writing task 2 homework

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IELTS score between 1 and 9 for each part of the test – Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. You can score whole (e.g., 5.0, 6.0, 7.0) or half (e.g., 5.5, 6.5, 7.5) bands in each part. Universities often demand an IELTS score of 6 or 7. They may also demand a minimum IELTS score in each of the 4 sections.

IELTS scoring system and band scale

The IELTS scoring system is very unique composed of 9 bands, measured in consistent manner and is internationally acclaimed and understood. The IELTS score ranges from 1 to 9 for each part of the test. The individual result from these four parts will produce an overall band score ... more →

How long does it take to do the IELTS test?

IELTS has four parts – Listening (30 minutes), Reading (60 minutes), Writing (60 minutes) and Speaking (11–14 minutes). The total test time is 2 hours and 45 minutes. The Listening, Reading and Writing tests are done in one sitting.

Is IELTS valid for 3 years now?

The IELTS Test Report Form (TRF) is valid for two years. At present, IELTS score is valid for a three year period for Australian General Skilled Migration (GSM) applications.

Is there any pass or fail in the IELTS exam?

There is no pass or no fail in the IELTS exam. Generally, when you take any test or exam then there can be the possibility of getting passed or failed. But here in this case, you will not get failed but you may be disqualified to continue your higher education in choice of college or university.

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Ielts writing task 2 – homework.

Many teachers assign homework to students every day. Do you think that daily homework is necessary for students? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.

( 278 Words , 17 Sentences, 4 Paragraphs, Band 8)

Homework helps students to understand material more deeply. However, some people believe that homework does not bring any benefits. Personally, I think that this issue has some advantages and disadvantages. In this essay first I will focus on the reasons why I support this idea about daily homework and then I will move on to analyzing its disadvantages.

From the one side, daily homework brings many benefits. As I already mentioned, it helps students understand subjects more deeply. Also, young people learn how to arrange their time to have all things done on time. In addition to those practical benefits daily homework teaches students how to make their own research if something is not clear. Curiosity is one of the main reasons that lead a person to a success. Students learn to make their research, work with different kinds of informational resources such as an Internet, books, magazines, journals and newspapers. I think it is a great experience and it is very good for a long run.

From the other side, daily homework can bring many disadvantages. For instance, if a person has no interest in biology, but has a huge interest in music he has to spend his precious time doing his homework and reading uninteresting books instead of spending this time practicing new melodies. Another important aspect of this that a student can have no time for his physical activities. So, basically, doing daily homework will not keep him in a good shape.

To sum up, I think that an intermediate position can be taken. For example, a student will have to do his daily homework if he is going to specialize in this field in the future.

( NB: Follow the above writing structure for getting higher IELTS band score in the examination. This sample answer can be an example of good writing out of many possible approaches.)

Related IELTS Resources

Take a practice test to find out what is your current weakness in terms of IELTS scale and allow more time to improve your weak spots. The following IELTS resources will help you to develop your skills faster:

• IELTS Listening Test
• IELTS Reading Test
• IELTS Writing Task 1
• IELTS Writing Task 2
• IELTS Speaking Part 1, 2 & 3
• IELTS Listening Exercises
• IELTS Reading Exercises
• IELTS Cue Card Exercises
• How to Start IELTS Preparation
• Tips – On the Day before IELTS Exam

IELTS Writing Task 2 – History and literature

Ielts writing task 2 – important decision alone, recommended for you.

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Help everyone in the world that needs help

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Relationship between equality and personal achievement

IELTS Writing Task 2 – Gender and University

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Structures

The four most common IELTS writing Task 2 questions are: Opinion, Advantages and Disadvantages, Problem and Solution Discussion

IELTS Task 2 Essay Structures

Knowing how to structure your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay is an essential skill that can make the difference between getting and not getting the band score you deserve. With that in mind, we have outlined the most common IELTS Writing Task 2 structures below.

Nearly all of my Task 2 essays follow this basic structure: The sentences you put in each paragraph will depend on what type of question you get.

The five most common IELTS Writing Task 2 questions are:

• Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
• Advantages and Disadvantages
• Problem and Solution
• Discussion (Discuss both views)
• Two-part Question

Below I will outline examples and a structure approved by experienced IELTS teachers and examiners for each type of question. This will help you write a clear, coherent answer and hopefully boost your IELTS band score. I also include an example answer for each type of question so you can see the structure in a real essay.

Please note that these are general structures and may vary slightly depending on the question.

Please also note that no ‘one’ Task 2 essay structure will get you a high score. There are many types of structures that can get you a high score. These are just some I think are effective and easy to learn. 

Please visit the lessons below for more detailed guidance on each type of question. I have provided a link at the end of each section.

Opinion Questions (Agree or Disagree) 

Typical Question Words –

What is your opinion?

Do you agree or disagree?

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Direct question.

Example Question –

Some people believe that unpaid community service should be compulsory in high school programmes (for example, working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children).

Essay Structure 

Introduction 

1- Paraphrase Question

2- Give your opinion and outline the main ideas.

Main Body Paragraph 1 

1- Topic Sentence

2- Explain Topic Sentence

Main Body Paragraph 2

Conclusion 

1- Summary of main points and opinion

Student Sample Answer

It is argued that volunteering should be made part of the school curriculum. This essay agrees with that suggestion completely because it help pupils develop soft skills and helps them gain much-needed work experience.

Education should not be limited to strictly academic pursuits, and those in education should also develop life skills, such as teamwork, empathy and self-discipline, and one of the best ways to hone these aptitudes is through community service. Serving those less fortunate than ourselves teaches us many lessons, including how to work with people from other backgrounds and the value of hard work, thus enabling us to hone these skills before becoming an adult. For example, many young people from wealthier countries take a gap year and help those less fortunate than themselves to increase their gratitude for what they have and improve their work ethic.

Many colleges and companies are also increasingly looking for this type of experience. Most school leavers have the same grades, and charitable work can help set you apart from other students when making college applications. For example, Cambridge and Oxford receive thousands of applications from straight-A students yearly and can only accept a small percentage of applicants. What you have done outside the classroom often differentiates you from everyone else and gets you that coveted spot.

In conclusion, teenagers should be made to partake in unpaid work as part of their schooling because it will help them learn things they wouldn’t ordinarily learn from their teachers, and it will also boost their chances of getting into third-level education.

For more detail on how to answer agree or disagree questions, please visit our opinion essay lesson . 

Need help writing essays like this? Check out our ESSAY CORRECTION SERVICE .

Advantages and Disadvantages Questions

Typical Question Words 

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Example Question

Technology is being used more and more in education.

Essay Structure

2- Outline Main Points

Main Body Paragraph 1

1- State Two Advantages

2- Expand/Explain First Advantage

3- Expand/Explain Second Advantage

1- State Two Disadvantages

2- Expand/Explain First Disadvantage

3- Expand/Explain Second Disadvantage

1- Summary of Main Points

Student Sample Answer 

It is argued that technology plays an ever-increasing role in schools and universities. Increased access to information and student freedom are the main advantages, whereas dependency on technology and decreasing levels of face-to-face contact are the main disadvantages.

Access to more information and student autonomy are the principal advantages of increasing the use of electronic devices in education. With the internet, students can access all the information available about any topic, regardless of what books and other resources are available in the school. Furthermore, students can focus on whatever topic or subject they want and study it in depth. A prime example of this is the number of online university courses available to students, covering a myriad of subjects that, up until recently, were unavailable to most learners. This has resulted in more people studying third-level degrees than ever before at a pace and schedule that suits them.

The main disadvantages associated with the increasing use of technology in education are the dependency on this technology and the decrease in face-to-face interaction between students. With many students now using the internet as their primary source of information, they often struggle to use other academic resources to find what they’re looking for. As well as this, students spend more time looking at computer screens by themselves than interacting with each other, which is thought to lead to lower levels of emotional intelligence. For instance, the recent explosion in smartphone use has been at the expense of genuine human interaction. This results in soft skills, such as verbal communication and empathy, being affected.

