How Can I Effectively Use Non-Defining Relative Clauses to Boost My IELTS Score?

Non-defining relative clauses are a great way to add extra information to your sentences and show off your grammatical range in the IELTS exam. Let’s explore how they work and how they can be used effectively in your writing and speaking.

For example:

• The IELTS exam, which tests four English language skills, is taken by millions of people each year. (This sentence provides additional information about the IELTS exam.)
• My English teacher, who has been teaching for over 10 years, gave me some great tips for the IELTS. (This sentence provides additional information about my English teacher.)
• London, where I studied for my IELTS, is a vibrant and multicultural city. (This sentence provides additional information about London.)

As you can see, these clauses add interesting details without making the sentence grammatically incomplete. They are separated by commas, signaling to the reader that the information within the clause is extra.

Understanding Non-Defining Relative Clauses in IELTS

In the IELTS exam, using a variety of complex grammatical structures correctly contributes to a higher band score. Non-defining relative clauses, while seemingly small, demonstrate your mastery of advanced grammar and can elevate your writing and speaking. They are particularly useful in the writing section, where you are expected to use a range of complex sentences.

The Formula and Application of Non-Defining Relative Clauses

Here’s the basic structure:

Main Clause + , + Relative Pronoun + Verb + Optional Information + ,

Let’s break it down:

1. Main Clause: This is the main part of the sentence that can stand alone.
2. Comma ( , ): A comma always comes before a non-defining relative clause.
3. Relative Pronoun (who, whom, whose, which, where, when): These words introduce the relative clause and refer back to the noun in the main clause.
   • Who/Whom: Used for people (e.g., The woman, who is wearing a red dress, is my neighbor.)
   • Whose: Used to show possession (e.g., The student, whose book I borrowed, got a high score on the exam.)
   • Which: Used for things or ideas (e.g., The new phone, which has a great camera, was very expensive.)
   • Where: Used for places (e.g., The café, where we first met, has closed down.)
   • When: Used for times (e.g., I remember the day when I got my IELTS results.)
4. Verb: This is the verb that agrees with the subject of the relative clause.
5. Optional Information: You can add more information to the relative clause to make it more detailed.
6. Comma ( , ): A comma usually comes after a non-defining relative clause.

Applying Non-Defining Relative Clauses in IELTS Writing and Speaking

Here are some examples of how to use non-defining relative clauses in your IELTS Writing and Speaking:

IELTS Writing Task 2:
“Many people believe that technology has made our lives easier. However, others argue that it has also created new problems. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

Example Sentence:

“One significant benefit of technology is the internet, which provides instant access to vast amounts of information, has revolutionized the way we learn and work.”

IELTS Speaking Part 2:

Describe a time you visited a new place.

Example Sentence:

“Last summer, I went to Tokyo, which is known for its bustling streets and delicious food, and I was completely blown away by the city’s energy.”

Tokyo Cityscape

Mastering Non-Defining Relative Clauses for a Higher Band Score

To really impress the IELTS examiner, try using non-defining relative clauses to:

• Vary your sentence structure: Using a mix of simple and complex sentences makes your writing and speaking more interesting.
• Add specific details: Instead of just stating facts, use non-defining relative clauses to provide more context and information.
• Demonstrate your grammatical range: The correct use of non-defining relative clauses showcases your advanced understanding of English grammar.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Comma placement: Remember that non-defining relative clauses are always separated by commas.
• Using ‘that’ instead of ‘who’ or ‘which’: In non-defining relative clauses, ‘that’ is not used.
• Incorrect pronoun agreement: Make sure the pronoun in the relative clause agrees with the noun it refers to in the main clause.

For example:

Incorrect: My parents, that live in France, are visiting next month.
Correct: My parents, who live in France, are visiting next month.

Conclusion

By mastering the use of non-defining relative clauses, you can significantly enhance your IELTS writing and speaking, showcasing your ability to use a wider range of grammatical structures accurately and effectively. Remember to practice incorporating them into your writing and speaking practice to build your confidence.