Academic/General Training Module by Adam Smith First Published in 2015

Part 1 is supposed to be quite easy (like a warm-up), so you won't get a 
high score if you only do well in this part. 
 
Part 2 is when the examiner really gets a chance to assess how good you 
are. He/she will now have an idea of what scores to give you. 
 
During part 3, the examiner is making his/her final decision. A good 
performance here can boost your score. 
 
 
 

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 IELTS
 JOURNAL 
 
 
 
6 
If you don’t understand, … 
What should you do if you don't understand a question in the speaking test? 
Here are my tips: 
Part 1
 
In part 1, the examiner is not allowed to help you, but he/she can repeat the 
question. Just say: "Sorry, can you repeat the question please?" If you still 
don't understand the second time, try to say something related to the topic or 
any of the words that you heard. Try your best, then focus on the next 
question. 
Part 2 
You are given a task card with the question written on it, so you shouldn't have 
any problems in this part. If there is a word that you don't understand on the 
task card, don't ask the examiner - he/she is not allowed to help. 
Part 3 
In this part of the test, the examiner is allowed to rephrase the question. If you 
don't understand, just say something like: "Sorry, can you explain that question 
in a different way please?"