Desertification Reading Exercise & Useful Vocab

Reading lesson on Desertification to develop ideas and vocabulary for IELTS.  This lesson will provide you with ideas and vocabulary for IELTS writing task 2, speaking part 3 and the reading test.

Desertification: IELTS Environmental Topic

Before, you start your reading exercise. Let me explain a word to you relating to this topic. Desertification is a type of land degradation in which a relatively dry land region becomes increasingly arid, typically losing its bodies of water as well as vegetation and wildlife. It is caused by a variety of factors, such as climate change and human activities. Desertification is a significant global ecological and environmental problem.

The questions below are called Matching Headings Questions which are common in IELTS reading. They require you to match the heading title to a paragraph in the passage. The titles are to summarise the main aim of the paragraph.

Matching Headings Reading Practice

The reading passage below has 8 paragraphs (A-H).

Choose the correct heading for each paragraph from the list below.

Questions 1 – 8

Match each paragraph below to a title from the list. Not all letters will be used.

  • I     Overgrazing
  • II    Mass migration
  • III   Overpopulation
  • IV   Polluted drinking water
  • V    Famine
  • VI   Extinction of species
  • VII   Deforestation
  • VIII  Poverty
  • IX   Unsustainable agriculture techniques
  • X    Soil infertility

Reading Passage: Desertification Causes and Effects

Causes of Desertification

A  Trees are being cut down at much larger scale than ever before to be used as fuel, to provide products we use in our daily life, or to simply create more space for agriculture to sustain growing human population. Once the trees and other vegetation in an area are gone, there is nothing left to hold the soil in place.

B   Our planet’s ecosystems sustain life only when balanced. They can cope with incremental challenges and adapt but beyond a certain tipping point they collapse. A rapid increase in the number of people demands higher amounts of natural resources and expands more and more over the landscape, leading to increased desertification.

C   Improper irrigation methods used in arid areas, such as canal irrigation, lead to a buildup of salt in the soil and make it difficult for crops and other plants to grow, increasing desertification. Similarly harmful is cultivation of already deteriorated lands. Through inconsiderate farming methods, farmers only speed up the process of desertification in exchange for poor quality crops with low economic value.

D  In arid regions, grass and other vegetation is necessary to keep the soil in place. If such vegetation is used as feed for cattle without sustainable control, there is nothing that remains to prevent soil from blowing or washing away, and if this process occurs long enough, it can lead to desertification.

Effects of Desertification

 As desertification occurs, the soil can be blown or washed away, and valuable soil nutrients are lost. As the soil dries out, it hardens and it becomes difficult for any rainfall that does occur to penetrate below the soil’s surface. And what remains left is a lifeless pile of dust instead of a life-giving medium.

F   Due to drought conditions and a loss of productive land, local people find themselves and their livestock experiencing starvation.

 Desertification events have been a major driver behind the movement of large human populations throughout history. When soils are not able to support their civilisation, people set on the move to look for better locations.

H   Species that once lived in a fertile and productive climate may not survive in a newly desertified region.

ANSWERS

The answers are now available for this reading lesson. Click below for Answers:

Answers

Please remember that in the real IELTS test, if you are asked to write a letter, you must write the letter and not the word. Always following instructions very carefully for IELTS.

  • A  = VII
    • Deforestation. Keywords: Trees are being cut down
  • B  =  III
    • Overpopulation. Keywords: A rapid increase in the number of people
  • C  =  IX
    • Unsustainable agriculture techniques. Keywords: Improper irrigation methods / inconsiderate farming methods
  • D  =  I
    • Overgrazing. Keywords: feed for cattle without sustainable control
  • E  =  X
    • Soil infertility. Keywords: valuable soil nutrients are lost /  soil dries out / lifeless pile of dust
  • F  =  V
    • Famine. Keywords: people find themselves and their livestock experiencing starvation.
  • G  =  II
    • Mass migration. Keywords: movement of large human populations
  • H  =  VI
    • Extinction of species. Keywords: Species …………………. may not survive …

.

This reading exercise was easier than a normal Academic reading passage and is similar in level to a GT passage section 3. However, it is a great starting exercise for Academic candidates to get used to Matching Headings Questions. Now try something more difficult. See below:

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Comments

  1. josche says

    Hi, Ms Liz. Thank you so much for all your IELTS website. They are so helpful and please keep them coming. Wish you all the best and good health cuz you’re a blessing to people like me.

  2. Farbod says

    thank you so much Lis, It’s such a great honor to have you as a teacher, personally I’m so grateful.
    wish you the best.

  3. Adebayo Afeez says

    Hi Liz, Thank you so much for your assistance.
    I attempted this exercise and was able to finish within 10mins and I got everything correct……so happy

  4. Ruth says

    Hi Liz, Thank you for your valuable lessons.

    I had a query regarding Q.6, where it states that, it is the “drought” that led to starvation. But, as I was writing to you, I realised the heading was “effects of desertification”, so “drought” is the cause and not the effect.

    Only penning it here, in case if this is right and can be useful for others as well.

    Once again, thank you.

  5. Thank you so much for your work, you are really doing wonders here..
    From my observation,the comprehension looks so easy if you already have the knowledge of the topic..
    So my question now,Is their any expected areas (Topics) where they normally generate the context of their questions from.?

