ielts task 2 argumentative essay

IELTS Writing Task 2: Argument Essay with Sample Answer

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• Post date July 25, 2012
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IELTS Writing Task 2: Question

Try this argument essay question about access to a university education. It’s very important that you write a balanced argument before giving your opinion.

It is sometimes argued that too many students go to university, while others claim that a university education should be a universal right. Discuss both sides of the argument and give your own opinion.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Model Answer

In some advanced countries, it is not unusual for more than 50% of young adults to attend college or university. Critics, however, claim that many university courses are worthless and young people would be better off gaining skills in the workplace. In this essay, I will examine both sides of this argument and try to reach a conclusion.

There are several reasons why young people today believe they have the right to a university education. First, growing prosperity in many parts of the world has increased the number of families with money to invest in their children’s future. At the same time, falling birthrates mean that one- or two-child families have become common, increasing the level of investment in each child. It is hardly surprising, therefore, that young people are willing to let their families support them until the age of 21 or 22. Furthermore, millions of new jobs have been created in knowledge industries, and these jobs are typically open only to university graduates.

However, it often appears that graduates end up in occupations unrelated to their university studies. It is not uncommon for an English literature major to end up working in sales, or an engineering graduate to retrain as a teacher, for example. Some critics have suggested that young people are just delaying their entry into the workplace, rather than developing professional skills. A more serious problem is that the high cost of a university education will mean that many families are reluctant to have more than one child, exacerbating the falling birthrates in certain countries.

In conclusion, while it can be argued that too much emphasis is placed on a university education, my own opinion is that the university years are a crucial time for personal development. If people enter the workplace aged 18, their future options may be severely restricted. Attending university allows them time to learn more about themselves and make a more appropriate choice of career.

(320 words. IELTS 9.0)

Why does this Task 2 answer get an IELTS Band 9 score?

Task response: The model answer fully answers the question by stating several arguments both for and against the expansion of higher education. The candidate’s position is clearly expressed in the conclusion. The style is appropriate to academic writing and the answer is at least 250 words in length.

Coherence and cohesion: The model answer has an introduction and conclusion. Each body paragraph deals with a different side of the argument and begins with a clear topic sentence. Arguments are developed with logical connectives such as therefore and furthermore .

Lexical resource:  There is a good range of vocabulary suited to an argument essay, including reporting verbs like claim and suggest , and hedging verbs like can and appear . There is native-like collocation throughout, including growing prosperity, enter the workplace and  severely restricted .

Grammatical range and accuracy: The model answer uses a wide range of grammatical devices appropriate to academic writing. These include conditionals ( If… ), participle clauses ( …, increasing the… ), concessive clauses ( while it can… ) and passive constructions ( …it can be argued that… ). There are no grammatical errors.

Teacher’s Notes

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IELTS Writing Task 2: ✍️ Everything You Need to Know

When helping students prepare for the IELTS test, one of the biggest fears is how to do well in IELTS Writing Task 2. 

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the second part of the writing test, where you are presented with a point of view, argument or problem and asked to write an essay in response. Your essay should be in a formal style, at least 250 words in length and you should aim to complete it in under 40 minutes. 

IELTS Writing Task 2: Everything You Need to Know

In this video, I’ll outline exactly what you must do to create an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay that could score a Band 7, 8 or 9.

It doesn’t matter if you’re new to IELTS or if you’ve failed the exam before – I’ve broken everything down into a simple 3-step process that anyone can use to improve their scores! Watch the video above to find out what they are.

5 Steps to a Band 7 in IELTS Writing Task 2

1. Understand the question.

You must understand the question before you attempt to answer it. This way, you’ll know exactly what the examiner is looking for. One of the biggest mistakes students make is not answering the question fully, which stops them from getting a score higher than a Band 5.

To analyse the question , you must first identify the question type, then identify the keywords in the question and finally identify the instructions words. This will help you understand exactly what the examiner wants you to do with the question.

2. Plan your answer.

The students who get the highest marks in Writing Task 2 always plan their answers for up to 10 minutes. Planning helps you organise your ideas and structure your essay before you write it, saving you time and helping you produce a clear and coherent essay.

3. Write an introduction.

The introduction should answer the question directly. This tells the examiner that you know what you are doing straight away and helps you write your main body paragraphs.

4. Write the main body paragraphs.

This is where you give the examiner more detail . You do this by stating your main points and supporting these with explanations and relevant examples.

5. Write a conclusion.

In your conclusion , you should provide a summary of what you already said in the rest of your essay.

4 Ways to Improve your Score in IELTS Writing Task 2

Many people know they need to improve their writing skills but don’t know how to do it. Here are 4 ways you can boost your score in Writing Task 2:

1. Understand the exam.

You must first understand what IELTS Writing Task 2 is, what you are expected to do and how to give the examiners what they want. This is the first stage and one that is often overlooked.

There are many online resources, often with conflicting and poor-quality information, so finding a reliable source of information is key.

2. Identify your weak areas.

If your car breaks down, you would try and identify which part caused the problem. If you get sick, your doctor will run tests to determine the exact cause of your symptoms.

IELTS Writing Task 2 is the same. We must first identify WHY you are not getting the score you need before we can help you improve.

However, be very careful! You wouldn’t ask the average man on the street for medical advice, so make sure you find someone who knows what they are doing and has the expertise to help you with this.

3. Fix the problems.

Now that we know what the problems are, we must fix them.

If your grammar needs work, fix those issues. If your vocabulary is lacking, work on fixing this issue.

Just as a good doctor can help you fix a medical problem, a good IELTS teacher can help you fix your specific issues.

4. Practice and get feedback.

Practice alone will not help you. It is an essential part of your preparation, but you must also get feedback on your work if you are really going to improve.

You wouldn’t try to teach yourself how to drive without an instructor, would you?

Find someone who will give you accurate and helpful feedback on your work. Otherwise, you will not be able to move to the last stage.

Now that you have understood what you need to do, identified the exact areas you need to work on, improved those areas, and received feedback on your work, you are now ready to get the IELTS Writing Task 2 score you deserve.

Writing Task 2 Structures 

I want to warn you about structures because they are not a magic wand that will help you automatically get a higher score. They WILL help you, but please realise that they are just a small part of your overall score.

These structures provide a sentence-by-sentence template for all the main Task 2 question types, making your job much easier on exam day.

• Task 2 Essay Structures

Essential Writing Task 2 Skills 

No matter how good your English is, you must still learn IELTS writing skills before taking the Writing Task 2 test. These helpful guides will take you through each of these skills step-by-step:

• How to Plan an Essay

Making a good plan actually saves you time when you write your essay. This guide will show you how to plan and write a clear essay every time.

• How to Think of Relevant Ideas

This guide provides 5 different methods to help you quickly think of relevant ideas that are directly linked to the question.

• How to Write a Complex Sentence

Complex sentences help you boost your score for grammar. They are actually very simple to write and are not complex at all.

• How to Paraphrase

Paraphrasing is one of the essential IELTS skills for all parts of the IELTS test. You should paraphrase the question in the very first sentence of your essay to help boost your vocabulary score in Writing Task 2.

• How to Write a Supporting Paragraph

Supporting paragraphs are the main body paragraphs and are the meat in the sandwich. This is where you provide the detail the examiner is looking for in the form of explanations and examples.

• How to Write a Thesis Statement

A thesis statement tells the examiner your opinion. Many IELTS Writing Task 2 questions specifically ask for your opinion, and if you don’t write it clearly, you have not answered the question properly. This article shows you how, where and when to give your opinion.

How many words should I write?

Around 250 words? Exactly 250 words or over 250 words? How many words over? How do I know how many words I have? Will I lose marks if I write too many words? This article answers all those questions.

• How to Understand and Analyse Any Question

A critical part of answering any question. This article shows you how to break down any Task 2 question and identify the keywords, micro-keywords and instruction words to help you answer the question effectively.

• How to Write a Great Introduction

The introduction is the first thing the examiner reads; therefore, we must give them a good first impression. I share a very specific sentence-by-sentence structure in this article to help you write introductions quickly and effectively.

• Task 2 Marking Criteria 

Do you know how Task 2 is marked? What is the difference between a Band 5 and a Band 8 answer? This article breaks down the marking criteria and explains it in simple language so you can give the IELTS examiners exactly what they want.

• How to Write a Conclusion

A good conclusion should be a summary of your main points. The conclusion is the last thing the examiner reads, and if you can write a good one, you will leave them with a very good impression.

• Using Examples

Each of your supporting paragraphs should have a specific example that supports and illustrates your main point. This is an essential skill to learn if you want to get one of the higher band scores.

• Cohesive Devices

Cohesive devices (sometimes called linking words) are one of the most misunderstood and misused elements of writing. Therefore, you must learn how to use them and when to use them.

• The Danger of Synonyms

While synonyms are very important, they can also really reduce your mark if used incorrectly.

• Paragraphing and Editing

This article will show you how to make your writing as clear and as easy to read as possible. It will also advise you on whether to use a pen or pencil.

