Lexical Resource

 

Lexical resource is one of the four criteria that are used to assess your speaking skills in the IELTS speaking exam. It refers to your ability to use a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures in your speech.

The lexical resource band in the IELTS speaking exam is divided into nine levels, from 1 to 9. A score of 1 indicates that your vocabulary is very limited and you often make grammatical errors. A score of 9 indicates that your vocabulary is very extensive and you use a wide range of complex grammar structures with ease.

Here is a more detailed description of each level of lexical resource:

  • Band 1: Vocabulary is very limited. The speaker uses simple, everyday words and makes many grammatical errors.
  • Band 2: Vocabulary is still limited, but the speaker is able to communicate their ideas, albeit with some difficulty.
  • Band 3: Vocabulary is somewhat limited, but the speaker is able to express themselves with a degree of fluency. However, they may still make some grammatical errors.
  • Band 4: Vocabulary is adequate for most communicative purposes. The speaker is able to express themselves with a degree of fluency and accuracy.
  • Band 5: Vocabulary is good. The speaker is able to use a wide range of vocabulary to express their ideas with fluency and accuracy.
  • Band 6: Vocabulary is very good. The speaker is able to use a wide range of vocabulary, including some complex words and phrases, with fluency and accuracy.
  • Band 7: Vocabulary is excellent. The speaker is able to use a wide range of vocabulary, including very complex words and phrases, with fluency and accuracy.
  • Band 8: Vocabulary is outstanding. The speaker is able to use a wide range of vocabulary, including very complex words and phrases, with fluency and accuracy.
  • Band 9: Vocabulary is indistinguishable from that of a native speaker. The speaker is able to use any vocabulary with fluency and accuracy.

As you can see, the lexical resource band in the IELTS speaking exam is a very important part of the assessment. In order to score highly in this area, you need to be able to use a wide range of vocabulary fluently and accurately.  

If you are struggling with lexical resource in your English speaking, there are a number of things you can do to improve. 

Try doing these things:

  • Read as much as you can in English. This is the best way to expose yourself to new vocabulary and grammar structures. When you read, try to focus on understanding the meaning of the words and phrases, as well as how they are used in context.
  • Learn new words and phrases on a regular basis. There are many different ways to do this. You can use vocabulary flashcards, read a dictionary or thesaurus, or watch English movies and TV shows with subtitles.
  • Pay attention to the words and phrases that you use most often in your speech. Are they the same words and phrases that you use when you write or read in English? If so, you may need to make an effort to use more variety in your speech.
  • When you are speaking, try to use more complex words and phrases. This doesn’t mean that you have to use obscure or difficult words. However, you should try to avoid using the same simple words and phrases over and over again.
  • Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas. This will make your speech sound more fluent and coherent.
  • Practice speaking English with other people. This is a great way to get feedback on your vocabulary and grammar.
  • Don’t be afraid to make mistakes. Everyone makes mistakes when they are speaking a foreign language. The important thing is to learn from your mistakes and keep practicing.

By following these tips, you can improve your lexical resource score in the IELTS speaking exam.

Here are some additional tips that you can follow:

  • Keep a vocabulary notebook. When you come across a new word or phrase, write it down in your notebook and make sure to include the definition and an example sentence. You can then review your notebook regularly to help you remember new vocabulary.
  • Use a thesaurus. A thesaurus can be a helpful tool for finding synonyms and antonyms for words. This can help you to vary your vocabulary and avoid using the same words over and over again.
  • Watch English-language movies and TV shows. This is a great way to hear native speakers using a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures. You can also pay attention to the subtitles to see how the words are spelled and pronounced.
  • Listen to English-language podcasts and radio shows. This is another great way to hear native speakers using a wide range of vocabulary and grammar structures. You can also find podcasts and radio shows that focus on specific topics, which can help you to learn new vocabulary related to your interests.
  • Join an English conversation club or class. This is a great way to practice speaking English with other people. You can also get feedback on your vocabulary and grammar from your classmates and teacher.
  • Take an online English course. There are many different online English courses available that can help you improve your vocabulary and grammar. These courses can be a great way to learn new vocabulary and grammar at your own pace.

By following these tips, you can improve your lexical resource score in the IELTS speaking exam.