“No Matter What Happens, Stay Calm” is a phrase we often hear to encourage resilience and composure. But did you know that this simple phrase exemplifies a powerful grammatical structure that can significantly enhance your IELTS Speaking performance? This structure is called a concession clause, and mastering it can help you express complex ideas more fluently and achieve a higher band score.

Here are a few examples of how concession clauses can be used in the IELTS Speaking test:

• Part 1: “Although I enjoy trying new cuisines, I always find myself going back to my favorite Italian restaurant.” (Concession clause highlights a contrasting preference)

• Part 2: “Despite the initial challenges of adapting to a new culture, I found the experience incredibly rewarding.” (Concession clause emphasizes resilience)

• Part 3: “While technology has undoubtedly made our lives easier, it’s crucial to find a balance and avoid over-reliance.” (Concession clause presents a balanced perspective)

Let’s delve into the mechanics of concession clauses and explore how you can use them effectively in your IELTS Speaking test.

Understanding Concession Clauses

Concession clauses are used to acknowledge a contrasting fact or viewpoint before presenting your main argument. They are particularly useful for:

• Demonstrating a wider range of vocabulary: Using phrases like “despite,” “although,” or “even though” showcases your lexical resource.
• Presenting balanced arguments: Acknowledging opposing views demonstrates critical thinking skills.
• Creating complex sentence structures: Using concession clauses adds sophistication and fluency to your speech.

Structure and Punctuation of Concession Clauses

Here’s the basic formula for constructing a concession clause:

[Conjunction] + [Subject] + [Verb], [Main Clause]

Conjunctions commonly used in concession clauses include:

• Although
• Though
• Even though
• While
• Whereas
• Despite
• In spite of

Note:

• Commas: Use a comma after the concession clause when it comes before the main clause. When the concession clause comes after the main clause, the comma is generally optional.
• Subject-verb inversion: Some concession clauses can use subject-verb inversion for emphasis. For example, “Difficult as it may seem, I’m determined to succeed.”

IELTS Speaking Test Example

Concession Clauses in IELTS Speaking: Examples and Analysis

Part 1: Introducing Yourself and Familiar Topics

• Examiner: What do you enjoy doing in your free time?
• Candidate: Even though my work keeps me quite busy, I always make time for painting. It’s a great way to relax and express my creativity.

(Analysis: The candidate uses “Even though” to acknowledge a busy schedule before stating their hobby. This creates a natural flow and adds depth to the response.)

Part 2: Describing an Event or Experience

• Describe a time you faced a challenge and how you overcame it.
• Candidate: …Despite feeling overwhelmed at first, I decided to break down the task into smaller, manageable steps. This approach helped me stay focused and ultimately achieve my goal.

(Analysis: “Despite feeling overwhelmed at first” is a concise and impactful way to acknowledge the initial difficulty before explaining the solution.)

Part 3: Discussing Abstract Ideas

• Examiner: Do you think technology has made our lives better?
• Candidate: While technology has undoubtedly brought numerous benefits, such as increased connectivity and access to information, it’s also important to consider its potential drawbacks. For instance, excessive screen time can have negative effects on our mental and physical health.

(Analysis: The candidate uses “While” to acknowledge the positive aspects of technology before introducing a counter-argument. This demonstrates a balanced and nuanced perspective.)

Achieving a Higher Band Score with Concession Clauses

To impress the examiner and achieve a higher band score:

• Use a variety of conjunctions: Instead of repeating “although,” experiment with “even though,” “while,” “whereas,” etc.
• Use subject-verb inversion for emphasis: This showcases a sophisticated grasp of grammar.
• Connect concession clauses to your main ideas: Ensure a smooth transition between the contrasting idea and your main argument.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

• Incorrect punctuation: Remember the comma rule mentioned earlier.
• Using the wrong conjunction: Make sure the conjunction accurately reflects the relationship between the two clauses.
• Overusing concession clauses: Use them strategically for emphasis and variety, not in every sentence.

Conclusion

Concession clauses are a valuable tool for any IELTS candidate aiming for a high band score. By mastering their structure and usage, you can significantly enhance the fluency, complexity, and impact of your spoken English. Remember to practice incorporating concession clauses into your daily speech and mock IELTS tests to build confidence and fluency.