IELTS Writing: What do they want from me?

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/o...