The phrase “people often claim that” is a common sight in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays, especially when you’re tasked with discussing public opinions or common beliefs. But is using it enough to secure a high band score? This guide will delve into the use of this phrase, its variations, and how to wield it effectively to boost your writing prowess.
For instance, imagine you encounter this IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
“Some people believe that the government should invest more in public transportation, while others think that it is a waste of money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
A sentence like “People often claim that investing in public transportation is a waste of money because it requires significant government spending” could be a strong starting point. Notice how it directly addresses the prompt and sets the stage for discussing contrasting viewpoints.
Understanding “People Often Claim That”
This phrase serves as a powerful tool to introduce generally held beliefs or opinions without attributing them to a specific source. It’s particularly useful in Task 2 essays where you’re expected to showcase your ability to present and analyze different perspectives.
Why is it relevant for IELTS?
Using phrases like “people often claim that” demonstrates your grasp of:
- Lexical Resource: You’re showcasing a range of vocabulary beyond simple verbs like “say” or “think.”
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The structure allows you to embed reported speech seamlessly into your sentences.
- Coherence and Cohesion: It helps link your ideas logically and present arguments in a structured manner.
Constructing Your Sentences: The Formula
While “people often claim that” is effective, varying your language is key to achieving a higher score. Here’s a breakdown:
Basic Structure:
[People/ Individuals/ Critics] + [Adverb of Frequency/ Certainty] + [Reporting Verb] + [that] + [Reported Statement].
Let’s break down each component:
- People/Individuals/Critics: You can substitute “people” with more specific nouns depending on the context. For example, “economists often argue that” or “environmentalists frequently assert that.”
- Adverb of Frequency/Certainty: Words like “often,” “sometimes,” “generally,” “commonly,” “widely,” add nuance to the claim’s acceptance.
- Reporting Verbs: Experiment with verbs like “argue,” “assert,” “believe,” “contend,” “maintain,” “suggest,” or “posit” instead of always relying on “claim.”
Example:
- Basic: People often claim that technology makes us less social.
- Advanced: Social scientists have widely argued that excessive reliance on technology can lead to social isolation.
Putting it into Practice: IELTS Writing Task 2
Here’s how to integrate “people often claim that” and its variations effectively:
1. Introducing an Opinion:
- Prompt: Some people believe that space exploration is a waste of resources.
- Sentence: Critics often argue that allocating funds to space exploration diverts crucial resources from pressing earthly issues like poverty and climate change.
2. Presenting a Counterargument:
- Prompt: Is it more important to preserve traditional ways of life or embrace modernization?
- Sentence: While some individuals contend that modernization inevitably leads to the erosion of cultural identity, others maintain that it is possible to strike a balance between progress and tradition.
3. Expressing a General Belief:
- Prompt: Discuss the impact of social media on interpersonal relationships.
- Sentence: It is widely believed that constant social media use can have detrimental effects on face-to-face interactions and lead to feelings of loneliness.
Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them
- Overuse: Don’t start every other sentence with “people often claim that.” Use it strategically to introduce different perspectives.
- Lack of Specificity: When possible, replace “people” with a more specific noun to make your writing more precise and impactful.
- Weak Verbs: Avoid constantly using “say” or “think.” Opt for stronger reporting verbs that better reflect the nuance of the opinion being presented.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of presenting general opinions is crucial for achieving a high band score in IELTS Writing Task 2. By incorporating phrases like “people often claim that” strategically and employing its variations, you can significantly enhance the sophistication and clarity of your arguments. Remember to practice this technique with various prompts and strive for variety in your language to make a lasting impression on the examiner.