    • I’m not completely sure what you mean, but I’ll do my best to explain and hope this helps you.
      This lesson is an easy one to help people understand the aims and techniques of matching headings. The Academic reading test will be harder than this and the GT reading test has passages which are a similar level to this. But it’s a useful lesson for all candidates to understand the question type.
      At no point in the real test will your knowledge give you an advantage in the questions. The tests are designed to avoid this. So, even if the topic is about something you know quite well, it won’t help you choose answers.
      For the GT reading test, the topics for the reading test are quite easy – timetables, work schedules, information leaflets, and similar passages to this. So, the language is familiar. The Academic test does not often have familiar topics. Topics could be about psychology, a famous person, an animal, an invention or discovery etc. The passage might also contain words you’ve never seen before.

      • Thank you so much
        My question was about area of concentration about the GT reading text topics especially the part 3 and you have given me some hint..

        • The topics for GT passage 3 are not really predictable, unlike the first two passages. It is better to focus on techniques for question types than on topics for that passage. Passage 3 is slightly more similar to the Academic Reading test in this aspect.

      • I want clarifications on the mode of writing answers in academic test. I’ve written IELTS but yet to get the desire band score, so I decided to look for on site teacher in my preparatory classes. Here are my questions Firstly, I use to write all my answers in capital letters for both listening and reading test but my new said is good but for list of heading questions ( the ones that the answers are always in numericals) that I should not write it in upper case letters. For example
        Question 14: i
        what I use to write is : I.
        Also, for matching features such as names, date etc what is the best method to attack this.
        I await your response from this Liz
        Thanks

  6. Humayun Kabir says

    Really helpful,
    Thank you very much

    • You’re welcome 🙂

      • Bisrat Tekeste says

        i have got 7 out of 8. i miss number 6 because i said it povorty but the answer is E so i am so happy and exited for getting your website and learn every prosidures you sent. you started good,helpful and woderfule lessons for ielts practice.

  7. Abdul salam khan says

    i think this lesson was quit easy, and real test is much tough than this.

    • My lessons are to gain awareness of question types, build skills and gain confidence. These lessons are not IELTS tests, they are IELTS preparation lessons. Some of my reading lessons are easier and some much more difficult. It allows people of different levels of English to prepare. But all candidates must, at some point, also prepare using authentic test materials produced by IELTS.

  8. Thanks a ton its very helpful indeed.

  9. Happiness says

    This is beautiful! Just attempted it and scored 8/8.
    Thank you, Liz! ❤️

  10. Oginni oluwatoyin says

    Hello Liz, Thanks for taking out precious time to teach and help out for free. You are so kind. I pray you get better soon . I will continue to pray for you until your healing is sure and delivered. Take care.

  11. Srinivasarao talluri says

    Good Liz i like your techniques….up to now all free content i read….what more in your store and how much to purchase all..

  12. Hi Liz
    Thanks you for the explanation provided on how to tackle the reading tasks, especially this section with the paragraphs. I have received full score by the way.

    • Glad it’s useful 🙂

      • K. Supriya says

        liz.. please start making the videos.. we need your videos more to build confidence. 🙂

        • I’ll make more videos when my health allows.

          • Timi Oladipupo says

            Hi Liz.

            I hope you are getting better now?

            Just checking up on you

            • Unfortunately, I’m not getting better. This year actually turned out to be really awful for me. But I’m hopeful next year will be better. Fingers crossed. Thanks for your concern 🙂

              • Mohamed says

                How’s the situation now? I hope you recovered. My prayers with you.

                • Thanks. It’s a long-term illness so recovery is slow and not guaranteed.

              • THANKS FOR EVERYTHING LIZ.
                CAN I ALSO WRITE IN CAPITAL LETTERS FOR COMPUTER BASED EXAM DURING READING AND WRITING EXAM.

                • The reading test is marked based on whether the answer you write is right or wrong. Therefore using capital letters is a good idea for the paper test, which requires handwritten answers, but not necessary for the computer test. It’s your choice entirely. This is not the case with the writing test. Part of the marking criteria for writing is Grammar and this includes the correct use of capital letters. So, don’t use all capitals for the writing test, only use them when grammatically correct to do so.

            • Ganiyyah says

              Hi Liz, I hope your health is improving. Just keep on believing and keeping strong ma’am. We love you

    • I got 8/8 . Thanks Liz ,i heard that you are suffering from severe illness.Hope you have a speed recovery,god bless you.

  13. Thanks Liz. I got 8/8.

  14. I got 7/8. Thanks Liz. You are blessed.

  15. I love you LIZ
    I have identified all the headings correctly.

  16. Maureen Cindy says

    Thanks Liz
    I got 8/8

  17. lipsa says

    i got 5/8

  18. Anvar says

    1B
    2C
    3B
    4A

  19. haneen says

    hello liz,
    i tried a few days ago to solve these question, but the meaning of many words stopped me and i feel that i will not be able to understand or answer these questions. does this mean that i need to raise my level in english or learn an memorize these vocabulary and then repeat the solution again

    • IELTS is all about the band score you are aiming for. If you need band 5, you won’t need to get so many answers correct. It is normal for band 5 candidates to struggle with the passages. If you are aiming for band 6, you ought to be able to tackle the passages but find them not so easy in places. Your level of English needs to match the band score you are aiming for. You should take your test when your English and exam skills are at their peak.

      • haneen says

        thank you, Miss liz, but i want to ask another question..
        now I an trying to extract the words that I con not understand and write them in my notebook an try to memorize and repeat them..
        in the end I will return to answer the question again..
        Is this enough to strengthen and improve my language or not?

        • Only you can answer that. You try one method and see if it’s effective. If it isn’t, try another. Each reading passage will be completely different to another. Topic based language isn’t enough. This is about your general level of English. You might need to find an English language website rather than an exam skills website.

