Understanding and using “so that” sentences correctly can significantly enhance your IELTS score. This structure is commonly used to express purpose or intended result, making it a valuable tool for both the writing and speaking sections of the test. Let’s delve into the intricacies of “so that” sentences and explore how to apply them effectively in IELTS.

The Meaning and Frequency of “So That” in IELTS

“So that” is a conjunction used to introduce clauses of purpose. It’s equivalent to “in order that” or “in order to” and is frequently used in IELTS to demonstrate cause-effect relationships or to explain the reason for an action.

Examples:

1. I studied hard so that I could pass the IELTS exam.
2. The government is investing in education so that more people can access higher learning.
3. She practiced speaking English daily so that she could improve her fluency.

In these examples, the clause following “so that” expresses the purpose or intended result of the action in the main clause.

IELTS Exam Preparation

Grammar and Structure: How to Construct “So That” Sentences

The basic structure for “so that” sentences is:

Main clause + so that + subject + modal verb + verb

Key points to remember:

• “So that” is typically followed by a subject and a modal verb (can, could, would, etc.).
• The tense in the “so that” clause often depends on the tense in the main clause.

Examples:

1. I’m saving money (main clause) so that I (subject) can (modal verb) travel (verb) next year.
2. They built a new library (main clause) so that students (subject) could (modal verb) have (verb) better access to resources.

Applying “So That” in Different IELTS Sections

IELTS Writing Task 2

In essay writing, “so that” can be used to explain reasons for actions or policies:

“Governments should invest more in public transportation so that urban congestion can be reduced and air quality improved.”

This sentence effectively links the action (investing in public transportation) with its intended results (reducing congestion and improving air quality).

IELTS Speaking

In the speaking test, using “so that” can demonstrate your ability to express purpose:

Examiner: “Why do you want to learn English?”
Candidate: “I’m learning English so that I can study abroad and enhance my career prospects internationally.”

Advanced Usage for Higher Band Scores

To aim for higher band scores (7+), consider these more sophisticated uses:

1. Combining with other structures:
   “By implementing stricter environmental regulations, the government aims to reduce pollution so that future generations can enjoy a cleaner planet.”

2. Using in complex sentences:
   “Despite the initial costs, many companies are investing in renewable energy so that they can reduce their carbon footprint and appeal to environmentally conscious consumers.”

3. Employing in hypothetical situations:
   “If I were the mayor, I would increase funding for education so that every child could have access to quality learning resources.”

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Incorrect verb form:
   Incorrect: “She studied hard so that she pass the exam.”
   Correct: “She studied hard so that she could pass the exam.”

2. Omitting the subject:
   Incorrect: “I turned on the air conditioner so that could cool the room.”
   Correct: “I turned on the air conditioner so that it could cool the room.”

3. Using “to” instead of “so that”:
   Incorrect: “He spoke loudly to everyone could hear him.”
   Correct: “He spoke loudly so that everyone could hear him.”

4. Overusing “so that”:
   While “so that” is useful, overusing it can make your speech or writing repetitive. Vary your language with alternatives like “in order to,” “with the aim of,” or gerund phrases.

Conclusion

Mastering “so that” sentences can significantly enhance your IELTS performance. Practice incorporating this structure into your writing and speaking, always ensuring you maintain grammatical accuracy and natural flow. Remember to use it alongside a variety of other complex structures to truly showcase your language proficiency. As you prepare, consider creating sentences about topics like technology, education, environment, and global issues, as these are common themes in IELTS tasks where “so that” constructions can be effectively employed.