• IELTS Writing Task 2: 8 Steps to Success

Read this blog now to access our 61-page Task 2 strategy.

• IELTS Writing Tips

I have compiled these tips after years of teaching IELTS, and all of them have been approved by IELTS examiners.

• Coherence and Cohesion

This is a video lesson that shows you in practical terms how to improve your coherence and cohesion score.

Writing Task 2 Common Topics 

Knowing the common topics can help you prepare for the test more efficiently. Here are the 10 most common topics over the last few years. Studying hard is great, but don’t forget to study smart.

The article below will show you the top 10 most common IELTS topics.

• Most Common Task 2 Topics 

Full IELTS Writing Task 2 Practice Lessons 

Here are some lessons that I have used when teaching students about IELTS Writing Task 2. I have changed them so that you can easily learn from home. They are very long but contain all the necessary information combined with the skills above.

• Agree or Disagree (Opinion) Lesson

In this lesson, we look at how to tackle an ‘agree or disagree’ question. Many people worry about whether to take one side of the other or discuss both sides. Additionally, people also worry about how to deal with ‘To what extent’ question types. We allay all of these fears in this lesson.

• Discussion Essay Lesson

‘Discuss both views’ questions often confuse people because you are asked to do many things in one essay. As such, it is very important to remember that the question asks you to discuss BOTH views AND give YOUR opinion.

• Problem and Solution Essay Lesson

These questions are much easier than you think. You probably discuss problems and solutions in your day-to-day life all the time. Keep it simple.

• Advantages and Disadvantages Lesson 

There are a couple of different types of advantages and disadvantages questions. This lesson will show you how to answer them.

• Writing Task 2 Exercise with Video

Writing is a skill, and just like any other skill, it is important to practice to improve.

• From Band 6.5 to 8 Demo Lesson

This is my most comprehensive free lesson on IELTS Writing Task 2. We show you how we took one VIP student from Band 6.5 to an amazing 8.

Sample Answers

You must have some good examples to compare your writing and see if you are on the right track. Click the link below for lots of sample answers and over 100 questions.

Task 2 Sample Answers

• Agree or Disagree Sample Essays
• Task 2 Band 9 Sample Essay
• Latest Real Task 2 Questions
• Official Sample Test Questions
• Cambridge Sample Questions
• Free Practice Test
• How To Use Task 2 Samples
• Recent Confusing Questions
• IELTS Writing Practice Guide

IELTS Writing Task 2 Essential Information

• You must write an essay in response to a question.
• You must write 250 words or more.
• Task 2 is worth 2/3 of your total mark on the Writing test.
• You should spend around 40 minutes on this part of the test.
• General Training and Academic are essentially the same for Task 2. However, they are different for Task 1.
• There are certain types of questions that you will be asked, for example, opinion, discussion etc. See below for more detail on these.
• Task Achievement (25%)
• Coherence and Cohesion (25%)
• Lexical Resource (25%)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (25%)

Grammar and Vocabulary

Grammar is one of the four things you will be marked on in the Writing Task 2 test. Finding out what your common grammar mistakes are and then fixing them is a very powerful way to boost your score in this area. Here are some common grammar mistakes I have found after making hundreds of tests.

• Top 10 Grammar Mistakes

For most IELTS students, the problem is not grammar in general. In fact, it is usually just 1-2 problem areas. Therefore, when you fix these main weaknesses, you’ll be able to improve your grammar and your writing score dramatically.

• Using Personal Pronouns

Hint- They aren’t as big of a deal as you think.

See the interactive tool below for the answers to the most commonly asked questions we receive about IELTS Writing Task 2: 

IELTS Writing Task 2 FAQs

How can i improve my writing.

You will find all the resources you need on our Writing Task 2 page. Click the link below:

Writing Task 2

We also have two Task 2 courses for those that need to improve their Task 2 skills and strategy. They are both based online and completely free of charge. Learn more about them below:

Task 2 5 Day Challenge

Task 2 Essay Builder

If you need serious help or personalised feedback, you should check out our VIP Course. There is a waiting list, but you can add your name here:

How can I get a Band 7, 8 or 9?

The answer to this question is different for every individual IELTS student, as it depends on a number of factors, including your work ethic, English skills and exam strategy. You'll find a guide to answering this question in this article

If you need serious help with improving your IELTS scores, you should check out our online writing course. There is a waiting list, but you can add your name by clicking the link below:

Can you correct my writing?

Please click the link below and it will give you all the information you need about our writing correction service:

Writing Correction Service

Do you have any sample answers?

Yes, you will find them at the link below:

Will using 'high level' or 'academic' words help me improve my score?

Probably not.

Read my recent article about IELTS vocabulary here:

5 Things You Need to Know about IELTS Vocabulary

Can I use idioms?

No, you should not write idioms for Task 2.

Can I use personal pronouns?

You should avoid using personal pronouns, but it is fine to use them when giving your personal opinion.

Do you write a conclusion for Task 2?

Yes, it is very difficult to get a good score in Task 2 if you haven't finished your essay with a conclusion. You will find an in-depth lesson on conclusions here:

How to Write an Effective Task 2 Conclusion

How many paragraphs should I write?

Most IELTS task 2 essays follow the same basic four paragraph structure:

• Introduction
• Supporting Paragraph 1
• Supporting Paragraph 2

However, you can find more comprehensive help with structuring your Task 2 essays here:

5 Day Challenge

Do I need to plan my essay?

I would highly recommend planning your essay. A good plan acts like a map that guides you through the essay, ensuring that you give the examiner exactly what they need to award you the score you need. You can find help with planning your essays here: How to Plan an IELTS Essay

You must write at least 250 words in Writing Task 2.

I would suggest that you aim to write around 270-280 words in total. Aiming for 20-30 words more than the required amount makes you more likely to reach the word limit without setting an unrealistic goal.

Will I lose marks if I don't write enough words?

Yes, if you don't write the required number of words, you will lose marks in 'Task Achievement' for not answering the question fully. Read more here .

Can I use contractions?

No, should not use contractions when you are writing an academic essay.

IELTS Mentor "IELTS Preparation & Sample Answer"

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• IELTS Sample

IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

Ielts academic and gt essay/ writing task 2 sample.

IELTS Writing Task 2 ( also known as IELTS Essay Writing ) is the second task of your IELTS Writing test. Here, you will be presented with an essay topic and you will be scored based on your ability to respond to the topic.

You need to write at least 250 words and justify your opinion with arguments, discussion, examples, problem outlining, proposing possible solutions and supporting your position. You will have approximately 40 minutes to finish your Essay Writing. IELTS Writing Task 2 carries more weights than Writing Task 1.

Are you planning to take your IELTS Exam soon? Take an online course and achieve your dream score on your IELTS test.

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Discursive essay IELTS task 2

Home  »  IELTS academic task 2 » Discursive essay IELTS task 2

Writing a discursive essay can be a part of your  task 2 exam , therefore you want to make sure you know how to do it to the best of your abilities. To help you get there we have created a step-by-step plan explaining how to structure your discursive essay in order to reach your target band score.

A discursive essay will look at both sides, whereas an argumentative essay takes a stance, a position, and will argue for this position.

An argumentative essay can be used for a lot of IELTS essay answers, however if you see the ‘discuss both views, and give your opinion’ then you should be writing a discursive essay.

Definition of discursive essay?

A discursive essay explores different opinions on a specific topic or idea.

The writer gives reasons and facts to support each argument he talks about. He then may provide his own opinion based on his exploration of these different perspectives.

How to structure a discursive essay?

When writing a discursive essay for your exam, for a band 7 or above the general consensus is around 350 -400 words, within a time frame of 40 minutes.

We recommend splitting your discursive essay into four paragraphs. This way you’ll get around ten minutes to prepare and write each paragraph.

Paragraph one: introduction

You should always begin your discursive essay with an introduction.

Structure your introduction like this: 1. A background statement. 2. A more detailed background statement. 3. A summary of the opinions (for and against) this topic.

Electric cars will fully replace petrol and diesel-fuelled cars in the future. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

1. A background statement about the topic:

Electric cars are currently being developed by many well-known automotive companies.

2. A more detailed background statement about the topic:

Many people still question whether electric cars are a feasible replacement for petrol and diesel-fueled vehicles.

3. A summary of the opinions (for and against) this topic:

In this essay I will explore the opinions for and against the use of electric cars and their replacement of petrol and diesel-fuelled cars.

Paragraph two: argument/opinion 1 (for the topic)

In paragraph two you can discuss the first argument/opinion (the argument for the topic).

Structure paragraph two like this: 1. Opinion / argument 1 (for the topic) 2. One example to support this opinion/argument 3. A concluding sentence summing up the opinion/argument 1

Try to use connectors like:

• On one hand
• Some people believe
• It is true that

1. Opinion/argument 1: On one hand, electric cars are environmentally friend. They require no non-renewable energy and are clean to run and maintain on the road. 2. One example to support this opinion/argument: To support this opinion, recent studies show that the use of electric cars helps to minimize pollution in urban and rural areas. 3. A concluding sentence summing up the opinion/argument 1: Clearly, electric cars are one way to tackle ecological concerns and support a ‘greener’ environment.

