How can we make our English speaking more fluent, so we can pass with IELTS band score 7?

If you require a band 7 you will first be marked on fluency and coherence. 

This means, you need to be able speak at length without noticeable effort or loss of coherence. You may demonstrate language-related hesitation at times, with some repetition or self-correction. You can use a range of connectives and discourse markers with some flexibility.

Next, you will be graded on lexical resource.

Lexical resource means the variety of words available in your vocabulary ‘word bank’. To gain a band 7, you will need to be able to use your vocabulary resources flexibly to discuss a variety of topics. You will also be able to use some less common and idiomatic vocabulary.

Furthermore, you will show some awareness of style and collocation. You will be able to paraphrase effectively. However, you might make some inappropriate word choices.

Thirdly, you will be marked on grammar and accuracy.

To score a band 7 you will be confident in using a range of complex structures with some flexibility. You will also be able to frequently produce error-free sentences. However, you may make some grammatical mistakes.

Lastly, you will be graded on your pronounciation. 

To get band score 7 you will be able to use a range of pronunciation features.

Secondly, you will show some effective use of features but this is not sustained.

Thirdly, you can generally be understood throughout. However, mispronunciation of individual words or sounds may reduce clarity at times and your accent may have a slight effect on your intelligibility.

To score a band 8, it will be easy to understand you throughout the speaking test and your accent will not affect your intelligibility.

Important words: 

1. coherence  – logical and consistent. 
2. lexical resource – word bank
3. collocation – words that are often said together e.g. salt and pepper.
4. paraphrase – speak or write a sentence with different words without changing the meaning.
5. intelligible / intelligibility – able to be understood