HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
Writing a Task 2 main body paragraph for the IELTS exam requires clear organization, logical reasoning, and relevant examples to support your arguments. Here’s a step-by-step guide to structuring and writing a main body paragraph for a 600-word essay:
Step 1: Understanding the Question
Before writing, make sure you fully understand the task. For an IELTS Task 2 essay, you will be given a question that asks for your opinion or discusses a specific issue. The task will typically require you to:
1. Discuss both sides of an argument.
2. Provide your own opinion.
3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
4. Explain a problem and propose solutions.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
Step 2: Plan Your Response
Before you begin writing, outline your key points. Think about the argument you want to make and how you will structure your paragraph. Typically, each body paragraph will focus on one main point.
For example, if your essay is about the advantages and disadvantages of technology, one body paragraph might focus on the advantages of technology, while the next paragraph discusses the disadvantages.
Step 3: Structure of a Body Paragraph
A strong main body paragraph should follow a clear structure:
1. Topic Sentence (TS) – Introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
2. Explanation – Expands on the topic sentence by explaining the point more clearly.
3. Example – Supports your explanation with a real-life example or hypothetical situation.
4. Analysis – Analyzes why this example is relevant or significant in relation to the question.
5. Linking Sentence – Connects this paragraph to the next, or restates the point in relation to the question.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
Here’s an example breakdown:
Example Question:
Some people believe that government funding should be directed towards healthcare, while others think it should be used to improve education. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Main Body Paragraph 1 (Advantages of Funding Healthcare):
1. Topic Sentence:
Many argue that prioritizing government funding for healthcare is essential, especially considering the rising demand for medical services worldwide.
2. Explanation:
As populations grow and age, healthcare systems face increased pressure, leading to longer waiting times, underfunded hospitals, and shortages of medical professionals. By allocating more resources to healthcare, governments can ensure citizens have access to necessary treatments, improving overall public health.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
3. Example:
For instance, countries like Japan, which allocate a significant portion of their budget to healthcare, boast some of the highest life expectancy rates globally. A well-funded healthcare system ensures that citizens receive timely treatment, reducing the risk of preventable diseases and increasing quality of life.
4. Analysis:
This example illustrates that government investment in healthcare not only saves lives but also contributes to the economy by maintaining a healthier workforce. A population with fewer health problems is better able to work, support the economy, and reduce long-term healthcare costs.
5. Linking Sentence:
While healthcare is undeniably important, there are valid arguments for directing funds towards education as well.
Main Body Paragraph 2 (Advantages of Funding Education):
1. Topic Sentence:
On the other hand, others believe that investing in education provides long-term benefits that outweigh those of healthcare funding.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
2. Explanation:
Education is the foundation for personal and societal development. By improving educational systems, governments can create a more skilled and informed workforce, drive economic growth, and address issues such as unemployment.
3. Example:
For example, countries with strong education systems, such as Finland, consistently rank among the highest in terms of innovation and economic prosperity. Finland’s focus on high-quality education has contributed significantly to its strong economy and social well-being.
4. Analysis:
Investing in education is an investment in the future, as a well-educated population can adapt to changing job markets, contribute to technological advancements, and make informed decisions that benefit society as a whole.
5. Linking Sentence:
Ultimately, while both education and healthcare are vital, I believe that a balanced approach that addresses both sectors equally is the most effective strategy.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
Step 4: Keep Your Writing Balanced
In your body paragraphs, make sure you address both sides of the issue (if the task requires it) and explain your reasoning logically. Each point should be supported with examples and analysis, as shown in the above paragraphs.
Step 5: Word Count Management
Since you’re aiming for a 600-word essay, your two main body paragraphs should take up around 300-350 words in total, leaving room for an introduction and conclusion. Each paragraph should be around 150-175 words. If you’re writing longer essays, you can expand each body paragraph with more detailed examples or explanations.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
Step 6: Check and Revise
After writing, review your paragraph for coherence, grammar, and clarity. Make sure your arguments are well-supported with examples, and your ideas flow logically from one to the next.
By following this structure and ensuring clarity, your Task 2 essay will be well-organized and persuasive, giving you the best chance of achieving a high score.
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH
HOW TO WRITE A TASK 2 MAIN BODY PARAGRAPH