Module 6: Sentence Completion

Sentence Completion questions are a common feature of the IELTS Reading Academic test. In this question type, you are required to complete sentences using words from the passage. These questions assess your ability to locate specific details and understand key information in the text. This module will guide you through the techniques and strategies necessary to answer Sentence Completion questions accurately and confidently, particularly in Passage 1, where texts are relatively simpler.

Learning Objectives

By the end of this module, students will:

1. Understand the structure and purpose of Sentence Completion questions.
2. Develop strategies to locate and extract relevant information.
3. Practice completing sentences accurately within word limits.

Key Features of Sentence Completion Questions

What You Need to Do

• Fill in the blanks to complete the sentences using words from the passage.
• Follow the specified word limit, typically NO MORE THAN ONE/TWO/THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER.

Common Challenges

1. Identifying exact words from the text that fit grammatically and contextually.
2. Managing time effectively while scanning for answers.
3. Misinterpreting the word limit or ignoring instructions.

Step-by-Step Strategy for Sentence Completion

Step 1: Read the Instructions Carefully

• Check the word limit (e.g., “NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS”).
• Ensure you understand the task fully before attempting to answer.

Step 2: Analyze the Sentence Stem

• Read the incomplete sentence and underline keywords.
• Think about the grammatical structure and type of information missing (e.g., a noun, number, or verb).

Step 3: Skim and Scan the Passage

• Skim to locate the relevant section of the text using keywords.
• Scan that section for specific phrases or information that matches the sentence.

Step 4: Select the Exact Words

• Use words directly from the passage, ensuring they fit grammatically and adhere to the word limit.
• Avoid paraphrasing; the test requires exact matches.

Step 5: Check Your Answer

• Read the complete sentence with your answer inserted to ensure it makes sense.

Common Traps to Avoid

1. Exceeding the Word Limit

1. • Even one extra word can result in a wrong answer. Double-check the instructions.

2. Choosing Irrelevant Information

1. • Verify that your selected words are directly related to the sentence stem.

3. Ignoring Grammar

1. • The completed sentence must be grammatically correct.

Activities and Practice

Activity 1: Identifying Keywords

• Task: Underline keywords in sample Sentence Completion questions and locate them in the text.
• Objective: Build speed and accuracy in finding relevant sections.

Activity 2: Word Limit Practice

• Task: Complete sentences with NO MORE THAN TWO WORDS from a short passage.
• Objective: Adhere to word limits while ensuring grammatical accuracy.

Activity 3: Full-Length Practice

• Task: Answer 10 Sentence Completion questions from a sample IELTS Passage 1.
• Objective: Apply strategies in a simulated test environment.
• Assessment: Review correct answers with explanations to understand errors.

Sample Passage and Questions

Sample Passage Excerpt:

The Amazon rainforest is home to thousands of species of plants and animals. It plays a critical role in regulating the Earth’s climate by absorbing large amounts of carbon dioxide. However, deforestation has become a major issue, leading to the loss of biodiversity and an increase in greenhouse gas emissions.

Sentence Completion Questions:

1. The Amazon rainforest contains a variety of _________.
2. It helps in controlling the Earth’s _________.
3. Deforestation causes the emission of _________.

Model Answers:

1. species of plants and animals
2. climate
3. greenhouse gases

Tips for Success

1. Stay Within the Passage: The answers are always found in the text, often using the same wording.
2. Watch for Synonyms: Keywords in the question may be paraphrased in the passage.
3. Practice Timing: Sentence Completion questions can be time-consuming if not approached systematically.

Summary

Sentence Completion questions require precision and attention to detail. By following the strategies outlined in this module, you can efficiently locate and extract relevant information to complete sentences accurately. Consistent practice will enhance your confidence and improve your performance in these questions.

Homework

• Complete 15 Sentence Completion questions from past IELTS exams.
• Identify the keywords you used and reflect on your approach for each answer.

Resources

• Practice tests from IELTS official materials.
• Keyword identification exercises.
• Annotated examples of correct and incorrect answers for Sentence Completion.