TIP: A lot of students get confused about giving personal examples. The question prompt is misleading! Give examples that you know of, not examples from your personal experience.

These examples help you develop your argument and act as supporting evidence for your position.

It is fine to mention external sources such as a ‘a recent scientific report’, ‘an academic paper from Russia’, etc. Here is a full tutorial all about giving examples .

Paragraph three: argument/opinion 2 (against the topic)

In paragraph three write about the opinion/argument 2 (usually going against the topic).

Structure your paragraph three like this: 1. Opinion / argument 2 (against the topic) 2. One example to support this opinion/argument 3. A concluding sentence summing up the opinion/argument 2

Use phrases like:

• On the other hand
• Other people believe that

1. Opinion/argument 2 ( against the topic): On the other hand, electric cars are inconvenient to maintain and to dispose of. 2. One example to support this opinion/argument: The driver of an electric vehicle must recharge his car approximately every 100 kilometres. In addition, the plutonium battery of an electric car is toxic to the environment and must be safely disposed of through expensive means. 3. A concluding sentence summing up the opinion/argument 2: In brief, scientists are still exploring ways to produce these types of vehicles so that they are easier to manufacture, maintain and use safely.

Paragraph four: concluding paragraph

The last paragraph of your discursive essay should contain a summary of both previous opinions, and be ended with the writer’s opinion.

The last paragraph should be structured like this:

1. Summary of both previous opinions. Use key phrases like:

• To summarize
• To provide a recap of the two perspectives

2. The writer’s opinion. Use language like:

• In my opinion
• I feel strongly that

3. Suggestion and Conclusion

1. Summary of both previous opinions: To sum up, it’s evident that there are both pros and cons in the development of electric vehicles. 2. The writer’s opinion: Despite the expense of development and the inconvenience of recharging electric cars, I still believe strongly that it is well worth the investment to continue research and production of these vehicles. 3. Suggestion and Conclusion: To conclude, we should remain open, supportive to the use of electric cars and to their development in the future.

TIP: Avoid informal language such as contractions and casual language patterns.

YES: It is said diesel fuelled cars are far superior for rural areas.

NO: It’s said diesel fuelled cars just totally crush it in rural areas.

The full example of a discursive essay written following our structure

Electric cars are currently being developed by many well-known automotive companies. Many people still question whether electric cars are a feasible replacement for petrol and diesel-fuelled vehicles. In this essay, I will explore the opinions for and against the use of electric cars and their replacement of petrol and diesel-fuelled cars. On one hand, electric cars are environmentally friend. They require no non-renewable energy and are clean to run and maintain on the road. To support this opinion, recent studies show that the use of electric cars helps to minimize pollution in urban and rural areas. Clearly, electric cars are one way to tackle ecological concerns and support a ‘greener’ environment. On the other hand, electric cars are inconvenient to maintain and to dispose of. The driver of an electric vehicle must recharge his car approximately every 100 kilometres. In addition, the plutonium battery of an electric car is toxic to the environment and must be safely disposed of through expensive means. In brief, scientists are still exploring ways to produce these types of vehicles so that they are easier to manufacture, maintain and use safely. To sum up, it’s evident that there are both pros and cons in the development of electric vehicles. Despite the expense of development and the inconvenience of recharging electric cars, I still believe strongly that it is well worth the investment to continue research and production of these vehicles. To conclude, we should remain open, supportive to the use of electric cars and to their development in the future.

For an introduction on how to start IELTS writing task 2 click here :

For more practice, take a look at our task 2 sample essays , a band 9 IELTS essay or our essay correction service to help you improve your band score!

Useful Tips

• To get ideas and opinions for the essays you write you need to fill your head with news about current events, alternatively you can read my answers and ideas in the section below.
• Good grammar is by far more important than the exam skills. It is impossible to get points for Task Response if the examiner cannot understand what has been written. Getting feedback on your writing is the fastest way to improve.
• Reviewing recent task two questions can help build your ‘essay idea muscle’. Academic papers are also useful but can be difficult to absorb quickly (unless you just read the summary or conclusion!).

Discursive Essay Topics and Answers 

The topics will be the same as all the other IELTS writing task 2 topics you will face. These include:

IELTS essay topics and answers: education

IELTS essay topics and answer: globalisation

IELTS essay topics and answer: travel and transport

IELTS essay topics and answer: employment

IELTS essay topics and answer: employment (skills)

IELTS topic and answer: education

IELTS essay topics and answer: gender issues

IELTS topic: gender issues (career)

IELTS essay topics and answer: technology

IELTS essay topic and answer: health

IELTS essay topics and answer: society

Audio tutorial

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Tutorials and Tips to Prepare for Task 2

• How to Get Ideas for Task 2
• Band 9 Sample Essay
• Extremely Useful Sentences for Task 2
• Five Powerful Sentence Structures to use in your IELTS Writing test
• How to use comparisons in Task 2
• Concession Paragraphs for “do I agree/disagree essays”
• How to write an IELTS Essay Conclusion
• IELTS Cohesion and Coherence
• 3 ways to paraphrase for your Task 2 introduction
• Marking Criteria for IELTS Writing
• Topics Sentences for Your Essays
• 7 Ways to Improve your Sentences in Your IELTS Essays
• Grammar for IELTS Writing
• Academic Collocations for Task 2

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How to write an argument for an IELTS Task 2 essay

By ielts-jonathan.com on 17 June 2022 0

Introduction to IELTS and Academic Writing.

The kind of writing we are going to describe here is ONLY suitable for IELTS Task 2 Writing and not TASK 1 .

Because in Task 1, you are not required to add additional opinion, or comment or speculate on why figures or numbers might be so.

In Task 1, you should only report the figures you can see .

You should not speculate, predict or introduce personal experience in your writing.

Task 2 Writing

For Task 2, often your writing can be improved substantially by providing support to your ideas, your opinions or when answering the prompt given.

Providing Support

Academic writing tends to be impersonal in style in order to be objective .

This may make it appear formal.

Unfortunately, too many IELTS Candidates write in a subjective style .

The result can be:.

If an IELTS Task 2 appears too subjective, this can affect the tone of the writing and lower the Score.

Therefore, it is important to notice how academic writers express themselves and support their opinions.

Support consists of evidence.

Here are four kinds of evidence to make your argument stronger:.

1. Example: from your own experience or from what you heard or read.

2. Common Sense: things that you believe everybody knows.

3. Expert Opinion: the opinions of experts or professionals

(e.g. scientists or doctors) — this comes from research.

4. Statistics: numbers (e.g 75% ) — this also comes from research.

Task: Read the arguments for the following statement:

Here is the statement to consider.

Statement: “Smoking should be banned in all public places”

This is the position I am going to take.

Position: Agree

So, now I am going to agree with this statement by providing an example .

1. Example:

For example / for instance / let me give an example

“ Let me give an example: Whenever I go to a restaurant or bar and there are people smoking near me, I feel that I am breathing in their smoke. This makes me a smoker even though I don’t want to be ”.

or by providing a shared belief.

2. Common Sense:

Everyone knows / it’s common knowledge that / it’s no secret that

“ It’s common knowledge secondhand smoke is very unhealthy for nonsmokers ”.

or by providing figures or percentages .

3. Statistics:

“ Secondhand smoke causes about 250,000 respiratory infections in infants and children every year, resulting in about 15,000 hospitalizations each year ”.

or by providing the voice of another .

4 . Expert Opinion:

According to…/ to quote…/ the book _____ says…

“ According to the Environmental Protection Agency, secondhand smoke causes approximately 3,000 lung cancer deaths in nonsmokers each year ”.

For the IELTS test, there is not enough time or number of words to allow completely for this academic style, so although IELTS writing is not informal, it is much more semi-academic in style .

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I hope that you found this information useful and you have taken on board some of the tips.

Please share to someone you know and in the meantime take a look at my

Facebook Page  and  Website for IELTS answers   and you can also join my Facebook Group  here too.

I also recommend taking a look at my free blog below, or sign up to my Newsletter which gives further instruction on how to give that perfect Task Response:

The Best Approach to Task 2 Writing

Paragraphing in Task 2 Writing

Strong Arguments for Task 2

Writing the Introduction

Writing a Line of Argument

Cohesion for Task 2 Writing

Writing – Benefits of a Foreign University Education

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IELTS Writing: Task 2 Essay

Task 2 of the IELTS writing exam is similar for both academic IELTS exam and general  IELTS exam , and candidates are assessed according to exactly the same criteria. The task requires candidates to write an essay of over 250 words in 40 minutes.

How to Score well

• Clearly understand the   requirements  of the task
• Able to   paraphrase  key words in the task direction
• Able to correctly   structure  your answer (few test-takers do this well!)
• Able to use   language  to accurately and precisely describe the opinion or argument you are presenting.
• Able to vary   grammatical structures  and control grammar for accuracy.