In conclusion, the benefits technology brings to education, such as unrestricted access to information and student autonomy, must be weighed against the drawbacks, such as dependency on this technology and the negative effects on human interaction.

For more detail on how to answer advantage and disadvantage questions, please visit our  advantage and disadvantage lesson . 

Discuss Both Views Question (Discussion Essay)  

Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.

Example Question 

Technology is being used more and more in education. Some people say that this is a positive trend, while others argue that it is leading to negative consequences.

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

1- Paraphrase Question and/or state both viewpoints.

2- Thesis Statement

3- Outline Sentence

1- State first viewpoint

2- Discuss first viewpoint

3- Reason why you agree or disagree with viewpoint

4- Example to support your view

1- State second viewpoint

2- Discuss second viewpoint

Sentence 1- Summary

Sentence 2- State which one is better or more important

There is an ever-increasing use of technology, such as tablets and laptops, in the classroom. It is often argued that this is a positive development, whilst others disagree and think it will lead to adverse ramifications. This essay agrees that an increase in technology is beneficial to students and teachers.

The Internet has provided students with access to more information than ever before. This has allowed learners to research and learn about any subject at the touch of a button. It is therefore agreed that technology is a very worthwhile tool for education. Wikipedia is a prime example, where students can type in any keyword and gain access to in-depth knowledge quickly and easily.

However, many disagree and feel that technology deprives people of real human interaction. Human interaction teaches people valuable skills such as discourse, debate and empathy. Without these soft skills, many people find it difficult to become successful in work and their personal lives. Despite this, human interaction is still possible through the internet, and this essay disagrees that technology should be dismissed for this reason. For instance, Skype and Facebook allow people to interact in ways that were never before possible.

While the benefits of technology, particularly the internet, allow students to tap into limitless sources of information, some still feel that people should be wary of this new phenomenon and not allow it to curb face-to-face interaction. However, as long as we carefully consider the importance of human interaction in education, the educational benefits are clearly positive.

For more detail on how to answer discussion questions please visit our  discussion essay lesson . 

Problem and Solution Questions

Problem and solution.

Cause and solution.

Students are becoming more and more reliant on technology.

What are some of the problems associated with reliance on computers, and what are some of the possible solutions?

2- Outline Sentence

1- State Problems

2- Explain First Problem

3- Explain Second Problem

4- Example of Second Problem

1- State Solutions

2- Explain First Solution

3- Explain Second Solution

4- Example of Second Solution

Learners are becoming increasingly dependent on technology, such as the Internet and mobile devices. This essay believes the main problems associated with dependence on computers are the lack of original thought and copying original work from others and suggests critical thinking classes and writing analysis software as the most viable solutions.

The principal problems with over-reliance on technology are people being unable to think for themselves and plagiarism. With access to so much information, students often rely on other people’s opinions instead of forming their own. As well as this, they often use search engines to answer a question and copy the text from a website rather than thinking about the question. This practice is prohibited in schools and universities and stunts students’ intellectual development because they will never truly think for themselves, which is what university is supposed to be for. For example, many teachers complain that students copy web pages straight from Wikipedia word for word rather than giving a reasoned answer to their questions.

Solutions to these worrying problems are special classes to focus on critical thinking and teachers using anti-plagiarism software to detect copying. If teachers create situations where students have to infer meaning and express opinions based on a small amount of information, this will ensure that students have an opportunity to develop these skills. Also, if students know that their assignments are being checked for plagiarism, this will be enough to deter them from doing so. For instance, many universities already use this kind of software to scan coursework for plagiarism, and it could be extended to include all homework by learners in both secondary and tertiary education.

In conclusion, the main problems with the overuse of technology in education are the lack of original thought and plagiarism. These can be solved through special classes that teach students analytical skills and plagiarism detection software.

For more detail on how to answer problem and solution questions please visit our  problem and solution lesson . 

Two-Part Questions

There will normally be a statement, and they will then ask you to answer separate questions.

As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual wellbeing.

What factor contributes to job satisfaction?

How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?

2- Outline Sentence (mention both questions)

1- Answer first question directly

2- Explain why

3- Further explain

1- Answer second question directly

As most adults spend most of their time at work, being content with your career is a crucial part of a person’s health and happiness. This essay will first suggest fair pay as a key element leading to job satisfaction, and it will then state that it is not very likely that everyone can be happy with their job.

The most important thing that satisfies someone at work is being compensated fairly. If those more senior than you respect you as a person and the job you are doing, then you feel like you are valued. A fair salary and benefits are important marks of respect, and if you feel you are being underpaid, you will either resent your bosses or look for another job. These two factors came top of a recent job satisfaction survey conducted by Monster.com, which found that 72% of people were pleased with their current role if their superiors regularly told them they were appreciated.

With regard to the question of happiness for all workers, I think this is and always will be highly unlikely. The vast majority of people fail to reach their goals and end up working in a post they don’t really care about in return for a salary. This money is just enough to pay their living expenses which often means they are trapped in a cycle of disenchantment. For example, The Times recently reported that 89% of office workers would leave their jobs if they did not need the money.

In conclusion, being satisfied with your trade or profession is an important part of one’s well-being, and respect from one’s colleagues and fair pay can improve your level of happiness; however, job satisfaction for all workers is an unrealistic prospect.

Can I get a band 8 or 9 following these structures? 

Nobody can give you a Task 2 IELTS structure that guarantees high scores. Your score is dependent on how good your grammar and vocabulary are and how well you answer the question. A good structure will help you answer the question to some extent and boost your score for coherence and cohesion, but you must use relevant ideas and use these ideas well to answer the question.

You can see how my student scored a Band 8.5 in IELTS Writing here:

Next Steps 

We hope you found those IELTS Writing Task 2 structures useful. Looking for some more sample questions? Here are over 100 sample questions from past exam papers.

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I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

To get high marks in IELTS Writing Task 2, two things are essential. You need to:

• Understand what the examiner is looking for.
• Learn the right techniques to write an effective essay.

On this page, we’ll be looking at the general format of Task 2 questions and all the basic information that it’s vital for you to know.

Once you have a good understanding of Task 2, I’ll then show you step-by-step how to produce high scoring essays. You’ll find all these important lessons by following the links to the related pages. 

This page includes:

• Task 2 question format
• Example question
• The 5 different types of questions
• Key information
• 5 step essay writing strategy
• How to identify question types

Want  to watch and listen to this lesson?

Click on this video.

The format of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions is always the same:

• You will be given a statement on a topic of general interest.
• The statement will be a specific point of view, problem or argument related to the topic.
• You will be asked to respond to that statement.

Here is a typical Task 2 question:

Nowadays, more people are choosing to socialise online rather than face to face.

Is this a positive or negative development? 

The 5 Question Types

There are 5 different types of  IELTS Writing  Task 2   essays that you could be asked to write:

• Opinion Essays – Agree or Disagree

Discussion Essays

• Problem Solution Essays + Causes & Solutions

Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

Double question essays.

T he sample question above is an example of an  ‘ advantages & disadvantages’ essay. I’ll show you how to decide what type of question you’ve been given after I’ve covered two other important things.

We’ll begin with some key information that you need to know in order to achieve success in IELTS Writing Task 2.

Key Information

# 1   You are required to write 250 words or more.

If you write less than 250 words, you are unlikely to get more than a Band 5 for ’task achievement’ as you won’t have fulfilled the marking criteria.

# 2   You should use a formal style of writing.

# 3   You have around 40 minutes to plan and write your essay.

# 4   Task 2 contributes twice as many marks to your overall score as Task 1.

# 5   It is recommended to do Task 2 first.

Most people do Task 1 first and overrun on the 20 minutes it should take them. This doesn’t leave them enough time to do Task 2 properly. Since Task 2 is worth double the marks, they are, in effect, throwing away valuable marks.

