Here are the most common vocabulary relating to the topic ‘Science’. These words are collected from different sources and can be used in both productive sections of IELTS. They can also help you better understand the Reading section of the test.
- research (noun) – a detailed study of a subject, especially in order to discover (new) information or reach a (new) understanding
– They are carrying out some fascinating research on the language of dolphins. - extraterrestrial (adj) – in or coming from a place outside the planet Earth.
– In those rocks may lie the best chance of finding extraterrestrial life.
– Some people believe that governments are concealing evidence of extraterrestrial beings. - gauge (verb) – to calculate an amount, especially by using a measuring device.
– Use a thermometer to gauge the temperature.
– I tried to gauge (= guess) the weight of the box. - artificial (adj) – made by people, often as a copy of something natural.
– Diet drinks contain artificial sweeteners like saccharin.
– Energy is being wasted by using artificial lighting when daylight is adequate. - scholarly (adj) – containing a serious, detailed study of a subject.
– The organization is dedicated to scholarly research on life in the next millennium.
– Fullington discovered 11 new species of land snails and wrote more than 90 scholarly articles and books. - test (verb) – to do something in order to discover if something is safe, works correctly, etc., or if something is present.
– The manufacturers are currently testing the new engine.
– They tested her blood for signs of the infection. - experiment (noun) – a test done in order to learn something or to discover if something works or is true.
– Some people believe that experiments on animals should be banned.
– Scientists are carrying out experiments to test the effectiveness of the new drug. - discover (verb) – to find information, a place, or an object, especially for the first time.
– Scientists have discovered how to predict an earthquake.
– Following a routine check-up, Mrs Mason was discovered to have heart disease. - breakthrough (noun) – an important discovery or event that helps to improve a situation or provide an answer to a problem.
– Scientists are hoping for a breakthrough in the search for a cure for cancer.
– A major breakthrough in negotiations has been achieved. - argument (noun) – a reason or reasons why you support or oppose an idea or suggestion, or the process of explaining these reasons.
– Now that we’ve heard all the arguments for and against the proposal, let’s vote on it.
– Her husband was not convinced by her argument that they needed a bigger house. - substance (noun) – material with particular physical characteristics.
– What sort of substance could withstand those temperatures?
– This substance is so radioactive that it glows in the dark.
