IELTS Writing: Step by Step

Task 1 and 2: Academic and General Test

By Mike Wattie

1
About the author
I have been teaching English as a second language for over fifteen
years in Taiwan and Australia, in language centres and universities.
I have also been working as an IELTS examiner. My area of
specialization is teaching students how to pass the IELTS exam. I
particularly enjoy teaching IELTS because I find it challenging to
teach students the necessary skills and strategies that they need to
pass, and I also find that my students are highly motivated – this is
a joy for a teacher!

Acknowledgements
I would like to thank those responsible for their help in completing
this book. I sincerely thank Phil Biggerton for his time editing this
book. I would also like to thank some of my faithful students, Nhi
Phan, Andrey Polyakov, and Maria Gvozdeva, for providing valuable
feedback on this book. Thanks to all my past students as well, for
giving me the inspiration and desire to write this book.

Copyright
© Mike Wattie 2013
All Rights Reserved
No part of this book or any of its contents may be reproduced, copied, modified or adapted,
without the prior written consent of the author, unless otherwise indicated for stand-alone
materials.

2
Contents
1. Introduction to the IELTS Writing test ........................................................................ 5

2. Task 1: Academic Reports .......................................................................................... 8

2.1. Overview................................................................................................................. 9

2.2. Single time (static) task ......................................................................................... 19

2.3. Change over time task .......................................................................................... 32

2.4. Process diagram or flow chart ............................................................................... 43

2.5. Map or floor plan .................................................................................................. 50

2.6. Future period tasks ............................................................................................... 70

2.7. Vocabulary ............................................................................................................ 74

2.8. Sentence structures .............................................................................................. 77

2.9. Answers ................................................................................................................ 79

3. Task 1 General: Letters ............................................................................................ 81

3.1. Overview............................................................................................................... 82

3.2. Types of letters ..................................................................................................... 87

3.3. Requesting information ........................................................................................ 90

3.4. Giving information ................................................................................................ 93

3.5. Making a complaint: ............................................................................................. 96

3.6. Making an apology ................................................................................................ 99

3.7. Thanking someone .............................................................................................. 102

3.8. Useful language for letters .................................................................................. 105

3.9. Common errors................................................................................................... 106

4. Task 2: Essay Writing ............................................................................................. 115

4.1. Overview............................................................................................................. 116

4.2. Opinion essay...................................................................................................... 133

4.3. Model essay version 3: Outweigh........................................................................ 145

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4.4. Both sides and opinion essay .............................................................................. 149

4.5. Two question essay ............................................................................................. 164

4.6. Improving your score .......................................................................................... 175

4.7. Improving grammar ............................................................................................ 188

4.8. Vocabulary for common topics ........................................................................... 195

4
1. Introduction to the IELTS Writing test

For the writing test you are given one hour to complete two written tasks. The
key difference between the two versions of the test is for Task One. For the
General Test you are required to write a letter, whereas for the Academic Test
you are required to write a report. Task 2 is essentially the same for both
versions of the test, but for any given test day there will be separate tasks for
each version of the test. If you have the option it is most likely better to take
the General Test because preparing for a letter is much easier than preparing
how to write reports for the wide range of visual information which occur in
the tests.

General Academic
Task 1 Minimum 150 words Minimum 150 words
Write a formal semi-formal, Write a formal report to
or informal letter in interpret, describe, or
response to a situation. compare information

Task 2 Minimum 250 words

Write a formal style essay on a given topic in response to a
given question.

5
The three biggest mistakes when taking the IELTS writing exam
I have graded thousands of papers for the IELTS exam. The purpose of this article is to tell
you the three major mistakes that candidates keep making in order that you may avoid
them.

The first problem is poor time management. About 30% of my students who write IELTS
exams under timed conditions fail to complete both Task 1 and Task 2. In this case their
score for Task Response (one of the four grading criteria) is reduced, and to make matters
worse their score is penalized for being under length. Therefore, this is like a double penalty
and so you should make sure you can write sufficient words for both tasks by controlling
your time. This means 150 words for Task 1 and 250 words for Task 2.

The second problem is rushing to start the task without properly reading the question.
Again, also about 30% of my students will write an essay that is off-topic, which again not
only lowers their score for Task Response but also makes it difficult to score well in the
grading category of Cohesion and Coherence because often the essay does not make sense
to the reader who is looking for a response to the question. A common example of this is
with a question like “to what extent do you agree or disagree.” This requires YOUR opinion,
and therefore saying things like “some people believe that….” is off-topic, unless you state
whether you agree with them or not.

The final issue is the frequency of errors. Try to allow time to proofread what you have
written. In order to get above a six for vocabulary you may only produce occasional errors in
word choice, spelling and word formation. The biggest error is the singular/plural form of
words, so always check your nouns and verbs to see if they should have an “s” ending. For a
grammar score of 7 you must produce frequent error-free sentences. The most common
errors are with articles (a, an, the), so look at each noun and think about whether it needs
an article. In other words if you can proofread your writing and cut-down the number of
errors you stand a better chance of getting over the 6 hurdle for vocabulary and grammar.

6
How to Improve

In order to improve and score well in the exam I recommend you focus on the following
aspects:

1. Learn how the test is structured and graded

2. Learn skills to improve your answers

3. Practice skills

4. Do lots of practice tests.

5. Receive feedback on practice tests

6. Use the feedback to improve your answers

7
2. Task 1: Academic Reports
Model reports and how to write them!

8
 2.1. Overview
Writing Task 1 is designed to test your ability to explain information shown in a process
diagram, flow chart, line graph, bar graph, pie chart, table, map, or floor plan. You must
present the information in your own words as complete sentences within paragraphs. You
are required to write over 150 words, and the task should be completed in 20 minutes (both
part 1 and 2 must be finished in 1 hour). You are not asked to give opinions, make
assumptions, or draw conclusions about the information given. Note that most of the parts
of the task are standardised. For instance, you are always advised to spend about 20
minutes on the task and write at least 150 words. In addition you are always advised to
summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features.

Sample question: WRITING TASK 1

The graph below shows information about the activities that New Zealand and
Australian children enjoy doing the most in 2007.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and
make comparisons where relevant.

WhatChildrenenjoydoing

30%

25%

20%
15% Australians

10% New Zealanders

5%
0%
Art and Books Computer DVDs Going to Sports
craft games the park

9
Grading of tasks

Criteria Requirement

write over 150 words

Task Achievement satisfy all the requirements of the task
introduce the task (rephrase the question)
give a summary of the key features
highlight key features

sequence information and ideas logically

Coherence and Cohesion use paragraphing appropriately
make sure there is a clear progression throughout
use a range of cohesive devices appropriately
avoid unnecessary repetition of information

rephrase vocabulary to show your range of vocabulary

Lexical Resource use adverbs and adjectives to show precision
use less common lexical items
awareness of style and collocation
avoid errors with word formation
avoid errors with spelling
avoid errors with word choices

use a mix of simple and complex sentence forms

Grammatical Range and produce error-free sentences
Accuracy avoid errors with grammar and punctuation

Tip!
You will only achieve a high overall score by
focusing on all four criteria for the writing exam.

10
Types of tasks

Task one of the IELTS writing exam includes different types of tasks. The most common ones
are: tables, pie charts, bar charts, line graphs, process diagrams, flow charts, maps and floor
plans, which should all be looked at to be well prepared. Then, task one of the IELTS writing
exam can be separated into two key types. Static tasks, which are tasks that have only one
time period; and change over time tasks, which have two or more different time periods.
Finally, with task one of the IELTS writing exam, you need to use different types of language
depending on whether the task consists of numbers, percentages, or steps in a process.
Therefore, there are three key dimensions of task one of the IELTS writing exam:

type of task

Task Dimensions

type of data or visual information time periods

Tip!
Before you start writing, make sure you are very clear about
the type of task, whether the task is about numbers or
percentages, and whether the task involves a single time
period or many.

11
Thenamesofdifferenttypesoftasks

line graph Column/bar chart

Pie chart Table

Purchases %

DVDs 5%

Books 10%

Going out 15%

Transport 15%

Food 25%

Rent 30%

Process diagram Map

12
How to Improve
1. Learn how the test is structured and graded

2. Learn skills and language to improve your answers

3. Practice using the skills and language

4. Write lots of tasks.

Task Sequence for Writing: Academic Task 1:

You have about 20 minutes to complete this task. I recommend you spend
your time as follows:

1. Spend about 2 to 3 minutes analysing and planning the task

2. Spend about 14 to 15 minutes writing it

3. If you have time, spend a couple of minutes to check what you have
written.

Tip!
Before you go to your exam you should have a clear idea of the
steps you will follow to write your report.

13
Astep-by-stepapproach

1. Read the Task.

2. Paraphrase keywords in the task instructions.

3. Work out what information is given and what type of task it is.

4. Decide if this is a static (same time period) or change over time task.

5. Be clear about whether the data is about percentages or numbers.

4. Identify the highlights of the task. There should be about ten critical points
that should be mentioned for each task.

5. Work out the overall summary. There should be one or two key points that
must be mentioned for each task.

6. Plan the structure of the answer. Always look for ways the data can be
logically grouped into paragraphs.

7. Write your answer.

8. Proofread your answer if time permits.

14
Planning
It is essential that you make a solid plan before you start writing your report. This will make
sure that you cover all the key data, which helps you maximise your score for task
achievement. In addition, it will help you to organise your data logically, which will increase
your score for cohesion and coherence. Overall, you should spend about two or 3 minutes
making a plan. A few key aspects of this process are explained below.

Selecting data to include

When writing your report you are supposed to highlight the key data and not just list the
data. The Golden Rule to remember is that as the amount of data increases you must be
more selective when selecting it. You need about ten key points.

Tip!
Making a plan saves you time when you write your report and
ensures you cover all the key points using an appropriate
structure.

15
Static tasks
Usually with tasks that have a single time period (static tasks) you want to focus on numbers
that are the highest, lowest, or the same. The key data is circled in the table below to
illustrate this.

a. In the USA beef sales were thehighest at 220 grams.

b. In the United States pork sales were thelowest at only 100.

c. In the UK beef sales were themost at 240.

d. In the United Kingdom chicken sales were theleast at 120

e. In Canada the sales of beef Lamb and chicken wereallthesame.

f. The volume of pork sold in Canada, Australia and France wereidentical.

g. Chicken was thelowestsellingmeat in Australia

h. Lamb and chicken soldtheleast, in France, at only about 50 grams. i.

Theleastpopularmeat was chicken at 20 grams in Egypt.

j. InEgyptthemostpopularmeat was pork at 200 grams.

Note: you should connect some of these items together in sentences, so if we look at items
"i" and "j" we could write: In Egypt, theleastpopularmeat was chicken at 20 grams, and the
mostpopularmeat was pork at 200 grams

16
Change over time tasks
Usually with tasks that have multiple time periods (change over time tasks) you want to
focus on beginning numbers, peaks and low points, categories that overtake another
category, and ending numbers. The key data is shown in the line chart below to illustrate
this.

1. In 1979 about 220 grams of beef were sold.

2. The purchasing of beef peakedat less than 250 grams in 1984.

3. In 2004, beef consumption fellto around 120 grams.

4. At the beginning of the period lamb sales stoodat 150 grams.

5. The amount of lamb sold reachedalowpointof 50 grams in 1999.

6. At the end of the period lamb sales wereapproximately 60 grams.

7. Chicken sales startedoffat 100 grams.

8. Sales of chicken increased rapidly, and around 1985 they rosetoover 130 grams
overtaking the sales of lamb.

9. By the end of the period chicken sales hadfallentotheirlowestpoint at about 25 grams.

17
Combining data
Combining data of two or more categories is a way to reduce the total number of words you
need to write to make sure you can write a good task response in about 20 or so minutes
you have to write your report. In addition, it is a good way to write more complex sentences
to increase your score for grammar. Below is an example of how you can combine data. The
word respectively is a useful word.

Anexample:

Beef and lamb showed a similar significant downward trend throughout the period. Beef
and lamb started at 220 and 150 grams, respectively; and by the end of the period they
plunged to approximately 120 and 60 grams, respectively. Beef sales peaked at about 240
grams in 1984. Lamb reached a low point of about 50 grams in 1999.

Beef and Lamb Sales

300

250
200
grams

150 Beef

100

50
Lamb
0
1979 1984 1989 1994 1999 2004

Tip!
Combining data is especially useful; when you are given a lot
of data to enable you to complete the task on time.

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 2.2. Single time (static) task

Task Instructions

The IELTS static task is designed to test your ability to compare and contrast information
shown in a line graph, bar graph, pie chart, table, process diagram, or map (the last two
tasks will be covered in a separate section). You must present the information in your own
words as complete sentences within paragraphs. You are required to write over 150 words,
and the task should be completed in 20 minutes (both part 1 and 2 must be finished in 1
hour).

Requires

1 Past or present tense

2 Comparison vocabulary to describe differences and similarities of data

How to Improve

1 Do exercises to improve comparatives and superlatives for comparing data

2 Do exercises to use the correct language with numbers and percentages

3 Read sample questions and answers

4 Learn how to correctly structure a static task

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Useful language

Adjectives: Comparing and contrasting

A static task requires you to compare and contrast information, in order to achieve this it's
important to use comparatives and superlatives. The following provides guidelines on how
to form comparatives and superlatives.

All one syllable words and most two syllable words that end in “y” add er and est. All other
two syllables or more words need to use more and most. Refer to the chart below.

One syllable comparative superlative

cheap cheaper cheapest

large larger largest

Two syllables “y” comparative superlative

happy happier happiest

lucky luckier luckiest

Two syllables comparative superlative

common more common most common

modern more modern most modern

Note: There are also some exceptions, such as the ones below:

good better best

bad worse worst

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Exercise1:ComparativesandSuperlatives

Complete the table with the correct comparative and superlative forms [The answers are at
the back of this section of the book.]

word comparative superlative

1. accurate more accurate most accurate

2. certain

3. pretty

4. cool

5. correct

6. dangerous

7. easy

8. modern

9. funny

10. new

11. possible

12. probable

13. up-to-date

Tip!
Use comparatives and superlatives to compare data and increase
your score for task achievement. It also helps increase your score
for vocabulary.

21
Language with numbers and percentages
When writing your report you must carefully identify whether the information that is given
involves countable data (trees), uncountable data (water), or percentages (15%). This is
because the language used with the three types is different. If you use the incorrect
language the examiner will easily identify it and your vocabulary score will be lowered.

Countable numbers

The number of trees was 100.

The quantity of trees was 100.

Uncountable numbers

The amount of water used was 100 litres.

Percentages

The rate of water usage was 15 percent.

The proportionof water usage was 15%

The water usage was fifteenpercent.

The water usage increased by 15percent.

The percentagesof water usage (15%) and power usage (16%) were about the same.

The water usage and power usage were 15% and 16%, respectively.

22
Exercise2:Languagewithnumbersandpercentages

Circle the correct word. The answers are at the back of this section of the book.

1. The number/amount of cars was over 1,000.

2. The rate/number of electricity usage was 15 per cent.

3. The amount /percentage of power was 15%.

4. The number/amount of trains was 100.

5. The number/proportion of lamb consumed increased by 15 percent.

6. The percentage/amount of lamb (15%) and chicken (16%) were about the same.

7. The number/amount of beer consumed was 100 litres.

8. The proportion/amount of water usage and power usage were 15% and 16%,

respectively.

9. The number/percentage of apples was 10 on Fridays.

10. The number/amount of oil produced was 100 litres.

23
Steps to complete a static task:

1. Read and underline key vocabulary in the question and write words with the same or
related meaning.

2. Check whether the data is about percentages or numbers.

For percentages use: proportion, %, per cent, rate, one-third, two-thirds.

For numbers use: amount for uncountable nouns, number for countable nouns.

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer, look for the following:

Striking numbers/percentages (highest and lowest)

Comparisons (higher and lower data)

Similarities (the same)

Data that can be combined (similarities)

4. Identify the highlights of the task. There should be about 10 critical points that should be
mentioned for each task. They should be identified in your brainstorming above.

5. Work out the overall summary. There should be one or two key points that must be
mentioned.

6. Plan the structure of answer (how can the data be grouped).

7. Write the task.

8. Proofread the task.

24
Sample static task

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task

The graph below shows information about the activities that Australian and New
Zealand children enjoy doing the most in 2007.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words

WhatChildrenenjoydoing

30%

25%

20%

15%
10% Australians

5% New Zealanders

0%

25
Model answer:

The bar graph illustrates data about the favourite recreational pursuits of
children in two nations in 2007. Overall, Australians were more likely to do
outdoor activities, whereas New Zealanders were more involved in indoor
activities.

For Australian youths, the most popular activity was doing sporting activities,
which accounted for approximately 28%. Next, a quarter of Australians enjoyed
visiting parks. The third most popular leisure pursuits were video games and
watching movies, which both attracted 15%. The least popular activities were
reading, and art and craft, which accounted for about 10% and 7 %,
respectively.

Turning to the young New Zealanders, the highest proportion of young people
enjoyed doing art and craft, which accounted for 25% of them. This was
followed by reading books and watching movies, which each accounted for
roughly 17%. The proportion who played video games was only 15%. The least
popular were trips to the park and playing sports at 13%. [154 words]

Tip!
Note that the model answer above does not include a
conclusion. You are not required to write a conclusion for a
task 1 report.

26
Steps in planning the model task:

1. Read and underline key vocabulary in the question and write words with
the same or related meaning.

The graph below shows information about the activities that Australian and New Zealand

bar graph illustrates data recreational pursuits Australians New Zealanders

children enjoy doing the most in 2007.

youths favourite

2. Check whether the data is about percentages or numbers.

percentages

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer, look for the following:

1 = lowest % for Australians

2= highest % for New Zealanders

3= same % for Australians AND same % for both nationalities for computer games

4= highest % for Australians

5=same % for New Zealanders

Below are some additional points worth mentioning.

27
6= the second lowest % for Australians

7= the second to highest % for New Zealanders (for two categories)

8 = the second to highest % for Australians

4. Work out the overall summary. There should be one or two key points
that must be mentioned.
For this task it could be the highest and lowest percentage for each country. But even more
cleverly, it can be pointed out that Australians preferred outdoor activities and New
Zealanders preferred indoor ones. This is because the top two percentages for Australians
are both outdoor activities; and for New Zealanders the top two percentages are for indoor
activities.

5. Plan the structure of the answer (how can the data be grouped).
Introduction = rephrase of the task introduction + overall summary

Australians = highest to lowest percentages

New Zealanders = highest to lowest percentages

6. Write the task.

The model answer is written above.

28
Double Graph task

Often in the IELTS Task 1 academic exam you are given two charts. With two charts you can
structure the body of your report either with a paragraph for each chart or by the categories
of each chart. Each one has advantages. Structuring the essay with a paragraph about each
chart is an easy structure, and you have two clear body paragraphs. You focus mostly on the
highest and lowest figures of each chart and the comparison usually comes in the overall
summary. It is also quicker to write.

Structuring the essay by categories of the chart allows for more comparisons to be made
and can result in a better coverage of the data. It can be more difficult for the reader to see
your structure if it is not written carefully. It can be harder to get logical body paragraphs
and can just end in one big body paragraph. Getting logical separation of data has to be
done on a case by case basis depending on the data of the particular task. For instance a
paragraph could be written about the highest proportions and another one about the
lowest proportions only if the highest and lowest proportions are the same in each pie
graph.

I would pick ONE way, and always use this structure, so that you have it perfected before
your exam. If your goal is 7 the safest way is by pie, but if you really want to get to 8 it could
be worth the risk of going by category. Examples of both ways of writing the task are given
below.

Tip!
Develop habits for writing each type of task. These habits will
help you speed up your writing, so you can finish on time in
the exam.

29
 The graphs below show a comparison of the weekly expenses in the UK and the US.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Model answer by category

[In the model report written below the structure is by category. One paragraph has the categories which have
a different percentage in each country, and the other paragraph has the categories which are the same in both
contracts.]

The pie charts compare weekly expenses of the six most common categories in
America and United Kingdom. Overall, it is obvious from the charts that
spending on rent accounted for the largest proportion in the UK, whilst in the
United States it was food. In addition, expenditures on DVDs were the lowest in
both of the nations.

It is clear from the pie charts that the proportion of expenditures varied for
most categories. Rent accounted for a high proportion in both countries at 30%
and 20% of the weekly spending in Great Britain and the USA, respectively.
Americans spent a significantly higher proportion on food and books, which
accounted for 25% and 15% of their weekly expenses, respectively. However,
British spent only 18% and 12% on food and books.

Turning to items that both nations spent an equal proportion on, the
expenditure for transportation, going out for entertainment, and on DVDs were
the same proportion. People in both countries spent 15% of their weekly budget
on transport and also on visiting places. The rate of spending on DVDs was
slightly lower at 10%. [184 words]

30
Model answer by pie chart
[In the model answer below the structure is by pie charts. One paragraph describes the first pie chart and the
second one describes the second pie chart.]

