As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I often see students struggle with using articles, especially “some,” in their writing. While it might seem insignificant, using “some” correctly can significantly impact your grammar and overall band score. This article delves into the question of “why add ‘some’ in front of numbers in IELTS Writing,” equipping you with the knowledge to use this seemingly simple word effectively.
Understanding the Role of “Some”
“Some” is an indefinite article used to indicate an unspecified quantity or number. Unlike “a” or “an,” which refer to a single item, “some” suggests a plural quantity without being specific about the exact amount.
When to Use “Some” Before Numbers
In IELTS writing, you use “some” before numbers in the following situations:
1. Approximate Numbers
When you want to indicate an approximate number, using “some” is appropriate.
- Example: “Some 30% of the respondents agreed with the statement.”
In this example, “some” implies that the percentage is not precisely 30%, but rather an estimation close to that figure.
2. Large, Uncountable Nouns
When dealing with large numbers that are difficult to quantify, especially with uncountable nouns, “some” proves useful.
- Example: “The project required some considerable investment from the government.”
Here, “some” conveys that the investment was significant without specifying the exact amount.
3. Creating a Neutral Tone
Using “some” can create a more neutral tone compared to using specific numbers.
- Example: “Some people believe that technology has made our lives easier.”
This statement presents a balanced viewpoint, acknowledging that not everyone shares the same opinion.
Illustrative Examples from IELTS Writing
Let’s examine how “some” functions in actual IELTS writing scenarios:
Task 1: “The graph shows the percentage of people who used public transport in a certain city over a period of 10 years.”
- Possible sentence: “The graph indicates that some 40% of the population relied on public transport in 2005.”
Task 2: “Some people believe that children should have the freedom to choose their own career paths. Others argue that parents should guide their children in this decision. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
- Possible sentence: “While some parents believe their experience gives them valuable insight, others recognize the importance of allowing children to pursue their passions.”
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Tips for Effective Usage
- Context is Key: Always consider the context and whether using “some” clarifies the meaning or adds a nuanced perspective.
- Avoid Overuse: While helpful, don’t overuse “some.” Use specific numbers when clarity is paramount.
- Practice Makes Perfect: Regularly practice incorporating “some” appropriately in your writing to improve fluency and accuracy.
Conclusion
Mastering the use of “some” might seem like a small victory, but it contributes significantly to achieving a higher band score in the IELTS writing test. Remember to focus on clarity, appropriate tone, and accurate grammar to impress the examiners with your command of the English language. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!