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Let’s be honest …

An IELTS Course and Training Program

Many IELTS courses don’t deliver!

This IELTS Course and Membership will guide you through every preparation step required to a complete for an awesome IELTS Test including:

• Understanding your study strategy
• Crafting your exam technique
• Perfecting the appropriate language
• Building on your progress with feedback
• Using a growing collection of modules
• Bonus Videos and EBooks
• Opportunity to get Feedback on your progress
• and everything in between!

If you are new to the IELTS Exam, or you have been preparing for a while, if you are overloaded with so much advice that you have no clear plan on putting all of the pieces together into a successful preparation strategy, these courses are for you.

I created My Exam IELTS Courses and Membership to save months of headache, frustration, time and money, learning and figuring out the basic foundations and knowledge of the IELTS Exam so you quickly make progress and move onto the next step in your career or life plan.

My Exam IELTS Courses and Membership is just $38 for a limited time and includes all the modules I have currently completed. This covers ALL the important stuff you probably could learn the hard way but should learn My Way.

Buy Task 1 or Task 2 for $19 each or get a discounted bundle for $38 with additional Videos and E Books to help where you are struggling in the IELTS Test.

I am so excited to finally share with you my latest IELTS Training course – My Exam IELTS Courses with a ‘Membership Programme’ and ask you for a little favour!

IELTS Task 1 Lessons, Activities and Tasks

Introduction to Task 1 Writing Assessment What is a Task 1 Task What should you know about Task 1 Writing Reading a Task 1 Question and Examining the Data Writing an Effective, Paraphrased Introduction Selecting Information for a Concise and Effective Summary Identifying the Key Feature and Changes Using Data to Write the Description Selecting Prepositions to Accuratly Explain Data Using Articles and Quantifiers for Data Accuracy The language of Comparison  Why Tense is Important  Noticing and Reporting Changes to a Map or Plan Understanding a Process Effectively Describing a Cycle Using the Present Perfect Tense Appropriately  Dealing with Multiple Charts and Information Task 1 Sample Reports for Developing Structure and Strategy Final Review and Self-Assessment

IELTS Task 2 Lessons, Activities and Tasks

Introduction to Task 2 Writing Assessment What is Task 2 Writing What should you know about Task 2 Writing Identifying Task 2 Academic Tasks Selecting and Using an Appropriate Academic Structure Generating and Using Relevant Ideas and Opinions Planning and Structuring an Appropriate Response Writing an Effective IELTS Introduction Linking Sentences and Ideas Constructing a Convincing Line of Argument Using Appropriate Complex Sentence for Higher Band Scores Persuading the Examiner with your Conclusion The final points to remember in the IELTS Test Task 2 Sample Essays for Developing Language and Ideas Final Review and Self-Assessment

Membership Lessons, Activities and Tasks

Bonus Materials All of the above plus Opportunities for Personal Feedback on your IELTS Writing Plus Much More……

My IELTS Courses and Membership are designed for newbies to the IELTS exam world, as well as those aiming for 7 or 8………. however it may not apply to you at the moment (although there are golden nuggets for all levels and I am confident anyone can learn and implement something from it!) so I would LOVE, LOVE, LOVE for you to comment on, and share this post I am linking to: https://www.facebook.com with anyone who may benefit from it or in any group you think appropriate.

If you know someone who is starting out and is overwhelmed by the IELTS Exam- then this is for them!

Here’s to your IELTS preparation success,

Jonathan

 

 

Introducing Complex Sentences for IELTS.

Good IELTS Teachers direct their Students

Good IELTS teachers understand and refer students to the IELTS band scores to demonstrate areas where a student’s writing needs improvement.

“A problem often seen in student writing is over complicated writing with errors in grammar and inappropriate word choices.“

This is because students may have listened to their teacher’s advice and assumed that complicated writing will produce a higher band score, or they may not understand what a complex sentence is.

This can lead to a poor score and have an overall negative effect on your writing.

This post will look at:

• what ‘complex’ sentences are
• how to form complex sentences
• what ‘complex’ sentences you need in a paragraph
• how to jump from just a plan to a finished essay
  

A good teacher will explain what an examiner expects to see when marking your essay.

