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.”