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...