The pie charts compare weekly expenses of the six most common categories in
America and United Kingdom. Overall, it is obvious from the charts that
spending on rent accounted for the largest proportion in the UK, whilst in the
United States it was food. In addition, expenditures on DVDs were the lowest in
both of the nations.

In Britain the highest proportion was spent on accommodation, which

accounted for 30%. Food was the second highest item of expense at 18%. The
British spent exactly the same proportion on going out for entertainment and
transportation [15%]. The lowest item of expenditure was DVDs at 10%.

Turning to America, groceries accounted for the highest proportion of

expenditure at 25%. Transportation entertainment and reading materials each
accounted for exactly fifteen per cent. As was the case in the UK, the lowest
proportion was spent on DVDs, with the same percentage of 10%.

[151 words]

31
 2.3. Change over time task

Task Instructions
The IELTS change over time task is designed to test your ability to explain information during
different time periods shown in a line graph, bar graph, pie chart, table, process diagram,
or map (the last two tasks will be covered in a separate section). You must present the
information in your own words as complete sentences within paragraphs. You are required
to write over 150 words, and the task should be completed in 20 minutes (both part 1 and 2
must be finished in 1 hour).

Requires
1 Past tense and sometimes future tense

2 Verb and noun phrases to describe trends

3 Verbs and nouns to describe data levels

4 Prepositions for time and data

How to Improve
1 Do exercises to improve the grammar and vocabulary to complete this kind of task

2 Read sample questions and answers

3 Learn how to correctly structure a change over time task

4 Practice writing change over time tasks

5 Receive feedback on practice tests

6 Use the feedback to improve your answers

32
Describing Trends:

Noun phrases
an increase a decrease at a similar level a a fluctuation

a surge a decline steady trend an oscillation

a rise a drop maintained stability

a jump a tumble a period of stability

a leap a plunge

Verb phrases
increased decreased stabilized fluctuated

surged declined remained unchanged oscillated

rose plunged remained static

soared tanked stayed the same

rocketed sunk

33
Describing specific points
a peak (noun)

peaked (verb)

a low point (noun)

a nadir (noun)

was overtaken by
(verb)

overtook (verb)

34
Sentence structure
For a change over time task you should use the past tense and you should try to modify
nouns with adjectives and verbs with adverbs to improve the precision of your task, which
will improve your score for task response as well as for vocabulary.

Pasttense:

Was + adj + NOUN VERB + adverb

Someillustrativeexamples

There was a slight INCREASE in the number of unemployed people.

The number of unemployed people INCREASED slightly.

There was a dramatic RISE in the amount of water.

The amount of water ROSE dramatically.

Tip!
Modify your nouns and verbs with adjectives and adverbs
in order to increase precision of describing data which
increases your score for task achievement.

35
Adjectives and adverbs according to the degree of change

(biggest to smallest)

adjectives that modify the size adjectives that modify the time

a dramatic… a sudden…

a considerable… a quick…

a steep a rapid…

a sharp… a steady…

a significant… a gradual…

a substantial… a slow…

a moderate…

a slight…

adverbs that modify the size adverbs that modify the time

…dramatically …suddenly

…considerably …quickly

…steeply …rapidly

…sharply …steadily

…significantly …gradually

…substantially …slowly

…moderately

…slightly

36
Prepositions for time and data

Time

from 1900 to 2000

during the period from 1900 to 2000

from 1940 onwards

in 1940

Numbers

Use amount with things that cannot be counted but ' number ' with things that can be
counted

The number of unemployed people increased from 1,000 to 2,000

The number of unemployed people increased by 1,000

reached a peak at 2,000

fell to its lowest point at 1,000

Tip!
Accuracy with prepositions is essential to reaching high
scores for grammar.

37
Language with numbers and percentages
When writing your report you must carefully identify whether the information that is given
involves countable data (trees), uncountable data (water), or percentages (15%). This is
because the language used with the three types is different. If you use the incorrect
language the examiner will easily identify it and your vocabulary score will be lowered. Use
number with things that can be counted and amount with things that cannot be counted.

Countable numbers

The number of trees planted increased

Uncountable numbers

The amount of water used increased

Percentages

The percentage of water used increased by 15%.

The proportion of water used increased by 15%.

The rate of water usage increased by 15%.

The water usage increased by 15%

The water usage increased by 15percent.

The water usage increased by 15percent.

The water usage increased (15%).

38
Steps to complete a change over time task

1. Read and underline key vocabulary in the question and try to rephrase them.

2. Check whether the data is about percentages or numbers.

• For percentages use: proportion, %, per cent, rate, one-third, two-thirds

• For numbers use: amount for uncountable nouns, number for countable nouns

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer, look for the following:

• beginning numbers

• ending numbers

• highest points

• lowest points

• data series that overtake other ones (e.g. line chart where one line crosses over another
line)

• period of fluctuation, stability

• sudden changes of increase or decrease

4. Identify the highlights of the task. There should be about ten critical points that should
be mentioned for each task. You must always cover all categories and all time periods, but
you don’t need to cover every category for every time period.

In addition to the brainstorming above look for:

• striking trends

• comparisons/similarities

• overall trends

5. Work out the overall summary. There should be one or two key points that must be
mentioned.

6. Plan the structure of answer. (Decide how the data can be grouped into paragraphs).

39
Sample change over time task
You are advised to spend a maximum of 20 minutes on this task.

The line chart below shows the number of men and women that smoke cigarettes in
Australia.

You should write at least 150 words.

CigaretteSmokingInAustralia

7
Millions

4
men
3
women
2

0
1960 1965 1970 1975 1980 1985 1990 1995 2000

The graph reveals statistics about female and male smokers in Australia
between the years 1960 and 2000. Overall, the number of male smokers
declined strongly, whereas the total number of female smokers rose slightly. In
addition, there are always more male smokers than females throughout the
entire period.

The number of men who smoked in 1960 was approximately 6 million but this
decreased gradually to 5 million by 1974. Subsequently, it continued to
decrease but more steeply to 2.5 million in 2000, which was the lowest point in
the entire period surveyed.

In contrast, the popularity of smoking for females fluctuated throughout the

period. In 1960 it was very low at only about 1 million. By 1968 this increased
by about 100,000 to 1.70 million and increased again but more steeply to reach
a peak at 3.2 million in 1977. The number of female smokers then dropped
slightly to 2 million by 2000. [153 words]

40
Steps to complete the model task

1. Read and underline key vocabulary in the question and write words with the
same or related meaning.

2. Check whether the data is about percentages or numbers.

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer, There should be about 10 critical points
that should be mentioned for each task)

1 = start number for men

2= lowest number for men

3= end number for men

4= start number for women

5= highest number for women

6= end number for women

41
Below are some additional points worth mentioning.

7= plateau for men

8= dramatic increase for women

9= levelled off for women

10= gradual decline for women

5. Work out the overall summary. There should be one or two key points

1. Male smokers declined strongly, whereas female smokers rose slightly.

2. There are always more male smokers than females throughout the entire period.

6. Plan the structure of answer. (Work out how the data can be grouped into
paragraphs).

Generally speaking it is easier to organise data by the fewest types of categories, so in this
case it makes sense to group data by gender and not by time periods. The structure is as
follows:

Introduction = rephrase the task introduction + overall summary

men = describe from the starting time period to the end

women = describe from the starting time period to the end

7. Write the task.

The model answer is written above.

42
 2.4. Process diagram or flow chart

Task Instructions

The IELTS process task is designed to test your ability to compare and contrast information
shown in a process diagram, or flow chart. You are required to write over 150 words, and
the task should be completed in 20 minutes (both part 1 and 2 must be finished in 1 hour).

Requires

1. Articles. Every countable noun needs an article (a, an, the)

2. Passive tense. This is where the sentence starts with the object and the subject of
the sentence is often missed out (especially for a man-made process where the
subject is often unknown)

3. Sequencers: (first, subsequently, after that, finally)

4. Verbs of process: Verbs are needed to describe putting things in, taking them out,
changing one thing into another, or throwing away waste items. (inserted, extracted,
transformed into, discarded)

5. ‘Non-defining’ Relative Clauses are useful for adding extra information about the
subject or the object of the sentence

43
Language for processes

Steps in the process

The first step
The first step in the process is
The first stage in the process is
The process begins with
The process commences with

Subsequent steps
Subsequently,
After this,
The next step is
In the next stage,
In the following stage,
Following this,

The final step

The process finishes with ...
The process concludes with ...
The last step is ...

Describing the location of objects

adjacent to

alongside

underneath

OBJECT A is… above …OBJECT B

in the middle of

on the right of

on the left of

between
OBJECT A is… … OBJECT B and OBJECT C
equidistant from

44
Expressing purpose - why something is done
... in order to …

... so as to… As

a result,

Eventually,

Consequently,

Passive Form
The passive begins with the object (receiver of the action) and is followed by an auxiliary
verb and a main verb in the past participle form. The table below compares the passive to
the active tense.

Tense Verb

Present Active Mike writes a book.

Present Passive A book is written by Mike.

Past Active Mike wrote a book.

Past Passive A book was written by Mike

Tip!
Passive voice is needed when describing actions where the
subject is unknown.

45
Steps to complete a process diagram task:

1. Read the question and the process diagram and underline key words.

2. Paraphrase key words where possible.

3. Look for any unlabeled parts of the process and name them if you can.

4. Look for a logical start point for the process.

5. Look for a logical middle point for the process, so that you can separate the data into
paragraphs in the body of the report.

6. Look for the logical end point for the process.

7. Number steps in the process to make sure you will not miss out any of the steps
when you write your report.

8. Write the report.

9. Proofread the report.

46
Structuring the task
Introduction

1. Rephrase the question

2. Give an overall summary of the process [= number of steps, number of materials used,
amount of equipment used]

Body

Make sure you write about every stage of the process. If there are less than nine steps in the
process, I suggest you write a sentence for every step to make sure you can get to the 150
word requirement. If there are more than ten steps you will need to start to combine these
steps in your sentences in order to be able to finish on time.

If there is a logical separation point in the process you could divide the steps in the process
into two or even more paragraphs.

Note: you should not write a conclusion unless you have less than 150 words. If you need to
write a conclusion, you can write a paragraph that rephrases your first paragraph to get to
the required 150 word limit.

47
Sample process task

The diagram below shows the various stages involved in the production of
beer.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Task taken from: The Complete Guide to Task 1 Writing by Phil Biggerton.

Model answer for a process

The figure illustrates the different steps used to manufacture beer. Overall,
there are eleven stages in the process, beginning with the milling of malted
barley and ending with packaging the beer.

Looking at first stages of the process, we can see that in order to get liquid from
malted barley, it has to be milled, mashed with water and lautered in special
tanks. In order to get a pure liquid, the spent grain is taken out and used for
feeding of animals. Then, the liquid has to be boiled with sugar and hops
and mixed in a whirlpool before cooling.

In the next stages the cooled liquid has to be fermented by adding yeast and
carbon dioxide. Then, it goes to storage tanks, in order to be matured. In the
second to last stage, the matured beer is transferred to a filter for filtering.
Finally, the beer is packed in bottles or barrels or put on trucks for delivery.
[159 words]

48
Steps to complete the process task

1. Read the question and the process diagram and underline key words. Paraphrase key
words where possible; and turn nouns into verbs, and verbs into nouns
The diagram below shows the various stages involved in the production
figure illustrates different steps used manufacture
of beer.

2. Look for any unlabeled parts of the process and name them if you can.

3. Look for a logical start point for the process.

Step one Adding malted barley [top-left corner of the illustration]

4. Look for a logical middle point for the process, so that you can separate the data into
paragraphs in the body of the report
step eight when the fermenting process begins

5. Look for the logical end point for the process.

Step 11 packaging

6. Number steps in the process to make sure you will not miss out any of the steps
when you write your report.

7. Write the report

8. Proofread the report

49
 2.5. Map or floor plan
Task Instructions

The IELTS map or floor plan task is designed to test your ability to compare and contrast
information shown in a map or floor plan of a building. You are required to write over 150
words, and the task should be completed in 20 minutes (both part 1 and 2 must be finished
in 1 hour).

Requires

1. Articles: Every countable noun needs an article (a, an, the).

2. Passive tense: This is where the sentence starts with the object and the subject of
the sentence is often missed out (especially for developments where the subject is
often unknown, for example, "a building was constructed").
[Note this is explained in the previous section on process tasks.]

3. Language to describe locations (north, south….adjacent to, across from).

4. Verbs of change: Verbs are needed to describe things being added, removed, or
changed (constructed, demolished, transformed).

5. ‘Non-defining’ Relative Clauses are useful for adding extra information about the
subject or the object of the sentence.

Tip!
If you get a map or floor plan task always look to see if there is
a compass on it so that you can use it to describe the location
of objects.

50
Language to describe locations

Compass points

You can use the table below to describe the points on the compass.

Note the following rules about capitalisation:

1. Don't capitalise points of a compass when describing a general location or direction. For
example: In the north of the map is a house.

2. Capitalise for names. For example: The house is in North America.

northwest north northeast

west east

southwest south southeast

Describing location if there is no compass or to rephrase compass points

Every real test paper I have seen has had a compass on it. If you ever get one that doesn't or
if you want to show your ability to rephrase you can use the expressions below. For example:
In the top left of the map is a house.

top-left top top-right

left center right

bottom-left bottom bottom-right

51
DESCRIBING LOCATIONS

The residential area is located in the north-west

South of the residential area is a golf course

A museum is Next to/ Adjacent to the golf course.

In the central part of the map there is a supermarket

COMPARISON AND CONTRAST WORDS

The bank is twice as big as the library.

The library is half the size of the bank.

The supermarket is closer to the residential area than the post office.

The post office is further away from the residential area than the supermarket.

52
Planning a map task

1. Read the question and the map/floor plan and underline key words.

2. Paraphrase keywords that are given in the question where possible.

3. Look for a compass so that you can know whether you can use it for describing
locations.

4. Brainstorm key points for the answer. There should be about 10 critical points that
should be mentioned for each task.

5. Work out the overall summary. There should be one or two key points that must be
mentioned.

6. Plan the structure of answer (how can the data be grouped).

7. Write the task.

8. Proofread the task.

Single map task

A task where you are only given one map usually requires you to choose between two
proposed locations. Past test papers have included things like where to build a new
shopping centre, supermarket, and train station. In order to complete this task you should
compare the two proposed sites in terms of the feature of their surrounding areas. You may
also compare the actual sizes of each of the sites. Sometimes each site will be the same size
but sometimes there may be a difference in the size of buildings, and even other aspects
such as car parks.

Tip!
Single map tasks are used to test your ability to compare two
locations on a map.

53
Structuring a single map task
When you get a task with two proposed sites on a map you can use the structure below.

Introduction

1. Rephrase the task introduction.

2. Give an overall summary of the differences between the two locations on the map.
Essentially you need to point out what is the key difference between the two locations. The
main differences are likely to be the relative size of each of the sites and their proximity to
amenities such as roads, transportation networks or buildings such as hospitals and
recreational facilities. If you are given a floor plan the most likely changes are aspects such
as the proximity to entry ways, or facilities such as coffee making machines or photocopiers.

Body

As with other tasks you should always look for a logical way to separate the data into
paragraphs in the body. For this type of task it is very easy to separate data. You can have a
paragraph for each of the sites. When describing each site you can first discuss the
advantages of the site and then possibly the disadvantages. It may not always be
appropriate to discuss the disadvantages because sometimes the disadvantages of one site
are the advantages for the other.

The other important thing about writing the body of this type of task is to pick a logical
starting point to begin your description and then state clearly where this is located on the
map. Remember that your report should always make sense without the examiner looking
at the map. After you have just described the location of the first feature you can then move
on to discuss other features in relation to that first feature. Note that for Western logic it is
usual to describe things from left to right [which on the map is going to be west to east, and
from north to south]. The worst way to write the body paragraphs is to just jump around all
different locations of the map at random.

Note: you should not write a conclusion unless you have less than 150 words. For the
conclusion you can write a paragraph that rephrases your first paragraph to get to the
required 150 word limit.

54
Sample task for a single map

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The map below shows two different proposed locations for a camping ground.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

SITE 2

SITE 1

55
Model answer

The picture illustrates two potential positions for camping sites. Overall, site
one is smaller and located nearer to amenities, while site two is larger and
closer to recreational activities.

Site 1 is located on the west side of the map and it is the smaller of the two
sites. The main advantage of this site is its proximity to transportation facilities.
It is across the road from the airport and has a bus stop next to it. In addition
there is a grocery store down the road to the east.

Turning to site 2, which is located in the north-east of the map, it is a much

larger site. Moreover it is located very close to many entertainment activities.
To the east campers can go boating or horse riding. South of the site there is a
library and a place to go fishing. As well as this across the road to the west
there is a golf course.

[157 words]

56
Steps to complete the model task
1. Read the task introduction for the map and underline and rephrase key words.
The map below shows two different proposed locations for a camping ground.
picture illustrates potential positions camping sites

2. Look for a compass so that you can know whether you can use it for describing locations.
yes there is a compass! [In the top left corner]

3. Look for a dividing feature of the body of the report.

each of the two sites will be a body paragraph

4. Look for any unlabeled parts of the map and name them if you can.
bus stop, grocery store, library, place for boating, horse riding, fishing

5. Number key points of the map to make sure you will not miss out any of these features
when you write your report.

57
6. Work out the overall summary.
Site 1 is smaller and it is closer to transportation facilities
Site 2 is larger and it is closer to entertainment facilities

7. Plan the structure of answer (how can the data be grouped).

Introduction
site 1
site 2

8. Write the report.

9. Proofread the report.

58
Model report with the comparative words underlined

The picture illustrates two potential positions for camping sites. Overall, site
one is smaller and located nearer to amenities, while site two is larger and
closer to recreational activities.

Site 1 is located on the west side of the map and it is the smaller of the two
sites. The main advantage of this site is its close proximity to transportation
facilities. It is across the road from the airport and has a bus stop next to it. In
addition, there is a grocery store down the road to the east.

Turning to site 2, which is located in the north-east of the map, it is a much

larger site. Moreover it is located veryclose to many entertainment activities.
To the east campers can go boating or horse riding. South of the site there is a
library and a place to go fishing. As well as this across the road to the west
there is a golf course.

Model report with the location words underlined

The picture illustrates two potential positions for camping sites. Overall, site
one is smaller and located nearer to amenities, while site two is larger and
closer to recreational activities.

Site 1 is locatedonthewest of the map and it is the smaller of the two sites.
The main advantage of this site is its proximity to transportation facilities. It is
acrosstheroadfrom the airport and has a bus stop nexttoit. In addition, there
is a grocery store downtheroadtotheeast.

Turning to site 2, which is locatedinthenorth-east of the map, it is a much

larger site. Moreover it is locatedverycloseto many entertainment activities. To
theeast campers can go boating or horse riding. Southofthesite there is a
library and a place to go fishing. As well as this across the road to the west
there is a golf course.

59
Double map task

When you are given two maps the key point is to compare these maps and
highlight the main changes that have occurred. These are likely to be things
being added, removed or being turned into different things.

Describing changes using past passive tense

was constructed

Added was built

was erected

were cut down

Removed
was replaced

was converted

was turned into

Changed was transformed

was replaced with

was changed into

Stayed the same remained

Tip!
Tasks with two maps are used to test your ability to identify
changes that have occurred between these two maps.

60
Structuring a double map task
When you get a task with two or more maps you can use the structure below.

Introduction

1. Rephrase the task introduction.

2. Give an overall summary of the differences between the maps. Essentially you need to
point out what is the key difference. For maps of the town it is usually from a small
undeveloped place into a much larger more developed place. The more developed place is
often a tourist centre or has a much better transportation network. For a floor plan the
most likely changes are for a larger building and a smaller outdoor area; or, a change in the
number of rooms.

Body

As with other tasks you should always look for a logical way to separate the data into
paragraphs in the body. There are two ways to do this. The first is to write a paragraph
about each map. In this case the first paragraph will describe the most notable features of
the first map. The second paragraph will describe the changes that have occurred, which are
likely to be things being removed added or changed.

The second way to structure the body is to look for a dividing feature in the map like a river
or road in the middle of it. Then each of the body paragraphs describes each of the sides.
Even if you follow the previous structure of writing a body paragraph about each map, it is
still a good idea to look for a dividing feature and structure each of these paragraphs
according to that dividing feature.

The other important thing about writing the body of this type of task is to pick a logical
starting point to begin your description and then state clearly where this is located on the
map. Remember that your report should always make sense without the examiner looking
at the map. After you have just described the location of the first feature you can then move
on to discuss other features in relation to that first feature. Note that for Western logic it is
usual to describe things from left to right [which on the map is going to be west to east, and
from north to south]. The worst way to write the body paragraphs is to just jump around all
different locations of the map at random.

Note: you should not write a conclusion unless you have less than 150 words. For the
conclusion you can write a paragraph that rephrases your first paragraph to get to the
required 150 word limit.

61
Sample of a double map task

The maps below show how the town of Harborne changes from 1936 to 2007. Summarise
the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where
relevant.

