As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often get asked by both students and fellow teachers: “Should we teach idioms and slang in IELTS class?” It’s a valid question, especially considering the IELTS exam assesses your ability to communicate effectively in English. Let’s delve into this topic and explore the role of idioms and slang in your IELTS preparation.
Understanding the Role of Idioms and Slang in Language
Idioms and slang are integral parts of everyday language, adding color, nuance, and cultural context to communication.
- Idioms: These are phrases with a figurative meaning that differs from the literal meaning of the individual words. For example, “bite off more than you can chew” means to take on more than you can handle.
- Slang: These are informal words and phrases typically used in specific social groups or regions. Slang can change rapidly and might not be universally understood.
IELTS and the Use of Informal Language
The IELTS exam aims to assess your proficiency in academic and professional settings. While understanding idioms and slang can be beneficial for general fluency, using them excessively in the IELTS Speaking and Writing tests can be detrimental. Here’s why:
Formal Register: The IELTS exam requires you to demonstrate command of a formal register of English. Using slang or overly casual idioms can lower your score in Lexical Resource, as it suggests a limited vocabulary range.
Clarity and Precision: Academic and professional communication prioritizes clarity. Idioms can be confusing for non-native speakers, and using them might obscure your meaning.
Authenticity: The IELTS examiners are trained to assess your natural language abilities. Forcing idioms or slang into your responses can sound unnatural and negatively impact your Fluency and Coherence score.
When Idioms Can Be Appropriate
While it’s generally advisable to avoid slang altogether, there are limited instances where using an idiom might be suitable:
Common Idioms: Some idioms are so deeply ingrained in the English language that they are considered relatively formal. For example, “piece of cake” (meaning something easy) or “once in a blue moon” (meaning rarely) are generally acceptable.
Paraphrasing: If you’re struggling to explain a concept, a relevant and common idiom might help you convey your message more effectively. However, always ensure you can explain the idiom’s meaning in simpler terms if necessary.
Effective Strategies for IELTS Success
Instead of focusing on memorizing lists of idioms and slang, prioritize these strategies:
Expand Your Vocabulary: Focus on building a strong foundation of academic and formal vocabulary. This will serve you well across all sections of the IELTS exam.
Practice Natural Language: Engage in regular English conversations and practice expressing your thoughts and ideas in a clear and concise manner.
Familiarize Yourself with Common Idioms: While you shouldn’t actively use them in the exam, being familiar with common idioms can aid your listening and reading comprehension.
Conclusion
While idioms and slang have their place in everyday English, it’s crucial to approach their use in the IELTS exam with caution. Aim for clarity, formality, and natural language to demonstrate your true English proficiency. Remember, your goal is to communicate effectively, not to impress with obscure vocabulary.