As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often encounter students who wonder if they can use informal language, like “NG” (short for “no good” or “not grammatically correct”), in the IELTS Reading test. Let’s clarify this once and for all.
Understanding the Importance of Formal Language in IELTS Reading
The IELTS Reading test assesses your ability to comprehend academic texts. These texts adhere to formal English conventions, including grammar, vocabulary, and style. Using informal language like “NG,” slang, or shortened forms contradicts the principles of academic writing and can hinder your band score in several ways:
Impact on Comprehension
- Misinterpretation: Examiners expect you to demonstrate understanding of the provided text. Using “NG” might confuse them about whether you truly grasp the meaning or are simply substituting it for a lack of vocabulary.
- Reduced Clarity: Formal language ensures clarity and precision, crucial for accurately answering questions. “NG” is vague and doesn’t convey a specific grammatical error.
Impact on Score
- Lexical Resource: This aspect of your score evaluates your vocabulary range and accuracy. “NG” demonstrates limited vocabulary and an inability to articulate grammatical issues using appropriate terminology.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Using informal language can negatively impact the examiner’s perception of your grammatical accuracy.
Effective Strategies for IELTS Reading
Instead of relying on shortcuts like “NG,” focus on developing these essential skills:
- Vocabulary Building: Expand your academic vocabulary through consistent reading and vocabulary-building exercises.
- Grammar Practice: Solidify your understanding of English grammar rules. Identify your weaknesses and work on them.
- Active Reading: Pay close attention to sentence structure, word choice, and overall meaning while practicing IELTS Reading passages.
- Understanding Question Types: Familiarize yourself with different IELTS Reading question types to anticipate the information you need to extract from the text.
Example from IELTS Reading
Let’s say you encounter a sentence in the Reading passage: “The author’s assertion that… is unsubstantiated by the provided evidence.”
Instead of thinking “NG,” analyze the sentence:
- “Unsubstantiated” – This word signals a disagreement or lack of support.
- “Provided evidence” – This phrase tells you to look for evidence within the passage.
By understanding the vocabulary and structure, you can accurately answer questions related to the author’s claims and the supporting evidence.
Key Takeaways
Remember, the IELTS Reading test assesses your ability to understand and analyze formal written English. While “NG” might be acceptable in casual conversation, it has no place in the IELTS Reading test. Focus on honing your vocabulary, grammar, and analytical reading skills to achieve your desired band score.