How To Write An Effective IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay

It is common to feel overwhelmed when you read an IELTS Writing Task 2 question and not know how to even begin to approach it. Hence, it’s essential to have an effective strategy to tackle any question you might get.

Fortunately, because the question format is the same for all questions, you can use the same basic technique to write any Task 2 essay.

Here is my recommended 5 step approach.

Step-By-Step Strategy

This 5 step strategy can be used for any question.

1)  Analyse the question 

2)  Plan your answer

3)  Write the introduction

4)  Write 2 main body paragraphs

5)  Write the conclusion

This will give you a well-organised essay of 4 paragraphs.

I show you how to use this strategy on the individual question type pages.

First thought, you need to be able to identify the different types of questions. This is important because in order to write a good essay, you need to understand exactly what the question asks you to do.

Once you fully understand the question:

• You will know how to structure your essay.
• You will know what language to use.
• Both the planning & writing stages will be quicker & easier.
• You will give the examiner exactly what they want.

How to identify the question type

Each of the 5 different types of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions requires a different structure to create a high scoring essay. You will also need to use slightly different language.

Here are the 5 different types of essays again. 

• Problem Solution Essays + Causes & Solutions

Follow the links for step-by-step instuctions for writing each type.

Now for some examples to illustrate the difference between them. The language used in the questions will help you to recognise what type of question it is.

Opinion Essays

This type of question clearly asks for your opinion on the topic, although the language could vary as can be seen in the two examples.

You are required to state whether you agree or disagree with the statement and why.

Some people think that more money should be spent on protecting endangered species while others think it is a waste of valuable money. 

What is your opinion?

Advances in technology and automation have reduced the need for manual labour.   Therefore, working hours should be reduced.  

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It’s easy to recognise discussion essay questions in IELTS Writing Task 2 because the statement will include two opposing views and the question after it will ask you to ‘discuss’ them and, usually, to give your own opinion as well.

Some people believe that school children should not be given homework by their teachers, whereas others argue that homework plays an important role in the education of children.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that exercise is the key to health while others feel that having a balanced diet is more important.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Problem Essays – Causes & Solutions

This type of question starts with a statement stating the problem, then asks you to discuss the causes and the solutions or, sometimes, the causes or the solutions.

Due to poorer countries experiencing a ‘brain drain’ , they are seeing many professionals, such as doctors and teachers, leaving to work in more developed countries.

What problems does this cause? What solutions can be suggested to deal with this situation?

Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment.

Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

Different language may be used in individual questions, as can be seen in these two examples. In Example 2, ‘why’ is clearly referring to the ‘cause’ of the problem, and ‘what’ refers to the ‘solution’.

This type of question can be worded in several different ways. It’s common for synonyms of ‘advantages’ and ‘disadvantages’, such as ‘benefits’ and ‘drawbacks’, to be used. This can be seen in the second example.

It is becoming increasingly popular to have a year off between finishing school and going to university.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

A lot of places in the world rely on tourism as a main source of income. Unfortunately, tourism can also be a source of problems if it is not managed correctly.

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of tourism in the modern world. Do you think that the benefits of tourism outweigh its drawbacks?

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

Today, more people are travelling to foreign countries than ever before.

Why is this the case?   What are the benefits of travelling for the traveller?

Most people agree that money cannot buy happiness.

Why is happiness difficult to define?  How can people achieve happiness?

It’s vital that you properly answer both questions.

For all 5 questions types, it’s essential that you fulfil the task by fully answering the question. Failure to do so will severely affect your score no matter how good your essay is.

So, that’s a general overview of IELTS Writing Task 2. You’re now ready to learn the techniques needed to plan and write a great essay.

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Related pages.

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

IELTS Writing Tips  – Top 10 tips to bring you success in your writing test. Essential information you need to know to achieve a high score.

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

The 5 Types of Task 2 Essay   – How to recognise the 5 different types of Task 2 essays. 15 sample questions to study and a simple planning structure for each essay type.

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 in Task 2. See examples of good and poor answers & learn some common mistakes to avoid.

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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IELTS discussion essay: model answer and analysis

Updated : February 2024

Below is an IELTS question for writing task 2 and my model answer. It is on the topic of Education. After analysing the question, I can see that it’s about whether homework is a good idea or not in helping kids in their educational development . It asks me to discuss both views and also asks for my opinion .

In this case, you must state your opinion in the introduction, the body and conclusion.

In this essay I will need to do 3 things:

• Write about why some people think school children should not be given homework by their teachers.
• Write about why other people think homework plays an important role in the education of children.
• Give my opinion on the issue and explain.

Task Question

Some people believe that school children should not be given homework by their teachers, whereas others argue that homework plays an important role in the education of children. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Model Answer

Some people think it is not a good idea for teachers to assign home study tasks to school children, while others say it is an essential part of learning. I believe pupils need homework to achieve better exam results as it gives them a chance of entering higher education.

On the one hand, some believe that homework is of no benefit and becomes a burden to school children. This is because pupils spend their whole day studying, taking part in after school clubs and feel exhausted after returning home. For instance, in Japan, the majority of minors are under pressure to complete vast amounts of homework along with extracurricular activities. If they fail to finish their assignments they may not do well in exams, meaning they would be unable to get into a good high school. I think home assignments are beneficial but children should not be put under this kind of pressure.

On the other hand, it is widely believed that homework plays a vital role in the development of knowledge for students and I agree with this. In other words, home study tasks help pupils understand school subjects better which allows them to attain higher grades. For example, according to extensive research, children aged between 10 and 16 who are given a large amount of mathematics homework do far better in tests than those who are not given any home assignments. I believe that home study tasks improve a child’s chances of entering tertiary education which leads to a rewarding career.

To conclude, although views differ concerning children being assigned homework, I would argue that home assignments are necessary to help pupils get high grades, enabling them to secure a place at university and improve their career chances.

Click this blue button to see an analysis of the model answer.

Word count is 290 words. I advise keeping it under 300 words as you may not have the time to write a long essay in the exam and it is not necessary to write a very long essay.

The structure is:

• Introduction: Paraphrased task question with a thesis statement (opinion)
• Main body 1:  Discussed first view, explained and gave an example with my opinion.
• Main body 2:  Discussed second view, agreed,  explained and gave an example.
• Conclusion:  Referred to the differing views, opinion rephrased

Make sure to check the task question again before writing your essay. you could lose a band score if it goes off-topic.

Planning time is crucial here, allow 10 minutes to plan an essay and make sure you have some good supporting points to back up your topic sentences.

With a discussion essay, you have to state others views and give supporting sentences with detail and specific examples. Discussion essays often ask your opinion. Click here to see this lesson  about stating an opinion.

When we state others views, especially in IELTS Discussion essays, there is specific language that should be used. For more detail on this, click here to see this lesson.

There is a lot of confusion about whether to use personal pronouns in IELTS essays (I, me, my, our, etc..) but if the question asks to ‘what extent do you agree?’  or ‘give your own opinion’ then you need to write personal pronouns… click here to see a lesson on this .

Note on paraphrasing: I have paraphrased the word ‘ homework’ in this essay with the phrases ‘ home study tasks ‘ and ‘ home assignments’ . Sometimes there is no way to avoid repetition but if you have a good understanding of synonyms and referencing you can avoid too much repetition. There are often words that are hard to paraphrase such as ‘people’ or ‘children’.

Not every word from the task question needs paraphrasing and you can repeat words as long as you can demonstrate a wide range of vocabulary. Be very careful not to over paraphrase.

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How to write IELTS writing task 2

Home  »  IELTS academic task 2 » How to write IELTS writing task 2

The key to writing a good  IELTS essay  for task 2 is to use a process or system. For a writing task 2 IELTS academic essay that will bring you success in the  IELTS exam , you need to think, not just about the result, but consider the process too. An essay is the product of a process and if you leave out just one step in the process the result may be less than ideal.

