Chapter 3.4 : Listening Test - Section 4

In this part of the test, you'll hear an academic talk, such as a lecture, which is given by one person. So, the topic is academic and also quite detailed and in-depth. For example, the speaker might give an overview of a field of study, or describe a research project that he or she has been involved in. The talk is also given in an educational setting, like a university and because it is an academic talk, the language can be quite formal. As with all other sections of the Listening Test, you'll have to listen and answer 10 questions. So why are you listening? Well, you are being tested on your ability to understand the information and opinions that the speaker provides. You also have to show that you can follow the arguments being presented.

Notes Completion:

 

In this type of task, you need to complete a set of notes by filling in the gaps. Notes are a record of the main points and structure of what you listen to. In this task, you also need to keep within a word limit.

How to do notes completion tasks:

Before you listen:

• Step 1: Read the instructions carefully. Check or see how many words and/or numbers can you write?

• Step 2: Read the notes task to get an understanding of the facts and information presented.

• Step 3:  Look at the gaps and try to predict what types of words or numbers might fit.

• Step 4:  Highlight any keywords you can see and try to think of synonyms.

While you listen:

• Step 5: Listen for the keywords/synonyms you have thought of to help you find the answer, as well as the sub-headings, to guide you. You will hear the speaker say the words or numbers that you need to write in the same order as you can see in the questions.

• Step 6: Write the answer in the gap.

EXERCISE 

Listen to part of a talk about computers and type the correct/missing words to complete the gaps below.  Write NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER for each answer.

https://courses.edx.org/asset-v1:UQx+IELTSx+3T2015+type@asset+block@1.6.6.4-_Notes_Completion_Practice-V2.mp3

31. The ENIAC computer was very large and heavy (it weighed more than ....... tons).
 

32. It needed a large staff to run it and change its programs. It used a lot of power so an advanced ...... needed to be fitted.
 

33. The use of easily broken vacuum ........ resulted in a lot of time spent fixing the computer.

34. ENIAC's .......... couldn't match that of today's computers.

ANSWERS:

31. thirty or 30

32. cooling system (Not "cooling" only, must be "cooling system")

33. tubes

34. speed

Listening for Signpost Language:

Signs are used in academic talks, too, and you will see them in the talk in Section 4 of the IELTS Listening Test. The speaker uses special language, which we call signpost language, to organise the talk and help you follow the argument. This signpost language can have a number of different functions. Let's see just a couple of examples. 

As you listen, think about the function of what the speaker says. Why is this language being used and what type of information is being given? For example, the Speaker says: "In the lecture today we’ll look at nuclear fusion reactions" . So, what did you think? Well, the function of this extract can be described as giving the subject of the talk. 

A speaker could use this pattern of words at the start of a talk to let the audience know what the overall subject of the presentation will be. It makes the audience feel more sure that they are in the right room and listening to what they wanted to hear about. It also helps understanding by setting a context for the talk, so the audience may start predicting some of the vocabulary and content that they might hear.

Let’s look at one more example. The Speaker says:  "Now let’s turn to the question of...." 

‘Now let’s turn to..’ is one of the many ways in which a speaker can signal that they are moving on to a new point or topic. This would be used in the middle of a talk, to tell the listeners that a new topic or point about the overall lecture subject is going to be introduced and talked about from now. So, in terms of the lecture content, the listeners know exactly where the talk is going. If you can understand a wide variety of signpost language you will be able to follow the speaker more easily and not lose your place. Also, you will be able to predict what is coming next, which makes understanding a lot easier in the IELTS Listening Test. 

EXAMPLES:

• In the lecture today we'll look at.....
• There are three main topics that I will focus on in my talk... 

 -> These are explaining which topics will be covered in the lecture.

• Now, let's turn to the question of... 
• Now, in the next part of the lecture... 
• I'd now like to evaluate... Now, let's move on to... 

-> The speaker is changing to a new topic.

• So, why do we need...? 
• So, what exactly is...? 
• You might be wondering why...?

-> Asking a question about a main point that will be answered in the next part of the talk/lecture.