Fluency and Coherence: This assesses your ability to speak smoothly and without unnatural pauses. You should be able to develop your ideas logically and use a range of cohesive devices to link your speech.
- Lexical Resource: Similar to writing, this criterion assesses your vocabulary. Examiners look for a broad range of vocabulary, including idiomatic language, and the ability to use these words accurately and flexibly.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Your score depends on your ability to use a mix of simple and complex grammatical structures correctly. Occasional errors are acceptable, but they should not impede communication.
- Pronunciation: This measures how clearly and intelligibly you speak. Examiners are not looking for a perfect accent, but rather your ability to use a range of pronunciation features (like stress and intonation) to be easily understood.
How are Listening and Reading modules marked?
Unlike the Writing and Speaking tests, the Listening and Reading modules are marked objectively. Each section has 40 questions, and you receive one point for each correct answer. This “raw score” is then converted into a band score using a conversion table. The number of correct answers needed for a specific band score can vary slightly between test versions, but the general range remains consistent.
Ready to Master the Marking Criteria?
Understanding the IELTS marking criteria is the first step toward success. The next step is to get the expert guidance you need to put this knowledge into practice. At Banglay IELTS, our personalized coaching is built around these exact criteria, providing you with the targeted feedback and strategies to excel in every module.
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Don’t just take the test—master it. Contact Banglay IELTS today and start preparing with the criteria in mind!
Frequently Asked Questions
How is the overall IELTS band score calculated?
Your overall band score is the average of your individual scores from the four sections: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The final score is rounded to the nearest half or whole band. For example, an average of 6.25 is rounded up to 6.5, and 6.1 is rounded down to 6.0.
What are the four key marking criteria for IELTS Writing and Speaking?
Both the Writing and Speaking modules are assessed on four criteria, each accounting for 25% of your score: Task Achievement/Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource (vocabulary), and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.
How do examiners score the Listening and Reading tests?
The Listening and Reading tests are marked objectively. You get one point for each correct answer out of 40 questions. This raw score is then converted into a band score using a conversion table. The number of correct answers needed for a specific band score can vary slightly between test versions.
Does a person’s accent affect their score in the Speaking test?
No, your accent does not directly affect your score. The examiner assesses you on your Pronunciation, which measures how clearly you speak and how well you can be understood. They are looking for your ability to use a range of pronunciation features, not for a specific accent.
What does “Lexical Resource” mean in the IELTS marking criteria?
Lexical Resource refers to your range and accuracy of vocabulary. To score high, you need to demonstrate a wide range of words, including less common vocabulary and correct collocations (words that naturally go together).
Why is it so important to understand the IELTS marking criteria?
Understanding the marking criteria is crucial because it tells you exactly what the examiners are looking for. This knowledge allows you to tailor your preparation and practice to meet specific requirements, ensuring your efforts directly translate into a higher score.
How does Banglay IELTS help me understand and meet these criteria?
Banglay IELTS builds its personalized coaching around the official marking criteria. Instructors use these exact standards to provide you with targeted feedback and practical strategies, helping you confidently apply the knowledge and skills needed to achieve your desired band score.
Contact us today to get started.
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