Writing a good  IELTS Writing Task 2  starts with understanding the steps in the process and what the outcomes should be. Remember, you are recommended to spend 40 minutes on this task and you should write at least 250 words.

In this article, you’ll learn the following.

Why using a system or process is essential to the success of your writing task

A recommended process with suggestions on how you should handle each step in the process

How an explanation of what can go wrong and what mistakes you’re likely to make if you skip that step in the process

There is no magic formula to writing an excellent  IELTS essay  but the secret is to have a system and to adapt that system to one that gives you the best results.

Let’s look at the IELTS essentials for task 2

Step 1 – read the question and understand what the examiner is asking.

Make sure that you understand what question is being asked. One of the worst mistakes you can make is to go off on a tangent and fail to answer the question. IELTS questions are precisely worded and they require a specific answer. Time spent reading the question and understanding the requirements is time well spent. It is the surest way to ensure that you answer the question well.

IELTS is very specific and it is not okay to write about the general topic. Instead, the answer must be very specific and pointed.

Common errors

You completely misunderstand the question

The question looks like one that you have written in the past. You rewrite the same answer only to find that the question was not the same.

Your essay is too general and doesn’t answer the question that was asked. For example, the question asks whether you agree or disagree but you don’t give a clear answer.

Step 2 – think about what you’re going to write for task 2

This is the stage at which you plan the essay, but you can’t just plan. You must think. Don’t just react with a ready-made essay which may or may not answer the question asked. You need to carefully read the question and decide how you can answer it using your language skills, your experience, and your knowledge.

Of course, the essay that you have previously written may offer you some insights, vocabulary and even ideas, but make sure that what you use applies without doubt to the question which has been asked in the exam. It is as important that you consider parts of previous essays to include in the answer as it is to know what parts to exclude.

You set off to write the exam without putting in enough thought and part way through you realize that you haven’t answered the question, or the essay is incoherent. Now it is too late to start again.

You fail to answer the question asked.

Writing the essay

Every essay should have three parts, so it is useful to consider each part of the essay as a step in the process of essay writing.

Step 3 – writing the introduction

The introduction is an important step in the writing process. It sets the tone and gives the examiner the first impression of your skills and abilities, so if you get the introduction wrong you could start off on the wrong foot.

In IELTS writing task 2, the introduction should link your answer to the question. You should, therefore, write the introduction considering both the question at hand and the body of the essay that you plan to write.

For a top score, you need to ‘set out a position’ – in other words, if you are asked whether you agree or disagree with a statement, you should make it clear in the introduction which one you are going to be doing in the essay. This is because the task achievement score depends on you setting out a position and maintaining this throughout the essay. It shouldn’t be a surprise to the examiner at the end of the essay to find out whether you agree or disagree!

On the other hand, most task 2 questions do not require you to give an opinion. If you are required to discuss both sides or talk about the advantages and disadvantages of something, make it clear in the introduction that this is what you will be doing.

Having favourite phrases to write most essays is a huge help here. Practically any essay you can think of can start with ‘many people believe that…’ because as we know, ‘many’ does not mean ‘most’. ‘Some people think that’ or ‘some people believe that’ followed up by ‘while others are of the opinion that…’ is also useful when summarising the question and introducing new ideas.

You don’t link the question properly and identify its contents

Your position in answering the question is unclear.

Step 4 – developing the essay ideas, your approach, and your explanations

In approaching the main body of the essay, you must ensure that answer that you give is not only clear, and accurately answers the question, it must also be coherent and well-structured. Divide your essay up into paragraphs that explain just one idea per paragraph. Ensure that you explain how your ideas relate to the question.

Common errors found in task 2

Your ideas don’t adequately answer the question

You have not supported your ideas with examples or reasons

You have given plenty of detail but not make it clear how the details relate to the question.

Step 5 – conclude your essay with a summary that completes the circle

Before you write your conclusion, you need to read through your essay and make sure that it is complete and coherent. Your conclusion should round off your essay and complete it. It should summarise the main points in the body and reflect the connection between the introduction and the question.

A good conclusion summarises the contents of the essay in as few words as possible.

You fail to write a conclusion at all. An essay without a conclusion is, in fact, not an essay

The conclusion doesn’t summarise the essay or it fails to answer the question.

The conclusion recaps the question but doesn’t mention the main points (topic sentences) in the body of the essay.

Step 6 – re-read your essay

Unlike research papers or essays written as homework, you only get one chance at writing the exam essay. It’s a good idea to read your essay through at various intervals during the exam. Leaving this to the end may be too late. You should also read it once more when you get to the end to ensure that it makes sense and is a coherent whole. Your essay needs to be clear – and give your opinion only when toy are asked for it.

Stick to a process and you’ll avoid two serious problems

 What are the problems?

Incoherence – disjointed essays that cause confusion

You have a much better chance of ensuring that your essay is coherent if you use a set method to write it,. This is because with a method you would have gone through all the steps necessary to ensure coherence, moving from step 1 to step 2 to step 3 and so on. This means that you have given each part of the essay an equal level of importance. If you start with the end in mind without considering each step along the way, you may miss out on an essential stage of the process and end up with an essay which lacks coherence.

Answering the question with the wrong essay

Many students write essays in preparation for the exam. The problem with this is that, in your eagerness to answer with a carefully prepared essay, you may not answer the test question as it has been asked. This is especially true for ‘what do you think’ essays.

It may also happen that the essay question that you are faced with may not fit any of the pre-planned essays that you had in mind for your answer and you panic. In this case it is useful to have a reliable process to help you to write that winning essay. If you have a process you should not be worried and can enter the exam room with confidence, knowing that you have a system that will allow you to answer almost any question that’s thrown at you. When you have learnt the process of answering IELTS exams it all gets a lot easier.

Giving a list of reasons rather than a clear argument and supporting arguments for each paragraph.

 This can be challenging for a lot of students. Many IELTS students think that the more ideas mentioned the better in writing task 2 questions, but that isn’t usually true. When talking about the advantages and disadvantages of solar power, for example, many students would be tempted to mention as many ideas as possible in the ‘advantages’ paragraph in order to maximise their score – reliance on sunshine, cost, challenges of setting it up and repairs in remote regions of the world… but you will score more by focusing on one strong argument in your answer and include examples from your own experience and more information.

Now for some practice

Take an essay that you have previously written and rewrite it. This is not an exercise in correcting errors in the prior essay, but rather an opportunity to take note of the process of writing an essay. The reason we use an old essay is that the ideas and vocabulary already exist. So, you can pay attention to the process, or the how of writing rather than the what.

Don’t worry too much about how long its takes, but pay attention to each phrase and ask yourself what you are trying to do all along the way

Take a look at some  sample task 2 essays to help you prepare. We also have an IELTS  writing evaluation service  that will help you improve your band score!

Here’s another example.

Where it says ‘do you agree or disagree’, that means you MUST make it clear what you think. Although it’s fine to say there are arguments for both sides it’s easier to come down firmly on one side or the other. Similarly, ‘is this a positive or negative development’ questions are easier to answer by choosing one or the other UNLESS the IELTS question specifically says ‘discuss both views and give your own opinion’. Here is an example:

‘To what extent do you agree or disagree’ questions or ‘discuss both views and give your opinions’ are better for looking at both sides. For an agree or disagree question, it’s fine to focus on just one.

TOP TIP – write a concession!

A concession phrase is a high-level skill that will boost your task achievement score if done correctly. The idea is to use an OPPOSITE argument to show that you understand another perspective. For example, if you were writing two body paragraphs agreeing with the statement in the question above, you could also write:

Although some people may be concerned about the cost of replacing plastic goods with glass, it could be argued that our first responsibility is to the environment.

You’ve shown you understand another view (it’s expensive to change current production methods) but made a new point (the environment is more important).

