LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2
Lexical Resource is one of the four key criteria used to assess your performance in IELTS Writing Task 2. It refers to your ability to use a wide range of vocabulary accurately, flexibly, and appropriately in your essay. To score Band 7 or higher, you need to demonstrate variety, precision, and collocation without frequent errors. Here’s a comprehensive strategy to boost your Lexical Resource.
1. Use a Wide Range of Vocabulary
The examiner looks for vocabulary variety. Instead of repeating the same words, use synonyms and paraphrases.
Example:
– Instead of saying “important” repeatedly, try: crucial, essential, significant, vital, key.
However, don’t just throw in complex words for the sake of it. They must fit naturally in context.
Tip: Make a list of synonyms for common IELTS topics like education, environment, health, government, technology, and crime.
LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2
2. Master Collocations
Collocations are word combinations that sound natural to native speakers (e.g., “make a decision,” “take responsibility”).
Using them correctly shows a high level of language competence.
Examples by topic:
– Education: pursue higher education, gain knowledge, acquire skills
– Environment: reduce carbon emissions, renewable energy sources, global warming
– Crime: commit a crime, break the law, face punishment
Tip: Learn topic-specific collocations and practice using them in sample essays.
LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2
3. Avoid Repetition
Avoid using the same word or phrase multiple times. Use variety and flexibility in word choice.
Bad example:
“Government should fund public transport. Government should also build more roads.”
Improved:
“The authorities should fund public transport and also invest in expanding the road infrastructure.”
Tip: Use pronouns and different expressions to keep your language fresh.
4. Use Precise Vocabulary
Precise words make your writing more effective and boost clarity.
Examples:
– Instead of “a bad situation,” write: a crisis, a dilemma, a major concern
– Instead of “a good idea,” write: a viable solution, a promising strategy, a practical measure
Tip: Read high-quality model essays and note the precise terms used.
LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2
5. Paraphrase the Task Prompt
In the introduction, don’t copy the question directly. Use your own words to rephrase it.
Example:
Question: “Many people think that children should start school at a very early age.”
Paraphrase: “It is often believed that enrolling children in academic institutions from a young age is beneficial.”
This demonstrates control over vocabulary and grammar early on.
6. Learn Formal Academic Vocabulary
IELTS Writing Task 2 requires a formal tone. Avoid informal expressions, slang, or contractions.
Avoid:
– Kids → Children
– A lot of → Numerous / A significant number of
– Can’t → Cannot
– Get → Obtain / Acquire / Receive
Tip: Use a vocabulary notebook to categorize formal synonyms and practice using them in context.
LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2
7. Use Advanced Structures and Word Forms
Demonstrate vocabulary range by using varied word forms (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs).
Examples:
– Develop (v) → Development (n), Developer (n), Developmental (adj)
– Responsible (adj) → Responsibility (n), Responsibly (adv)
Tip: Make vocabulary families and include them in your revision list.
8. Proofread for Accuracy
Even advanced vocabulary won’t help if used incorrectly. Errors can reduce your score.
Example: Saying “economic-friendly” instead of “eco-friendly” is incorrect, even if it sounds complex.
Tip: Leave 2–3 minutes to revise your essay and check vocabulary use.
LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2
To excel in the Lexical Resource criterion, aim for variety, precision, and appropriateness. Read extensively, build topic-wise vocabulary, and practice writing essays regularly. Avoid memorizing phrases blindly—understand them, and use them naturally. With consistent effort, your vocabulary skills will significantly improve, raising your overall band score in IELTS Writing Task 2.
LEXICAL RESOURCE IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2