Vocabulary Building Masterclass
Systematic approaches to expanding academic vocabulary and using it naturally in IELTS tasks.
Overview
Rich vocabulary underpins high band scores in writing and speaking. Build depth (word families, collocations) and control (accurate usage) through deliberate practice.
Organise Vocabulary by Theme & Function
Group words into topic families and language functions to recycle them across tasks.
Environment & Sustainability
Words
Adjectives
Education & Learning
Words
Adjectives
Build Word Families & Collocations
For every new word, record its family and natural pairings.
Key tips
- Create vocabulary cards with noun, verb, adjective, adverb forms (analyse β analysis, analytical, analytically)
- Note common collocations (make an effort, heavy reliance, sharp increase, pose a threat)
- Write two model sentences per wordβone for Task 2, one for Speaking Part 3
Active Recycling Toolkit
Use spaced repetition and output-driven practice so vocabulary sticks.
Spaced Review
Action: Review new sets after 1, 3, and 7 days with quick recall tests
Output Challenges
Action: Write 150-word summaries or record 2-minute monologues using target vocabulary
Collocation Logs
Action: Collect collocations from model answers and authentic articles each week
Conclusion
Treat vocabulary like a living systemβcollect, organise, recycle, and measure usage weekly to see tangible gains.
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