IELTS test takers must have a command of English vocabulary that applies to many different situations and contexts. This book offers students extensive practice in vocabulary building and correct English usage, with emphasis on 600 English words that relate to specific categories that appear frequently on IELTS exams. These categories include nature and the environment, leisure activities and hobbies, the arts and culture, transportation, health, tourism, business, technology, social issues, and education. Author Lin Lougheed presents exercises that teach ESL students how to decipher the meanings of countless new words by reading or hearing them in relation to the context in which they are used. All activities are formatted like the actual questions on the IELTS exam and provide extra test practice. Dr. Lougheed suggests helpful strategies for learning and retaining word meanings. He also offers tips on analyzing unfamiliar compound words to determine their meanings and he includes vocabulary expanding exercises with answers in every chapter. Also included are recommendations for Web-based self-study activities. The enclosed MP3 CD presents exercises in listening comprehension.