The phrase “Such is the beauty of art that it transcends boundaries” is an example of an inverted sentence structure often used to emphasize a particular quality or effect. This structure, while not overly complex, demonstrates a sophisticated grasp of English grammar and can be effectively used in the IELTS Writing test to showcase your language proficiency and achieve a higher band score.
Here are some examples of how you can incorporate this structure into different sections of the IELTS Writing test:
Task 1 (describing a graph):
- “The graph illustrates a sharp increase in museum attendance over the past decade. Such is the enduring appeal of art that even in our technology-driven world, people crave the enrichment and connection it provides.”
In this example, the inverted sentence effectively links the visual data (increased museum attendance) to a broader cultural insight, demonstrating an ability to interpret and analyze information.
Task 2 (essay):
- “Some argue that government funding should prioritize practical matters over the arts. However, such is the power of art to inspire creativity and critical thinking that neglecting it would be a disservice to society.“
Here, the structure is used to present a counter-argument, showcasing a balanced and nuanced perspective, a key factor in achieving a higher score in Task 2.
Deconstructing the Structure: “Such + be + Subject + that…”
This structure is essentially a more emphatic way of saying “Something is so… that…”
Let’s break down the phrase “Such is the beauty of art that it transcends boundaries”:
- Such: This word acts as a determiner, referring back to something previously mentioned or implied (in this case, the beauty of art).
- is: This is the linking verb, connecting the subject (“the beauty of art”) to the complement.
- the beauty of art: This is the subject of the sentence.
- that it transcends boundaries: This is a relative clause modifying the subject, explaining the effect of the subject’s quality (beauty).
Art Transcends Boundaries
Using the Structure in Your Writing
Formula:
Such + be (is/are/was/were) + Subject + that + Result/Consequence
Application:
This structure is most effective when you want to:
- Emphasize a quality or effect: Use it to draw attention to a specific characteristic and its impact.
- Present a result or consequence: Use it to show how something leads to a particular outcome.
- Create a sense of drama or impact: The inversion of the sentence structure can make your writing more engaging.
IELTS Writing Sample:
Task 2: Discuss the importance of preserving cultural heritage sites.
Sample Response:
“In an era of rapid globalization, it is easy to overlook the importance of our cultural heritage. However, these historical sites are not merely relics of the past; they are tangible links to our collective memory, offering valuable insights into who we are and where we come from. Such is the power of these places to connect us to our roots that their preservation should be considered a matter of paramount importance. Neglecting them would be tantamount to erasing entire chapters of human history and severing ties with our cultural identity.”
Analysis:
The sentence in bold utilizes the “such…that” structure to emphasize the profound impact of cultural heritage sites, highlighting their ability to connect people to their origins. This strengthens the argument for their preservation, showcasing a sophisticated use of language to convey a persuasive message.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Incorrect word order: Ensure the structure follows the correct order: Such + be + Subject + that…
- Subject-verb agreement: The verb (is/are/was/were) must agree with the subject.
- Overuse: While effective, using this structure too often can make your writing sound repetitive. Use it judiciously for maximum impact.
Conclusion:
Mastering varied grammatical structures is essential for achieving a high band score in the IELTS Writing test. The “such…that” construction, though simple in appearance, allows you to present ideas with greater emphasis and sophistication. By understanding its structure, applications, and potential pitfalls, you can confidently incorporate it into your writing to demonstrate your language proficiency and impress the examiners. Now that you are equipped with this knowledge, practice implementing this structure in your own writing to see the positive impact it can have on your IELTS score.