As an IELTS instructor with over two decades of experience, I often encounter students who feel intimidated by the diverse range of topics covered in the IELTS Reading test. One such area is the financial domain, particularly when the text discusses “shares.” This article will equip you with the knowledge and strategies to confidently tackle IELTS Reading passages related to shares.
What does “Shares” Mean in the Context of IELTS Reading?
In the realm of finance, “shares” represent units of ownership in a company. When you purchase shares, you become a shareholder, owning a fraction of that company. This concept is frequently explored in IELTS Reading passages, often within the context of business news, economic reports, or company profiles.
Decoding Share-related Language in IELTS Reading
To effectively comprehend passages about shares, it’s essential to familiarize yourself with the associated vocabulary. Here are some key terms you might come across:
- Stock Market/Stock Exchange: The marketplace where shares are bought and sold.
- Share Price/Stock Price: The current value of a single share.
- Dividend: A portion of a company’s profits distributed to shareholders.
- Market Capitalization: The total value of a company’s outstanding shares.
- Shareholder: An individual or entity that owns shares in a company.
- Trading: The act of buying and selling shares on the stock market.
- Volatility: The degree of fluctuation in a share’s price.
stock-market-chart|stock market chart|A line chart showing the fluctuation of stock prices over time, with green and red candlesticks representing price increases and decreases.
Example from IELTS Reading
Let’s analyze an excerpt from a potential IELTS Reading passage:
“The company’s shares surged by 15% after announcing a lucrative new partnership. This bullish trend is expected to continue, attracting more investors to buy shares.”
- Surged: Indicates a rapid increase in share price.
- Lucrative: Suggests a profitable partnership, positively impacting share value.
- Bullish: Refers to a positive market sentiment, anticipating price increases.
- Investors: Individuals or entities looking to purchase shares for potential profits.
Tips for Tackling Share-Related IELTS Reading Questions
- Build Vocabulary: Regularly review and practice using financial terms related to shares.
- Identify Key Information: Focus on understanding the overall trend of the share market and the factors influencing share prices.
- Skim for Specific Details: Use scanning techniques to locate answers to questions about specific companies, share prices, or market events.
- Pay Attention to Context: Interpret words and phrases related to shares based on the surrounding information in the passage.
Conclusion
Mastering the language and concepts related to “shares” is crucial for success in the IELTS Reading test. By developing your vocabulary, understanding key terms, and practicing your comprehension skills, you can confidently navigate even the most challenging financial texts. Remember, consistent effort and strategic preparation are your keys to achieving your desired IELTS score.
