Latest news with #InternationalEnglishLanguageTestingSystem
Time of India
18-07-2025
- General
- Time of India
Want a higher IELTS band score? Focus on building strong vocabulary with these powerful strategies
The International English Language Testing System ( ) is a challenging, significant, and unavoidable exam, consistently standing out as one of the most popular language tests. Want to study at a top university in London? A high IELTS score is the way forward. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Looking to land your dream job abroad? A strong IELTS score will make you stand out. Planning to build a career in language teaching? A solid IELTS score will make your résumé shine. IELTS is crucial for language, communication, and mobility across both professional and academic fields in today's globalised world. A good IELTS score is high on the priority list for many, yet knowing the right strategies to achieve that impressive band score is still a mystery to far too many. Just as grammar and structure are key to mastering a language, vocabulary is equally important. Grammar can be learned, memorised, and perfected through various sources, but developing a strong vocabulary takes real strategy and effort. Here are a few lesser-known tips to help you build the kind of vocabulary that could elevate your band score from a mid-level to 7, 8, or even 9. Why vocabulary matters more than you think Your word choice affects every single section of the IELTS exam. In writing, sophisticated vocabulary can transform a mundane essay into something that catches the examiner's attention. In speaking, varied language shows you're not just reciting memorised phrases but actually thinking in English. But here's where many students go wrong – they try to memorise long lists of random words without understanding how to use them naturally. It's like learning to drive by memorising the highway code without ever getting behind the wheel. Tired of too many ads? go ad free now Context is key The most effective way to build your IELTS vocabulary isn't cramming word lists the night before your exam. Instead, focus on learning words in context. When you encounter a new word like "ubiquitous," don't just learn its definition. Use it in sentences that relate to IELTS topics: "Social media has become ubiquitous among young people worldwide." This approach works because IELTS examiners can instantly tell when you're using a word you actually understand versus one you've just memorised. Authentic usage always wins. Find ways of saying the same thing differently IELTS loves testing your ability to paraphrase, especially in writing tasks where you need to restate the question in your introduction. This is where synonyms become your best friend. Take the simple phrase "the film was good" and transform it into "the movie was captivating," "the film was compelling," or "the cinema was exceptional." Building a strong synonym bank helps you avoid repetition and demonstrates the flexibility that examiners are looking for. It's like having multiple routes to the same destination – you'll never get stuck in traffic. Reading could be your weapon for victory One of the most enjoyable ways to expand your vocabulary is through extensive reading. Quality newspapers and reputable news websites offer excellent examples of formal yet accessible English. Magazines covering topics you're passionate about – whether that's technology, fashion, or environmental issues – will expose you to vocabulary you'll genuinely want to use. The key is active reading. Highlight unfamiliar words, look them up, and then try using them in your own sentences. This process transforms passive recognition into active usage. Don't shy away from keeping a vocabulary toolkit handy Keep a dedicated vocabulary notebook, but make it smart. For each new word, record its meaning, an example sentence, and any related words or synonyms. If you learn "mitigate," also note down "alleviate," "lessen," and "reduce." This creates a web of connected vocabulary that's easier to remember and use naturally. Focus particularly on academic vocabulary from the Academic Word List (AWL). These words appear frequently in IELTS texts and are exactly what examiners expect to hear from high-scoring candidates. Word families can save you hours Instead of learning individual words, think in word families. From the noun "decision," you can learn "decisive" (adjective), "decide" (verb), and "decisively" (adverb). This approach multiplies your vocabulary efficiently and helps you use different word forms naturally in both writing and speaking. Strategies section-wise Each IELTS section has its own vocabulary requirements. For Academic Writing Task 1, master words describing trends: "fluctuate," "plateau," "surge," and "decline." For Writing Task 2, focus on academic language for arguments: "substantial," "compelling," "detrimental," and "paramount." In Speaking Part 1, work on personal vocabulary for describing daily life and hobbies. For Parts 2 and 3, develop topic-specific vocabulary. If discussing technology, words like "innovation," "digitisation," and "automation" will impress examiners. Try using language like a native IELTS examiners particularly value collocations – words that naturally go together. Instead of saying "do a decision," learn "make a decision." Practice common phrasal verbs like "break down," "bring up," and "take after," which make your English sound more natural and fluent. Borrow the tortoise's consistency mentality Building strong vocabulary isn't about cramming before your exam date. It's about consistent daily practice. Even 15 minutes a day spent learning new words, using them in sentences, and reviewing previous vocabulary will compound over time. Join online communities and language forums where you can practice using new vocabulary with other students. This peer learning approach often reveals gaps in your knowledge and provides motivation to keep improving. Your vocabulary journey doesn't end with your IELTS exam. The sophisticated language skills you develop will serve you throughout your academic and professional life in English-speaking environments. Start today, stay consistent, and watch your band score climb.
