IELTS FREE LESSON

Writing Task 2

IELTS tests a combination of skills such as strategy, critical thinking, language and knowledge. Two of the areas I often see students struggling with are writing and speaking. 

There are five different essay types in writing task 2. These are:

  • Opinion Essays (agree or disagree)

  • Double Question Essays

  • Discussion Essays

  • Advantages and Disadvantages Essays

  • Problem and Solution Essays (causes and solutions)

 

Here is a free lesson on structuring an Opinion Essay for writing task 2 in IELTS:

 

The question for these types of essays will usually consist of the words opinion, or agree or disagree.

  • What is your opinion?

  • To what extent do you agree or disagree?

  • Do you agree or disagree?

  • To what extent do you agree?

Here is an example question:

  • With an increased demand in oil and gas, undiscovered or protected areas should be opened up to access more resources.

  • To what extent do you agree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant experience from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words

 

In my opinion, the biggest mistake I see from students is that they don’t choose which opinion they will write about. Instead of trying to write about both sides in these types of essays, just choose whether you agree or not, then only write about why you agree or why you disagree. Not both. This way, your essay will be both easier for you to write, and easier to read for the examiner. It’s also a clear and organised way to write. 

Another mistake is that students are not clear with their reasons. Quite often students will add many points to their essay, but will notdevelop these points properly. Instead, add less points, but develop the points you choose with lot’s of supporting information as to why you think this.

 

The structure for your essay should look like this:

Introduction

  • Paraphrase the question. Try to imagine you are introducing the question to the reader

  • State two supporting reasons

Body Paragraph One

  • The first reason why you support this view

  • A detailed explanation

  • Some examples

Body Paragraph Two

  • The second reason why you support this view

  • A detailed explanation

  • Some examples

Conclusion

  • Summarise and restate (paraphrase) your supporting reasons

  • Give your opinion

This is just one of the many strategies I will teach you for your IELTS preparation.

If you liked this simple, easy to follow sample, please click the link below and get in contact to discuss course options.