  20. Monica says

    Dear Liz,

    I would like to express my deepest gratitude.
    This has been the most eye-opening practice.
    As a background, I completed at least 3 types of training for IELTS and no one has advised me on “how-to or where to” look for the answers. In other words how to search for the keywords when it comes to matching headings.
    In my case, even when knowing all the concepts and definitions of the words I still could find the “trick” on how to sort out this type of question.

    Forever grateful,
    Monica

    • Be careful thinking that matching headings is about finding keywords. It isn’t quite that simple. You might have a lot of keywords in a paragraph, but the aim of the paragraph is something different. Matching headings is about paragraph aims. The lesson above is a simplified lesson, not an IELTS test. It is just the first stage in learning. go to my other matching headings lessons and try those. You’ll find them harder: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-reading-lessons-information-and-tips/

  21. ATHULRAJ says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.H
    7.B
    8.F

  22. Dina says

    Hi liz, I love your way to teach us.
    Where are you?
    Are you ok? I hope you are.
    Dina

    • Thanks. I’m still sick but I hope this year will see a bit of improvement 🙂

      • ibrahim says

        quick recovery Liz , you are the best

        • Thanks

          • Martha Wafula says

            Quickest recovery Liz, I really enjoy your videos and am doing my ielts in 3weeks time. The world needs you. Blessings. Martha

            • Thanks. Good luck!!

              • Maryjane Amarachukwu says

                Dear liz,
                I just scaled through the messages, exercise and solutions and truly you are the best. Thanks alot for all of this,and please get well soon.

                Forever grateful
                Maryjane

      • joseph says

        Hi Liz,
        I am preparing for my ielts and i visited your page and i realized it is kind of cold and i told my wife about my observation ,no wonder you have not been active for awhile. I wish you quick recovery because you are second to none when it comes to ielts

        • Thanks. It’s really awful not being able to do much work. I can’t wait to be better to enjoy the work I love 🙂

  23. Amanpreet kaur says

    Hi Mam
    Please tell me the technique to do this type of question. What should I read first and match. Heading with para or para with heading. Please give me the appropriate technique to do this. It would be really an honor

    • Which is presented first? The headings or the passage? Take a look and you have your answer.

  24. MITHILESH says

    Hey Liz,
    First of all thanks a lot for sharing your knowledge with the test takers. Hat’s off to you.
    I got 8 on 8 in this question; is this the level of difficulty that we can expect in the actual test or it’s way more harder. Also, what steps do you suggest for improving my vocabulary.
    Thanks in advance.

    • The level of this reading lesson is easier than the Academic Reading Test. It is a gentle way to get to know Matching Headings and become aware of the skills needed to tackle the question type. This lesson is more similar to the level of Academic Reading: http://ieltsliz.com/ielts-matching-headings/. My lessons are to build awareness and skills, but you still need to practice with authentic tests published by IELTS. Get the IELTS Cambridge test books, you can see them explained here: https://ieltsliz.com/recommended-books-for-ielts/. If you can’t find the books, go to the BC IELTS website and you’ll find one free test. The passages for the Reading test are wide and varied. You can’t learn vocabulary specifically for the Reading test because you have no idea what the topic will be. Improving your vocabulary in general can be done by reading model essays, buying vocabulary books, reading books in general, reading about science, technology, history etc, listening to documentaries, using English English dictionaries etc. You can find links to useful language learning sites here: https://ieltsliz.com/useful-websites-and-resources-for-ielts/. All these links are accessible through the RED navigation bar the top of the website – use it to learn more and gain more access to information.

  25. Sana Arif says

    What is the actual skeleton of reading test? I mean how many sections are there? How the the passages question come? whether all the passages are written at together & all the question at the bottom?

    • Go to the main Reading Section of this website for all information. Use the HOME page to access it or the RED MENU Bar at the top of the site. You’ll find links to Reading Test Information and also a Full Authentic Test from the BC. This will answer all your questions. This website contains nearly all the information you need to prepare for IELTS – use all sections and pages.

  26. Ishan S. says

    Thanks a bunch, dear Liz, for all the untiring and selfless efforts you have put into creating and maintaining this website and all the resources it has to offer. I have my IELTS exam next month and I’ve been spending time browsing your website and it has truly helped me a lot to organize my study patterns and hone my skills. Thanks, once again.

    Good wishes and warmth from India.

    • You’re welcome 🙂

      • Thanks so much Liz, I’ve been practising with your tutorials, my exam is next month, I know I will succeed and will come back with a testimony. God bless you ma..

  27. Toluwabori says

    I was so excited i got all correctly. Thank you so much Liz for all you have put into this website. I look forward to smashing my Band score goals.

  28. Thanks a lot Ms Liz. You are God sent. I enjoy your teachings the way you simplify them. I got 8/8.

  29. Chris says

    Thanks Miss Liz… you’re a helping hand..

  30. Nathaniel Elom Fugah says

    Hi Liz,

    What happens when you don’t know what a word means? For example: I didn’t know what overgrazing meant, so I missed the question.

    Any tips?

    Thank you for letting me know.

    • At the end of the day, this is an English language test. The questions are testing not only your understanding of the general meaning, but individual words. This is one of the main reasons why some people get band 8 and others get band 6 – the level of their English. If you don’t know a word and it is a keyword, then you will most likely get that question wrong. But if it isn’t a keyword, you can often understand the word from the context. You look at the general meaning of the sentences before and after, and then you predict the meaning through logic.

  31. Hi Mam,

    Hope you are doing good

    First of all, thank you so much for giving all this stuff to preparing for IELTS and I am enjoying it a lot in my way of knowledge phase. In this session, I have got 8/8 points on my self-assessment test. The point you said matches always with meaning to meaning, not from the word to words. It is greatly helpful for us to bang a high score.

