“In order to” is a useful phrase for expressing purpose in English, which can be particularly helpful in achieving a higher band score in IELTS writing. Let’s explore its use in various IELTS Writing Task 2 essays and how mastering this structure can significantly enhance your writing.
Understanding “In Order To” for IELTS Writing
The phrase “in order to” signifies the purpose or reason behind an action. It is crucial for conveying complex ideas and demonstrating a strong command of grammatical structures, both essential for achieving a band 7 or higher in IELTS Writing Task 2.
Here are some examples of how “in order to” can be used in IELTS Writing:
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Argumentative Essay: “Governments should invest heavily in renewable energy sources in order to combat climate change.” (This sentence argues for government investment by highlighting its purpose – combating climate change.)
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Problem-Solution Essay: “Stricter regulations are needed in order to reduce air pollution in urban areas.” (This sentence proposes a solution – stricter regulations – and clearly states its purpose – reducing air pollution.)
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Advantages and Disadvantages Essay: “While tourism can boost local economies, it’s important to manage it sustainably in order to protect natural environments.” (This sentence acknowledges an advantage of tourism while also suggesting a way to mitigate potential drawbacks.)
Mastering “In Order To”
Structure and Grammar
The structure of “in order to” is simple:
[Clause 1] + in order to + [verb (base form)] + [rest of clause 2]
Example:
- Many people are moving to cities in order to seek better job opportunities.
Breakdown:
- Clause 1: Many people are moving to cities
- Purpose connector: in order to
- Verb (base form): seek
- Rest of Clause 2: better job opportunities.
Usage in IELTS Writing
“In order to” is incredibly versatile and can be used in various parts of your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays:
- Introducing solutions: “In order to tackle unemployment, the government could offer incentives for small businesses.”
- Explaining reasons: “Many students choose online courses in order to have more flexibility in their studies.”
- Expressing consequences: “International cooperation is essential in order to address global challenges effectively.”
Elevating Your Writing for a Higher Band Score
- Formal Tone: “In order to” is more formal than using “to” alone, making your writing more suitable for the academic tone required in IELTS.
- Complex Sentence Structures: Using “in order to” allows you to create more complex and sophisticated sentences, demonstrating your grammatical range.
- Clearer Communication: By explicitly stating the purpose, you ensure your ideas are communicated with clarity and precision.
Examples of “In Order To” in IELTS Writing
Topic: The increasing use of technology in the classroom.
Sample Sentence: “In order to fully engage students in the digital age, educators must integrate technology effectively into their teaching methods.”
Analysis:
- The sentence argues for the effective integration of technology in education.
- “In order to” clarifies the purpose of this integration – to fully engage students in today’s digital world.
Topic: The challenges of living in a rapidly changing world.
Sample Sentence: “Individuals must be adaptable and willing to learn new skills in order to thrive in the face of constant change.”
Analysis:
- The sentence emphasizes the importance of adaptability and continuous learning.
- “In order to” connects these qualities to the goal of thriving in a constantly evolving environment.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
- Incorrect Verb Form: Always use the base form of the verb after “in order to.”
- Incorrect: She studied hard in order to getting a good grade.
- Correct: She studied hard in order to get a good grade.
- Redundancy: Avoid using “in order to” unnecessarily, especially when “to” suffices.
- Wordy: He went to the store in order to buy milk.
- Concise: He went to the store to buy milk.
Conclusion
“In order to” is a valuable tool for expressing purpose and enhancing your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. By understanding its structure, usage, and how it can elevate your writing, you can communicate your ideas more effectively and aim for a higher band score. Remember to use it strategically, paying attention to grammar and avoiding redundancy.