The “be sure of + noun/gerund” structure is a crucial grammatical pattern that often appears in IELTS exams. Mastering this structure can significantly enhance your language proficiency and boost your scores across all sections of the test. Let’s delve into its usage, importance, and application in IELTS.
Understanding the “Be Sure of + Noun/Gerund” Structure
The phrase “be sure of” is commonly used to express certainty or confidence about something. It can be followed by either a noun or a gerund (verb + -ing form), depending on the context. This versatility makes it a valuable structure for IELTS candidates to master.
Examples:
- I am sure of my answer. (noun)
- She is sure of winning the competition. (gerund)
- They are sure of their abilities to succeed. (noun)
- We are sure of completing the project on time. (gerund)
- The manager is sure of the team’s potential. (noun)
Be Sure of Structure
Grammar Formula and Usage in IELTS
The basic formula for this structure is:
[Subject] + [be] + sure of + [noun/gerund]
In IELTS, this structure can be used effectively in various sections:
IELTS Writing
In both Task 1 and Task 2, using “be sure of” can help you express certainty and confidence in your analysis or arguments.
Example for Task 1:
“I am sure of the data’s accuracy, as it comes from a reputable source.”
Example for Task 2:
“While some may argue against this policy, I am sure of its potential to bring positive change.”
IELTS Speaking
Incorporating this structure in your responses can demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency.
Example:
Examiner: “Do you think technology will continue to advance rapidly?”
Candidate: “Absolutely. I’m sure of technology’s continued progress, given the rapid advancements we’ve seen in recent years.”
IELTS Reading
Understanding this structure can help you comprehend complex texts more effectively.
Example from a potential IELTS reading passage:
“Scientists are sure of climate change’s impact on global weather patterns, despite ongoing debates about its long-term consequences.”
IELTS Listening
Recognizing this structure in audio passages can improve your comprehension and help you answer questions more accurately.
Example from a potential listening script:
“The project manager was sure of meeting the deadline, despite the numerous challenges faced by the team.”
Sample Paragraphs Using “Be Sure of + Noun/Gerund”
Here’s an example of how you might use this structure in an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay:
“In today’s rapidly evolving job market, many young professionals are uncertain about their career paths. However, I am sure of the importance of adaptability in ensuring long-term success. Those who are sure of their ability to learn new skills quickly are more likely to thrive in diverse work environments. Moreover, employers are increasingly sure of the value of versatile employees who can navigate change effectively. Therefore, while one cannot be sure of the exact skills required in future job markets, being sure of one’s capacity to adapt is crucial for career longevity.”
Achieving Higher Band Scores with “Be Sure of + Noun/Gerund”
To achieve higher band scores in IELTS, it’s essential to use this structure accurately and in appropriate contexts. Here’s how its usage might differ across band scores:
Band 5-6: Basic use of the structure, possibly with some errors.
“I am sure of pass the exam.” (Incorrect)
Band 7: Correct use of the structure in simple contexts.
“I am sure of passing the exam.”
Band 8-9: Sophisticated use of the structure in complex sentences and varied contexts.
“Despite the challenging nature of the IELTS exam, I am sure of my ability to excel, having dedicated months to rigorous preparation and practice.”
IELTS Band Scores
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Incorrect verb form after “of”:
Incorrect: “She is sure of win the race.”
Correct: “She is sure of winning the race.”Using “to” instead of “of”:
Incorrect: “They are sure to their success.”
Correct: “They are sure of their success.”Confusion with similar phrases:
Be careful not to confuse “be sure of” with “be sure to.” While “be sure of” expresses certainty about something, “be sure to” is used to give instructions or reminders.Example:
“Be sure of your facts before making a statement.” (Expressing certainty)
“Be sure to check your facts before making a statement.” (Giving a reminder)Overuse in formal writing:
While “be sure of” is a useful structure, overusing it in formal writing can make your text sound repetitive. Vary your language with synonymous expressions like “be confident in,” “be certain of,” or “have no doubt about.”
Conclusion
Mastering the “be sure of + noun/gerund” structure can significantly enhance your performance in the IELTS exam. By incorporating this versatile phrase into your language repertoire, you can express certainty and confidence across all sections of the test. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts and to avoid common mistakes. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, be sure of your ability to use this structure effectively, and you’ll be one step closer to achieving your desired band score.
To further improve your IELTS preparation, you might also want to explore other useful grammatical structures such as “be useful for + noun/gerund” and “in the course of + noun/gerund”. These structures can help you express ideas more precisely and demonstrate a higher level of language proficiency in your IELTS responses.