IELTS Reading Section 1: Everyday Reading Practice and Strategies

Welcome to Section 1 of the IELTS Reading Test

Welcome! I’m excited to guide you through Section 1 of the IELTS Reading test. Think of this session like a friendly coaching chat — just you and me focusing on how you can master this section with confidence.

In Section 1 of the General Training Reading Test, you will encounter two or three short texts, or sometimes multiple very short texts. These texts are based on everyday topics you are likely to come across while living in an English-speaking country.

You might see:

• Notices
• Advertisements
• Schedules or Timetables
• Instructions or Guidelines

Your Goal: Identify important, practical information quickly and accurately.

Important Tip: Section 1 usually focuses on simple, real-world tasks. You’re not being tested on academic knowledge here — it’s all about everyday English. So relax, read carefully, and trust your reading skills.

How to Approach Section 1

Here’s a practical game plan:

• Skim the text first to get a general idea of what it’s about.
• Then scan for specific keywords related to the questions.
• Make sure you transfer your answers carefully onto your answer sheet — it’s easy to lose points because of careless transfer!

Section 1 Reading Task

Let’s dive into two real-world examples to practice.

Important Information for Library Volunteers

Thank you for choosing to volunteer at our public library. We appreciate your help in supporting the library’s mission and helping to serve the community. Please read the following guidelines carefully.

Library Hours and Availability
Volunteers are required to work during the library’s open hours. The library operates from Monday to Saturday, from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The library is closed on Sundays and public holidays. Volunteers should commit to a minimum of 2 hours per shift, and shifts are available from 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM. If you need to change your availability, please inform the Volunteer Coordinator as soon as possible.

Health and Safety
Volunteers should ensure their personal safety while in the library. If you have any medical conditions or are taking medication, please inform the library’s Volunteer Coordinator beforehand. The library cannot assume responsibility for any health-related incidents while volunteering. A first-aid kit is available at the front desk in case of minor injuries.

Sign-in and Identification
All volunteers must sign in upon arrival. The sign-in book is located near the library entrance. Please also wear your volunteer ID badge at all times while volunteering. The ID badge must be returned at the end of your shift.

Communication
If you have any questions or concerns during your shift, please communicate with the Volunteer Coordinator. You can contact her via email or by leaving a note in the office. The preferred method for scheduling shifts and communicating with staff is by email.

Library Policies
Volunteers are expected to adhere to the library’s policies, including maintaining a quiet and respectful environment. Smoking is not allowed on the library premises. Please refrain from using your mobile phone during volunteer shifts, unless there is an emergency.

Reading Questions 1–7: True/False/Not Given

Let’s practice with some typical True/False/Not Given questions.

Instructions:
Do the following statements agree with the information given in the text?

• True if the statement agrees with the information
• False if the statement contradicts the information
• Not Given if there is no information on this

• 1. Volunteers are required to work at least 2 hours per shift.
• 2. Volunteers can choose their own working hours.
• 3. The library is closed on Sundays and public holidays.
• 4. Volunteers should inform the Volunteer Coordinator of any health problems.
• 5. The library will provide health insurance for volunteers in case of an accident.
• 6. Volunteers must sign in before starting their shift.
• 7. Volunteers should avoid using mobile phones during their shifts.

Detailed Solutions and Explanations for Questions 1–7

Let’s break these down carefully together:

• • 1. True — The text says volunteers must commit to “a minimum of 2 hours per shift.”
    Why this matters: Pay attention to words like “minimum” and “required.” They indicate obligations — things volunteers must do. This is a perfect match, so the answer is True.

• • 2. False — Volunteers are offered set shifts (9:00 AM to 12:00 PM or 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM). There’s no freedom to pick any hours you want.
    Tip: In questions like these, “choose their own hours” implies total flexibility. Since volunteers must pick from fixed shifts, it’s False.

• • 3. True — The passage clearly states, “The library is closed on Sundays and public holidays.”
    Important: When the passage gives direct information (word-for-word), you can be confident in marking True.

• • 4. True — Volunteers must inform the Volunteer Coordinator about any medical conditions or medications.
    Key strategy: Look for the words “must” or “should” — they show requirements, not just suggestions. Here, informing the Coordinator is mandatory, so this is True.

• • 5. False — The passage says the library “cannot assume responsibility for any health-related incidents.”
    What this tells you: No responsibility = no health insurance provided. The library isn’t covering volunteers, so this is False.

• • 6. True — Volunteers must “sign in upon arrival” — it’s a clear instruction in the passage.
    Reading strategy: When a task is stated plainly like this, it’s a good signal that the answer is True.

