A m b r I d g e university press

TO THE STUDENT
About the book
This book has been written for candidates preparing for the revised version
of the International English Language Testing System, known as IELTS.
This is a test designed to assess the English language skills of non-English
speaking students seeking to study in an English speaking country.
Aims of the book
— to prepare you for the test by familiarising you with the types of texts
and tasks that you will meet in the IELTS test, and the level and style of
language used in the test.
— to help you prepare for your studies at university or college
by introducing you to the types of communication tasks which you are
likely to meet in English speaking study environment.
Content of the book
The book contains four complete sample IELTS tests, each comprising
Listening and Speaking modules and Academic Reading and Writing modules.
In addition there is one set of the General Training Reading and Writing
modules. (NB all candidates do the same Listening and Speaking modules.)
To accompany the tests there is an answer key at the back of the book and you
should refer to this after you have attempted each of the practice tests. Also
included is an annotated copy of the listening tapescripts with the appropriate
sections highlighted to help you to check your answers. In addition, you will
find one model answer for each type of writing task to guide you with your
writing. There is a comprehensive key for the Reading and Listening sections,
but if you are in any doubt about your answers, talk to a teacher or an English
speaking friend. Where you are required to answer in your own words, the
answer must be accurate in both meaning as well as grammar in order to be
scored correct.
Benefits of studying for IELTS
By studying for IELTS you will not only be preparing for the test but also
for your future as a student in an English speaking environment. The test
is designed to assess your ability to understand and produce written and
spoken language in an educational context. The book makes reference to
the ways in which university study is organised in many English speaking
countries and the types of academic tasks you will be expected to perform.

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2
Introdution
These include:
• Reading and understanding written academic or training language
• Writing assignments in an appropriate style for university study or within a training
context
• Listening to and comprehending spoken language in both lecture format as well as
formal and informal conversational style
• Speaking to colleagues and lecturers on general and given topics in formal and
informal situations