    Thank you,

    Regards,
    One of your unknown student.

  32. Hariharan Murali says

    This massive open online source for IELTS is just what the doctor ordered. Loving the content. Thanks for the effort Liz :)))

  33. I got all the questions right.
    Dear Liz,i really appreciate you.

  34. Mohan Sundaram says

    Very excited! got 8/8.
    Thanks much, Liz

  35. Hitesh Nakra says

    Hi Liz,

    It is really useful, Thanks! but I have one confusion in question 6. Can we choose Poverty instead of Famine? I believe both have same meaning and there is not much difference in them.

    Thanks

    • They have very different meanings. Poverty relates to lack of money. Famine relates to lack of food (starvation).

  36. Hi Liz,
    I used your website and YouTube videos as my prime source of practice apart from the IELTS practice sheets and scored an amazing overall band 8.5 with L-9, R-9,W-8.5 and S-7.5 in 2017 but my immigration process got delayed and my scores expired and now I am forced to write my IELTS again with no to little practice time. I am really worried that I have crossed that age of quick learning and have been completely out of touch with any serious English language writing and speaking . Hoping to get some positivity and encouragement and starting all over again!!

    • It’s definitely never too late at all. Just looking at your written message, your language skills are all there. Now all you have to do is to review the test and remember some of the techniques. When it comes to learn and absorbing knowledge, enthusiasm counts for a lot. So, put aside your doubts, and engage in learning with enthusiasm. Start enjoying the lessons on this website. Even with a short time to prepare, you can review a lot. Also, have a strategy. Make a list of things to review and start from there. Use your time well, don’t delay and don’t doubt. Just throw yourself into it as a fun challenge 🙂 Wishing you lots of luck!!

  37. Hi Liz,

    I got all of them correctly just because of your tips. Thanks

  38. Esmiael says

    I matched all of them correctly thanks to your clever and fabulous tricks and tips🔥

    • Well done 🙂 Now it’s time to take these techniques and apply them to a more difficult passage. Try an authentic practice test which you can find for free on the BC IELTS website.

  39. lisa Anthony says

    8/8
    Thanks Liz im performing tremendously
    God bless you 🙏

  40. Thanks mam
    Got 6/7
    Just confused with famine
    Your practice test’s for different questions are really helpful for students who preparing at home.
    Really kudos to your work👏👏

  41. Only one mistake.Thanks,Lis.

  42. Arshdeep Singh Brar says

    Thanks alot Liz..
    I got 8/8 but before this I got 0/4. I was able to achieve this, post following your mentioned techniques.

    • Well done. Once you are familiar with techniques, you should try a full authentic test at home. Go to the BC IELTS website and use their free test.

  43. Ugochi Ijoma -Wosu says

    I got 8/8.
    Thank you Liz . I am getting better .

  44. Omar Izhar says

    got 7/8 really helpful.

  45. Srikanth says

    8/8

  46. Alby Blanc says

    8/8 thanks

  47. Priyanka says

    Got 6/7 . I captured the right keyword but I was not knowing the meaning for Famine. Now i got it. Thank you Liz

  48. Alok Sharma says

    Hi ,Liz Its really usefull i got 6/8,

  49. Stepney Emeh says

    I got 8/8. I am so happy. I have just one month until my exams. Wish me luck. Thanks Liz.

  50. I got 6/8 i need more hardwork. By the way thank you mam for your helpful it is really useful.

  51. ABDULBORIY says

    hello everyone i have found 8/8

  52. I got 7/8
    I have summarized every paragraph with key words to be more efficient

  53. Derick Chacko says

    Dear Liz,

    You have been wonderful so far. Great work. Truly admired.

    Best Wishes.

  54. PRAKSHI ANEJA says

    Hello Liz
    I was following your youtube channel, but I came to know about your blog yesterday. I had problem with TFNG and Matching headings question but your tips really helped me. The only thing that’s bothering me is, whenever I used to practice mocks the headings in the questions were long while the exercises you have given have short headings.
    I get confused with the long headings, can you suggest some tips in this regard?
    Thank you

    • Look for three types of keywords in the headings:
      1) that makes the heading unique
      2) that makes the heading similar to other headings
      3) that will help you locate the information or the type of information you need to find in the passage
      Then spend time thinking about those keywords and finding paraphrases for those keywords. The more analysis and preparation you do of the headings, the easier it will be to get the right answers.
      Only after you do all this should you go to the passage. If you find one paragraph with two potential headings, mark both on the question paper and move to the next paragraph. At the end of the paragraphs, you will have reduced the number of options and the one you were stuck on should be easier.

  55. Pauline kabakabana says

    What a great improvement,l got everything correct.

  56. Allwin says

    Dear Liz,
    I believe I am improving.. all my answers were correct… Thank you so much for your cooperation…

  57. UZMA FIRDAUS says

    Thank you so much Liz for your countless efforts in guiding the aspirants 🙂

  58. Liz please I want some free materials general training base

    • GT candidates take the SAME listening and speaking test. All lessons on this site can be used for listening and speaking. Writing task 2 is essentially the same – use my lessons. Reading has the same question types as the Academic test which means the same skills and approach – use my lessons. This means, the only aspect of GT IELTS that is completely unique and separate from the Academic test is the Letter in Writing Task 1 – see the main writing task 1 page for essential Letter Tips.

      • Biniam says

        Liza what a wonderful person you are!i didn’t know where to start,but all your resources are helping me alot.so i want to thank you for all the efforts you have made.God bless you,am really proud of you.oh i 4got plus you have a nice voice.

        • That’s nice 🙂 Thanks. I’m really please you are benefiting from the lessons 🙂

  59. Harjot Singh says

    Good for building confidence.

