IELTS Preparation Program

(CRICOS Code 021674F)

The Academic English program is a full-time IELTS test preparation course for students at intermediate level or above. This program thoroughly prepares the student for all aspects of the IELTS examination – reading, writing, listening and speaking.

A specific IELTS (International English Language Testing System) score is now required by many Australian and British universities and colleges as a qualification for entry into a formal program. It is a comprehensive test of English language proficiency designed to assess the ability of non-native speakers. It is highly recommended for those who need to use English in an Academic or Professional context.

The program consists of sixteen modules of work, each with a particular functional grammar and topic area focus. The purpose of this is to expose students to a wide range of language, which is logically and cohesively organised. Within this format the following skills are taught and practised:

• Academic speaking skills (social and transactional conversation, discussion, giving oral reports, interview skills);
• Academic listening skills (understanding lectures, social and transactional conversations, news broadcasts, TV and movies; note-taking);
• Academic reading skills (e.g. scanning and skimming; identifying main ideas and details; summarising; identifying writer’s opinions); and
• Academic writing skills (e.g. constructing cohesive paragraphs; writing essays; writing summaries; describing tables and graphs; using academic writing functions such as explaining causes and effects, describing processes, comparing and contrasting).

Skills covered include:

• Listening and Note Taking;
• Academic Reading and Writing;
• Vocabulary Extension;
• Study Skills;
• Report and Essay Writing;
• Library and Research Skills.

IELTS exams are held every four weeks in Brisbane, and Shafston can assist you to register for the exam. Each module of the exam is graded separately as a ‘Band Score’. The module scores are added together to provide an overall Band Score. Band scores range from 1 (non user) to 9 (expert user). Most universities and institutions of higher education will ask for an overall Band Score (generally between 5.5 for undergraduate programs to 6.5 for post-graduate programs).

Students have regular exam practice sessions using past IELTS papers. They learn IELTS exam techniques and strategies for achieving the best possible result. Students can join this program on any Monday. All students are tested before joining this program.

IELTS Unit Overview

IELTS Preparation Sample Timetable

Sample Homework

• Are you a risk-taker? (from text book)
• Vocabulary review activity.
• Question Formation: preparation for reading activity.
• Complete video review.
• Proofing your writing. Error-correction (writing).
• Diary or Writing Task.

Afternoon Clubs

• Cooking Club
• Music Club
• Pronunciation Club
• Sports Club
• Film Club