Understanding and effectively using the phrase “be aware of + noun/gerund” is crucial for IELTS success. This versatile structure appears frequently in both the reading and listening sections, and mastering it can significantly boost your writing and speaking scores. Let’s delve into the intricacies of this phrase and explore how to utilize it effectively in your IELTS preparation and exam.
The Meaning and Frequency in IELTS
The phrase “be aware of” essentially means to have knowledge or understanding of something. It’s often used to express consciousness or recognition of a particular fact, situation, or potential problem. In IELTS exams, this structure appears regularly, especially in academic contexts and formal discussions.
Examples:
- Students should be aware of the university’s plagiarism policy.
- Researchers must be aware of ethical considerations when conducting experiments.
- Employers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of work-life balance.
- Travelers need to be aware of local customs and traditions.
- The public is now more aware of environmental issues than ever before.
Grammar Formula and Usage
The structure “be aware of” follows this formula:
[Subject] + [be] + aware of + [noun/gerund]
It’s important to note that “aware” is an adjective, not a verb, so it must always be accompanied by a form of “be” (am, is, are, was, were, etc.).
Using with Nouns:
- We are aware of the problem with the new software.
- She was aware of the risks involved in the experiment.
Using with Gerunds:
- They are aware of being watched by security cameras.
- I am aware of having made mistakes in the past.
Sample Passages for IELTS Tasks
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample:
Topic: The impact of technology on society
“In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, it’s crucial for individuals to be aware of both the benefits and drawbacks of technology. While many people are aware of the convenience that smartphones and the internet bring to our daily lives, they may not be fully aware of the potential negative impacts on mental health and social interactions. Governments and educational institutions should strive to ensure that citizens are aware of using technology responsibly, promoting digital literacy programs that highlight both the opportunities and risks associated with our increasingly connected world.”
IELTS Speaking Part 3 Sample:
Question: How has environmental awareness changed in recent years?
“I believe environmental awareness has increased significantly in recent years. More people are now aware of the consequences of their actions on the planet. For instance, consumers are becoming increasingly aware of the importance of recycling and reducing plastic waste. Additionally, many individuals are aware of making more sustainable choices in their daily lives, such as using public transport or opting for energy-efficient appliances. However, it’s important to note that while general awareness has improved, there’s still a need for people to be more aware of taking concrete actions to address environmental issues.”
Strategies for High Band Scores
To achieve higher band scores in IELTS, it’s essential to use “be aware of” accurately and with sophistication. Here are some strategies:
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Vary your vocabulary: Instead of always using “aware,” consider synonyms like “conscious,” “mindful,” or “cognizant” where appropriate.
Example: “Students should be cognizant of the importance of time management in exams.”
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Use complex sentence structures:
Example: “Being aware of cultural differences is crucial when working in international teams, as it helps prevent misunderstandings and fosters a more inclusive environment.”
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Incorporate it into idiomatic expressions:
Example: “The company needs to be aware of the writing on the wall and adapt to changing market conditions.”
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Use it with abstract concepts:
Example: “Modern leaders must be aware of the nuances of emotional intelligence to effectively manage diverse teams.”
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Combine with other advanced structures:
Example: “Had they been aware of the potential consequences, they might have approached the situation differently.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
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Incorrect preposition:
- Incorrect: “He is aware about the rules.”
- Correct: “He is aware of the rules.”
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Using it as a verb:
- Incorrect: “They aware the risks.”
- Correct: “They are aware of the risks.”
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Forgetting the “be” verb:
- Incorrect: “We aware of the situation.”
- Correct: “We are aware of the situation.”
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Using with “to” infinitive instead of gerund:
- Incorrect: “They are aware of to make changes.”
- Correct: “They are aware of making changes.”
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Overusing in informal contexts:
- Less appropriate: “I’m aware of needing milk from the store.”
- More natural: “I know we need milk from the store.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “be aware of + noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance across all sections. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts, from formal academic writing to more casual speaking scenarios. As you prepare, challenge yourself to incorporate this phrase into your essays, speaking practice, and even when analyzing reading and listening passages. By doing so, you’ll not only improve your grasp of this specific structure but also elevate your overall English proficiency, setting yourself up for success in the IELTS exam.
For further practice, consider exploring related phrases such as “be conscious of” and “be crucial for” to expand your vocabulary and enhance your ability to express awareness and importance in various contexts.