Time of India
17-07-2025
- Time of India
IELTS scam: HC directs JMFC court to decide closure report afresh
Ahmedabad: The Gujarat high court has upheld the Mehsana district court's decision to remand a police closure report back to the magisterial court for a fresh decision in connection with the alleged IELTS scam that came to light in 2022. Earlier, the magisterial court had accepted the police's closure report, citing insufficient evidence. However, this was overturned by the district court earlier this year. Upholding the district court's verdict, Justice L S Pirzada directed the magisterial court to reconsider the closure report, without being influenced by any observations made by either the high court or the sessions court. The high court, however, quashed a portion of the sessions court's order that had instructed the Director General of Police (DGP) to have the matter investigated by "an honest and competent" officer. You Can Also Check: Ahmedabad AQI | Weather in Ahmedabad | Bank Holidays in Ahmedabad | Public Holidays in Ahmedabad The alleged scam surfaced in 2022 after four youths were caught crossing the Canada-US border illegally. During their appearance in a US court, they sought translators, stating they could not understand English—despite having officially cleared the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam. This contradiction led the US Consulate General in India to alert local authorities in Gujarat. The Consulate cited a TOI report from May 2021 highlighting irregularities in the IELTS score process. A preliminary inquiry led to the filing of an FIR at the Mehsana B Division police station against 45 individuals. The investigation was led by deputy superintendent of police Dinesh Chauhan, who filed a B summary (closure) report in April 2023, stating insufficient evidence. The Judicial Magistrate First Class (JMFC) accepted the report on Oct 9, 2024. However, the then Mehsana superintendent of police (SP), Achal Tyagi, raised objections and challenged the report before a sessions court, which overturned the JMFC's acceptance and ordered further investigation. That sessions court decision was then challenged in the high court by the accused persons.
Web Release
10-07-2025
- Health
- Web Release
Thinking of Studying Medicine Abroad? 7 Steps to Get Started
Studying medicine abroad is an exciting and life-changing opportunity – one that opens the door to global education, diverse clinical experiences, and an international medical career. But it also means making big choices and being prepared. To help aspiring doctors make the right choices, St. George's University, School of Medicine in Grenada, West Indies, has provided seven key guidelines that prospective doctors should take into account before embarking on this rewarding but challenging path. Know your why and what are your career goals Before pursuing a medical degree, it's essential to be fully committed to the journey. Studying medicine requires years of dedication, discipline, and resilience. Take time to reflect on your motivations – why you want to become a doctor and align them with your long-term career goals. Consider where you envision practicing medicine after graduation and what kind of impact you hope to make. Being clear about your desired specialty, location, and goals will guide your decision-making and help you stay focused throughout your studies. Additionally, studying abroad can significantly broaden your perspective. Exposure to different healthcare systems, cultures, and belief systems enhances your adaptability and cultural competence – skills that are increasingly valuable in today's global healthcare landscape. Strengthen Your Academic Foundation Success in medical school starts with a solid grasp of core subjects – biology, chemistry, and physics. Understanding the relevance of these subjects will not only help you meet entry requirements but also prepare you for the rigorous curriculum ahead. Maintaining a strong Grade Point Average (GPA) is crucial. Your GPA reflects your academic consistency and can significantly influence your eligibility for medical school. While GPA is important, many institutions also consider other factors such as letters of recommendation, teacher references, and extracurricular involvement. To boost your academic performance, consider strategies like: Staying on top of assignments Participating in study groups Asking questions in class Applying feedback to improve continuously Developing these habits early will position you for long-term success in your medical journey. Sharpen Your English Skills In places like Canada, the US, the UK, New Zealand, and Australia, medical graduates looking for placements must be able to speak and write English very well. One option is completing the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), which incorporates hearing, reading, writing, and speaking tasks to assess your English proficiency. Additionally, thousands of educational institutions across the globe recognize the results of the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). A good grasp of medical vocabulary will also ensure seamless communication among physicians and all healthcare professionals from different universities, hospitals, and other medical institutions. Choose the Right Medical School Make a shortlist of accredited medical schools that align with your career goals. Look beyond the curriculum – explore residency placements, campus life, and alumni stories to get a realistic view of what each school offers. Understand Licensing and Residency Pathways Each country has its own licensing requirements for medical practice, often involving country-specific exams. For example, if you plan to practice in the United States, you'll need to pass the USMLE – a three-step exam that tests your medical knowledge, clinical reasoning, and patient-focused skills. Research these pathways early to ensure your chosen medical school aligns with your long-term career and licensing goals. Make the Most of Education Fairs & Counselors Education fairs are a great way to speak directly with university representatives and get answers about programs, campus life, and application requirements. SGU regularly attends fairs across the GCC, offering valuable insights into its program/tracks and global clinical opportunities. You can also work with education counselors to simplify the application process and get help with visas, housing, and paperwork. Prepare Mentally and Financially Studying medicine abroad is both exciting and challenging. Be ready to adapt to a new environment, balance academics with self-care, and manage your wellbeing. Financially, explore scholarships, student loans, and budgeting strategies. Consider buying second-hand materials and tracking daily expenses to make your money go further. You should also be financially-prepared for your time abroad and explore any scholarship opportunities and student loan options that you maybe eligible for to help pay for your studies. Conclusion: A medical career is a long-term commitment – planning ahead academically, financially, and emotionally will set you up for success. For more information on the programs and tracks available through SGU School of Medicine, visit SGU's website.
