IELTS Reading Practice and Strategy Guide E-Book

Ranjot Singh Chahal

• Herausgeber: Rana Books UK
• Kategorie: Für Kinder und Jugendliche
• Sprache: Englisch

Seitenzahl: 179

Veröffentlichungsjahr: 2025

Beschreibung

IELTS Reading Practice and Strategy Guide is your ultimate companion to mastering the reading section of the IELTS exam. This comprehensive book offers 18 full-length practice tests carefully designed to cover a wide range of topics and question types, helping you build confidence and improve your reading skills. Whether you’re a beginner or aiming for a higher band score, this guide provides structured practice to sharpen your time management and test-taking strategies.

Each test simulates real IELTS reading conditions, enabling you to become familiar with the format and pacing required on exam day. The variety of passages includes academic, general interest, and contemporary themes, ensuring that you are prepared for any reading material the test may present. By working through these tests, you will develop the ability to quickly identify key information, understand the author’s intent, and tackle challenging vocabulary with ease.

Beyond practice tests, this guide also offers essential tips and strategies to help you approach different question types confidently. Learn how to avoid common pitfalls, improve your scanning and skimming skills, and manage your time efficiently. The included answer keys at the end of the book allow for thorough self-assessment, enabling you to track your progress and focus on areas needing improvement.

Whether preparing for the IELTS Academic or General Training module, this book is designed to empower you with the tools and knowledge necessary for success. With dedicated practice and strategic guidance, you can enhance your reading proficiency, increase your band score, and achieve your goals with confidence.

Leseprobe

Ranjot Singh Chahal

IELTS Reading Practice and Strategy Guide

18 Full Tests with Answer Keys and Essential Tips

First published by Rana Books UK 2025

Copyright © 2025 by Ranjot Singh Chahal

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, recording, scanning, or otherwise without written permission from the publisher. It is illegal to copy this book, post it to a website, or distribute it by any other means without permission.

Disclaimer

This book is intended solely for educational purposes to help learners prepare for the IELTS reading test. It is not affiliated with, endorsed by, or sponsored by the official IELTS test providers, including the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, or Cambridge English Language Assessment.

The term “IELTS” is a registered trademark of these organizations. Its use in this book is strictly for informational and educational purposes to describe the test format and content. All rights to the IELTS trademark belong to their respective owners.

First edition

Contents

Foreword

Basic Information

I. PART ONE

Reading Test 1

Reading Test 2

Reading Test 3

Reading Test 4

Reading Test 5

Reading Test 6

Reading Test 7

Reading Test 8

Reading Test 9

Reading Test 10

II. PART TWO

Reading Test 11

Reading Test 12

Reading Test 13

Reading Test 14

Reading Test 15

Reading Test 16

Reading Test 17

Reading Test 18

100 concise Tips

Test 11-17 Answer Key

We Value Your Feedback!

Foreword

It is my pleasure to introduce this comprehensive IELTS Reading Practice book, carefully designed to support learners on their journey to achieving success in the IELTS exam. As the founder of AMAN IELTS and an experienced IELTS trainer with a personal band score of 8.5, I understand the challenges students face in mastering the reading section.

This book offers a structured and practical approach to building essential skills such as comprehension, time management, and answering a variety of question types. Whether you are preparing for Academic or General Training, consistent practice with realistic tests is key to boosting your confidence and improving your band score.

I am confident that this book will be a valuable resource for all IELTS aspirants, helping them unlock their full potential and achieve their desired results. Wishing you the very best in your IELTS journey!

— Amanpreet Kaur

Founder, AMAN IELTS

IELTS Trainer | Band Score 8.5

Basic Information

The IELTS Reading Test is an important part of the IELTS exam, designed to evaluate your ability to understand and interpret a variety of written texts. Whether you are taking the Academic or General Training module, the reading section measures your skills in reading for gist, main ideas, details, logical argument, recognizing writers’ opinions, and understanding inferences.

Test Format:

The test lasts for 60 minutes.You will have to answer 40 questions.The test includes three reading passages with increasing difficulty.Passages are taken from books, newspapers, magazines, journals, and online sources, depending on the module.Question types include multiple choice, matching headings, identifying information (true/false/not given), sentence completion, summary completion, and diagram labeling.

