“As acknowledged by” is a sophisticated phrase frequently appearing in academic texts and IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Mastering its usage will not only broaden your grammatical range but also lend a formal, scholarly tone to your writing, potentially boosting your band score.
Here are some examples of how “as acknowledged by” can be used in IELTS Writing Task 2:
- Example 1: Some argue that space exploration is a waste of resources, while others believe it is crucial for the future of humanity. As acknowledged by leading scientists, the technological advancements stemming from space programs have significant implications for various fields, including medicine and communication.
- Example 2: The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships is a subject of ongoing debate. As acknowledged by psychologists, excessive use of social media platforms can lead to social isolation and a decline in face-to-face interactions.
- Example 3: The role of government in regulating the internet is complex and multifaceted. As acknowledged by legal experts, striking a balance between protecting freedom of speech and preventing online harm is a significant challenge.
In each example, “as acknowledged by” introduces evidence or opinions from authoritative sources, adding weight to the argument presented. This structure is particularly useful for IELTS Writing Task 2, where you’re expected to present well-supported arguments on complex issues.
Understanding “As Acknowledged By”
This phrase signifies that a specific fact, opinion, or finding has been recognized and accepted by a credible authority, such as an expert, a study, or a reputable organization. It adds a layer of credibility to your writing by demonstrating that your claims are supported by external sources.
Frequency in IELTS
While not overly common, “as acknowledged by” and similar phrases like “as noted by” or “as recognized by” appear in higher-scoring IELTS essays. Their strategic use demonstrates a strong command of grammatical structures and vocabulary, contributing to a higher Lexical Resource score.
Structure and Grammatical Insights
As acknowledged by [source], [statement].
Let’s break down the components:
- “As acknowledged by”: This functions as a prepositional phrase introducing the source of the information.
- [source]: This refers to the expert, study, or organization that supports the statement. Be specific. Instead of “scientists,” write “Professor Smith, a renowned physicist…”
- [statement]: This is the fact, opinion, or finding acknowledged by the source.
Applying the Structure for IELTS
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Writing Task 2: Use “as acknowledged by” to introduce expert opinions or research findings that support your arguments. For instance, when discussing the benefits of renewable energy, you might write: “As acknowledged by the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change, transitioning to renewable energy sources is crucial for mitigating climate change.”
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Speaking Part 3: You can adapt this structure for more complex responses. For example, if discussing the challenges of online education, you might say: “Well, as many educational experts have acknowledged, online learning can be quite isolating for some students.”
Crafting Exemplary Sentences and Paragraphs
Here’s how you can effectively integrate “as acknowledged by” into your IELTS writing:
Topic: The increasing reliance on technology in education.
Body Paragraph:
While technology offers numerous benefits to the classroom, its overuse can have detrimental effects. Students may become overly reliant on digital tools, hindering their critical thinking and problem-solving abilities. As acknowledged by educational psychologist Dr. Jane Miller, “Excessive screen time can negatively impact children’s cognitive development, particularly their attention spans and ability to process information deeply.”
In this example, “as acknowledged by” introduces the expert opinion of Dr. Jane Miller, lending credibility to the claim about the potential negative effects of excessive technology use.
The Impact of Technology on Education
Aiming Higher: Advanced Usage and Synonyms
To further demonstrate your language proficiency, consider these variations:
- As widely recognized by…
- As noted by leading researchers in the field…
- As established by the study conducted by…
- It is widely accepted that… (followed by supporting evidence)
- There is a general consensus among experts that…
These alternatives maintain the formality of “as acknowledged by” while offering subtle nuances and showcasing a broader vocabulary.
Common Pitfalls to Avoid
- Vague Sources: Avoid generic terms like “experts” or “studies.” Be specific and cite credible sources whenever possible.
- Informal Language: Keep the tone academic. Avoid contractions or colloquialisms.
- Overuse: Don’t overuse this structure. Vary your language and only use it when appropriate to strengthen your argument.
Conclusion
Mastering sophisticated phrases like “as acknowledged by” can significantly enhance your IELTS writing, showcasing your grasp of academic language and your ability to construct well-supported arguments. By using this phrase strategically and accurately, you can effectively incorporate expert opinions and research findings into your essays, boosting your credibility and potentially achieving a higher band score. Remember to practice incorporating this and similar structures into your writing to consolidate your understanding and refine your language skills.