    Thank You 🙂

  60. Poompat says

    Hello Liz, this practice is really helpful. I got 8/8 scores. Maybe because it is a general topic so I did it great. Thank you for the trick.

    • It was quite an essay practice, but it’s useful for building confidence and also awareness.

  61. Dr.GANESH PATIL says

    Heyy Liz,
    Thanks a lot for such a wonderful website for IELTS preperation.I secured my desired score in ILETS ACADEMIC due to your efforts & guidance u took to form this website.I was able to clear the test in first attempt without any classes & coaching.The credit goes to you.THANKS A LOT AGAIN.GOD BLESS YOU….

  62. Liz,
    I just have booked my IELTS test for the next 27th and Ive studying a lot almost every day. I watched all your videos and Ive reading all contents in your website.
    If I get a good grade, I definetely owe my success to you.
    Thanks for influence students positively and encourage people all over the world.
    I always put you in my prayers.
    Thanks for everythink you have done for us.
    Best regards from Brazil.

  63. Manish says

    Thanks, Liz it’s helpful 🙂

  64. Thanks for this Liz.

  65. John Sunday says

    Thanks liz. For the first I got matching headings questions all. 8/8

  66. Masud Abdullah says

    Its amazing when you can really feel the positive change… Thank a ton Liz. GBU.

  67. Thanks! it was very helpful.

  68. Badmus Dayo says

    Wow, thanks Lizzie. This is really a helpful platform. I answered the passage above and I got all the answers correct:
    G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F
    God bless you

  69. Thanks Liz. Am not used to the question and just began the practice on this page. I got 7/8. Thanks.

  70. Zainab noor says

    It was my first attempt , even I was not familiar of the type of question .. Still I scored full 8/8 .. Thanks to Almighty and Liz 😍

    • Well done. Once you are familiar with question types and techniques, you will need to try real IELTS tests in the Cambridge IELTS test books from 1 to 14.

  71. Thankyou so much Liz.
    It was good lesson but i couldnot understand the meaning of starvation and famine thatsy one question marked wrong.please suggest how can i improve my vocabulary.

  72. Kevwe D says

    8/8 Thank you Liz.
    I hope I get a band 9 this time around.

  73. I answered all correctly.

    Thank you Liz. I love you💜

  74. Getrude says

    Thank Liz.I lost 1

  75. Neelam Nishad says

    I answered all correct…..
    Thankyou liz

  76. Ezinne Uzoagba says

    Wow! I answered all the questions correctly! Practice does make perfect. Thank you so much Liz. You are a darling 😍😘

  77. Thanks a ton Liz !

  78. MD SAZZADUR RAHAMN says

    Correctly answer all of them

  79. Lovepreet Singh says

    correctly answered all of them. thank you:)

  80. Achyut Tripathi says

    Got them right , thank u 🙂

  81. Thank you so much Liz mam…
    you are great and I need Your blessing for this week Exam…

  82. Harshita says

    You are best Liz. Even I got all eight right. Will try with the difficult once now. Thanks for all the content.

  83. Dolapo says

    Hi Liz, I just practiced this question and I scored 8 out of 8. First time I’m scoring all in matching heading.

    Thank you Liz for this . We are grateful

    • Fraulein says

      Wow! Same here. I just practiced now and i got 8/8. I’m really having a hard time in matching before. Such a helpful tips from you Liz!

      Thank you!

  84. kehinde says

    Matching has always been one of my major problems in reading, i have really improved now.its just like magic.
    Thanks Liz.

    • Excellent. However, this was an easy lesson. Did you try the matching headings less I posted yesterday? You can find it in the Recent Lessons List on the right hand side bar (for desktop) or below any post (for smart phones).

      • Ereun Success says

        O my God!…I did really good. Thanks ma and God bless u immensely for your lessons.

  85. Ajay Anandan says

    Hi Mam,
    My name is Ajay Anandan , Would like to write an email regarding IELTS . Could you please provide me the model question paper.Once I grow through it I will start to prepare for my IELTS .I would like to know the difference between IELTS and PTE.

    Kind regrads ,
    Ajay Anandan.M

    • Do you mean you want a full test? You can find one full test for free on the British Council website for IELTS.

  86. Hi, Liz.

    I got 9 out of 8 )

  87. Suresh says

    Thank you Liz for your great job. I got 8/8. Answers with the explanation help us understand the questions and answer clearly. I would like to do more practice in reading. If you have any subscription please let me know.

    • There are plenty reading exercises like this. Go to the Red Menu Bar and click “Reading”.

  88. Aishwarya says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

    Thank you, Liz for this practice exercise I answered all of them correctly and scored 8/8.

  89. Nagesh says

    Thanks Liz.

    got 7/8.

  90. Shamim Ahmed says

    Really good and hope that any one can be benefited from LIZ

  91. 1G
    2C
    3I
    4 j
    5J
    6E
    7B
    8F
    Thanks liz I got 7/8

  92. Timothy says

    Deforestation
    Overpopulation
    I- unsustainable
    Overgrazing
    Soil infertility
    Famine
    Mass migration
    Extinctions of species.

  93. Lamiya says

    1G
    2C
    3I
    4A
    5J
    6H
    7B
    8E
    Thanks Liz

  94. Jyoti Belani says

    1.G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F
    I got 7/8 Thanks Liz.

  95. Your blog is really helpful .

  96. Samson says

    Great help which this site offers cannot be overemphasized.

    Thank you Liz.

