Step Up to IELTS – Complete Review of the Student’s Book & Teacher’s Book
Step Up to IELTS, written by Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell, is a highly effective preparation course designed for learners aiming for an IELTS score between Band 5.0 and 7.0. Published by Cambridge University Press, this book series provides a structured, intensive program that helps students build the key language skills and exam strategies necessary for success in both the IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training exams.
The series includes two main books:
-
Step Up to IELTS – Student’s Book
-
Step Up to IELTS – Teacher’s Book
Together, they form a comprehensive course ideal for classroom use, tutoring, or guided self-study.
Book Information
-
Title: Step Up to IELTS
-
Authors: Vanessa Jakeman & Clare McDowell
-
Publisher: Cambridge University Press
-
Series: Cambridge Books for Cambridge Exams
-
Skill Focus: Listening, Reading, Writing, Speaking
-
Suitable for: IELTS Academic & General Training
-
Level: Upper Elementary → Intermediate (Band 5.0–7.0)
1. Overview of Step Up to IELTS
This course is designed for learners who want a shorter, more intensive preparation compared to full-length IELTS courses like Objective IELTS or Complete IELTS.
Step Up to IELTS focuses on:
-
Building essential English skills
-
Practicing with IELTS-style tasks
-
Developing exam-taking strategies
-
Improving accuracy and fluency
Its clear layout, practical activities, and progressive lessons make it ideal for students preparing for the exam within 4–10 weeks.
2. What’s Inside the Student’s Book?
The Student’s Book features:
✔ 12 Units Covering All IELTS Skills
Each unit includes:
-
Listening tasks
-
Reading passages
-
Speaking practice
-
Writing exercises
-
Vocabulary & grammar support
✔ Practice for Both Modules
Includes tasks for:
-
Academic IELTS
-
General Training IELTS
This makes the book flexible for all learners.
✔ Task-Based Learning Approach
Lessons focus on real exam situations:
-
Note completion
-
Matching and multiple choice
-
Diagram labeling
-
Essay writing
-
Cue-card speaking practice
✔ Exam Tips & Strategy Notes
Each unit provides strategies to help learners:
-
Manage time effectively
-
Avoid common errors
-
Understand exam formats
-
Improve accuracy under pressure
3. What’s Inside the Teacher’s Book?
The Teacher’s Book offers:
✔ Full Answer Keys
Clear answers for all activities and tasks.
✔ Teaching Notes and Classroom Strategies
Helps teachers plan lessons, guide practice, and support different learning styles.
✔ Additional Worksheets
Extra practice activities for:
-
Grammar
-
Vocabulary
-
Speaking drills
-
Writing improvement
✔ Photocopiable Materials
Perfect for classroom or tutoring use.
4. Who Should Use Step Up to IELTS?
This series is ideal for:
-
Learners aiming for Band 5.0–7.0
-
Students preparing within a short timeframe
-
Beginners transitioning toward intermediate IELTS level
-
Teachers needing a structured classroom course
-
Students who feel overwhelmed by advanced IELTS books
It offers the right balance between language development and exam practice.
5. Pros and Cons
✔ Advantages
-
Easy-to-follow structure
-
Good balance of skills and exam practice
-
Suitable for Academic & General Training
-
Excellent for short courses or quick preparation
-
High-quality Cambridge content
✘ Disadvantages
-
Not advanced enough for Band 7.5–8.5 learners
-
Limited full-length practice tests
-
Works best when combined with other practice books
6. Tips for Using Step Up to IELTS Effectively
-
Study 1 unit every 2–3 days
-
Combine with Cambridge IELTS test books for extra practice
-
Use the Teacher’s Book to strengthen weak skills
-
Practice Speaking with a partner or teacher
-
Rewrite writing tasks multiple times to improve structure
Consistency will produce the best results.
Conclusion
Step Up to IELTS is an excellent short-course preparation series for students aiming for Band 5.0–7.0. With its clear structure, well-designed activities, and practical exam tips, it helps learners quickly build the essential skills needed for IELTS success. Whether you’re studying independently or in a classroom, this book is a reliable and efficient resource for improving your IELTS performance.
📥DOWNLOAD HERE:
Step Up to IELTS Student’s book.pdf
