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HƯỚNG DẪN VIẾT IELTS TASK 2

PART A. GIỚI THIỆU CHUNG
I. Lưu ý quan trọng:
1. Không được viết tắt. 2. Không đươc chép lại đề bài.
3. Không được đạo văn. 4. Nên viết bài luận gồm 4 đoạn văn.
5. Hạn chế sử dụng thành ngữ tục ngữ. 6. Không sử dụng ngôn ngữ quá xuồng xã.
7 Bài luận viết để cho khán giả không chuyên. Chính vì vậy ngôn ngữ sử dụng trong bài luận không
cần thiết phải quá chuyên sâu như bài luận ở đại học.
8 Thí sinh trong hầu hết các trường hợp đều được yêu cầu phải đưa ra ý kiến. Thí sinh hoàn toàn có
thể đưa ra những trải nghiệm bản thân và những ví dụ liên quan để chứng minh cho luận điểm của
mình.
8 Chủ đề của kì thi viết IETLS thường về những chủ đề chung chung như du lịch, ăn ở, dịch vụ, sức
khỏe và an toàn, giải trí, vấn đề xã hội, vấn đề môi trường, …Vậy nên không cần thiết phải sử
dụng những kiến thức chuyên ngành.
10 Không chép lại cả câu chủ đề. Giám khảo sẽ không tính câu được chép lại là một phần của bài
viết
II. Giải thích cách tính điểm
Một bài luận IELTS được chấm dựa vào 4 tiêu chí khác nhau, mỗi tiêu chí có giá trị như nhau khi
tính điểm tổng (25% mỗi tiêu chí) Để được band điểm cao, một bài essay cần:
TR: Task Response: Trả lời hết tất cả các phần của đề bài.
Có luận điểm rõ ràng.
Đưa ra những ý và chi tiết liên quan và phát triển đầy đủ.
CC: Coherence & Cohesion:
Sắp xếp thông tin một cách logic.
Sử dụng từ nối chính xác và hiệu quả.
Chia đoạn văn hợp lí.
Đưa ra một ý trọng tâm trong mỗi đoạn, có sự tiến triển xuyên suốt.
LR: Lexical Resource: Sử dụng vốn từ vựng phong phú theo cách tự nhiên để truyền tải
thông điệp chính xác với ít lỗi sai. Có ít lỗi sai về chính tả và cấu tạo từ
GRA: Grammatical Range & Accuracy
Sử dụng cấu trúc ngữ pháp một cách đa dạng và chính xác
Có ít lỗi sai về ngữ pháp và dấu câu, không gây ảnh hưởng đến việc hiểu

III. WRITING BAND DESCRIPTIONS

Band Task Response Coherence and Lexical Resource Grammatical Range

Cohesion and Accuracy
 fully addresses all  uses cohesion in  uses a wide range of  uses a wide range of
parts of the task such a way that vocabulary with very natural structures with full
 presents a fully it attracts no and sophisticated control of flexibility and
developed position attention lexical features; rare minor accuracy; rare
9 in answer to the  skillfully errors occur only as ‘slips’ minor errors occur
only as ‘slips’
question with manages
relevant, fully paragraphing
 extended and well
supported ideas
 sufficiently  sequences  uses a wide range of vocabulary  uses a wide range of
addresses all parts information and  fluently and flexibly to convey structures
of the task ideas precise meanings  the majority of
 presents a well-  logically  skillfully uses uncommon lexical sentences are error-
8 developed response  manages all
aspects of
items but there may be
occasional inaccuracies in word
free
to the question  makes only very
cohesion well choice and collocation
with relevant,  uses paragraphing  produces rare errors in spelling occasional errors or
extended and sufficiently and and/or word formation inappropriacies
supported ideas appropriately
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IELTS TASK 2: WRITING BAND DESCRIPTIONS