  97. 1 G
    2 C
    3 I
    4 E
    5 J
    6 E
    7 B
    8 F

  98. Youngkook Kim says

    Thanks, Liz!!
    I got 8/8

  99. Reham mahrous says

    You are such an amazing teacher

  100. I believe I’m improving a lot with your tests,
    Thanks Liz 😉

    Wish you the best,

  101. Ramya says

    I feel confident now. Thank you so much Ma’m.

  102. Saurabh says

    I have got 8/8. Thank you Liz for helping us out in such a larger way.

  103. Sajib says

    Liz,you are really an amazing teacher ever I seen before,thanks dear

  104. Sajib says

    Lisa,you are really an amazing teacher,I like your technique so much,thanks liz

  105. MANPREET SINGH says

    Thank you LIz. but there are some diffucult words in questions.

  106. TutuChisom says

    Wish some questions came in this format. Thank you liz. Got them right!

    • I’m glad your confidence is building 🙂 Soon it will be time to try real tests at home using the IELTS Cambridge test books. The level will be more difficult but the skills involved will be the same.

  107. OREOLUWA says

    I GOT ALL THE 8 QUESTIONS RIGHT.THANK YOU LIZ,THE PASSAGE IS VERY INTRESTING.

  108. m penchala vinay says

    this is my first task…and i did it successfully without any mistake…thanku liz

    • Pradeep says

      As most of us are aware of Deforestation, it was easy to choose the right answers!!

  109. Ruchita says

    I got 7 out of 7 here. I just wanted to say to you that I am almost doing well all in your sample tests both for reading and listening part till date. Writing and speaking I have not yet touched. Is it possible if I score good in your sample tests can I get 8 band score. All credit goes to you, the way you teach us through your videos. Even a beginner gets a good insight of the topic. Many many thanks to you Liz.

    • Liz says

      You need to practice with full tests, not just my lessons. My lessons are to build confidence, skills and awareness. You need to apply what you have learned to real IELTS tests. Get the free test on the BC website or buy the IELTS Cambridge test books which contain real IELTS tests that have been previously used.

      • Ruchita says

        I have already purchased volume 11 of Cambridge IELTs for General Training. Do I need to buy all of the 10 volume books.

        • Liz says

          It is your choice how many tests you practice. You should use some tests for practising under exam conditions at home and then use more tests for developing skills and analysing your weak points.

  110. John justin says

    I got a perfect score liz. Thanks, but I need to focus on my time. Need to practice more. This is a big help though. 😊👌👌

  111. Momand says

    I got 4/8 disappoined

  112. Thanks LIZ.
    I got 8/8.
    i am writing in April, hoping to learn more before then.

  113. Ossama says

    I don’t believe it.
    I’ve got all correct. I’ve been studying for months. My level has been improved with your advises.
    Thank you so much.

    • I’m really glad for you 🙂 Now, it is time for you to practice with real tests in the IELTS Cambridge test books. You will need to apply your skills to a long passage.

  114. jumii says

    Thank you Liz…You are the best

  115. DEWNI KITHARA says

    Thanks Liz..
    This is my first practise..
    I got 5/8..
    💪🙏

  116. Kumar Nitol says

    I scored 8/8……..thanks Liz for this practice lesson…….and I guess I encounter more difficulty in the first passage in Cambridge books 🙂

  117. I got 7/8. Very useful exercise, thanks

  118. Priyanka says

    Hi, I got 6/8. as you said i applied the technique it is really improved. Thank you so much. I’m very glad to find this website before my IELTS preparation.

  119. Got 10/10

  120. Thank you Liz..l got 7/8
    I find your website so helpful.

  121. God Bless u Liz

  122. Thanks Liz ! I got 7/8, but i think terms like overgrazing, Famine, one has to be familiar with them in order to relate and answer correctly.

  123. Wow! I got 8/8. Thank you very much Liz. I find your website very useful for my preparation.

  124. Thank you Liz ^^ It’s been really helpful in preparing me for my IELTS exam

  125. Mansaf says

    Thank you a lot Liz!
    I have got 7/8
    I’m happy for it.

  126. Haseeb says

    Excellent Job

  127. Thank you Dear Liz, Your study materials are really helpful, God bless u in abundance. LOVE from India

  128. Daphnyz says

    Finally! I got 8/8 yes! thank you.

  129. Love you.. lizz..you r best…

  130. Mayumi Shehara says

    Thank you so much dear Liz.. I achieved 8/8 and all your materials are so helpful! Much more blessings to you!

  131. Charles Enoma says

    Thank you Liz. I got 8/8. Charles from Nigeria

  132. Very helpful..Tnx dear Liz:*

  133. dare ayanwale says

    Below are my answers. I have done two of your exercise now and i got 100% in the first and 90% in this also. Thanks for the TIPS, very helpful
    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.
    5.J
    6. E
    7.B
    8.F

  134. Jaishnavi says

    Thank you Liz. Yours is the best & most dependable site I have ever come through .

