Preparing for the IELTS speaking test can be daunting, especially when you’re aiming for a high score. With countless resources available, choosing the right book is crucial to ensure you’re on the right path. Here, we’ve compiled a list of the 10 best IELTS books for speaking in 2024, each offering unique features and benefits to help you succeed.
1. The Official Cambridge Guide for IELTS
The Official Cambridge Guide for IELTS is often considered the gold standard for IELTS preparation. Developed by the creators of the IELTS test, this book covers all four sections, with a significant emphasis on speaking. It provides clear explanations of the speaking test format, sample questions, and tips for success. The accompanying DVD-ROM includes videos of IELTS speaking tests, allowing you to observe real candidates in action and understand what examiners are looking for.
Key Features:
Detailed breakdown of the speaking test format
Real-life speaking test examples
Practice exercises with model answers
Video content for better understanding
2. Barron’s IELTS Superpack
Barron’s IELTS Superpack is an all-in-one preparation package that includes everything you need to ace the IELTS speaking test. This comprehensive set includes four essential books, practice tests, and audio CDs. The speaking section is thoroughly covered, with practice exercises that mimic the actual test. Barron’s is known for its user-friendly approach, making it a great choice for self-study.
Key Features:
Comprehensive coverage of all IELTS sections
Practice tests with audio scripts
Focused speaking exercises
User-friendly content
3. IELTS Practice Tests Plus 2 with Key and CD Pack Paperback
For those looking for a book that offers extensive practice, IELTS Practice Tests Plus 2 is an excellent option. This book provides a series of practice tests that closely resemble the actual IELTS exam. The speaking section includes sample questions, model answers, and tips to help you improve your speaking skills. The CD pack provides audio for the listening and speaking sections, allowing you to practice with real test scenarios.
Key Features:
Practice tests that mirror the real exam
Sample speaking questions and model answers
CD pack with audio for speaking practice
Tips for improving your score
4. Cambridge IELTS 15 Academic Student's Book with Answers with Audio with Resource Bank (NEW EDITION)
The Cambridge IELTS 15 Academic Student's Book is part of a long-standing series known for its authenticity and reliability. This new edition offers updated content and fresh practice materials, including four complete academic tests. The speaking section is thoroughly covered, with a focus on fluency, coherence, and pronunciation. The Resource Bank provides additional practice opportunities, making it an invaluable resource for serious candidates.
Key Features:
Updated content with new practice tests
Focus on fluency and pronunciation
Additional practice resources
Reliable and authentic material
5. Target Band 7: IELTS Academic Module - How to Maximize Your Score (Fourth Edition)
Target Band 7 is specifically designed for students aiming to achieve a score of 7 or higher in the IELTS exam. The book offers strategic advice on how to approach the speaking test, with a focus on avoiding common pitfalls and maximizing your score. It includes practical tips, speaking exercises, and model answers that align with the test requirements.
Key Features:
Strategic advice for high scorers
Focus on avoiding common mistakes
Practical speaking exercises
Model answers for guidance
6. Road to IELTS
Road to IELTS is an online preparation course that includes interactive activities, practice tests, and tutorial videos. While not a traditional book, it’s a highly effective resource for those who prefer a digital approach to learning. The speaking section includes video tutorials, interactive exercises, and practice questions that help you build confidence and improve your speaking skills.
Key Features:
Interactive online platform
Video tutorials for speaking
Practice questions and exercises
Progress tracking and feedback
7. IELTS Book for General Training and Academic 2021-2022
This book is tailored for both General Training and Academic IELTS candidates, making it a versatile choice. It includes practice tests, speaking exercises, and tips for success. The speaking section is designed to help you build the necessary skills to communicate effectively and confidently in the test. The book’s up-to-date content ensures that you’re prepared with the latest materials.
Key Features:
Suitable for both General and Academic candidates
Up-to-date practice materials
Speaking exercises for confidence building
Comprehensive test coverage
8. Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS
Check Your English Vocabulary for IELTS is an essential resource for non-native speakers aiming to improve their vocabulary. While it covers all sections of the IELTS, the speaking section is particularly useful for expanding your vocabulary and improving your language use. The book includes exercises designed to help you practice and remember new words, making it a great supplementary resource.
Key Features:
Vocabulary-focused exercises
Practical for non-native speakers
Supplementary resource for speaking
Useful for expanding language skills
9. Official IELTS Practice Materials 1 with Audio CD
The Official IELTS Practice Materials 1 is another excellent resource from the IELTS test creators. This book provides official practice tests with model answers and examiner comments, giving you insight into what the examiners are looking for in the speaking test. The accompanying audio CD allows you to practice speaking with real test scenarios, helping you get used to the test format.
Key Features:
Official practice tests with model answers
Examiner comments for guidance
Audio CD for speaking practice
Insights into examiner expectations
10. IELTS Trainer Six Practice Tests with Answers and Audio CDs (3) (Authored Practice Tests)
IELTS Trainer offers six full-length practice tests with detailed explanations and answers. The speaking section includes exercises that help you practice answering questions under test conditions. The book also provides tips and strategies for each part of the test, helping you build confidence and improve your performance.
Key Features:
Six full-length practice tests
Detailed explanations and model answers
Speaking exercises for test conditions
Tips and strategies for success
Conclusion
Choosing the right IELTS book for speaking practice can make a significant difference in your preparation journey. Each of these books offers unique features that cater to different learning styles and needs. Whether you prefer a comprehensive guide like The Official Cambridge Guide for IELTS or a strategic approach like Target Band 7, these resources will equip you with the skills and confidence to excel in the IELTS speaking test in 2024. Happy studying!