However, if you’re going to do this, remember that a concession statement can ONLY be half a sentence. Any more and you’ve gone off topic and your paragraph will not match your topic sentence. Look for examples of strong concession statements in example essays and only attempt it if you’re feeling very confident.

Keep practising!!

It is important to practice as many questions as you can, and many people say that they improved their score by focusing on planning as much as writing full writing task 2 questions. Keep these tips and ideas in front of you to check your planning and writing strategies.

It’s also useful to keep a list of relevant examples from your own life to mention in the test. These can include large companies you know about, local businesses you are aware of, and even government policies for your region (and whether they are a positive or negative development and whether you agree or disagree with them!)

Audio tutorial

We also have audio tutorials available.

You can download or listen to the audio version here:

| Direct Download Here  |  Stitcher  |  iTunes  |  Spotify  |  Transcript

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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IELTS Writing Task 2: Giving Homework Daily to School Children Works Well

Updated On Dec 28, 2023

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Numerous test-takers have difficulty with the essay writing component of the IELTS Writing module. Therefore, it is essential to develop your essay writing skills effectively before taking the IELTS.

The  IELTS Writing Task 2  is a crucial part of both the General Training and Academic versions of the IELTS exam. It assesses your ability to write a well-structured and cohesive essay in response to a given topic.

In this task, you will be presented with an Opinion Essay  prompt, where you are presented with a statement or opinion, and you are asked to either agree or disagree with it.

To effectively prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2, it is highly recommended to practice with a variety of sample essays. IELTSMaterial.com offers a comprehensive collection of  IELTS writing task 2 practice tests , that can help you hone your essay writing skills and achieve a high score in the exam.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Homework is a part of school life. Many people feel that giving homework daily to school children works well for them, while some feel it is an unnecessary burden on them. What do you think about it?

Give reasons for your answer and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.

You should write at least 250 words.

Structure Breakdown

Band 7 Sample Answer for IELTS Writing Task 2 Question: Giving Homework Daily to School Children Works Well

Introduction

Homework is a crucial part of school, with different views on its benefits and drawbacks. Some say daily homework is good, while others think it’s too much for students. In this essay, I’ll discuss both sides. Personally, I believe it’s vital to find a balance—recognizing the good aspects of homework without harming students’ well-being.

Body Paragraph 1

One of the primary arguments supporting daily homework is its role in reinforcing classroom learning. Homework serves as a valuable tool to enable students to practice and apply the concepts taught in class. Supporters say doing homework not only improves understanding but also teaches responsibility and discipline. For instance, when students work on math problems or essays at home, they learn to solve problems independently and motivate themselves.

Body Paragraph 2

Critics say too much homework can cause stress and harm students’ well-being. The pressure to finish assignments can lead to burnout, making learning less effective. Additionally, not all students have the same resources and support at home, creating inequalities in their ability to complete homework. Therefore, it’s important to make sure homework is reasonable in terms of quantity and complexity, so it doesn’t unnecessarily strain students.

In conclusion, the homework debate highlights the importance of finding a balance. While homework can reinforce learning and build essential skills, it shouldn’t overwhelm students. Hence, achieving balance will ensure a positive educational experience, where homework benefits are gained without compromising student well-being. Overall, I believe that homework should serve a purpose, encouraging a healthy balance between work and life that fosters success beyond the classroom. (262 words)

Band 7 Vocabulary

• Meaning: Extremely important or necessary.
• Example: Time management is crucial for success in any project.
• Meaning: Disadvantages or negative aspects.
• Example: The new policy has benefits but also has some drawbacks that need to be considered.
• Meaning: Essential; of great importance.
• Example: Communication is vital in building strong relationships.

Reinforcing:

• Meaning: Strengthening or supporting.
• Example: Positive feedback from colleagues can be reinforcing for one’s self-esteem.

Discipline:

• Meaning: Self-control and orderly behavior.
• Example: Athletes need discipline to maintain a rigorous training schedule.
• Meaning: Physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.
• Example: The demanding job led to burnout, and the employee needed a break.

Inequalities:

• Meaning: Differences or disparities.
• Example: Gender inequalities persist in certain workplaces despite efforts for equality.

Reasonable:

• Meaning: Fair and sensible; not excessive.
• Example: It’s important to have a reasonable budget to manage expenses effectively.

Compromising:

• Meaning: Damaging or jeopardizing.
• Example: Ignoring safety guidelines is compromising the well-being of the workers.
• Meaning: Promotes or encourages the development of.
• Example: A supportive environment fosters creativity among team members.

Master IELTS Writing with Proven Strategies & Ace Task 2 with Our Expert-designed Guide Now!

Band 8 Sample Answer for IELTS Writing Task 2 Question: Giving Homework Daily to School Children Works Well

Introduction:

Homework, a constant companion from childhood, plays a vital role in a student’s growth. While some emphasize its positive impact on academic development, others express worries about potential drawbacks. This essay delves into both viewpoints, ultimately supporting the idea of a well-balanced and coordinated approach to homework.

Body Paragraph 1:

On the one hand, it is claimed that homework reinforces concepts learned in school and provides opportunities for independent practice. By applying knowledge at home, students gain a deeper understanding of subjects. Homework also keeps parents informed about children’s learning and helps teachers evaluate progress. Moreover, it is argued that homework teaches crucial life skills like time management, self-motivation and responsibility. When students diligently complete assignments, they learn to manage their workload, meet deadlines and take ownership of learning.

Body Paragraph 2:

However, some people believe that excessive homework can negatively impact children’s wellbeing. Too much homework leaves little free time for play, family time or extracurricular activities important for development. It can also induce unhealthy stress and anxiety. While homework certainly reinforces learning, I believe balance is imperative. Moderate, well-designed daily homework can enhance learning without overwhelming students. Educators must tailor homework policies to benefit students holistically, not just academically. With balance, homework’s advantages can be harnessed without sacrificing personal growth.

Conclusion:

In my opinion, homework, when carefully planned and managed, allows students to further their knowledge independently while developing important life skills. However, excessive amounts of homework undermine students’ wellbeing. Hence, balance is key so homework enriches learning without overwhelming children. (254 words)

Band 8 Vocabulary

Reinforces:

• Meaning: Strengthens or supports.
• Example: Regular exercise reinforces physical health.
• Meaning: Extending far down or inwards.
• Example: Engaging in discussions with peers provides a deeper understanding of topics.
• Meaning: Assess or judge the quality or significance.
• Example: Employers evaluate job applicants based on their skills and qualifications.
• Example: Communication is crucial for building strong relationships.

Diligently (adverb):

• Meaning: Carefully and thoroughly.
• Example: Employees who work diligently often excel in their roles.
• Meaning: More than is necessary or normal.
• Example: Consuming excessive sugar can negatively impact health.
• Meaning: Considering a person or thing as a whole.
• Example: Holistic approaches to healthcare consider physical and mental well-being.

Imperative:

• Meaning: Crucial; of vital importance.
• Example: Time management is imperative for meeting deadlines.
• Meaning: Utilized or controlled.
• Example: Renewable energy sources can be harnessed to power homes.
• Meaning: Weaken or compromise.
• Example: Lack of trust can undermine the effectiveness of a team.

Practice & Prepare with IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Questions and Answers

Band 9 Sample Answer for IELTS Writing Task 2 Question: Giving Homework Daily to School Children Works Well

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Homework is a key part of a student’s education, with differing views on its value. Some students see it as helpful, promoting good study habits, while others think it’s not very useful. In this essay, I’ll support the positive aspects of homework, recognizing its drawbacks but highlighting its varied impact on students and society.

One primary argument in favor of homework is its role in cultivating regular study habits and aiding in knowledge retention. Daily assignments encourage students to revisit and apply class lessons, contributing to a deeper understanding of the material. Moreover, completing homework routinely correlates with improved exam performance, showcasing its positive impact on academic outcomes. For instance, consistent engagement with assignments facilitates an easier recall of information, reducing anxiety during exams.

