Start Writing Complex IELTS Sentences | Band 9 Grammar

Summary

In this video, Asiya explains how to transform simple sentences into complex ones for higher IELTS writing scores. She emphasizes the importance of using a variety of complex grammatical structures to achieve Band 7 and above. Asiya demonstrates techniques like using linking words, relative clauses, and adding elements of doubt to enhance sentence complexity. By applying these strategies, students can create more nuanced and sophisticated responses. She also highlights the importance of accuracy and punctuation for higher scores, offering practical examples to help learners improve their writing.

Takeaways

• 😀 Complex sentences are essential for scoring well in the IELTS writing exam, especially for achieving Band 7 or higher.
• 😀 To score Band 7, you need a variety of complex grammatical structures and the correct use of punctuation.
• 😀 A simple sentence like 'Students do not want to study science' can be transformed into more complex sentences using various structures and linking words.
• 😀 Using 'rather than' is a simple way to enhance sentence complexity, e.g., 'Some students choose to study business or law rather than science.'
• 😀 For Band 7, it's crucial to include dependent clauses using linking words like 'because', 'although', and 'until'.
• 😀 Proper punctuation is key when using complex sentences, especially when introducing dependent clauses in the middle or at the beginning of a sentence.
• 😀 Relative clauses with 'who', 'which', or 'that' can add more details and elevate a sentence to a complex level.
• 😀 When using relative clauses, commas are necessary if the clause provides non-essential information (e.g., 'which may be considered less prestigious').
• 😀 In sentences with relative clauses that change the meaning of the sentence, such as 'Some students who are bright and ambitious...', no commas are used.
• 😀 To achieve Band 9, sentences should include modal verbs like 'may', and more precise language to add elements of doubt or possibility, e.g., 'may choose', 'often paid less'.

Q & A

Why are complex sentences important in IELTS writing?

Complex sentences are crucial for achieving higher band scores in IELTS writing, especially for grammar. To reach a band 6 or higher, it's necessary to use a mix of simple and complex sentences. Band 7 requires a variety of complex grammatical structures, while Band 8 or 9 demands a wide range of these structures.

What is the difference between simple and complex sentences in the context of IELTS writing?

A simple sentence contains only one independent clause, whereas a complex sentence includes one independent clause and at least one dependent clause. Complex sentences are more advanced and essential for higher IELTS scores.

How can you convert a simple sentence into a complex one?

To turn a simple sentence into a complex one, you can add a dependent clause with linking words such as 'because,' 'although,' or 'until.' This adds additional information and depth to the sentence.

What are relative clauses, and how do they help in improving sentences for IELTS writing?

Relative clauses provide additional information about a noun and are introduced by 'who,' 'which,' or 'that.' They help make sentences more informative and complex, which is beneficial for IELTS writing. For example, 'Some students who are bright and ambitious choose business or law.'

When should you use commas with relative clauses?

Commas should be used around relative clauses when they add non-essential information to the sentence. If the sentence meaning is clear without the relative clause, you should use commas. If removing the clause makes the sentence unclear, no commas are needed.

What is the purpose of adding uncertainty with words like 'may' or 'often' in complex sentences?

Adding uncertainty, such as 'may' or 'often,' makes the sentence more nuanced and accurate. This helps to avoid stating something definitively when it's not always true, which can elevate the complexity of the sentence.

How can you add precision to your writing using complex sentences?

You can add precision by combining different types of complex sentences, such as relative clauses and conditional clauses, to specify exactly what you mean without overgeneralizing. For example, 'Some students may choose business or law because scientists are often paid less.'

What is the role of punctuation in complex sentences, particularly with linking words?

Punctuation plays a crucial role in complex sentences. Generally, if the dependent clause is at the beginning of the sentence, commas are needed. However, when the dependent clause comes after the main clause, commas are often not necessary unless the linking word is 'although.'

What is a Band 7, 8, or 9 sentence in IELTS writing?

A Band 7 sentence in IELTS writing should demonstrate grammatical accuracy and a variety of complex structures. A Band 8 or 9 sentence is characterized by a wide range of complex structures, with no grammatical mistakes, and possibly added precision or nuance.

What is the benefit of merging different types of complex sentences into one?

Merging different types of complex sentences allows you to create highly sophisticated sentences that are grammatically correct, nuanced, and informative. This is essential for achieving higher band scores, as it shows the examiner your ability to manipulate language effectively.