Hi, I’m Daniel Hughes, and today I’m going to help you master one of the most powerful areas of the IELTS Speaking test — Lexical Resource.
This part of the marking criteria measures how well you use vocabulary naturally, accurately, and flexibly to express your ideas. It’s not about using rare or complicated words, but about choosing the right words for the right context.
As the British Council explains in its official IELTS Speaking band descriptors, Band 7 candidates “use vocabulary resource flexibly to discuss a range of topics,” while Band 8–9 speakers “use idiomatic language naturally and precisely.” Let’s break down exactly how to get there.
In simple terms, your Lexical Resource is your vocabulary range and control.
Examiners assess how effectively you:
The IELTS.org test overview confirms that vocabulary is tested in all four parts of IELTS, but it’s especially noticeable in the Speaking and Writing sections. So improving your word range benefits multiple parts of the test.
Here’s how your vocabulary use translates into band levels:
Band | Descriptor Summary |
Band 6 | Uses adequate vocabulary, but errors and repetition are common. |
Band 7 | Uses less common and topic-specific vocabulary with some flexibility. |
Band 8–9 | Uses a wide range naturally, with accurate collocations and idiomatic expressions. |
If you want to hear real examples of Band 7–9 candidates, visit the IDP IELTS Speaking page and listen to their sample interviews. You’ll notice how natural, not robotic, their vocabulary sounds.
The IELTS Speaking test covers familiar topics — education, technology, environment, health, culture, and more.
So, instead of memorising lists, group your learning by topic. For example:
Topic | Useful Vocabulary |
Education | curriculum, assessment, discipline, enrolment |
Environment | pollution, renewable energy, sustainable, conservation |
Technology | innovation, device, connectivity, artificial intelligence |
Health | well-being, balanced diet, healthcare system, preventive care |
The official IELTS sample questions on IELTS.org are perfect for identifying which themes appear most often.
Collocations are words that commonly go together, such as make a decision, take a risk, or do homework. Using correct collocations helps you sound natural and fluent.
For instance, don’t say “strong rain” — say “heavy rain.”
Try noting five new collocations per topic and practising them in sentences.
Repetition lowers your score. If you’ve already said “happy,” you could later say “glad,” “pleased,” or “delighted.”
Likewise, instead of “a big problem,” say “a serious issue” or “a major concern.”
Examiners appreciate variety because it shows linguistic flexibility — one of the key signs of a Band 7+ candidate.
Idioms and phrasal verbs are fine, but only if they sound natural in context.
For example:
“I was over the moon when I passed my driving test.”
“I decided to cut down on junk food this year.”
Don’t overload your answers with expressions — one or two idioms used naturally per response are enough.
Incorrect | Better Alternative |
People are very angry about pollution. | People are frustrated or concerned about pollution. |
I’m happy with my job. | I’m satisfied or content with my job. |
It’s bad for the environment. | It’s harmful or damaging to the environment. |
As you practise, always focus on precision — choosing the most accurate word for your meaning.
Examiner: What kind of job would you like to do in the future?
Candidate: I’d like to work in digital marketing because it’s a fast-evolving field that allows creativity and analysis. I’m particularly interested in how social media campaigns influence consumer behaviour.
Examiner: What skills are important for that job?
Candidate: I think adaptability and communication are vital. You also need analytical thinking to interpret data effectively.
Notice the use of topic-specific terms like digital marketing, consumer behaviour, and analytical thinking. This is what strong Lexical Resource sounds like.
Ask yourself after each speaking practice:
1️⃣ What is Lexical Resource in IELTS Speaking?
It’s the range and accuracy of vocabulary you use to express ideas clearly and naturally.
2️⃣ How can I improve my Lexical Resource quickly?
Practise speaking on common IELTS topics and review new vocabulary daily using official IELTS.org sample questions.
3️⃣ Are idioms required for a high score?
No, but using simple idiomatic expressions correctly can boost your naturalness.
4️⃣ Should I use very difficult words?
Not necessarily. The IDP IELTS guidance says examiners value clarity and context over complexity.
5️⃣ How many new words should I learn each week?
Aim for 20–30 topic-based words, then focus on using them in sentences rather than memorising definitions.
Your Lexical Resource shows how flexibly and precisely you can use English. Focus on using varied, topic-appropriate, and natural language rather than rare or forced words.
Next, move on to Grammatical Range & Accuracy to strengthen sentence control and combine grammar with vocabulary effectively.
If you’re just joining, start from the IELTS Speaking Overview to understand how all the scoring criteria connect.
Spend a few minutes weekly reading real-life English materials — event flyers, instructions, or customer emails. This builds automatic recognition of GT-style vocabulary and sentence patterns.
Band 8–9 GT candidates show broad topic familiarity. They don’t translate every word; they infer meaning based on context. Their exposure to diverse English materials makes them faster and more accurate under test conditions.
Common Topics in GT Reading form the foundation of your real-world reading ability. Build familiarity with everyday subjects — employment, housing, education, health, and transport — to read confidently and efficiently in the test.
Next, you can explore IELTS Reading Skills & Exam Strategy for revision and further practice, or review the Academic Reading series to compare question types and strategies.
For official resources, visit the British Council IELTS Reading Practice Tests resource.
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