“As well as” is a common yet powerful phrase in the English language, often causing confusion for IELTS test-takers. While seemingly simple, its usage can significantly impact your grammar and overall band score. This comprehensive guide delves into the intricacies of “as well as”, equipping you with the knowledge and skills to utilize it effectively in your IELTS exam.
Let’s examine a few examples of how “as well as” can be used in different sections of the IELTS:
Speaking (Part 1):
- “I enjoy playing basketball as well as swimming in my free time.” (This sentence highlights your interest in two activities.)
Writing (Task 2):
- “Technology has revolutionized communication as well as education.” (This statement argues that technology has impacted both sectors.)
Listening (Section 3):
- “The professor’s lecture covered the historical context of the novel as well as its main themes.” (This sentence summarizes the lecture’s key aspects.)
These examples demonstrate how “as well as” serves to connect and emphasize information within a sentence. Now, let’s delve deeper into its usage.
Understanding “As Well As”
“As well as” functions as a conjunction, meaning it links two or more words, phrases, or clauses of equal grammatical importance. It signifies that something exists in addition to something else.
Significance in IELTS
While “and” serves a similar purpose, “as well as” often implies a greater emphasis on the first element mentioned. This nuance can be crucial in tasks requiring you to highlight specific information or present balanced arguments. Using “as well as” effectively demonstrates your command of diverse grammatical structures and enhances your writing style, potentially contributing to a higher band score.
Using “As Well As” Correctly
Formula and Grammatical Points
Subject + Verb + Object + as well as + Noun/Phrase/Clause
Example:
- The new policy affects businesses as well as individual citizens.
Analysis:
- The sentence structure emphasizes the impact on “businesses” first, followed by the additional impact on “individual citizens.”
Applications in IELTS
Writing Task 1 (Describing Trends):
- “The graph illustrates a significant increase in online sales as well as a steady decline in physical store visits.”
Writing Task 2 (Presenting Balanced Views):
- “Governments should invest in renewable energy sources as well as promoting energy conservation measures.”
Speaking Part 3 (Expressing Complex Ideas):
- “Well, I believe social media has its drawbacks as well as its benefits.”
Avoiding Common Errors
Error 1: Incorrect Subject-Verb Agreement
Incorrect: The team captain, as well as the players, were excited about the victory.
Correct: The team captain, as well as the players, was excited about the victory.
Analysis: The verb should agree with the subject (“captain”), not the phrase following “as well as.”
Error 2: Redundancy with “Both”
Incorrect: Both the museum as well as the art gallery are worth visiting.
Correct: The museum as well as the art gallery are worth visiting.
Analysis: Using “both” with “as well as” creates redundancy. Choose one for clarity.
Tips for Effective Usage
- Use “as well as” to create balanced and complex sentences, showcasing your grammatical range.
- Pay close attention to subject-verb agreement, ensuring it aligns with the subject preceding “as well as.”
- Avoid redundancy by choosing either “as well as” or “both,” but not both together.
- Practice incorporating “as well as” into your writing and speaking to enhance fluency and naturalness.
Conclusion
Mastering the usage of “as well as” can significantly elevate your IELTS performance. By understanding its grammatical function, applying it correctly in various contexts, and avoiding common pitfalls, you can demonstrate greater language proficiency and achieve your desired band score. Remember, consistent practice and a keen eye for detail are key to success in the IELTS exam.