IELTS VIP Podcast Episode 10: Should I Get my IELTS Test Remarked?

Summary

In this IELTS VIP podcast episode, host Chris addresses the question of whether to get IELTS test scores remarked. He explains that while the IELTS system is not perfect and human examiners can make mistakes, remarks are not a guaranteed path to a higher score. Chris advises that students should only consider remarks if they have consistent feedback from experienced teachers, have previously scored higher, and have made significant efforts to improve. He warns against remarks driven by ego or desperation and emphasizes the importance of honest self-assessment and targeted skill improvement.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The IELTS test is not perfect and human examiners can make mistakes, but most scores are accurate reflections of a student's performance on test day.
• 📝 IELTS allows for remarks on speaking and writing scores, but remarks on reading and listening are not possible due to their objective nature.
• 🤔 Students should consider getting their scores remarked if there is a significant discrepancy between their expected and actual scores, especially if they have been consistently scoring higher in practice.
• 👨‍🏫 Working with a teacher with examining experience can provide valuable feedback and help determine if a remark is warranted.
• 🔍 Previous test scores are important to consider; if they are consistently lower, it may not be worth getting the current score remarked.
• 🚫 Avoid remarks if you did not perform well on test day, misunderstood the question, or did not finish the test.
• 🙅‍♂️ Do not go for a remark out of ego or desperation, or because others have scored higher than you.
• 💡 The best way to improve your IELTS score is to identify your weaknesses and work on them consistently, rather than relying on luck or hoping for a remark to raise your score.
• ⏳ There is no guarantee that a remark will result in a higher score, and it's important to be realistic about the likelihood of an increase.
• 💬 Honest self-assessment is crucial; do not let ego influence your decision to seek a remark.

Q & A

What is the main topic of the IELTS VIP podcast episode discussed in the transcript?

The main topic of the IELTS VIP podcast episode is whether or not one should get their IELTS test scores remarked, particularly focusing on speaking and writing scores.

Why did the podcast host mention Stitcher in the transcript?

The podcast host mentioned Stitcher to share that they use the app to listen to podcasts and to express gratitude to their listeners, as they noticed their podcast ranking high in the education chart on Stitcher.

What are the potential reasons for score variation in IELTS tests according to the podcast?

Score variation in IELTS tests can occur due to human factors, as the tests are taken and marked by humans who are not perfect and can have different performances on different test days.

Why might a student consider getting their IELTS scores remarked?

A student might consider getting their IELTS scores remarked if they believe there was a mistake made by the examiner or if they have consistently received higher scores in practice evaluations from an experienced teacher.

What advice does the host give regarding remarks if there is a significant difference in scores between two skills?

The host advises against getting a remark if there is a difference of two bands between two skills, as it is likely that the test has already been double-checked.

What is the host's stance on remarks as a means to improve IELTS scores?

The host believes that remarks are not a reliable method to improve IELTS scores and instead emphasizes the importance of identifying and improving specific weaknesses in one's English skills.

What should a student do if they are not satisfied with their IELTS score according to the podcast?

If a student is not satisfied with their IELTS score, they should evaluate their performance honestly, consider their previous scores, and work on improving their English skills rather than relying on remarks.

Why does the host discourage remarks based on comparisons with other people's scores?

The host discourages remarks based on comparisons with others because different individuals may have different abilities and performances on the test, and a higher score for someone else does not imply an error in one's own score.

What is the host's opinion on the effectiveness of repeated test attempts without improvement?

The host believes that repeatedly taking the test without addressing specific mistakes and weaknesses is unlikely to result in a higher score and that focused improvement efforts are necessary.

How can students get more information or help from the host after listening to the podcast?

Students can visit the host's website, IELTS Advantage, check out their YouTube channel, Facebook page, or Instagram for more information, or send an email to Chris or IELTS Advantage for personal help.