Many IELTS test-takers struggle with complex conjunctions like “considering that.” While it might seem like a small grammar point, using such conjunctions effectively can significantly enhance your writing and speaking scores, showcasing a wider range of grammar and vocabulary.
Let’s consider these examples:
Speaking: “Considering that I only started learning English a year ago, I’m quite pleased with my progress.”
Writing Task 1: “Considering that the unemployment rate has decreased, consumer confidence is expected to rise.”
Writing Task 2: “Some people argue that space exploration is a waste of resources, considering that there are more pressing issues on Earth.”
In each of these examples, “considering that” introduces a factor that influences the main clause, demonstrating your ability to express nuanced ideas and connect information logically.
Understanding “Considering That” in IELTS
“Considering that” is a subordinating conjunction used to introduce a dependent clause that expresses a fact or circumstance that should be taken into account. It’s similar in meaning to:
- Given that
- In view of the fact that
- Taking into account that
- Bearing in mind that
Using “considering that” and its synonyms effectively demonstrates a strong command of grammar and vocabulary, which is crucial for achieving a higher IELTS band score. It helps to express complex ideas clearly and concisely, making your writing and speaking more sophisticated and impactful.
Grammar Structure and Usage
The general structure for using “considering that” is as follows:
[Main Clause], considering that [Dependent Clause].
Example: The team performed admirably, considering that they had little time to prepare.
Breakdown:
- Main Clause: The team performed admirably
- Subordinating Conjunction: considering that
- Dependent Clause: they had little time to prepare
“Considering that” can also be placed at the beginning of a sentence, followed by a comma:
Considering that [Dependent Clause], [Main Clause].
Example: Considering that the company is new, its growth has been impressive.
Breakdown:
- Subordinating Conjunction: Considering that
- Dependent Clause: the company is new
- Main Clause: its growth has been impressive
Applying “Considering That” in IELTS
Writing Task 1
“Considering that” proves especially useful in Writing Task 1 when analyzing trends and drawing comparisons.
Example:
The graph shows a significant increase in online shopping from 2010 to 2020. This is unsurprising, considering that internet usage has also increased dramatically during this period.
In this example, “considering that” effectively links the rise in online shopping to the increased internet usage, showcasing a deeper understanding of the data.
Writing Task 2
In Writing Task 2, you can utilize “considering that” to present counterarguments or provide supporting evidence for your claims.
Example:
Some people believe that technology makes us less social. However, considering that social media platforms allow us to connect with people across the globe, this argument seems flawed.
Here, “considering that” introduces a counterpoint, highlighting the social benefits of technology and creating a more persuasive argument.
Speaking Test
During the Speaking test, using “considering that” can add sophistication and fluency to your responses.
Example:
Examiner: Do you think it’s important to learn another language?
You: Absolutely! Considering that we live in a globalized world, being multilingual opens up countless opportunities for both personal and professional growth.
By incorporating “considering that,” you provide a relevant reason for your opinion, making your response more coherent and demonstrating a higher level of English proficiency.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
A common mistake is using “considering that” when a different conjunction would be more appropriate. Remember, “considering that” implies taking a specific factor into account when forming a conclusion.
Incorrect: He must be tired, considering that he slept for only five hours.
Correct: He must be tired, considering that he worked all night.
In the incorrect example, “because” or “since” would be more suitable, as they directly link the cause (lack of sleep) and effect (tiredness). The corrected version uses “considering that” to highlight the fact that working all night is a significant factor to consider when assessing his tiredness.
Conclusion
Mastering conjunctions like “considering that” is crucial for achieving a high IELTS score. By understanding its meaning, grammatical structure, and application in different sections of the test, you can express your ideas more precisely, demonstrating a strong command of the English language. Remember to practice using this conjunction in various contexts to improve your fluency and accuracy. Don’t be afraid to experiment with synonyms like “given that” or “in view of the fact that” to further expand your vocabulary and enhance your writing and speaking.