What's new on IELTS with Fiona

What is paraphrasing?

Saying the same thing in a different way.

Why does IELTS use paraphrasing for the correct answers?

Because if they use exactly the same words, it would be too easy to get the right answer.

🏺In these Multiple Choice Questions about a Pottery Course, you can see that

• the wrong answers use the exact same words (highlighted in red 🔴 in the video)
• the correct answer is paraphrased (highlighted in yellow 🟡 in the video)

Example:

Q14 What does Heather value most about being a potter?

“As far as I’m concerned, what I love most is the concentration you need to make a good pot. That focus takes you away from the stresses of everyday life. If you’re elderly, it’s also good exercise for hands and wrists and helps with arthritis and of course it’s a fun activity for children because it’s so messy.”

✅ A its calming effect

❌ B its messy nature (good for children)

❌ C i ts physical benefits (good for elderly people)

See also: Listening - reading between the lines