Task taken from: The Complete Guide to Task 1 Writing by Phil Biggerton.

62
Model answer for a map
The illustrations reveal changes that occurred in the township of Harborne from 1936 to
2007. Overall, the town became a much larger residential area with more shops.

Many changes occurred west of the city. In the north-west most of the trees were cut down,
and in the south-west the bicycle track was converted into a roadway. In the centre of the
city, the post office, bank, and library remained. However, in the northern section the candy
store and butchers shop were converted into a grocery store. A shopping centre was
constructed in the centre of the downtown replacing most of the open space there. In the
southern part the flower shop became a travel agent.

North-east of the downtown area the river was turned into a lake and a large residential
area was built on its shores with lots of high-rise apartments. Meanwhile, in the south-east
the government offices were transformed into a museum and the farmland became a golf
course.

[160 words]

63
Steps to complete the model task

1. Read the task introduction for the map and rephrase key words.
Paraphrase key words where possible.
The maps below show how the town of Harborne changes from 1936
to 2007.
illustrations reveal township changes that occurred

2. Look for a compass so that you can know whether you can use it for
describing locations - yes there is a compass!

3. Look for a dividing feature in the centre of the map.

the downtown area

4. Look for any unlabeled parts of the map and name them if you can.
high-rise apartments [in the north-east]

5. Look for a logical start point for describing the map.

north-west of the downtown area seems like a good starting point

6. Look for a logical middle point for the map, so that you can separate the
data into paragraphs in the body of the report.
the downtown area

64
7. Number key points of the map to make sure you will not miss out any of
these features when you write your report.

8. Plan the structure of answer (how can the data be grouped)

Introduction
West and downtown area
East area

9. Write the report

[Link] the report

65
Verbsusedtodescribechangesareunderlinedbelow

The illustrations reveal changes that occurred in the township of Harborne from 1936 to
2007. Overall, the town became a muchlargerresidentialarea with moreshops.

Many changes occurred west of the city. In the north-west most of the trees werecutdown,
and in the south-west the bicycle track wasconverted into a roadway. In the centre of the
city, the post office, bank, and library remained. However in the northern section the candy
store and butchers shop wereconverted into a supermarket. A shopping centre was
constructed in the centre of the downtown replacing most of the open space there. In the
southern part the flower shop became a travel agent.

North-east of the downtown area the river wasturnedinto a lake and a large residential
area wasbuilt on its shores with lots of high-rise apartments. Meanwhile, in the south-east
the government offices weretransformed into a museum and the farmland became a golf
course.

Exercise3:Verbsdescribingchange

All the verbs used to describe the changes made are underlined above try to categorise
these according to the function of these verbs in the table below. You can check your
answers at the end of this section of the book.

Added 1

Removed 3

Changed 4

Stayed the same 7

66
Sample task for a floor plan
The floor plans below show the changes that were made to a house over a six-month period.

Model answer for a floor plan

The illustrations reveal the alterations that occurred at a residential building.
Overall, the main difference is that the renovated building has one less internal
wall.

Looking at the point of entry to the house in the middle, there is no longer a
porch in the updated house. In addition, on the left side of the house the wall
has been removed between the sitting room and kitchen to make one large living
space, with a dining table placed in the middle. The cooking area has been
moved to the right-hand wall of the kitchen, and there is no longer an area for
eating in the rear of the kitchen.

Turning to the right-hand side of the house, in the rear the bathroom has been
modified by moving the toilets to the middle of the room and replacing the
bathtub with a shower. The wardrobes have been removed from both bedrooms.
In addition, the window has been removed from the rear bedroom, while the
front bedroom has a smaller window.

[169]

67
Steps to complete the model task
1. Read the task introduction for the map and rephrase key words.
The floor plans below show the changes that were made to a house.

illustrations reveal alterations occurred residential building

2. Look for a compass so that you can know whether you can use it for
describing locations. -no compass

3. Look for a dividing feature in the centre of the map.

the hallway and entrance

4. Look for any unlabeled parts of the map and name them if you can.
windows; bathtub [before] shower [after; dining table [after]

5. Look for a logical start point for describing the map.

The veranda and entry seems like a good starting point.

6. Look for a logical middle point for the map, so that you can separate the
data into paragraphs in the body of the report.
the downtown area

Tip!
With a floor plan it can be difficult to find a logical start
point. The key point is to pick a location and then make sure
it is clear to the reader where this is

68
7. Number key points of the map to make sure you will not miss out any of
these features when you write your report.

8. Plan the structure of answer. (how can the data be grouped)

Introduction

West and downtown area

East area

9. Write the report.

10. Proofread the report.

69
 2.6. Future period tasks
Sometimes in the exam you are given date that concerns a future time period. In this case,
the future data is a prediction or forecast, and you must make this clear when writing your
report. You cannot state it in the present tense as a fact. You must make it clear to the examiner
that this information is only a forecast. If you fail to do this you are making a factual error
and your score for task achievement will be lowered.

Language for expressing a prediction

Words to express a prediction: predicted, expected, forecasted, anticipated

Future tense: will, is going to

It is predicted that the use of solar energy will rise.

It is anticipated that the use of solar energy isgoingto rise.

Note about the following task

The report is produced in 2010 so we can establish that all data before this point has
actually occurred and everything after this date is a projection.

70
Sample future task

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task

The graph below gives information from a report in 2010 about the use of energy in
Australia since 1980 with projections until 2030.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make
comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words

Energy Use by Fuel (1980-2030)

60

oil
50

40
Coal
billion units

30

Natural gas
20

Nuclear
10

Solar
0
1980 1990 2000 2010 2020 2030

Tip!
When describing data about the future it is essential you
make it clear that the data is only a prediction.

71
Model answer
Given is a line graph, which displays energy consumption in Australia from
1980 to 2030; the energy is divided into different categories according to fuel
sources. Overall, it can be seen that there is an upward trend for all types of
energy except during the period from 1980 to 2010, and this trend is predicted
to continue up to and including 2030.

In 1980, 35 billion units of oil were used to generate energy. Fluctuations in the
first 15 years notwithstanding, the units of consumption experienced a steady
growth from 1995 onwards, and projections show the usage will hit about 48
billion by 2030. Even though coal starts the graph much lower at 16 billion units
and natural gas at 20 billion units, they are both expected to consistently climb
to end at 32 billion and 25 billion units, respectively, with the usage of coal now
ahead by approximately 7 billion units.

Standing at 4 billion units in 1980, nuclear and solar energy underwent a marginal
increase in their consumption units, and are expected to reach 8 billion and
6 billion units, respectively, in 2030, according to estimates.

[189 words]

72
Model answer with the future predictions underlined
Given is a line graph, which displays energy consumption in Australia from
1980 to 2030; the energy is divided into different categories according to fuel
sources. Overall, it can be seen that there is an upward trend for all types of
energy during the period from 1980 to 2010, and this trend is predictedto continue
up to and including 2030.

In 1980, 35 billion units of oil were used to generate energy. Fluctuations in the
first 15 years notwithstanding, the units of consumption experienced a steady
growth from 1995 onwards, and projections show the usage will hit about 48
billion by 2030. Even though coal starts the graph much lower at 16 billion units
and natural gas at 20 billion units, they arebothexpectedtoconsistentlyclimb to
end at 32 billion and 25 billion units, respectively, with the usage of coal now
ahead by approximately 7 billion units.

Standing at 4 billion units in 1980, nuclear and solar energy underwent a marginal
increase in their consumption units, and are expected to reach 8 billion and 6
billion units, respectively, in 2030, accordingtoestimates.

73
 2.7. Vocabulary

General trend:

From the data it is evident that the majority of…

With a cursory glance, it can clearly be seen from the information provided that…

The most striking feature of the chart is that…

The most noticeable characteristic of the chart is that…

Linking Phrases:

Initially,

According to the data collected…

Most noteworthy, is the fact that…

More specifically, from the point of view of…

In direct contrast, ...

In stark contrast, ...

However,…

Table:

Tabular numeric data is presented that shows…

The rows show information about…

The columns show data concerning…

Pie chart:

The pie chart/graph reveals data concerning ...

The largest sector of the graph is for…

74
Bar graph:

The bar chart/graph reveals…

Each bar represents…

Line chart:

This line chart/graph) displays information as a series of data points connected by straight
line segments.

The vertical axis represents…

The horizontal axis shows...

Map

Given is a map of… illustrating … in relation to … as well as ....

As shown in the figure…

Language of approximation

Just under; well under; just over; well over

Roughly; nearly; approximately; around; about

Language for similar information

Similarly,…

Likewise,…

At the same rate as,…

By the same token,…

Language for different information

differ from; dissimilarly; unlike; different from

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Language for increases

Double/twofold/ increased two times

Triple/ treble/ threefold/ increased three times

Quadruple/ four times

Sixfold

Language for decreases

A half/ half; one third/ by a third; one fourth/ quarter; one-fifth; one-tenth

Language to describe Time

over the period

during the period in question

during the first period

prior to

a decade earlier in the subsequent decade

from 1990 onwards

in the latter half of a year

in the last quarter

76
 2.8. Sentence structures
In order to score well for grammar, it is important to show a range of sentence types. This
can easily be achieved by using different structures for your sentences. Different structures
can be created by changing the order of information and the placement of data in the
sentence.

S + I + D
Subject Importance Data

Example Subject: Australia

Importance: the biggest producer of steel

Data: 70 billion tonnes per year

S+I+D

Australia is the biggest producer of steel at 70 billion tonnes tons per year.

D+I+S

At 70 million tons per year, the biggest producer of steel in the world is Australia.

I+D+S

The biggest producer of steel in the world, at 70 million tons of steel per year, is
Australia.

I+S+D

The biggest producer of steel in the world is Australia at 70 million tons per year.

77
S+D+I

Australia, at 70 million tons per year, is the biggest producer of steel in the world.

D+S+I

At 70 million tons per year, Australia is the biggest producer of steel in the world.

Example using more than one structure:

It is interesting to note that at 70 million tons of steel per year, Australia is the biggest
producer in the world followed by Canada with the second largest amount of steel
production at 65 million tons.

Tip!
Use a wide range of sentence structures to increase your score
for grammar

78
 2.9. Answers

Exercise 1: Comparatives and Superlatives

comparative superlative
1. accurate more accurate most accurate

2. certain more certain most certain

3. pretty prettier prettiest

4. cool cooler coolest

5. correct more correct most correct

6. dangerous more dangerous most dangerous

7. easy easier easiest

8. modern more modern most modern

9. funny funnier funniest

10. new newer newest

11. possible more possible most possible

12. probable more probable most probable

13. up-to-date more up-to-date most up-to-date

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Exercise 2: Language with numbers and percentages

1. The number/amount of cars was over 1,000.

2. The rate/number of electricity usage was 15 per cent.

3. The amount/percentage of power was 15%

4. The number/amount of trains was 100.

5. The number/proportion of lamb consumed increased by 15 percent.

6. The percentage/amount of lamb (15%) and chicken (16%) were about the same.

7. The number/amount of beer consumed was 100 litres.

8. The proportion/amount of water usage and power usage were 15% and 16%,
respectively.

9. The number/percentage of apples was 10 on Fridays.

10. The number/amount of oil produced was 100 litres.

Exercise 3: Verbs describing change

Added 1 was constructed

2 was built

Removed 3 were cut down

Changed 4 was converted

5 was turned into

6 were transformed

Stayed the same 7 remained

80
3. Task 1 General: Letters
Model letters and how to write them!

81
 3.1. Overview
Writing Task 1 of the IELTS general exam is designed to test your ability to write a letter. You
must present the information in your own words as complete sentences within paragraphs
using a letter format. You are required to write over 150 words, and the task should be
completed in about 20 minutes (both part 1 and 2 must be finished in 1 hour).

How to improve your letter writing

1. Learn how to structure different types of letter
2. learn vocabulary for different types of letters
3. Learn skills to improve your answers
4. Practice these skills
5. Do lots of practice tests.
6. Receive feedback on practice tests
7. Use the feedback to improve your answers

Grading criteria
Criteria Requirement

Task Achievement [Task write over 150 words

Response] respond to each bullet point
use an appropriate tone and level of politeness
Coherence and Cohesion sequence information and ideas logically
use paragraphing appropriately
use a range of cohesive devices appropriately
avoid unnecessary repetition of information
Lexical Resource [Vocabulary] use of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision
use less common lexical items
awareness of style and collocation
avoid errors with word formation
avoid errors with spelling
avoid errors with word choices
Grammatical Range and uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
Accuracy produce error-free sentences
avoid errors with grammar and punctuation

82
Task sequence for writing a letter
In order to complete your task efficiently and within about 20 minutes you should complete
the task in the following manner:

1. Read the question and identify the purpose of the letter. (Asking for
help, requesting information, apologizing, complaining, or thanking
someone)

2. Underline key words to help you understand the purpose better and
also so you can rephrase these words when you write your letter.

3. Brainstorm how you will answer the task You always need to
respond to three bullet points. In some cases this may require you to
"invent" information. For instance, you will need to think of a piece of
equipment if you are asked to: describe a problem you had with a piece
of equipment.

4. Write the letter

5. Proofread your letter

Tip!
Practice writing you letters using the same sequence over
and over so that you have it perfected before your test.

83
Parts of letters
There are six main parts to an IELTS letter.

[Note: You do NOT need to write any addresses or dates]

Greeting

Opening of the letter

Body of the letter

Closing of the letter

Farewell

Your name

Greeting: Dear Marie, Dear Ms. Smith, Dear Sir or Madam,

The greeting should be appropriate for the type of letter you are writing. If you are writing
to a friend or family member, it is most appropriate to just write that person's first name. If
you are writing a more formal letter to someone you know - such as your boss, you should
use that person's last name. Do not use Dear Sir or Madam in this instance because that is
only for letters to people who you do not know. Dear Sir or Madam is only for instances
where you do not know the person you are writing to.

84
Opening of the letter: It was great to see you last weekend; I am writing with regards to…

With a formal letter you should go straight to the purpose of the letter. With a personal
letter to a friend or family member it is usually appropriate to start with a warm comment
and then the purpose of the letter:

Formalletter

I am writing with regards to…

I am writing to inquire about…

Informalletter

I hope you are enjoying your new home. Anyway, the reason I'm writing to you
is because I have some good news to share with you…

Body of the letter

The body of the letter contains the message the writer needs to communicate, which in the
case of IELTS is the three bulleted points that need to be addressed. Sometimes the first
bulleted point will appear in the same paragraph as the opening of the letter described
above and sometimes it may follow the opening in a new paragraph. Each paragraph should
begin with a topic sentence that introduces the main point of the paragraph. This main
point should be one of the three bullet points that you have been asked to write about. By
writing a clear topic sentence you send a clear signal to the examiner about which bullet
point you are covering and this makes it easy for the examiner to assess the quality of your
task response and also increases your score for cohesion and coherence, due to the ease
with which the examiner can read your letter. It also helps you to focus on the bullet points,
which makes it easier to finish your task on time. Topic sentences can begin with phrases
like: With regards to…, As for…, I would also like to mention…

85
Closing of the letter

If the letter is to a friend or family member you might finish with a warm comment. For
more formal letters the closing of the letter consists of a closing sentence to the letter like: I
appreciate your time and attention to this matter. Without this sentence the letter may
seem to finish too abruptly and therefore the TONE of the letter may not be appropriate,
which will result in a lower score for task achievement.

Farewell: Yours faithfully, Yours sincerely, Best regards,

There are lots of phrases to end letters. I suggest you pick something that works and always
use the same way to finish your letters. You can use the following phrases depending on
whether you are writing a formal or informal letter.

Formal (to someone you haven’t met)

Yours faithfully,

Mike Duntree

Formal (to someone you have met)

Yours sincerely,

Mike Duntree

Semi-formal (To someone you know really well)

Best regards,

Mike

Your name: Mike; Mike Wattie [FIRST name; FIRST LAST names]

If you are just writing to a friend or family member you can just write your first name. If the
letter is more formal and it is to a company or person you do not know well you need to
write your first and last names. In most situations it will be appropriate to write your first
and last names; even to a friend this is appropriate. In this case you should generally use
both names. However, it would be strange to write your last name if you were writing to
your mother, so you should try to remain a little flexible.
86
 3.2. Types of letters

Task one of the IELTS writing exam includes different types of letters. The most common
ones are to write a letter to ask for information, respond to a request for information, to
make a complaint, to thank someone or to make an apology. The usual subject areas are
related to finding accommodation, difficulties with accommodation, making travel
arrangements, planning holidays, thanking friends or relatives for holidays, and responding
to requests for social events.

The other factor to take note of in this section is whether it is a semi-formal letter to
someone you know or a more formal letter to someone you don’t know. This influences the
tone or attitude of the letter. If you are writing to a friend or someone who is known to you,
you might choose to use a more friendly tone, whereas this should be avoided if you are
writing to a stranger.

Tip!
Getting the correct level of formality is critical to
scoring well for task achievement!

87
Formality of letters
Certain styles of letters are required for certain occasions. When deciding what style of
letter to write, consider the audience of the letter, and the purpose of the letter. Turning
first to the audience in the exam you will have to write a letter to a business, acquaintance,
or friend or family member.

Formalletters

The body of a letter written to a business or a person you don’t know well is written in
formal language, unlike the more casual and friendly language of a letter to a friend or
family member.

Semi-formalletters

These letters are to acquaintances, friends or family and so the tone should be friendlier
than with a letter to a business. An appropriate tone is an important element of task
achievement.

Informalletters

I suggest you do not write this type of letter in the IELTS exam. These are letters written to
very close friends and have features such as slang and abbreviations of words. You should
NEVER use overly informal language or texting language such as wanna, cos, and LOL. Using
the right tone influences the TASK score for your letter.

The reason why I suggest you do not write this way is because it may lower your score for
task achievement as it is easy for the tone to be inappropriate. In addition, it may decrease
your score for vocabulary because many features of informal writing use unsophisticated
language. It's always better to be too formal than not formal enough!

88
Purposes of letters
It's very important than when you get your task you work out the purpose of the letter you
need to write. You need to focus on this purpose throughout the letter in order to score well
for task achievement. You can make the purpose of the letter clear by stating it in the
introduction. For the IELTS exam you need to be able to write the following types of letters:

Requesting information

This type of letter requires you to write a letter to ask for information from a business or
acquaintance.

Giving information

This type of letter requires you to write a letter to respond to a request for information.

Making a complaint

This type of letter requires you to write a letter to complain about a product or situation.

Making an apology

This type of letter requires you to write a letter to apologise for making a mistake or
disturbing someone.

Thanking someone

This type of letter requires you to write a letter to thank someone for his or her
thoughtfulness or kindness.

89
 3.3. Requesting information

This type of letter requires you to write a letter to ask for information from a business or
acquaintance. When you are asked to make a request for information the most important
thing is to use a polite tone. If you do not use an appropriate tone your score for task
achievement will be lowered.

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You are planning to spend a weekend at a hotel with your family. Write a
letter to the hotel making the arrangements. Ask them the following:

• when you want to arrive and leave

• what type of rooms you would like and ask how much they will cost

• you are interested to know about activities and places of interest near
the hotel

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ……….,

Tip!
Before you start writing, make sure you are very clear
about the type of letter you need to write.

90
Usefullanguageforrequestinginformation

To begin letters:

I am writing to ask if you would be so generous as to …

I am writing to request your kind permission for …

I wonder if I might ask you for your valuable advice concerning …

Phrases to make requests:

Could you also provide details of…

I would also like to know…

In addition, could you tell me…

To end letters:

I hope that my request will not inconvenience you too much.

I appreciate your time and attention to this matter.

Thank you in advance for your kind cooperation.

Tip!
When you request information it is better to be
over-polite than not polite enough.

91
Sampleletterofrequest

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to ask if you would be so kind as to give me some details about

your hotel's accommodation.

I would like to book accommodation for my family and I from the 11th of March
until the 15th. On the 11th I would like to arrive late in the afternoon, and on
the 15th, if possible, I would like to have a late check-out at about 4pm.

As we are two adults and a child, I would like to book a one-bedroom suite, if
possible. I would also prefer a non-smoking room as my daughter has allergies.
Please, let me know how much it would be for the entire length of our stay and
also whether the price includes anything extra like breakfast.

I would also appreciate any information you can offer about places for
sightseeing and leisure activities as we will be spending a few days in the town
nearby.

Thank you in advance for your kind cooperation.

Yours faithfully,

Mike Wattie

92
 3.4. Giving information
This type of letter requires you to write a letter to respond to a request for information. The
most important thing about this task is to make sure that you clearly identify what
information needs to be given. In most cases you will need to give three different pieces of
information. You will need to make up a lot of the details of information you need to
provide for this task.

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You recently subscribed to a new magazine. A representative of the magazine

has asked you to give some feedback on their magazine. Write a letter to the
representative of the magazine that includes the following information:

• details of why you bought the magazine

• what you liked about the latest edition
• any improvements you would recommend

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ……….,

93
Usefullanguageforgivinginformation

To begin letters:

I am writing in response to your enquiry about ...