• 7. True — Volunteers should “refrain from using their mobile phones unless there is an emergency.”
  Interpretation: “Refrain from” means “avoid.” Unless there’s an emergency, phones shouldn’t be used, so True is correct.

💡 Reading Tips for True/False/Not Given:

• Skim the passage quickly to understand the general idea.
• Scan for keywords from the question — like “volunteer hours,” “health,” “closed days.”
• Be careful about details — words like “must,” “can,” and “should” change the meaning.
• Remember: False means opposite information. Not Given means no information.

Section 1 Reading Task: Urban Gardening Guidelines

Now let’s practice with a second real-world example.

Guidelines for Responsible Urban Gardening
Urban gardening is a rewarding activity that allows individuals to grow their own food, even in small spaces. However, to ensure that gardens are environmentally sustainable and safe, gardeners must follow certain guidelines.

Planning Your Garden
Before starting an urban garden, it is essential to plan the space carefully. Choose a site that receives adequate sunlight and is free from pollution or heavy foot traffic. If you are gardening on a rooftop or balcony, ensure that the space is secure and can support the weight of the plants and containers. Be mindful of local zoning laws and regulations regarding garden structures.

Soil and Watering
To create healthy soil, gardeners should use compost and organic materials. Chemical fertilizers are discouraged because they can harm local ecosystems. Watering should be done early in the morning or late in the evening to minimize water loss due to evaporation. If using a sprinkler system, make sure it’s efficient and only water the plants, not the pavement.

Pest Control
Pesticides should be avoided in urban gardens. Instead, gardeners are encouraged to use natural methods of pest control, such as introducing beneficial insects or using organic sprays. If pest problems persist, it is best to consult with a local gardening expert or cooperative.

Waste Management
All garden waste, including plant trimmings and unused plant materials, should be composted or disposed of responsibly. Do not throw plant material in general trash bins as it can contribute to landfill waste. Gardeners should avoid creating excessive waste through their gardening practices.
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Reading Questions 8–14: Classify Actions

Instructions:
Classify the following behaviours as something that urban gardeners:
A. must do
B. may do
C. must not do
Write the correct letter (A, B, or C) next to the statement.

• 8. Use compost and organic materials to enrich the soil.
• 9. Grow plants on a rooftop without checking its weight capacity.
• 10. Use chemical pesticides to control pests.
• 11. Water plants during midday to save time.
• 12. Compost garden waste to reduce landfill contributions.
• 13. Consult a gardening expert if pest problems arise.
• 14. Avoid using a sprinkler system to save water.

Detailed Solutions and Explanations for Questions 8–14

• • 8. A (must do) — The text says gardeners should use compost and organic materials.
    Why: Healthy soil is essential, and using compost is strongly encouraged as the environmentally responsible choice. So, this is something gardeners must do.

• • 9. C (must not do) — The guidelines emphasize checking that the rooftop can safely support the weight.
    Important: Not checking could lead to accidents or damage, so it’s clearly something you must not do.

• • 10. C (must not do) — The text says pesticides should be avoided.
    Strategy: “Avoid” signals a strong warning — the use of chemical pesticides is harmful and must not be done.

• • 11. C (must not do) — Watering during midday wastes water due to evaporation.
    Key point: To conserve water, watering in the morning or evening is advised. Therefore, midday watering is something you must not do.

• • 12. A (must do) — Composting waste is emphasized as a critical way to reduce landfill contributions.
    Why it matters: This is about environmental responsibility — composting is not optional; it’s necessary, so gardeners must do it.

• • 13. B (may do) — Consulting an expert is suggested but not compulsory.
    Tip: If an action is recommended but not mandatory, it falls under may do.

• 14. B (may do) — Avoiding a sprinkler system is optional — efficiency is encouraged, but no absolute ban is stated.
  Reading skill: If the text suggests something without making it a rule, it’s a may do action.

💡 Strategy Tip for Classification Questions:

• Watch for modals: “must,” “should,” “can” — they show the level of obligation.
• Understand the consequences — if not doing it would cause harm, it’s usually a “must do” or “must not do.”
• If it’s just encouraged but not enforced, it’s usually “may do.”

Reflection Prompt

Now, think about your progress:

• What two reading strategies from today will you use next time you practice?
• How can skimming and scanning make your reading faster and more accurate?

You’re doing a fantastic job! Remember, mastering IELTS Reading is all about practice, strategy, and staying calm. Keep going — you’re well on your way!