The “be built on + noun” structure is a crucial grammatical pattern that often appears in IELTS exams. Understanding and utilizing this structure effectively can significantly enhance your performance across all sections of the test. Let’s delve into its meaning, usage, and application in IELTS contexts.
Understanding the “Be Built On + Noun” Structure
The phrase “be built on + noun” is typically used to describe the foundation or basis of something, whether it’s a physical structure, an idea, or a system. This structure is particularly useful in academic and professional contexts, making it valuable for IELTS candidates.
Examples:
- “Their relationship was built on trust and mutual respect.”
- “The company’s success is built on innovation and customer satisfaction.”
- “Modern democracy is built on the principles of equality and representation.”
- “The city’s economy was built on manufacturing industries.”
- “Scientific progress is built on the work of previous generations.”
Grammar and Usage in IELTS
Formula and Grammatical Structure
The basic structure is:
[Subject] + [be verb] + built + on + [noun/noun phrase]
- The subject can be singular or plural.
- The be verb (is/are/was/were) should agree with the subject.
- “Built” is the past participle of “build” and remains unchanged.
- The noun or noun phrase following “on” represents the foundation or basis.
Application in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing Task 2, this structure can be particularly useful for:
-
Introducing main ideas:
“This essay argues that successful societies are built on education and equal opportunities.” -
Developing arguments:
“Economic stability is built on diversification of industries and a skilled workforce.” -
Concluding paragraphs:
“In conclusion, sustainable development must be built on a balance between economic growth and environmental protection.”
Use in IELTS Speaking
For the Speaking test, incorporate this structure to:
-
Describe personal experiences:
“My relationship with my best friend is built on years of shared experiences and mutual support.” -
Express opinions on social issues:
“I believe that social harmony is built on understanding and respect for diverse cultures.” -
Discuss career goals:
“My career plan is built on acquiring specialized skills in data analysis.”
Sample Passages and Analysis
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample
Topic: The importance of cultural heritage in modern society
Sample paragraph:
“Cultural heritage plays a vital role in shaping modern societies. Our sense of identity is built on the traditions and customs passed down through generations. Moreover, social cohesion is often built on shared cultural values that unite diverse communities. While progress is essential, it’s crucial to recognize that sustainable development should be built on a foundation that respects and incorporates cultural heritage. By doing so, societies can maintain their unique characteristics while adapting to the challenges of the modern world.”
Analysis:
This paragraph effectively uses the “be built on + noun” structure three times to emphasize the importance of cultural heritage. It demonstrates how this grammatical pattern can be used to express complex ideas concisely and coherently, which is crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing.
IELTS Speaking Part 2 Sample
Topic: Describe a successful small business you know about
“I’d like to talk about a small bakery in my neighborhood that has become quite successful. This business is built on the owner’s passion for artisanal bread-making and her commitment to using locally sourced ingredients. What makes it stand out is that its reputation is built on word-of-mouth recommendations from satisfied customers. The bakery’s success is built on three main pillars: quality products, excellent customer service, and community engagement. They regularly participate in local events and even offer baking classes, which has helped them build a loyal customer base. It’s inspiring to see how a small business can be built on simple principles yet have such a positive impact on the local community.”
Analysis:
In this speaking sample, the candidate uses the “be built on + noun” structure multiple times to describe various aspects of the business. This repetition demonstrates a good command of the structure while maintaining natural speech. It also allows the speaker to organize their thoughts clearly, which is essential for achieving a high band score in IELTS Speaking.
Strategies for High Band Scores
To achieve higher band scores (7+) in IELTS, consider the following strategies when using the “be built on + noun” structure:
-
Vary your vocabulary: Instead of always using “built,” consider synonyms like “founded,” “based,” or “grounded.”
Example: “Their success is grounded in hard work and perseverance.” -
Expand the noun phrase: Use more complex noun phrases to demonstrate advanced language skills.
Example: “Modern healthcare systems are built on a complex network of professionals, technologies, and policies.” -
Combine with other structures: Integrate this pattern with other advanced grammatical structures.
Example: “While the company’s initial success was built on innovative products, its sustained growth has been driven by its adaptability to changing market conditions.” -
Use in different tenses: Demonstrate versatility by using the structure in various tenses.
Example: “The city will be built on the principles of sustainability and smart technology.” -
Apply to abstract concepts: Show depth of thought by applying the structure to abstract ideas.
Example: “Effective leadership is built on emotional intelligence and the ability to inspire others.”
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Incorrect verb agreement:
Incorrect: “The team’s strategy are built on careful analysis.”
Correct: “The team’s strategy is built on careful analysis.” -
Using the wrong preposition:
Incorrect: “Their friendship is built in trust.”
Correct: “Their friendship is built on trust.” -
Overusing the structure:
While it’s a useful pattern, overusing it can make your writing or speaking repetitive. Aim for variety in your language use. -
Neglecting the passive voice:
Remember that this structure is in the passive voice. Ensure you’re using it appropriately and mixing it with active voice constructions for balance. -
Using incorrect noun forms:
Incorrect: “The theory is built on scientific research.”
Correct: “The theory is built on scientific research.” (Research is uncountable)
Conclusion
Mastering the “be built on + noun” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It allows you to express complex ideas about foundations, principles, and causes in a concise and academically appropriate manner. Practice incorporating this structure into your writing and speaking, always ensuring you use it naturally and in context. Remember to vary your language and combine it with other advanced structures to showcase your linguistic abilities fully. With consistent practice and attention to detail, you’ll be well-equipped to use this structure effectively in your IELTS exam and beyond.
For further practice, consider using this structure in essays about societal development, technological progress, or personal growth. These topics often require discussing foundational elements, making them perfect for applying the “be built on + noun” pattern.
To further enhance your IELTS preparation, you might find it helpful to explore related grammatical structures. For instance, understanding when to use reflexive pronouns can add another layer of sophistication to your language use. Additionally, for those interested in environmental topics, learning about how sustainable transport can reduce global emissions provides excellent context for applying the “be built on + noun” structure in discussions about environmental policy and urban planning.