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Duolingo and IELTS are two popular language assessment methods used to evaluate a candidate's proficiency in a foreign language.
Both tests measure your English proficiency, but in different ways.
In this guide, we will provide an in-depth comparison of Duolingo vs IELTS.
Duolingo vs IELTS
Duolingo and IELTS are two popular language learning tools. Duolingo is an online language learning platform that offers a wide range of language courses, while IELTS is an international English language testing system.
While they both offer effective ways to learn English, they differ in a few key aspects.
Conducting body
Duolingo is developed and administered by Duolingo, Inc., a private language-learning company.
IELTS is developed, managed, and administered by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge English Language Assessment.
Purpose
Duolingo is an online language learning platform that provides users with a variety of language courses. The primary purpose of Duolingo is to help users learn a language. It offers a series of exercises, games, and tests to help language learners improve their language skills.
IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a language proficiency test used to assess the English language ability of non-native English speakers. The test is used to evaluate English language proficiency for academic, professional, and immigration purposes.
Format
Duolingo is a computer-based test that is taken online. It consists of a series of multiple-choice questions that test reading, listening, writing, and speaking skills. The test is adaptive, which means that it adjusts to the user's level of proficiency.
IELTS is an academic English proficiency test that is available in two formats: paper-based and computer-delivered. It is administered primarily in-person at an official test centre. It consists of four separate modules: Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking. The Listening, Reading, and Writing modules are completed in one sitting, while the speaking module is conducted separately.
Structure
The Duolingo test consist of two sections: Adaptive Section & Video Interview Section.
Adaptive Section: It consists of multiple-choice questions that adjust difficulty based on the user's ability level. The questions in this section cover topics such as grammar, vocabulary, and reading comprehension.
Video Interview Section: It requires candidates to record short video responses to prompt questions in the target language.
IELTS has two versions: Academic and General Training. The Academic version is intended for those who want to study at the tertiary level in an English-speaking country or for those seeking professional registration. The General Training version is for those who want to migrate to an English-speaking country, and it focuses on basic survival skills in broad social and workplace contexts.
There are four sections in each of the two versions of IELTS:
1. Listening:This section consists of 4 sections, each with 10 questions. The candidate will listen to 4 recordings and answer the corresponding questions.
2. Reading:This section consists of 3 sections, each with a variety of question types. The candidate will read 3 passages and answer the corresponding questions.
3. Writing:This section consists of 2 tasks. The candidate will be required to write a 150-word and 250-word essay.
4. Speaking:This section consists of a one-on-one interview with an examiner. The candidate will be asked questions about themselves and their opinions on a given topic.
Duration
The Duolingo test takes approximately 45 minutes and is usually taken online.
The IELTS test takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes and is usually taken in a test centre. The Academic version consists of 4 sections, while the General Training version consists of 3 sections.
Scoring
Duolingo does not assign a numerical score to its users but instead assigns a "skill level" based on the correct number of questions they answer. The skill level ranges from A1 (beginner) to C2 (advanced).
The IELTS test is scored on a scale from 0 to 9, with 9 being the highest. Each of the four parts is scored separately, and the overall score is an average of the four.
Fees
Duolingo is a relatively cheap test with a fee of around $49.
The IELTS exam comes with a fee. The exam costs vary depending on the country, ranging from $150 to $250.
Eligibility criteria
There are no eligibility criteria for Duolingo. Therefore, anybody interested in learning a language can sign up and start learning with Duolingo.
The IELTS is aimed at students, professionals and immigrants who need to prove their English language proficiency. To take the IELTS exam, the candidate must be at least 16 years of age, and have a valid passport or national ID card.
Validity period
Duolingo does not have a validity period and can be used for as long as the user wishes to
IELTS scores are valid for two years from the date of the exam.
Difficulty level
Duolingo is considered to be an easier test than IELTS. This is because it focuses on basic language skills such as grammar and vocabulary and does not require a deep understanding of the language.
IELTS is more difficult and requires a more in-depth understanding of the language. It assesses a candidate's ability to read, write, listen, and speak in English.
Result declaration
Duolingo results are available immediately after the test is completed. A score is provided, although it is not comparable to any other proficiency tests.
IELTS results are declared 13 days after the test and are available online. The scores are comparable to other language tests and provide a more accurate measure of language proficiency.
Conclusion
Duolingo and IELTS are both great options for those looking to improve their English language skills. While Duolingo is a great platform for those looking to learn the basics of English, IELTS is a more comprehensive option for those who want to take their English language skills to a more advanced level. Ultimately, the choice of which to use will depend on the individual's goals, available time, and determination.
Frequently asked questions
1. Who conducts the Duolingo and IELTS tests?
Duolingo is developed and administered by Duolingo, Inc., a private language-learning company. IELTS is developed, managed, and administered by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge English Language Assessment.
2. Which test is easier, the Duolingo or IELTS test?
Duolingo is considered to be an easier test than IELTS. It focuses on basic language skills such as grammar and vocabulary and does not require a deep understanding of the language. On the other hand, IELTS requires a more in-depth knowledge of the language.
3. What is the scoring pattern of the Duolingo and IELTS tests?
Duolingo does not assign a numerical score to its users but instead assigns a "skill level" based on the correct number of questions they answer. The skill level ranges from A1 (beginner) to C2 (advanced). The IELTS test is scored on a scale from 0 to 9, with 9 being the highest. Each of the four parts is scored separately, and the overall score is an average of the four.
4. What is the fee for the Duolingo and IELTS tests?
Duolingo is a relatively cheap test with a fee of around $49. The exam costs vary depending on the country, ranging from $150 to $250.
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