Scoring:

Each correct answer carries one mark.Scores out of 40 are converted to the IELTS band scale from 0 to 9.Time management and accuracy are crucial for a good score.

Tips for Success:

Practice different question types to improve speed and accuracy.Skim the passages first to get a general idea before answering.Pay attention to keywords and synonyms in questions and passages.Avoid spending too much time on difficult questions; move on and return if time permits.

By consistently practicing with various reading passages, you will develop the skills needed to excel in the IELTS Reading Test and improve your overall English proficiency.

I

Part One

This contains 10 full IELTS reading practice tests designed to help you improve your skills and time management. Each test covers a variety of question types and topics. Answers are provided at the end of the section for self-assessment and review.

Reading Test 1

Passage 1: The Rise of Urban Farming

(A)

In recent decades, urban farming has emerged as a significant movement in cities worldwide, transforming vacant lots, rooftops, and even vertical spaces into productive agricultural hubs. This trend, driven by a combination of environmental, social, and economic factors, reflects a growing awareness of the need for sustainable food systems. Unlike traditional agriculture, which relies on vast rural landscapes, urban farming adapts to the constraints of city environments, utilizing innovative techniques to maximize limited space.

(B)

The origins of urban farming can be traced to community gardens in the 1970s, particularly in cities like New York and London, where residents sought to reclaim neglected spaces. These early initiatives were often grassroots efforts, motivated by a desire to foster community cohesion and address food insecurity in underserved areas. Over time, urban farming evolved beyond small-scale gardens to include sophisticated systems like hydroponics and aquaponics, which allow crops to be grown without soil or with integrated fish farming. These advancements have enabled urban farmers to produce high yields in compact areas, making fresh produce more accessible in densely populated regions.

(C)

One major driver of urban farming is the environmental benefit it offers. Cities account for a significant portion of global carbon emissions, and transporting food from rural farms to urban markets contributes to this footprint. By producing food locally, urban farms reduce the need for long-distance transportation, thereby lowering greenhouse gas emissions. Additionally, many urban farms employ sustainable practices, such as composting organic waste and using rainwater harvesting systems, further enhancing their eco-friendly credentials. Studies suggest that urban agriculture could reduce a city’s carbon footprint by up to 5% if implemented on a large scale.

(D)

Beyond environmental impacts, urban farming has profound social benefits. Community gardens and urban farms provide spaces for social interaction, fostering a sense of belonging among diverse groups. In cities like Detroit, where economic decline left many areas abandoned, urban farming initiatives have revitalized neighborhoods, offering both food and employment opportunities. Educational programs linked to urban farms also teach residents about nutrition and sustainable practices, empowering them to make healthier choices. For example, a 2020 study in Chicago found that participants in urban farming programs reported improved mental health and stronger community ties.

(E)

However, urban farming is not without challenges. Land availability is a significant hurdle, as cities prioritize commercial and residential development over agricultural use. High land prices and zoning regulations often restrict the expansion of urban farms. Additionally, soil contamination in urban areas poses health risks, requiring costly remediation efforts or alternative growing methods like raised beds or hydroponics. Access to funding also remains a barrier, particularly for small-scale farmers who lack the capital to invest in advanced technologies.

(F)

Despite these obstacles, technological innovations are helping urban farming thrive. Vertical farming, for instance, uses stacked layers to grow crops in controlled environments, optimizing space and resources. Companies in Singapore and Japan have pioneered vertical farms that use LED lighting and automated systems to produce leafy greens year-round. These high-tech solutions, while expensive, demonstrate the potential for urban agriculture to scale up and meet growing food demands. Meanwhile, low-tech solutions, such as rooftop gardens and container farming, remain accessible to smaller communities.

(G)

Urban farming also aligns with broader societal shifts toward sustainability and self-sufficiency. As climate change intensifies and global populations become increasingly urbanized, cities must find ways to feed their residents sustainably. Urban farming offers a partial solution, complementing traditional agriculture rather than replacing it. Experts predict that by 2050, urban agriculture could supply up to 20% of global food production, particularly for fresh produce like vegetables and herbs.

Questions 1–13

Matching Headings (Questions 1–5)

Choose the correct heading for each paragraph (A–G) from the list below. Write the correct number (i–viii) in boxes 1–5 on your answer sheet.

