British vs American English for IELTS: Which is better?

 

Preparing for the IELTS exam often brings up the common question of which is better, British or American English? This is a valid concern, especially considering the pronunciation accents, vocabulary, and even some grammatical differences between the two. Many test takers worry about making the “wrong” choice and affecting their score.

As is known, IELTS (International English Language Testing System) provides a comprehensive assessment of non-native speakers' English language skills through four key skills: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The scores given range from 0 to 9, reflecting your level of English proficiency.

IELTS is widely used by educational institutions, companies, and immigration authorities in English-speaking countries. More than 12,500 global organizations trust IELTS including universities and international companies [1].

What is the Difference between British and American English?

British and American English do share many similarities, but it’s important to understand the key differences in vocabulary, pronunciation, spelling, and grammar. These differences can affect how your message is received and understood, especially in formal contexts like the IELTS test.

1. Difference in Vocabulary

British and American English vocabulary contains some interesting differences. Some terms have different equivalents in the two variants. For example, the apartment we know in American English is called flat in British English.

Holiday in British English is called vacation in American English, while film is called movie. Interestingly, both British and American English use advice as a noun and advise as a verb. However, British English distinguishes between practice (noun) and practice (verb), while American English uses practice for both.

2. Grammar Difference

In addition to differences in vocabulary and spelling, there are also grammatical differences between British and American English. British English uses the present perfect for past actions that have an impact on the present and in sentences with already, yet, or recently, while American English generally uses the present simple.

Some regular verbs in American English are considered irregular in British English. Collective nouns such as staff, government, and team can be singular or plural in British English, but singular in American English. There is less difference in the use of prepositions.

3. Difference in Pronunciation

There are concrete differences in British and American English pronunciation. For example, the /r/ sound is more pronounced in American English (e.g., car, shark), while in British English it is often not heard unless followed by a vowel. The /t/ sound in often, water, and got it is pronounced clearly by British speakers, while American speakers may drop it or change it to /d/. There are also differences in vowels, as in can't (/kant/ vs. /kænt/).

Which accent is recommended for the IELTS examination?                                               

There is actually no specific accent preference in IELTS. Using British or American English will not affect your score. However, while you don’t need to be 100% consistent when writing, it’s a good idea to try and be as consistent as possible in using British or American English spelling.

Prepare Yourself to Achieve Your Dream IELTS Score 

Success in the IELTS test does not only depend on the accent you use. Thorough and structured preparation is crucial, starting from understanding the test format, mastering strategies for answering questions, to practicing your English skills consistently.

Regular and focused practice will build your confidence and improve your ability to face each part of the test. Ready to achieve your dream IELTS score? Check out the following surefire tips to maximise your preparation.

1.      Utilise Various Preparation Resources

Explore various learning resources, from online practice tests and IELTS preparation courses (both online and offline) to guidebooks and English learning apps. Familiarizing yourself with the test format and question types will improve your performance on the day of the test.

 2.      Targeted and Focussed Practice

Identify your strengths and weaknesses in each language skill, whether listening, reading, writing, or speaking. Focus on improving areas where you are still weak with regular practice using authentic materials, such as articles, news, and conversation recordings.

 3.    Timed Practice Tests

Practicing questions alone is not enough. Test your abilities by taking full practice tests under conditions that resemble the actual test, including time limits. This will help you manage your time effectively and reduce anxiety when facing the real test.

4.    Practice with an Experienced Tutor

Practicing speaking and writing with an English teacher, friend, or language partner is very important. Ask for constructive feedback to identify mistakes and areas for improvement. Feedback from others can provide a new perspective and help you refine your language skills.

5.    Consistency and Discipline

The key to success in IELTS preparation is consistency and discipline. Create a realistic study schedule and stick to it. Don't forget to take breaks and maintain your health to stay focused and motivated throughout the preparation process.

British Council, the Right Partner to Improve Your IELTS Score!                    

British Council Indonesia Foundation, a foundation focussed on English language, strongly supports people, especially the Indonesian community, in gaining proper access to English education.

Kania Hairani, one of the test participants from the British Council, shared her positive experience with British Council IELTS.

“IELTS plays a vital role in the English language. For me, IELTS is like ammunition that drives me to reach my dream campus, opening access to adapt to various languages. In addition, IELTS has opened the door to opportunities for scholarships and accelerated learning in an international environment,” said Kania.

The importance of IELTS is increasingly evident considering the tight competition to get a place in top universities and international job opportunities. Therefore, achieving a high score is the main target for many prospective test takers, who are willing to struggle hard to realize their dreams. So prospective participants try to give the best results in realizing the IELTS test.

“Not only that it is recognized in more countries and educational institutions, the British Council IELTS offers comprehensive training materials that allow me to have a gist of how the actual test would look like. These materials play a fundamental role in my preparation and support me in reaching my dream result. Furthermore, IELTS has opened doors of opportunities for scholarships and catalysed learning in an international setting.” added Kania.

Special Offer from British Council for Study Abroad Aspirants

British Council IELTS is offering a special discount of up to Rp300,000 on weekdays and Rp100,000 on weekends on the IELTS test for scholarship hunters during November-December 2024.

This offer is valid at several IELTS test locations, including Office 8 Jakarta, University Access Centre West Jakarta, London School of Accountancy and Finance North Jakarta, Multimedia Nusantara University Tangerang, Golden Gate Education Bali, SYNERGI International Academy Medan, UPT Bahasa Unimed Surabaya, CILACS Universitas Islam Indonesia Yogyakarta, BETA Bridging Borders Bandung, and Service English Unit Diponegoro University Semarang.

There is also a special benefit available in the form of free official test preparation materials, IELTS Ready Premium, for scholarship candidates. Various benefits are offered through IELTS Ready Premium, including 40 practice tests for each section (Speaking, Writing, Reading, and Listening), writing practice with sample answers demonstrating assessment criteria, feedback for each Reading and Listening question, masterclasses to hone test-taking skills, and exercises specifically designed to improve Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking skills. This program is available free of charge exclusively for British Council IELTS test takers and can be accessed up to seven days after the test date.

There's also the IELTS One Skill Retake, offering flexibility for test takers to retake a single skill to achieve their desired score without having to repeat the entire test. Another benefit is faster results for IELTS on Computer, with results typically available within 1-5 days.

By understanding the importance of IELTS and applying the tips above, you will not only be ready to face the test but also more confident in preparing for your studies abroad. Remember, proper preparation and strategy are the keys to achieving your dreams.