As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students who struggle with a seemingly simple task: listening for numbers. This might seem straightforward, but in the pressure of the IELTS listening test, even the most basic information can become elusive.
One common question I receive is, “What about questions like ‘What is Thomas’s new home phone number?’ How do I ensure I catch that crucial information?” This article will delve into effective strategies to confidently tackle number-related questions in your IELTS listening exam, using the example of finding “Thomas’s new home phone number”.
The Significance of Numbers in IELTS Listening
Numbers are frequently used in IELTS listening passages, often appearing in contexts such as:
- Personal Information: Phone numbers, addresses, birthdates, credit card details
- Travel Arrangements: Flight numbers, departure times, hotel room numbers
- Academic Information: Dates, statistics, percentages
Therefore, understanding how to effectively listen for and record numbers is crucial for achieving a good score.
Strategies for Conquering Number-Based Questions
Let’s explore some proven techniques to accurately note down numbers, specifically focusing on a scenario involving “Thomas’s new home phone number”:
1. Anticipate and Predict
Before the listening section begins, carefully read the questions. If you encounter “What is Thomas’s new home phone number?”, anticipate that you’ll be listening for a series of digits. This mental preparation keeps you alert.
2. Focus on Keywords
Identify keywords in the question that will guide your listening. In our example, the keywords are “Thomas”, “new”, “home phone number”. These words signal when the relevant information is about to be presented.
3. Familiarize Yourself with Number Variations
English speakers use various terms for numbers. Be prepared to hear:
- Standard Numbers: Zero, one, two, three…
- Ordinal Numbers: First, second, third…
- Informal Expressions: Double (for two), a couple (for two), a dozen (for twelve)
4. Pay Attention to Chunking
Phone numbers are often chunked together. Be ready to note down numbers in groups, for example: 020 7899 1234.
5. Practice Active Listening
Active listening is crucial. Don’t just passively hear the words; actively process them. As you listen for “Thomas’s new home phone number”, mentally repeat the digits to ensure you retain them.
Example from an IELTS Listening Test
Imagine the following excerpt from an IELTS listening passage:
Speaker 1: “So, Thomas has moved to a new flat. Have you got his new details?”
Speaker 2: “Yes, I do. His new mobile is the same, but his home phone number has changed. It’s now 020 8765 4321.”
Notice how the keywords “Thomas”, “new”, and “home phone number” clearly signal the answer.
IELTS Listening Test Example
Tips for Success
- Develop shorthand: Create your own abbreviations for common words like “double” or “triple” to save time.
- Stay calm: If you miss a digit, don’t panic. Continue listening, and you might catch it later or be able to make a logical guess.
- Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with different accents and speeds of speech by listening to English podcasts, news, or TV shows.
By following these strategies and practicing consistently, you’ll be well-equipped to confidently handle any number-related question on the IELTS listening test, including finding “Thomas’s new home phone number”.