List of Headings

i. Technological advancements in urban agriculture

ii. The environmental advantages of urban farming

iii. Historical roots of urban farming

iv. Challenges facing urban agriculture

v. Social and community benefits of urban farming

vi. The role of urban farming in future food security

vii. Economic impacts of urban farming

viii. Policy support for urban agriculture

Paragraph AParagraph BParagraph CParagraph DParagraph E

True/False/Not Given (Questions 6–9)

Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage? Write:

TRUE if the statement agrees with the information

FALSE if the statement contradicts the information

NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

6. Urban farming began as a response to environmental concerns in the 1970s.

7. Hydroponics and aquaponics are commonly used in urban farming to save space.

8. Urban farming eliminates the need for traditional agriculture.

9. Vertical farming is an affordable option for most urban farmers.

Sentence Completion (Questions 10–13)

Complete the sentences below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

10. Urban farms help reduce ________ by producing food locally.

11. In Detroit, urban farming has contributed to ________ of neighborhoods.

12. Soil contamination in cities often requires ________ to ensure safe farming.

13. By 2050, urban agriculture could supply up to 20% of global ________.

Passage 2: The Evolution of Renewable Energy

(A)

The global shift toward renewable energy has redefined how societies power their economies, driven by the urgent need to combat climate change and reduce reliance on finite fossil fuels. Over the past few decades, renewable energy sources—such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal—have transitioned from niche technologies to mainstream solutions. This transformation reflects advancements in technology, supportive policies, and growing public awareness of environmental challenges.

(B)

The history of renewable energy dates back centuries, though its modern resurgence began in the late 20th century. Early windmills in Europe and waterwheels in ancient civilizations laid the groundwork for harnessing natural forces. However, it was the oil crises of the 1970s that spurred governments to invest in alternatives like solar panels and wind turbines. By the 1990s, technological improvements made these options more efficient and cost-competitive. For instance, the cost of solar photovoltaic panels has dropped by over 80% since 2000, making solar energy accessible to a wider range of countries and communities.

(C)

One of the most significant advantages of renewable energy is its minimal environmental impact compared to fossil fuels. Unlike coal or oil, renewable sources produce little to no greenhouse gas emissions during operation. Wind farms, for example, generate electricity without releasing carbon dioxide, while hydroelectric dams provide stable power with low emissions. However, the production and installation of renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar panels or wind turbines, can involve energy-intensive processes and materials like rare earth metals, which pose their own environmental challenges. A 2022 report estimated that lifecycle emissions from renewables are still 50–70% lower than those from fossil fuels.

(D)

Economic benefits also drive the adoption of renewables. The renewable energy sector has created millions of jobs worldwide, from manufacturing to installation and maintenance. In countries like Germany and Denmark, wind and solar industries employ thousands, boosting local economies. Additionally, renewables offer energy independence, reducing reliance on imported fuels. For small island nations, such as the Maldives, solar and wind projects have lowered energy costs and enhanced resilience against global fuel price fluctuations.

(E)

Despite these advantages, renewable energy faces significant hurdles. Intermittency—the fact that solar panels only generate power when the sun shines and wind turbines depend on wind speed—remains a challenge. Energy storage solutions, like advanced batteries, are improving but remain expensive. Grid infrastructure also requires upgrades to handle decentralized renewable sources. In developing nations, access to financing for renewable projects is often limited, slowing adoption. For instance, sub-Saharan Africa has vast solar potential but lacks the capital to scale up infrastructure.

(F)

Technological innovation is addressing many of these challenges. Offshore wind farms, which capture stronger and more consistent winds, are expanding in regions like the North Sea. Similarly, advancements in battery storage, such as lithium-ion and emerging solid-state technologies, are improving the reliability of renewables. In addition, smart grids—networks that use digital technology to optimize energy distribution—are helping integrate renewables into existing systems. A pilot project in Australia demonstrated that smart grids could reduce energy waste by up to 15%.

(G)

Public perception and policy play critical roles in the renewable energy transition. Government incentives, such as tax credits and subsidies, have accelerated adoption in countries like China, which leads the world in solar and wind capacity. However, public resistance to projects, such as wind farms disrupting scenic landscapes, can delay progress. Education campaigns and community involvement are essential to address these concerns and build support for renewable initiatives.

