Introduction to IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2 is an academic style essay requiring you to respond to a point of view, argument or problem. These types of essays include discussion, analysis, interpretation and evaluation of the given topic. This article will provide an overview of the IELTS Writing Task 2 structure and common essay templates that you can use to plan and structure your response.
Body Paragraph Structure
IELTS assessment criteria rewards well-structured multi-paragraph essays. Examiners expect a clear introduction, body paragraphs and conclusion. Each body paragraph should have a topic sentence stating the main idea to be discussed, supporting details/examples and a linking sentence connecting to the next paragraph.
Template 1: Point by Point Structure
This template focuses on discussing each point of the task one by one in a separate body paragraph. This structure clearly shows the examiner that you have understood each element of the topic. It is an effective way to fully address the key requirements of the essay question.
Body Paragraph 1:
Topic sentence stating the first point
Relevant examples and explanations
Linking sentence to transition to next point
Body Paragraph 2:
Topic sentence stating the second point
Relevant examples and explanations
Linking sentence to transition to next point
Body Paragraph 3:
Topic sentence stating the final point
Relevant examples and explanations
Linking sentence to transition to conclusion
Template 2: Argument For and Against
For two-sided essay topics involving discussion of both pros and cons, you can structure the essay by dedicating one body paragraph to each view. This allows for a balanced consideration of multiple perspectives as required in many IELTS tasks.
Body Paragraph 1:
Topic sentence introducing the ‘for’ argument
Relevant examples and explanations supporting the view
Linking sentence to introduce contrasting view
Body Paragraph 2:
Topic sentence introducing the ‘against’ argument
Relevant examples and explanations against the view
Linking sentence to transition to recommendation
Body Paragraph 3:
Topic sentence giving your recommendation
Relevant examples and explanations
Linking sentence to transition to conclusion
Template 3: General Specific Structure
Another effective structure is to start generally before going into more specific examples and details. This engages the reader before drillling down into evidence. The general statements should be backed up in later paragraphs.
Body Paragraph 1:
General topic sentence about the issue
Brief overview without examples
Linking sentence to specific point
Body Paragraph 2:
Specific topic sentence about a key aspect
Relevant examples and explanations
Linking sentence to transition to second specific point
Body Paragraph 3:
Specific topic sentence about another aspect
Relevant examples and explanations
Linking sentence to transition to conclusion
Conclusion Paragraph
Your conclusion is important to wrap up the key discussion points and leave the examiner with a strong final impression. It should not introduce any new information and simply restate the main findings and considerations without copies. Some common conclusions are:
Summarise the overall discussion and opinions presented
Emphasise the most significant point overall
Recommend a course of action if appropriate
Reiterate the importance or implications of the topic
Writing Task 2 Questions
With practice using these templates for different essay types, you will get better at generating a well-structured response within the allotted 40 minutes. Some common IELTS Writing Task 2 question types are:
Discuss both views and give your own opinion
Discuss the causes and solutions of a problem
In your opinion, how can a situation be improved/resolved
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples
Ultimately, the templates are a guide but you need to adapt your language and examples to suit each specific topic. Regular essay practice is key to gaining strategy and fluency for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. With discipline and focus on structure using these proven templates, you can achieve a Band 7 or higher.