
Introduction
Note
Audioscipts fo r the
Listening section o f
each test can be
found on pages
401-4 39. If you do
not have access to
an audio CD player,
please refer to the
audioscripts when
prom pted to listen
to an audio
passage.
WHAT IS IELTS?
The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) measures your English
language proficiency for either academic or professional purposes. The Academic
Module is for those planning to attend a university where English is the spoken lan
guage. The General Training Module is for those planning to live or work in an
English-speaking country. The test is divided into four sections; each section tests a
different language skill—Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening
and Speaking sections are the same for the Academic and General Training Modules,
while the Reading and Writing sections differ.
HOW TO USE THIS BOOK
This book contains six complete practice tests for each training module; the tests
match the level of the actual IELTS. Each practice test is divided into four sections:
Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. This follows the order the sections
appear on the actual IELTS.
Although it is easier to work through the practice tests in that order, this is not
necessary. You can study only those sections that you want to study. You can study
them in any order.
STUDYING FOR THE ACADEMIC MODULE
If you plan to take the Academic Module, you can begin with an Academic Practice
Test and complete all four parts of the test. (See the chart on page v.) You can check
your answers by reading the Answer Explanations. You can check your answers at
the end of each section or at the end of all four sections. The Answer Explanations
will help you understand your incorrect responses.
If you are an Academic Module test taker, you do not have to take the General
Training Module practice tests. The General Training Module does not contain
anything you will see in the Academic Module of the IELTS. Of course, if you want
more practice with English, you can learn more English by studying these sections.
You can also improve your language skills and test-taking skills by studying Barron s
IELTS, 2nd Edition.