In this episode, we discuss writing tips for academic success in IELTS Task 2.
We look at:
- How to clarify what is expected from you (the IELTS student)
- The 10 basic rules of academic writing
- 3 Stylistic elements for advanced writing (redundancy, parallelism, hedging)
- The most common types of IELTS Task 2 questions
- The process for starting your IELTS essay
- The importance of feedback (from your friends and/or professionals)
How to Clarify What is Expected from You in the IELTS Writing Section
– Introduction to the Writing Section: Explain the two tasks in the IELTS Writing section: Task 1 (reporting for Academic, letter writing for General) and Task 2 (essay writing).
– Understanding Task Requirements: Detail how to interpret the question prompt, word count requirements, and time management.
– Examples of Task Prompts: Provide examples of typical Task 1 and Task 2 prompts.
– Research and Resources: Discuss reliable resources for understanding task expectations (official IELTS website, sample answers, IELTS preparation books).
The 10 Basic Rules of Academic Writing
- Clarity: Use simple, clear language. Avoid complex sentence structures that could confuse the reader.
- Formality: Maintain a formal style. Avoid slang and informal expressions.
- Objectivity: Present information impartially without showing personal feelings.
- Accuracy: Ensure facts and figures, especially in Task 1, are correct.
- Structure: Organize essays with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Cohesion and Coherence: Use linking words to connect ideas smoothly.
- Punctuation and Grammar: Use a variety of sentence structures correctly and punctuate properly.
- Vocabulary: Show a range of vocabulary but ensure it is used appropriately.
- Referencing: In academic tasks, paraphrase and use citations correctly.
- Revision and Proofreading: Check your work for errors and improve clarity.
3 Stylistic Elements for Advanced Writing
– Redundancy: Example: Instead of “I believe that in my opinion…” use “I believe…”. Teach how to trim unnecessary words.
– Parallelism: Illustrate parallel structure in lists or comparisons for coherence. Example: “Reading enhances vocabulary, improves writing, and sharpens critical thinking.”
– Hedging: Demonstrate using language to express probability rather than certainty, e.g., “It seems,” “It is likely that,” etc.
The Most Common Types of IELTS Task 2 Questions
– Opinion Essays: Example – “Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Explain your reason.”
– Discussion Essays: Example – “Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”
– Problem-Solution Essays: Example – “What problems does this cause, and how can they be solved?”
– Two-Part Questions: Example – “What are the benefits and drawbacks of this situation?”
The Process for Starting Your IELTS Essay
– Understanding the Question: Emphasize the importance of fully understanding what the question is asking.
– Brainstorming: Demonstrate brainstorming techniques using a sample prompt.
– Planning: Show how to create an outline, organizing ideas into a logical structure.
– Introduction: Guide on writing introductions that clearly state the essay’s purpose.
– Body Paragraphs: Instructions on developing arguments with examples and explanations.
– Conclusion: Tips for summarizing the main points and restating the thesis without introducing new information.
The Importance of Feedback (from Your Friends and/or Professionals)
– The Role of Feedback: Discuss how feedback helps identify strengths and weaknesses in writing.
– Types of Feedback: Examples of feedback on content relevance, coherence, grammar, and vocabulary.
– Incorporating Feedback: Methods for using feedback to make specific improvements.
– Seeking Professional Help: Advice on when to consider professional tutoring or writing assistance.
– Peer Review: Encourage practising with peers and learning from each other’s writing styles and errors.
Each of these sections can be further expanded with detailed explanations, more examples, and practical exercises tailored for IELTS preparation. Including real IELTS tasks and showcasing high-scoring sample answers can also be beneficial for students to understand what is expected in the writing section.
Join many other students who have achieved IELTS success with our online course or get instant writing feedback with our online IELTS essay checker.
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