“In association with” is a phrase that often trips up IELTS test-takers, despite its seemingly simple structure. This phrase, signaling collaboration or partnership, frequently appears across various sections of the IELTS exam. Understanding its nuances is essential for achieving a band score of 7 or higher.
Let’s examine a few examples of how “in association with” might be used in the IELTS exam:
Speaking Part 2: “Describe a time you worked collaboratively on a project.” You might say: “In association with my classmates, I developed a marketing campaign for a local business.”
Listening Section: You might hear a speaker say, “This event is being held in association with the city council and several local charities.”
Reading Passage: A text could state, “The study, conducted in association with Harvard University, examined the effects of sleep deprivation.”
In each of these examples, “in association with” highlights a joint effort or collaboration, demonstrating the interconnectedness of the parties involved.
Understanding “In Association With”
Meaning and Usage
“In association with” indicates a joint effort, partnership, or collaboration between two or more entities. It suggests that the parties involved are working together to achieve a common goal.
This phrase is often used in formal contexts, such as academic papers, business reports, and news articles. However, it can also be used in less formal settings, such as everyday conversation, to describe a collaboration.
Frequency in IELTS
While not overly common, “in association with” appears frequently enough across various sections of the IELTS to warrant your attention. Recognizing and understanding this phrase will improve your comprehension in the Listening and Reading sections and allow you to express collaborative efforts more effectively in the Speaking and Writing sections.
Using “In Association With” Effectively
Formula and Grammatical Structure
Subject + Verb + “in association with” + Noun Phrase
This structure is simple yet versatile. The “Noun Phrase” can be a single word, a phrase, or a clause, depending on the complexity of the information you wish to convey.
Application in Different IELTS Sections
Writing Task 1 (Describing a Process): “The first stage of the manufacturing process, in association with quality control, ensures the raw materials meet the required standards.”
Writing Task 2 (Opinion Essay): “Governments, in association with non-profit organizations, should prioritize environmental protection initiatives.”
Speaking Part 3 (Discussion): “Well, I believe that technological advancements, in association with effective educational policies, have the potential to revolutionize learning.”
Collaboration Example
Elevating Your Language: Alternatives and Enhancements
While “in association with” is a useful phrase, using synonyms and related expressions can demonstrate a wider vocabulary range, which is highly valued in the IELTS exam. Here are some alternatives:
- In collaboration with
- In partnership with
- Jointly with
- Working alongside
- Teaming up with
- In conjunction with
These phrases can be used interchangeably with “in association with” in many contexts. However, some might be more appropriate than others depending on the specific situation. For instance, “teaming up with” might be more suitable for informal contexts, while “in conjunction with” is often preferred for formal writing.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
A common mistake is using “in association with” with the wrong preposition. Always remember to use “with,” not “to” or “of.”
Incorrect: The project was completed in association to the marketing department.
Correct: The project was completed in association with the marketing department.
Another frequent error is using the phrase unnecessarily when a simpler structure would suffice.
Wordy: The two companies worked together in association with each other to develop the new product.
Concise: The two companies collaborated to develop the new product.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “in association with” and its related expressions will undoubtedly enhance your ability to express collaborative relationships accurately and effectively in the IELTS exam. By understanding its nuances and practicing its application across different sections, you can confidently navigate the complexities of the exam and achieve your desired band score. Keep in mind that consistent practice and a focus on clarity and conciseness are key to success in your IELTS journey.
