In the IELTS Academic Writing Task 1, demonstrating strong Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy is crucial for achieving a high score.

One important aspect of grammatical accuracy is the appropriate use of pluralisation. Pluralisation refers to the formation of plurals, which is essential for accurately conveying quantities and describing multiple objects or entities.

In this article, we will explore the importance of pluralisation in Task 1, accompanied by examples and answers to help you understand and apply this concept effectively.

1. Basic Rules of Pluralisation:

a. Adding -s:

In most cases, you can form the plural of a noun by adding -s to the singular form. Example: The cat (singular) → The cats (plural)

b. Adding -es:

When a noun ends in -s, -x, -z, –ch, or –sh, you generally add -es to form the plural. Example: The box (singular) → The boxes (plural)

c. Irregular Plurals:

Some nouns have irregular plural forms that do not follow the standard rules. These must be memorised. Example: The child (singular) → The children (plural)

2. Pluralizing Countable and Uncountable Nouns:

a. Countable Nouns:

Countable nouns refer to things that can be counted individually. They can be pluralised by adding -s or -es. Example: A book (singular) → Books (plural)

b. Uncountable Nouns:

Uncountable nouns refer to things that cannot be counted individually. They are used in the singular form and do not have a plural form. Example: Water (singular) – No plural form

Example Answer:

Original Sentence:

The student received a high mark in the exam.

Revised Sentence:

The students received high marks in the exam.

In the revised sentence, the noun “student” is pluralised to “students” to accurately describe multiple students receiving high marks.

3. Pluralizing Compound Nouns:

a. Pluralizing Noun + Noun:

In compound nouns, only the main noun is pluralised. Example: The toothbrush (singular) → The toothbrushes (plural)

b. Pluralizing Adjective + Noun:

Both elements are pluralised in compound nouns formed with an adjective and a noun. Example: The blackboard (singular) → The blackboards (plural)

Example Answer:

Original Sentence:

The man bought a toothbrush.

Revised Sentence:

The man bought toothbrushes.

The compound noun “toothbrush” is pluralised in the revised sentence by adding -es to the main noun.

Example Answer:

Original Sentence:

The man bought a toothbrush.

Revised Sentence:

The man bought toothbrushes.

The compound noun “toothbrush” is pluralised in the revised sentence by adding -es to the main noun.

4. Pluralising Nouns in Context:

Consider the context and the meaning you want to convey when pluralising nouns. Pluralize nouns based on the quantity or number being described.

Example:

Original Sentence:

The report shows a significant increase in the sale.

Revised Sentence:

The report shows significant increases in sales.

In the revised sentence, the noun “sale” is pluralised to “sales” to accurately represent the multiple increases mentioned in the report.

In conclusion, understanding and applying appropriate pluralisation in IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 is crucial for achieving a high Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.

By following the basic rules of pluralisation, considering countable and uncountable nouns, pluralising compound nouns correctly, and paying attention to the context, you can effectively convey quantities and accurately describe multiple objects or entities.

With consistent practice and attention to detail, you will excel in Task 1 and achieve success in your IELTS examination.