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Jargon Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

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Updated on Jul 02, 2024, 11:57

 Welcome to the IELTS Reading Practice Test, which focuses on terminology! Specialised languages, known as jargon, are commonly used in different sectors and industries in today's interconnected world. The use of jargon plays an important role in facilitating communication between professionals, from medicine to technology, but it can also be a barrier to understanding for those outside the field.
 

In this practice test, we will examine the concept of jargon, its impact on communication, and strategies for effectively using a specific language. Join us as we explore the world of jargon and its significance in different contexts.

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1. Jargon Reading Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 13 based on the Reading Passage below.

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2. Jargon Reading Questions & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Jargon.

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1.

Jargon Reading Passage

The general Instructions for IELTS Reading are as follows:

  • You should read the instructions for each question carefully and answer according to them.
  • The reading passages will increase in difficulty as you progress through the test.
  • You should manage your time carefully to ensure enough time to answer all the questions.
  • You cannot bring any electronic devices, including mobile phones, into the test room.
  • You are advised to read the passages and questions thoroughly before answering them.
  •  

     

     

     

    Jargon Reading Passage 

     

     

    A. Jargon is a loaded word. One dictionary defines it, neatly and neutrally, as ‘the technical vocabulary or idiom of a special activity or group’, but this sense is almost completely overshadowed by another: ‘obscure and often pretentious language marked by a roundabout way of expression and use of long words’. For most people, it is this second sense which is at the front of their minds when they think about jargon. Jargon is said to be a bad use of language, something to be avoided at all costs. No one ever describes it in positive terms (‘that was a delightful piece of rousing jargon’). Nor does one usually admit to using it oneself; the myth is that jargon is something only other people employed.
     

    B. The reality, however, is that everyone uses jargon. It is an essential part of the network of occupations and pursuits that make up society. All jobs present an element of jargon, which workers learn as they develop their expertise. All hobbies require mastery of a jargon. Each society grouping has its jargon. The phenomenon turns out to be universal – and valuable. It is the jargon element which, in a job, can promote economy and precision of expression and thus help make life easier for the worker. It is also the chief linguistic element that shows professional awareness (‘know-how’) and social togetherness (‘shop-talk’).
     

    C. When we have learned to command it, jargon is something we readily take pleasure in, whether the subject area is motorcycles, knitting, cricket, baseball or computers. It can add pace, variety and humour to speech – as when, with an important event approaching, we might slip into NASA-speak, and talk about the countdown, all systems go, and lift-off. We enjoy the mutual showing-off which stems from a fluent use of terminology, and we enjoy the in-jokes which shared linguistic experience permits. Moreover, we are jealous of this knowledge. We are quick to demean anyone who tries to be part of our group without being prepared to take on its jargon.
     

    D. If Jargon is so essential a part of our lives, why then has it had such a bad press? The most important reason stems from the way jargon can exclude as well as include. We may not be too concerned if we find ourselves faced with an impenetrable wall of jargon when the subject matter has little-perceived relevance to our everyday lives, as in the case of hydrology say, or linguistics. But when the subject matter is one where we feel implicated and think we have a right to know, and the speaker uses words which make it hard for us to understand, then we start to complain, and if we suspect that the obfuscation is deliberate policy, we unreservedly condemn, labelling it gobbledegook and calling down public derision upon it.
     

    E. No area is exempt, but the fields of advertising, politics and defence have been especially criticized in recent years by the various campaigns for Plain English. In these domains, the extent to which people are prepared to use jargon to hide realities is a ready source of amusement, disbelief and horror. A lie is a lie, which can be only temporarily hidden by calling it an ‘inoperative statement’ or ‘an instance of plausible deniability’. Nor can a nuclear plant explosion be suppressed for long behind such phrases as ‘energetic disassembly’, ‘abnormal evolution’ or, ‘plant transient’.

     

    F. While condemning unnecessary or obscuring jargon in others, we should not forget to look out for it in ourselves. It is so easy to ‘slip into’ jargon, without realising that our own listeners/readers do not understand. It is also temptingly easy to slip some jargon into our expression, to ensure that others do not understand. And it is just as easy to begin using jargon which we ourselves do not understand. The motivation to do such apparently perverse things is not difficult to grasp. People like to be ‘in’, to be part of an intellectual or technical elite; and the use of jargon, whether understood or not, is a badge of membership. Jargon, also, can provide a lazy way into a group or an easy way of hiding uncertainties and inadequacies: when terminology slips plausibly from the tongue, it is not essential for the brain to keep up. Indeed some people have developed this skill to professional levels. And certainly, faced with a telling or awkward question, and the need to say something acceptable in public, slipping into jargon becomes a simple way out, and can soon become a bad habit.

    2.

    Jargon Reading Questions & Answers

    Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Jargon.

    Questions and Answers 1-6
    • Reading Passage 1 has six paragraphs, A–F.
    • Choose the correct heading for each paragraph from the list of headings below.
    • Write the correct number i–ix in boxes 1–6 on your answer sheet.