Time Business News
06-06-2025
- Time Business News
Complete Guide to IELTS test Practice Online Free with Score
Students who want to study abroad must clear the IELTS test. If you want to study in an English-speaking country, it is a must to have a language proficiency test. Moreover, IELTS is among the top language exams. It is also accepted worldwide. However, it is not easy to pass the test. You must be good at all four sections of the exam to get a good band score. You also need to know the pattern, question types, tricks, and tips. Thus, this is where the IELTS practice test online free with score comes into the picture. The study abroad consultants conduct these to help students. In this article, you'll know everything about it. So, let's get started! IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is recognized worldwide for international education, work, and migration. If you want to get into your dream college, aspiring job, or settle abroad, you need to clear the test. The IELTS practice test online free with score can make your dream come true. It will conduct the exam to give you an idea of the real test environment. Moreover, it helps you identify your strengths and weaknesses. You can also hone your time management skills, reduce exam-day stress, and get better scores. You can also get a band prediction. It will show your performance and whether it meets your requirement s or not. There are many perks to IELTS test practice online. They help in improving your band score. But, how do you choose the right one? Read the next section to know how to pick the right test. With the increasing demand for preparation, you'll find many options. But not all of them will get the best results. So, it's important to find the right test to bring out the best in you. Thus, note the following pointers when choosing a test: Firstly, the right test must reflect the actual exam format. It should be the same as the real exam. The right format will give you a clear approach to answering on time. Secondly, the band prediction will only be useful if the scoring is apt. Thus, the practice exam must follow the same scoring as the actual IELTS test. Thirdly, the practice test answers must be in detail. Moreover, they must give a clear explanation. The students will then know the right answer and the reasoning behind it. Then, it will not be a guessing game anymore. Fourthly, the IELTS test is about time management. So, the practice test must also focus on it. The sections must have a time limit, and the exam duration must also be the same as the real one. It is because you get a real-life experience. Fifthly, not all students have easy access to everything. So, considering this, the IELTS practice must be easily accessible on all devices. Moreover, students who only have a computer or mobile can also access it. Now that you know the importance of an IELTS practice test online free with score, let's take a look at how to appear for it. Do you also want to take the practice test? If yes, that's great! In this section, you can learn the step-by-step process to appear for the IELTS practice test online: Firstly, you must choose the right platform from many options online. Make sure it meets all your requirements. Next, check for the IELTS practice test online for free with a score to get a band prediction. Secondly, though it is a practice test, it has a clear motive. So, set up the environment to appear for the test. First, you must sit at a table with a comfortable chair. Next, you must have a pen, pencil, and notepad for rough work. Finally, have a headset with a clear mic for no trouble. Thirdly, you must take the test. Start with IELTS practice test listening and reading sections as they are easier to score. You can attempt the writing section to answer the essays. Next, go for the speaking section as it is of less duration. This order of sections builds a flow and makes the best of time to answer with confidence. However, it is not a must to follow this. These are the three important steps to appear for the IELTS practise . Moreover, if you consider the scoring system: 8.0+ means you have excellent proficiency 7.0-7.5 is a strong candidate for academics or work migration 6.0-6.5 is a good foundation Below 6.0 means you need more practice. So, check your scores to know where you stand in the race. If you need any help with improving your scores, you can ask experts. In conclusion, the IELTS test is mandatory for anyone who wants to study, work, or migrate to countries abroad. However, clearing it is not easy and students look for help from experts. You can also try online practice tests for IELTS. They will help you prepare for it. They also have many perks. Firstly, they will help with IELTS practice test listening, reading, writing, and speaking sections. You can appear for the test and they will share feedback and scores. They will help you work on your weaknesses to improve your scores in the main exam. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Print
02-06-2025
- The Print
In Haryana, cops, lawyers & khaps unite to steer youth away from drugs, gangs & ‘donkey routes'
