8
Dec
2009
IELTS Exam Preparation
The IELTS
IELTS stands for the International English Language Testing System. It is a globally recognised English exam that tests a candidate’s ability to communicate and understand across all four language skills: reading, writing, speaking and listening. It is managed by the British Council, IDP:IELTS Australia and the University of Cambridge ESOL Examinations, and administered in over 120 countries. IELTS scores are used as an indicator of English skills by universities, colleges, businesses and government departments.
There are two versions of the test- the Academic test and General Training test. The Academic test is for those wanting to study at an English-speaking tertiary level institution, such as a college or university. The General Training test is more suitable for those who want to do work experience or a training program (such as an apprenticeship) in English, attend a secondary school or gain Permanent Residency in an English-speaking country. It’s best to contact the organisation or institution that you wish to attend when deciding which test you should take.
Exam Preparation
An IELTS exam preparation course, such as offered by GEOS English language courses, will help students prepare for all parts of the exam, both the Academic version and the General Training version. The IELTS has four parts:
- Listening (30 minutes)
- Reading (60 minutes)
- Writing (60 minutes)
- Speaking (11-14 minutes)
The test goes for a total of 2 hours and 45 minutes, with the first three sections taken in one sitting. The speaking test may be on the same day, or up to 7 days before or after the other tests. The test is a conversation with a certified IELTS examiner.
If considering to undertake an exam preparation course with an English college, a typical program will probably run for 10 weeks and focuses specifically on the IELTS exam. To benefit from such a course though, students will need a minimum of intermediate level English. GEOS English colleges also offer a range of other services and courses, from conversation groups to social activities.
4
Dec
2009
TOEFL Exam Preparation
What is TOEFL?
TOEFL stands for Test of English as a Foreign Language, and is used to demonstrate English language proficiency if you are a non-native speaker. TOEFL tests English skills in reading, listening, speaking and writing at a level suitable for entry into English colleges and universities. It is the most widely accepted English language test in the world, accepted by over six thousand institutions in more than 130 countries. This give students more choice when choosing where to study, as well as great flexibility and convenience. It was first administered in 1964 and has been taken by more than 23 million students.
The entire test is taken in one day, and candidates can retake the test after a week if they wish to improve their scores. The test is fair and accurate as it is administered consistently, with ETS-certified experts grading the tests (which are anonymous). TOEFL results are valid for two years because after such a period of time a candidate’s language proficiency could have changed significantly. Educational institutions usually only consider a candidate’s most recent score.
TOEFL is offered in two formats: the Internet-based Test (IBT) and the Paper-based Test (PBT). Which format is taken depends on which is offered at the test centre attended. Since the IBT’s introduction it has progressively been replacing the computer-based test and the PBT (although these are still used in select areas).
Exam Preparation
TOEFL exam preparation courses are designed to help students communicate in real-life academic situations. It is not enough to know simply the basic of English to succeed at an English college or university. Students need to be able to communicate their ideas effectively both orally and in written form in the classroom and on campus.
A TOEFL exam preparation course will prepare students to be able to understand lectures, read academic textbooks, conduct research online and in the library, write academic papers, and speak with lecturers and other students. By taking a course at an English college, students should be able to take the test with confidence.
26
Oct
2009
Singapore English colleges
Things to do in Singapore
Singapore is both an island and a city-state, located at the southern tip of the Malay Peninsula in South East Asia. With a varied heritage, as can be deduced from the 4 official languages- English, Malay, Chinese and Tamil- there is lots to see and do. Although Singapore is well known for its shopping and dining, there is much more to Singapore, such as the Botanic Gardens, with a boardwalk through the rainforest or its collection of orchid species.
Then there is the Ritz-Carlton Singapore, a hotel that features one of Southeast Asia’s finest collections of contemporary artworks. Many commissioned for public spaces, these include artists such as Andy Warhol and David Hockney. It is free to enter and there is an i-Pod guided tour.
Another must see is the Chinatown Heritage Centre, an authentic vision of Singapore’s history with fully recreated scenes from the late 19th and early 20th centuries. From entire bedroom and kitchen sets, to street scenes. The Asian Civilisations Museum is another place to experience Singaporean culture, as it attempts to give an appreciation of Singapore’s multi-ethnic society.
For a bird’s eye view of Singapore you can visit the 165m high Flyer. One of the world’s largest ferris wheels, it will give you a 30 minute ride for a fee.
GEOS Singapore
The GEOS Corporation was founded in 1973 with the aim of contributing to international communication through teaching English. GEOS actually stands for Global Education Opportunities and Services, and spans across approximately 15 countries.
GEOS Singapore is a government approved college offering English language courses, taught by experienced and highly qualified native teachers. It is conveniently located on the Singapore Shopping Belt along Orcahrd Road, offering plenty of opportunity to experience the city and interact with the people. Courses offered include Seasonal Tour packages, Regular Intensive English, Accelerated English, Active English and more.