“Considering” is a versatile word that can function as a preposition, gerund, or conjunction in English. When used as a conjunction, it introduces a clause that provides a reason or explanation for the main statement. This grammatical structure is particularly useful in IELTS Writing and Speaking tasks, as it allows candidates to express complex ideas and relationships between concepts. Let’s explore how to effectively use “considering” as a conjunction and how it can enhance your IELTS performance.
Understanding “Considering” as a Conjunction
“Considering” as a conjunction is used to introduce a clause that provides a reason or factor to be taken into account. It’s similar in meaning to “given that” or “taking into account.” This usage is particularly common in academic and formal writing, making it highly relevant for IELTS tasks.
Formula and Grammar Rules
The basic structure for using “considering” as a conjunction is:
[Main clause], considering [subordinate clause].
or
Considering [subordinate clause], [main clause].
It’s important to note that when “considering” introduces the sentence, it’s followed by a comma.
Examples in IELTS Context
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Writing Task 2: “The government should invest more in public transportation, considering the increasing levels of air pollution in major cities.”
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Speaking Part 3: “Considering the rapid advancement of technology, it’s crucial for educational systems to adapt quickly.”
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Writing Task 1: “The graph shows a significant increase in online sales, considering the global shift towards e-commerce in recent years.”
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Speaking Part 2: “I chose this career path, considering my passion for helping others and the growing demand in the healthcare sector.”
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Writing Task 2: “Considering the potential negative impacts on local ecosystems, authorities should carefully regulate tourism in natural areas.”
In each of these examples, “considering” introduces a factor that provides context or justification for the main statement. This structure allows for more nuanced and sophisticated expression of ideas, which is highly valued in IELTS assessments.
Applying “Considering” in Different IELTS Tasks
IELTS Writing Task 2
In Task 2 essays, using “considering” can help you present a balanced argument and demonstrate critical thinking. For example:
“Considering the long-term environmental impacts, governments should prioritize renewable energy sources over fossil fuels. However, the immediate economic consequences of such a transition cannot be ignored.”
This sentence structure allows you to acknowledge multiple aspects of an issue, which is crucial for achieving a high band score in Task 2.
IELTS Writing Task 1
While less common in Task 1, “considering” can still be useful for providing context to data interpretation:
“The graph indicates a steady increase in urban population, considering the ongoing trend of rural-to-urban migration in developing countries.”
IELTS Speaking
In the Speaking test, using “considering” can help you provide more detailed and thoughtful responses:
Examiner: “Do you think traditional markets will disappear in the future?”
Candidate: “Well, considering the convenience and wider selection offered by supermarkets and online shopping, traditional markets might face challenges. However, considering the cultural significance and unique atmosphere of these markets, I believe they will adapt rather than disappear completely.”
Achieving Higher Band Scores with “Considering”
Using “considering” effectively can contribute to higher band scores in several ways:
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Lexical Resource: It demonstrates a wider vocabulary range, especially when used with other advanced connectives.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Correct use of this structure shows the ability to form complex sentences.
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Coherence and Cohesion: It helps in linking ideas logically and presenting a well-structured argument.
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Task Achievement: In Writing, it aids in presenting a fully developed response with relevant supporting ideas.
To aim for Band 7 and above, try incorporating “considering” with other advanced structures:
“Considering the multifaceted nature of climate change, it is imperative that governments not only implement stricter environmental regulations but also invest in public education to foster a culture of sustainability.”
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
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Overuse: While “considering” is useful, overusing it can make your writing or speaking repetitive. Vary your language with synonymous expressions like “given that,” “taking into account,” or “in light of.”
Incorrect: “Considering the economic benefits, and considering the social impacts, and considering the environmental effects…”
Correct: “Considering the economic benefits, taking into account the social impacts, and in light of the environmental effects…”
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Incorrect Punctuation: Remember to use a comma when “considering” introduces the sentence.
Incorrect: “Considering the high cost of living many people are struggling to save money.”
Correct: “Considering the high cost of living, many people are struggling to save money.”
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Misusing as a Preposition: Don’t confuse the conjunctive use with the prepositional use.
Incorrect: “Considering to the current situation, we should act quickly.”
Correct: “Considering the current situation, we should act quickly.”
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Incomplete Thoughts: Ensure that both clauses in your sentence are complete.
Incorrect: “Considering the recent advancements in technology.”
Correct: “Considering the recent advancements in technology, businesses need to adapt their strategies.”
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Formal vs. Informal Use: Remember that “considering” as a conjunction is more suitable for formal contexts. In informal speaking, “seeing as” or “since” might be more natural.
Formal (Writing Task 2): “Considering the potential long-term effects, it’s crucial to address climate change now.”
Informal (Speaking): “Seeing as it’s getting late, we should probably head home.”
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “considering” as a conjunction can significantly enhance your performance in IELTS Writing and Speaking tasks. It allows you to express complex ideas, provide context, and demonstrate a high level of English proficiency. Remember to practice using this structure in various contexts and to balance it with other advanced grammatical forms. By doing so, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a wide range of IELTS topics and achieve a higher band score. Keep in mind that while “considering” is a valuable tool, it’s just one of many linguistic devices at your disposal. Continual practice and exposure to diverse language structures will ultimately lead to more natural and effective communication in your IELTS exam.