Looking ahead, renewable energy is poised to dominate global energy markets. The International Energy Agency predicts that by 2030, renewables will account for nearly 50% of global electricity production. Achieving this will require continued investment in technology, infrastructure, and international cooperation to ensure equitable access, particularly for developing nations. As the world grapples with climate change, the shift to renewables represents a critical step toward a sustainable future.

Questions 14–27

Multiple Choice (Questions 14–17)

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D. Write the correct letter in boxes 14–17 on your answer sheet.

14. What prompted the modern resurgence of renewable energy in the late 20th century?

A. Advances in battery technology

B. The oil crises of the 1970s

C. Public demand for cleaner energy

D. The invention of solar panels

15. According to the passage, what is a key environmental benefit of renewable energy?

A. It eliminates the need for energy storage.

B. It produces no emissions during production.

C. It has lower lifecycle emissions than fossil fuels.

D. It avoids the use of rare earth metals.

16. Which region is mentioned as a leader in offshore wind farm development?

A. Sub-Saharan Africa

B. The North Sea

C. The Maldives

D. Australia

17. What is a predicted outcome for renewable energy by 2030?

A. It will replace all fossil fuel energy.

B. It will account for nearly half of global electricity.

C. It will become cheaper than fossil fuels worldwide.

D. It will eliminate the need for energy storage.

Matching Information (Questions 18–22)

Which paragraph contains the following information? Write the correct letter (A–G) in boxes 18–22 on your answer sheet.

18. The historical use of windmills and waterwheels.

19. The role of government incentives in renewable energy adoption.

20. Challenges related to energy storage and grid infrastructure.

21. The economic benefits of renewable energy for small island nations.

22. The impact of smart grids on energy efficiency.

Summary Completion (Questions 23–27)

Complete the summary below. Choose NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from the passage for each answer.

Renewable energy has grown due to technological advancements and environmental needs. The cost of 23. ________ has decreased significantly since 2000, making it more accessible. Unlike fossil fuels, renewables produce 24. ________ emissions during operation. However, challenges like 25. ________ and limited financing in developing nations slow progress. Innovations such as 26. ________ and smart grids are improving reliability. By 2030, renewables are expected to account for nearly 50% of global 27. ________.

Passage 3: Cultural Preservation in a Globalized World

Globalization has connected the world in unprecedented ways, fostering economic growth and cultural exchange but also posing challenges to the preservation of cultural heritage. As societies become more interconnected, traditional practices, languages, and artifacts risk being overshadowed by dominant global cultures. Efforts to preserve cultural heritage have thus gained urgency, with communities, governments, and international organizations working to safeguard intangible and tangible heritage for future generations.

Cultural heritage encompasses both tangible elements, such as historic buildings and artifacts, and intangible ones, like oral traditions, music, and rituals. UNESCO, a leading authority on cultural preservation, estimates that half of the world’s 7,000 languages may disappear by 2100, taking with them centuries of knowledge and identity. Similarly, physical sites, from ancient temples to indigenous villages, face threats from urbanization, climate change, and tourism. For example, rising sea levels endanger coastal heritage sites in places like Venice and the Maldives.

Preservation efforts often begin at the community level. Indigenous groups, such as the Maori in New Zealand, have revitalized their language and traditions through education programs and cultural festivals. These initiatives not only preserve heritage but also strengthen community identity and pride. However, grassroots efforts alone are often insufficient, as they lack the resources to counter large-scale threats like urban development or natural disasters.

Governments play a crucial role in cultural preservation through legislation and funding. Many countries have established heritage protection laws, such as those safeguarding archaeological sites or restricting the export of cultural artifacts. In France, for instance, the government invests heavily in maintaining historic landmarks like the Louvre and Notre-Dame, which attract millions of tourists annually. However, critics argue that such efforts often prioritize economically valuable sites over less prominent ones, leaving rural or indigenous heritage vulnerable.

International organizations, like UNESCO, provide global frameworks for preservation. The UNESCO World Heritage List, which includes over 1,100 sites, encourages countries to protect significant cultural and natural landmarks. Designation as a World Heritage Site often brings funding and international attention, but it can also lead to overtourism, which damages fragile sites. The ancient city of Petra in Jordan, for example, has suffered from erosion due to heavy visitor traffic.

