Academic Word List
570 word families: analyze, significant, contribute, demonstrate, approximately. These appear in virtually every IELTS Reading passage.
IELTS
IELTS Vocabulary – Build Academic Word Power Through Reading
IELTS 6.5+ demands 3000-4000 words including 500+ academic terms from the AWL. Readavo builds this vocabulary through reading academic-style articles with contextual translation and FSRS spaced repetition.
Collocations
Not just "impact" but "significant impact", "have an impact on", "positive/negative impact". IELTS scores depend on natural word combinations.
Linking Phrases
In addition, on the other hand, as a result, in spite of – essential connectors for Writing and Speaking coherence and cohesion scores.
Topic Vocabulary
Each IELTS topic (education, health, environment) has its core word cluster. Reading by topic is the fastest way to build thematic vocabulary.
Core IELTS Topics and Their Vocabulary
Education: curriculum, tuition, scholarship, enrollment, academic achievement. Topics: online vs traditional learning, role of universities, childhood education.
Health: obesity, malnutrition, mental health, prevention, sedentary lifestyle. Topics: nutrition, stress management, government's role in healthcare.
Technology: artificial intelligence, automation, digital literacy, cybersecurity. Topics: tech impact on employment, social media, privacy concerns.
Environment: sustainability, carbon emissions, deforestation, biodiversity, renewable energy. Topics: climate change, recycling, green energy transition.
How Readavo Helps With IELTS Vocabulary
Readavo selects articles on IELTS-relevant topics: from ecology to technology. You read texts similar to IELTS Reading passages and encounter academic vocabulary in real context. Every saved word enters the FSRS repetition system.
This is more effective than memorizing AWL lists because words are learned with collocations and context. On exam day, you don't just "recognize" a word – you know how it's used.
IELTS Scores and Vocabulary Size
- 5.0-5.5: 2000-2500 words. Basic vocabulary, frequent collocation errors
- 6.0-6.5: 3000-3500 words. Confident use of academic vocabulary
- 7.0-7.5: 4000+ words. Precise collocations, nuanced synonyms
- 8.0+: 5000+ words. Near-native academic proficiency
Vocabulary Powers All Four IELTS Sections
Reading without vocabulary = missed comprehension. Writing without vocabulary = repetition and low scores. Speaking without vocabulary = simple phrases instead of developed answers. Listening without vocabulary = missed keywords. A strong vocabulary lifts scores across every section.
FAQ
IELTS Vocabulary Questions
Strong vocabulary = higher scores across all sections.
3000-4000 words including 500+ AWL terms and correct collocations.
Through reading academic articles with context, not memorizing word lists.
Education, health, technology, environment, urbanization, globalization.
Readavo covers the vocabulary foundation. For complete prep, add Speaking, Writing feedback, and Listening drills.
Build Your IELTS Vocabulary
Academic articles + FSRS repetition = exam-ready vocabulary.