Band Task Response Coherence and Cohesion Lexical Resource Grammatical Range
and Accuracy
 addresses all parts of  logically organizes  uses a sufficient range  uses a variety of
the task information and ideas; of vocabulary to allow complex
 presents a clear there is clear some flexibility and structures
position throughout progression throughout precision  produces frequent
7 the response  uses a range of cohesive
devices appropriately
 uses less common error-free
 presents, extends and lexical items with sentences
supports main ideas, although there may be some awareness of  has good control
some under-/over-use style and collocation
but there may be a of grammar and
tendency to  presents a clear central  may produce punctuation but
topic within each
overgeneralise and/or occasional errors may make a few
paragraph
 supporting ideas may  in word choice, errors
lack focus spelling and/or word
formation
 addresses all parts of  arranges information  uses an adequate range  uses a mix of
the task although and ideas coherently of vocabulary for the simple and
some parts may be and there is a clear task complex sentence
more fully covered overall progression  attempts to use less forms
6 than others  uses cohesive devices
effectively, but
common vocabulary  makes some errors
 presents a relevant but with some in grammar and
position although the cohesion within and/or inaccuracy punctuation but
conclusions may between sentences may they rarely reduce
 makes some errors in
become unclear or be faulty or mechanical communication
spelling and/or word
repetitive  may not always use
formation, but they do
referencing clearly or
 presents relevant main not impede
appropriately
ideas but some may be communication
 uses paragraphing, but
inadequately not always logically
developed/unclear
 addresses the task only  presents information  uses a limited range of  uses only a limited
partially; the format with some organization vocabulary, but this is range of structures
may be inappropriate in but there may be a lack minimally adequate for  attempts complex
places of overall progression the task sentences but these
5  expresses a position but  makes inadequate,
the development is not inaccurate or over use
 may make noticeable
errors in spelling and/or
tend to be less
accurate than
always clear and there of cohesive devices word formation that simple sentences
may be no conclusions  may be repetitive may cause some  may make frequent
drawn because of lack of difficulty for the reader grammatical
 presents some main referencing and errors. Punctuation
ideas but these are substitution may be faulty;
limited and not  may not write in errors can cause
sufficiently developed; paragraphs, or some difficulty for
there may be irrelevant paragraphing may be the reader
detail inadequate
 responds to the task  presents information and  uses only basic  uses only a very
only in a minimal way ideas but these are not vocabulary which may limited range of
or the answer is arranged coherently be used repetitively or structures with
tangential; the format and there is no clear which may be only rare use of
4 may be inappropriate
 presents a position but
progression in the
response
inappropriate for the
task
subordinate
clauses
this is unclear  uses some basic  has limited control of  some structures are
 presents some main cohesive devices but word formation and/or accurate but errors
ideas but these are these may be inaccurate spelling; errors may predominate, and
difficult to identify and or repetitive cause strain for the punctuation is
may be repetitive,  may not write in reader often faulty
irrelevant or not well paragraphs or their use
supported may be confusing
Band Task Response Coherence and Cohesion Lexical Resource Grammatical Range
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and Accuracy
 does not adequately  does not organize ideas  uses only a very limited  attempts sentence
address any part of the logically range of words and forms but errors in
3 
task
does not express a clear
 may use a very limited
range of cohesive
expressions with very
limited control of word
grammar and
punctuation
position devices, and those used formation and/or predominate and
 presents few ideas, may not indicate a spelling distort the
which are logical relationship  errors may severely meaning
 largely undeveloped or between ideas distort the message
irrelevant
 barely responds to the  has very little control of  uses an extremely  cannot use sentence
task organizational features limited range of forms except in
2  does not express a
position
vocabulary; essentially
no control of word
memorized
phrases
 may attempt to present formation and/or
one or spelling
 two ideas but there is
no development

1  answer is completely
unrelated to the task
 fails to communicate
any message
 can only use a few
isolated words
 cannot use sentence
forms at all

0 

does not attend
does not attempt the task in any way
 writes a totally memorized response

………………………………………………………………………………….

PART B: HƯỚNG DẪN CỤ THỂ

I. KỸ NĂNG VIẾT LẠI CÂU

BƯỚC 1: Thay một số từ trong câu gốc bằng những từ đồng nghĩa.
Eg: The government should support local businesses. (authorities- help/aid/ assist/ local
companies)
BƯỚC 2: Sử dụng những thủ thuật sau
Passive – Active: Cấu trúc câu có thể được đổi từ dạng chủ động sang bị động hoặc ngược lại:
(Local companies should be assisted by the authorities.)
Word forms: Dạng từ của nhiều từ trong câu gốc cũng có thể được thay đổi. (Support (v) support
(n) Or you can change the form of the synonyms of the words. Help/Aid/Assist (v)
Help/Aid/Assistance (n)  The authorities should provide support/aid/help/assistance for
local companies.)
Dummy Subjects: Sử dụng chủ ngữ giả (it, there) để viết lại câu. (It is necessary/
important/vital for the authorities to provide assistance for local companies)
Definition: Định nghĩa về một từ hoặc cụm từ cũng có thể được đưa ra. (The government or
national leaders (It is vital for or national leaders to provide assistance for local companies.)

