IELTS Speaking: How to Sound More Natural
Description: Move beyond textbook English. Learn tone, intonation, and everyday phrases to sound natural in IELTS Speaking.
Introduction
Sounding natural doesn’t mean slang—it means your English flows like real conversation. Examiners reward this under Fluency & Coherence and Pronunciation. Here’s how to shift from stiff textbook answers to lively, authentic speaking.
A. Everyday Expressions (Safe, Not Slang)
- I’m into… (interests)
- Once in a while… (frequency)
- It keeps me… (effects)
- To be honest… (opinion softener)
Example: “I’m into acoustic music. Once in a while I go to live shows—it keeps me inspired.”
B. Intonation & Stress
- Go up for yes/no questions: Do you like movies? ↑
- Stress key content words: I love early morning walks.
- Use falling tone to finish strongly.
Drill: Record the same answer twice—flat vs stressed. Notice the difference.
C. Linking in Chunks
Group words: going to → gonna (sparingly), want to → wanna. Use when relaxed, not in every sentence.
Mini-drill: Shadow 3 lines from a podcast, imitate chunking.
D. Show Personality
- Add feelings: It makes me…, I find it…, I was amazed by…
- Use storytelling, not lists.
- Smile—yes, examiners notice tone.
E. Common Pitfalls
- Over-formal: “It is of paramount importance…”
- Over-slang: “Yo, that’s lit.”
- Copying accents unnaturally.
5-Minute Routine
- Answer 3 easy Part 1 questions.
- Add one natural phrase + one feeling each.
- Replay: does it sound conversational?
Conclusion
Natural speaking = simple phrases + clear stress + a touch of personality. It shows examiners you can really communicate, not just recite.
CTA: Want natural feedback? Join Englishehe’s free group speaking class. Tap Register on our website.