Referring to the examiner’s band descriptors in order to get a Band 6 for grammar a student needs to:

• Use a mix of simple and complex sentences.

For Band 7 they should:

• Use a variety of complex structures.

and for Band 8:

• Use a wide range of complex structures..the majority of sentences are error free.

As you can see complex sentences are a requirement in your writing, but not all sentences need to be complex.

A good Band 8 answer will use a mixture of both simple and complex sentences accurately, so the key to success is to know when to use and use them well.

Understanding what a complex sentence is?

Students often interpret that complex means a long sentence, or a complicated sentence or even one that looks impressive because it uses learnt phrases.

I have seen resources on the internet that encourage this common misconception that suggest using such phrases.

I have also seen the results: students writing very long and grammatically weak sentences that have to be reread to be understandable.

Use reliable IELTS websites, like this one, so you get good advice and avoid wasting your time.

Complex Writing 

Let’s look at a section of student writing and see what they do right and wrong.

Here’s where a student got their ideas from for the following piece of writing.

and this is there writing…..

‘In the modern world, plastic is one of the most popular topics causing many environmental difficulties and tough challenges arising from its serious consequences.’

This is a typical introduction sentence from an essay that’s trying to be too ‘complex’.

The student doesn’t lack ideas, but has interpreted ‘complex’ as a number of simple ideas in one paragraph.

The result causes many problems that relate to IELTS band descriptors.

Unfortunately, the writing

• doesn’t address the task
• lacks coherence
• lacks cohesion
• and errors cause difficulty for the reader

This also means the sentence is clumsy, the grammar is not controlled and this affects the meaning.

When meaning is affected, it becomes difficult to understand.

The truth is ‘complex’ sentences needn’t be complex; they are simply two or more clauses. 

Joining clauses in a logical way makes an essay more coherent, cohesive and easier to read.

KEY Fact – Clause

• A clause is a group of words built around a verb.

We place them together to form sentences, like this: ‘I’m studying IELTS.’

Let’s look at the first example again.

‘In the modern world, plastic is one of the most popular topics causing many environmental difficulties and tough challenges arising from its serious consequences.’

In the sentence above there are four simple ideas that we can put into simple sentences:

1. Plastic is a popular topic these days.
2. Plastic causes environmental problems.
3. There are tough challenges associated with plastic.
4. Plastic has very serious consequences.

Written like this, the ideas are very clear and easier to understand.

KEY fact – Simple sentence

• A simple sentence communicates one idea

One thing (usually) happens in a simple sentence

I’m studying IELTS at night school.

I’ve taken the IELTS test before.

Simple sentences are very clear so they are often used for giving instructions.

In addition, they feel safe, simple, reassuring and straightforward. 

That’s one reason you find them used in children’s books!

IELTS from Simple sentences and Simple ideas to…?

I like to think that simple sentences are the ‘nuts‘ and ‘bolts‘ of an essay.

Let’s put those sentences about plastic into a paragraph.

Plastic is a popular topic these days. Plastic causes enviromental problems. There are tough challenges associated with plastic. Plastic has very serious consequences.

If you write your IELTS essay like this, you’ll get Band 5 or 6 because these are only simple sentences.

In order to improve your band you need to develop your writing further, like this:

Plastic has become a highly discussed topic as people become aware of the environmental problems when using this material. Thee are difficult challenges associated with the use of plastic which can have serious consequences for the environment.

While this example may look complicated and the grammar may have changed, essentially the original ideas remain the same.

It’s also clear and easy to read.

When should I use complex sentences?

As a rule, you can use simple sentences when making the main point.

This is usually at the beginning of a paragraph.

Then use complex sentences when developing the main ideas.

This can be an explanation or supporting example for the original main point. 

IELTS Question

Some people prefer to save money. Others prefer to spend money on things they will enjoy. What is the best approach towards money?

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Student Response

In some cultures and traditions, saving money is highly valued by its citizens. Both governments and parents encourage young people to follow a pattern where money is saved and invested in the long term and where value is placed on the importance of planning for the future and for security. In many cases, this planning is related to providing a family house, education for future children and security for the country.

The first sentence is the ‘topic sentence’ and makes the main point.

It is therefore acceptable for this to be a simple sentence.

