Reading Answers — Strictly English Ielts

The IELTS Reading passage titled " Strictly English " is an excerpt based on Simon Heffer’s book of the same name. It explores the writer’s perspective on the evolution of the English language and the importance of maintaining logical standards in grammar and vocabulary. Answer Key for "Strictly English"

Based on common versions of this IELTS practice test, here are the answers for the typical question sets associated with this passage: Question # Source/Context 1 FALSE

The writer argues English can be codified, not that it is impossible. 2 NOT GIVEN strictly english ielts reading answers

The text doesn't mention if Heffer thinks French is harder than English. 3 TRUE

He suggests learned men from over a century ago set the standards. 4 FALSE The IELTS Reading passage titled " Strictly English

The writer believes grammar has a logical structure, not that it's random. 5 (A) making sense to people outside their group

Some academics avoid clear communication to sound exclusive. 6 Questions 1–5 Do the following statements agree with

2. Key Strategies for Accurate Answers

| Strategy | Explanation | |----------|-------------| | Skim & Scan | Skim for main ideas (2 min), scan for keywords (names, dates, numbers). | | Synonyms First | The answer is rarely word-for-word; find the paraphrase. | | No Outside Knowledge | Answer strictly from the text — even if you know the topic. | | Watch for Qualifiers | Words like some, all, often, never change meaning (critical for T/F/NG). |

Questions 1–5

Do the following statements agree with the views of the writer in the reading passage? Write: YES if the statement agrees with the views of the writer NO if the statement contradicts the views of the writer NOT GIVEN if it is impossible to say what the writer thinks

1. The 'Strictly English' movement was successful in establishing a language academy in the 18th century.
2. Supporters of Strictly English believe that bad grammar can lead to unclear thinking.
3. The rule against splitting infinitives is originally derived from the structure of the English language.
4. The Queen’s English Society prefers vocabulary that is heavily influenced by foreign languages.
5. David Crystal believes that English is currently in a state of decline.

Word-choice and format tips

• Prefer exact wording from the passage to avoid introducing errors.
• Convert numerals into words only if the test specifically accepts written numbers; otherwise follow test instructions.
• Avoid contractions unless the passage uses them and they fit the grammar required.
• When a compound noun is needed, check whether hyphenation is used in the passage; mirror the passage style but use plain English words.
• Capitalization: follow the test’s required format (usually initial capital not required for single-word answers).

Purpose

A focused strategy for answering IELTS Reading questions where responses must be strictly English (no symbols, numbers, or foreign words) and exactly match required formats.