I am writing with regards to…

I am writing to advise you that…

To end letters:

I hope that this information will be of some assistance.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you have any further questions.

Do not hesitate to contact me should you require further assistance.

Other useful phrases:

Please find enclosed a …

May I bring to your attention …

The following information may be of use to you ….

I would also like to draw to your attention …

Tip!
When you write to give information that it is important to
make the purpose of the letter clear.

94
Samplelettertogiveinformation

Dear Mrs. Brown,

The purpose of this letter is to express my opinion about your magazine. I

believe it is a wonderful idea to ask for the thoughts of your readers about your
recently released publication.

I purchased the magazine because it includes topics that relate to my hobby of

bird watching. I often seek out new places to visit to take photos of birds and
your magazine seems to provide lots of good recommendations.

What I loved the most about your current issue was the article describing places
to go bird watching in local national parks. I especially like the way you
covered the latest developments in the parks that support birdwatchers.
Moreover, I felt attracted by the images portrayed on the cover page.

I would like to suggest you to continue producing material which is useful and
enjoyable to read. Also, I suggest that you make the magazine more concise and
with fewer images so it is lighter and even more appealing.

I hope you find my comments and recommendations helpful.

Yours faithfully,

Mike Wattie

95
 3.5. Making a complaint:
This type of letter requires you to write a letter to complain about a product or situation.
The tone of complaint letters should not be aggressive or insulting, as this will be considered
as an inappropriate tone and lower your score for task achievement. Usually it is better to
be too polite than to be not polite enough!

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Write a letter of complaint to a store where you purchased a faulty new

refrigerator. In your letter explain the following:

• where and when you purchased the refrigerator

• what is wrong with it
• what action you would like the store to take

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ……….,

96
Usefullanguageformakingacomplaint

To begin letters:

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with…

I regret to inform you how disappointed I was with…

I am writing to draw your attention to the problem of…

Politely making a complaint:

I would like to draw to your attention…

I would like to respectfully point out that…

In order to rectify the situation I will…

Politely asking for action to be taken

Due to the discomfort and convenience by respectfully request compensation for…

I believe the best way to rectify the situation is…

Could you please put this right by…

To end letters:

I hope this matter will be resolved as soon as possible.

I hope this matter will receive your immediate attention.

I would like to request full compensation for…

97
Sampleletterofcomplaint

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with a product I purchased recently

from one of your stores.

I recently bought a Samsung self-defrosting refrigerator from your store on

Grote St. in Adelaide. I paid cash for it and it was delivered to my house on the
11th of June. The model number is G11412, and it is shown on page 27 of your
spring catalogue.

There is a problem with the defrosting system of the refrigerator. Every time,
the refrigerator defrosts itself, a puddle of water forms on the floor in front of it.
This is both a nuisance and a danger as someone may slip and fall.

I hope this matter will receive your immediate attention. Please contact me
during the day on my mobile 094-980-2675 to arrange a time for a repair man
to fix the defrost system.

Thank you in advance for your help in straightening out this matter.

Yours faithfully,

Mike Wattie

Tip!
When making a complaint it is important for the tone of the letter
that you do not make threats or insult the person you are writing to.

98
 3.6. Making an apology
This type of letter requires you to write a letter to apologise for making a mistake or
disturbing someone. When you are asked to write a letter to apologise for a situation it is
important to express a high degree of sincerity. In addition, it is usually best to assume
responsibility and not try to put any of the blame back on to the person you are writing the
letter to.

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Recently you had a party at your house. There was a lot of noise late at night
and you disturbed your next door neighbour. Write a letter to your neighbour.
In your letter:

• explain the reasons for the noise

• apologise
• describe what action you will take to prevent it from happening again

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ……….,

99
Usefullanguageformakinganapology

To begin letters:

I am writing to sincerely apologise for…

Please accept my profuse apologies for….

I would like to apologise for….

Expressing regret:

Please accept my apology for…

I am sorry that I am unable to...

Regrettably, I cannot …

Making amends:

Please allow me to offer compensation for….

I insist on making up for your inconvenience by…

To end letters:

Once again, my apologies for the inconvenience caused.

I hope that you will accept my apologies.

I hope that you can overlook this regrettable error.

100
Sampleletterofapology

Dear Mr and Mrs Smith,

I am writing to sincerely apologise for the disturbance caused during my

birthday party last Saturday night.

I was celebrating my 25th birthday with my friends and approximately two

hours after the party started, two people, who were friends of a friend, started
arguing about an issue that is still unknown to me. Initially it was just a
discussion, but then it became a fight and I was forced to call the police.

I deeply regret having interrupted your sleep. Please accept my most sincere
apologies. The situation got out of control and noise at that point was inevitable.
However, I understand that we all enjoy living in a peaceful neighbourhood and
whatever happened at my party should not have disturbed you.

I will refrain from holding parties in my unit in the future in order to avoid
further problematic events in our residential area.

Once again, my apologies for the inconvenience caused.

Kind regards,

Mike Wattie

101
 3.7. Thanking someone

Thank you letters are sent as a courtesy to thank someone for his or her thoughtfulness or
kindness. It is important to use a polite tone.

WRITING TASK 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

A friend from overseas recently sent you a gift in the mail. Write a letter to your
friend to thank him/her. In your letter:

• say how you felt when you received the present

• describe what you like about it

• explain how you will use the present

Write at least 150 words.

You do NOT need to write any addresses.

Begin your letter as follows:

Dear ……….,

102
Usefullanguageforthankingsomeone

To begin letters:

I am writing to thank you for…

I am writing to express my gratitude for…

I would like to tell how cheerful I felt when…

Giving thanks

I am indeed indebted to you for...

I very much appreciated your...

I am extremely grateful to you for...

To end letters:

Once again thank you for…

Once again I really appreciated the…

I would like to once again express my gratitude for…

103
Sampleforthankingsomeone

Dear Peter,

It seems like ages since we were together at university. I am writing to express

my gratitude for remembering my birthday.

I felt really excited when I found a parcel from you in my letter box. I was really
touched that you have still kept in touch and what's more you remembered my
birthday. It really makes me feel we have a close and special friendship despite
the physical distance between us.

When I opened up the box and I found that you had sent a bottle of my favourite
maple syrup I was really happy. As you know I just love that sweet syrup and I
also liked the oak casket that it was packaged in.

Every Sunday, I am going to pour some of the syrup over my pancakes. I might
also make some of those maple syrup toffees I used to make when we were
flatmates.

Once again I really appreciated you remembering my birthday.

Cheers,

Mike

104
 3.8. Useful language for letters

To introduce new points:

With regard to…
As far as…is concerned…
I would also like to mention…

To emphasize what you are saying:

Clearly,
Obviously,
Needless to say,

Satisfaction
I thoroughly enjoyed...
I was thrilled about/by...
... was extraordinary

Dissatisfaction
I am discontent about/with…
I am not satisfied about/with…
...is not what I expected…
...does not fulfil my needs…
...is too + [adjective]

Regret/apology
I regret that I...
Please accept my apology for…
I am sorry that I am unable to...
Please forgive me for...
Regrettably I cannot …
Making a request
I would be grateful if…
What I am looking for is...
I am very keen to...
I would be indebted to you if you could…

Giving thanks
I am indeed indebted to you for...
I very much appreciated your...
I am extremely grateful to you for...

105
 3.9. Common errors

Task achievement

Poor time management

On any given test day it seems that around 30% of candidates are unable to finish their
writing exam. Task one requires you to write a minimum of 150 words and task two requires
you to write 250 words. If you do not write enough words your score for task achievement is
penalised by 1 to 3 points! In addition to that, if you didn't complete the task you are
unlikely to score well for task achievement anyway, as you are unlikely to have completely
answered all the requirements of the question. In this case your score for task achievement
would be restricted to 5 and you would still get the penalty on top of this. In other words
you probably will fail your exam! The following are my suggestions for managing your time:

Make sure you make a plan before you start writing. A plan will save you time when you
start writing because you will not have to keep stopping to think about what point you want
to make next. This is the area that most students do poorly on and in order to do it well it
takes practice. The best way to practice is to look at past exam questions and prepare a plan
of how you would write them.

Be careful you don't write too much for task one and then run out of time to write task two.
This is a very common mistake in the exam. Some people will write over 200 words for their
task one and then just a single paragraph for task two. This is a foolish way to fail your exam!

Make sure you have practiced writing sufficiently before your exam and that you
understand how to structure the different types of letters that get asked. If you are familiar
with the types of questions that get asked you won't get a nasty surprise and you will be
able to answer the question more quickly.

If you really have trouble with finishing on time, learn some stock phrases that you can write
quickly in the exam. If you have learnt the sentences well you will be able to write them
quickly and without errors. Lots of these types of phrases are provided under the different
types of letters in this book.

When practising if you find you are unable to complete both tasks fully within one hour then
you are not ready to take your exam and you need to practice more.

106
Not responding to all parts of the task.

Task 1 always requires that you write a letter in response to 3 bullet points. If you do not
address all three bullet points, your score is limited to 5 for task achievement. Scoring higher
than this requires a full response to each of the bullet points.

A friend from overseas recently sent you a gift in the mail. Write a letter to your friend to
thank him/her. In your letter:

• say how you felt when you received the present

• describe what you like about it

• explain how you will use the present

Not responding to all parts of the bullet point.

As well is responding to all three bullet points of a task, you must make sure that you address
all parts of a bullet point. Sometimes, a bullet point requires more than one response. For
example the bullet point below requires you to say two things. The first is the time you want
to arrive and the second is the time you want to leave.

• when you want to arrive and leave

Not giving a balanced answer to all three questions

As mentioned above a score of six or above for task achievement requires a full response to
each of the bullet points. The best way to achieve this is to answer each bullet point in its own
paragraph. Make each paragraph roughly the same size, where possible. It doesn't make sense
to just give a single sentence to respond to any of the bullet points because this response is
not complete and sufficient enough to get you to 7 and beyond for task achievement.

Tip!
To score well for task achievement you must respond
well to all parts of the question.

107
Inappropriate tone

The tone of your letter is extremely important to scoring above six for task achievement.
Some of the common errors are:

Too aggressive a tone in a letter of complaint:

X If you do not solve this immediately I will call my lawyer and sue you in court.

I would appreciate your immediate attention to this matter.

To be overly friendly with a letter that requires more formality. Note, don't think what might
actually occur in reality just think that it is an exam and it's better to be overly formal than
formal enough. For instance when you write a letter to your boss, you should keep it formal.

X Hey, can you give me the next week off mate?

I was wondering if it is possible to have leave next week?

Errors with the letter format

The format of your letter is also important for task response. You should not write your name
in the body of the letter. It should only be written at the end of the letter. A common mistake
student make is to write your name in the body of the letter when they are asked to introduce
themselves.

X My name is Mike Wattie I am a teacher from New Zealand.

I'm a teacher from New Zealand with over 15 years experience in second language
acquisition.

Another common mistake is not writing a surname for a formal letter.

x Yours sincerely,

Billy

Yours sincerely

Billy Thompson

108
Cohesion and coherence

Not clearly answering a question in one place

There are always three bullet points to respond to. The golden rule for letter writing is to
put your response to each bullet point in its own paragraph. This achieves a couple of
purposes. First of all, your paragraph will focus on one key point and that is an important
element of the paragraph. Secondly, you will make it easy for the examiner to read your
letter and assess your task achievement.

Don't ask questions unless the task requests it. And, do not ask rhetorical questions

X I remember you said you have a holiday soon. right? Then why don’t you come to
Vietnam then?

I would like to invite you to visit me in Vietnam when you have sufficient time.

Poor topic sentence

As with essays, paragraphs for letters should begin with a topic sentence. The topic
sentence introduces the key point of the paragraph and also sends a signal to the examiner
about which bullet point you are addressing.

As an illustrative example lets imagine the bullet point is as follows:

• Discuss relevant work experience for this job.

This bullet point should be responded to by starting the paragraph with a sentence that
signals your answer to this question.

X I studied accounting at Northampton University. Now I'm working as an accountant.

With regards to my background, I have over 10 years experience. For the last two
years I have been working as an accountant. Previously,….

Tip!
The Golden rule for structuring your essay is to put your
response to each bullet point in its own paragraph.

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Vocabulary

"S" endings of words

Almost every letter I read has this mistake. The writer puts an "S" where it's not needed or
else forgets to put one where it is needed. Examples below:

Student are always studying hard. [S is needed for students]

Students goes home tired every day. [The verb should be go]

Technologiesare developing rapidly. [Technology is uncountable in this context so it should

be technology is developing rapidly]

Other errors with word endings and form

Other common errors are errors with word endings such as "ed" for past tense, and errors
with word forms such as when a verb is incorrectly written as a noun. A couple of examples:

Last year my uncle work in America. [worked]

We need to management the environment better. [manage]

Repeating words excessively

You should always rephrase words that are given in the task because it shows your ability to
rephrase words and that you have a broad vocabulary. In addition to this, try to avoid
repeating the same word in the body of your essay. You can achieve this by using different
words or by using different forms of the same word.

Example of rephrase: country= nation

Example of change in form: young people need to be prepared for their careers =
preparation of young people for their careers is necessary

110
Colloquial expressions
Some phrases are used when speaking, but not when writing. Some
examples:
Actually, I would also like to mention, I reckon

Clichés
A cliché is an overused expression. These can be considered as "ugly" English. Examples:

At this point in time…

At the end of the day…

Just like every coin has two sides…

Tip!
To score well for vocabulary you need to not only not make
too many errors but also show talent with language. You can
do this by using a wide range of vocabulary and using

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Grammar

Articles
Almost every essay I read has errors with articles. The articles are: a, an, the
To reduce these errors you should read about the rules, do some quizzes, and also practice
your writing and get feedback on these.

Avoid using repetitive sentence structures

I am a member of your gym for the last five years. I am under a monthly membership
for $85, which includes two training sessions per week. I am writing this letter in regards
to discontinuation of my membership with your gym.

I am very thankful to your gym…

Avoid writing short simple sentences

In order to score six and above you need to show the examiner you have the ability to write
complex sentences. These are sentences that have a dependent and independent clause. If
you just write short simple sentences like the one below your score is limited to 5.

The advantages of this policy are obvious. It is beneficial for communities and societies in
general.

My comment: In would be better to write this as one sentence: “The advantages of this
policy for communities and societies are obvious. “

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He or she
If you write in plural you don't need to use this awkward expression “if people like it… they”;
instead of "if a person likes that he or she…"

Prepositions
Prepositions are used to locate something in time and space, modify a noun; or tell when or
where or under what conditions something happened. The following are guidelines for using
prepositions correctly. This covers many common situations.

Prepositions of Time: at, in, on

Preposition Usage Example

At at is for specific times The exam is at 12:15 PM

In in is for nonspecific times during a The exam is in the morning

day/month/year.

On on for days and dates The exam is on Monday.

The exam is on Christmas Day.

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 Prepositions of Place: at, in, on

Preposition Usage Example

At We use at for specific addresses. I live at 50 Pong Lai Road.

In We use in for the names of land-areas I live in Taipei.
(towns, counties, states, countries, and
continents).

On We use on for the names of streets, I live on Pong Lai Road.

avenues, etc.

Prepositions for describing our work:

at company’s I work at Comtrend

in departments in the marketing department, as a technical writer.

on projects I am working on a new manual

Tip!
To score well for grammar you need to not only avoid errors but also show
talent. You can do this by using a range of sentence types.

114
4. Task 2: Essay Writing
Model essays and how to write them!

115
 4.1. Overview
Writing Task 2 is designed to test your ability to write an academic style essay. You must
present the information in your own words as complete sentences within paragraphs. You
are required to write over 250 words, and the task should be completed in about 40
minutes (both part 1 and 2 must be finished in 1 hour).

Types of Topics

There are many different topics for essays in the exam, but typical topic areas include:
education, crime, media, technology, social issues, technology and the future, and the
environment. In this case it makes sense to build up vocabulary in these key areas in order
to have sufficient language to write an essay well.

Types of Questions

There are three main types of essay questions that are included in the IELTS writing exam. It
is important to learn how to structure each of these types. Each of these will be described
more fully in the sections that follow. Briefly, they are an opinion essay, where you are
asked to give your own personal opinion on a topic; a both sides and opinion essay, where
you are required to discuss both sides of an argument and then give your own personal
opinion on the topic; and a two question essay, which involves responding to two different
questions.

Tip!
Read the task carefully and make sure that you clearly understand
the topic and type of question before you start writing. This is
absolutely essential to score well in the writing test.

116
Sample question

How long you

WRITING TASK 2 should spend

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Topic
Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of

modern life is having a negative effect on families. Question
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from
your own knowledge or experience.
How many
Write at least 250 words. words you
should write

Note that most of the parts of the task are standardised. For instance, you are always advised
to spend about 40 minutes on the task and you are always required to write at least 250
words. In addition you are always advised to include relevant examples from your own
knowledge or experience. Note that this is not a requirement, and you do not lose marks for
not giving examples. Giving examples is only one way of supporting your main ideas.

The only part that changes for each task is the part shown in larger letters in the box in the
middle of the task [see above]. This consists of a topic and a question. The topic tells you
what you need to write your essay about, and the question tells you what you must say about
the topic.

117
Task sequence for IELTS essay writing
In order to complete your essay effectively and efficiently within the set time and conditions
of an IELTS exam you need to have a very clear and systematic approach to writing your
essays. From my experience as an examiner and teacher I recommend the following
approach. You may wish to modify this a little for your own personal style.

1. Read the Task.

This is a critical step that is often underestimated. Missing a single word in the instructions
might result in an essay that doesn't focus on the topic. For instance if the topic is about
young people and you only write about people in general then you will have a weak score
for task response. I also suggest you underline key words. This will help you to focus on
them and will also assist with the next step.

2. Rephrase keywords in the task instructions.

You need to rephrase the keywords that are given in the topic for two reasons. The main
reason is because if you do not, the examiner will put brackets around the words you have
copied from the task and these words will not be included in your word count. This may lead
to your essay being under length. As well as this, you should rephrase the keywords to show
your talent with vocabulary.

3. Establish the topic and the question type (there are three different types of questions).

You must focus on the topic and question to score well for task response.

4. Plan the structure of the answer

A good plan helps you to reduce the amount of time you need to write your essay and also
leads to a suitable structure. If you structure your essay well you will score well for cohesion
and coherence. As well as this it will be easier for the examiner to see the quality of your
task response.

118
5. Write your answer

If you have made a solid plan then the writing stage will go more quickly and smoothly.
Make sure you stick to your plan while writing. Also, do not think of additional points for
your essay while writing. Instead, utilise all of your brainpower on writing correct sentences
using correct language, so that you will have an essay that will score well for vocabulary and
grammar.

6. Proofread your answer if time permits

If you have any time at all left at the end of your exam, you should use it to proofread your
essay, so that you will have fewer errors with vocabulary and grammar. Focus on looking for
the common mistakes you make with your writing. Common ones are errors with subject
verb agreement, articles [a, an, the], and the “s” endings of words.

Tip!
Making a plan saves you time when you write your report
and ensures you cover all the key points using an
appropriate structure.

119
Grading of tasks

Criteria Requirement
Task Response write over 250 words
This criterion assesses how well satisfy all the requirements of the task
you have focused on the topic cover all parts of the topic
and answered the question. cover all parts of the question
develop main points
Coherence and Cohesion sequence information and ideas logically
This criterion assesses how well use a range of cohesive devices appropriately
you have structured your essay, use paragraphing appropriately
used paragraphing, and Have a clear progression throughout
avoid unnecessary repetition of information
connected your ideas.

Lexical Resource use of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and

This criterion assesses your precision
vocabulary in terms of errors and use less common vocabulary
also ability to use more advanced awareness of style and collocation
avoid errors with word choices
language.
avoid errors with word formation
avoid errors with spelling
Grammatical Range and uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
Accuracy produce error-free sentences
This criterion assesses your avoid errors with grammar and punctuation
grammar in terms of errors and
also ability to use more advanced
sentence structures.

120
 Comparing the three types of essays

Key question words

Opinion Both sides + opinion Two question Essay
What is your opinion? Discuss the advantages and What problem does this cause?
disadvantages What are some potential
Do you agree or disagree? solutions?
Discuss the advantages and
To what extent do you agree or disadvantages and give your own Do you agree?
disagree? opinion What are some other solutions?

Do you think the advantages Discuss both sides of this What are the causes of this
outweigh the disadvantages? argument and then give your own problem?
opinion.
What are some potential
solutions?

Example question
Opinion Both sides + opinion Two question Essay
Computers are being used more Computers are being used more Alcohol abuse is becoming more
and more in education and some and more in education. Some and more common in many
say there will soon be no role for people say that this is a positive countries.
the teacher in education. trend, while others argue that it is
leading to negative consequences.
What are some of the problems it
To what extent do you agree or Discuss both sides of this causes?
disagree? argument and then give your own What are some of the possible
opinion. solutions?