The second sentence gives an example of the main point and uses the word ‘and’ to link two simple sentences together to make one COMPOUND sentence.

Saving money is valued – the idea

Money is saved and invested and value is placed on future planning and security.

The simple ideas are joined and therefore satisfies some of the marking criteria.

Key facts – Compound sentences

• Compound sentences communicate more than one idea.  A compound sentence consists of two or more simple sentences which are linked by the words such as, and or but.

1. This compound sentence contains two clauses:

I’m studying IELTS at night school and I’m making great progress.

clause 1 / linking word / clause 2

2. This compound sentence contains three clauses:

I’m studying IELTS at night school and I’m making great progress but it’s very time consuming.

clause 1 / linking word / clause 2 / Linking word  / clause 3

So how do I make a complex sentence?

A good way of thinking about complex sentences is like this;

A complex sentence is one sentence that expresses a number of ideas. 

or

A complex sentence is a number of clauses that express a number of ideas.

Examples

Governments and parents encourage their young (to do something) because there is a value placed on planning for the future and in security.

Money is saved and invested so that a family house or a child’s education can be provided.

Value is placed on future planning and security as a way of providing housing and eductaion for the younger generation.

Key facts – Complex sentences

• Remember, complex sentences communicate more than one idea.

A complex sentence may consist of several clauses.

At least one of them will be the main clauses, which gives more information about what is happening, e.g:

I’m studying IELTS at night school which is very time consuming but I’m making great progress.

Another clause may be a subordiante clause.

Subordinate clause

I’m studying IELTS at night school which is very time consuming but I’m making great progress.

The subordinate clause is the clause which adds another idea to the sentence, but which could not make sense alone.

Subordinate clauses often begin with the following words:

Like these examples;

• I’m taking IELTS so I can study abroad.
• I’m studying IELTS although it’s time consuming.
• I’m going to take IELTS because I need a working visa.

Advance Complex Sentences Using Clauses

Now let’s look at how to produce complex sentences and at some real IELTS examples.

Using a Subordinate Clause

Example

People should recycle plastic because it reduces some of the environmental problems.

As you saw above, complex sentences are made by connecting a subordinate clause with a main clause using words like as, because, so, while, until, even though, although, when or if.

Subordinate clauses can describe nouns and pronouns, describe verbs or adverbs, and adjectives and can be the subject or object of another clause.

IELTS examples

Recycling plastic reduces some environmental problems so companies should be encouraged to recycle as much as possible.

Although most plastic can be recycled, much of it is dropped as litter in streets and rivers.

While the use of plastic has some downsides, it is an extremely useful product in the food industry.

Using Relative Clauses

Example

The money, which is saved by poor families, can be invested in improving their farming equipment.

Relative clauses can provide additional information about a person, place, or thing.

This aids progression and makes the writing more coherent.

You can do this by using relative pronouns like who, which or that.

Example

Saving money can provide security for the future. Saving is encouraged by governments and parents

Saving money, which is encouraged by governments and parents, can provide security for the future.

Money is saved. Money can be used for a child’s education.

The money that is saved can be used to pay for a child’s education.

IELTS Examples

People who save are more likely to provide for their children’s education.

The availability of funds, which have been saved rather than borrowed, can relieve the pressure when faced with a large bill.

Future security that can be provided by savings should be encouraged.

Another way of using complex sentences is by using conditional sentences.

• Conditional Clauses

Example

If the cost of healthier options to junk food remains high, people will not buy it

These types of clause are very useful to speculate about past, present or future situations which is something that you often need to do in Task 2 IELTS.

These clauses describe an action in the main clause that can only take place if a certain condition is met.

Example

‘Increasing taxes usually raises prices and lowers consumption. If higher taxes for plastic use were introduced, then supermarkets would pass on these prices to consumers and this would lead to people being less able to afford the fresh food that’s typically wrapped in non-recyclable plastic. If the cost of healthier food becomes expensive for most people, they will less likely buy it and turn to less healthier processed foods that are high in fat, sugar, or salt.’

Zero Conditional

These describe information that is true or facts. Often if or when introduces the condition.

Example

Nowadays when we travel long distances, we usually use air travel.

If taxes are increased, it usually raises consumer prices and lowers consumption.

