“It establishes that” is a phrase commonly used in academic writing, and while not overly complex, using it effectively can demonstrate a strong grasp of grammar and vocabulary for IELTS examiners. This phrase helps express that a piece of evidence, research, or argument proves a particular point. Let’s look at a few examples of how this phrase might be used across different IELTS Writing tasks:
Example 1 (Task 1 – Describing Trends):
“The graph illustrates a sharp increase in online sales between 2010 and 2020. It establishes that consumer behavior shifted significantly towards digital platforms during this period.”
In this example, “it establishes that” connects the observed trend (increasing online sales) with a conclusion (shift in consumer behavior).
Example 2 (Task 2 – Argumentative Essay):
“Many argue that standardized testing is an unfair assessment tool. It establishes that factors like socioeconomic background and access to resources play a significant role in a student’s performance, rather than their inherent intelligence.”
Here, the phrase emphasizes the argument against standardized testing by highlighting the influence of external factors.
Understanding “It Establishes That”
“It establishes that” is a formal expression indicating a cause-and-effect relationship. “It” usually refers to a previously mentioned piece of information, while “establishes” emphasizes the act of proving or confirming something definitively.
Frequency in IELTS
While not overly frequent, using “it establishes that” and similar phrases correctly can benefit your IELTS writing score. It demonstrates a wider vocabulary range and the ability to present arguments or analyze data effectively.
Using “It Establishes That” Effectively
Here’s the basic formula for using the phrase:
[Information/Evidence/Argument] + it establishes that + [Conclusion/Point Proven]
Applying it to IELTS Writing:
Task 1 (Report Writing):
- When describing trends, use “it establishes that” to connect the visual data to a conclusion: “The data shows a decline in newspaper readership. It establishes that traditional media is facing stiff competition from digital platforms.”
Task 2 (Essay Writing):
- When presenting arguments: “Studies have shown a correlation between early childhood education and improved social skills. It establishes that early intervention plays a crucial role in a child’s development.”
- When refuting opposing views: “Opponents argue that stricter gun control laws infringe upon personal liberties. However, research establishes that such laws significantly reduce gun violence incidents.”
Example in Context
Let’s imagine you are writing an essay about the benefits of learning a second language. You can use “it establishes that” to strengthen your argument:
“Research has shown that bilingual individuals often demonstrate enhanced cognitive abilities, including improved memory and problem-solving skills. It establishes that learning a second language not only benefits communication but also fosters crucial cognitive development.”
In this example, the phrase effectively links the research findings with the conclusion, strengthening the overall argument.
Elevating Your Language
To achieve a higher score, consider using synonyms or similar phrases for “it establishes that”:
- It demonstrates that…
- This proves that…
- It highlights the fact that…
- This confirms that…
- It underscores that…
Common Errors
- Vague pronoun reference: Ensure “it” clearly refers to the preceding information.
- Overuse: Avoid using the phrase repeatedly. Vary your language to maintain reader interest.
- Informal Language: “It establishes that” is formal and best suited for academic writing.
Conclusion
Mastering phrases like “it establishes that” can significantly improve the clarity and sophistication of your IELTS writing. Remember to use it strategically, ensuring clear pronoun referencing and varying your language. Practice incorporating this phrase and its synonyms in your writing to enhance your communication skills and boost your confidence for the IELTS exam!