The phrase “such was the impact that…” is a powerful way to emphasize the significant effect of something. It’s a structure that can elevate your IELTS writing, demonstrating a command of complex grammatical structures and sophisticated vocabulary. Let’s explore how this phrase works and how you can use it effectively in your IELTS exam.
Here are a few examples of how “such was the impact that…” can be used in different sections of the IELTS exam:
Speaking Part 2:
- “Describe a time you witnessed a natural disaster.”
- “…Such was the impact of the earthquake that buildings crumbled, and the landscape was forever altered.”
Writing Task 1:
- “The graph shows the growth of internet usage in a particular country.”
- “Such was the impact of affordable technology that internet usage skyrocketed in the late 1990s.”
Writing Task 2:
- “Some people believe that globalization has had a negative impact on cultural diversity. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.”
- “While globalization has led to some degree of cultural homogenization, such was the impact of increased communication and travel that people have also developed a greater appreciation for other cultures.”
Let’s break down a sentence to understand the components:
- Such was: This part introduces the result and implies a preceding cause.
- the impact: This refers to the strong effect.
- that: This conjunction links the impact to its consequence.
- it changed everything: This illustrates the specific outcome of the impact.
Understanding the Phrase “Such Was the Impact That…”
This phrase uses an inverted sentence structure. In simpler terms, the sentence structure is flipped. The standard order would be “The impact was so great that…”. By inverting the sentence, we create a more dramatic and emphatic tone. It’s particularly useful when you want to highlight the consequence of an event or action.
Using “Such Was the Impact That…” in IELTS Writing
Meaning and Frequency
This phrase is not overly common in everyday English, but it’s a gem for formal writing, which makes it perfect for IELTS. Using it demonstrates your grasp of advanced grammatical structures and your ability to vary sentence structure, both crucial for a high band score.
Formula and Grammatical Insights
Here’s the basic formula:
Such was + the + noun (usually abstract, signifying impact/effect) + that + result clause
Example:
- Such was the influence of the Renaissance that it sparked artistic and scientific revolutions across Europe.
Here’s how it works grammatically:
- “Such”: Acts as a determiner, emphasizing the degree of something.
- “Was”: The verb “to be” used in the past tense, indicating the impact happened in the past.
- “That”: A conjunction connecting the impact to its result.
Sample Applications in IELTS Writing
Let’s see how to effectively use this phrase in different sections of the IELTS writing exam:
IELTS Writing Task 1:
- Describing Trends: “Such was the impact of the new legislation that carbon emissions fell dramatically within two years.”
- Highlighting Significant Changes: “The introduction of antibiotics had a profound effect on healthcare. Such was the impact of these drugs that previously fatal diseases became treatable.”
IELTS Writing Task 2:
- Illustrating Consequences: “Many argue that social media has diminished genuine human connection. Such is the impact of constant online interaction that face-to-face communication is dwindling.”
- Emphasizing a Point: “The invention of the printing press revolutionized the world. Such was the impact of accessible knowledge that literacy rates soared, and new ideas spread like wildfire.”
Tips for Achieving a Higher Band Score
To score highly, consider these strategies:
- Varied Vocabulary: Instead of repeating “impact”, use synonyms like “influence,” “effect,” “consequence,” or “ramifications.”
- Complex Sentences: Embed this phrase within a longer sentence to demonstrate your command of complex grammatical structures. For instance, “Despite initial skepticism, such was the impact of the new teaching method that student engagement and performance improved significantly.”
Common Errors to Avoid
- Incorrect Tense Agreement: Ensure the verbs in the main clause and the result clause have logical tense agreement.
- Overuse: Like any powerful tool, don’t overuse it. Sprinkle it judiciously throughout your writing for maximum impact.
- Informal Language: This phrase is formal; avoid using it in informal contexts.
Conclusion
Mastering sophisticated phrases like “such was the impact that…” can significantly enhance your IELTS writing. It allows you to express ideas with clarity, emphasis, and a touch of elegance, ultimately boosting your chances of achieving a higher band score. Remember to practice integrating it into your writing, paying attention to grammar and context, to maximize its effectiveness.