In order to understand the types of essays more fully you should go to the page for each type of  essay. These include model answers for each type of question:

opinion essay ,

both sides and opinion essay ,

two question essay .

IELTS Writing Correction

6 thoughts on “IELTS Writing: Task 2 Essay”

Thank you so much for the useful material you produce and generously sharing with us. It has improved my understanding.

Thanks for your comments.

extraordinarily help regarding ESSAY WRITING THANKS

Today more people are travelling than ever before. Why is this the case? What are the benefits of travelling for the travellers?

Nowadays, in our society people are more likely to avail advanced levels of knowledge and facilities for a better livelihood. Therefore, people want to travel around the world rather than in the past. In this essay, some social causes and advantages of travelling will illustrate.

There are numerous reasons why people need to travel around the world and in their circumstances. Firstly, people are being advanced due to mass media, they are urged towards advancements; in this way, they might be preferred to learn advanced knowledge Internationally. For getting this capability students do prefer to study abroad for exploring their modern skills as well as enhance their intellectual abilities. Additionally, in the past people were not influenced towards exploring new things and entertaining themselves through travelling. The reason is mainly the limited developed travel system and inadequate knowledge of the modern era. However, people are facing social issues but they want to explore civilization by tourism. They tend to travel for self amusement because of their interest, they want to visit historical places to acquire knowledge regarding history, customs and lifestyles of particular regions. For instance, some people who want to become journalists have the ability to explore and record them through their journey. As a result, traveling is a main route to reveal hidden talent among International students and tourists.

Travelling around the globe has enormous hidden advantages especially for our offsprings who really want to upgrade themselves. The main benefit which has been popular and needs time is to seek a superior academic standard, which can only be achieved through travelling to top class universities. Students can avail their goals when they have a chance of visiting international institutes. They may enhance their language skills and also get the opportunity to learn about the diversity of tradition. Moreover, the people might achieve their career skills through this travelling by source of employment. They may be able to support their family financially if they travel abroad to seek work with advanced skills. In this way, they lead to prosperity.

To conclude, travelling has become more popular currently because of study purposes and also for entertainment rather than past generations. Exploring the modern world is the main cause of travelling.

I would like to get your evaluation Regarding my essay writing style and structure according to Question prompt

1. Reason one mention the immediate just “muddies” the issue and you should just stick to people wanting to study 2. Solution two, you don’t really need to mention “especially for our offspring” many people don’t have offspring and still benefit for the exact same reason you’re mentioning

This seems to be around band seven overall I have not spent much time on this because it’s a free edit and if you want complete feedback along with a band score for each of the four criteria you need to use my writing correction service: https://www.ieltsanswers.com/writing-correction-ielts.html

Thank you so much for the useful material you produce and generously sharing with us. It has improved my understanding of IELTS writing task 2. Am so positive that the information i have gained from his post will help me tackling my test.

Thanks, Anna for taking the time to comment. I appreciate your support.

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About Mike I’m Mike Wattie from Australia. I have been teaching IELTS for over 20 years in Asia and Australia.

I have written IELTS books and this enables me to be an effective tutor. This is because I understand the main problems that students have taking the test and also the ways to overcome them.

Maybe you would like me to teach you the necessary skills and strategies to pass your test.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

Ielts writing task 2 page.

This page gives information and advice on IELTS writing task 2.

Task 2 is very similar for the general training and academic modules.

You will have to write a 250-word essay on a common topic.

See the list of essay writing topics .

Writing Test PDF Download

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Structure

• Place your ideas into paragraphs.
• The best IELTS writing task 2 essays have four or five paragraphs.
• Good paragraphing shows the examiner that your essay is well-organized.
• This structure also helps you write well-developed sentences.
• In this way, your essay will meet the 250-word requirement.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Paragraphs

Students sometimes worry because they don’t know when to begin a new paragraph when they are writing an essay.

In general, you can organize your work as shown in the next section of this page.

This method of organization will demonstrate that you have thought about your response and planned your essay well.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Paragraph 1 (The Introduction)

• The first paragraph provides is the introduction to the essay.
• This paragraph should include a clear thesis statement .
• The thesis statement is a sentence which indicates your main idea.
• The first paragraph can also give the reader an overview.
• The overview says what your supporting points are going to be.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Paragraph 2

• In the second paragraph, you should expand on your first supporting point.
• Your essay might appear more persuasive if you state your strongest point in this paragraph.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Paragraphs 3 and 4

• You should elaborate on your main idea in the third paragraph.
• Here you should give the second supporting point of your argument.
• Then mention the third supporting point in paragraph four.
• This can be the supporting point that you feel to be the weakest.
• You can combine these two points into one paragraph instead.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Paragraph 5 (The Conclusion)

• In the final paragraph of the task 2 essay, you should come to a conclusion.
• The conclusion should sum up your argument.

IELTS Writing – More Help

If you need help with your report-writing skills for the academic module or letter writing skills for the general training module, please click on the first link below.

Go to Writing Task 1

Writing Task Tips

• A Beginner’s Guide to IELTS
• Common Grammar Mistakes [for IELTS Writing Candidates]

Writing Correction Service

• Free IELTS Resources
• Practice Speaking Test

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7 Steps to Structuring an IELTS Task 2 Essay

Posted by David S. Wills | Apr 6, 2020 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 0

In this week’s article, I want to show you how to structure an IELTS writing task 2 essay. I’ve written about this many times in the past, but today I want to show you a simple, 7-step approach that can guide you to the perfect essay.

First of all, I want to mention that there are lots of ways to write an amazing essay. There are also 5 different kinds of question, hundreds of topics, and lots of different combinations. This means that you cannot just memorise an answer or even memorise a structure. You can learn about that in my IELTS books :

However, this article will give you a guide to writing a great essay structure by logically sequencing your ideas. This can help you to score highly for Coherence and Cohesion, which is worth 25% of your writing score.

IELTS Essay Structure: The Basics

Before we begin with the 7 steps, I would like to give you a short overview. Writing an IELTS essay requires many skills and you have a lot of different criteria to meet in order to get a band 7 or above. Your essay will be judged in four ways, each accounting for 25% of the total score:

• Task Achievement
• Coherence and Cohesion
• Lexical Resource
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy

When thinking about structuring an essay, we are essentially talking about Coherence and Cohesion . Being able to produce a strong structure with logically sequenced ideas will give you a good chance of a high score in this section.

There are lots of different approaches, but most IELTS trainers agree that a four-paragraph structure is the best approach, with five paragraphs sometimes being appropriate. [ Read about 4 vs 5 paragraphs ] You should aim to divide your ideas sensibly and then build them in order to support your thesis or explain the issues as necessary.

Today, the steps that I will describe for you are as follows:

• Analyse the Question
• Brainstorm Ideas
• Plan your Overall Structure
• Plan your Internal Paragraph Structure
• Write a Strong Introduction
• Link your Sentences
• Write a Good Conclusion

1. Analyse the Question

Every IELTS question is different and so it is really important that you read it carefully in order to understand it fully. If you just read it quickly, you might get the wrong idea. It is natural for our brains to see a word and jump to a conclusion. For example, a question that mentions climate change might really be asking about solutions to fossil fuel emissions rather than the consequences of global warming. If you don’t understand the question, you cannot write a good answer.

Before you begin brainstorming , read the question at least twice. Let’s look at an example:

Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to make people recycle more is to make it a legal requirement. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

When you first look at this question, your eyes will be drawn to keywords like “waste” and “recycle.” That is good, but we need to understand the full sentence. What sort of waste are we talking about? Waste from homes . What does “legal requirement” mean? It means make it a law .

You will always see a statement of some sort above and then the question below. Once you understand the statement, you should read the question. In this case, the question is “To what extent do you agree…?”

Therefore, you need to choose a position ( agree/disagree ) and then write an essay that explains your position.

Note: Some IELTS candidates believe that you have to give a balanced viewpoint. This is not necessarily true. You can read about it in this article .

2. Brainstorm Ideas

Once you understand the question, you can begin to think of ideas to use in your essay. My biggest piece of advice here is: DON’T CHOOSE TOO MANY IDEAS!!

Seriously, it is not helpful to use lots of different ideas or examples in your essay. Yes, this might help you reach 250 words easily, but your essay will definitely get a low score for Coherence and Cohesion (and possibly Task Achievement) because it will not be well organized and probably will lack sufficient development of ideas.

I encourage my writing students to follow the idea of ONE PARAGRAPH, ONE IDEA. In some essay types, this is easy. For example, in an advantages/disadvantages essay , you can just devote one body paragraph to advantages and the other to disadvantages. Simple!

However, in other types of essay, you might find it harder. With agree/disagree essays, you might have two reasons why you agree. In this case, you just put one reason in each body paragraph.

Let’s brainstorm now.

Personally, I agree that laws should be passed that require people to recycle their household waste. Therefore, I would consider the following ideas:

Those are just some ideas. Sometimes you will struggle to think of even two ideas and sometimes you will easily think of five or six. The important thing, though, is to choose the most important ones. Think about what would make the most convincing argument.