The event saw significant participation from Sarva Khap representatives, professionals, and community members, particularly from Sonipat and Rohtak, who expressed their commitment to saving Haryana's youths by joining the awareness campaign. The initiative was announced during an international seminar titled 'Combating Drug Menace, Donkey Route Migration, and Crime in Haryana: Role of Sarvakhap Panchayats, NGOs, and Professionals', held at the YMCA in New Delhi Saturday. New Delhi: The Haryana Professional Forum, a collective of professionals hailing from Haryana and working within or outside the state, has launched a statewide campaign to tackle the escalating issues of drug addiction, crime, and illegal migration to countries like the US through the 'donkey route'. The Khap panchayats have joined them too. The forum is led by a group of convenors including IPS officer and Delhi Police Special Commissioner Sagar Preet Hooda and Supreme Court lawyer Prateek Som. Speaking to ThePrint Monday, Som said the forum plans to divide the state into clusters, assigning groups of professionals to specific areas to conduct meetings with youths and raise awareness about the dangers of drug addiction, crime, and illegal migration. Som highlighted the interconnected nature of these issues, noting that drug addiction often leads to petty crimes as individuals seek money to fund their habits. 'When one doesn't get their dose of drugs due to a lack of money, they resort to small crimes. Once they land in jail, they become hardened criminals and often join crime gangs,' Som explained. He emphasised the need to educate youths about the health and societal consequences of drug addiction, warning that a failure to address it could lead to early death due to drug-related illnesses or criminal activities. The campaign also seeks to address the issue of illegal migration through the 'donkey route,' a term used to describe the dangerous and illegal journey undertaken by many youths to reach countries like the USA via unauthorised routes. This year alone, 111 youths hailing from Haryana were deported from the US, 'bringing shame to the state known for its rich cultural heritage of Doodh Dahi Ka Khana' (a diet of milk and curd), the forum said. The forum plans to educate young people about the risks involved in such migrations, encouraging them to instead pursue legal pathways by acquiring in-demand skills and passing required exams like International English Language Testing System (IELTS) to migrate legitimately. Som clarified that the campaign is entirely volunteer-based and involves no financial contributions. 'Those who want to contribute will have to give their time,' he said, stressing the importance of community involvement. While government agencies like the police and local administration are doing their part, real change requires awareness among youths, he said. 'Unless the youths are made aware of these issues, such efforts are unlikely to bear fruit.' Som highlighted the alarming statistics surrounding drug addiction in Haryana. A recent report revealed that seven districts bordering Punjab—Sirsa, Fatehabad, Panchkula, Ambala, Kurukshetra, Kaithal and Hisar—along with Yamunanagar account for 86.70 percent of drug cases reported in the state over the last five years. Health department officials admitted that the lack of checks on vehicles crossing these borders is a primary reason for the easy availability of drugs. According to health department data, between 2019 and 2023, 14.80 lakh people visited outpatient departments (OPDs) for drug addiction in Haryana, with 12.90 lakh of them from these eight districts. The campaign also seeks to address the growing issue of illegal migration through the 'donkey route'. Also Read: Now Haryana has a drug problem too. And unique ways of fighting it What happened in the seminar? Addressing the gathering, Sagar Preet Hooda underlined the urgency of the situation. 'The time has come for us to think about our families and society. The positive impact of the Green Revolution is fading, and today's youth are drifting away from agriculture in pursuit of a better lifestyle. We must step in before the situation worsens with drugs, crime, and gangs taking over,' he said. Hooda called for better coordination between Sarva Khap Panchayats, local administration, and professionals to raise awareness about the dangers of drugs, crime, and illegal migration. He urged parents to stay connected with their children, spend quality time with them, and encourage legal pathways for those aspiring to go abroad, such as pursuing higher education through legitimate means. Global Haryana Chamber of Commerce Chairman Balinder Kundu (USA chapter) and Karamjeet Singh Mann (Canada chapter) joined the seminar online, sharing their perspectives on illegal migration. Kundu and Mann highlighted the exploitation by agents who lure youths with false promises, often leading them to sell their land and take massive debts to fund their journeys. 'These youths end up living like labourers, hiding from authorities, with no contact with their families and no legal means to move freely due to the lack of valid visas or passports,' they said. (Edited by Ajeet Tiwari) Also Read: Haryana has no patience for woke narrative on drug abuse and trade. It's a war