When public transport costs are lowered, passenger numbers increase and car journeys often decrease.

1st Conditional

These describe the present or a future condition.

Example

If the country’s population increases dramatically, more hospitals and schools will be needed.

If cases of obesity increase, more food education in school will be required.

2nd Conditional

These describe impossibility in the future or something that is highly unlikely to happen.

Example

If tobacco products were banned tomorrow, smoking related diseases would decrease dramatically.

Cases of alcohol related diseases would decrease dramatically, if the consumer cost of alcohol was raised.

3rd Conditional

These describe past actions when we wish something hadn’t happened or when we wish the situation was different to now.

Example

If governments had invested more in electric car technology in the 1890s, society might not be so dependant on oil.

If you needed to study conditionals more, the British Council  had a website where you could test yourself. 

Final Tips on Complex Sentences for IELTS

I hope you see that complex sentences required for a higher band score don’t need to be long and complicated.

• The most important thing is to understand and be able to use these grammar structures well
• This requires some practice
• Don’t memorise lots of structures from the internet and use them in essays
• Not understanding how sentences work will produce inaccurate or inappropriate sentences

This leads to unnatural and incoherent sentences and easy to notice memorised language which is always penalised by examiners.

Remember that your sentences need to also be error free for BAND 8 and above, so it is better to use structures you are confident in using.

Tip 1

Plan, start simple and build up

Tip 2

When practicing IELTS writing questions consider your ideas in simple sentences, then link them logically into compound and complex sentences.

With enough practice your writing will show improvements and it will become easier.

Further Resources

Using used to describe past contrast/habit action. In the past people used to …

Using the Passive

What you need to know about Complex Sentences – Further Practice

If you’re still unsure about your sentences, try this practice exercise.

It will help with your IELTS reading too.

Exercise 1

Look at the following examples of complex sentences.  See if you can pick out which part is the main clause and which is the subordinate clause.

Exercise 2

Looking at clauses in texts

It’s useful to be able to spot the different types of sentences on their own to understand

how they work in longer texts.

Exercise 2

Look at this extract from my favourite recipe for vegetable curry.  Look at the kinds of points you might make about the sentence and clause structure

Now add the whole spices. 

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cardamom pods have coloured a little and then add the ground and fresh spices. 

Cook until the fresh spices begin to crack and their fragrance starts to rise, but make sure they do not burn. 

After cooking for 3 minutes, return the par boiled vegetables to the pan.

In the IELTS test, it is useful to be able to spot language features like this.

It will aid both your reading and writing.

Key to practice

Now add the whole spices. Simple sentence – One Clause

Cook for 2 to 3 minutes or until the cardamom pods have coloured a little and then add the ground and fresh spices. Compound sentence –  Two Clauses Conjunction ‘and’

Cook until the fresh spices begin to crack and their fragrance starts to rise, but make sure they do not burn. Compound sentence –  Three Clauses Conjunctions ‘and’ ‘but’

After cooking for 3 minutes, return the par boiled vegetables to the pan. Complex Sentences – Two Clauses Separate Subject/Verb

Finally, you can review a workexample worksheet that I use with advanced IELTS and English for Academic Purposes students who are already at university. 

It helps show how sentences and cohesion are developed in complex sentences.

Sentences for Cohesion

Sentence structure for IELTS and EAP Ielts-Jonathan

Paragraphs for Cohesion

Paragraph structure for IELTS and EAP Ielts-jonathan

Have any of you heard any of the following rumours about IELTS?

 

I’m Jonathan. I get so many questions about incorrect IELTS rumours and random information, I thought I would put some of the most common ideas on-line and on the record. As far as I am concerned, the quicker these ideas are laid to rest, the better. 🙂

 

So, this post is a reminder that you shouldn’t always believe what you hear!

Myth 1: You have to use British English in the IELTS speaking test.

False!

IELTS is an International English Language Test which uses a variety of native speaker accents in its recordings and does not favour any particular accent in the speaking test. To get a high score for Pronunciation, however, your speech must be easily understood throughout the test and your native accent should only have a minimal effect on intelligibility. As English becomes even more a world language of business and education, regional and international accents are becoming less pronounced.

The most significant effects on pronunciation are your first language, so it’s important to identify the characteristics of these.  Ironing out these non-standard pronunciation features will always improve your score.

