Why Vocabulary Matters in IELTS
Module 1-lesson 2
V. MODULES
Ahmed Abdirahman
9/20/20252 min read
Vocabulary plays a key role in both IELTS Speaking and Writing. Without the right words, it is difficult to express ideas clearly and accurately. This is why lexical resource accounts for 25% of the score in both tests (IDP IELTS, 2023). Students who use simple and repeated words usually receive lower bands, while those who show variety and accuracy can achieve Band 7 or above.
In Speaking, vocabulary shows how well students can communicate naturally. A weak answer might be: “My family is good. I like them.” This sentence does not give details and uses only simple words. A stronger answer could be: “I come from a close-knit family. We always support one another during challenges.” Here, the words close-knit and support make the response richer and more meaningful.
In Writing, vocabulary also makes a difference. For example, a weak sentence might be: “Somali food is nice.” A stronger version would be: “Traditional Somali food, such as canjeero and camel meat, is both nutritious and an important part of cultural identity.” This shows a wider range of words and connects vocabulary to cultural meaning.
One common mistake is using synonyms incorrectly. Students often replace words without checking the meaning. For example, saying “The education is delicious” is wrong because delicious only applies to food. This type of mistake reduces the score because it shows poor word accuracy (IELTSMaterial, n.d.).
Another important point is spelling. Even if students know the right word, a spelling mistake can lower the Writing score. Common errors include dropping letters (enviroment instead of environment) or confusing their and there. According to ThoughtCo (n.d.), learning simple rules such as doubling consonants (swim → swimming) or changing y to i (happy → happily) helps to avoid mistakes.
Students should learn vocabulary by topic. For example, Somali learners can practice sentences such as “Health services in Somalia are improving, but many rural areas still lack hospitals” or “Technology has transformed education through online learning.” These examples prepare students for real IELTS topics.
In summary, vocabulary matters because it gives clarity, precision, and strength to answers. To achieve Band 7 or higher, students must avoid repetition, use collocations, check spelling, and connect vocabulary to real contexts.