This is a real IELTS Reading passage (often found in Cambridge IELTS Practice Tests or similar resources). The passage discusses the historical evolution of the English language, focusing on how it was standardized through dictionaries and grammar books. Below is a high-quality guide including the Question Types , a Summary of the Passage , and the Answer Key with Explanations .
📚 Passage Overview: "Strictly English" Topic: History of the English Language. Main Idea: The passage details the journey of English from a fluid, unregulated language to a standardized one. It focuses on key figures like Robert Lowth (who wrote a grammar book) and Samuel Johnson (who wrote the dictionary). It contrasts the 18th-century desire for "fixing" the language with modern linguistic views that language should be flexible. Key Figures Mentioned:
Robert Lowth: Wrote A Short Introduction to English Grammar (1762). He believed in logic in language and criticized "bad" grammar. Samuel Johnson: Created the famous Dictionary. He eventually realized that trying to "fix" a language permanently is impossible.
📝 Question Types Guide In this specific reading test, you will typically encounter these types of questions. Here is the strategy for each: strictly english ielts reading answers high quality
True / False / Not Given:
True: The statement agrees with the text (synonyms are used). False: The statement contradicts the text (opposite meaning). Not Given: The information is missing or impossible to determine. Tip: Do not use your own general knowledge. Stick strictly to the text.
Summary Completion (Fill in the blanks): This is a real IELTS Reading passage (often
Tip: Identify the part of speech needed (noun, verb, adjective). Scan the text for keywords from the summary. The answers usually come in order.
Matching Features (People to Opinions):
Tip: Scan the text for the names (e.g., Lowth, Johnson). Read the sentences around their names carefully. Look for synonyms of the opinions listed in the questions. 📚 Passage Overview: "
🔑 Answer Key & Explanations (Note: While passage versions can vary slightly, these are the standard answers for the "Strictly English" text found in major practice materials.) Section 1: Summary Completion Typically asks about the history of grammar books. Q: What was Robert Lowth’s approach to grammar?
Answer: He believed English should follow the rules of Latin (or Logic). Explanation: The text mentions Lowth was influenced by Latin grammar structures and felt English should be "logical."