Lesson 20: Academic Expressions & Formal Vocabulary for Writing

To achieve a high score in IELTS Writing Task 2 or Academic Writing Task 1, you need to use formal vocabulary and academic expressions. These help you sound more professional and demonstrate a strong command of the English language. In this lesson, we’ll explore formal vocabulary, academic phrases, and tips for using them effectively in your writing.

Why Use Formal Vocabulary and Academic Expressions?

  1. Demonstrates Proficiency: Formal language shows that you can write at an advanced level.
  2. Improves Task Achievement: Using precise and formal vocabulary helps you address the task more effectively.
  3. Boosts Lexical Resource Score: A wide range of formal vocabulary and academic phrases can help you score higher in Lexical Resource.
  4. Enhances Coherence: Academic expressions often help you structure your arguments more clearly.

Tips for Using Formal Vocabulary

  1. Avoid Contractions: Use “do not” instead of “don’t” and “cannot” instead of “can’t.”
  2. Use Passive Voice: Passive voice is more common in formal writing (e.g., “It is believed that…”).
  3. Avoid Informal Words: Replace words like “get,” “stuff,” and “big” with more formal alternatives (e.g., “obtain,” “items,” “significant”).
  4. Use Precise Vocabulary: Choose words that convey your meaning exactly (e.g., “detrimental” instead of “bad”).
  5. Practice Paraphrasing: Rewrite sentences using formal synonyms and academic phrases.

Formal Vocabulary for Common IELTS Topics

1. Education

  • Acquire knowledge: Gain information or skills.
    Example: “Students acquire knowledge through both theoretical and practical methods.”
  • Academic achievement: Success in educational pursuits.
    Example: “Parental support plays a crucial role in children’s academic achievement.”
  • Curriculum development: The process of improving educational programs.
    Example: “Curriculum development should focus on both traditional and modern skills.”
  • Lifelong learning: Continuous learning throughout life.
    Example: “Lifelong learning is essential in today’s rapidly changing world.”
  • Formal education: Structured education provided by institutions.
    Example: “Formal education is often complemented by informal learning experiences.”

2. Environment

  • Environmental degradation: The deterioration of the environment.
    Example: “Environmental degradation is a pressing issue that requires immediate action.”
  • Sustainable development: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations.
    Example: “Governments must prioritize sustainable development to protect natural resources.”
  • Climate change mitigation: Efforts to reduce the impact of climate change.
    Example: “Renewable energy is a key strategy for climate change mitigation.”
  • Ecological balance: A stable state of natural ecosystems.
    Example: “Deforestation disrupts the ecological balance of forests.”
  • Carbon emissions: The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
    Example: “Reducing carbon emissions is essential to combat global warming.”

3. Technology

  • Technological advancements: Improvements in technology.
    Example: “Technological advancements have revolutionized communication.”
  • Digital transformation: The integration of digital technology into all areas of life.
    Example: “Digital transformation has reshaped the way businesses operate.”
  • Automation of processes: Using machines to perform tasks.
    Example: “The automation of processes has increased efficiency in manufacturing.”
  • Data privacy: Protection of personal information.
    Example: “Data privacy is a major concern in the digital age.”
  • Innovative solutions: Creative answers to problems.
    Example: “Innovative solutions are needed to address global challenges.”

4. Health

  • Public health initiatives: Programs to improve community health.
    Example: “Public health initiatives have significantly reduced the spread of diseases.”
  • Preventive healthcare: Measures to prevent illnesses.
    Example: “Investing in preventive healthcare can reduce medical costs.”
  • Healthcare accessibility: The availability of medical services.
    Example: “Improving healthcare accessibility is crucial for rural populations.”
  • Mental well-being: Emotional and psychological health.
    Example: “Workplace policies should prioritize employees’ mental well-being.”
  • Epidemiological studies: Research on the spread of diseases.
    Example: “Epidemiological studies provide valuable insights into disease patterns.”

5. Society

  • Social cohesion: The unity of a society.
    Example: “Education promotes social cohesion by fostering mutual understanding.”
  • Economic disparity: Inequality in wealth distribution.
    Example: “Economic disparity is a major challenge in developing countries.”
  • Urban sprawl: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas.
    Example: “Urban sprawl leads to environmental and social problems.”
  • Cultural integration: The blending of different cultures.
    Example: “Cultural integration enriches societies by promoting diversity.”
  • Infrastructure development: Building and improving physical systems.
    Example: “Infrastructure development is essential for economic growth.”

Academic Expressions for Writing

1. Introducing Ideas

  • “It is widely believed that…”
  • “One of the most significant aspects of…”
  • “A growing body of evidence suggests that…”

2. Adding Information

  • “Furthermore, it is important to note that…”
  • “In addition to this,…”
  • “Moreover, recent studies have shown that…”

3. Contrasting Ideas

  • “On the other hand, some argue that…”
  • “However, this view is not without its critics.”
  • “Despite these advantages, there are also drawbacks.”

4. Expressing Cause and Effect

  • “This has led to a significant increase in…”
  • “As a result, many countries have implemented…”
  • “Consequently, the problem has become more severe.”

5. Concluding Ideas

  • “In conclusion, it is clear that…”
  • “To sum up, the evidence suggests that…”
  • “Overall, this issue requires a multifaceted approach.”

Practice Activity

  1. Rewrite Sentences: Replace informal language with formal vocabulary.
    • Original: “Kids should learn how to use computers.”
    • Rewritten: “Children should acquire digital literacy skills.”
  2. Write an Essay: Choose an IELTS Writing Task 2 topic and write a paragraph using at least 5 formal words and 2 academic expressions from this lesson.

By incorporating formal vocabulary and academic expressions into your writing, you can significantly improve your IELTS Writing score. Keep practicing to make your writing more polished and professional!