However, some argue that homework can negatively impact children, limiting their free time and possibly creating a negative attitude toward learning. There’s also concern that students may copy peers instead of truly understanding the material, which could hinder real comprehension. Despite these worries, the benefits of homework are seen as more significant. Apart from academic improvements, homework provides a positive way for students to use their free time and teaches them responsibility.

In conclusion, I believe that despite concerns about homework, its benefits are significant for individuals and society. It improves academic performance and teaches essential life skills, fostering overall development and future success. While acknowledging the drawbacks of too much homework, a balanced approach ensures its positive impact. Homework becomes a valuable tool when used thoughtfully, enhancing the educational experience. (263 words)

Band 9 Vocabulary

Cultivating:

• Meaning: Promoting the growth or development of something.
• Example: Reading regularly helps in cultivating a love for literature.
• Meaning: The act of remembering or retaining information.
• Example: Regular revision aids in the retention of knowledge.

Correlates:

• Meaning: To have a mutual relationship or connection.
• Example: Exercise often correlates with improved physical health.

Showcasing:

• Meaning: Displaying or presenting something prominently.
• Example: The exhibition is showcasing various works of art.

Engagement:

• Meaning: Active participation or involvement.
• Example: The students’ engagement in class discussions was evident.
• Meaning: To remember or bring back to mind.
• Example: Mnemonic devices can help in the recall of information.
• Meaning: To create difficulties or obstacles.
• Example: Lack of preparation can hinder success in exams.

Significant:

• Meaning: Important, noteworthy, or having meaning.
• Example: The research findings were significant for medical advancements.
• Meaning: Promoting the development or growth of something.
• Example: A supportive environment fosters creativity among students.

Judiciously:

• Meaning: Using good judgment or careful consideration.
• Example: It’s essential to allocate resources judiciously for optimal results.

Connectors Used in the Sample Answers of Giving Homework Daily to School Children Works Well 

Connectors , also known as connectives or transition words, are words or phrases that link ideas or parts of a sentence or paragraph together. Here are some of the connectors used in the above sample answers:

• In my opinion
• in this essay
• for instance
• additionally
• In conclusion

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Ielts writing tips for task 2 simply and completing the test quickly.

Task 2 accounts for 60% of the total score in the IELTS Writing test. Therefore, Task 2 is always more challenging to score well compared to Task 1. Additionally, IELTS Writing Task 2 requires candidates to have a deep and broad knowledge base. So, let's refer to the following article shared by a Preppies member on IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 quickly and effectively to improve your writing skills!  

1. IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 - Read Carefully & Understand the Prompt

• 2. IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 - Brainstorm Before Writing 

3. IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 - Each Paragraph Should Focus on One Main Point 

4. ielts writing tips for task 2 - provide relevant and highly authentic reasoning.

The first thing you should do when writing Task 2 is to read the prompt carefully and understand its requirements. Did you know that you shouldn't underestimate the prompt and think that you just need to paraphrase it to write the introduction? The prompt in Writing Task 2 actually tells you what the examiner expects you to write. It also indicates the direction you should take. This is the part that informs you about what to include in your thesis statement and topic sentence.

➡ IELTS Writing Task 2 Prompt:  “Some people think spoken communication is more powerful than written communication. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

➡ In this prompt, the examiner presents two aspects:  “spoken communication” and  “written communication” . They want you to argue which one is more important. And of course, you can only choose one side based on your personal opinion. So, if your approach to Writing Task 2 here is  to agree with the given opinion, you will think that "spoken communication" is more important, and vice versa . Don't be wishy-washy in your essay, as it will weaken your argument and reduce focus.

2. IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 - Brainstorm Before Writing  

In the past, when writing persuasive essays in high school, teachers always required us to outline our essays before writing them. The purpose of this was to identify the ideas we needed to include and arrange them logically within the essay. The same applies to writing argumentative essays in English. Therefore, brainstorming before writing is an effective approach to Writing Task 2!

➡ The IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 here is to spend  at least 2-3 minutes on brainstorming. This is even applicable during the actual exam because it is extremely helpful. When you have organized your ideas beforehand, you will be able to write higher-quality topic sentences. The writing time is reduced as you don't need to think while writing. Once you have control over your writing speed, you can calculate the time to go back to the essay and proofread it.

For more information, refer to the following article:

• The ultimate guide to mastering the detailed approach to writing IELTS Writing Task 2

To ensure clarity of your essay and to be highly persuasive, show the examiner the "valid" reasons you present to support your viewpoint as correct. This is one of the highly effective approaches to Writing Task 2. Consider the following example to practice writing an effective IELTS Writing Task 2:

➡ Prompt:  Nowadays it is not only large companies that can make films. Digital technology enables anyone to produce films. Do you think it is a positive or negative development?

The two ideas for the body paragraphs in this prompt are: 

• ➡ The fact that filmmaking is increasingly more accessible has helped add variety to cinematography.
• ➡ Additionally, easy access to filming technology helps discover hidden talented people.

To support the personal viewpoint that modern digital technology allows everyone to make films is a positive development, the author presents the main benefit of this, which is that it makes cinematography in general  more diverse , and with the advantages of the technology, we have  discovered many hidden talents .

In their essay, they present these two main points. And they use introductory phrases and paragraph structure to let the examiner know which point they are addressing. Learn these IELTS Writing tips to have an effective Task 2!

To achieve a band score of 7.0 or higher for the Writing Task 2, you must provide authentic evidence to persuade the examiner. Refer to the following example to understand more about how to write IELTS Writing Task 2:

Using the same prompt as above, the development would be as follows, for the first argument:

• The fact that filmmaking is increasingly more accessible has helped add variety to cinematography. Movies made by big companies, on the one hand, are restricted to a handful of themes and backgrounds, several of which are even heavily censored. On the other hand, films made by potential filmmakers, albeit amateur, transcend barriers of ethnicities and backgrounds.
• Around 400-500 movies are made by Hollywood every year, many of which are Americentric and revolve around superheroes, romance, thrillers, and comedies. Meanwhile, with a phone sitting in our pockets and film editing applications at our disposal, that number can add up to millions, with more themes covered and a great array of settings shown.

They prove the point that the increasing accessibility of filmmaking has helped diversify cinematography. They mention that films produced by large companies often face issues with censorship and copyright. Additionally, they provide two figures, 400-500 and millions, to talk about the number of films made by major producers and amateur filmmakers.

Hopefully, some IELTS Writing tips for Task 2 shared in this article will help you complete the exam quickly and efficiently. PREP wishes all Preppies good luck in their exam preparation, knowing how to write IELTS Writing Task 2, and achieving high results in the real exam!

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IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

Ielts writing task 2 sample 366 - why do you think teachers give homework to students, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, why do you think teachers give homework to students how important is it for students to have homework are there any other ways of revising school lessons perhaps homework should be abolished. give your opinion about this..

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Addressing the Task

You will get a lower score in IELTS writing task 2 if you don’t fully address the task in the essay question. This means you need to check your essay plan before you start writing your essay.

Your plan must address all issues in the question.

I hope you find this lesson useful 🙂

IELTS Essay Question

• The main topic is: how children spend their leisure time
• The IELTS essay question below has two issues that need addressing: homework and sport

Essay Question: Some people think that children should spend their free time doing homework, while others believe it would be better for children to participate in sports activities instead. What is your opinion?

One Sided Opinion

If you agree with one side, for example that sport is more important, then you must still address both issues.

BP1 – I believe that sport is the best way for children to spend their leisure time because it promotes health.

BP2 – I also think sport is good because students can avoid stress and enjoy their free time.

Comments: This plan is WRONG!!!!! If you agree with one side ( that sport is important), you can’t ignore the issue of homework. Your opinion must address both sport and homework – in the body paragraphs as well as the introduction. This essay would get a low score for Task Response, which is 25% of your marks.

BP1 – I believe that sport is the best way for children to spend their leisure time.

