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IELTS Reading modules often challenge test-takers with their tight time constraints. Within just 60 minutes, you’re expected to navigate multiple passages and accurately answer 40 questions. The complexity of these tasks often lies in understanding the questions, identifying keywords, and managing time effectively.
In this blog, we’ll uncover the secrets of mastering IELTS Reading with a focus on keywords, their synonyms, and the right strategies to approach these challenging questions. Plus, we’ll provide engaging examples and actionable tips to boost your score!
What Are Keywords?
Keywords are specific words or phrases in a question or passage that hold critical information. They can be nouns, verbs, dates, names of people or places, or even italicized or capitalized terms. These words act as anchors, helping you locate relevant parts of the text.
What are Keyword Synonyms?
The words with the same or nearly similar meanings as a word are known as synonyms. They are also referred to as parallel expressions. These keyword synonyms are used to test whether aspirants genuinely understand the text rather than merely identifying specific words. Below is a list of words that, while not exactly identical in meaning, have very similar interpretations.
| Words | Close Meanings |
|---|---|
| Students | Learners |
| Rise | Growth |
| Job | Occupation |
| House | Home, residence |
| Happiness | Joy, satisfaction |
IELTS Reading: How to Find the Right Keywords?
IELTS Reading tests are often perceived as challenging. However, aspirants can overcome this challenge by adopting effective strategies such as skimming and scanning. A crucial aspect of skimming is identifying keywords in the passage and underlining them. This strategy aids in better comprehension of the passage and helps maintain focus.
Keyword Table: IELTS Reading
| Keywords in Question | Similar Keywords in the Passage |
|---|---|
| Suggestions | Proposals |
| Discusses | Covers |
| Goal | Purpose |
| Creative skills | Innovative thinking |
| Browsing | Surfing online |
What is a Keyword Technique?
The keyword technique involves identifying words in a passage that have a similar or close meaning to the words in the questions. These keywords play a pivotal role in locating answers within the passage. Mastering the ‘Keyword Technique’ is essential for aspirants aiming to achieve a high band score in the IELTS Reading module. Consistent practice is key to developing this skill.
- Read the question carefully.
- Make a mental note of keyword synonyms from the question.
- Skim and scan the passage provided.
- Underline keywords such as nouns, verbs, and adjectives.
- Locate the keywords or their synonyms in the passage (pay attention to paraphrased words).
- Carefully read the sentences surrounding the keywords multiple times.
- Refer back to the question and compare it with the relevant part of the passage.
- Avoid wasting time searching for identical words; instead, focus on synonyms.
- Determine the correct answer and write it on the answer sheet.
Keywords are crucial for finding answers, but it is important to note that some keywords may be paraphrased. Always remember that while matching keywords can help locate the answers, understanding the content is the most critical factor. Without comprehension, errors are likely. Developing a strong vocabulary will significantly enhance your IELTS Reading performance and overall score.
For Example
Let’s explore an example to understand the use of keywords in locating answers within a passage.
Reading Passage
A. The concept of renewable energy has gained significant importance in recent years due to the adverse effects of traditional energy sources on the environment. Renewable energy sources, such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, provide sustainable alternatives to fossil fuels. These energy sources are not only environmentally friendly but also help in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and combating climate change.
B. Solar energy is one of the most promising renewable energy sources. Solar panels capture sunlight and convert it into electricity, making it a clean and abundant energy source. However, the efficiency of solar panels depends on various factors, such as weather conditions, geographical location, and the quality of the panels. Despite these challenges, advancements in solar technology have made it increasingly accessible and affordable.
C. Wind energy is another reliable renewable energy source. Wind turbines harness the power of the wind to generate electricity. They are typically installed in areas with consistent wind patterns, such as coastal regions and open plains. While wind energy is highly efficient, concerns about noise pollution and the impact on wildlife, particularly birds, have been raised.
D. Hydroelectric power, generated by the movement of water, is one of the oldest forms of renewable energy. Large dams and reservoirs are used to control the flow of water, which drives turbines to produce electricity. Although hydroelectric power is highly efficient and reliable, the construction of dams can have significant environmental and social impacts, including the displacement of local communities and disruption of aquatic ecosystems.
Questions 14–16
Reading Passage has four paragraphs, A–D. Choose the correct heading for paragraphs B–D from the headings below.
Write the correct number (i–vii) in boxes 14–16 on your answer sheet.
List of Headings
- Impact of wind energy on the environment
- Advantages and challenges of solar power
- Development of renewable energy technology
- Environmental effects of hydroelectric power
- Global adoption of renewable energy
- Characteristics of wind energy
- Benefits of renewable energy sources
Example: Paragraph A — Answer: vii
Answers
| Question Number | Answer | Keywords | Keyword Location |
|---|---|---|---|
| 14 | ii | Solar energy, efficiency, challenges | Paragraph B |
| 15 | vi | Wind energy, consistent wind patterns | Paragraph C |
| 16 | iv | Hydroelectric power, environmental impacts | Paragraph D |
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