IELTS Speaking: Greeting the examiner

Summary

This lesson focuses on the initial phase of the IELTS speaking test, often referred to as Part 0. It covers the crucial first moments when a candidate greets the examiner and undergoes an identification check. The instructor outlines four typical questions asked during this phase and offers valuable tips for responding confidently and making a positive first impression. These tips include using contractions for higher-level pronunciation, speaking clearly and slowly, avoiding unnecessary information, and using English pronunciation for place names. The lesson emphasizes the importance of a friendly demeanor, eye contact, and a smile to convey confidence and ease.

Takeaways

• 😀 Greet the examiner politely and confidently when entering the IELTS speaking examination room.
• 🔍 Part 0 of the IELTS speaking test involves a greeting and an identification check before Part 1 begins.
• 🗣️ Respond to the examiner's introduction with a greeting and your full name, optionally using the examiner's name.
• 🙅‍♂️ Avoid using titles with first names in English when addressing the examiner.
• 💡 Use contractions like 'my name's' for higher level pronunciation in your responses.
• 🌟 Speak clearly and slowly when stating your name to ensure the examiner can understand it.
• 📍 For the question 'What can I call you?', provide a simple answer like 'Minh' or 'Just call me Minh'.
• 🏙️ When asked 'Where are you from?', give a straightforward answer with a brief additional detail if desired.
• 🚫 Do not expand excessively or ask questions back to the examiner during the identification check.
• 🗂️ For the identification check, promptly provide your ID and use phrases like 'Here you are' or 'Sure, here you are'.
• 👋 Remember to smile, make eye contact, and appear relaxed to create a good first impression.

Q & A

What is the first thing a candidate should do when entering the IELTS speaking examination room?

The first thing a candidate should do is greet the examiner and do an identification check, which is often referred to as 'Part 0' of the speaking test.

How many questions are there in Part 0 of the IELTS speaking test?

There are 4 questions in Part 0 of the IELTS speaking test.

What is the appropriate response to the examiner's greeting and introduction?

The appropriate response is to greet the examiner back, optionally using their name if you feel comfortable, and then stating your full name.

Is it necessary to use the examiner's name when greeting them?

It is not necessary to use the examiner's name when greeting them. You can simply say 'Good afternoon' if you prefer not to use their name.

What is the significance of using the contraction 'my name's' instead of 'my name is'?

Using the contraction 'my name's' is considered higher level pronunciation and is part of demonstrating good English skills during the test.

How should a candidate respond when asked what the examiner can call them?

A candidate can respond with 'You can call me [nickname or short name]', 'Just call me [nickname or short name]', or 'Please call me [nickname or short name].'

What is the purpose of asking the candidate where they are from in the IELTS speaking test?

The purpose of asking where the candidate is from is to gather basic information and to observe the candidate's ability to use correct grammar and pronunciation.

Is it acceptable to add extra information when stating your place of origin in the IELTS speaking test?

It is acceptable to add a little extra information, but it should not be excessive. A simple clause like 'which is in the east' is appropriate to show good grammar.

What should a candidate do when asked to show identification in the IELTS speaking test?

A candidate should provide their identification document and can also say 'Here you are', 'Sure, here you are', or 'Of course, here it is'.

Why is it important to use the English pronunciation of city names during the IELTS speaking test?

Using the English pronunciation of city names shows the examiner that the candidate is familiar with and can naturally use English pronunciation.

What is the final advice given to candidates before starting the IELTS speaking test?

The final advice is to watch the video again, practice answering the questions correctly, smile, relax, be confident, and start the test in the right way.