3. Plan your Overall Structure

By “overall structure,” I mean your basic paragraph plan. Every IELTS writing task 2 essay should have an introduction and conclusion , and at least two body paragraphs. This is the standard essay format and I highly recommend that you practice with it. Essays that have lots of paragraphs are usually a mess and will receive low scores for Coherence and Cohesion.

I want to write an advanced essay that will score band 9, so I am going to use an interesting structure that will allow me to show off my essay-writing skills. My first body paragraph will look at opposing viewpoints and then refute them, before the second body paragraph concisely states why we do need laws that make people recycle.  

For this essay, my overall structure would look like this:

This is a pretty simple and flexible paragraph structure. I highly recommend that you use it because once you become comfortable with it, you can really adapt it a lot. Even though it is basic and you can use it for scoring band 6, you can also use this structure for band 9 essays.

The reason is that you can vary the content of your body paragraphs greatly. Here, I have tried to give balance to the argument, even though I agree with one side – the need for laws. However, rather than simply state two compelling reasons, I will first dismiss the counter-arguments and then give an argument in favour of my viewpoint.

4. Plan your Internal Paragraph Structure

This is the most difficult part of structuring an essay and it is the reason why most people struggle to get a high score for Coherence and Cohesion.

It is really, really important for IELTS writing that your ideas are sequenced logically. That means they go from one idea to the next in a logical way. Look at these two example passages. One contains a logical flow of ideas and the other does not. Can you tell which is which?

• The case in favour of laws mandating recycling is simple and irrefutable. These laws would ensure that a far higher amount of household waste is recycled, thereby reducing the amount of pollution that goes into our environment. People cannot be trusted to do this for themselves, and the evidence exists in the places where environmental laws are strictly enforced, compared to those where they are non-existent, or weakly enforced.
• These laws would ensure that a far higher amount of household waste is recycled, thereby reducing the amount of pollution that goes into our environment. People cannot be trusted to do this for themselves, and the evidence exists in the places where environmental laws are strictly enforced, compared to those where they are non-existent, or weakly enforced. The case in favour of laws mandating recycling is simple and irrefutable.

Which one is correct? Answer: #1.

In this answer, I began with a topic sentence . This is a sentence that introduces an idea. I then explained that idea in more detail. Finally, I added another sentence that built upon the previous two. Both the second and third sentences supported the first. When you put them in the wrong order, they make no sense.

Finally, notice that I used certain words to refer back to previous ideas: these laws , do this .

5. Write a Strong Introduction

It’s really important with any kind of writing to give a strong introduction. This grabs your reader’s attention but also tells them what to expect from your writing. If an examiner reads a really terrible introduction, they will think that your body paragraphs are likely to be very bad, too.

As such, it is important that you devote a little time to writing an excellent intro.

What does that involve?

I recommend that people generally write a three-sentence introduction. (However, remember that there is no one perfect way to write an essay and so there are other good possibilities.)

I suggest this:

• General statement that addresses the topic.
• Slightly more specific statement that relates wider topic to specific question.
• A sentence that shows essay intention or overview. (This is often called an outline sentence .)

For the above question, I would write an introduction like this:

Pollution remains a significant problem all around the world and this is causing people to debate possible solutions. One such solution is for governments to impose laws requiring citizens to recycle certain kinds of waste from their homes. This essay will argue that environmental laws are essential to reducing waste and thereby saving the planet.

Let’s look at how those sentences are structured:

• A very general statement: pollution is a problem; people discuss solutions.
• More specific statement: introduce potential solution with simple detail
• Essay statement: state that laws are essential for solving problem

6. Link your Sentences

Next, you are going to need to write the body paragraphs. With your essay structure already written, it should not be too hard to do this. You need to follow a simple but effective internal paragraph structure that develops and supports each idea.

When you do this, it is important that you link your sentences. Now, if you have a good enough structure, your sentences will already be linked. That is because your ideas will flow naturally from one to the next.

As you will know, it is possible to use “ cohesive devices ” (also called transitional or linking words/phrases etc). These include words and phrases like: however, therefore, next, after that, meanwhile, on the other hand . They are very useful and help guide your reader, but you should not overuse them or it will make your writing weak.

Let’s look at my third paragraph as an example.

The case in favour of laws mandating recycling is simple and irrefutable. These laws would ensure that a far higher amount of household waste is recycled, thereby reducing the amount of pollution that goes into our environment. People cannot be trusted to do this for themselves, and the evidence exists in the places where environmental laws are strictly enforced, compared to those where they are non-existent, or weakly enforced. In the United Kingdom, people are required to recycle most of their household waste, and the environment is far cleaner than other countries, such as China, where people can throw any trash away without consequences.

How many cohesive devices did I use?

None. My sentences were already well-organized, so I did not need to use any.

You can read all about not using too many cohesive devices here .

7. Write a Good Conclusion

Finally, you must finish all your IELTS writing task 2 essays with a conclusion . This means a final paragraph that summarizes everything you have said so far and then references your key ideas. This can be either one or two sentences, but don’t write much more than that.

A conclusion will also differ according to the question type. Some might require you to make a suggestion or state an opinion, while others will really just require you to summarize you have said.

It is a pretty good idea to follow a structure like this:

• Paraphrase your main idea.
• Re-state your main arguments.

For example, here is my conclusion from the above question:

In conclusion, laws are absolutely essential to ensure that people recycle their household waste. Without such laws, very few people would actually go to the trouble of recycling; however, if governments enforce these laws, almost everyone would have to comply.

In this conclusion, the first sentence paraphrases my main idea (laws are necessary) and the second sentence re-states my main arguments (people would not recycle without laws; laws make people recycle).

Note that I have avoided repeating myself. In these two lines, I have simply referred to my previous arguments but I have not copied the things I already said. I have used new language for it.

Sample Band 9 Answer

Next, I will show you my answer for this question. Remember that this is just one possible answer. There are other ways to write a band 9 score. However, I do think that this is the best way because it is easy to learn and apply to your own essays. I recommend that you download the essay as a Microsoft Word (.docx) file because I have annotated it fully. You can see a clear explanation of what purpose each sentence has.

Sample Answer

Pollution remains a significant problem all around the world and this is causing people to debate possible solutions. One such solution is for governments to impose laws requiring citizens to recycle certain kinds of waste from their homes. This essay will argue that environmental laws are essential to reducing waste and thereby saving the planet. The case against laws imposing mandatory recycling revolve around the notion that people can learn to recycle by themselves, and this is true to an extent. With the improvement of education, people typically litter less and recycle more. However, our planet is presently in the grips of environmental catastrophe and it would take several generations for people to make changes to their lives. It is also sometimes argued that poor people cannot afford to make the sacrifice necessary to use less plastic and switch to sustainable products, and it is therefore unfair to punish them. However, mandatory recycling would not require people to immediately give up plastics; instead, they would simply be required to dispose of them in an ethical manner at a government-run recycling facility. The case in favour of laws mandating recycling is simple and irrefutable. These laws would ensure that a far higher amount of household waste is recycled, thereby reducing the amount of pollution that goes into our environment. People cannot be trusted to do this for themselves, and the evidence exists in the places where environmental laws are strictly enforced, compared to those where they are non-existent, or weakly enforced. In the United Kingdom, people are required to recycle most of their household waste, and the environment is far cleaner than other countries, such as China, where people can throw any trash away without consequences. In conclusion, laws are absolutely essential to ensure that people recycle their household waste. Without such laws, very few people would actually go to the trouble of recycling; however, if governments enforce these laws, almost everyone would have to comply.

You can download a copy of that sample essay here . This will allow you to see all of my annotations like this:

Improving your Writing Skills

If you really want to get better at IELTS writing, the best way is to have an expert check your work. People who use my writing correction service find that they can quickly identify their mistakes and improve their overall IELTS score.

E-mail me at david [at] ted-ielts [dot] com to find out more, or check the above link.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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100 IELTS Essay Questions

Below are practice IELTS essay questions and topics for writing task 2. The 100 essay questions have been used many times over the years. The questions are organised under common topics and essay types. IELTS often use the similar topics for their essays but change the wording of the essay question.

In order to prepare well for writing task 2, you should prepare ideas for common topics and then practise applying them to the tasks given (to the essay questions). Also see model essays and tips  for writing task 2.

Below you will find:

• Essay Questions By Topic
• Essay Questions by Essay Type (for example Opinion, Discussion etc)

Please also note that my new Grammar E-book is now available in my store along with my Ideas for Essay Topics E-book and Advanced Writing Lessons. To visit store, click here: IELTS LIZ STORE

1) Common IELTS Essay Questions

IELTS practice essay questions divided by topic. These topics have been reported by IELTS students in their tests. Essay questions have been recreated as accurately as possible.