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Structuring the three types of essays

Introduction

Opinion Both sides + opinion Two question Essay

Rephrase question Rephrase question Rephrase question
Position = state whether you agree "This essay discusses…"+ "This essay discusses…" +
or disagree and the extent (how [both sides] and [opinion] [question 1] and [question 2]
much):

Body

Opinion Both sides + opinion Two question Essay

reason 1 Side 1 advantages question 1

reason 2 Side 2 advantages question 2

reason 3/concession (argument [Note: keep your opinion out of

against your main opinion) the body. It is only about what
people in general may think.]

Final paragraph
Opinion Both sides + opinion Two question Essay
Restating of your position + Your Opinion Summary of question 1 and 2
summary of reasons
State that both sides are
important/have merits
State which one is more
important/better

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EssayStructure

Body
Topic sentence (Topic + Point)
Introduction Supporting sentence Conclusion
Supporting sentence
General Statement Supporting sentence 2 Summary of

Specific Statement
1 Topic sentence (Topic + Point)
main points

Supporting sentence Final Statement

Supporting sentence
Supporting sentence

[An opinion essay may have a

third paragraph]

Point 1 above:

The diagram above shows how the last part of the introduction functions to influence the
main points of each body paragraph. These main points are usually given in the topic
sentence.

Point 2 above:

The diagram shows how the main points from the body get summarised in the conclusion of
the essay

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Parts of the essay

Further discussion is provided below on the structure of the essay, using the task below as
an example:

TOPIC:
Computers are being used more and more in education and some say there will
soon be no role for the teacher in education.

QUESTION:
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Introduction
You only need two sentences for your introduction. You may have learnt from other
teachers that you should include aspects such as a background to the situation, but you
need to bear in mind that this is a very short essay of only a little over 250 words and so you
want to keep your introduction brief. I suggest you just write a general statement and
specific statement as explained below.

General statement

The general statement is the topic that you need to write about. You can write this very
easily by just rephrasing the topic you are given. This is the best way to do this. Do not try to
be creative here, as you will not be rewarded for this and you risk lowering your score for
task response if you misstate the topic: with reference to the topic above:

Computers are being used more and more in education and

some say there will soon be no role for the teacher in
education.

GOOD REPHRASE: Some people believe technology may be used to replace teachers in the
future.

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BAD REPHRASE: Due to the rising prevalence of advanced technology computers are
becoming more useful. This misstates the topic because it is not about whether computers
are useful it is about whether they will replace teachers.

Too long a rephrase: Ever since the dawn of time, mankind has been finding ways to improve
their lives. More recently education has emerged as a very important aspect of human lives.
Therefore it is worthwhile to consider whether technology offers any advantages in the
classroom and whether they are more useful than the people who have trained for many
years as academic experts. Too long! It is like a history lesson, and this also makes the topic
a little unclear. If the writing is less clear then coherence is lowered. My key point here is
that big long introductions do more harm than good. In addition, it is better to spend more
time on the body of the essay, in order to show your ability to develop your main ideas
which increase your score for task response.

Specific statement

The specific statement comes from the question part of the task. What you write will
depend upon which of the three types of questions are asked. If the essay asks for your
opinion you should give this here. If the question asks for anything else you should start this
statement with this essay discussing and then rephrasing what you are asked for. Both of
these approaches are explained further below.

SpecificStatementforanopinionessay

QUESTION: To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This type of question needs to be responded to very precisely in the introduction. You need
to have made a plan for your essay and have a clear idea of what your opinion is. To fully
respond to all words in the question you need to mention the EXTENT or how much you
agree or disagree. Some choices are:

Totally agree

Somewhat agree

Equally agree and disagree [this is a risky choice that I think should be avoided]

Somewhat disagree

Totally disagree

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So the sentence will look something like:

I totally agree with this opinion [good and safe choice]

I totally agree that teachers should be replaced with computers [better as there is a fuller
sentence]

I totally agree that teachers should be replaced with computers because they are cheaper
and more convenient for students [best because it gives the examiner a clear idea of what
the essay is about. Paragraph 2 should be about cheaper, and paragraph 3 should be about
being more convenient].

SpecificStatementforanon-opinionessay = "this essay discusses" + rephrase of the

question

QUESTION: Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using computers in the classroom.

This essay discusses the merits and drawbacks of the use of computers in schools.

QUESTION: What are some disadvantages of using computers in the classroom? What are
some ways to overcome these disadvantages?

This essay discusses drawbacks with the use of computers in schools and also some ways to
solve them.

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Body

The body of the essay should logically fit with the introduction you gave for the essay. The
specific statement [last sentence of the introduction] should serve as a guide for the body of
the essay. For instance, if you said you totally agree in the introduction then the body
should consist of two or three paragraphs about why you agree. If you said you somewhat
agree then the body should be mostly about why you agree, but also have a concession,
which means that you are pointing out some arguments from the opposing side of your
main opinion. The body of an IELTS essay should usually consist of two or three paragraphs.
You need to have logical paragraphing to score well for cohesion and coherence.

Structureofthebodyofanessay

Opinion essay Both sides and opinion Two question essay

Reason 1 for opinion Side A Question 1

Reason 2 for opinion Side B Question 2

Reason 3 for opinion [Opinion is given in the

[optional] concluding paragraph ]

The structure of each paragraph needs to be logical and there should be ONE clear focus for
each paragraph. The best way to achieve a clear focus and to communicate this to the
examiner is by making this clear in the first sentence of each paragraph. This first sentence is
called the topic sentence. Topic sentences usually have two key parts, which are the topic of
the essay and the key point that this paragraph will discuss about this topic.

Topic sentence = topic + key point about the topic

Some examples of topic sentences relating to the previous task: QUESTION: Discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of using computers in the classroom.

There are several merits of the use of computers in schools.

topic = use of computers in schools

key point about the topic = merits

127
However, there are some important drawbacks with using computers in education.

topic = using computers in education

key point about the topic = drawbacks

The first sentence of each paragraph, often referred to as a topic sentence, introduces the
paragraph by stating and summarising the main point being made in the paragraph. Topic
sentences often contain transition signals, which aid in the smooth transition from one
paragraph to the next. This first sentence should inform the reader of the point you are
making and how this paragraph relates to the question. In fact, if the reader were to scan
your topic sentences, they should be able to obtain a sketch of the entire essay. This sketch
should show the logical progression of the points you are making. The absence of topic
sentences leaves the reader wondering what you are trying to say and why, ultimately
confusing the reader. Signposting is not limited to topic sentences. Signposting within your
paragraph also aids the reader. The following example illustrates the effective use of
signposts (signposts are underlined).

Finally, as with all models of learning, rote memorisation has limitations. Forexample, the
model implies that learning occurs in a serial processing form, whereas we know that
learning is a recursive process. Furthermore, the model fails to take into account motivation,
and social interaction as essential aspects of the learning process. Nevertheless, the model
gives educators many useful guidelines for considering how information can be structured to
facilitate learning.

Effective paragraphs have three important qualities.

UNITY: A paragraph should focus on one main idea.

DEVELOPMENT: this occurs when the idea is elaborated on in the paragraph. This
elaboration usually consists of explaining the key point adding details about it or giving an
example to illustrate it.

COHERENCE: This means everything in the paragraph should relate to and expand on the
point you are making.

128
Conclusion
Given that an IELTS essay is only a little over 250 words and you have limited time to write
your essay. It is important that you can write a brief but complete conclusion to your essay.

You need to send a SIGNAL to the examiner that you are making the conclusion to your
essay. I like the phrase in conclusion best. I suggest you just use this as it can be used for ALL
THREE types of essays. The more you can avoid the need to have to remember and correctly
apply different phrases for each type of essay the better. I really hate in a nutshell. I think
other people may hate this, so I don’t recommend it. It is not impressive; I feel it is a cliché,
or an overused phrase. I also don’t feel it is formal. If you say in summary or to summarise
my main points you will have to not use these phrases with certain types of essays. For
instance, with a both sides and opinion essay you are not really summarising your main
points in the final paragraph, you are giving your own opinion.

After the signal we have to apply two different structures depending on the type of essay.
We can separate these into two types, an opinion for a both sides and opinion essay and a
summary for an opinion essay or two question essay.

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Conclusionforeachtypeofessay

Opinion essay Both sides and opinion essay Two question essay
1. Restate whether you agree 1. State that both sides of the 1. Summarise the main
or disagree and also the argument are important/have points of question 1
extent. If your position is merits
somewhat agree/disagree 2. Summarise the main
then make sure you put the 2. State which one is more points of question 2.
side you support most first. important/better

2. Summarise the main 3. Say why. Justify your

reasons for your opinion selection. This is the key to
[summarise the main reasons reaching grade 7 and above
from the body of your for task response. Remember
essay]. that YOUR opinion is one of
the three parts of the question
3. Say something more. and although this paragraph
Ideally if you still have time may be briefer than the body
try to write one more paragraphs it is a very
sentence to give a final important one.
opinion or recommendation
based on your summary.
This is the difference
between a good conclusion
and an excellent one!
In conclusion, I totally In conclusion, I believe both In conclusion, the main
disagree that machines can sides of the argument have problems with using
replace teachers. This is their merits. On balance, computers in schools are
because teachers can however, I tend to believe that that students get distracted
encourage students to learn the advantages of studying from studying and they use
and teach them how to using a computer outweigh them to access
interact with other people. those made possible by a inappropriate content. These
teacher. This is because it is can be overcome by
cheaper and more convenient educators monitoring their
to study online. students closely and by
restricting the websites they
can access.

130
Planning your essays

On a few occasions I have been an invigilator (person to make sure no one is cheating!) in
the writing exam. I was amazed to see that about 10% just started writing their essays
without writing any plan first. Afterwards, I asked some of my students who were attending
why they didn’t write a plan. “Oh we thought we didn’t have time to do it.”

The plan serves three purposes. First, it helps you think about the main points you will write,
so it increases your score for Task Response. Second, it helps you structure your essay
better, so it increases your score for Cohesion and Coherence. Finally, it saves you time.
That’s right! By making a plan first, you won’t have to keep stopping to think what you will
write next.

Each essay question is composed of two parts. The TOPIC, which is what the essay is about;
and the TASK, which is what sort of essay you need to write. There are three main types of
essays. The first asks your opinion, or do you agree or disagree. The second asks you to
explain two sides of an argument and then give your own personal opinion on that topic.
The third asks you two questions; for example, “discuss the problems and solutions.”

You should learn how to plan for all three types of essays. You can practice your planning by
looking at past exam questions and thinking what would be your main points and how
would you structure the essay.

131
Tasks that include examples

If the task mentions "for instance" or "for example", that means you don't have to
specifically mention those items. So you don't have to talk about sport or music you could
talk about art instead

It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, forinstanceforsport or
music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to
become a good sports person or musician.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Tasks that include two parts [usually signalled by "and"]

For the task below, the topic includes two parts and both must be referred to in the body of
the essay. These two parts are cheaper and easier. You need to include both to get to 6 for
task response and you need to cover both of them well to get to 7 and above.

These days, due to advances in technology, it is cheaper and easier to travel abroad.

Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

132
 4.2. Opinion essay

This type of essay tests your ability to state an opinion on an issue and then support it with
logical reasons. To score well you need to explain your reasons clearly and use examples to
illustrate the key points you are trying to make.

Typical question words

What is your opinion?

Do you agree or disagree?

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

To what extent do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample task

Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a
negative effect on families.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

133
Task Analysis
It is important to realise that every task contains a topic and a question. You must fully
address both the topic and the question to score six and above for task response. An
analysis of the topic and question is provided below:

Topic: Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is
having a negative effect on families.

Whenever you see the word and in the topic you must address both parts of this question. In
this case the essay must address both the fast pace and stress of modern life in order to reach
six and above for task response. Failure to address both parts of the topic results in a task
response of five or below. This is because not all parts of the topic have been addressed.

Question: To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The question also has two requirements. You must state whether you agree or disagree and
also the extent, or how much, you agree or disagree. In order to score a six and above you
need to clearly state your response to the question including the extent to which you agree
or disagree. In order to make your opinion clear I believe it is best to give your opinion in
both the introduction and conclusion of the essay. Do not forget to mention the extent!
Even if the question does not ask the extent, for instance it just asks do you agree or
disagree, I still believe it is a good idea to state the extent. You can give the extent using
words like totally or completely if you 100% agree or disagree; or somewhat or partly, if you
do not fully agree or disagree. I strongly urge you to not 50-50 agree and disagree. This
usually ends up being unconvincing and unclear.

134
Planning your essay

1. Underline key vocabulary in the topic and write words with the same or

related meaning.

Some people believe that the fastpace and stress of modernlife is having a

high-speed pressure contemporary lifestyles

negative effect on families.

harmful influence family life

2. Decide what kind of response is needed.

To what extent do you agree or disagree? = say how much you agree or

disagree

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer.

Agree with negative effect on Disagree with negative effect on families

families

Fast pace leads to less time for Due to the increased time pressure and stress families
families to be together are forced to cooperate more, which brings them
closer together

Stress leads to arguments among

family members

135
4. Decide on your position (totally agree, somewhat agree, somewhat disagree,

totally disagree)

You do not need to give arguments for both sides of the topic. It is up to you, as it is your
opinion. Rather than thinking about your real opinion, I suggest you look at the points
you have brainstormed for each side of the argument, and then choose a side that you
think will be the easiest to explain, and for which you have the better language to use.
Remember this is a language test and not a test of your knowledge. The key point is to
focus on language and structuring your whole task well.

5. Decide on the structure of the essay

Based on your position (extent you agree or disagree) put numbers next to each of the
points you have brainstormed above in the order you will cover them. You should always
cover the side you support more strongly first in the body of the essay. Also, you should
always organise your points from strongest and weakest.

136
Steps in writing your essay

Once you have written a solid plan for your essay, you can begin the task of actually writing
the essay. Having a good plan will speed up this process and ensure that you are consistent
with your opinion throughout the essay. What I mean here is that the opinion you give in
the introduction will fit the body of the essay, and the conclusion will restate the same
opinion you gave in the introduction and summarise the body of the essay. If you achieve
this high level of fit, you are likely to score well for task response and cohesion and
coherence.

WRITING THE INTRODUCTION

1. Paraphrase the question

Given that you have already rephrased the keywords of the topic, in the planning stage, this
step should be relatively easy. When you do write this sentence, in addition to rephrasing
words also try to rearrange the order of words in the sentence. This may necessitate
changing some of the word forms. For instance you might have to change nouns into verbs.
This shows the examiner your ability to use language flexibly and can increase your score for
vocabulary and grammar.

Some people believe that the fastpace and stress of modernlife is having a
negative
high-speed pressure contemporary lifestyles
harmful

effect on families.

influence family life

Many people feel that family life is being harmed by the high-speed and
pressure of contemporary lifestyles.

137
2. State your position [totally/strongly/somewhat + agree/disagree]

it is important to state your position in the introduction of the essay because it makes it
clearer for the examiner what your position is and also when the examiner reads the body
of your essay they already have an overall idea of what your essay is about. Then, in the
likely event that you have errors with vocabulary and grammar they may be less serious
because the examiner will have more of a context in order to guess the meaning of what
you are trying to express. You can simply state your opinion, and this may be best if you
only need a score of around six or seven and you struggle to finish your essay on time.
However you can state your opinion and also the reasons. If you are trying to get to 8 I
believe it is better to state both your opinion and the reasons. Although this will slightly
increase the word length, this adds to the quality of your introduction, and also assists your
task response as the introduction and conclusion of your essay are considered as important
in establishing a clear task response.

I somewhat agree with this opinion because the fast pace leads to less time for families to be
together, stress leads to arguments among family members;however, due to the increased
time pressure and stress families are forced to cooperate more, which brings them closer
together.

[I realise this is quite long and it may be beyond some writers. This is why a sentence of this
quality can enable a candidate to get to level eight or nine]

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BODY

After you have written the introduction, you will need two or three body paragraphs. For
this type of essay, I suggest putting only one reason in each paragraph. A good paragraph
should only have one main idea. You may write only two paragraphs if you are a person who
likes to explain things in detail and use illustrative examples. If you prefer, you can write
three shorter paragraphs. Whether you write two or three paragraphs may depend on the
question and also the quality of points you have brainstormed. Personally, I would use three
paragraphs if I were writing about both sides of the argument. This is because it is safest to
have two paragraphs for the side you support more strongly and only one paragraph for the
side you support less. This structure ensures your opinion is supported well, and prevents
the risk of the body of the essay not matching your opinion. What I mean here is that
sometimes someone says they somewhat agree, but then go on to argue more strongly
about why they disagree. This sends both your task response and coherence and cohesion
tumbling down!

1. Write topic sentences for each body paragraph

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence. For this type of essay the topic
sentence consists of three parts, which are the sequencing word, topic, and reason to
support the opinion.

Sequencing word + topic + reason

The main reason why I believe family life is being compromised is because families
have less time to be with each other.

2. Write supporting sentences for the topic sentences

You can think of the topic sentence you have just written as being the introduction for the
paragraph. It introduces the reason for your opinion, which forms the key point for the
paragraph. Having a clear key point for the paragraph makes it easy for the examiner to
understand what you are saying in the paragraph. In addition, if the key point of the
paragraph is clear any errors with vocabulary or grammar will be less likely to prevent
communication. This is because the examiner will have more of a context to guess any parts
that are unclear. After you have written the topic sentence, you should support it by
developing the key point. There are three ways to develop your key point: Explanation,
example, adding details

Explanation: As individual family members are busier at work and with their social lives they
have less time to spend with their family.

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Adding details: As well as this, people have many things they have to do these days such as
checking e-mail, updating their online social status and so less time is left for family life.

Example: To illustrate, I spend about two hours online every night attending to daily
correspondence before chatting with my family members, whereas ten years ago I would
spend time with my family from the moment I walked in the door.

[The example above could just consist of the first sentence. However, to fully make the point the second
sentence is needed. This is the difference between a level 6 writer and a more competent writer.]

CONCLUSION

In order to write an excellent conclusion, you should start by using a phrase that signals you
are concluding your essay. Then, you should restate the position to reinforce it in the mind
of the examiner. After this you should summarise the main points you made in the body of
the essay because this is a standard feature of a concluding paragraph and also it will
remind the examiner of your key points and make your opinion more persuasive. Finally if
you want to write a truly outstanding conclusion, and you have enough time, you could give
a final comment based on your summary. If you are short of time just try to complete as
many of the steps below that time permits. Note that if you are aware you are running out
of time when writing the body of the essay, try to finish the body quickly and at least write
something for this paragraph. If you do not have some sort of concluding paragraph the
essay will be incomplete and the examiner may penalise you for cohesion and coherence. It
will also make it difficult to get a high score for task response because the concluding
paragraph is an important factor in assessing the task response.

Send a signal you are concluding your essay

I like in conclusion. This is a universally accepted way to finish an academic essay. There are
other choices but this works well and can be used for all three types of essays. Some
students think it is boring to use this phrase. However, keep in mind there are no marks for
creativity and flair. You are not doing creative writing; instead you are taking a language
exam. Every time I read phrases like in a nutshell, I am not impressed; in fact, the word yuck
comes to mind! You can use phrases like to summarise; the reason why I'm against these is
because they do not fit my structure for a both sides and opinion essay (for that essay the
final paragraph will be your opinion and not a summary). I believe it is better to have a
standard phrase that you can use for all three essays to avoid the need to remember
different ones and to correctly applied them under pressure in the exam.

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Restate your position

You should restate your opinion along with the extent. This is good essay writing. This is the
way it's done. Many students don't want to do this and feel they have already said it, so
they don't want to say it again. Up to you! I believe you should restate your opinion.

I somewhat believe that the rapid pace and stressful nature of contemporary lifestyles are
having negative consequences on family relationships.

Summarise the main points

If you have time it is very helpful for your task response to summarise the reasons for your
opinion. Note that you should ideally use different words and phrases than in the body of
your essay. If you do this well it can increase your score for vocabulary because it shows the
examiner your range of vocabulary.

This is because family members have less time, and when they are together they feel less
relaxed. However, I admit that sometimes adversity can bring people closer together.

Give your final opinion or recommendation/ restate your position

If you have time, based on a summary, give your final opinion or make a recommendation.
This is a way to really show the examiner your talent and reach a score of 8 or 9 for task
response. This will really impress the examiner as it will show your understanding of what
you've written and your ability to make further comment on it. This is a high-level language
function.

Given this situation it seems that family members should try to be more supportive to one
another and also parents need to set aside regular times for families to relax together.

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Model essay version 1: somewhat agree
Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a
negative effect on families.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many people feel that family life is being harmed by the high-speed and pressure of
contemporary lifestyles. Isomewhatagreewiththisopinion because the fast pace leads to less
time for families to be together, and stress leads to arguments among family members;
however, due to the increased time pressure and stress families are forced to cooperate
more, which brings them closer together.

