How to Use “In Light of” Effectively in IELTS Writing and Speaking?

The phrase “in light of” is a useful expression that can enhance your vocabulary and demonstrate sophistication in your IELTS essays and speaking responses. Understanding its proper usage and application can significantly boost your language proficiency score. Let’s delve into the meaning, structure, and practical applications of this phrase in the context of IELTS.

Understanding “In Light of”

“In light of” is an idiomatic expression meaning “taking into consideration” or “because of.” It’s often used to introduce new information that affects or changes a situation or decision. This phrase is particularly valuable in academic and formal writing, making it ideal for IELTS tasks.

Examples:

1. In light of recent economic developments, the company has decided to postpone its expansion plans.
2. The government revised its environmental policies in light of new scientific evidence on climate change.
3. In light of the candidate’s impressive qualifications, the hiring committee decided to offer her the position immediately.

IELTS exam preparation

Grammar and Usage

Structure

The basic structure for using “in light of” is:

In light of + noun/noun phrase, + main clause

It’s important to note that “in light of” is always followed by a noun or noun phrase, not a complete clause. The main clause then follows, often separated by a comma.

Application in IELTS Writing

In IELTS Writing Task 2, “in light of” can be effectively used to:

1. Introduce a counterargument:
   “In light of these benefits, some argue that social media is predominantly positive. However, we must also consider its drawbacks.”

2. Present new information:
   “In light of recent technological advancements, traditional education methods are becoming increasingly obsolete.”

3. Conclude an essay:
   “In light of the evidence presented, it is clear that governments must take immediate action to address climate change.”

Using “In Light of” in Different IELTS Bands

To achieve higher band scores, it’s crucial to use complex structures accurately and appropriately.

Band 6 example:
“In light of the increasing pollution, we should use public transport more.”

Band 7-8 example:
“In light of the escalating environmental degradation, it is imperative that governments worldwide implement stringent regulations on industrial emissions and promote sustainable practices.”

Band 9 example:
“In light of the multifaceted challenges posed by rapid urbanization, policymakers must adopt a holistic approach, considering not only economic growth but also social equity and environmental sustainability in their urban development strategies.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Using “in the light of” instead of “in light of” – both are correct, but “in light of” is more common in modern usage.

Incorrect: “In the light of recent events, we have cancelled the meeting.”
Correct: “In light of recent events, we have cancelled the meeting.”

2. Following “in light of” with a clause instead of a noun or noun phrase.

Incorrect: “In light of the economy is struggling, the company froze hiring.”
Correct: “In light of the struggling economy, the company froze hiring.”

3. Overusing the phrase in a single paragraph or essay.

Poor usage: “In light of the rising costs, we need to budget carefully. In light of the upcoming winter, we should also save for heating. In light of these factors, our finances will be tight.”

Better: “In light of the rising costs and the upcoming winter, we need to budget carefully, particularly for heating expenses. Considering these factors, our finances will be tight in the coming months.”

Practical Applications in IELTS

Writing Task 2 Example

Prompt: Some people believe that universities should focus more on providing academic skills, while others think they should focus on employability skills. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sample paragraph:

“In light of the rapidly changing job market, many argue that universities should prioritize employability skills. They contend that practical skills such as communication, problem-solving, and digital literacy are more valuable in the workplace than traditional academic knowledge. However, proponents of academic focus argue that, in light of the unpredictable nature of future career paths, a strong foundation in critical thinking and research skills, typically developed through academic study, is essential for long-term career adaptability.”

Speaking Part 3 Example

Question: How do you think technology will change education in the future?

Sample answer:

“Well, in light of recent technological advancements, I believe education will undergo significant transformations in the coming years. For instance, virtual reality could revolutionize the way students experience learning, making it more immersive and interactive. Additionally, in light of the increasing accessibility of online resources, traditional classroom settings might evolve into more flexible, blended learning environments. However, it’s crucial to consider that, in light of the potential digital divide, educational institutions and policymakers must ensure equal access to these technological tools for all students.”

Conclusion

Mastering the use of “in light of” can significantly enhance your IELTS performance, particularly in Writing Task 2 and Speaking Part 3, where complex ideas need to be expressed clearly and concisely. Remember to use it to introduce relevant information or considerations that affect a situation or argument. Practice incorporating this phrase into your essays and speaking responses, always ensuring it’s followed by a noun or noun phrase and used in appropriate contexts. By doing so, you’ll demonstrate a sophisticated command of English, potentially boosting your language proficiency score in the IELTS exam.