True/False/Not Given

Let’s talk about the keyword matching technique. This approach is all about identifying key words in the statement and quickly locating them (or their synonyms) in the passage.

It’s like playing a word-search game, but with a purpose!

So, how can you put this keyword matching technique into action? Here’s a simple approach that might just revolutionize your IELTS Reading strategy:

First, when you read the statement, try to identify 2-3 key words or phrases. These are usually nouns, verbs, or specific details that are crucial to the meaning of the statement.

Next, scan the relevant part of the passage for these keywords or their synonyms. Remember, IELTS often uses different words to express the same idea.

Finally, once you’ve found the matching keywords, read the surrounding context carefully to determine if the statement is True, False, or Not Given.

Examples

Let’s look at how this might work in practice with three different scenarios:

Science Article Scenario: Statement: “The greenhouse effect is solely caused by human activities.” Key words: greenhouse effect, solely, human activities

In the passage, you might find: “While human activities significantly contribute to the greenhouse effect, natural processes also play a role.”

Here, you’ve matched the keywords “greenhouse effect” and “human activities”. However, the word “solely” contradicts the passage, which mentions natural processes too. This makes the statement False.

Historical Text Scenario: Statement: “The printing press was invented in Germany in the 15th century.” Key words: printing press, invented, Germany, 15th century

The passage might say: “Johannes Gutenberg developed the movable-type printing press in Mainz, Germany around 1440.”

In this case, you’ve matched all the keywords (or their equivalents). Mainz is in Germany, and 1440 is in the 15th century. This statement is True.

Technology Article Scenario: Statement: “Artificial Intelligence will completely replace human workers by 2050.” Key words: Artificial Intelligence, completely replace, human workers, 2050

If the passage discusses AI and its impact on employment, but doesn’t mention anything about complete replacement or the year 2050, this would be a Not Given statement.

By using this keyword matching technique, you’re giving yourself a structured approach to these challenging questions. It’s like having a roadmap!

Remember, practice makes perfect with this strategy. You might find it helpful to highlight or underline key words in practice tests. The more you use this technique, the quicker and more natural it will become.

This keyword matching approach can be a game-changer for your IELTS Reading performance, especially in those tricky True/False/Not Given questions. It can help you navigate the passage more efficiently and make more confident decisions.

I’m really eager to hear about your experiences with IELTS Reading True/False/Not Given questions.