ThemainreasonwhyIbelieve family life is being compromised is because families have less

time to be with each other. As individual family members are busier at work and with their
social lives, they have less time to spend with their family. As well as this, people have many
things they have to do these days such as checking e-mail, updating their online social status
and so less time is left for family life. To illustrate, I spend about two hours online every night
attending to daily correspondence before chatting with my family members, whereas ten
years ago I would spend time with my family from the moment I walked in the door.

Inaddition, the pressure of life these days means that even when families do get together
arguments are more likely. This is because everyone feels tired and they are more likely to
get irritated and to react to their heightened emotional levels.

However, it does seem reasonable that this pressure may also lead to positive outcomes.
One such possibility is that family members will cooperate more in order to overcome time
limitations. For instance, they may share household chores, so that everybody has time to
relax afterwards.

Inconclusion, Isomewhatbelieve that the rapid pace and stressful nature of contemporary
lifestyles are having negative consequences on family relationships. This is because family
members have less time, and when they are together they feel less relaxed. However, I admit
that sometimes adversity can bring people closer together. Given this situation, it seems that
family members should try to be more supportive to one another and also parents need to
set aside regular times for families to relax together.

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Comments about the previous model essay

You may have noticed that the previous essay was rather long. It was about 340 words. This
is because of a high level of paragraph development in paragraph 2. Paragraph development
can increase the score for task response and also cohesion and coherence. However, if we
do a lot of paragraph development we should consider having fewer paragraphs. The
following model has only two body paragraphs. In addition, it only covers one side of the
argument [totally agree/disagree]. I believe this is a better approach because it is more
persuasive and there is less risk that when you cover the other side of the argument you
end up contradicting what you have previously said. It also means that your introduction
and conclusion will be shorter because there are fewer things you have to mention.

Template for opinion essay

The template below has been used to write the second version of the essay.

Introduction

There is currently a contentious argument over whether XYZ [XYZ is the topic]

I totally agree/disagree with this opinion because [reason 1 + reason 2]

Paragraph 2

The main reason why I believe/don't believe XYZ is because… [reason 1]

Paragraph 3

Another reason why I support/don't support the notion that XYZ is due to the fact that…
[reason 2]

Conclusion

In conclusion, I completely agree/disagree that XYZ because [rephrase reason 1] and

[rephrase reason 2].

Given this situation, it seems that [give a final recommendation or opinion]

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Model essay version 2: totally agree

Some people believe that the fast pace and stress of modern life is having a
negative effect on families.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Thereiscurrentlyacontentiousargumentoverwhether family life is being harmed by the high-

speed and pressure of contemporary lifestyles. Itotallyagreewiththisopinionbecause the fast
pace leads to less time for families to be together, and stress leads to arguments among
family members.

ThemainreasonwhyIbelieve family life is being compromised is because families have less

time to be with each other. This is due to family members being busier at work and with
their social lives. As well as this, people have many things they have to do these days such as
checking e-mail, updating their online social status and so less time is left for family life. To
illustrate, I spend about two hours online every night attending to daily correspondence
before chatting with my family members, whereas ten years ago I would spend time with my
family as soon as I walked in the door.

AnotherreasonwhyIsupportthenotionthat families are being impacted negatively is that the

pressure of life these days means that even when families do get together arguments are
more likely. This is because everyone feels tired and they are more likely to get irritated and
to react to their heightened emotional levels.

Inconclusion,Icompletelyagreethat the rapid pace and stressful nature of contemporary

lifestyles are having negative consequences on family relationships. This is because family
members have less time, and when they are together they feel less relaxed. Giventhis
situation,itseemsthat family members should try to be more supportive to one another and
also parents need to set aside regular times for families to relax together. [281 words]

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4.3. Model essay version 3: Outweigh

Many people believe that the government should encourage industries and businesses to
move from large cities to the countryside.

Do you think that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Nowadays, there is a contentious issue regarding whether the authorities should provide
incentives for factories and other companies to relocate from metropolitan areas to rural
sites. In my opinion the merits outweigh the drawbacks.

There are considerablebenefits to locating companies in regional areas. For businesses

themselves they can have a significant decline in costs, such as the leases on premises, which
are usually dramatically higher in the big cities. It is also likely to benefit rural communities
by boosting their economies and providing job opportunities in the neighbourhood and
preventing the need for them to make a long commute to work in the city. Finally, by
locating businesses in remote areas it can benefit cities by reducing overcrowding, traffic
congestion, and pollution levels.

However, there are potentialdrawbacks to companies and businesses moving their premises
outside metropolises. The main issue is that companies located in regional areas may be
further away from their employees. This can make it more difficult to find labour to work in
the company. As well as this, the companies may be located further away from their
customers, which might weaken their relationships with their customers.

In conclusion, the merits to businesses relocating in more remote areas seem to outweigh
the drawbacks as it can benefit the companies themselves, the local communities, and also
the metropolitan areas. However, companies may face challenges to find labour and
maintain close relationships with their customers. Given this situation it seems that the
government should offer incentives to encourage companies to relocate to the countryside.
[256 words]

Notes:
1. With this particular type of opinion question (outweigh) it is safer to cover both sides of the argument.

2. As with other opinion essays you MUST clearly express your opinion about which side outweighs the other
in the introduction and conclusion. In this case it is whether the advantages are greater than the
disadvantages.

3. Note that the conclusion ends with a recommendation. More sample questions of opinion essays.

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More sample questions of opinion essays

Some people believe that arts like museums and art galleries are not essential for a society
and they should not be funded by the government.

What is your opinion?

More and more students choose to move to other countries to study their higher education.

Do you think the advantages of this outweigh its disadvantages?

Some people believe that local shopping markets are the best places to shop, while others
believe that modern shopping centres are better.

Do the advantages of local markets outweigh the disadvantages?

To improve road safety there should be more severe punishments for drivers who break the
rules.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is believed that people who read a lot of novels have developed better imagination and
language skills than people who prefer to watch TV.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

There are many reasons that can motivate a person to stay working for the same company.
Some believe that money is the main reason.

Do you agree or disagree?

Some believe that those who are not talented in language learning should not be required
to learn a foreign language.

What is your opinion?

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COMMON MISTAKES

Unclear opinion
In the example below the candidate fails to fully make clear their opinion in the introduction.
The examiner can only guess that the candidate agrees, and has no idea of the extent. In this
case this is not a good introduction, and this has a negative effect on task response and also
cohesion and coherence.

Television has brought great changes to the way many children spend their
leisure time. Many people believe these changes have been beneficial.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Thecandidatewrites:
Nowadays, children spend a lot of time watching television. It seems that there are a wider
variety of television shows and many more channels.

Choosing the wrong side to argue

For opinion essays I don't think you should think about what you really believe, you should
think which side is easier to argue and use high-level language. In other words, the best side
to choose is the one that you can maximize your score for the four grading criteria.

Contradicting your opinion

The example below shows how an opinion can easily be contradicted in the conclusion of an
essay. The writer contradicts the opinion stated in the introduction that they somewhat
disagree with the widespread use of technology, by stating in the conclusion that
technology needs to be learnt.

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Today, more and more young children have electronic gadgets such as computers and
mobile phones. Some people say that this is a positive development. Do you agree or
disagree?

The candidate writes a contradicting opinion

In summary, althoughitisnecessaryforchildrentolearntousethesedevicesatayoungage I
somewhat disagree that the widespread use of computers among children is a positive
development.

Errors when making concessions

Essays that ask for your opinion have words in the question such as “to what extent do you
agree;” “what is your opinion;” “do you agree or disagree.” My advice to students is always
to say that you totally agree/disagree and only focus on one side of the argument. I would
only write “somewhat agree/disagree” if I didn't have enough things to say about one side
of the argument. I have three main reasons for this.

First, it is more persuasive to totally agree/disagree and therefore leads to a higher score for
task response. This is because when the examiner thinks about the extent you have
convinced them of your opinion it is more powerful when you have just argued about one
side.

The second reason is because it is much easier to structure an essay this way and it is easier
to write it. In this case you are more likely to have fewer issues with cohesion and
coherence and it will take less time to write the essay.

The third reason is because it is less likely you will end up arguing against yourself. I have read
many essays where the writer says they “somewhat agree” but then they have gone on to
write the body of the essay and less has been mentioned about agreeing than disagreeing. In
this case, your score for task response will be limited to 6 because your opinion does not
match the main points of your essay. As well as this your score for cohesion and coherence
may be lowered because confusion may be created in the mind of the reader.

Finally, concessions (where you argue against your main position) can lead to total
confusion when the candidate makes errors with grammar and vocabulary. In other words it
is risky to write a concession because if you make errors with vocabulary and grammar the
meaning can be totally unclear and then your score will go spiralling down for all four
criteria.

148
 4.4. Both sides and opinion essay
This type of essay tests your ability to discuss both sides of an argument and also give your
own opinion and then support it with logical reasons. To score well you need to argue both
sides of an argument clearly and give your own opinion along with a logical justification for
it.

Typical question words

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion

Discuss both sides of this argument and then give your own opinion

Sample task
Some people think that the education system should only focus on preparing
students for employment, while others believe it has other important
functions.

Discuss both sides and then give your own opinion.

Task analysis
It is important to realise that every task contains a topic and a question. You must fully
address both the topic and the question to score six and above for task response. An
analysis of the topic and question is provided below:

Topic: Some people think that the education system should only focus on
preparing students for employment, while others believe it has other
important functions.

This type of topic always expresses two points of view. It is important to always see what
the two points of view are. In this case the topic of the essay is about whether schools
should only prepare students for their future careers or not. In other words it is careers
purposes vs. other purposes.

149
Question: Discuss both sides and then give your own opinion.

The question has three requirements. You must discuss each side of the argument from a
neutral point of view and then give your opinion, which is your view on the argument. In
order to score a six and above you need to make sure you meet all three requirements of
the question. To get to 7 you must answer all three requirements fully. In order to make
your opinion clear I believe it is best to keep you opinion out of the introduction and body of
the essay. If you put it into the introduction you risk making it sound like the essay is just
about your opinion, which is misleading to the reader. If you put your opinion in the body of
the essay, then you risk it becoming unclear to the examiner whether you have completed
all three requirements. Essentially it becomes difficult to see both sides and your opinion. I
believe it is best to hold your opinion for the conclusion of the essay. A typical error
students make is to not say sufficient about their opinion. One sentence is clearly not
enough to get to 7.

Planning your essay

1. Underline key vocabulary in the topic and write words with the same or

related meaning.

Some people think that the educationsystem should only focuson

preparing students
schools concentrate on getting
pupils ready

for employment, while others believe it has other importantfunctions.

career additional purposes

2. Decide what kind of response is needed.

Discuss both sides and then give your own opinion = you need to give
reasons to support each side of the argument and then give your own
personal opinion on the argument.

150
 3. Brainstorm key points for the answer [two main points for each side of the

argument is ideal]

Only preparing students for careers Other functions

Leads to better careers and more $$$ Skills - to make the students well-rounded, such as
communication skills and how to use technology

Leads to a better workforce which gives benefits Morals and ethics - to make the society better
to society

Your opinion

1. Both sides of the argument are merits

[Link] strongly support other functions

…because if the students are well-rounded they

will be more successful in their lives and
contribute more to society

4. Decide on the structure of the essay

This essay is easy to structure for every question you can always structure it as

follows:

Paragraph 1: Introduction

Paragraph 2: Side A of the argument [Only preparing students for careers]

Paragraph 3: Side B of the argument [Other functions]

Paragraph 4: Conclusion [your opinion]

151
Steps in writing your essay
Once you have written a solid plan for your essay, you can begin the task of actually writing
the essay. Having a good plan will speed up this process and ensure that you meet all three
requirements of this type of question [both sides and your opinion]. It will also ensure that
you have a good balance for the essay. What I mean here is that you should cover both sides
of the argument roughly equally. So, if you plan two points for each side of the argument
this will help you to achieve it.

INTRODUCTION

1. Paraphrase the question

Given that you have already rephrased the keywords of the topic, in the planning stage, this
step should be relatively easy. When you write this sentence, in addition to rephrasing
words also try to rearrange the order of words in the sentence. This may necessitate
changing some of the word forms. For instance you might have to change nouns into verbs.
This shows the examiner your ability to use language flexibly and can increase your score for
vocabulary and grammar.

Some people think that the educationsystem should only focuson

preparing students
schools concentrate on getting
pupils ready

for employment, while others believe it has other importantfunctions.

career additional purposes

Many people feel that getting pupils ready for their careers should be the
main focus of schools, where as others believe that schools should have
additional purposes.

152
2. Say what the essay is about

This sentence can always be written the same for every question of this type, as follows:

This essay discusses both sides of this argument, and then I will give my
own perspective.

Nothing more is required in the introduction. You should try to memorise a sentence like
this for this type of essay because you will be able to write it very quickly and without any
errors with vocabulary and grammar. The introduction for this type of essay is the easiest of
the three types of essays. If you want to use a slightly different sentence:

The purpose of this essay is to analyse both sides of this argument and
then I will give my own perspective.

153
BODY

After you have written the introduction, you will need exactly two body paragraphs. You
want a paragraph for each side of the argument. I suggest putting exactly two main points in
each paragraph. A good paragraph should only have one main idea. The main idea of each
paragraph is the side of the argument that it is focused on. After this you have two main
points to support each side. You can then support each of these main points by explaining it
or giving an example to illustrate it. In order to keep the size of your essay manageable, you
might choose to have a major and minor point in each paragraph. The major point may use
three sentences and the minor point 2 sentences. For instance, you might use this structure:

S1 topic sentence: make it clear which side of the argument you are discussing

s2: make the first main point

s3: explain the main point

s4: give an example to illustrate the main point

s5: make a second main point

s6: explain or give an example to illustrate the second main point

1. Write topic sentences for each body paragraph

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence. The topic sentence should make it
clear to the reader which side of the argument the paragraph is about.

There are merits of schools only focusing on preparing young people for their working
lives.

154
2. Write supporting sentences for the topic sentences

You can think of the topic sentence you have just written as being the introduction for the
paragraph. It introduces which side of the argument the paragraph is focusing on, which
forms the key point for the paragraph. Having a clear key point for the paragraph makes it
easy for the examiner to understand what you are saying in the paragraph. In addition, if the
key point of the paragraph is clear any errors with vocabulary or grammar will be less likely
to prevent communication. This is because the examiner will have more of a context to
guess any parts that are unclear. After you have written the topic sentence, you should
support it by developing the key point. There are three ways to develop your key point:
Explanation, example, adding details

Explanation: If young people are better prepared for their careers they will be more
successful in their working lives.

Adding details: As well as this, they will also make more money and be able to support
themselves better.

Example: To illustrate, some recent stories in the media highlighted that students who finish
high school are less likely to be unemployed, and more likely to earn higher salaries.

155
CONCLUSION

You should always signal the start of your concluding paragraph to the reader by using the
words "In conclusion". Do not write "to summarise" or similar to begin this paragraph as you
are not doing this; you are giving your own opinion. For this type of essay you should follow
this with a phrase to make it clear that this final paragraph is about your opinion ….I believe.
Generally your opinion can consist of three parts. The first part states that there are merits
of both sides of the argument, which makes sense given that you have discussed these in
the body of your essay. Second, you should give your opinion on the argument. The best
way to do this is to say which side you support more strongly. Third, you should give a
justification for your opinion. In other words you should state the reason why you more
strongly support this side of the argument.

Essentially the structure is as follows:

1. Signal the start of your final paragraph.

2. State that both sides of the argument have merits.

3. Say which side you support more strongly.

4. Give a justification for supporting this side more strongly.

156
Model essay 1:

Some people think that the education system should only focus on preparing
students for employment, while others believe it has other important
functions.

Discuss both sides and then give your own opinion.

Many people feel that getting pupils ready for their careers should be the main
focus of schools, where as others believe that schools should have additional
purposes. This essay discusses both sides of this argument and then I will give
my own perspective.

There are merits of schools only focusing on preparing young people for their
working lives. If young people are better prepared for their careers they will be
more successful in their working lives. As well as this, they will also make more
money and be able to support themselves better. To illustrate, some recent
stories in the media highlighted that students who finish high school are less
likely to be unemployed, and more likely to earn higher salaries. In addition, by
schools preparing young people for jobs there will be a better prepared
workforce. This benefits society by raising productivity and ensuring that
employers have the necessary labour they need.

However, there are also advantages of schools having other functions. First of
all, they should teach students skills to make them well-rounded. By teaching
communication skills and how to use technology the students will be better
rounded individuals. Clearly, these are important skills in today's society and so
they should be learnt at school. As well as this schools should teach morals and
ethics because this will make the society better. Many people feel that this
aspect of schooling has become neglected, and has led to a deterioration of
society.

In conclusion, Ibelieve both sides of the argument have their merits. On

balance, however, it seems that schools should have other functions. This is
because if the students are well-rounded they will be more successful in their
lives and contribute more to society.

157
Template for a both sides and opinion essay
The template below contains about 130 words. The advantage of this template is that it
can be used for any type of both sides and opinion essay. Memorising and using this
template can help you to speed up the writing of your essay [you have less language to
think of], and also help you to increase your score as you have a lower proportion of
errors [this is error-free language], and also increase your score for vocabulary and
grammar because the template has high-level vocabulary and grammar embedded in it..

INTRODUCTION

A highly controversial issue today relates to ……………. In this essay, I am going

to examine this question from both points of view and then give my own

opinion on the matter.

BODY PARAGRAPH 1

On one side of the argument there are people who argue that the benefits of

……………. considerably outweigh its disadvantages. The main reason for

believing this is that …………………. It is also possible to say that ……. One good

illustration of this is ………….

BODY PARAGRAPH 2

On the other hand, it is also possible to make the opposing case. It is often

argued that in fact ……….. People often have this opinion because …………… A

second point is that ………..A particularly good example here is…………..

CONCLUSION

In conclusion, I believe both arguments have their merits. On balance, however,

I feel that… This is because….

158
Model essay 2: [based on the template on the previous page]

Some people believe that there should be the death penalty for
extremely serious crimes. Others believe that it is not morally
correct to kill criminals.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

A highly controversial issue today relates to capitalpunishment. In this essay, I am

going to examine this question from both points of view and then give my own
opinion on the matter.

On one side of the argument there are people who argue that the benefits of killing
violentcriminals considerably outweigh its disadvantages. The main reason for
believing this is that thefearof executionactsasadeterrenttocommitserious crimes
suchasrapeandmurder. It is also possible to say that theexecutionofa
criminalmaybringrelieftothesufferingvictims. One good illustration of this is when
[Link] rule
expressedjoyandreliefwhenhewasfinallycapturedandkilled.

On the other hand, it is also possible to make the opposing case. It is often argued
that in fact sentencingcriminalstodeathisjustcommittinganothermurder. People often
have this opinion because theythinkthatitisimmoraltotakeanotherperson’s life,no
matterwhatthereasonis. A second point is that manyreligionsareopposed toanyformof
murder. A particularly good example here is fromthebible,whichlists
killinganotherpersonasoneoftheTenCommandmentsthatshouldnotbebroken.

In conclusion, I believe both arguments have their merits. On balance, however, I feel
that [Link]
deterringcrimeismoreimportantthantakingthemoralhighground. [267 words]

159
More Sample Questions
There are two main types of questions here. The first kind requires you to
discuss the advantages and disadvantages of one thing and the second kind
asks you to discuss the advantages of two different things.

Situation one: discuss the advantages and disadvantages of one thing.

Computers are being used more and more in education. Discuss the
advantages and disadvantages of computers and then give your opinion.

The structure is:

Introduction

advantages of computers

disadvantages of computers

your opinion

Situation two: discuss the advantages of two different things

Some people say that learning online is the best way to learn, whereas some
claim that it is still better to attend a class with a teacher. Discuss both sides of
this argument and then give your opinion

The structure is:

Introduction

advantages of online learning

advantages of teachers

your opinion

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More sample tasks for both sides and opinion essays

These days, many people live or work overseas in a different country than they were born
in.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your own opinion.

Technology allows food to be produced in greater quantities and at lower prices. Some
people believe this is a positive development, while others feel that the change is harmful.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

It is more important to spend public money on promoting a healthy lifestyle, in order to

prevent illness rather than to spend it on the treatment of people who are already ill.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your own opinion.

Some people think that development in technology causes environmental problems. Other
people believe that technology can solve environmental problems.

Discuss both sides of the argument and then give your opinion.

Some people believe that to improve public health more public sports facilities should be
provided by the government; others believe that this will have little effect and other
measures are needed to improve people's health.

Discuss both sides of the argument and then give your opinion.

Some people think computers and the Internet are important in children’s study, but others
think students are usually distracted by these and they should not be used during class time.

Discuss both sides of this argument and give your own opinion.

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Common mistakes

Putting your opinion in the introduction of the essay

For this type of essay it is best to keep your opinion for the final paragraph. Writing this here
makes it seem like this essay is just about your opinion. Instead you should write: "This
essay discusses both sides of this argument and then I will give my own perspective."

