IELTS Reading Question Type
Matching Names
Information
Matching names is quite a common task and it requires you to match names (individuals, nationalities) to statements according to the information in the text.
Example:
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The statements and the names will not be in the same order as the information in the text.
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In some tasks there will be more names, in the list, than statements. See example above.
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In some tasks there will be more statements than names in the list. When this happens, the instructions will say..
NB. You may use any letter more than once
Strategies & Tips
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Start by speed reading or skimming the text first. This will give you a good idea about what information is contained in each section or paragraph.
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While reading, make brief notes of the question paper that summarize the information contained in each section or paragraph.
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Read the statements and highlight the key words.
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Matching names uses synonyms and paraphrase extensively so think of these when highlighting key words.
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Read the list of names and scan the text to match examples of these.
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Be aware that the names from the list will be mentioned several times in the text.
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Read before and after the name for the information about them.
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Read the statements again and the sections of the text carefully and match the statements.
Example:
Statement 5. They devised a civil calendar in which the months were equal in length.
Text: Centuries before the Roman Empire, the Egyptians had formulated a municipal calendar having 12 months of 30 days,
Answer 5: B
Note the use of synonyms and paraphrase.
Synonyms:
Statement Text
devised formulated
civil municipal
Paraphrase:
Statement
the months were equal in length
Text
having 12 months of 30 days