“It affirms that” is a phrase that many IELTS test-takers believe will instantly boost their Lexical Resource score. While it can add a formal tone to your writing, it’s not a magic formula for a high band score. Let’s delve into when and how to use “it affirms that” effectively, along with its synonyms, to truly enhance your IELTS writing.
For example:
- The recent surge in online learning affirms that technology is rapidly changing the educational landscape. (This sentence uses “affirms that” to introduce a statement supported by evidence.)
- The report’s findings affirm the importance of early childhood education. (Here, “affirm” acts as a verb meaning “to confirm” or “to support.”)
- The government’s commitment to renewable energy sources affirms its dedication to environmental sustainability. (In this case, “affirms” emphasizes the strength and certainty of the government’s commitment.)
As you can see, “affirm” and “it affirms that” can be used in various contexts to convey the strength of an idea or to express confirmation of a fact.
Understanding “It Affirms That”
“It affirms that” is used to introduce a statement that confirms or supports a previously mentioned point. “it” acts as a dummy pronoun, referring back to the evidence or argument already presented.
Here’s a breakdown:
- It: Dummy pronoun
- Affirms: Verb meaning to assert strongly as true
- That: Introduces the confirming statement
This structure is often found in academic writing and formal reports. However, using it repeatedly without proper context can make your writing sound unnatural and forced.
Using “It Affirms That” Effectively in IELTS Writing
Frequency in IELTS
“It affirms that” and similar phrases are not particularly common in IELTS. While they might appear in Reading passages, using them excessively in Writing Task 2 essays can seem out of place if not integrated naturally.
Sentence Structure and Grammar
“It affirms that” + a clause (subject + verb)
Example: The increasing number of electric cars on the road affirms that consumer interest in sustainable transportation is growing.
Writing Task 2 Applications
Let’s consider how to integrate “it affirms that” into an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay:
Topic: Some people believe that the government should invest heavily in public transportation. Others argue that private car ownership should be encouraged. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Example:
While private car ownership offers convenience, it affirms that investing in public transportation yields broader societal benefits. Efficient and affordable public transport systems reduce traffic congestion, thereby decreasing air pollution and improving overall quality of life in urban areas.
In this example, “it affirms that” effectively links the argument for public transport to its positive consequences.
Alternative Phrases for Higher Band Scores
To demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, consider these alternatives:
- This clearly demonstrates that…
- This provides evidence that…
- It is evident that…
- It is clear that…
- The data supports the notion that…
These phrases achieve a similar effect while avoiding repetition and showcasing greater lexical flexibility.
Common Errors and How to Avoid Them
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Incorrect Pronoun Reference: Ensure “it” clearly refers to the preceding idea.
Incorrect: People are spending more time on social media. It affirms that technology is addictive. (Unclear what “it” refers to)
Correct: The increasing amount of time people spend on social media affirms that technology can be addictive.
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Overuse: Using “it affirms that” repeatedly sounds repetitive and unnatural. Vary your language.
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Informal Context: Avoid this phrase in informal writing, such as IELTS General Training letters.
Conclusion
While “it affirms that” can add a formal touch to your IELTS writing, it’s crucial to use it judiciously and accurately. Remember to:
- Use it sparingly and in appropriate contexts.
- Ensure clear pronoun reference.
- Demonstrate a range of vocabulary by using synonyms.
By focusing on clarity, accuracy, and variety in your language, you can achieve a high Lexical Resource score without relying on overused phrases. Practice integrating “it affirms that” and its alternatives into your writing to build confidence and fluency.