II. ĐOẠN VĂN: Một đoạn văn tốt cần có 2 yếu tố sau:
1. Câu mở đoạn:
Đây là câu đầu tiên của một đoạn. Câu mở đoạn khái quát ý chính và nội dung mà người viết muốn
triển khai trong đoạn. Câu mở đoạn thường ngắn, đơn giản và đi thẳng vào vấn đề.
2. Câu triển khai ý
Những câu triển khai được dùng để phân tích và phát triển đã được đưa ra ở câu mở đoạn.
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Những chi tiết được đưa vào những câu này cần liên quan, logic, và cụ thể.
Một số chi tiết có thể đươc dùng để phân tích và phát triển ý:
 Definition  Reason & Result  Example  Comparison  Hypothesis  Fact
- Một đoạn thường có 4 đến 5 câu./ - Một đoạn không cần câu kết bài

Eg: Advertising helps us shop better.

Definition: Advertising is a form of commercial communication that tells us what is most suitable
for our needs.
Reason & result: The reason is that advertisements on TV and in supermarkets are the way to give
us information about the product we are going to buy. Therefore, we will know the product better
and make wiser decisions.
Example: For example, whenever I want to buy any electric devices, I have to check their adverts
to know the choices I have before making any purchases.
Comparison: In the past, we could not know anything about what we were going to buy and were
more likely to make bad decisions. Meanwhile, in the modern world of advertising, we are able to
know exactly what we need to buy before going to shopping malls or supermarkets.
Hypothesis: Unless we have advertising to keep us well-informed, we will be more likely to buy
things we do not really need.
Fact: In fact, we can see all kinds of adverts, from flyers to banners, in every shopping mall and
supermarket to give us information about the products that are being sold

III. CẤU TRÚC 1 BÀI LUẬN HOÀN CHỈNH

Bài luận task 2 của IELTS luô n bao gồm 4 đoạn văn.
Mở bài: (2-3 c âu): •Giới thiệu chủ đề • Trả lời câu hỏi/đưa ra định hướng bài viết.
Thân bài: •Đoạn 1 = Câu mở đoạn + Câu triển khai { (giải thích và ví dụ)
•Đoạn 2 = Câu mở đoạn + Câu triển khai { (giải thích và ví dụ)
Kết bài: • Nhắc lại câu trả lời

1. MỞ BÀI
Một mở bài tốt cần làm được 2 nhiệm vụ:
Giới thiệu chủ đề (1-2 câu)
Trả lời câu hỏi, đưa ra định hướng cho bài viết (1-2 câu)

Eg: Some people think that video games are advantageous while others believe video
games are harmful to the people who play them. Discuss both views and give your
opinion.

Chủ đề: Some people think that video games are advantageous while others believe video games
are harmful to the people who play them. Yêu cầu: Discuss both views and give your opinion

Cách 1: Some people think that playing video games is beneficial to their users while others say that
video games are more disadvantageous (Giới thiệu chủ đề). I will discuss both sides of this
argument in my essay below and give my personal view in the conclusion (Đưa ra định hướng bài
viết).

Cách 2: Some people think that playing video games is beneficial to their users while others say that
video games are more disadvantageous (Giới thiệu chủ đề). Personally I believe these players can
enjoy a lot of benefits from video games. (Trả lời câu hỏi)
So sánh 2 cách viết mở bài:
Cách 1: Dễ hơn, tiết kiệm thời gian để tập trung vào thân bài, tránh lặp từ lặp ý.
Cách 2: Mất nhiều thời gian hơn, có khả năng sẽ lặp từ lặp ý.

5 hiểu nhầm khi viết mở bài:

(1) Mở bài phải thú vị mới được điểm cao. (2) Viết càng dài càng tốt. (3) Chép lại đề bài.
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(4) Thay hết các từ có trong đề bài. (5) Trả lời câu hỏi một cách mơ hồ
2. CÁCH PHÁT TRIỂN THÂN BÀI
Một đoạn thân bài tốt thường: Có một ý chủ đạo. Ý chủ đạo được triển khai bằng những lời giải
thích và ví dụ cụ thể.
Đoạn 1: On the one hand, playing video games has some advantages (Topic sentence).
Firstly, games help their players relax and therefore improve their work efficiency afterwards (Sub-
idea 1). This is extremely important for both working people and students who have to deal with
increasing workload nowadays (Supporting sentence). Secondly, playing games also has some
educational purposes (Sub-idea 2). For example, many modern games are designed with English
instructions, and players around the world can play together and communicate in English. This
motivates players to learn English in order to play the games well (Supporting sentences).
* Lưu ý: Không cần thiết phải viết câu kết đoạn
On the other hand, playing video games frequently causes several problems for players
(Topic sentence). To begin with, such an activity is really addictive and sometimes takes away too
much time, which will make it extremely difficult for people to get out and do exercise (Sub-idea
1). Consequently, these people are likely to suffer from a lot of diseases, such as back pain or
maybe obesity, due to this lack of physical exercise (Supporting sentence). The second
disadvantage of playing games is that it can distract players, especially young students, from their
study or work (Sub-idea 2). For instance, my younger brother used to spend hours playing games
everyday, and now his scores at school are really low (Supporting sentence).

