IELTS Speaking Part 2: The Long Turn

• IELTS Speaking Part 2, also known as the "Long Turn," is a crucial section of the test
• Assesses ability to speak fluently and coherently on a given topic for an extended period.
• Fluency and coherence are key aspects evaluated.

Format

• The examiner provides a task card with a topic and prompts.
• One minute preparation time is allocated.
• Speaking duration is one to two minutes.
• The examiner may ask one or two follow-up questions.

Fluency

• Fluency is speaking smoothly and continuously, without excessive hesitation or repetition.
• Natural pace and rhythm are important; avoid extremes.
• Linking words and phrases connect ideas and sentences; examples: "and," "but," "so," "because," "however," "therefore," "in addition," "moreover," "furthermore," "on the other hand," "for example," "in conclusion."
• Minor grammatical errors are acceptable, as the focus is on communication.
• Pauses are natural, avoid excessive or awkward pauses.
• Self-correction is acceptable, but keep it minimal.
• Aim for a consistent speaking pace.
• Practice speaking on various topics to improve.
• Record yourself and identify areas for improvement.
• Expand vocabulary to express ideas clearly.
• Think in English rather than translating.

Coherence

• Coherence means logical organization and clarity of ideas.
• Structure response logically (introduction, main points, conclusion).
• Address all points mentioned on the task card.
• Develop ideas with relevant details and examples.
• Use topic sentences to introduce new ideas.
• Cohesive devices connect ideas (pronouns, synonyms, conjunctions).
• Maintain focus on the topic.
• Signpost when moving from one idea to the next (e.g., "Firstly," "Secondly," "Another point is").
• Summarize main points at the end.
• Structure talk with introduction / main body / conclusion.
• Use bullet points on the card to help structure answer.
• Use transitions to guide the listener.
• Tell a story-like response, but with real information and facts.

Task Card Prompts

• Task cards present a topic followed by prompts: Who, What, When, Where, Why, How
• Address each prompt.
• Use prompts as a guide for generating ideas.
• Expand on each prompt with details and examples.
• If a prompt is unclear, make an assumption and address it.

Preparation Time

• Use the one minute effectively.
• Quickly brainstorm ideas.
• Make brief notes of key words and phrases.
• Organize ideas into a logical structure.
• Don't write full sentences; focus on key words to jog memory.
• Think about linking words and phrases.
• Use the prompts on the card to create a basic structure.
• Consider a real-life experience related to the topic.
• Practice preparation techniques (mind-mapping, note-taking).

During the Long Turn

• Speak clearly and audibly.
• Maintain eye contact with the examiner.
• Show enthusiasm.
• Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.
• Don't memorize a prepared speech; speak naturally.
• If you get stuck, pause briefly, rephrase, or move on.
• Keep an eye on the time.
• If you finish early, add more details or examples.
• If the examiner stops you, this does not necessarily indicate poor performance.
• Maintain a positive attitude.
• Engage with the topic - show enthusiasm and interest.
• Listen carefully to follow-up questions.
• Answer follow-up questions directly and concisely.
• Don't introduce new ideas in follow-up answers.
• Use follow-up questions to clarify or expand your previous answer.

Common Topics

• Common topics: people, places, objects, events, experiences, abstract ideas.
• Practice speaking on a wide range of topics.
• Read widely and listen to English-language media to expand knowledge and vocabulary.
• Relate common topics to personal experiences.
• Prepare topics by generating vocabulary lists and ideas.

Example Response Strategy

• Task: Describe a time when you helped someone.
  • Who: Neighbor, Mrs. Smith
  • What: Helped with groceries
  • When: Last week
  • Where: At the local supermarket
  • Why: She had difficulty carrying them
  • How: Carried them to her car and then to her house
• Introduction: Briefly introduce the topic - "I'm going to talk about a time when I helped my neighbor, Mrs. Smith."
• Main Body:
  • Describe who Mrs. Smith is.
  • Explain the situation at the supermarket.
  • Describe how you helped her.
  • Explain why you felt good about helping her.
• Conclusion: Summarize the experience - "It was a small act of kindness, but it made a big difference to Mrs. Smith, and it made me feel good too."
• Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas.
• Add details and examples to make it more interesting.
• Speak fluently and naturally.

Improving Fluency and Coherence

• Practice regularly.
• Get feedback from a teacher, tutor, or native speaker.
• Record speaking and analyze your performance.
• Identify areas for improvement and focus on them.
• Use online resources and practice tests.
• Join a language exchange group.
• Immerse yourself in the English language.

Common Mistakes

• Speaking too fast or too slow.
• Hesitating too much.
• Using too many filler words ("um," "ah," "like").
• Going off-topic.
• Not addressing all the points on the task card.
• Using simple vocabulary and grammar.
• Memorizing a prepared speech.
• Panicking when you make a mistake.
• Not using the preparation time effectively.

Assessment Criteria

• Fluency and Coherence: Ability to speak smoothly and logically, with linking words and phrases.
• Lexical Resource: Range and accuracy of vocabulary.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Range and accuracy of grammatical structures.
• Pronunciation: Clarity and intelligibility of speech.

Tips for Success

• Be confident.
• Be yourself.
• Be enthusiastic
• Practice, practice, practice.
• Arrive prepared.
• Listen carefully to the instructions.
• Manage your time effectively.
• Don't be afraid to ask for clarification.
• Stay calm and focused.
• Learn from your mistakes.
• Set realistic goals.
• Celebrate your successes.
• Think positively.
• Believe in yourself.