7 Slang Phrases for a 7+ on IELTS Speaking
Jessica BeckWhat vocabulary does the IELTS Examiner want to hear in IELTS Speaking Part 1?
If you want a 7 or higher for vocabulary on your IELTS Speaking test, you must show a range.
What is a range of vocabulary and how do you show it?
The range required for a 7+ means that your words must match the tone of the question, from informal and relaxed to formal and serious.
Thus, in Speaking Part 1, as the questions are personal and informal, your vocabulary must match that tone.
To show your ability to communicate informally in a natural, native way, try using some slang. This means using words or phrases that natives use in informal, daily speech, but, usually, is not taught in a textbook. This is why most students don’t use slang on the Exam, and end up with a 6 for vocabulary.
Here are native, informal, interesting phrases you can use for IELTS Speaking Part 1:
Instead of ‘like’ or ‘enjoy’, say:
- I’m a big fan of sitcoms.
- I’m all about science-fiction.
When describing your job, say:
- I don’t want a normal 9 to 5. I want a position where I can work remotely, with flexible hours. [a “9 to 5” is a job with working hours from 9am to 5pm]
- I always give 110% at my job. [ “give 110%” means to give something all your energy; to do your best]
When talking about school, say:
- Before an exam, sometimes I pull an all-nighter. [“pull an all-nighter” is to study all through the night and not sleep, or sleep very little]
- I was kind of a nerd in high school, actually. [a “nerd” is a smart person who studies a lot, and might not be considered cool]
- I played a lot of sports, so I guess I was a jock in high school. [ a “jock” is someone who plays sports a lot]
Choose four slang phrases from above. Write them down in your own sentences. Then, use them to answer these IELTS Speaking Part 1 questions:
- Do you work or are you a student?
- What do you like about your job/school?
- Were you a good student in high school?