Myth 2: The IDP IELTS is easier than the British Council IELTS.

False!

There is no difference between these two IELTS names, they are merely companies that operate in the designated territorial area. The tests are all written by language assessment experts in the UK at the University of Cambridge and then sent on to test centres to use around the world. The examiners are all trained in the same way, to the same standards and the marking schemes are also identical. You can find out more about the high levels of quality control and fairness surrounding IELTS here.

Myth 3: If I write more words in the writing test, I will get a higher Band Score.

False!

You won’t score a higher mark just by writing to or above the word count.  In fact, by writing too much, you are likely to make more mistakes and your main ideas may lose clarity and focus so it’s better to stick to the word limit or just go over by 10-20%. I recommend writing around 180 words for Task 1 and approximately 280 words for Task 2.

My advice on preparing a draft for writing a Task 2 or Task 2 is to look for the simplest ideas you can see or think of. You are more likely to write a coherent answer with fewer errors if you choose the simpler ideas or information. Aiming to write much more that the recommended amount will lead to more mistakes and annoy the examiner.

Myth 4: Every IELTS examiner grades differently.

False!

Examiners are all trained and monitored in exactly the same way and use the same scoring criteria and regularly receive monitoring and retraining. The speaking tests are also recorded, and the recordings are regularly used by senior markers to evaluate the performance of all examiners. The recordings can also be used if you are not satisfied with your speaking score and wish to have your test remarked.

Myth 5: I can find my IELTS speaking questions on-line, so I should memorise these.

False!

Yes, some people upload the questions they were asked after their test, but there are many different sets of questions that an examiner can use so it is extremely unlikely that you will get exactly the same ones. It is a good idea, however, to familiarise yourself with as many different types of questions as possible on a range of different topics so that you are well prepared before your test.

Myth 6: An IELTS test score is valid for life.

False!

Your IELTS score is only valid for a period of 2 years. So, if you took the test in 2018 but now need to show that you have the required band score in 2021, your previous score will not count and unfortunately you will have to retake the test.

Myth 7: IELTS band 9 is only for native speakers.

False!

Even some native speakers do not get band 9. You need to be able to use the language naturally and accurately with a full range of grammatical structures. Native speakers often receive a low score band in fluency, vocabulary and occasionally pronunciation. Too often, a lack of awareness around the IELTS test is the problem.

A typical Band 9 candidate has normally lived in an English-speaking country for many years but that’s not to say it’s impossible for those who haven’t.

Myth 8: Anything below band 6 is a fail.

False!

There is no pass or fail in the IELTS test. You get the band score that reflects your language level. What does your language level mean? Well, IELTS is strictly aligned to the Common European Framework of Reference for languages. The CEFR is a great way to assess your capabilities in language use which is useful for work and study applications.  In reality though, your IELTS band score is a combination of the CEFR, and also your familiarity and preparedness with IELTS test format.

So, there is no fail but only what level is accepted by the institution you want to study or work with.

You can get a better understanding of levels and exam equivalents here.

Myth 9: IELTS papers which are re-marked are never upgraded by a full band score.

False!

They can be. It is unlikely to get your reading or listening scores upgraded by more than 0.5 since these are assessed objectively and the difference between two markers is only likely to be very marginal. However, there is an element of subjectivity in marking writing and speaking tests, despite the rigorous testing that examiners undergo. Therefore, if you strongly believe that your score should have been higher, it could be worth asking for a review, but it is a good idea to get advice from an IELTS expert first.

By the way, there is a fee, but the good news is, this is refunded if the band ratings change.

Myth 10: Using complex sentences in IELTS writing always get a higher mark.

False!

There are literally hundreds of videos and posts that explain to students what complex sentences are and how they are important to gaining a higher score. Many claim that simply using complex sentences automatically increases a band score rating in speaking or writing. This is a really common and misleading piece of advice that can result in low scoring writing and speaking!

While the use of complex sentences IS a rating feature at Band 5, grammar ratings at Band 6 or 7 are related to accuracy and flexibility. Put simply, this means how well and appropriately (naturally) you are able to connect ideas grammatically together.  It is a good idea to understand the definitions of complex sentences, but you would then need to study and practice sufficiently to be an effective user.