  135. shilpa vincent says

    I got 7/8

  136. Wao, i got 8/8 thank you liz for this wonderful platform. I need your blessing my exam is this week.

  137. Macjane says

    G,C,I,A,E,H,B,F 6/8

  138. 8/8
    in less than 10 minutes

  139. Bayezid says

    7/8

  140. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

    8/8

    Posted my comments yesterday. Not sure why it did not appear here

  141. 1;G
    2:C
    3:I
    4:E
    5:J
    6:H
    7:B
    8:A

  142. 1) G
    2) C
    3) I
    4) A
    5) J
    6) E
    7) B
    8) F

  143. G
    C
    E
    I
    J
    H
    B
    F

  144. Suraj timalsena says

    1) G
    2) C
    3) I
    4) A
    5) J
    6) E
    7) B
    8) F

  145. cringles says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5.J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  146. Perpetua says

    G,C,I,A,J,E,B,F

  147. Perpetua says

    1)G
    2) C
    3) I
    4) A
    5) J
    6) E
    7) B
    8) F

  148. 1.G
    2.C
    3.J
    4.A
    5.E
    6.H
    7.B
    8.F

  149. 1 – G
    2 – C
    3 – I
    4 – A
    5 – J
    6 – E
    7 – B
    8 – F

  150. Juned Ahmed says

    1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-E
    5-J
    6-H
    7-B
    8-F

  151. 1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

  152. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. J
    5. E
    6. H
    7. F

  153. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F

  154. bandana says

    1-g
    two-c
    3-i
    4-a
    5-j
    ix-e
    even-m
    8-f

  155. 1G, 2C, 3J, 4A, 5I, 6E, 7B, 8F

  156. 1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  157. Gregor says

    1) G
    2) C
    3)I
    4)A
    5)J
    6)H
    7)B
    8)F

  158. Charles Rolland says

    Hi Liz, These are my answers for the reading passage on desertification: (1).G (2).C (3).I (4).A (5).J (6).E (7).B (8).F. Thanks

  159. Charles E. Rolland says

    Hi Liz, These are my answers for the reading passage on desertification: (1).G (2).C (3).I (4).A (5).J (6).E (7).B (8).F. Thanks

  160. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  161. Apurva says

    G
    C
    I
    J
    D
    A
    B
    F

  162. Pabitra K Bhattacharjee says

    1 G
    2 C
    3 J
    4 A
    5 E
    6 H
    7 B
    8 F

  163. G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  164. 1. G
    2. C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  165. 1. G
    2. H
    3. E
    4. A
    5. J
    6. B
    7.I
    8. F

  166. sandip says

    G C I A J H B F

  167. Amisha raut says

    1- g
    2- c
    3-i
    4 -a
    5-j
    6- h
    7-b
    8- g

  168. Ify Joy says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  169. Sindhu Swamy says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.H
    7.B
    8.F

  170. Chandarketu kumar says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  171. RAHMAN says

    G, A, I, J, E, H, B, F

  172. perpetual says

    1-G
    2-c
    3-b
    4-a
    5-h
    6-i
    7-j
    8-f

  173. Mehraj says

    1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

  174. Renex Rozario says

    G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  175. Shanika Weragoda says

    1 – G
    2- E
    3- I
    4- A
    5- J
    6- H
    7- B
    8- F

  176. Azmat Ali says

    1)G
    2)C
    3)I
    4)A
    5)H
    6)E
    7)B
    8)J

  177. Ram krishna says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  178. 1–F,G
    2–C
    3–I
    4–A
    5–B,D
    6–H
    7–E
    8–J

  179. Manpreet Singh says

    1. Deforestation
    2. Overpopulation
    3. Unsustainable irrigation methods
    4. Overgazing
    5. Soil infertility
    6. Famine
    7. Mass migration
    8. Extinction of species

  180. Shubhneet kaur says

    1.G
    1.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  181. JANE E says

    1- G
    2- C
    3- I
    4- A
    5- J
    6- E
    7- B
    8- F

  182. 1) G
    2) C
    3) I
    4)A
    5) J
    6) E
    7)B
    8) F

  183. Esther Maureen Matola says

    1=G
    2=C
    3=I
    4=A
    5=J
    6=E
    7=B
    8=F

  184. Huairen Zhang says

    G C I A J H B F

  185. 1: c
    2: a
    3: i
    4: f
    5: g
    6 : e
    7 : b
    8: j

  186. Shubhangi Gupta says

    G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  187. Wellington says

    1 ; Deforestration G
    2; Overpopulation C
    3; Unsustainable agricultural technics I
    4; Overgrazing A
    5; Soil infertility J
    6; Famine E
    7; Mass migration B
    8; Extinction of species F

  188. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  189. 1. G
    2. C
    3, I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  190. 1:G
    2:C
    3:I
    4:A
    5:J
    6:E
    7:B
    8:F

  191. 1 G 2 C 3I 4 A 5J 6 E. 7 B 8 F

  192. Kenalemang Juliah Osenotse says

    1-g
    2_c
    3_i
    4_a
    5_j
    6_h
    7_b
    8_f

  193. Cynthia ifeoma says

    G
    F
    J
    E
    I
    H
    C
    B

  194. RUPESH SOPHAT says

    1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A,
    5-J
    6-H
    7-B
    8-F

  195. Hannah Bautista says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  196. sunita sharma says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F

  197. Dilruba Akter says

    G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  198. Sanni Wasiu says

    G C I A J E B F

  199. Ninh Hai Nam says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. J
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  200. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  201. SHUBHAM says

    1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

  202. Eman Al-Chalabi says

    1. G
    2.C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  203. Furqan Zeb says

    1-F
    2-C
    3-I
    4-J
    5-D
    6-H
    7-B
    8-F
    Please reply and give my answers a band score

    • I will post the answers tomorrow.

      • Thank You for being so helpful.
        Actually I didn’t know the meaning of some words and later when I studied the whole passage. I got the exact answers but then I had been posted my answers but there was no option how to edit.