Some people think that spending a lot on holding wedding parties, birthday
parties and other celebrations is just a waste of money. Others, however,
think that these are necessary for individuals and the society.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Thecandidatewritesamisleadingintroductionbelow:

Today, holding parties or other activities is a common practice for individuals and
organisations to celebrate some special events. Some people, however, claim that these
celebrations are wasteful, while others argue that they have favourable effects on
individuals and the [Link],Ibelievethatholdingthesecelebrationsdoesmore
goodthanharm.

Putting your opinion in the body of the essay

The question asks for both views and your opinion. Try to have three clear responses. Hold
your opinion until the final paragraph. It is extremely dangerous to mix your opinion with
one of the sides because some examiners will then feel you have not satisfactorily
completed the task of both sides and your opinion. They might think you have only
discussed one side and your opinion. It's very risky to mix your opinion with the discussion
of one side of the argument. Taking this risk may mean you will not get to 7 for task
response; it will depend on the examiner's interpretation. To get rid of this risk I suggest you
structure the essay the way I have outlined, with your opinion given in the final paragraph
only. You can see the previous model essay in this section for examples of this.

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Not writing enough for your opinion
With a both sides and opinion essay, your opinion is one of the three requirements of the
task. You must give more than a sentence for your opinion. In addition, you should not only
say what your opinion is but also give the reason. You can see the previous model essay in
this section for examples of this. I suggest you say the following:

1. Start with a signal "In conclusion, I believe…"

2. State that both sides of the argument are important/have merits

3. State which one is more important/better

4. Say why. Justify your selection. This is the key to reaching 7 and above for task response.
Remember that YOUR opinion is one of the three parts of the question and although this
paragraph may be briefer than the body paragraphs it is a very important one.

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 4.5. Two question essay
This type of question sometimes also known as a problem and solution essay. I do not call it
this because it is not always about problems and solutions. This type of question tests your
ability to discuss two aspects of an issue. To score well you must answer BOTH questions
well. Therefore you should respond to each of the questions equally.

Sample question words

What problem does this cause?

What are some potential solutions?

What are the causes of this problem?

What are some potential solutions?

Do you agree or disagree?

What are some solutions?

Sample task
Some people think that in the future lots of changes will occur that will
improve our society.
Do you agree or disagree?

What kind of changes will occur?

Task analysis
It is important to realise that every task contains a topic and a question. You must fully
address both the topic and the question to score six and above for task response. An
analysis of the topic and question is provided below:

Topic: Some people think that in the future lots of changes will occur that will
improve our society.

Question 1: Do you agree or disagree?

Question 2: What kind of changes will occur?

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Planning the essay

1. Underline key vocabulary in the topic and write words with the same or

related meaning.

Some people think that in the future lots of changeswilloccur that will

in the years to come developments are going to happen

improve our society.

make life better

2. Decide what kind of response is needed.

Do you agree or disagree? = Say whether you agree or disagree

What kind of changes will occur? = State what changes might happen

3. Brainstorm key points for the answer.

Question one: agree the changes will Question two: changes that will occur
be positive

Life is becoming more convenient More time-saving technology, such as robots to do

[technology leads to convenience] our housework.

Better entertainment New technologies to enhance our entertainment.

For instance 3-D television will soon become
commonplace in our living rooms.

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4. Decide on the structure of the essay

This essay can always be structured the same based on the two questions that are

asked:

introduction = rephrase the topic and introduce both questions

question one = write exactly two main points to support your response

question two = write exactly two main points to support your response

conclusion = summarise your main points about each question

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Steps in writing your essay
Once you have written a solid plan for your essay, you can begin the task of actually writing
the essay. Having a good plan will speed up this process and ensure that you are consistent
with your opinion throughout the essay. What I mean here is that the introduction will fit
the body of the essay, and the conclusion will summarise the points from the body of the
essay. If you achieve this high level of fit, you are likely to score well for task response and
cohesion and coherence.

INTRODUCTION

1. Paraphrase the question

Given that you have already rephrased the keywords of the topic this step should be
relatively easy. When you do write this sentence, in addition to rephrasing words also try to
rearrange the order of words in the sentence. This may necessitate changing some of the
word forms. For instance you might have to change nouns into verbs. This shows the
examiner your ability to use language flexibly and can increase your score for vocabulary
and grammar.

Some people think that in the future lots of changeswilloccur that will

in the years to come developments are taking place

improve our society.

make life better

As a result of developments that are taking place, many people believe

that life will become better.

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 2. Introduce what the essay is about
It is important to make it clear what the essay is about because it makes it clear to the
examiner you understand that there are two questions. Also, when the examiner reads the
body of your essay they already have an overall idea of what your essay is about, and in the
likely event that you have errors with vocabulary and grammar they may be less serious
because the examiner will have more of a context in order to guess the meaning of what
you are trying to express. You can simply state what the essay is about using a phrase like:
This essay discusses,
…and then add on a rephrase of the two questions:

This essay discusses the reasons why the changes that are coming are positive,
and also suggests what kind of changes will occur.

BODY

After you have written the introduction, you will need exactly two body paragraphs. You
should have a paragraph for each of the questions. A good paragraph should only have one
main idea. The main idea for each paragraph is the question you are responding to. You
should then have exactly two main points to support each question. This ensures that you
get the right balance for the essay. What I mean here is that you should say about the same
amount for each of the questions. You should not focus on one of the questions more than
the other. You can then support each of these main points by explaining it or giving an
example to illustrate it. In order to keep the size of your essay manageable, you might
choose to have a major and minor point in each paragraph. The major point may use three
sentences and the minor point 2 sentences. For instance, you might use this structure:

s1 topic sentence: make it clear which question you are discussing

s2: introduce the main point

s3: explain the main point

s4: give an example to illustrate the main point

s5: minor point

s6: explain or give an example to illustrate the minor point

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1. Write topic sentences for each body paragraph

Each body paragraph should start with a topic sentence. For this type of essay the topic
sentence should clearly identify which of the questions is being responded to.

The changes that are coming are positive for two main reasons
[Responds to causes]

2. Write supporting sentences for the topic sentences

You can think of the topic sentence you have just written as being the introduction for the
paragraph. It introduces the question you are responding to, which forms the key point for
the paragraph. Having a clear key point for the paragraph makes it easy for the examiner to
understand what you are saying in the paragraph. In addition, if the key point of the
paragraph is clear any errors with vocabulary or grammar will be less likely to prevent
communication. This is because the examiner will have more of a context to guess any parts
that are unclear. After you have written the topic sentence, you should support it by
developing the key point. There are three ways to develop your key point: Explanation,
example, adding details

Explanation: The main reason is that they will make our lives more convenient.

Adding details: We are likely to have more free time as a result of technology
taking over many of our everyday tasks.

Example: For example, we may have robots capable of doing many household
chores.

CONCLUSION

You only need to do two things in the final paragraph of this type of essay and they are
always the same. First you need to signal that this is the concluding paragraph and second
you should summarise your main points for each question.

In conclusion, the future looks promising because we will have technology

takeover many of life's mundane tasks and we'll have better forms of
entertainment. The most likely changes appeared to be technologies to save us
time and also enhance our leisure time.

169
Model essay one:
Some people think that in the future lots of changes will occur that will
improve our society.
Do you agree or disagree?

What kind of changes will occur?

As a result of developments that are taking place, many people believe that life
will become better. This essay discusses the reasons why the changes that are
coming are positive, and also suggests what kind of changes will occur.

The changes that are coming are positive for two main reasons. The main
reason is that they will make our lives more convenient. We are likely to have
more free time as a result of technology taking over many of our everyday
tasks. For example, we may have robots capable of doing many household
chores, and this will enable us to have more free time for enjoyment and
relaxation. Another factor is that our recreational time will be enhanced by new
technologies that make our entertainment and even more fun. If we enjoy
ourselves more we will be happier and more relaxed.

There are two main types of developments that are likely to occur. The first of
these is time-saving technologies. Future enhancements of robotics are likely to
lead to even more household tasks being performed by machines. As well as
this, the entertainment industry looks likely to soon make enhancements to our
recreational experiences by making new technologies available. A good
example of this is 3-D television, which will make watching movies even more
fun.

In conclusion, the future looks promising because we will have technology

takeover many of life's mundane tasks and we'll have better forms of
entertainment. The most likely changes appear to be technologies to save us
time and also enhance our leisure time.

[257 words]

170
Template for a two question essay

It is difficult to build a standardised template for our two question essay because a wide
variety of questions can be asked. First a general template will be given and then a more
specific template will be given for a typical problem and solution essay.

General template

Introduction

Rephrase the topic

this essay discusses…[Question one] + [question two]

Body

Question one [try to write two main points to respond to this question]

Question two [try to write two main points to respond to this question]

Conclusion

In conclusion,
[summarise the two main points about question one]
[summarise the two main points about question two]

171
Template for the problem and solution essay that follows with gaps for the topic
Note that this is the original form of a two question essay that gets asked and it is essentially
the same as the essay above and follows the same format. The question type is quite
commonplace and you can use the template below for any essay of this type.

……………. is becoming increasingly serious in many nations. Although …………….

Threaten[s] many societies, its /their effects can also be combated successfully.
This essay looks at some of the problems caused by ……………. on society, and
suggests some solutions to the problems.

……………. causes multiple problems. The ……………. effects are very obvious. For
example, ……………. In some cases, such as ……………. even leads to (death). The
second effect is ……………. People who ……………. become …………….

However, the menace of ……………. can be fought. Education is the main way to
tackle this issue. People need to be aware of the effects so that they can avoid
this problem. In addition, the government could also …………….. This is a good
approach because …………….

In conclusion, ……………. is a serious issue because it causes harmful effects on

people’s health and people who are ……………. The best approaches to deal with
it are to educate people about its damaging effects, and also for the
government to …………….. Although the problem is unlikely to be entirely
eliminated in the short term there are concrete steps to reduce the effects it is
having on the current society.
[about 175 words]

172
Model essay two:
[problem and solution]

The use of illegal drugs, such as heroin and cocaine, are becoming
more and more common in many countries.

What are some of the problems associated with drug abuse, and what
are some of the possible solutions?

Change the underlined parts according to your topic

Drugabuse is becoming increasingly serious in many nations. Although drugs threaten many
societies, their effects can also be combated successfully. This essay looks at some of the
problems caused by druguse on society, and suggests some solutions to the problems.

Drugabuse causes multiple problems for countries and communities. The medical effects
are very obvious. For example, addictsabusetheirbodiesandneglecttheirhealth,andso
eventuallyrequireexpensivetreatmentorhospitalization. In some cases, such as Marilyn
Monroe, a drugoverdose even leads to death. The second effect is crime. People who take
drugs become crazyandirrationalandoftencauseharmanddangertothemselvesand others.

However, the menace of drugs can be fought. Education is the main way to tackle this issue.
People need to be aware of the effects so that they can avoid this problem. In addition, the
government could also useinfomercialstoeducatetheircitizens. This is a good approach
because theycanalertallcitizensaboutthenegativeaspectsofusingdrugs.

In conclusion, drugabuse is a serious issue because it causes harmful effects on people’s

health and people who are highoftencommitcrimes. The best approaches to deal with it are
to educate people about its damaging effects, and also for the government toensureall
peopleareawareoftheconsequencesthroughpublicserviceadvertising. Although the problem
is unlikely to be entirely eliminated in the short term these are concrete steps to reduce the
effects it is having on the current society.

[260 words]

173
More sample questions

Nowadays we communicate less with our family members face to face.

What are the causes of this?
What are some potential solutions?

More people use their own cars rather than public transport; so many people believe it is up
to the government to encourage people to use public transport.
Do you agree?
How else can people be encouraged to use public transportation?

The development of technology has influenced the ways people interact with each other.
What are the main changes in the types of interactions people have?
Do you think this is positive or negative?

Developed countries often give financial aid to developing countries, but it does not solve
poverty, so developed countries should give other types of help to the poor countries rather
than financial aid.
Do you agree or disagree?
What other kind of aid could be provided?

There are many reasons that can motivate a person to stay working for the same company.
Some believe that money is the main reason.
Do you agree or disagree?
What are some other reasons why people may stay?

Common mistakes

Not responding fully to both questions

Level 6 for task response requires that you: Address all parts of the task although some parts
may be more fully covered than others. Level 7 requires that you: Fully address all parts of
the task. From this perspective it is vital that you answer both questions fully in order to
reach 7 and above.

Not introducing BOTH questions in the introduction.

As mentioned above it is vital that your essay focuses on both questions in the essay. It is
misleading to only introduce one of the questions in the introduction.

174
 4.6. Improving your score
This section will help you to improve your score by outlining some of the common errors
that occur with essays written in the exam and also to make suggestion about how to
enhance your score for each of the four grading criteria.

Common mistakes with task response

From my experience working as an IELTS examiner, IELTS tutor, and also as an online editor
of thousands of IELTS essays I have discovered that students make the following mistakes on
their essays.

Poor time management

If you do not right enough words your score for task response is penalised by 1 to 3 points! In
addition to that, if you didn't complete the task you are unlikely to score well for task
response anyway, as you are unlikely to have completely answered the question. In this case
your score for task response would be restricted to 5 and you would still get the penalty on
top of this. In other words you probably will fail your exam! The following are my
suggestions for managing your time:

Make sure you make a plan before you start writing. A plan will save you time when you
start writing because you will not have to keep stopping to think about what point you want
to make next. This is the area that most students do poorly on and in order to do it well it
takes practice. The best way to practice is to look at past exam questions and prepare a plan
of how you would write them.

Make sure you have practiced writing sufficiently before your exam and that you
understand how to structure the three types of essays that get asked. If you are familiar
with the types of questions that get asked you won't get a nasty surprise and you will be
able to answer the question more quickly.

If you really have trouble with finishing on time, learn some stock phrases that you can write
quickly in the exam. If you have learnt the sentences well you will be able to write them
quickly and without errors. The best way to learn these is to look at model answers and
underline sentences you think you would like to use in your own writing. Then you need to
memorize the sentences by writing them, and even better, practice writing them in an essay.

175
Not responding to all parts of the topic.
For the task below, the topic includes two parts that must be both referred to in the body of
the essay. These two parts are cheaper and easier. If you have failed to answer both, your
score would be limited to 5 for task response.

These days, due to advances in technology, it is cheaper and easier to travel abroad.

Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Misstating the topic

This error occurs when a candidate gives an answer that is not directly related to the topic;
or in other words, is tangential to the topic. This commonly occurs in the introduction to the
essay but also it can happen in the body of the essay. See the example below, the question
talks about space travel but the candidate talks about science and technology in general.

Some people think space travel is important for the development of humanity;
while other people believe it is a waste of money. Discuss both views and give
your opinion.

Candidatewrites:

Many people believe that we should invest more money on science. However, others
disagree and think we should not waste money on technology. This essay discusses both
sides of the argument and then I will give my opinion.

In the example below the candidate changes the topic by saying that people rely on computers
instead of talking about whether they will be able to use computers to view art.

Some people claim that public museums and art galleries will not be needed
because people can see historical objects and works of art by using a
computer. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Candidatewrites:

Nowadays, people tend to relyoncomputers too much. Some people even think the need for
public museums and art galleries will gradually disappear in the future. I totally disagree
because I believe museums and galleries will always be essential.

176
In the example below the candidate changes the topic by rephrasing power of advertising to
deceptive advertising. The task does not say that advertising is deceptive only that it is
powerful.

Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not
the real needs of the society in which they are sold.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Candidatewrites:

These days, we can see some consumer goods are in high demand in our society. There exists
a perception that such high demand is the result of deceptiveadvertising. I somewhat agree
with this.

The question says more not only

Some people said the government should not spend money on building theaters and
sports stadiums. It should spend more money on medical care and education. Do you
agree or disagree?

Candidatewrites:

When it comes to how to allocate the governmental budget, one topic now under debate is
whether the money should be spentonly on medical services and education instead of on
constructing theaters and sports stadiums.

177
Not fully answering the question

For the question below note that you need to not only mention the advantages and
disadvantages but also state which one is stronger. A common error is to just state the
advantages and disadvantages. The problem here is that the candidate appears to be
focusing on the advantages and disadvantages and not on which one outweighs the
other, as required by the question.

Some museums and art galleries charge admission fees, while others have free
entry.
Do you think the advantages of free admission outweigh the disadvantages?

Candidatewrites:

Some museums and art galleries are free, whereas others require payment for entry.
This essay discusses the advantages and disadvantages.

Misstating the question

In the example below the candidate makes it seem like the question is only asking for their
opinion instead of both sides of the argument and their own opinion.

Technology allows food to be produced in greater quantities and at lower

prices. Some people believe this is a positive development, while others feel
that the change is harmful.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Thecandidatewrites:

Nowadays our food supply is more plentiful and cheaper due to scientific advances. Ibelieve
this is totally advantageous for individuals and society for the reasons that follow.

Over-generalisation
Overgeneralisation occurs when something is exaggerated. Something that only applies to
some or the majority is said to apply to all of a population.

For example: As we all know, all politicians are corrupt.

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Improving task response

Read the task carefully

Do not rush reading the task, even though you are under pressure to finish the writing exam
in one hour. Read every word carefully and underline key words. Think carefully what the
topic is about and what the question is asking you to say about the topic.

Planning
The planning stage should also not be rushed. You should spend at least 5 minutes planning
your essay. You need to make sure that you have strong main ideas and a good structure for
your essay. This will enable you to focus on the topic and question. Also, if you make an
effective plan, this can actually speed up the writing of your essay. This is because a lot of
time can be wasted when writing if you need to think of what you are going to say. The plan
can reduce the time spent trying to think of what to say when writing. Essentially, it's more
time efficient to do all the thinking at the start, in the planning stage, in order to reduce the
time spent thinking during writing.

Developing strong main ideas

A lot of my students tell me they struggle to come up with good ideas. My main suggestion
is to practice this. Look at lots of sample questions and think how you would answer them.
You may get lucky and get one of these questions in your exam! As well as this,
brainstorming in English is a skill and if you practice it you will get better at it.

Developing your ideas well

A grade six requires responding to all parts of the question. A grade seven and above
requires that you extend and support your ideas. This can be done by supporting your main
ideas with explanations, details, and examples. For more on this see the section on writing
the body of the essay.

Use an appropriate structure

To get a high score it is essential that you structure your ideas well. This is because the
examiner will be able to see the quality of your ideas if they are structured well.

179
Common errors with cohesion and coherence

Avoid basic sequencing words

Try to avoid sample sequencing words such as: firstly secondly, as they are very basic
sequences. Instead use something like: the main reason….another factor

Firstly, Themainbenefitisthat students can get access to resources online with their
computers anytime they want. This is of benefit for those who are not able to attend
class at a certain time. Secondly, Aswellasthis, students can choose where to study, and
this is clearly a benefit to students who need to look after other members of their family.

Avoid unnecessary sentence elements

In the examples below unnecessary phrases are underlined. It is better to leave these out
because they don't add anything to the sentence, and they break the flow of the sentence.
In other words, they lower coherence, while offering no communicative benefit.

There are, to tell the truth, tutors and doctors in every city even in the countryside.

In my opinion, however, doctors are still important.

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Incorrect use of conjunctions
Words like: however, consequently, in addition can be used to start sentences. When you
use a conjunction it is to join two parts of a sentence and you should only have a single
sentence. Words that cannot be used to start sentences and should only be used in the
middle of sentences are called conjunctions. You can remember them as FANBOYS:

For: He is betting with his health, for he has been smoking far too long.

And: They bet and they drink.

Nor: They do not bet nor do they drink.

But: They bet, but they don't drink.

Or: Every day they bet or they drink.

Yet: They bet, yet they don't drink.

So: He bet well last night, so he drank a beer to celebrate.

Not using an appropriate structure for the question type

In response to the question below, a student wrote: I discussed both views and ended up
getting bans 6. Really disappointed.

My reply: that's because you were not asked to discuss both views. You were asked to
discuss which one is better!

More houses are needed in many countries to cope with increasing populations.

Would it be better to build houses in existing towns and cities or to develop new
towns in rural areas?

181
 Avoid irrelevant sentences
Every supporting sentence in a paragraph must relate to the main idea stated in the topic
sentence. A sentence that does not support the main idea does not belong in the
paragraph, thus such a sentence should be omitted. When a sentence does not belong in a
paragraph, it is called an irrelevant sentence. The underlined sentence below is an example
of this because it is not about where people come from, like the rest of the paragraph:

The staff in the company come from many different parts of the world. Some are from
European countries, such as France, Spain, and Italy. Others are from Middle Eastern
countries like Saudi Arabia and Israel. Still other students were born in Asian countries,
including Japan and Korea. Japanesefoodisdelicious. The largest number of employees are
from Latin American countries like Mexico, Venezuela and Peru. The company is an
interesting mix of people from many different countries.

Improving cohesion and coherence

Make a plan before you start writing

If you have a solid plan before you start writing you will make sure that you are on topic and
that you have an appropriate structure for your essay. It is essential that you respond to the
question that is asked.

Use sequencing words and connecting phrases

Sequencing words and connecting phrases add cohesion to your writing by showing the
relationship between ideas and by sending signals to the reader about your writing. To
improve this, refer to the section on Useful Linking Words and Phrases.

