As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve witnessed countless students struggle with the IELTS Reading section, particularly the dreaded interview-based questions. Many feel overwhelmed, unsure of where to find the answers or how to phrase them effectively. But fear not! This article will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to confidently answer any interview question in the IELTS Reading test.

Understanding Interview Questions in IELTS Reading

Unlike traditional reading comprehension questions, interview questions in the IELTS Reading test require you to delve deeper into the text and extract specific information related to a hypothetical interview scenario. These questions assess your ability to:

• Identify key details: Locate specific information like names, dates, or facts directly stated in the passage.
• Infer information: Deduce meaning from the text, even if it’s not explicitly stated.
• Understand opinions and attitudes: Grasp the viewpoints and perspectives expressed by different speakers or the author.

Effective Strategies to Tackle Interview Questions

1. Analyze the Question and Keywords

Before diving into the passage, carefully examine the question itself. Identify keywords and phrases that indicate what information you need to find. Pay close attention to:

• Names: The question might mention a specific person’s name, signaling you to focus on their statements or experiences.
• Dates and Time periods: These provide crucial context and help narrow down your search within the passage.
• Specific Topics: Look for words or phrases that highlight the subject matter or theme being discussed.

2. Scan the Passage Strategically

Don’t waste time reading the entire passage word-for-word. Instead, use skimming and scanning techniques to quickly locate the relevant information.

• Skimming: Glance through the passage rapidly to grasp the overall theme and structure.
• Scanning: Once you’ve identified potential sections containing the answer, scan those parts more closely for specific keywords or phrases related to the question.

3. Read for Context and Detail

Once you’ve located the relevant section, carefully read the surrounding sentences to understand the context and accurately interpret the information. Pay attention to:

• Pronoun references: Ensure you understand who or what pronouns like “he,” “she,” “it,” or “they” refer to.
• Connecting words: Words like “however,” “although,” or “despite” signal a shift in opinion or contrasting viewpoints.
• Vocabulary in context: Don’t rely solely on the dictionary definition of a word. Consider its meaning within the specific context of the passage.

4. Paraphrase Your Answers

When formulating your answer, avoid simply copying phrases directly from the text. Instead, try to paraphrase the information using your own words while retaining the original meaning. This demonstrates your comprehension skills and ability to use English effectively.

Example from an IELTS Reading Passage

Passage excerpt:

“Dr. Sarah Jones, a renowned archaeologist, believes that the recent discovery of ancient pottery shards at the dig site could rewrite history. “These fragments are unlike anything we’ve ever encountered before,” she explained during a press conference. “Their unique design and composition suggest a previously unknown civilization might have inhabited this region centuries earlier than we initially thought.”

Question:

What is significant about the pottery shards discovered at the dig site, according to Dr. Jones?

Answer:

Dr. Jones believes the pottery shards are important because their unusual design and materials suggest a new civilization may have lived in the area much earlier than previously believed.

ancient pottery shards

Tips for Success

• Practice regularly: Familiarize yourself with different question types and practice answering them under timed conditions.
• Improve your vocabulary: A strong vocabulary is essential for understanding complex texts and paraphrasing effectively.
• Focus on comprehension: Remember, the goal is not just to find the answer but to demonstrate your ability to understand the passage as a whole.

By following these strategies and dedicating time to practice, you can approach the IELTS Reading interview questions with confidence and achieve your desired score. Remember, practice makes perfect!