As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve encountered countless students perplexed by the phrase “dinosaur answer” in the context of IELTS Reading. This seemingly odd term points to a common pitfall that can significantly impact your score. This article will delve into what a “dinosaur answer” is, how to identify it, and most importantly, how to avoid it to boost your IELTS Reading performance.
Understanding the “Dinosaur Answer”
In the realm of IELTS Reading, a “dinosaur answer” refers to information that might seem relevant at first glance but is outdated, irrelevant, or simply not supported by the passage. Just like a dinosaur in the modern world, this information is extinct within the context of the text.
These answers are often tempting because they contain keywords from the question or discuss a related concept. However, they fail to directly answer the question or are contradicted elsewhere in the passage.
Identifying the Traps
Here are some common characteristics of “dinosaur answers”:
- Out-of-Scope Information: These answers might discuss dinosaurs in general but fail to address the specific period, type, or characteristic mentioned in the question.
- Distorted Facts: The answer might present a fact about dinosaurs that is partially true but twists or misrepresents the information provided in the passage.
- Extinct Theories: The passage may mention an outdated theory about dinosaurs that has since been disproven. Choosing this answer demonstrates a lack of careful reading.
Avoiding the “Dinosaur Answer” Trap
Here’s how you can avoid falling prey to “dinosaur answers”:
- Read the Questions Carefully: Before you even glance at the passage, understand exactly what each question is asking. Pay attention to keywords, dates, and specific details.
- Scan for Keywords: Once you’ve understood the question, scan the passage for the keywords or synonyms of those keywords. This will lead you to the relevant section.
- Read the Surrounding Context: Never rely on a single sentence to determine your answer. Read the sentences before and after the potential answer to ensure it fits the overall context.
- Beware of Extreme Language: Answers containing words like “always,” “never,” “every,” or “none” are often incorrect, especially in scientific or historical texts.
Dinosaur Fossil Skeleton
Example from an IELTS Reading Passage
Passage excerpt: “While it was initially believed that dinosaurs were solely cold-blooded, recent discoveries suggest that some species, particularly the theropods, might have exhibited signs of warm-bloodedness.”
Question: What is the current scientific consensus on the dinosaurs’ metabolic rate?
A) All dinosaurs were cold-blooded. (Dinosaur Answer – outdated information)
B) All dinosaurs were warm-blooded. (Dinosaur Answer – contradicts the passage)
C) The metabolic rate of dinosaurs is still a subject of ongoing research. (Correct – reflects the passage’s information)
Mastering IELTS Reading: Beyond Dinosaurs
By understanding the concept of “dinosaur answers” and developing these critical reading strategies, you’ll be better equipped to navigate the complexities of the IELTS Reading section. Remember, meticulous reading, attention to detail, and the ability to differentiate between relevant and extinct information are your keys to achieving a high score. Good luck!