     

    List of Headings
     

    i. The benefits of simple language

    ii. A necessary tool

    iii. A lasting way of concealing disasters

    iv. The worst offenders

    v. A deceptively attractive option

    vi. Differing interpretations

    vii. Publicizing new word

    viii. Feeling shut out

    ix. Playing with words
     

    1. Paragraph A
    2. Paragraph B
    3. Paragraph C
    4. Paragraph D
    5. Paragraph E
    6. Paragraph F

     

    Jargon Reading Answers with Explanations (1-6)

     

    Type of question: Matching Heading  

     

    These questions require you to match a paragraph with a heading that most accurately summarises it. The main intention behind this task is to check how well you can understand and recognise the subject of discussion in each paragraph.
     

    How to best answer the questions
     

    • Read through the passage and mentally note the ongoing discussion in each paragraph. 
    • Read the set of headings carefully, paying special attention to the keywords. 
    • You can try using the process of elimination for each question and eliminate headings that absolutely cannot match the given paragraph.
    • Review the headings and paragraphs and confirm your answers.

     

    1. vi

     

    Reference

    From paragraph A: “Jargon is a loaded word…….one usually admit to using it oneself; the myth is that jargon is something only other people employed.”

     

    Explanation

    Jargon has different connotations. It is often criticised for being obscure and pretentious, but it is essential to our lives. It promotes economy and precision of expression, shows professional awareness and social togetherness, and adds pace, variety, and humour to communication. However, jargon can also exclude people, making it hard for them to understand the subject. We must be mindful of using it and balance using it effectively, not alienating others.

     

    2. ii

     

    Reference

    From paragraph B: “The reality, however, is that everyone uses jargon………and social togetherness (‘shop-talk’).”
     

    Explanation

    Jargon is a powerful tool in various aspects of our lives. It promotes efficiency and precision in communication, making life easier for workers. Jargon demonstrates professional awareness and social togetherness, signalling that you belong to an intellectual or technical elite. However, it can also exclude people, making it hard for them to understand the subject. Therefore, balancing using jargon effectively and not alienating others is essential. By harnessing the power of jargon, we can communicate more effectively and build stronger professional and social relationships.

     

    3. ix

     

    Reference

    From paragraph C: “When we have learned to command it, jargon……..demean anyone who tries to be part of our group without being prepared to take on its jargon.”
     

    Explanation

    Jargon can be applied to any subject, making communication more engaging and memorable. It allows us to express ourselves uniquely and excitingly, capturing the attention of our listeners and readers. Jargon adds excitement to important events, generating interest and enthusiasm. By utilising jargon effectively, we can provide a unique and exciting experience.

     

    4. viii

     

    Reference

    From paragraph D: “If Jargon is so essential a part of our lives,..........labelling it gobbledegook and calling down public derision upon it.”
     

    Explanation

    Jargon has a bad reputation because it can exclude people from understanding important subjects. Therefore, it is essential to use it responsibly, ensuring inclusivity. It should be used to promote understanding, not to create barriers. As communicators, we must be mindful of our audience and use jargon to create meaningful connections. By using jargon responsibly, we can build stronger professional and social relationships.

     

    5. vi

     

    Reference

    From paragraph E: “No area is exempt, but the fields of advertising,.........explosion be suppressed for long behind such phrases as ‘energetic disassembly’, ‘abnormal evolution’ or, ‘plant transient’.”
     

    Explanation

    Paragraph E highlights that certain fields, such as advertising, politics, and defence, have been criticised for the excessive use of jargon. Jargon is used to hide realities, a source of amusement, disbelief, and horror. It's only a temporary solution and cannot suppress the truth. In summary, individuals or groups who use jargon excessively or in a particularly annoying way have been criticised in specific fields.
     

    6. v

     

    Reference

    From paragraph F: “While condemning unnecessary or obscuring jargon in others,........slipping into jargon becomes a simple way out, and can soon become a bad habit.”
     

    Explanation

    Paragraph F emphasises the importance of self-reflection when using jargon. It's easy to slip into jargon without realising that our audience may not understand it. Jargon can provide a lazy way into a group or an easy way of hiding uncertainties and inadequacies. However, using jargon can become a bad habit and negative impact. We should be mindful of using jargon and its potential impact on our audience.

    Questions and Answers 7-12
    • Complete the summary using the list of words A-L below.
    • Write the correct letter A-L in boxes 7–12 on your answer sheet.

     

    The Up Side of Jargon
     

    Jargon plays a useful part in many aspects of life including leisure. For example, when people take up pastimes they need to develop a good 7……………………………of the relevant jargon. During the discussion of these or other areas of interest, the conversation can become more exciting and an element of 8……………………….can be introduced by the use of shared jargon. Jargon is particularly helpful in the workplace. It leads to more 9……………………….in the way colleagues communicate during work hours. Taking part in 10……………………….during moments of relaxation can also help them to bond better. It is interesting that members of a group, whether social or professional, often demonstrate a certain 11……………………….. towards the particular linguistic characteristics of their subject area and tend to regard new people who do not wish to learn the jargon with 12…………………..
     