Technology is transforming cultural preservation. Digital archiving, such as 3D scanning of artifacts and virtual reality reconstructions of historic sites, allows heritage to be preserved and accessed globally. In Iraq, where conflict destroyed parts of ancient Palmyra, digital records have enabled partial reconstruction. Similarly, online platforms have made oral traditions and endangered languages accessible, helping communities preserve their heritage. However, technology cannot fully replace the experience of physical sites or living traditions, and access to advanced tools remains limited in many regions.

Economic pressures pose a significant challenge. Rapid urbanization often prioritizes development over preservation, leading to the destruction of historic sites. In China, for instance, entire historic neighborhoods have been demolished to make way for modern infrastructure. Tourism, while a source of revenue, can also harm heritage through overuse or commodification, where cultural practices are simplified for commercial appeal. Balancing economic growth with preservation requires careful planning and stakeholder collaboration.

Education is a vital tool for cultural preservation. By teaching younger generations about their heritage, communities ensure its survival. In Africa, storytelling traditions are being integrated into school curricula to preserve oral histories. Similarly, cultural exchange programs foster mutual respect and understanding, reducing the dominance of globalized culture. However, education systems in many countries prioritize modern skills over cultural knowledge, limiting the impact of these initiatives.

The future of cultural preservation depends on global cooperation and innovative solutions. Climate change, conflict, and globalization will continue to threaten heritage, but collaborative efforts—such as international funding for endangered sites or community-led preservation projects—offer hope. By valuing cultural diversity, societies can maintain their unique identities while embracing the benefits of a connected world.

Questions 28–40

True/False/Not Given (Questions 28–32)

Do the following statements agree with the information in the passage? Write:

TRUE if the statement agrees with the information

FALSE if the statement contradicts the information

NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this

28. UNESCO predicts that all indigenous languages will disappear by 2100.

29. Community-led efforts are often sufficient to protect cultural heritage from large-scale threats.

30. Technology allows for the preservation of both tangible and intangible heritage.

31. World Heritage Site designation always prevents damage from tourism.

32. Cultural exchange programs are mentioned as a way to preserve endangered languages.

Matching Features (Questions 33–36)

Match each example to the correct preservation challenge or solution. Write the correct letter (A–D) in boxes 33–36 on your answer sheet.

Examples

A. Digital archiving of artifacts

B. Demolition of historic neighborhoods

C. Rising sea levels

D. Heritage protection laws

Challenges/Solutions

33. A threat to coastal heritage sites

34. A government-led preservation effort

35. A technological solution for preservation

36. A consequence of urbanization

List Selection (Questions 37–40)

Choose the correct letter (A–D) for each question. Write the correct letter in boxes 37–40 on your answer sheet.

37. What is a key benefit of community-led preservation efforts?

A. They attract international funding.

B. They strengthen community identity.

C. They prevent urbanization.

D. They replace formal education.

38. What is a drawback of UNESCO’s World Heritage List?

A. It excludes intangible heritage.

B. It can lead to overtourism.

C. It only includes modern sites.

D. It lacks international support.

39. What challenge does tourism pose to cultural heritage?

A. It reduces community pride.

B. It limits access to technology.

C. It can lead to commodification.

D. It prevents global cooperation.

40. What is essential for the future of cultural preservation?

A. Limiting cultural exchange

B. Global cooperation

C. Reducing tourism revenue

D. Prioritizing modern skills

Answer Key for Test 1

Passage 1: The Rise of Urban Farming

Matching Headings (1–5)

vi (The role of urban farming in future food security)iii (Historical roots of urban farming)ii (The environmental advantages of urban farming)v (Social and community benefits of urban farming)iv (Challenges facing urban agriculture)

True/False/Not Given (6–9)

6. FALSE (Urban farming began as a community effort, not primarily for environmental concerns.)

7. TRUE (Hydroponics and aquaponics are mentioned as space-saving techniques.)

8. FALSE (Urban farming complements, not replaces, traditional agriculture.)

9. FALSE (Vertical farming is described as expensive.)

Sentence Completion (10–13)

10. greenhouse gas emissions

11. revitalization

12. costly remediation

13. food production

Passage 2: The Evolution of Renewable Energy

Multiple Choice (14–17)

14. B (The oil crises of the 1970s)