Understanding and effectively using the structure “Be Motivated By + Noun/gerund” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. This versatile phrase allows you to express motivation and reasons behind actions or decisions, which is particularly useful in Writing Task 2 essays and Speaking Part 3 discussions.
Understanding the Structure
The phrase “be motivated by + noun/gerund” is used to express what drives or inspires someone to take action. It’s a common structure in academic and professional English, making it valuable for IELTS candidates aiming for higher band scores.
Grammar Formula:
[Subject] + [be] + motivated by + [noun/gerund]
Examples:
- Scientists are motivated by curiosity to explore the unknown.
- Many people are motivated by the desire for financial security.
- Entrepreneurs are often motivated by creating innovative solutions.
Using “Be Motivated by” in IELTS Writing
In IELTS Writing Task 2, this structure can help you articulate reasons and motivations clearly, which is crucial for developing your arguments.
Example for Writing Task 2:
Topic: Some people believe that success in life comes from taking risks or chances. Others believe that success results from careful planning.
Sample Paragraph:
While some individuals are motivated by the thrill of taking risks, others are motivated by the security of careful planning. Risk-takers might be motivated by potential high rewards, seeing opportunities where others see danger. On the other hand, careful planners are often motivated by the desire for stability and predictable outcomes. They are motivated by the satisfaction of seeing their well-thought-out strategies come to fruition.
Analysis: In this paragraph, the structure is used multiple times to contrast different motivations, showcasing a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures, which are key criteria for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing.
Applying “Be Motivated by” in IELTS Speaking
In the Speaking test, particularly in Part 3 where you’re expected to discuss abstract ideas, this phrase can help you express opinions and analyze motivations more eloquently.
Example for Speaking Part 3:
Question: Why do you think some people are motivated to become leaders in their communities?
Sample Answer: I believe people are motivated by various factors to become community leaders. Some are motivated by a genuine desire to make a positive change in their neighborhood. Others might be motivated by the recognition and respect that comes with such a position. Additionally, many are motivated by personal experiences or challenges they’ve faced, which inspire them to help others in similar situations.
Analysis: This answer demonstrates a good use of the target structure, varied vocabulary, and complex ideas – all crucial elements for achieving a high band score in IELTS Speaking.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect Verb Form:
- Incorrect: “He is motivate by success.”
- Correct: “He is motivated by success.”
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Using ‘To’ Instead of ‘By’:
- Incorrect: “They are motivated to money.”
- Correct: “They are motivated by money.”
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Forgetting the Gerund:
- Incorrect: “She is motivated by to learn new skills.”
- Correct: “She is motivated by learning new skills.”
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Mixing Up Active and Passive Voice:
- Incorrect: “Success motivates by him.”
- Correct: “He is motivated by success.”
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Incorrect Word Order:
- Incorrect: “By success he is motivated.”
- Correct: “He is motivated by success.”
Enhancing Your IELTS Score
To achieve a higher band score, consider these advanced uses:
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Combine with Other Structures:
“Not only is she motivated by personal growth, but she also inspires others through her actions.” -
Use in Conditional Sentences:
“If employees were motivated by more than just financial rewards, companies might see increased productivity.” -
Incorporate Adverbs:
“Students are often primarily motivated by the prospect of better career opportunities.” -
Use in Comparisons:
“While some are motivated by short-term gains, others are more motivated by long-term stability.” -
Employ in Passive Constructions:
“It is widely believed that great achievements are often motivated by a desire to overcome adversity.”
Conclusion
Mastering the “be motivated by + noun/gerund” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. It allows you to express complex ideas about motivation and reasoning, which is valuable across all parts of the IELTS test. Practice incorporating this structure into your writing and speaking to demonstrate linguistic flexibility and depth of expression. Remember, the key to success in IELTS is not just knowing the grammar, but applying it naturally and effectively in context.