The phrase “As Valued By” often trips up IELTS candidates, leaving them unsure of its meaning and application. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of this phrase, equipping you with the knowledge and tools to use it confidently and accurately in your IELTS exam. We’ll explore its meaning, grammatical structure, and provide practical examples to solidify your understanding.
Let’s start by looking at a few examples of how “as valued by” might appear in an IELTS context:
- Speaking Part 3: “Some people argue that traditional art forms are becoming less relevant in the modern world. However, others believe they are still as valued by society as they ever were. What’s your opinion?”
- Writing Task 2: “The value of a university education should not be measured solely by earning potential, as valued by many employers, but also by its contribution to personal growth and societal advancement.”
- Listening Section 2: “The tour guide explained that the ancient pottery on display, as valued by experts, provided invaluable insights into the civilization’s daily life and rituals.”
In each of these examples, “as valued by” introduces the perspective or criteria used to assess the value of something. It highlights the subjective nature of value, emphasizing that different individuals or groups might hold varying opinions.
Understanding “As Valued By”
Meaning and Usage
“As valued by” is a phrase indicating the worth or significance of something according to a specific person, group, or standard. It emphasizes the subjective nature of value, highlighting that different entities might have different perspectives on what is deemed important.
Let’s break down the phrase:
- “As”: This word functions as a conjunction, drawing a comparison or indicating a manner.
- “Valued”: This is the past participle of the verb “to value,” signifying the worth or importance assigned to something.
- “By”: This preposition highlights the agent or entity responsible for the valuation.
Frequency in IELTS
While “as valued by” itself might not be a high-frequency phrase in the IELTS, understanding its structure and function is crucial. It exemplifies a broader grammatical concept frequently tested in the exam: using participial phrases to add information and convey complex ideas concisely and effectively.
Mastering the Grammar: Structure and Variations
“As valued by” typically appears in a participial phrase modifying a noun or noun phrase. Here’s the basic structure:
[Noun/Noun Phrase] + as valued by + [Agent/Standard]
Let’s examine some variations:
- “As measured by”: This emphasizes a quantitative evaluation based on specific criteria.
- “As perceived by”: This focuses on individual or collective interpretations and understandings.
- “As assessed by”: This implies a formal or systematic evaluation process.
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Applying “As Valued By” in Your IELTS Exam
Writing Task 2
- Example: “While economic indicators, as measured by GDP growth, are important, they fail to capture the overall well-being of a nation, which encompasses factors like social equality and environmental sustainability.”
Analysis: In this example, “as measured by GDP growth” modifies “economic indicators,” highlighting that their value is determined based on this specific metric. This structure allows you to contrast this limited perspective with a broader understanding of national well-being.
Speaking Part 3
- Example: “The internet has revolutionized the way we consume information. News, once primarily as valued by its timeliness and accuracy, is now often judged by its shareability and entertainment value.”
Analysis: Here, “as valued by its timeliness and accuracy” describes the traditional criteria for assessing news value. By juxtaposing this with the modern emphasis on “shareability and entertainment value,” you demonstrate a nuanced understanding of how the internet has reshaped our perception of information.
Achieving a Higher Score: Sophisticated Usage
To achieve a higher band score, consider these strategies:
- Combine with other complex grammatical structures: For example, “Despite its cultural significance, as recognized by UNESCO, the historical site remains underfunded and poorly maintained.”
- Use to present contrasting viewpoints: “The government prioritizes economic growth, as reflected in its recent policies. However, many citizens argue for a greater emphasis on social welfare, as evidenced by the growing popularity of community initiatives.”
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect preposition: Ensure you use “by” after “valued.”
Incorrect: “The painting’s worth, as valued for its historical significance, was substantial.”
Correct: “The painting’s worth, as valued by its historical significance, was substantial.” - Misplaced modifier: Make sure the phrase clearly modifies the intended noun or noun phrase.
Incorrect: “The students presented their research projects, as valued by the professor, with great enthusiasm.”
Correct: “The students presented their research projects, which were highly valued by the professor, with great enthusiasm.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “as valued by” and its variations can significantly enhance your ability to articulate complex ideas and perspectives in the IELTS exam. By understanding its meaning, grammatical structure, and practical applications, you can confidently incorporate this phrase into your writing and speaking, demonstrating a sophisticated grasp of the English language. Remember to practice using it in various contexts, paying close attention to the nuances and potential pitfalls, to ensure your IELTS success.
