Jumat, 22 Februari 2013

Reading IELTS: Fabulous Actions in Matching Headings and Paragraphs

In this kind of question, test taker has to match five until seven paragraphs with the headings. The number of headings is always more than the paragraphs. In above picture for example, test taker is able to see that there are ten headings listed as the answers for five paragraphs written under it.


In order to answer this question, test taker has to use his or her skimming skill. Test taker is tested to be able to read the passage quickly then get the main meaning of every paragraph. That is why, it is suggested for test taker to ignore words that they do not understand. Test taker has to stay focus in looking for the meaning of every paragraph. He or she does not need to understand the detail.

Sometimes, there are some test takers who love matching some words they found in the paragraph with the heading. Test taker should be careful by taking this step since they might be trapped in choosing the wrong answer as it was predicted by test maker. It would be better if test taker simply read the paragraphs to analyze how it is being used. Another thing to do is giving more concentration on the opening and closing of paragraphs because usually most of the main points are located in this part.

Besides, there are some actions to be applied by test taker for getting more points from this kind of question. Initially, test taker should have a look at the heading. It should be remembered that he or she may not spend too much time because not all of the answers provided are correct. There are some distracters located to trap test taker.

Test taker should look at the first paragraph then look for the main points. Test taker could match it by trying all headings but many not force to answer at the same time. If test taker is still doubt, it is not suggested for him or her to keep answering. Just leave it first then go back later.

Then, test taker is recommended to underline the words in the passage that best matching the heading. Remember that test taker should look at the meaning of those words plus its context in the paragraph. By taking this strep, at least test taker could check his or answer easily.

Test taker should do rechecking. It is hard to get the correct answer just by reading the passage once. So, test taker needs to check his or her answer again. No need to be in a rush in rechecking.

Last, whenever test taker feels uncertain about his or her answer in choosing the same heading for two paragraphs, it is better for the test taker to keep the same answer for both numbers. If test taker does it, he or she will be able to get one correct answer. However, if test taker makes a wrong guessing, he or she will get no point.

Reference: http://www.dcielts.com/ielts-reading/paragraphs-headings-a-tutorial/