Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
You don’t have to be a writer to write a good essay. This task may look even harder than the report, but it is only a first impression. Just follow the rules, keep the right structure, use some “smart” words and practice a little. This way you can easily reach a level, where no matter what topic they give you.
Structure
Every essay should have this exact structure: introduction, body and conclusion.
It is very important because your grade is affected by it. The introduction usually takes one paragraph, the body – two or three paragraphs and the conclusion – one paragraph.
Essay topics – 3 different kinds
There are only 3 kinds of essay topics in IELTS, let’s call them A, H, S.
Topic type “A” presents an Argument and you need to explore pros and cons, reasons for and against, while you support only one side.
Topic type “H” present a Hidden argument. These topics usually ask “To what extent …?”, “In what way…?”, “How has something changed…?”
Topic type “S” present a Situation and you need to explore reasons why it is what it is, assume what will happen in the future and suggest solutions to problems, if required.
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
The following examples demonstrate the differences between topics of A, H or S kind:
A: “Modern society benefits greatly from computer technology. However, becoming more dependent on computers has its disadvantages. Discuss the threats of computers.” Here the 2 sides of the argument are the advantages and disadvantages of computers.
H: “To what extent should television participate in our children’s education?” What they really ask here is whether the television should educate the children or not.
S: “As a result of tourism many unique places in the world are being damaged or even destroyed. Why is this happening? What are some possible solutions to this problem?” Here you can see the description of a situation and you have to write what you think about it.
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
Essay of A(rgument) kind
1. The introduction paragraph must clearly state the argument, both sides of it. Do not simply copy the topic from the instructions, write it in other words. Don’t give your opinion, save it for later.
2. Body paragraphs (at least 2) must refer to each side of the argument. Write the first paragraph about the side you disagree with. The side you do agree with should be in the last body paragraph, because this way it naturally leads to the conclusion.
3. The conclusion paragraph should contain a summary of the points you were making. Never mind if the paragraph turns out to be short, the important thing is that you kept the structure of the essay.
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
Essay of H(idden Argument) kind
1. The introduction paragraph must define the question. You need to reveal the hidden argument. Rewrite the topic, so it will say what it really means:
from “to what extent something affects…?” to “Does something affect…?”
from “in what way something contributes?” to “does something contribute?”
from “how does something influence…?” to “does something influence …?
Now it is an argument with two sides, and you write an essay of kind “A”.
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
Essay of S(ituation) kind
1. The introduction paragraph must state the situation and explain it. Don’t give your opinion here.
2. Body paragraphs (at least 2) should describe reasons that have led to the situation being like it is now. Each paragraph should talk about one reason.
3. The conclusion paragraph should summarize the key points of the essay. If the task requires suggesting a solution to a problem, recommendations, advice – this is the place for it. If your opinion is required – you should also give it in the conclusion paragraph.
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
General suggestions
• Write on the given topic directly, don’t slide to another theme.
• Write in general, not about your personal experiences, but about what is going on in the world.
• Read the task instructions and write about every little thing that is requested. If the task requires suggesting a solution – do it. Don’t forget to give recommendations or advice, if requested.
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay
Tips for Writing Task 2 – Essay