BP2 – other people think that homework is more important

Comments: This plan is WRONG!!!!! This is an opinion essay, it is not a discussion. This means the instructions are asking for YOUR opinion, not other people’s opinions. Writing a full body paragraph about other people’s opinions is irrelevant to the instructions and will lower your score.

BP 1 – I believe that sport is the best way for children to spend their leisure time as it promotes health and reduces stress.

BP 2 – I think children should not do homework in their free time because they already spend six hours a day studying and should not do more educational work.

Comments: This is correct. Your opinion has been given on both issues. But personally, I wouldn’t take this approach to this essay question. See below:

Partial Agreement (Balanced View)

For this essay question, I would recommend a balanced view (a partial agreement). This does not mean you agree with both sides equally. It means you present a specific view which is quantified.

Thesis Statement =  In my opinion, while some homework is useful, the amount should be limited and children should spend more time playing sport instead.

BP 1 = children should spend only a small amount of their free time doing homework and the length of time should limited to avoid pressure and stress.

• homework is an essential part of educational development
• homework should be limited to avoid stress which has an adverse effect on school performance
• parents and schools should help children limit this time

BP 2 = the main focus of children’s leisure time should be on sport because ….

• children need to enjoy life outside their educational studies for their own welbeing
• children can benefit through improved health
• having an interest outside school helps reduce stress and encourages them to meet new people

Comments: There is a clear opinion which has been fully explained and addresses all issue.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips & Models

You can find writing task 2 tips and model essays on this page: IELTS Writing Task 2 Main Page . All my writing task 2 lessons are for GT and Academic students.

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Hi Liz, Thank you very much for your valuable lessons. What happened if the task response is partially achieved in task 2 while other criteria are satisfactory

You are given a score for each marking criteria and then your final score is calculated from those. This is why aiming high in the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion is essential because it’s the easiest marking criterion and will boost your overall score.

Hello I took my IELTS test today. The topic was about some people think that TV adverts can have useful functions. What’s your opinion?

I made a silly mistake. In my first paragraph I wrote that TV advertisements can be educational. And then I used this silly example to support my idea!!! I said for example documatries shown on TV….

I totally forgot it was about adverts not TV shows!!! Anyway my second main idea was relevant and I supported it pretty well.

My second paragraph was about TV adverts drawbacks. I used to nice main idea and supported them very well.

And finally concluded my writing.

Now I’m feeling terrible for supporting one of my main ideas with an irrelevant example!!!

How much do you think I will lose??

The rest of my writing was very good though including the overview.

This type of error only affects your score for Task Response which is 25% of your marks. It does not have any impact on the other three marking criteria. It’s always best to underline keywords in the essay question and when you start each body paragraph ensure that those keywords are included or paraphrased in the first sentence – always stop and re-read the question before starting a paragraph.

Where was this wonderful link was hiding till now? I did not find this on main page of writing task 2.

I haven’t unloaded the link on the main page yet.

In this kind of essays which offer 2 issues , do you mean by ” quantified view” that the view dosn’t agree with both issues evenly but it throws the balance in favour one of them ?

Thank you very much …

Sorry I actually don’t understand what you have written.

I am very sorry .

I just wanted to know that for an essay like the provided above, if I wrote as a thesis statement “in my opinion, I believe that children have to do both sports and homework in their free time ” is this quantified ?

And if I wrote ” in my opinion, I believe student should not ignore any part of their life, and should allocate specific hours for doing homework and the same for sport” Is this quantified ?

I am sorry if my question doesn’t make sense .

No, your opinion is not quantified. A quantified view is that younger children should do less homework and more sport but older children should spend more time focusing on academic studies rather than sport. That is a clear opinion. You shouldn’t sit on the fence.

Yes, thanks a lot.💜 I guess I will go to the one sided opinion as it is a safer strategy.😥

It is safer. This is the reason that some teachers only teach the one sided approach. However, I prefer to teach both options so students have more choices.

You are perfection itself. Thank you for all your efforts. I would have been destroyed without your site.

hi Liz hope you are fine actually, I purchased your advanced lessons which are amazing but after this question, I am little bit confused about the one-sided opinion essay I thought that I should only write about one which I agree with, between the advanced opinion lesson and this one how I would differentiate between writing about two opinions or one as in advanced lesson? I had taken an exam last month and I got an opinion essay about robot whether it is important in human’s development or has a negative aspect? whether I agree or disagree I agreed ONLY with one side and wrote my whole essay about this but, unfortunately, I got 5.5 despite that I have divided the essay into 4 paragraphs with a central topic sentence and used high-level words. thank you very much.

I’m struggling to understand your writing. Explain to me what your FULL essay question was and what your essay contained. An one sided opinion is about agreeing 100% or disagreeing 100%. A balanced view is a partial agreement – a specific view. Try to ask me clear questions so I can help you.

I apologize for my unclear question, honestly, I don’t remember exactly the full essay question but I’m sure it was an opinion essay as it ended with do you agree or disagree,

my question is, between the given question above and the one in the advanced lesson WHY we should agree with one and disagree with the other issue (such as sport or doing homework)?

if we should only write about one side which is sport or doing homework as written in an Opinion Essay: Extra Tips number 10.

because dear Liz after your advice I am not going to write about balanced or specific opinion at least for now as I’m not so confident with my language.

Thank you very much and God bless you,

I think I understand your question. You want to know about essay questions with two issues. Some essay questions have only one issue: free education (agree or disagree). This means when we agree there is only one issue to write about – free education or not free. Some essay questions have two issues: sport or homework (two completely different things). In this case, you need to write a full opinion which addresses the whole question: I think sport but not homework (that is a one sided opinion) or I agree homework but not sport (that is a one sided view). Or I think homework for one hour and all other free time is sport (this is a balanced view which is quantified. This principle is the same with any question: Do you prefer buses or cars? I prefer buses because and I don’t like cars because… – always use your common sense with IELTS – it will help you.

Thank you very much, Liz, 🙂

hello Angel.. If it is do u prefer buses to travel? then how to proceed Do we need to listout reasons in each paragraph?

If this is a Balance essay why not have 5 paragraph?

You said Balance essay has 5 but one side has 4 Really confused

An IELTS essay has either 4 or 5 paragraphs depending on the main ideas you are presenting.

Good morning Liz, Plz I have a question regarding this.

If the statement given by IELTS was ” It’s better for children to spend their free time participating in sport activities rather than doing their homework . What’s your opinion? ”

And if I wanted to put one sided opinion that I agree on this.

Do I still have to put the paragraphs as given in the model above

Bp1. I believe that sport is the best way for children. Bp2. I do not think that children should do their homework in their free time.

Or is it better to demonstrate it like this ?

Bp1. I believe that taking part in sports is the best leisure activity because it promotes health. Bp2. I think that practicing some kind of sports is better than doing homework because students need to enjoy life outside their educational studies.

Is it right this way ? Or I still have to write a whole paragraph about why “I don’t agree on doing homework in the free time “.

I hope you can find time to answer my inquiry. Thank you very much 🙂

Don’t complicate things. Your first option is correct. If you agree with sport, then you also disagree with homework – simple and logical. Don’t forget, your ideas and organisation should be simple and logical, but your English can be more complex.

🙂 Yes, I understand now. Thank you very much ❤

Thank you for your useful tips, but what do you mean by BP1?

Body paragraph 1 = the first body paragraph after the introduction.

Oh I got it…………. Thank you

Thank you so much Liz. I got a clear understanding about the Opinion essay.

Hello Liz, I’m confused. In all “Agree/Disagree” and “Opinion” essays should we give partial agreement or opinion to one side. Can’t we strongly agree or have a strong opinion to one side?

Your opinion is your choice. You can choose one sided or partial agreement.

