English teacher David does IELTS on computer

Last time, we spoke with English teacher Jay. This week, we’re taking with David. He began teaching ESL in Barcelona in 1992. Then, David went on to complete a Diploma of Education and high school teaching. After this, he completed a Masters in TESOL. David has been in many classrooms with many students over this time. Now, he teaches high stakes test preparation online. He also manages the online teachers at E2Language, and enjoys how a massive mission comes together! 

How did you find the overall journey, from walking into the door at the test centre until the end of your test? 

It was straightforward to find the test centre. And I noticed as I walked in how modern, bright and upbeat everything looked. I felt comfortable the whole time with the security, lockers, instructions, facilities and staff. My only nervousness was the normal pre-test worry. 

How was your experience with IELTS on computer (compared to a IELTS on paper test, or another test)? 

I found the computer test straight forward, and in fact I prefer this form of delivery. It is similar to the PTE-A computer delivery. 

How was your speaking test and/or Speaking examiner? 

He was a nice man, who asked an interesting selection of questions! 

Even as English language teachers, sitting a test might still be stressful. How were your stress levels? 

I  teach IELTS Listening and Speaking tasks, so I was not sure how well I would go in the Writing. The “unknown” element created stress for me, which may be something all students feel. 

Did you learn something during the test today that you can use for your students (any tips or tricks)? 

Yes. Stay calm. Plan your essay. Identify key words in the Reading prompts, and locate them in the text. It is not as scary as you imagine when taking the test for the first time. Relax and remember to breathe. 

At IELTS, we advise everyone to prepare for their test, even if they are native speakers. Did you prepare? If so, how? 

It is essential to prepare. I would recommend spending time practising writing responses, especially focusing on essay, paragraph and sentence structure. 

English teacher David gave some good tips. First, it’s essential to prepare. For example, by practising writing responses. Also, he said it’s good to stay calm. This is good advice when you take your next IELTS test.

It doesn’t matter if you’re an experienced IELTS teacher, or a first-time IELTS test taker - we have everything you need. Guide your students through their IELTS test with our teaching support, including practice activities, recommended training courses and helpful IELTS teaching tips. Be an inspirational IELTS teacher to your students with these classroom activities, teaching resources and assessment tips – all designed to help you and your students achieve success in IELTS.

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When you teach IELTS, you want information that is up-to-date. So, why not get it straight from the source? IDP Education is one of the proud co-owners of IELTS. Consequently, we have the tools that can help you teach your students. Expertly.

By teaching IELTS, you get to develop your English teaching career. And, at the same time, improve your employment prospects. Why? Because you can work all over the world. IELTS has test centres in more than 140 countries, which means teaching opportunities in over 140 destinations around the globe. Also, we have many test centres in Australia. We provide helpful IELTS teaching course tips and give you access to a global network of resources, workshop materials, and other IELTS teachers.