IELTS Reading: Why Getting Band 7 Has Become Harder

For many IELTS test-takers, achieving a band 7 in the IELTS Reading section has become a common goal, whether for academic purposes, immigration, or professional advancement. However, over the years, students have noticed that reaching this score has become more challenging. In this blog, we’ll explore the reasons behind this trend and provide insights on how to improve your chances of hitting that elusive band 7.

Why is Band 7 Harder to Achieve Now?

1. Increase in Complexity and Vocabulary

The IELTS Reading passages have always been known for their complexity, but recent tests have seen a significant increase in the level of vocabulary and academic language. This trend reflects a greater emphasis on understanding sophisticated texts, idiomatic phrases, and technical terms. If you’re not accustomed to reading complex material, this can be a major obstacle.

Tip: Improve your vocabulary by reading a variety of texts, such as academic journals, magazines, and newspapers. Make it a habit to note down unfamiliar words and phrases, understand their meanings, and practice using them in sentences.

2. More Inference-Based Questions

Another reason why getting band 7 has become harder is the rise of inference-based questions. These questions require you to go beyond just locating information in the text; you need to understand the underlying meaning, connect ideas, and draw conclusions. This means that simply skimming the text might not be enough.

Tip: Practice identifying the main idea of each paragraph, and pay close attention to linking words (e.g., however, despite, therefore). These can help you understand how ideas are connected, which is essential for inference-based questions.

3. Tricky Question Types

The IELTS Reading section includes a range of question types, from True/False/Not Given to Matching Headings and Multiple Choice. In recent tests, these questions have become trickier, often containing distractors designed to confuse candidates. The test-makers seem to be focusing on subtle differences between correct and incorrect answers, making it crucial to understand the text in detail.

Tip: Familiarize yourself with each question type and practice them regularly. Learn strategies for answering tricky questions, such as eliminating obviously wrong answers and focusing on keywords.

4. Time Pressure

The IELTS Reading section requires you to answer 40 questions in just 60 minutes, and the passages are often dense and lengthy. Many candidates struggle to complete the test on time, and this pressure has only increased as the difficulty level of questions has risen.

Tip: Practice timed reading exercises to improve your speed. Focus on skimming and scanning techniques, which can help you locate information quickly. Also, make sure to practice reading a range of texts to get used to different writing styles.

How to Overcome the Challenges and Achieve Band 7

1. Develop a Reading Strategy

A solid reading strategy can make a big difference. Start by quickly skimming the passage to understand the overall theme. Then, read the questions and underline keywords. When you go back to the passage, you’ll know what to look for, saving you valuable time.

Tip: Practice this strategy on different reading materials, such as articles, essays, and reports. The more you practice, the easier it will become to identify key information quickly.

2. Focus on Improving Vocabulary

Vocabulary plays a huge role in your success in the IELTS Reading section. The better your vocabulary, the easier it will be to understand complex texts and answer questions accurately.

Tip: Create a vocabulary journal where you write down new words, their meanings, and example sentences. This will help reinforce your understanding and recall of new vocabulary during the test.

3. Take Practice Tests Regularly

Practice makes perfect, and this is especially true for IELTS Reading. Taking practice tests under exam conditions will help you get used to the pressure and timing. It will also help you identify your weaknesses, so you can focus on improving them.

Tip: Use resources like the Cambridge IELTS Practice Tests and online reading exercises. At Ross IELTS Academy, we offer tailored practice tests and feedback to help you improve your reading skills.

4. Learn to Manage Your Time Effectively

Time management is crucial in the IELTS Reading section. If you spend too long on one passage, you’ll end up rushing through the rest. Learn to prioritize easier questions and come back to the difficult ones if you have time left.

Tip: During practice sessions, set a timer for each passage. Aim to spend no more than 20 minutes per passage, including answering the questions. This will train you to pace yourself effectively during the real exam.

Conclusion

Achieving band 7 in the IELTS Reading section has become harder, but it’s not impossible. With the right strategies, regular practice, and a focus on building your vocabulary, you can overcome the challenges and reach your target score. At Ross IELTS Academy, we offer a range of resources and personalized feedback to help you succeed in your IELTS journey. Start preparing today, and you’ll be on your way to acing the reading section!

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