Hi Liz thanx a lot lacking words to express my profound gratitude for whatevr you hav done & u r still doing. thanx a million from all the students from India

hello Liz how to attend agree and disagree essay? we should discuss both point or we have to discuss only one. need your guidance thanks

It is explained on the page above. It shows you how to answer opinion essays. You can also buy advanced lessons which explain this in more depth: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

thanks alot mam

I always wonder what shall I do if I do not understand the question or I don’t have any information?

I suggest you prepare ideas for all topics both common topics and current topics. You are marked on your ideas in IELTS writing. But ideas (your answer) is only 25% of your marks. You can still get points for organisations, linking, grammar and vocab.

Hello, Liz Could you kindly provide me with some writing tips for two parts question type of writing task 2, how to improve the score for this type of question? Shall I plan BP1: Causes, BP2: Suggestions?

For instance, the subject is: There are less and less young people reading the newspapers, or watching the news on TV now. What are the main causes? Solutions and suggestions to solve this problem?

Always choose the most logical organisation. This is how the examiner will mark you. If it is simple and logical, then you get a high score. So, your method is fine.

Thanks very much for your prompt response, Liz!

Hi Liz thanks for this paramount information.I appreciate, kindly if i get a question that asks do advantages outweigh disadvantages, is it okay to talk about one side that maybe talk about advantages in both paragraphs.I will appreciate your input since am sitting for my ielts exam next week.thank you in advance

This is about which is more important AND also which is less important.

Mam can u plz give me cue cards bcz its my spking on 25 oct.🙏🙏

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-speaking-free-lessons-essential-tips/

hey mam you are not replying me???

I am not able to reply to all comments.

is this correct?? In my opinion I tink engaging in sport activities is the best way for children to spend their leisure time. on the other hand, children doing Their home work during leisure time should not be neglected. BP1: engaging in sport activities promotes health And physical fitness. BP2: children doing homework during their leisure gives a child a better understanding though this should be limited as the child already spend more time in school doing class work.

Your opinion needs to be clearer: “In my opinion, although homework should not be neglected, children should spend most of their free time engaged in sports activities.”

Is there any other ways to buy advanced writing task2 lessons except for Paypal.

All transactions are processed through paypal either using an account or a bank card.

Hello Liz, Please send me a link to know about different types of essays and sample for each type. Opinion, discussion etc., so that I can easily understand how to answer or plan in exam. Lots of love… Raj

See my main writing task 2 page which is free: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ or my advanced lessons which you can purchase: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

Hi Liz, could you assess my essay Thanks in advance Increasing numbers of students are going to university instead of working after high school.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who do this.

The number of students attending universities is becoming larger than those working after graduating high school.Although paid work is thought by some to be a useful experience for secondary school students, other people consider that they are also some drawbacks to be taken into account.

One the one hand, despite there are some upsides of employing after high school graduation, such as knowing the value for money, learning how to manage money which consequently lowers the financial burden that some students shoulder and helps them to be self-supporting adults, they are also some negative aspects of students paid work. For instance, students who employ after secondary school do not focus on completing their education and achieving their career goals. In addition to that, they become money oriented which has a negative ramifications on their future live. Moreover, they lose the skills and experiences, they could gain in university, to compete in the job market which consequently limit them in minor jobs.

On the other hand, there are many advantages of getting enrolled into universities and colleges. Firstly, students after higher education can achieve the necessary education and degree they require to get a job or build a career. Secondly, for many students, universities are the best place to learn about knowledge, values, diverse cultures, as by meeting more educated people, students can improve their social skills. Thirdly, in today’s competitive world, technology is the master. Higher education students can cope with the latest technological advances which help them to be the future builders.

In conclusion, while there are some benefits and drawbacks of working for money after high school, there are tremendous and potential opportunities of continuing tertiary education studies .

Sorry, I don’t offer free marking.

Thank you mam for the valuable guidance.

Thank you so much for your dedication,your advice is really helpful!😘

Dear Liz, I have watched your lessons, and found that for one sided opinion essays we ought to focus on only one side and there is no need to incorpotare other side! However, it seems that there is still another sort of opinion essay that requires for which we should mention both sides no matter we have planned a one sided opinion, e.g. the topic on the top! Could you please give me more guidance on this matter? This is important to note that the topic I had been given in the actual exam was : government should spend more on art than other important things. Do you agree or disagree? According to what I have realized from this webpage I MUST talk about both art and other important things even though if I wanna write down a one sided essay! Would you please correct me if I am wrong?

A one sided view means that you agree with one and disagree with the other. So, you would tackle both issues. But if the essay question only has one issue (people think all children should do more exercise at school – do you agree?), then your opinion only tackles this single issue. The key is to check how many issues are in the question and address them all with either one sided or partial agreement.

Is there any differento between ” to what extent do you agree” and “what is your opinion ” type of question.

No difference. They are the same instructions – they require an opinion.

Dear Liz, In this case, shall we spend a paragraph on one issue and the other on the second issue? What is the best plan for two-issue opinion essays? Thanks, Ali

I have outlined the plan for a partial agreement in the page above. If you are still confused, see my advanced writing task 2 lessons which can be purchased on this page: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/

Hi, Liz. Thanks, for all your favour. I’m a little bit mixed in ” agree or disagree “and “give your opinion” essay If I agree do I have to support , develop my ideas on both Bp1,Bp2 on that? or do I have to express my disagreement as well in Bp2 ? However in Opinion essays(as above) I have to give my opinion for both of views despite I support one. Am I write? Thanks, before

An opinion essay, means your whole essay provides your opinion. Each body paragraph explains a main point to support your view.

Thanks a lot Liz… Always appreciate your help on such tips…

Thank you very much, it is really helpful

Wooooow Amazinf thanks indeed God bless you Madam ,Liz

Thank u sooo much for your guidance .you are amazing personality

Thank you so much, I’m confused whether we should write 2 body paragraphs or 3 ? Could you please explain the difference between them

You choose either two or three body paragraphs depending on the ideas you have for your essay.

Thank you so much for your explanation but i’m so confused that all opinion essays need to state both sides of view or we just choose only one?

Your opinion will explain your view on the issue or issues given in the question. That’s all. Some questions have one issue and some have two issues – you give your opinion on the whole question.

Thank you very much for this advise!

I did not understand that how can I “quantify” in this balanced view. As far as I understood that you have quantified it by ” limiting the homework time to avoid pressure and stress”. Please correct me if I am wrong!

Quantifying Example: Who should be responsible for teaching young children – teachers or parents Non-quantified view: both teachers and parents should be responsible Quantified view: parents should be responsible in the early years, teachers as the child grows older.

Mam here is a essay statement: Some people think that the government is wasting money on the arts and that this money could be better spent elsewhere. To what extent do you agree with this view.

According to me: The main topic is: use of money by government Is this essay also has two Issues : one is art and we can write about art in BP1 and in BP2 can we write about other things on which we think government should have to spend money??

You must present a clear position for your opinion. That is the key. You can’t sit on the fence and write about both sides without a clear position. You need to quantify it.

Ok mam I will practise more Thanks

Oh yeh, this was the topic I had been given in the last IELTS exam I took! What I did, I soley focused on “other important things”, but clearly mentioned my opinion in the introduction and conclusion. More specifically, I did not mention any thing about art, except in introduction! Please let me know if I have screwed it up!

Thanks, Ali

Thanks a lot..liz….the lesson is really helpful

Thanks,Liz this can really help!

Thanks mam, your lessons are truly helpful ….I need to know about discussion essay As I m going to take Ielts on 2nd of November for first time …

See this page: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/

Thank you vey much for your dedication. can we use balanced view for all opinion essays?or it depends upon the question asked?.if we present a balanced view ,will it help us to generate more ideas for the essay?

The choice of one sided or balanced view does not affect your score. You choose the easiest opinion.

Thank you very much madam 🙂

Thank you so much Liz. This was a great help 🙂

Regards. Sadia.

Thank you mam It is really useful and clear my doubts also regarding this type of essay.

I’m really pleased 🙂

Yes I do Understand…..😊

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