Avoid errors with word choices

If you make lots of errors with word choices this makes it more difficult for the examiner to
read your writing which lowers coherence. Therefore these errors with word choices lower
your score for vocabulary as well as for cohesion and coherence. The negative effect is
double!

182
Avoid unnecessarily complicated structures and grammar
The more difficult it is for the examiner to follow your writing the lower your score for
cohesion and coherence. Just use simple straightforward main points and explain them as
clearly and logically as possible. In terms of sentence structure avoid sentences with lots of
clauses. I would say a maximum of three clauses. This is because sentences with lots of
clauses are hard to read and also if you make any errors with vocabulary or grammar the
reader will become totally confused.

Learn how to develop your ideas in paragraphs

When assessing your score for cohesion and coherence the examiner is looking at your
ability to structure the whole essay and also your ability to structure individual paragraphs.
Paragraphs should focus on one main idea and then that idea should be logically developed
in the paragraph through explanation, adding details, and using examples that illustrate the
main point.

183
Common errors with vocabulary

"S" endings of words

Almost every essay I read has this mistake. The writer puts an "S" where it's not needed or
else forgets to put one where it is needed. Examples below:

Student are always studying hard. ["s" is needed for students]

Students goes home tired every day. [The verb should be go]

Technologiesare developing rapidly. [Technology is uncountable in this context so it should

be technology is developing rapidly]

Other errors with word endings and form

Other common errors are errors with word endings such as "ed" for past tense, and errors
with word forms such as when a verb is incorrectly written as a noun. A couple of examples:

Last year my uncle work in America. [worked]

We need to management the environment better. [manage]

Repeating words excessively

You should always rephrase words that are given in the task because it shows your ability to
rephrase words and that you have a broad vocabulary. In addition to this, try to avoid
repeating the same word in the body of your essay. You can achieve this by using different
words or by using different forms of the same word.

Example of rephrase: country = nation

Example of change in form: young people need to be prepared for their careers =
preparation of young people for their careers is necessary

184
Noun trains [where you have a whole lot of nouns together; like cars on the
train].
This error occurs when two or more nouns are together, it would be more natural to write
"application of pesticides" than" pesticides application" you can Google both of these [using
speech marks] and see that "application of pesticides" is much more common and the
results fit your context better. If you are ever unsure whether one phrase is better than
another, whether two words go together, or about the word order of a sentence you can
use this method of googling the phrases. Some other examples:

starvation alleviation = alleviation of starvation

food production revolution = revolutionising food production

Obvious memorised language that is inappropriately applied

Below are examples of obvious memorised phrases that are incorrectly applied.

One of the most controversial issues relates to whether students should live at home or on
campus.

My response: Really! I wasn't aware. I thought was things like abortion and euthanasia and
wars! Better to say "A highly debated issue"

Whether children should start learning a foreign language at primary school instead of high
school has sparked off an intensive debate.

My response: Really! I wasn't aware. I have heard nothing about this. Better to say "… is an
important issue in the field of education"

Colloquial expressions
Some phrases are used when speaking, but not when writing. Some examples:

actually, I would also like to mention, I reckon

Clichés
A cliché is an overused expression. These can be considered as "ugly" English. Examples:

In this day and age…

At the end of the day…

Just like every coin has two sides…

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Improving vocabulary
This is such a huge area that it is beyond the scope of this book. However, some general
guidelines follow. You can also see some words and phrases for common topics in the
section titled: Vocabulary for Common Topics.

Rephrase the task

The first thing you should do when you start the writing exam is read the question and
underline key words. This is to help you clearly understand the question and also to help
you generate some alternative words to replace the given words. This shows the examiner
your ability to rephrase and also that you have a broad vocabulary.

Use high-level words where possible

Where possible try to avoid basic words and use high-level words to show the examiner
your talent with language. Do not forget that it is a language test!

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Common errors with grammar

Articles
Almost every essay I read has errors with articles. The articles are: a, an, the

To reduce these errors you should read about the rules, do some quizzes, and also practice
your writing and get feedback on these. More is explained about this in the next section on
improving grammar.

Avoid writing short simple sentences

In order to score six and above you need to show the examiner you have the ability to write
complex sentences. These are sentences that have a dependent and independent clause. If
you just write short simple sentences like the one below your score is limited to 5.

The advantages of this policy are obvious. It is beneficial for communities and societies in
general.

My comment: It would be better to write this as one sentence: “The advantages of this
policy for communities and societies are obvious. “

He or she
If you write in plural you don't need to use the awkward expression "he or she. Write “if
people like it… they”; instead of: "if a person likes it heorshe…"

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 4.7. Improving grammar

Grammar is a huge area with tons of books dedicated to it. If you are taking an IELTS exam in
the near future you may not have a lot of time to work on grammar. The best ways to
improve your grammar score are to reduce the number of errors you make and also to write
a variety of sentence types. Looking below at the grading criteria for a level 7 for grammar
makes this clear.

Criteriaforgrammar

• uses a variety of complex structures

• produces frequent error-free sentences
• has good control of grammar and punctuation but may make a few errors

From the criteria above we can notice that there is nothing about using complicated tenses
such as perfect tenses. Spending time on learning different tenses and how to use them
does not usually pay off well in terms of the time investment. As well is this, they are
difficult to master and apply in your writing. For this reason I think that it's better to focus
on reducing errors and learning to write different sentence structures, especially complex
sentences. This section focuses on some ways to write complex sentence structures and
then on explaining a few of the types of grammatical errors that commonly occur in essays.

Develop ways of writing complex sentences

Complex sentences are sentences that include an independent and dependent clause. Two
excellent ways to form these are to use conditionals [phrases] and relative clauses [who,
which, that, where].

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Conditional sentences
A conditional sentence is a complex sentence structure used to talk about something that
occurs only if something else happens. The condition may be something real or imagined,
and the result could be a definite result, or just a possible result. Conditionals are a useful
way of forming complex sentences, which can boost your grammar score. Another reason
why I teach candidates to use them is because they can be easily noticed by an examiner,
due to the word if. If sends a signal to the examiner that a conditional is being used.

There are two clauses to a conditional sentence:

One part is the if clause. This is the event that needs to occur. It is a dependent clause
because it is not a complete sentence and is dependent on the other part of the sentence.

The second part is the result or main clause, or what happens when the event in the if
clause occurs. The result clause is an independent clause because it can stand on its own as
a sentence.

The dependent and independent clauses can be written in any order, as shown below:

If I have holidays, I go to Australia. [A comma as needed when the dependent clause comes
first]

I go to Australia if I have holidays. [No comma]

Summaryofconditions

Condition Usage Example

0 Facts and opinions If I have holidays, I go to Australia

present tense, present tense

1 Likely outcomes If I have enough days off, I will go to Australia.

Present tense future tense
2 Unlikely outcomes or If I wonthelottery, I would go to Australia.
Past tense would
imagined situations

3 Past situations that didn't If I hadhad enough days off, I would have gone to
occur Australia.
Past Perfect Tense would have

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Relative clauses
Another good way to increase your grammar score by using complex sentences, is to add
relative clauses to your sentences. Relative clauses use relative pronouns (that, which, who,)
and are dependent clauses, which means that they cannot stand on their own as complete
sentence.

Summaryofrelativepronouns
Relative Use Example
pronoun

who people I like students who study hard.

which things I live in a flat, which is in a high-rise building.

where places I like shopping at places where there is lots of parking.

whose possession Do you know the boy whose mother is a nurse?

that for a specific person or thing I don’t like the table that stands in the kitchen.

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Reducing errors

The second way to increase your score for grammar is to reduce errors. To get to grade 7 and
above you need to have frequent error-free sentences. If you do not have this you cannot
get to 7 and above. If you want to get to 8 or 9 you need to decrease errors to a similar
frequency as a native writer. In order to achieve this you need to identify your areas of
weakness and work on these by learning the rules, doing quizzes, and getting feedback on
your writing.

Articles (A, An, the)

An article is a word that is used with a noun to indicate to the reader whether the noun is a
particular and specific noun or an instance of a noun in general., There are two types of
articles the indefinite (a/an), which refers to the general usage of a noun; and the definite
article (the) which refers to a specific noun that will be identifiable by the reader.

An indefinite article indicates that its noun is not a specific one that can be identified by the
reader. It may be something that the writer is mentioning for the first time, or the writer
may be making a general statement about something. The indefinite articles are a and an.
The word a is used before words that begin with a consonant sound (even if the word starts
with a vowel, as in a unicorn). An is used before words that begin with a vowel sound (even
if the word starts with a consonant, as in an hour).
Example: She had a house so large that an elephant would get lost.

A definite article is used with a noun that refers to something specific the reader should be
aware of. It may be used to refer back to something that the speaker has already
mentioned, or it may be used with a noun that has only one possible instance [The capital of
China is Beijing]. The definite article, the, can be used for both singular and plural nouns.
Example: The best place to live is the capital.

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Summaryof theusageofarticles

Indefinite (a or an) Definite (the)

Singular a cat (any cat) the dirtiest cat

an orange (any orange) thered orange

[None used] Definite (the)

Plural Plurals, languages, sports, The best cats)

subjects, cities, countries… the sweetest oranges
with a few exceptions!

Note the following:

1. First versus subsequent mention of a noun

A or an is used to introduce a noun when it is used for the first time in a piece of writing.

“Please give me a pen.”

The is used afterward each time you mention that same noun.

“Where is the pen?”

There was a cat in my room. When my dog came in, the cat ran away.

2. Zero articles:

Some common types of nouns that don't take an article are:

a. Plurals usually have no articles: “please give me some apples,” “I like apples.;” unless they
are definite “these are the best apples.

b. Names of languages and nationalities: “I am Chinese.”

c. Names of sports: “I like playing soccer.”

d. Names of academic subjects: “I studied math for three years.”

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3. Places usually have no article:

Do not use the before names of streets, countries, lakes, and mountains.

There are a few exceptions such as: the USA, the UK, the EU [note that these are all areas
that are made up of different regions]; likewise with groups of lakes like the Great Lakes,
and ranges of mountains like the Himalayas.

Prepositions
Prepositions are used to locate something in time and space, modify a noun; or tell when or
where or under what conditions something happened. The following are guidelines for using
prepositions correctly. This covers many common situations.

Prepositions of Time: at, in, on

Preposition Usage Example

At at is for specific times The exam is at 12:15 PM

In in is for nonspecific times during a The exam is in the morning
day/month/year.

On on for days and dates The exam is on Monday.

The exam is on Christmas Day.

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Prepositions of Place: at, in, on

Preposition Usage Example

At We use at for specific addresses. I live at 50 Pong Lai Road.

In We use in for the names of land-areas I live in Taipei.
(towns, counties, states, countries, and
continents).

On We use on for the names of streets, I live on Pong Lai Road.

avenues, etc.

Prepositions for describing our work:

at company’s I work at Comtrend

in departments in the marketing department, as a

technical writer.

on projects I am working on a new manual

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 4.8. Vocabulary for common topics
The following is intended as a brief outline of some useful vocabulary for common topics
that occur on the exam. F

Education

Rephrasingofsomecommontopicwords:

children = juveniles, youngsters

education= learning, instruction, acquiring knowledge

students = pupils

parents = caregivers, guardians, mothers and fathers

schools = educational institutions

society = community, citizens

teachers = educators

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Someusefulnouns

Word Meaning
the curriculum the entire school program including course materials and testing of
students. Everything that a school aims to teach students.

graduate a person who has graduated from a school

illiteracy the inability to read and write

literacy the ability to read and write

nurture to help grow or develop

pedagogy the way of teaching including the instructional methods that is used

qualification what someone gets when they graduate from school. For instance, a
diploma is a qualification.

social skills the ability to communicate and interact well with others

student centred a philosophy of education where the student is the central focus
education

tuition the fees for studying a course

Someusefulverbs

Word Meaning
graduate to pass a course or level of study

concentrate to focus attention towards a particular activity, subject or problem

revise to review materials that have already been taught

enrol to join a class

indoctrinate to teach following a biased belief or point of view. For example: Hitler
indoctrinated young Germans with a hatred for other races.

interpret to understand in a particular way. For example, we need to interpret

the meaning of the painting.

persevere to not give up. To keep doing something for the success is achieved.

procrastinate to delay or put off doing something

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Someusefuladjectives

Word Meaning
academic relating to education especially universities.

co-educational when male and female students are taught together in the same
school.

single sex when only need male or female students are taught in the same
school.

hands-on to learn by actually doing. We can get hands-on experience by actually

doing things.

multi-disciplinary involving several different subjects or areas of study.

pedagogical relating to teaching methods and principles.

primary education an elementary school or the first years of formal schooling.

secondary high school

education

segregated separated. For example, the classes are segregated by gender.

tertiary education university or vocation school

vocational concerns teaches the skills necessary for a particular job. This concept
is often applied to trade schools. So if you studying cooking or the
penetration you are going to a vocational school.

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Health

Rephrasing of some common topic words:

health= well-being, physical condition, fitness

healthy= fit, in good condition

unhealthy = unwell, poor medical condition

sick people = patients, people who are unwell

treatment = cure, healing

sickness= medical condition

Someusefulnouns

Word Meaning
addiction the condition of not being unable to stop doing something. Especially
something harmful like drinking alcohol or playing video games.

allergy a strong reaction to something. For instance, an allergy to a certain

food.

anxiety stress

diagnosis an opinion of a patient's health condition or illness.

diet 1. everything that we eat.

2. a plan to eat carefully to reduce weight.

insomnia inability or difficulty to get to sleep.

ingredients the different foods that go into a recipe.

obesity being extremely overweight.

nutrition the health value of food.

physician another word for doctor.

treatment a way of curing an illness or medical condition.

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Someusefulverbs

Word Meaning
administer to give a treatment to a patient.

counteract to respond or act in opposition to something. For example, we need

to counteract the effects of global warming.

eliminate to get rid of something.

diagnose to work-out what is wrong with a patient.

diet to attempt to lose weight by eating more carefully.

prevent to stop something happening.

stipulate to require something. For example, the contract stipulates that you
must pay your medical bill by the end the month.

trigger to cause something to happen. For example, certain foods may trigger
an allergy.

Someusefuladjectives

Word Meaning
acute very serious

chronic long-lasting

hazardous very dangerous

nutritious used to describe food that is healthy. For example, fruit and
vegetables are very nutritious.

vital very important

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Media,

Rephrasing of some common topic words:

influence = effect on

negative development = harmful trend

internet =cyberspace

media =paparazzi [negative]

popularity = fame, attractiveness

Someusefulnouns

Word Meaning
a medium medium is the singular form of media [plural].

censorship when certain types of messages are blocked. For instance, the
government often uses censorship for movies that are violent or have
sexual content.

credibility refers to whether something is reliable or from a reliable source.

exaggeration when the truth is stretched or enlarged.

ideology a way of thinking or belief system.

journalism journalism is the way of reporting the news, by including newspapers,

magazines, radio and television, the internet.

journalist a person who has a career in journalism.

mass media mass media refers collectively to all the forms of media we have such
as television, radio, film, on-line services, magazines and newspapers.

propaganda propaganda occurs the media favours certain kinds of stories or

distorts messages to influence the opinions of behaviour of people.

social media this usually refers to online tools for communication such as
Facebook and Twitter.

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Someusefulverbs

Word Meaning
broadcast to send messages. For instance the TV broadcasts shows every night.

censor to block or a strict information or content, especially when it includes

violence or inappropriate content.

exploit to take advantage of someone. For example, whenever a celebrity

makes a mistake and public the media is always there to exploit the
situation.

intrude to invade or interfere with someone. For example the media often
intrudes on people's privacy.

publicise to make public.

Someusefuladjectives

Word Meaning
classical following a well-established tradition

contemporary Modern

cultural relating to culture. For example, cultural awareness is being aware of

someone's culture.

eclectic not following any one system, such as traditional publishing or online
publishing but selecting and using what are considered the best
elements of all systems.

inspirational motivating

monotonous boring

passionate intense or strong emotional feeling about something [positive]

vivid clear

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Technology
Rephrasing of some common topic words:

Recent = contemporary

Advances = developments

Improve = enhance, progress

Technology = scientific advancements

Someusefulnouns

Word Meaning
computerisation to control a process by using a computer.

digital divide the gap between those with easy access to information technology,
and those without it.

gadget any small piece of equipment.

innovation a new way of doing something, or a new application of a technology.

revolution major change in the way of doing something.

technophobe someone who has a fear of resistance to technology.

technophile someone who embraces technology and uses it often.

telecommunications technology used in the field of communications.

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Someusefulverbs

Word Meaning
develop to make or create.

envisage to conceive or imagine an idea.

impact to have an influence.

revolutionise to make dramatic changes.

surpass to exceed or overtake. For example, technology is developing so fast

that it will one day surpass our ability to use it.

Someusefuladjectives

Word Meaning
computer literate able to understand and communicate about computers.

obsolete something that is no longer used. For example, typewriters are now
obsolete.

outdated something that is no longer up-to-date.

state-of-the-art the latest in most recently available.

user-friendly easy to use.

virtual almost, especially as in almost real. For example, when we play games
using virtual reality they seemed like they are almost real.

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Crime
Rephrasing of some common topic words:

Punishment = penalty

Crime = lawbreaking, transgression, offense

Criminal = lawbreaker, offender

Laws = regulations, rules

Someusefulnouns

Word Meaning
corporal to punish by physically harming the offender
punishment

capital punishment to punish by killing the offender

community service to spend time helping the community. For example, if a person does
a minor crime they are often only punished by having to do
communityservice.

consequences the result or effect of something

deterrent something that prevents an action

evidence proof that the crime occurred

fine money paid for a crime

imprisonment to put someone in prison

legislation laws that are made by the government

felony a major crime

misdemeanour a minor crime

motive reason for doing something

prevention stopping something from happening

victim the person who suffers from a crime or negative event

violation to break a rule

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Someusefulverbs

Word Meaning
commit to do something seriously wrong. for example, to commit murder or
suicide.

convict to judge someone as having done a crime

execute to kill someone

incarcerate to put someone in prison

rehabilitate to try to help a criminal become normal again

Someusefuladjectives

Word Meaning
guilty someone who has done something wrong

innocent someone who has done nothing wrong

minor not serious

major serious

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The environment

Rephrasing of some common topic words:

Environment = biosphere, ecosystem

Damage = devastation

Pollution= contamination

Problems = issues

Solutions= solving, ways to tackle

Someusefulnouns

Word Meaning
biodegradable something that is able to decay naturally and harmlessly.

biodiversity refers to the number and variety of plant and animal species that
exist in a particular environmental area or in the world generally.

climate the weather conditions of a region

climate change the concept that change is occurring to the earth's climate. [Many
people believe this is based on the influence of people].

deforestation the process by which the forests are cut down.

desertification the process by which fertile land is turned into deserts

fossil fuels a natural fuel such as coal, gas, or oil formed over long periods of
time from the remains of living organisms.

energy conservation saving energy

environment the place where people animals and plants live, also known as the
natural world.

extinction the complete dying out of species

habitat a place where animals and plants live

natural resources resources derived from the environment. For example, wood and oil.

renewable energy describes a form of energy that can be produced as quickly as it is

used, such as solar energy.

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Someusefulverbs

Word Meaning
absorb to take in something. For example, the cloth absorbed the rain.

conserve to not waste something

deplete to use up

diminish to reduce something

discharge to release something

contaminate to make something become polluted

endanger to put something or someone in the danger

impact to influence

preserve to keep something safe

retain to keep something

Someusefuladjectives

Word Meaning
alternative a different way of doing something

critical extremely important

disposable something that can be thrown away

efficient performing or functioning in the best possible manner with the least
waste of time and effort

environmentally something that is good or not harmful to the environment

friendly

hazardous something dangerous

renewable able to be renewed or replenished

toxic something poisonous

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Useful linking words and phrases

Sequencing the first idea Adding supporting ideas Adding a contrasting Making general
idea statements
The main reason is Another reason is… On the other hand, As a general rule,

The most important Furthermore, However, Generally,

consideration is…
Moreover, Nevertheless, In most cases,
First of all,
In the same vein, Although,
In the first place,

Giving examples Giving an explanation Clarifying an opinion Drawing a conclusion

For example, The reason for this is… To be more precise… As a consequence,

For instance, This is because… More specifically… Therefore,

In particular, This is due to… By this I mean… As a result,

A clear example of this is… In other words,

Stating your opinion Partially correct Other people's opinions Making a concession
statements
From my perspective, somewhat agree/disagree From a political point of It is sometimes argued
view, that…
From my point of view, to a certain degree,
From the point of view Admittedly,
In my opinion to some extent, of the economy,
However,
Some people believe…

To give advantages To give disadvantages To express cause to express effect

A major advantage of this One major drawback is… Owing to… Therefore,
is…
Another disadvantage is… Due to the fact that… As a consequence,
Another important merit is…
The final limitation is For the reason that… As a result…
The final benefit is… that…

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