  204. kamzozo says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.E
    6.H
    7.B
    8.F

  205. Racheal says

    Thanks for the exercise Liz.
    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  206. Racheal says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  207. Gurvinder singh says

    These are the answers of reading
    Hlo liz mam
    1 G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F
    Could you please check all of these

  208. 1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  209. G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  210. Nikhil Menon says

    Nikhil says:-
    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  211. G, C, I, A, J, E, B, F

  212. 1. G
    2. C
    3.C
    4. E
    5. J
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F

  213. Oluwatosin heritage says

    G C I A J E B F

  214. Oluwatosin heritage says

    Answer to deforestation
    1 G,2 C,3 I 4 A 5 J 6 E 7 B, 8 F

  215. G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  216. 1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

  217. Raihana says

    G
    C
    I
    A
    J
    E
    B
    F

  218. Raihana says

    1 – G
    2 – C
    3 – I
    4 – A
    5 – J
    6 – E
    7 – B
    8 – F
    Thanks Liz

  219. jennifer says

    1) G
    2) C
    3) I
    4) A
    5) J
    6) E
    7) B
    8) F

  220. 1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  221. 1-g
    2-C
    3-J
    4-G
    5-I
    6-E
    7-B
    88-F

  222. Ans
    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  223. Aruba Walia says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  224. Chris Morris says

    1 Deforestation
    2 Overpopulation
    3 Unsustainable Agricultural Techniques
    4 Overgrazing
    5 Soil Infertility
    6 Famine
    7 Mass Migration
    8 Extinction

  225. Supriya says

    Answers:
    1–G
    2–C
    3–I
    4—A
    5–J
    6–H
    7–B
    8–F

  226. Ejimokun Abimbola says

    G C I A J E B F

  227. No 6 is E famine
    No 7 mass immigration
    No 1 G

  228. shaheena says

    1_8 answer…..G_C_I_A_J_E_B_F

  229. Sonam Choden says

    Hi Liz
    My answers for the Reading Practice topic: Desertification Causes and Effects are given below:
    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. E
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F

    Thank you.

  230. 1-g
    2-c
    3-i
    4-a
    5-j
    6-h
    7-b
    8-f

  231. 1. Deforestation
    2. Overpopulation
    3 Unsustainable agriculture technique
    4. Overgrazing
    5. Soil infertility
    6. Famine
    7. Mass migration
    8. Extinction of species

  232. 1. Deforestation g
    2. Over population c
    3. Unsustainable agriculture techinques i
    4. Overgrazing a
    5.soil infertility
    6.famine j
    7.mass migration b
    8.exctinction of species f

  233. Answer of reading passage desertification cause & effects
    1.G
    2. H
    3. I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  234. 1- defotestation
    2- overpopulation
    3- unsustainable agricultural
    4- overgrazing
    5- soil infertility
    6- famine
    7- mass migration
    8- exitinction species

  235. 1. G
    2. I
    3. H
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  236. Durani01 says

    Dear Liz,
    I am one of your follower for my IELTS General Training.
    In writing task 1 you have wrote informal apology letter starts with Dear Emily, Sorry it’s taken me so long….
    my question is that “Is it ok to write 3rd form i.e. taken with it’s?” if yes then kindly explain because I am not getting it.

    Regards

    • You can use contractions in informal writing. You can’t use contractions in formal writing.

  237. Sombit Roy says

    1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

    Please verify…liz

  238. Priyanka Chopra says

    1.G..2.C..3.I..4.A..5.E..6.H..7.B..8.F

  239. 1J
    2C
    3.E
    4.I
    5.A
    6H
    7.B
    8.F

  240. 1- G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

  241. 1.G
    2.E
    3. I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.C
    7.B
    8.F

  242. 1- G
    2- C
    3 – I
    4- A
    5- J
    6- E
    7- B
    8- F

  243. M. Vinod Kumar says

    Hi, Madam Liz
    My answers are : 1-G, 2-C, 3-I, 4-A, 5-J, 6-E, 7-B, 8-F

    Thanks for the exercise.

  244. Sanjida kabir says

    Ans.deforestation.

  245. 1. G
    2. C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8.F

  246. Fabrizio Ottaviani says

    6: E

  247. HINA AFROZ says

    1 (G) deforestation
    2 (I) unsustainable agriculture
    3 (H) poverty
    4 (A) overheating
    5 (j) soil infertility
    6 (E) famine
    7 (B) mass migration
    8 (F) extinction of species

  248. sajib sen says

    1-G, 2-C, 3-I, 4-B, 5-J, 6-H, 7- E, 8-F

  249. Fabrizio Ottaviani says

    1: G
    2: C
    3: I
    4: A
    5: J
    6: H
    7: B
    8: F

  250. Charles says

    1. B
    2. C
    3. I
    4. G
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  251. Amandeep says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.F

  252. 1 G
    2 C
    3 D
    4 A
    5 J
    6 E
    7 B
    8 F

  253. Yeshey wangmo says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. H
    7. B
    8. F

  254. 1-G
    2-C
    3-I
    4-A
    5-J
    6-E
    7-B
    8-F

  255. Nargiza says

    1.G
    2.C
    3.I
    4.A
    5.J
    6.E
    7.B
    8. F

  256. Raymond says

    1. G
    2. C
    3. I
    4. A
    5. J
    6. E
    7. B
    8. F

  257. 1)G
    2) C
    3) I
    4) J
    5) A
    6) E
    7) B
    8) F

  258. Nameless says

    GCHIJEBF

  259. Srishti Garg says

    Ans: 1) Deforestation
    2) Overpopulation
    3) Unsustainable agriculture techniques
    4) Overgrazing
    5) Soil infertility
    6) Famine
    7) Mass migration
    8) Extinction of species

  260. Nameless says

    GCHAJEBF

  261. Philip says

    1-g, 2-c,3-I, 4-a,5-j,
    6-e,7h,8-f

  262. Pramodh. K says

    1:I
    2:C
    3:J
    4:A
    5:F
    6:H
    7:B
    8:E

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