Mastering IELTS Listening Part 2
Handling Monologues, Maps, and Multiple Choice
What is Listening Part 2?
IELTS Listening Part 2 features one person speaking (a monologue) on a non-academic, everyday topic. You will hear the recording only once and will have to answer 10 questions.
Common scenarios include a welcome talk for new students, a tour guide explaining a location, an announcement about an event, or someone giving information about a service. The key challenge is to follow the single speaker's train of thought and identify specific information, often related to places, choices, or details.
Common Question Types
Map / Plan / Diagram Labeling
You will see a visual and must label different areas based on the speaker's description. This tests your understanding of directions and spatial language.
Multiple Choice
You'll be asked a question and must choose the correct answer (A, B, or C). Be careful of "distractors"—options that are mentioned but are not the correct answer.
Matching
You'll be given a list of items (e.g., activities, people) and must match them to a list of options (e.g., locations, opinions).
Sentence Completion
You will need to fill in the gaps in a set of sentences using a specific number of words from the recording.
Top Strategies for Part 2
- Use the Prep Time Wisely: Before the audio starts, quickly read the questions. Underline keywords. For map questions, familiarize yourself with the layout and any existing labels. Try to predict the type of information you need to listen for.
- Listen for Signposting Language: Speakers use words and phrases to structure their talk. Listen for cues like "First...", "Next...", "Finally...", "On your left...", "Directly opposite...", or "Now, let's move on to...". These signal that a new piece of information is coming.
- Visualize the Scene: For maps and plans, create a mental picture. Imagine you are walking through the location as the speaker describes it. This makes it much easier to follow the directions.
- Be Aware of Distractors: In multiple-choice questions, the speaker might mention all three options. However, only one will be the correct answer. Listen for correcting language like "but," "however," or "although." For example, "We used to have the cafe here, but now it's located..."
- Answer As You Listen: Don't wait until the end. The questions are in the same order as the information in the recording. Answer each one as you hear the relevant information. If you miss one, move on so you don't miss the next.
Interactive Practice Quiz
Sample Audio Script: Community Centre Tour
"Good morning everyone, and welcome to the new Northwood Community Centre. My name is Sarah, and I'll be showing you around today. Before we begin, please take a look at the plan I've handed out.
As you can see, we are currently standing at the Entrance at the bottom of the plan. If you look directly ahead of you, you'll see the large, circular Main Hall, which is used for events and large gatherings. It's the real heart of the centre.
Now, if you look to the left of the Main Hall, there is a corridor. The first room on your left down that corridor is the Library. It’s a quiet space for reading and study. Opposite the Library, on the right side of the corridor, you'll find the Art Studio. We offer painting and pottery classes in there.
Let’s turn our attention to the area on the right of the Main Hall. Immediately to the right, there's a small, cozy room which serves as our Café. It’s a great place to relax with a coffee. The old café used to be where the library is now, but we think this new spot is much better.
And finally, for those of you looking to get active, our new, fully-equipped Gym is located at the very back of the building, directly behind the Main Hall. You can access it by walking straight through the hall.
Now, regarding opening hours..."
Questions 1-3: Label the Map
Choose the correct label for each location on the map below.