[WATCH NOW] IELTS Reading learning path to effectively increase band score

1.1 Information you need to know about the IELTS Reading test

Test structure: The IELTS Reading test is divided into three reading passages of increasing difficulty. The total number of questions for this part is 40. The types of questions in the reading test include:

• Fill in the blank

• Connecting sentences

• Multiple choice

• True/False/Not given

Time: 60 minutes

Scoring method: The test consists of 40 questions, corresponding to a maximum of 40 points. Each correct answer is worth 1 point

You need to understand the structure of the test first to build a study path for IELTS Reading.

>>> Xem thêm: Thang điểm bài thi IELTS reading

Learn about IELTS Reading assessment criteria with IDP

1.2 Take a practice test to know your level

To have an accurate IELTS Reading learning path and practice effectively, you need to know what band score you are at. You can register for a free IELTS Reading test at English centers or take an online IELTS practice test at IDP. Once you have the results, you can start building a path that suits your level.

Take a test to determine your abilities and set goals.

2.1. Preparation phase for foundational knowledge

Objective:

• Master grammar

• Spend 2 hours each day for review

Knowledge to learn: Focus on important grammar points.

Practice method: Besides reinforcing vocabulary and honing grammar, reading practice is the most important in the IELTS Reading study plan. To avoid boredom, you should alternate reading various materials and topics. For example, in the morning, you can read newspapers, magazines, and news with economic, social, or scientific content. In the evening, spend time reading stories and short entertaining articles.

Reading through books and newspapers is a useful way to improve your reading skills

2.2. Practice phase for each type of question

Objective:

• Familiarize with question types and test structure

• Develop strategies for each corresponding question type

Content to learn:

Practice method: Practice test-taking techniques:

• Skimming

  - Skim to find the main idea of the passage: Focus on the title, subtitles, the first and last sentences.

• Scanning - Skim to find exact information: Important keywords such as proper nouns, numbers, dates, connectors…

Hone skimming and scanning skills during test preparation

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Tips for practicing Reading skills with IDP

2.3 Practice phase for mock tests and exam preparation in the IELTS Reading study plan

Objective:

• Achieve a high band score from 6.5-8.0

• Practice completing mock tests and be ready for the actual exam

Content and study method:

• Focus on reviewing and solving tests according to the standard test format.

• Time yourself while doing the test.

• Note common mistakes to correct them early.

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5 mistakes to avoid when taking the IELTS Reading test

Suitable study materials are the Cambridge IELTS books from 5 - 16. These books are updated annually to ensure they provide the latest test format for you. To effectively practice with these books, you can solve the tests as follows:

• Solve the test the first time with timed conditions to determine your actual ability

• Solve the test the second time without time limits to see if you can make a breakthrough

• Solve each passage with timed conditions

>>> See more: How to manage time effectively in the IELTS Reading test

After solving the tests, you will identify your mistakes. Focus on correcting those mistakes and continue solving the tests in the same order. Additionally, to get used to exam pressure, you should register for mock tests at reputable IELTS test organizers like the British Council or IDP. This practice is necessary to assess your psychological readiness before the important exam.

Solve the test the first time with timed conditions to get used to the pressure

Besides building a scientific IELTS Reading study plan, you need to note the following points:

• Choose a learning method that suits you: Each person will have different times and ways of learning. Choose the vocabulary and grammar method that interests you the most to optimize efficiency.

• Persevere every day: To enhance memory and brain processing, spend at least 2 hours a day practicing reading English in phase 1 and solve 2-4 tests/day during the sprint phase.

• Don't rush to do tests: You need to equip yourself with a solid foundation of vocabulary and grammar before doing tests. This will help you avoid feeling overwhelmed and discouraged by the difficulty of the tests.

• In the initial stage of doing tests, don't time yourself but do your best.

• During the test-solving process, instead of looking up each word, you should take notes and continue the flow of the test. Then, start looking up and learning the words.

• When you make grammar or vocabulary mistakes, take notes and solve the test again after 1-2 days to check your progress.

Perseverance is the most essential thing to conquer IELTS

Introducing indispensable resources in the IELTS Reading study plan

Below are some IELTS Reading study resources you can refer to:

• Study Reading through short stories at Short Stories at East of the Web

• Practice reading English through short news articles at Breaking News English.

• Search for news articles on The Wall Street Journal – America's number one daily newspaper to practice reading.

• Use free IELTS practice materials at IDP.

• Some other online IELTS Reading practice websites such as Into the book Using English,...

In summary, to build an effective IELTS speaking practice plan, you need to determine your ability and goals. Then, this process will start with reviewing grammar and vocabulary from basic to advanced, solving tests by section, and solving complete tests. See more:

• IELTS Listening study plan

• IELTS study plan for beginners

Hopefully, with our suggestions, you have enough information to build an IELTS Reading study plan that suits you best.