As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I understand the importance of tackling complex reading passages effectively. One such topic that frequently appears in the IELTS Reading section is the formation of deserts. This article will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to confidently answer questions related to “how deserts are formed” in your IELTS Reading exam.
The Significance of “How Deserts Are Formed” in IELTS Reading
The IELTS Reading test assesses your ability to understand complex texts and extract relevant information. Passages about natural phenomena, such as desert formation, are common because they require you to:
- Comprehend scientific vocabulary: You’ll encounter terms like “rain shadow effect,” “evaporation,” and “climate change.”
- Identify cause and effect: Understanding the processes that lead to desert formation is crucial for answering many question types.
- Interpret data and diagrams: Passages on this topic may include graphs, maps, or illustrations that you need to analyze.
Mastering “How Deserts Are Formed” for IELTS
To excel in IELTS Reading passages about desert formation, focus on these key areas:
1. Key Vocabulary
Familiarize yourself with common terms related to deserts and climate:
- Arid: Extremely dry
- Precipitation: Rainfall, snow, or hail
- Evaporation: The process of water turning into vapor
- Latitude: Distance from the equator
- Wind patterns: The movement of air masses
- Deforestation: The clearing of forests
2. Understanding the Processes
Several factors contribute to desert formation:
- Rain Shadow Effect: When mountains block rain-bearing winds, one side receives abundant rainfall, while the other side becomes a dry “shadow” zone.
- High-Pressure Zones: Air descending at certain latitudes (around 30 degrees north and south) creates dry, high-pressure areas, leading to less rainfall.
- Cold Ocean Currents: Cold ocean currents flowing along coastlines cool the air, reducing its capacity to hold moisture and resulting in minimal rainfall.
- Human Activities: Deforestation and overgrazing can accelerate desertification by removing vegetation and disrupting the water cycle.
3. Analyzing IELTS Reading Examples
Let’s examine a sample IELTS Reading question:
Passage Excerpt: “The Atacama Desert in Chile is one of the driest places on Earth. This aridity is largely due to the rain shadow effect caused by the Andes Mountains, which block moist air from the east.”
Question: What is the primary reason for the Atacama Desert’s extreme dryness?
Answer: The rain shadow effect of the Andes Mountains
4. Tips for Success
- Practice Skimming and Scanning: Quickly identify key information within the passage.
- Pay Attention to Visuals: Use maps, diagrams, and graphs to enhance your understanding.
- Focus on Cause and Effect: Identify the factors that lead to desert formation and their consequences.
- Expand Your Vocabulary: Regularly learn new words related to climate and geography.
Conclusion
By mastering the key vocabulary, understanding the processes involved, and practicing with IELTS Reading examples, you can confidently approach passages about “how deserts are formed.” Remember to employ effective reading strategies and continue building your vocabulary to achieve your desired IELTS score.