11.30.2023 - By Ben Worthington
In this tutorial, we explain 10 Band 9 pronunciation features in IELTS Speaking.
We look at:
Pronunciation features to master for Band 9 in IELTS Speaking
Useful speaking techniques for each pronunciation feature
Sample questions with model answers showing Band 9 pronunciation features
Achieving Band 9 in IELTS Speaking: Mastering Pronunciation Features
Expanded Explanation of Pronunciation Features
Intonation: This refers to the rise and fall of your voice when you speak. It helps convey different meanings and emotions. For example, rising intonation can indicate a question.
Stress: This involves emphasizing certain words in a sentence to convey meaning or show importance. For instance, stressing key words can highlight your main point.
Rhythm: This is about the pattern of sounds in speech, including the timing and flow. Natural rhythm makes your speech sound fluent and easy to follow.
Linking: This is about smoothly connecting words together in speech. It makes your speaking sound more fluid and natural, like native speakers.
Sound Reduction: This involves using contractions (like “I’m” instead of “I am”) and elisions (omitting certain sounds), which is common in everyday English speech.
Pronouncing Word Endings: Ensuring that the endings of words are clearly spoken is important for clarity. For example, the difference between ‘used’ and ‘use’.
Clarity of Vowel Sounds: Accurate vowel sounds are essential for being understood. Different vowel sounds can change the meaning of words (like ‘ship’ vs. ‘sheep’).
Consonant Sounds: Correctly pronouncing consonants ensures that your words are clearly understood. For example, differentiating between ‘bat’ and ‘pat’.
Articulation: This means speaking clearly, without mumbling, so that every word can be easily understood.
Natural Speech: Using all these features effortlessly and confidently, like a native speaker, without sounding forced or unnatural.
Sample Questions with Model Answers
Intonation
Q: “Do you think technology is changing education?”
A: “Absolutely. Technology is revolutionizing education.”
Stress
Q: “What are the benefits of exercise?”
A: “Exercise greatly improves health.”
Rhythm
Q: “Why should we learn about other cultures?”
A: “It enhances our understanding and fosters tolerance.”
Linking
Q: “Why is public transport important?”
A: “It improves city mobility and reduces congestion.”
Sound Reduction
Q: “What role do hobbies play?”
A: “They’re a necessary break from daily stress.”
Pronouncing Word Endings
Q: “Why is it important to use renewable energy?”
A: “It’s crucial for sustainable development.”
Clarity of Vowel Sounds
Q: “What are online shopping advantages?”
A: “It offers convenience and variety.”
Consonant Sounds
Q: “Why should people vote?”
A: “To support their democratic rights.”
Articulation
Q: “What impact does globalization have?”
A: “It enhances global trade opportunities.”
Natural Speech
Q: “How can we address climate change?”
A: “Through innovative policies and community action.”