Introduction
In today’s lesson, I’ll be sharing the top 10 methods for understanding complex sentences in TOEFL iBT Reading. Mastering these strategies is crucial for excelling in the reading section of the TOEFL iBT exam.
1. Identify Key Words
The first method is to identify key words in the sentence. These words often carry the main idea or provide important context. By focusing on them, you can grasp the overall meaning of the sentence more easily.
2. Pay Attention to Signal Words
Signal words like ‘however,’ ‘therefore,’ and ‘although’ indicate the relationship between different parts of a sentence. Understanding these relationships is essential for comprehending complex sentences.
3. Break Down the Sentence
Sometimes, a long sentence can be overwhelming. To tackle this, break it down into smaller chunks. Analyze each part individually, and then piece them together to understand the sentence as a whole.
4. Look for Context Clues
Context clues, such as examples or explanations, can provide valuable information about the meaning of a sentence. They often help in deciphering unfamiliar vocabulary or complex ideas.
5. Analyze Sentence Structure
Understanding the structure of a sentence, such as the subject, verb, and object, can give you insights into its meaning. Pay attention to modifiers and phrases that provide additional details.
6. Consider the Author’s Purpose
Authors often use complex sentences to convey specific ideas or arguments. By considering the author’s purpose, you can better understand the intention behind a sentence and its overall significance.
7. Practice Active Reading
Active reading involves engaging with the text actively. This includes highlighting key points, making notes, and asking questions. Such active involvement enhances comprehension and retention.
8. Use Prior Knowledge
Your prior knowledge about a topic can be a valuable asset in understanding complex sentences. Relate the information in the sentence to what you already know, and it will become more meaningful.
9. Read Regularly
Regular reading, especially of academic texts, can improve your familiarity with complex sentence structures and vocabulary. The more you expose yourself to such sentences, the easier they become to understand.
10. Take Practice Tests
Finally, taking practice tests is an excellent way to apply the strategies you’ve learned. It not only helps in identifying areas of improvement but also familiarizes you with the format and style of TOEFL iBT Reading.