• Art   (5 essay questions)
• Business & Money   (17 essay questions)
• Communication & Personality   (20 essay questions)
• Crime & Punishment   (12 essay questions)
• Education   (17 essay questions)
• Environment   (12 essay questions)
• Family & Children   (8 essay questions)
• Food & Diet (13 essay questions)
• Government (6 essay questions)
• Health   (9 essay questions)
• Housing, Buildings & Urban Planning (8 essay questions)
• Language (6 essay questions)
• Leisure (1 essay question)
• Media & Advertising   (12 essay questions)
• Reading  (5 essay questions)
• Society   (10 essay questions)
• Space Exploration (3 questions)
• Sport & Exercise   (6 essay questions)
• Technology  (6 essay questions)
• Tourism and Travel   (11 essay questions)
• Transport  (7 essay questions)
• Work (17 essay questions)

2) IELTS Essay Questions by Essay Type 

There are 5 main types of essay questions in IELTS writing task 2 (opinion essays, discussion essay, advantage/disadvantage essays, solution essay and direct question essays). Click on the links below to see some sample essay questions for you to practice with at home.

• Opinion Essay Model Answer with Useful Tips
• Discussion Essay Model Answer with Useful Tips
• Solution Essay Model Answer with Useful Tips
• Direct Questions Model Essay 
• Adv/Disadv Model Essay with Useful Tips

3) Recent Essay Topics

You can also track recent essay topics on this page: IELTS ESSAY TOPICS 2024

Note: you must also prepare all other topics on the page above because questions are recycled each year.

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IELTS Task 2 Essays Understand the 5 Different Types

There are 5 main types of IELTS Task 2 essays:

1)    Opinion Essays  

2)    Discussion Essays

3)    Problem Solution Essays

4)    Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

5)    Double Question Essays

Most questions fit one of these categories. However, questions can be written in many different ways, which can make it difficult to determine which type they are.

On this page, I want to give you an overview of all 5 IELTS Task 2 essay types, with samples questions to help you recognise some of the different wording often used. I’ve also included a basic structure for each that you can use to as a guide for essay planning, a vital step in the writing process.

I go into each type of question in more detail on its own page.  Click the links above or at the bottom of this page to see these. 

First, here’s the basic 4 part structure I recommend that you use for Task 2 essays:

1)  Introduction

2)  Main Body Paragraph 1 

3)  Main Body Paragraph 2 

4)  Conclusion

Want  to watch and listen to this lesson?

Click on this video.

The sort of information you include in each of the 4 sections will vary depending on the question type and that’s what I’m now going to outline for you.

These easy to learn structures will enable you to quickly plan and write any IELTS Task 2 essay.

The structures below are not the only ones you could use but they are the ones I recommend because they’re simple and give proven results.

1) Opinion Essays

These are sometimes called ‘agree or disagree’ or ‘argumentative’ essays and are one of the most common types of IELTS Task 2 question.

The first part of the question will be a statement. You will then be asked to give your own opinion about the statement. Here is some typical wording that might be used:

• What is your opinion?
• Do you agree or disagree?
• To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Here is an example of each:

• Choose one side of the argument.
• State your opinion clearly in the introduction.
• Keep the same opinion throughout the essay.
• Give reasons why you hold this view.

It doesn’t matter which side of the argument you take or even that you agree with it. Choose the one you can develop the best argument for.

Don’t change your opinion part way through the essay and don’t give reasons for the opposing idea.

Essay Structure

1) Introduction

• Paraphrase the question
• Give your opinion
• State two supporting reasons

2) Main body paragraph 1

• Topic sentence – outline 1st reason for supporting this view
• Explanation – explain this idea
• Example – give an example

3)  Main body paragraph 2

• Topic sentence – outline 2nd reason for supporting this view
• Summarise opinion and key reasons

2) Discussion Essays

In discussion essays, you have to discuss both sides of an argument. Usually, you will be asked for your own opinion as well.

The easiest way to approach this type of IELTS Task 2 question is to choose one point of view to agree with and one side to disagree with.

Here are 3 examples of discussion essay questions:

• Develop both sides of the argument.
• Talk about the view you don’t agree with first.

A big mistake many students make is to fully develop only one point of view. This leads to an unbalanced essay and a low score for task achievement. 

It is easier to begin by discussing the opinion you don’t agree with and then present the reasons for your opposing view.

2)  Main body paragraph 1 – Negative Viewpoint

• Topic sentence – outline the view you don’t agree with
• Explanation – explain why this view is held by some people

3)  Main body paragraph 2 – Positive Viewpoint

• Topic sentence – outline the view you do agree with
• Summarise the key points and state your opinion

3)  Problem Essays  

These are sometimes called ‘causes and solutions’ or ‘problems and solutions’ essays. This type of IELTS Task 2 question starts with a statement, then asks you to discuss the problems or causes and the solutions.

• Don’t list lots of causes and solutions.
• Choose just one or two and develop them fully.
• Be sure to link each problem/cause and its solution.

A common mistake is for candidates to list all the problems/causes and solutions they can think of, not necessarily linking them together.  They also fail to explain any of them in detail and don’t include any examples.

The wording of this type of essay question can vary considerably.  Here are 3 examples of problem essay questions:

• State 1 key problem/cause and related solution

2)  Main body paragraph 1 – Problem or Cause

• Topic sentence – state the problem or cause
• Explanation – give detail explaining the problem or cause

3)  Main body paragraph 2 – Solution

• Topic sentence – state the solution
• Explanation – give detail explaining the solution

4)  Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

The first part of the question will be a statement. You will be asked to write about both the advantages and disadvantages of the idea stated.

Here is some typical wording that might be used:

• What are the advantages and disadvantages of….?
• Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your opinion.

Here are 3 examples of advantages and disadvantages essay questions:

Each of these different types of questions fits into one of two slightly different essay structures. We’ll look at these in detail on the main IELTS Task 2 Advantages & Disadvantages Essays page. For now, I’ll give you the basic structure.

• Outline the view or views stated the statement

2)  Main body paragraph 1 – Advantage

• Topic sentence – state 1 advantage
• Explanation – give detail explaining the advantage
• Result – state the result

3)  Main body paragraph 2 – Disadvantage

• Topic sentence – state 1 disadvantage
• Explanation – give detail explaining the disadvantage
• Summarise the key points
• State your opinion if required

5)  Double Question Essays

This type of IELTS Task 2 question is sometimes called a ‘direct question’ or ‘two questions’ essay. It has one statement with two different questions after it. The questions may or may not be linked.

• You must answer both questions fully.
• Don’t confuse it with an opinion or a discussion essay.
• Be careful that you don’t end up with too many ideas to write about.

Here are 3 examples of double question essay questions:

• Outline sentence – state your answer to both questions

2)  Main body paragraph 1 – Answer question 1

• Topic sentence – state your answer
• Explanation – explain why you think this

3)  Main body paragraph 2 – Answer question 2

• Summarise both questions and answers

I hope you’ve found this information useful. You can learn lots more about writing the 5 different types of IELTS Task 2 essay and see sample answers on these pages:

The 5 Task 2 Essay Types:

Step-by-step instructions on how to plan & write high-level essays. Model answers & common mistakes to avoid.

   Opinion Essays

   Discussion Essays

  Problem Solution Essays

  Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

  Double Question Essays

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More help with ielts task 2.

IELTS Writing Task 2  – T he format, the 5 question types, the 5 step essay writing strategy & sample questions. All the key information you need to know.

Understanding Task 2 Questions  – How to quickly and easily analyse and understand IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.

How To Plan a Task 2 Essay  – Discover why essay planning is essential & learn a simple 4 step strategy, the 4 part essay structure & 4 methods of generating ideas.

How To Write a Task 2 Introduction  – Find out why a good introduction is essential. Learn how to write one using a simple 3 part strategy & discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

How To Write Task 2 Main Body Paragraphs  – Learn the simple 3 part structure for writing great main body paragraphs and also, 3 common mistakes to avoid. 

How To Write Task 2 Conclusions  – Learn the easy way to write the perfect conclusion for a Task 2 essay. Also discover 4 common mistakes to avoid.

Task 2 Marking Criteria  – Find out how to meet the marking criteria for IELTS Task 2. See examples of good and poor answers & learn some common mistakes to avoid.

Other related pages:

IELTS Writing Test  – Understand the format & marking criteria, know what skills are assessed & learn the difference between the Academic & General writing tests.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Topic: How to sum up in an argumentative essay

Updated On Dec 08, 2021

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Table of Contents

There are a multitude of ways to conclude in ielts writing task 2..

Limited-Time Offer : Access a FREE 10-Day IELTS Study Plan!

This post will furnish you with some most useful expressions to restate your opinion and summarize your conclusion for IELTS Writing Task 2.  These phrases were compiled from the famous Oxford Advanced Learner’s Dictionary.

