The “be worth + gerund” structure is a valuable grammatical construct that frequently appears in IELTS exams. Understanding and effectively using this structure can significantly enhance your performance across various sections of the test. Let’s delve into its meaning, usage, and application in IELTS contexts.
Understanding the “Be Worth + Gerund” Structure
The “be worth + gerund” structure is used to express that something is valuable or worthwhile enough to justify an action. It’s a concise way to convey the idea that an action or experience is deserving of the time, effort, or resources invested in it.
Formula: Subject + be + worth + gerund
Here are some examples to illustrate its use in IELTS-relevant contexts:
- “This museum is worth visiting for its extensive collection of ancient artifacts.”
- “The new environmental policy is worth implementing despite its initial costs.”
- “Learning a second language is worth investing time and effort into.”
- “The local cuisine is worth trying when traveling to new destinations.”
- “Volunteering is worth considering for personal growth and community impact.”
In each of these sentences, the structure emphasizes the value or merit of an action or experience.
Be worth gerund structure
Applying “Be Worth + Gerund” in IELTS Writing
Task 2 Essays
In IELTS Writing Task 2, using the “be worth + gerund” structure can add sophistication to your essay and demonstrate a high level of grammatical control. Here’s an example of how you might incorporate it into an essay about environmental conservation:
“While some argue that environmental conservation measures are costly, the long-term benefits to our planet and future generations are worth considering. Implementing sustainable practices is worth investing in, as it can lead to significant reductions in pollution and resource depletion. Moreover, educating the public about eco-friendly behaviors is worth prioritizing, as it fosters a collective responsibility towards our environment.”
Task 1 Reports
Although less common in Task 1 reports, you can still use this structure to describe data or trends:
“The graph shows that while initial investment in renewable energy was high, the long-term savings were worth noting. The reduction in carbon emissions was worth highlighting, as it demonstrated the positive environmental impact of the policy.”
Utilizing “Be Worth + Gerund” in IELTS Speaking
In the Speaking test, using this structure can showcase your ability to express value judgments fluently. Here are some examples:
When discussing hobbies: “Photography is worth pursuing as a hobby because it allows you to capture and preserve precious moments.”
Talking about travel: “Even though it can be expensive, traveling is worth experiencing for the cultural insights and personal growth it offers.”
Discussing education: “Although university can be challenging, the knowledge and skills gained are worth acquiring for future career prospects.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Incorrect verb form: Using the infinitive instead of the gerund.
- Incorrect: “The museum is worth to visit.”
- Correct: “The museum is worth visiting.”
Misplacing ‘worth’: Putting ‘worth’ after the gerund.
- Incorrect: “The book is reading worth.”
- Correct: “The book is worth reading.”
Using a direct object: Adding a direct object after ‘worth’.
- Incorrect: “This restaurant is worth trying it.”
- Correct: “This restaurant is worth trying.”
Forgetting ‘be’: Omitting the ‘be’ verb.
- Incorrect: “The experience worth remembering.”
- Correct: “The experience is worth remembering.”
Enhancing Your IELTS Score with “Be Worth + Gerund”
To achieve a higher band score, it’s crucial 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 think learning English worth trying.” (incorrect)Band 7: Correct use of the structure in simple contexts.
“I believe learning English is worth trying.”Band 8-9: Sophisticated use of the structure in complex sentences and varied contexts.
“Despite the initial challenges, mastering a new language is worth dedicating time and effort to, as it not only enhances career prospects but also broadens one’s cultural horizons.”
Conclusion
Mastering the “be worth + gerund” structure can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. By incorporating this versatile construct into your writing and speaking, you demonstrate a high level of grammatical control and the ability to express value judgments effectively. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts to ensure fluency and accuracy in your IELTS responses. As you prepare for your exam, consider exploring related structures like “It’s not worth + gerund” or “be well-known for + noun/gerund” to further expand your linguistic repertoire.