    Jargon Reading Answers with Explanations (7-12)

     

    Type of question: Summary Completion

     

    Under this question type, you will receive a summary paragraph with missing information. You will also be given a set of possible answers. You must select the right word from the given words or phrases. 
     

    How to best answer the questions
     

    • Go through the summary, focusing on the missing information
    • Identify keywords that can help you find answers
    • Use a method of elimination while going through the list of words/phrases 
    • Review and finalise your answers

     

    7. F

     

    Reference

    From paragraph C: “When we have learned to command it, jargon is something we readily take pleasure in, whether the subject area is motorcycles, knitting, cricket, baseball or computers.”
     

    Explanation

    The paragraph suggests that once we become skilled at jargon, we enjoy it, regardless of the topic. Jargon is valuable in various aspects of life, including leisure activities.


     

    8. L

     

    Reference

    From paragraph C: “It can add pace, variety and humour to speech – as when, with an important event approaching, we might slip into NASA-speak, and talk about the countdown, all systems go, and lift-off.”
     

    Explanation

    Jargon plays a vital role in different aspects of life, including leisure, where it can add pace, variety, and humour to speech. Shared jargon can make conversations about specific topics more enjoyable and add a layer of humour.


     

    9. D

     

    Reference

    From paragraph B: “All jobs present an element of jargon, which workers learn as they develop their expertise. All hobbies require mastery of a jargon.”
     

    Explanation

    The lines suggest that jargon is particularly useful in the workplace. It promotes efficiency by streamlining communication among colleagues, helping save time and ensuring clear communication, making things easier for employees.

     

    10. C

     

    Reference

    From paragraph B: “It is the jargon element which, in a job, can promote economy and precision of expression and thus help make life easier for the worker. It is also the chief linguistic element that shows professional awareness (‘know-how’) and social togetherness (‘shop-talk’).”
     

    Explanation

    The lines imply that jargon is the main language element that demonstrates professional awareness ('know-how') and social togetherness, often called 'shop-talk.' Shopping talk, especially during leisure moments, can enhance individual bonding.


     

    11. I

     

    Reference

    From paragraph C: “Moreover, we are jealous of this knowledge. We are quick to demean anyone who tries to be part of our group without being prepared to take on its jargon.”
     

    Explanation

    The lines suggest that the writer's group is possessive of each other and critical of anyone attempting to join their circle without being prepared to take on its jargon. The group enjoys showing off their fluency in terminology and in-jokes, which are permitted by their shared linguistic experience. This indicates a strong attachment to the specific language used in their field.


     

    12. G

     

    Reference

    From paragraph C: “We are quick to demean anyone who tries to be part of our group without being prepared to take on its jargon.”
     

    Explanation

    According to the passage, the writer and his group take pleasure in using their specialised language and enjoy displaying their knowledge of it. They are also possessive of their jargon and are likely to belittle those who try to become part of the group without learning the specific language. In other words, the group may view people unwilling to learn their jargon with disdain.

    Questions and Answers 13
    • Choose the correct letter: A, B, C or D.
    • Write the correct letter in box 13 on your answer sheet.

     

    13. Which of the following statements would the writer agree with?
     

    1. Jargon thoroughly deserves the bad reputation it has gained.
    2. Jargon should not be encouraged except in the workplace.
    3. Jargon should not be used if the intention is to exclude others.
    4. Everyday life would be very much better without jargon.
       

    Jargon Reading Answers with Explanation (13)

     

    Type of question: Multiple choice question

     

    This is the typical MCQ type. You just need to select one answer out of the 4 options.

     

    How to best answer the questions 

     

    • Skim through the questions and identify the keywords
    • Use the elimination method and recognise options that include inaccurate or false information as per the given passage 
    • Match each option with the passage and choose an answer most accurately supported by the information in the passage. 
    • Cross-check your answers and finalise them

     

     

    13. C

     

    Reference

    From paragraph D: “If Jargon is so essential a part of our lives,..........labelling it gobbledegook and calling down public derision upon it.”
     

    Explanation

    As per the passage, the writer wonders why jargon has received negative feedback despite being essential to our lives. The writer highlights that the main reason is the way jargon can include and exclude people. Jargon should not be used to push people away. In other words, the writer believes that jargon should not be used to exclude others.

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    Q. How can I improve my reading speed for the IELTS Reading test?

    Ans. Practice regularly with different reading materials to improve your reading speed for the IELTS Reading test so that you are familiar with different topics and structures. Focus on minimising sub-vocalisation (silent reading in your head) and train your eyes to move smoothly across lines. To find the key information fast, you can use techniques such as skimming and scans to improve your speed while retaining understanding.

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