• All things considered,   it seems reasonable to assume that the introduction of new street lighting did not reduce reported crime.”
• In conclusion , the study has provided useful insights into the issues relating to people’s perception of crime.
• Based on this study, it can be concluded that  the introduction of new street lighting did not reduce reported crime.
• To sum up ,   no evidence can be found to support the view that improved street lighting reduces reported crime.
• The available evidence clearly leads to the conclusion that  the media do have an influence on the public perception of crime.
• Above all , it seems pertinent to remember that the media do have an influence on the public perception of crime. ”
• The main conclusion to be drawn from this study is that  public perception of crime is significantly influenced by crime news reporting.
• This study has shown that  people’s fear of crime is out of all proportion to crime itself.
• Fear of crime is out of all proportion to the actual level of crime,  and the reasons for this can be summarized as follows. First…
• Overall/ In general,   women are more likely than men to feel insecure walking alone after dark.
• I find it difficult to reach a conclusion but I’m tempted to say that  public perception of crime is significantly influenced by crime news reporting.

Also check :

• Tips to Improve IELTS Writing Skills
• IELTS Writing recent actual test
• Band 9 essays
• Advantage and Disadvantage Essays
• IELTS Writing Answer sheet
• IELTS map vocabulary
• IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors

Practice IELTS Writing Task 2 based on Essay types

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Janet had been an IELTS Trainer before she dived into the field of Content Writing. During her days of being a Trainer, Janet had written essays and sample answers which got her students an 8+ band in the IELTS Test. Her contributions to our articles have been engaging and simple to help the students understand and grasp the information with ease. Janet, born and brought up in California, had no idea about the IELTS until she moved to study in Canada. Her peers leaned to her for help as her first language was English.

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Supporting Children with Autism in School – Sample Essays and Analysis

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is a complex developmental condition that affects a growing number of children worldwide. As inclusive education becomes more prevalent, the topic of supporting children with autism in schools has gained significant attention. This subject is not only crucial for educators and policymakers but also increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays.

Based on recent trends, we can expect this topic to appear more frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a potential question that aligns closely with real IELTS tasks:

Some people believe that children with autism should be educated in special schools, while others argue they should be integrated into mainstream classrooms. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Table of Contents

• 1 Analysis of the Question
• 2 Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
• 3 Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
• 4 Key Points to Note When Writing
• 5 Important Vocabulary to Remember

Analysis of the Question

This question presents a classic IELTS Task 2 format, asking candidates to discuss two opposing views and provide their own perspective. The topic is timely and relevant, focusing on the educational approach for children with autism. To answer effectively, candidates must:

• Discuss arguments for special schools
• Explore reasons for integration in mainstream classrooms
• Present a balanced view of both sides
• Provide a clear, well-supported personal opinion

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The education of children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) has been a subject of intense debate in recent years. While some advocate for specialized educational settings, others argue for integration into mainstream classrooms. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of special schools for autistic children argue that these institutions are better equipped to meet the unique needs of students with ASD. Specialized facilities often have smaller class sizes, trained staff, and tailored curricula that can provide individualized attention and support. Moreover, these environments can offer sensory-friendly spaces and specific therapies that may not be readily available in mainstream schools. Such focused care, it is argued, can lead to better academic and social outcomes for children with autism.

On the other hand, those favoring integration into mainstream classrooms contend that this approach promotes inclusivity and better prepares autistic children for life in a diverse society. Exposure to neurotypical peers can enhance social skills and foster understanding and acceptance on both sides. Additionally, integrated settings may challenge autistic children to develop coping strategies and communication skills that will be valuable throughout their lives. Supporters also argue that inclusion benefits all students by teaching empathy and diversity appreciation.

In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines elements of both special education and mainstream integration would be most beneficial. I believe in a flexible system where the level of integration is tailored to each child’s individual needs and abilities. This could involve partial integration, where autistic students spend some time in specialized settings and some in mainstream classrooms. Such an approach would provide the benefits of specialized support while also offering opportunities for social interaction and integration.

In conclusion, while both special schools and mainstream integration have their merits, a nuanced, individualized approach is likely to yield the best outcomes for children with autism. Education systems should strive to provide a range of options to accommodate the diverse needs of autistic students, ensuring that each child receives the support they need to thrive academically and socially.

(Word count: 310)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The education of children with autism is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think these children should go to special schools, while others believe they should be in regular classrooms with other kids. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

People who support special schools for autistic children say that these schools are better for them. These schools have teachers who know how to work with autistic kids and can give them more attention. They also have special equipment and ways of teaching that help autistic children learn better. In these schools, kids with autism might feel more comfortable and not get bullied.

On the other hand, people who think autistic children should be in regular schools say this is good for everyone. When autistic kids are with other children, they can learn how to make friends and talk to different people. This can help them later in life. Also, other children can learn about autism and how to be kind to everyone. This might make society better in the future.

I think that both ideas have good points. Maybe the best way is to have a mix of both. Some autistic children might do well in regular schools with extra help, while others might need to be in special schools. It’s important to look at each child and see what they need. Some children could spend part of their time in a special class and part in a regular class.

In conclusion, there are good reasons for both special schools and regular schools for autistic children. The most important thing is to make sure each child gets the help they need to learn and be happy. Schools should try to find ways to support all children, whether they have autism or not.

(Word count: 293)

Key Points to Note When Writing

Structure : Both essays follow a clear four-paragraph structure: introduction, two body paragraphs discussing each view, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion. This organization is crucial for achieving higher band scores.

• Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
• Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity and coherence.

Coherence and Cohesion :

• Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect ideas.
• The higher band essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph and sentence-level cohesion.

Task Response :

• Both essays address all parts of the question, discussing both views and giving an opinion.
• The Band 8-9 essay provides more nuanced arguments and a more developed personal opinion.

Lexical Resource :

• The Band 8-9 essay showcases a wider range of vocabulary related to education and autism.
• The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler terms but still effectively communicates ideas.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

Autism spectrum disorder (ASD) (noun) /ˈɔːtɪzəm ˈspektrəm dɪsˈɔːdə(r)/: A developmental disorder characterized by difficulties with social interaction and communication.

Inclusive education (noun) /ɪnˈkluːsɪv ˌedʒuˈkeɪʃn/: An approach to education that includes all students, regardless of their abilities or disabilities.

Mainstream classroom (noun) /ˈmeɪnstriːm ˈklɑːsruːm/: A regular classroom setting where students of all abilities are taught together.

Individualized attention (noun) /ˌɪndɪˈvɪdʒuəlaɪzd əˈtenʃn/: Personalized focus and support given to each student based on their specific needs.

Sensory-friendly (adjective) /ˈsensəri ˈfrendli/: Designed to be comfortable for individuals with sensory processing difficulties.

Neurotypical (adjective) /ˌnjʊərəʊˈtɪpɪkl/: Describing individuals without autism or other neurological differences.

Coping strategies (noun) /ˈkəʊpɪŋ ˈstrætədʒiz/: Methods used to deal with stress or challenging situations.

Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/: The ability to understand and share the feelings of another.

Tailored curricula (noun) /ˈteɪləd kəˈrɪkjələ/: Educational programs designed to meet specific needs or requirements.

Integration (noun) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/: The process of combining or adding parts to make a unified whole.

In conclusion, the topic of supporting children with autism in schools is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future questions might explore related themes such as:

• The role of technology in supporting autistic students
• Training teachers to work with children with special needs
• The impact of inclusive education on society

To practice, try writing your own essay on the given topic or one of these related themes. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember, regular practice is key to improving your IELTS writing skills!

• IELTS essay samples
• Sample Essay
• Vocabulary List

IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Teaching Children About Healthy Relationships

Teaching Children the Importance of Kindness: A Comprehensive IELTS Writing Guide

Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Develop Emotional Intelligence in Children – Sample Essays and Analysis

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Counter Argument là gì? Cách cải thiện điểm thi IELTS Writing

Counter Argument là gì? Cấu trúc và cách ứng dụng Counter Argument vào bài thi IELTS Writing Task 2 như thế nào? Cùng IDP tìm hiểu ngay!

Chủ đề bài viết

Trong bài thi IELTS, khả năng lập luận và diễn đạt là tiêu chí chấm điểm vô cùng quan trọng. Vì vậy, một trong những yếu tố tiên quyết để chinh phục phần thi IELTS Writing Task 2 chính là khả năng đưa ra những lập luận phản bác - Counter Arguments một cách thuyết phục. Vậy Counter Argument là gì? Cấu trúc ra sao? Làm thế nào để sử dụng chúng hiệu quả giúp bạn đạt được số điểm mơ ước? Cùng IDP IELTS khám phá chi tiết trong bài viết dưới đây!

1. Counter Argument là gì?

Counter Argument là gì? Counter Argument hay lập luận phản bác là việc bạn đưa ra quan điểm, dẫn chứng, những ý kiến trái ngược hoặc đối lập với luận điểm chính để bác bỏ quan điểm đó.

Counter Argument là quan điểm, dẫn chứng đối lập với luận điểm chính

Trong bài thi IELTS Writing, việc sử dụng Counter Argument không chỉ giúp bạn đạt được điểm cao hơn mà còn giúp bạn rèn luyện kỹ năng tư duy phản biện và trình bày lập luận một cách logic, mạch lạc.

