IELTS Listening Section 3
In this section, you will learn how Section 3 works and how to answer
different question types confidently
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What to Expect in Section 3
Understand how Section 3 works
Learn about academic discussions and topics
See what skills you need to follow ideas and opinions
How to Answer Multiple Choice Questions
Learn how to follow ideas
Discover how multiple choice questions work
Understand what you need to listen for
Common Mistakes
Understand how to avoid losing marks
Learn why mistakes happen in discussions
Understand how to avoid losing marks
What to Expect in Section 3
Section 3 of the IELTS Listening test can be challenging. It usually includes a conversation between two or more people in an academic situation.
For example, students may discuss a project or plan a presentation. The language is more difficult, and the speakers may change ideas quickly.
Types of Discussion Topics
You’ll hear a discussion between students or between students and a tutor.
These conversations include opinions, suggestions, and decisions, so it’s important to follow the discussion carefully.
Here’s types of Discussion topic you can expect:
Student Discussions & Projects
Information about student work and tasks
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Presentation preparation
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Research topics
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Group projects
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Tutor Guidance & Feedback
Information about help from a tutor
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Assignment advice
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Feedback on work
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Study support
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Making Decisions & Solving Problems
Information about making choices and solving study problems
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Choosing research methods
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Dividing tasks
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Managing deadlines
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Opinions & Academic Skills
Information about sharing and developing ideas
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Agreeing and disagreeing
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Giving suggestions
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Explaining ideas
How to Answer Multiple Choice Questions
In Section 3, multiple choice questions can be challenging because the options are often similar, and you must follow a group discussion with two or three speakers where opinions change and academic vocabulary is used. You need to listen carefully to identify the final decision.
Example:
Correct Answer - B
Listen for the final decision - not the first idea.
Step by Step Guide
MCQ
Step-by-Step
Guide
1
Read Carefully
2
5
4
3
Predict ideas
Wait fot the final decision
Listen for agreement signals
Ignore distractors
Key phrases that show opinions, agreement, and final decisions in group discussions.
Language to Listen For in Listening Section 3
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