Enhancing IELTS Speaking: Mastering Fluency and Cohesion
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Welcome, IELTS students! In today’s tutorial, we will delve into two critical components of the IELTS speaking test: fluency and cohesion. Achieving a high score in these areas often hinges on your ability to use connectives and discourse markers effectively. As highlighted in the IELTS band descriptors, particularly for a Band 7, candidates must employ a range of connectives and discourse markers with some flexibility.

Understanding Connectives and Discourse Markers

Connectives and discourse markers are essential in constructing logical and cohesive speech. They help in linking ideas smoothly and showcasing a logical progression of thoughts, similar to structuring paragraphs in writing. Let’s explore how these elements can enhance your speaking abilities.

Sample Answer Analysis

To illustrate the use of connectives and discourse markers, consider this sample answer: “Learning a new language offers significant benefits. For instance, it can provide numerous employment opportunities, especially if the language is widely used in business. Moreover, it allows you to build lasting relationships with people worldwide, which is particularly advantageous when travelling.”

This response uses phrases like “For instance” and “Moreover” to add information and examples, enhancing the coherence of the speech. These are crucial elements in achieving a higher band score.

Practical Tips for Using Connectives

When aiming for clarity and coherence, it’s important to use a variety of connectives. Here are some examples and their functions:

• Addition: and also, besides, furthermore, moreover

• Examples and Emphasis: for example, to illustrate, for instance, to be specific

• Order and Sequencing: first, second, finally

• Summarising and Concluding: in summary, to sum up, in short, in conclusion

It’s crucial to use these appropriately; for example, “moreover” and “furthermore” are typically more suitable for writing than speaking. In spoken English, using simpler phrases like “and also” or “besides” can sound more natural.

Developing Fluency: Avoiding Fillers

A common issue students face is overusing fillers such as “um” and “ah.” While these can be used to buy time, they should not be relied upon excessively as they can disrupt fluency. Instead, practice speaking at length and recording yourself to become comfortable with extended speech. This practice will help in developing both confidence and competence, crucial elements for a smooth and fluent speaking performance.

Discourse Markers: Adding Depth and Clarity

Discourse markers play a pivotal role in making your speech more engaging and structured. Some useful markers include:

• Introducing Opinions: I think, I believe, in my opinion

• Prefacing Statements: Actually, I must admit, to be honest

• Changing or Returning to a Topic: Anyway, so, well

For example, you might say, “I must admit, learning a new language can be challenging, but the benefits are immense.” This phrase not only adds a personal touch but also prepares the listener for your main point.

Conclusion

To wrap up, mastering the use of connectives and discourse markers is essential for scoring well in the IELTS speaking test. It not only enhances your fluency and cohesion but also makes your responses more engaging and logical. For more tips and detailed strategies on improving your IELTS speaking skills, visit IELTSPodcast.com).

Practice regularly, record yourself, and strive for a natural yet structured use of language. Remember, the goal is to communicate your ideas clearly and confidently, making the conversation enjoyable for both you and the examiner.