13 Tips to Score Band 7 in the IELTS Speaking Test

When I first set out to learn how to get band 7 in IELTS speaking, I knew it wouldn’t be easy. I realized that achieving this score required more than fluency. It needed a strategic approach.

Throughout my preparation journey, I discovered several key tactics that can significantly enhance one’s performance as scoring a band 7 in IELTS would have surely helped me to gain admission to top universities.

Since the IELTS speaking section consists of a face-to-face discussion with the interviewer, you need to be completely prepared and have an in-depth understanding of the type of questions asked. Each element plays a crucial role, from mastering pronunciation to expanding your vocabulary.

Here, I have compiled the practical tips and insights I learned along the way to help you reach your goal of a band 7 in the IELTS speaking test.

Understanding IELTS Speaking Criteria

As a student wishing to study abroad, understanding the IELTS Speaking Criteria is important before discussing how to get band 7 in IELTS speaking.

The IELTS Speaking test assesses your English speaking skills based on four criteria:-

1. Fluency and Coherence

This criterion evaluates your ability to speak fluently and coherently. Key indicators include:-

• You should maintain continuity while speaking. 
• Avoid excessive interruptions like false starts or repetitions.
• You should ensure logical sequencing of sentences, clear marking of discussion stages, the relevance of sentences to the topic, and the use of cohesive devices.

2. Lexical Resource

This assesses your vocabulary range and precision. Key indicators include:-

• Variety of words used.
• Appropriacy of vocabulary for different contexts (referential meaning, style, collocation, attitude expression).
• Ability to paraphrase and use idiomatic expressions.

3. Grammatical Range and Accuracy

This evaluates your use of grammatical structures accurately and appropriately. Key indicators include:-

• Length and complexity of sentences.
• Use of subordinate clauses, verb phrases, and other grammatical structures.
• Range of sentence structures and grammatical accuracy.

4. Pronunciation

This criterion assesses your ability to convey meaningful messages clearly through pronunciation. Key indicators include:-

• Dividing speech into meaningful chunks.
• Using rhythm, stress timing, and linking sounds for connected speech.
• Using stress, intonation, and word/phoneme production effectively.
• Accent's overall effect on intelligibility.

How to Get Band 7 in IELTS Speaking: 13 Tips

If you are wondering how to get band 7 in IELTS speaking, here are some tips worth considering:-

1. Speak English Regularly

IELTS Band 7 achievers have a common trait - they incorporate the usage of the English language in their everyday life. Keep practicing steadily, and you will witness gradual improvements.

2. Clarify Things You Do Not Understand

The speaking test mimics a regular conversation. If you do not understand something, ask your examiner about the same. Just say that you are sorry before asking him to explain what a word means. You can also ask the examiner to repeat a question.

3. Warming Up is Essential

Most students usually need 10-15 minutes to warm up before giving their best performances. Make sure that you start this warm-up process before the actual Speaking test. Keep listening, reading, speaking, and writing in English for about 24 hours before the examination.

4. Always Give a Complete Answer

Do not go by only No and Yes in the test. Try and provide complete answers with examples.

5. Rectify Errors

Small mistakes are inevitable, especially if you get a little nervous during the test. Rectify any errors just as you make them. It will demonstrate your knowledge of grammar and your command of vocabulary to the examiner.

6. Design a Rigorous Study Plan

Emphasize the marking criteria and execute your study plan accordingly.

7. Assess Your Performance

Record speaking sessions and keep evaluating your performance honestly.

8. Evaluate Your Weaknesses

Try and zero in on weaknesses.

9. Speak Consistently

Your score improves if you keep talking throughout the examination, even if you make a few errors. IELTS tests what you are capable of doing instead of examining what you cannot do.

10. Always Use Idioms

Make sure to use some idioms in your speech while demonstrating knowledge of collocation and proper style. The examiner will look for clues that you can delve beyond simple textbook knowledge. They will appreciate your usage of actual English. You can pick up phrases online or even through dedicated learning apps.

11. Paraphrase Questions

If the examiner asks you a question, you can immediately think of how to paraphrase it. It means that you will be expressing the same thing in another way. It is a great way to show some of the core attributes that the examiner is looking for. You can attempt this 2-3 times during your Speaking test with good results.

12. Linking Words

As per the criteria for assessment, a suitable aspirant for Band 7 will be able to use connectors flexibly. Use expressions such as although, however, on the other hand, in other words, and more.

Your range is what will get you noticed. The examiner does not want you to say the same thing again and again. Record your speech and identify whether you are repeating any phrase a little too much. Consider replacing the same with another sentence. Linking words will always get you better scores.

13. Do Not Shy Away from Mistakes

You can still get Band 7 or even 7.5 even if you have made a few mistakes. Some candidates often get low scores since they worry excessively about not making any mistakes.

These IELTS speaking tips for band 7 will certainly help you improve your vocabulary, pronunciation, and, most importantly, your confidence!

Common Challenges to Achieve Band 7 and How to Overcome Them

 Achieving a Band 7 or higher in the IELTS speaking test can be challenging due to several common issues. Here are these challenges and IELTS speaking tips for band 7 to overcome them:-

1. Insufficient Vocabulary

Limited vocabulary leads to repetitive language and hampers clear expression of ideas. Strategies to overcome this problem:

• Learn from model essays to expand IELTS-specific vocabulary.
• Practice using new vocabulary in your essays to enhance lexical resources.

2. Grammar Inaccuracy

Inaccuracies in grammar, such as errors in articles, subject-verb agreement, and tenses, impact the overall score. IELTS speaking tips to overcome this problem:

• Practice with experienced teachers or use online grammar checkers for basic checks.
• Focus on common grammar mistakes and work on improving accuracy in grammar usage.

3. Misunderstanding the Question

Misinterpreting the question or missing out on key components results in a lower score. Strategies to overcome this problem:-

• Read the question carefully and identify all aspects before planning your response.
• Refer to model answers to understand how questions are effectively addressed.

4. Lack of Logical Responses

Lack of logical organization in answers leads to a disjointed response. Strategies to overcome this problem:-

• Your response should focus on a single idea. 
• Use linking words like "Furthermore," "In addition," and "However" to connect ideas and improve coherence.

5. Running Out of Time

Time management issues can lead to incoherent answers. Strategies to overcome this problem:-

• Time your responses during practice to improve speed and efficiency in completing tasks within the allocated time.
• Allocate specific time for each task of the IELTS speaking test and ensure that you complete the response in that time frame. 

Also Read:-

• How to Start IELTS Preparation at Home
• How IELTS Speaking Score Is Calculated
• What are the Types of Essays in IELTS 
• Know About Common IELTS Speaking Topics With Answers

Conclusion

Achieving a band 7 in the IELTS speaking section demands a clear understanding of assessment criteria and overcoming common challenges through strategic preparation and consistent practice.

The best way to improve your speaking skills is to practice until you feel comfortable enough and eventually enjoy it. While you practice, keep in mind my IELTS speaking tips, and you will surely ace the exam.