The “the more…the more…” structure is a powerful tool to demonstrate your grammatical range and sophistication in the IELTS exam. It’s used to express a parallel increase or decrease in two actions or states. Mastering this structure can significantly enhance your writing and speaking scores.
Let’s look at some examples of how this structure can be applied across different sections of the IELTS:
Speaking:
“The more I practice speaking English, the more confident I become.” (This demonstrates a clear relationship between practice and confidence)
Writing Task 1 (Describing trends):
“The higher the unemployment rate, the more likely it is that social unrest will occur.” (This effectively highlights the correlation between two variables in a graph or chart)
Writing Task 2 (Expressing an opinion):
“The more we invest in renewable energy, the less reliant we will be on fossil fuels.” (This strengthens your argument by presenting a clear consequence of an action)
Understanding “The More… The More…”
This structure is used to express a proportional relationship between two clauses. It implies that the degree of one action or state directly influences the degree of another.
Structure and Usage
Here’s the basic formula:
The + comparative adjective/adverb + Subject + Verb + , + the + comparative adjective/adverb + Subject + Verb
Examples:
- The harder you study, the better your grades will be.
- The more experience you gain, the easier it will be to find a job.
- The sooner you start, the more time you will have.
Usage in IELTS:
- Speaking: Use it to express personal opinions, experiences, or observations about trends.
- Writing Task 1: Effectively illustrate correlations and trends in graphs, charts, or diagrams.
- Writing Task 2: Strengthen your arguments by expressing cause-and-effect relationships or making persuasive points.
Applying the Structure in IELTS Writing
Let’s examine how this structure can be implemented effectively in an IELTS essay:
Topic: Some people believe that the government should spend more money on public transportation, while others think that it is better to invest in improving roads. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Example Paragraph using “the more… the more…” structure:
“Advocates for improved roads argue that the better the road infrastructure, the more efficiently goods and people can move, boosting the economy. However, this view overlooks the environmental impact. The more cars on the road, the higher the carbon emissions, leading to worsening air quality and exacerbating climate change.”
In this example, the structure effectively highlights the contrasting consequences of investing in roads versus public transport, making the argument more compelling.
Enhancing Your Score
Here’s how to use “the more… the more…” to achieve a higher band:
- Variety: Don’t overuse the structure. Use it strategically to emphasize key points.
- Accurate comparisons: Ensure both parts of the structure use comparative adjectives or adverbs.
- Clear connection: Make sure the relationship between the two clauses is logical and easy to understand.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect comparisons: Using superlative forms (e.g., “the most”) instead of comparatives.
- Mismatched structures: Using different grammatical structures in the two clauses.
By understanding the correct structure, applying it appropriately, and avoiding common mistakes, you can confidently utilize “the more… the more…” to express complex ideas effectively and boost your IELTS score.