“As shown by” is a powerful phrase that can significantly elevate your IELTS writing, particularly in Task 1 where you’re expected to describe visual data. Used effectively, it strengthens your arguments by clearly linking trends and evidence. This guide will equip you with the knowledge and skills to use “as shown by” and its synonyms confidently.
Let’s consider these examples demonstrating its application across different IELTS sections:
Task 1 Writing:
- Original: The tourism industry experienced significant growth. The chart illustrates this with rising visitor numbers.
- Improved: The tourism industry witnessed remarkable growth, as shown by the chart’s depiction of escalating visitor numbers.
Task 2 Writing:
- Original: Technology has impacted communication. People are now globally connected.
- Improved: Technology has revolutionized communication, as evidenced by the unprecedented global connectivity it affords.
Speaking:
- Original: My hometown has changed a lot; for example, there are new buildings now.
- Improved: My hometown has undergone a significant transformation, as evidenced by the emergence of modern architectural structures.
In each example, “as shown by” and its synonyms create a direct and sophisticated link between the claim and the supporting evidence.
Understanding “As Shown By” and its Significance
“As shown by” acts as a cohesive device, signaling to the examiner that you’re not simply presenting information but actively interpreting and analyzing it. It demonstrates your ability to:
- Present evidence clearly: It directly connects your claims with supporting data.
- Enhance coherence: It binds sentences and ideas together, improving the overall flow.
- Showcase vocabulary range: Using synonyms like “as evidenced by,” “as illustrated by,” or “as demonstrated by” exhibits your lexical resource.
Using “As Shown By” Effectively
Formula:
[Statement of trend or observation] + “,” + “as shown by” + [Supporting data or visual representation]
Breakdown:
- Statement of trend or observation: Begin with a clear statement about the data you’re analyzing.
- Comma: Use a comma after your initial statement.
- “As shown by”: This phrase introduces your evidence.
- Supporting data or visual representation: Reference the specific data point, trend, or feature from the chart, graph, or diagram.
Applying “As Shown By” in IELTS Writing Task 1
Example:
The demand for renewable energy sources experienced a steady increase between 2000 and 2010, as shown by the upward trend of the line graph.
Analysis:
- Statement of trend: “The demand for renewable energy sources experienced a steady increase between 2000 and 2010”
- “As shown by”: Links the trend to the visual evidence.
- Supporting data: “the upward trend of the line graph” pinpoints the specific visual element supporting the claim.
Applying “As Shown By” in IELTS Writing Task 2
While less frequent in Task 2, “as shown by” can still be valuable when you need to reference specific examples to support your arguments.
Example:
Many argue that globalization has led to cultural homogenization. However, this is an oversimplification, as evidenced by the vibrant and distinct cultural identities that persist worldwide.
Analysis:
- Statement: “this is an oversimplification” challenges a common view.
- “As evidenced by”: Introduces the counter-argument.
- Supporting example: “the vibrant and distinct cultural identities that persist worldwide” provides a concrete example to refute the previous statement.
Achieving a Higher Band Score: Variations and Synonyms
To demonstrate a wider vocabulary range, consider these alternatives:
- As illustrated by: Suitable for describing visual data like charts or diagrams.
- As evidenced by: Effective when presenting factual information or research findings.
- As demonstrated by: Useful for highlighting trends or patterns within data.
- This is clearly shown/illustrated/demonstrated by: Adds emphasis to the supporting evidence.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Overuse: Using “as shown by” repeatedly can make your writing sound repetitive.
- Incorrect grammar: Ensure the phrase fits grammatically within your sentence.
- Lack of specific reference: Clearly identify the specific data point supporting your claim.
Incorrect:
- The economy grew, as shown by the graph. (Too vague – which aspect of the graph?)
Correct:
- The economy experienced steady growth throughout the decade, as shown by the consistently upward trajectory of the GDP line on the graph.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “as shown by” and its synonyms is a key step towards achieving a higher band score in your IELTS writing. By understanding its function, mastering its application, and utilizing variations effectively, you can significantly enhance the clarity, coherence, and sophistication of your writing, ultimately impressing the examiners and boosting your overall score.