Too often candidates use higher level grammar that is inaccurate and inappropriate, so try to keep ideas simple and the rest should follow!

Myth 11: Taking the IELTS exam in some countries is easier than others, so find an easy test centre!

False!

If it appears, from rumours or your experience, that taking the IELTS in some countries or even at some test centres is easier than others, let me tell you that from my own personal experience this is not correct. Having worked in venues across the UK, Europe and China, I can tell you that examiner standards are monitored and standardised to ensure the IELTS is a fair test for the candidate.

It certainly isn’t about giving low scores, so test centres get more students retaking the test, or giving favours to certain individuals or nationalities because reading, listening are marked objectively from a score card and writing is monitored and marked centrally.

Having said that, what may be true is that some examiners have certain expectations about the level of students they will test. Working as an examiner in areas where English is less widely used is more demanding than working in countries where English is widely used, such as Malaysia, or in the capitals of countries where there are more English users and this may make examiners appear more friendly. However, I don’t think this justifies the investment or the time. 

Myth 12: You have to have a teacher to pass the IELTS exam.

False!

It really is quite possible to learn all you need to know about the exam, how to prepare and what to practice just from online materials and videos. However, as far as I am concerned, so much time is wasted in looking for videos and tips, that the real focus of exam preparation gets put to one side. Let’s face it, preparing for an exam is not everyone’s ‘cup of tea’ and that’s why so many students end up following poor advice. I see native speakers stumble because they don’t seek advice, and students making the same errors and mistakes in both language and the test because they don’t seek feedback. 

If you have a teacher, ask them what they think are your weaknesses, and don’t just accept token expressions like ‘improve your vocabulary’ or ‘grammar’- any decent teacher is able to give you specific examples on language and preparation areas. If they don’t or can’t, then find a decent teacher or coach.

 

Myth 13: The IELTS typed computer-based test is easier than the pen or pencil written test.

False!

In 2021, the majority of IELTS test takers will be familiar with technology whether it’s their phone, laptop or more specialised applications. Let’s face it, apps are part of our daily life and cannot be avoided. We use apps because they make something easier, more convenient or simplify the process of doing something and so many people assume that the computer-based test offers likewise advantages and it does. 

As far as I can see, the main advantage of the IELTS ‘CBT‘ is to those who are familiar with touch typing or whose handwriting is not the best.

The CBT doesn’t correct your spellings or your grammar, like Microsoft Word or Grammarly does, so it’s much easier to make mistakes and leave them uncorrected. If your handwriting is not so great, you might argue the CBT is a better option as the examiner (a real person still reads your answer) will easily be able to see your ideas, and there are no problems about the pen being too faint. On the other hand, there’s no way to disguise a bad spelling with bad handwriting either!

Myth 14: The IELTS Indicator test is accepted by work and study institutions as an alternative to the regular IELTS test.

False!

The Indicator test was made available during Covid 19 so test takers could practice and assess their current language level. The test conditions were never to the high standard of the IELTS test, and never could be. Some people have claimed that the results of an Indicator test reliably display the language level of the candidate, but there are so many factors that mean it is open to abuse and fraud. 

It is true that there is a list of institutions that claim to accept the Indicator test as acceptance on to their study programmes. That might be a good option for you now but you need to know that there are many conditions attached which means you will have to do other language tests that meet the conditions of the country’s visa.

Even if you get a high Indicator score, you may have to take the IELTS anyway before you can start your degree or Masters.

Never reply to messages or posts that promise a high Indicator score or ‘real’ IELTS certificates!

Myth 15: The more you take the IELTS test, the luckier and better you will be.

False!

Like gambling, the more you do something, the better it can get, or the opposite, the worse! The theory that the more you do something, the more you improve is certainly true. Take playing the guitar or using your phone to take pictures. You can hear and see the results. If you’re not happy with the results you can do something to make improvements like mastering the E Chord or changing the IOS settings on the phone. Once you have taken the IELTS test, the only feedback you get is the result. Candidates who take the test again and again are often just practicing the same mistakes without any feedback and without any improvements.

Yes, there may be some improvement, but it will be minimal and very expensive!

My advice join a reliable Facebook group or better still, find yourself a decent teacher!