Structured IELTS Academic & General Training Course (8-Week Plan) by Surinder Singh
IELTS 8-Week Course Plan
Week 1: Introduction & Diagnostic
Objective: Familiarize students with IELTS and assess initial level
Topics:
Overview of IELTS Academic and General Training
Test format, scoring system, band descriptors
Strategies for all four modules
Diagnostic test (all modules) to identify strengths and weaknesses
Activities:
Group discussion on test experience
Self-assessment checklist
Introduce study and practice materials
Week 2: Listening Skills – Part 1
Objective: Develop active listening strategies
Topics:
Understanding question types: multiple choice, map/diagram labeling, matching
Keyword identification and prediction
Note-taking strategies
Activities:
Listening exercises (short dialogues, monologues)
Pair work: predict answers before listening
Mini quiz on keywords and paraphrasing
Week 3: Reading Skills – Part 1
Objective: Build reading comprehension and speed
Topics:
Skimming and scanning techniques
Understanding main ideas, details, and inference
Question types: True/False/Not Given, matching headings, multiple choice
Activities:
Timed reading exercises
Highlighting key information
Vocabulary building: synonyms and paraphrasing
Week 4: Writing Skills – Part 1
Objective: Strengthen Task 1 writing (Academic & General Training)
Topics:
Academic: describing graphs, charts, tables, diagrams
General: letter writing – formal, semi-formal, informal
Structure, tone, and key phrases
Activities:
Writing exercises with sample questions
Peer review and feedback
Focus on grammar and coherence
Week 5: Writing Skills – Part 2
Objective: Improve essay writing for Task 2
Topics:
Essay types: opinion, discussion, problem-solution, advantages-disadvantages
Essay structure: introduction, body, conclusion
Cohesion, coherence, and lexical resource
Activities:
Timed essay writing practice
Vocabulary exercises for common IELTS topics
Teacher feedback and corrections
Week 6: Speaking Skills
Objective: Enhance fluency, accuracy, and confidence in speaking
Topics:
Part 1: Introduction and interview questions
Part 2: Long turn (cue card)
Part 3: Discussion and abstract questions
Activities:
Mock speaking tests in pairs and groups
Pronunciation and intonation practice
Feedback sessions focusing on grammar, vocabulary, and fluency
Week 7: Integrated Practice & Mock Test
Objective: Apply skills under timed conditions
Topics:
Full-length listening, reading, writing, and speaking practice
Time management techniques
Error analysis and targeted improvement
Activities:
Timed mock tests for each module
Review and analysis of common mistakes
Individual improvement plans
Week 8: Revision & Exam Strategies
Objective: Consolidate knowledge and refine test-taking skills
Topics:
Quick review of all modules
Final tips for maximizing band scores
Stress management and confidence building
Activities:
Mini-tests and drills for weak areas
Group discussion on exam strategies
Personalized feedback and goal-setting for test day
Optional Extensions (Weeks 9–12):
Focused practice on weak modules
More mock tests with feedback
Advanced vocabulary and grammar workshops
One-on-one coaching sessions