2. Cấu trúc của Counter Argument và cách triển khai

Counter Argument thường bao gồm 2 phần:

Counter Argument - Luận điểm phản đề: Trình bày ý kiến đối lập với mình.

Refutation - Phản bác: Phản bác, làm rõ thiếu sót của ý kiến đối lập đó và phản biện, đưa ra các quan điểm rõ ràng và thuyết phục.

Ví dụ:  

Mục tiêu của người viết: Chứng minh việc sử dụng mạng xã hội quá mức có thể gây ra nhiều tác động tiêu cực đến giới trẻ, bao gồm các vấn đề về sức khỏe, học tập và các mối quan hệ xã hội.

3. Ứng dụng Counter Argument vào Writing Task 2

Trong phần thi IELTS Writing Task 2 thực tế, bạn có thể phân tích phần Counter Argument ở một trong hai đoạn của bài viết, chỉ cần đảm bảo tính mạch lạc, rõ ràng, thuyết phục và lập luận chặt chẽ khi phản đề là được. 

Ứng dụng Counter Argument vào IELTS Writing Task 2

Topic: Some people believe that it is more important to protect the environment than to develop the economy. Do you agree or disagree?

Giả sử bạn đang cần viết một bài luận ủng hộ vấn đề bảo vệ môi trường nên được chú trọng hơn việc phát triển kinh tế. Để lập luận thuyết phục, bạn cần đưa ra quan điểm để bác bỏ những người có ý kiến ngược lại (Counter Argument). 

Introduction : While economic development is essential for improving living standards, I believe that environmental protection should be prioritized.

Counter Argument: Detractors might argue that economic growth is necessary to fund environmental protection efforts, and that halting development would harm the global economy. (Ý kiến của những người đối lập cho rằng phát triển kinh tế cần thiết để tài trợ cho các nỗ lực bảo vệ môi trường và nếu kinh tế ngừng phát triển sẽ gây hại cho toàn cầu.)

Refutation: While it is true that a strong economy can provide the resources needed for environmental initiatives, it is equally important to recognize that unchecked economic growth can lead to unsustainable practices that damage the environment. For instance, industrial pollution and deforestation have contributed significantly to climate change and biodiversity loss. By prioritizing environmental protection, we can create a more sustainable future that benefits both the economy and the planet.

(Mặc dù kinh tế phát triển có thể cung cấp tài nguyên cho các nỗ lực bảo vệ môi trường, nhưng tăng trưởng kinh tế không kiểm soát sẽ gây nhiều tác hại cho môi trường. Ví dụ như ô nhiễm công nghiệp và phá rừng góp phần vào biến đổi khí hậu và mất cân bằng sinh học. Bằng cách ưu tiên bảo vệ môi trường, chúng ta có thể tạo ra một tương lai bền vững hơn, có lợi cho cả kinh tế và thế giới.)

→ Có thể thấy, ở phần mở đầu bài viết đã nêu quan điểm thừa nhận tầm quan trọng của phát triển kinh tế nhưng nhấn mạnh rằng nó phải đi đôi với bảo vệ môi trường. Sau đó phần Luận điểm phản đề (Counter Argument) cho rằng có một số ý kiến đối lập. Ở câu tiếp theo, bài viết đưa ra các luận điểm và đưa ra ví dụ về ô nhiễm công nghiệp, phá rừng giúp củng cố lập luận và kết luận rằng ưu tiên bảo vệ môi trường sẽ mang lại lợi ích lâu dài cho cả kinh tế và môi trường.

4. Cách dẫn dắt ý Counter Argument và Refutation

Các câu dẫn dắt đóng vai trò quan trọng và cần thiết để đảm bảo sự liên kết trong bài, giúp bài viết trở nên thuyết phục và đa chiều hơn.

Một số cách phổ biến để dẫn dắt ý Counter Argument

Some people argue that...

It is often argued that...

Critics may claim that...

Some have a problem…

Some take issue with this perspective…

While it is true that..., it is equally important to consider...

Although... is a valid point, it is not the whole story.

Một số cách phổ biến để dẫn dắt ý Refutation 

This justification is reasonable to some degree/ extent…

However, this argument overlooks /fails to consider …

This argument is true to some degree/ extent; however, this justification does not take into account/ not supported by the facts that …

This view seems/ sounds convincing/ persuasive at first, but…

While this position is popular, it is not supported by the facts …

However/ Conversely/ In contrast/ Nevertheless, …

5. Lợi ích của việc sử dụng Counter Argument

Trong bài thi IELTS Writing, việc áp dụng Counter Argument để phản biện mang lại nhiều lợi ích, giúp bài viết của bạn trở nên thuyết phục và được đánh giá cao hơn.

Thể hiện khả năng tư duy phản biện: Khi trình bày cả hai mặt của vấn đề, bạn chứng tỏ được khả năng nhìn nhận vấn đề một cách đa chiều, không chỉ dừng lại ở quan điểm cá nhân. Điều này giúp giám khảo đánh giá cao khả năng tư duy logic và phân tích trong bài viết. 

Tăng tính thuyết phục: Bằng cách thừa nhận và phản bác các quan điểm đối lập, bài viết sẽ thể hiện được sự khách quan, tăng tính thuyết phục và thể hiện rõ quan điểm của người viết một cách mạch lạc xuyên suốt mà không bị tác động bởi các quan điểm trái chiều khác.

Giúp bài viết sinh động hơn: Việc đưa ra các ý kiến đối lập và phản bác giúp bài viết không đơn điệu, một chiều mà trở nên sinh động và hấp dẫn hơn.

6. Lưu ý khi viết Counter Argument

Việc sử dụng Counter Argument là một phương pháp hữu ích giúp bạn viết bài luận IELTS Writing Task 2 tốt, tuy nhiên để đạt band điểm Writing cao thì không bắt buộc phải có Luận điểm phản đề. Vì thế, bạn cần phân tích kỹ đề bài để quyết định có nên sử dụng Counter Argument hay không, nếu quyết định sử dụng Luận điểm phản đề, hãy lên dàn bài cụ thể về cách trình bày để đảm bảo tính logic và mạch lạc của bài viết. 

Lưu ý: Tuy nhiên, không phải trường hợp nào cũng có thể hoặc cũng nên sử dụng cấu trúc Counter Argument trong bài viết IELTS Writing Task 2. Bạn chỉ nên sử dụng cấu trúc này khi có quan điểm rõ ràng đứng về một phía hoặc khi chắc chắn có thể tìm ra được lỗ hổng trong câu lập luận để phản bác lại nó một cách phù hợp.

Hãy tưởng tượng bạn đang viết một bài luận phản đối việc sử dụng trò chơi điện tử. Bạn nghĩ rằng trò chơi điện tử có tác động tiêu cực đến sức khỏe và học tập của thanh thiếu niên. Để lập luận, bạn cần đánh bại lập luận của những người có quan điểm ngược lại (Counter Argument).

Luận điểm của bạn: Video games have a negative impact on teenagers’ health and academic performance.

Counter Argument: The opponents might argue that ……………………………………….

Refutation: However,…………………………………………………………………………….

Gợi ý tham khảo:

Counter Argument: The opponents might argue that video games can improve cognitive skills, such as problem-solving and hand-eye coordination.

Refutation: While it is true that some video games can have cognitive benefits, excessive gaming can lead to a sedentary lifestyle, sleep disturbances, and decreased academic performance. Additionally, the violent content in many video games can desensitize players to violence and aggression.

Sử dụng Counter Argument hiệu quả trong Writing Task 2 cùng IDP!

Hi vọng bài viết trên đã giúp bạn hiểu Counter Argument là gì và khám phá được cách áp dụng Luận điểm phản đề trong việc xây dựng một bài IELTS Writing Task 2 hoàn chỉnh. Bằng cách lập luận và phản bác các quan điểm đối lập, bạn không chỉ thể hiện được khả năng tư duy phản biện mà còn làm cho bài viết của mình trở nên thuyết phục và đa chiều hơn. Khi luyện tập thường xuyên và áp dụng các kỹ năng này, bạn hoàn toàn có thể chinh phục bài thi IELTS với số điểm cao nhất. 

Để biết thêm nhiều mẹo hay, bạn có thể tham khảo nguồn tài liệu luyện thi hoặc tham gia thi thử IELTS miễn phí tại IDP. Khi đến với IDP, bạn có thể lựa chọn linh hoạt một trong hai hình thức thi IELTS trên máy tính hoặc thi IELTS trên giấy phù hợp với nhu cầu và mong muốn của mình. Để thuận tiện và tiết kiệm thời gian, bạn còn có thể linh hoạt lựa chọn ngày thi Nói cùng ngày với lịch thi IELTS của các kỹ năng còn lại.

Nếu bạn đã sẵn sàng, hãy đăng ký kỳ thi IELTS ngay hôm nay!

Về bài viết

Published on August 30, 2024

Quỳnh Khanh

Tôi là Quỳnh Khanh - Content Writer có hơn 5 năm về lĩnh vực giáo dục

Chia sẻ bài viết

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Đăng ký thi thử IELTS miễn phí tại IDP

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