3. CÁCH VIẾT KẾT BÀI

Khẳng định lại quan điểm, và có thể tóm tắt các ý chính trong bài TRONG 1-2 CÂU.
In conclusion, playing video games is both advantageous and disadvantageous in many
aspects. And in my view, the extent to which each user of video games is affected is different and
more or less depends on how much time he or she spends on those games. (282 words)
* Chú ý: Không đề cập đến những gì đề bài không yêu cầu.
…………………………………………………………………………………………………….

PART C: The 10 most common mistakes in IELTS academic writing

1. Using contractions (for example ‘I don’t think’ or ‘We can’t say’ ) instead of the full form
(‘I do not think’ or ‘we cannot say.’) Never use contractions in academic writing.

2. Writing too few words. If you write much less than the required word count, the examiner
has to reduce your score, even if your essay is good quality. You should count the number of words
in your essay after each paragraph and keep a continuous total; this way, you can be sure of
reaching at least 250 words in 40 minutes.

3. Writing too many words. The examiner is paid to mark on an ‘essay per hour basis,’ and so
will not read the end of an essay if it exceeds the minimum word count by more than about 50
words. This means he or she will not see the end of your argument, and your score will reduce
considerably. Remember: 250 words minimum, and about 300 words maximum in Academic task 2
writing.

4. Having handwriting that is difficult to read. IELTS is still a handwritten exam, and
the examiners will not spend time trying to understand your writing. You must make sure that your
handwriting can be read quickly. You should focus on writing clearly when you do your practice
essays. Ask friends or other students to give you an honest opinion about whether your writing is
easy to read.
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5. Using informal words (for example ‘a nice idea’ or ‘a silly thing to do’) instead of academic
words (for example ‘a positive idea’ or ‘a regrettable thing to do.’) Remember that academic
vocabulary is different from the language you would use in English when talking to friends.

6. Giving personal opinion in an IDEAS type task. Check if the task is asking for your
opinion or not. The first question you should ask yourself is ‘Is this an OPINION or an IDEAS
task?’

7. Telling stories about your personal history, friends or family . The task tells you to
use ‘examples from your own experience,’ but this does not mean describing stories from your life
or people you know. It means describing examples of things in the world that you know about, have
studied or have learned about in the media.

8. Giving evidence which is too detailed or specific to a subject. You may be an

expert in a particular social or scientific field, but the examiner probably has a different specialty.
You need to make your ideas and examples accessible to a general reader. For example, if the Task
topic is about money and you are an accountant, do not use specialized accounting terms.

9. Being emotional or too dramatic when giving your opinion in an OPINION task.
You may feel strongly about issues such as animals or crime, but academic writing must be
unemotional. So avoid phrases such as ‘a disgusting idea’ or ‘I detest this concept.’ It is much better
to say ‘an unacceptable idea’ or ‘I disapprove of this concept,’ which is more impersonal and
academic; similar to the type of writing that people use in business reports or university essays.

10. Not following the basic structures presented in this book. The examiners want to
see a clear, well-structured essay that is easy to read. They are accustomed to seeing the structures
we have presented in this book, and they will feel more positive about your essay if they can
recognize these structures in what you write. Remember: the topic under discussion will be different
every time, but the basic concept behind the task and the essay will be the same. Give the examiners
what they want, and they will reward you with a high score, even if there are some grammatical
mistakes in your English.
………………………………………………………………………………….

PART D: DẠNG BÀI “DISCUSS BOTH VIEWS + GIVE YOUR

OPINION”
In this guide, you'll learn how to answer IELTS writing task 2 questions that ask you
to discuss both points of view before giving your opinion. This type of question is often confused
with an agree/disagree question or a give your opinion question. In the latter types of questions, you
can choose an opinion and generate your arguments. However, for a discuss both views + give
opinion question, you have to discuss both points of view impartially before giving your own view.
In this lesson you will see IELTS writing task 2 sample question + model answer and learn:
 how to impartially discuss the points of view
 how to present your own point of view
 how to give a band 9 answer
IELTS question - discuss both views + give opinion
Let's look at an example of IELTS writing task 2 question that asks you to discuss both views and
give your opinion:
Example: You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
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It is commonly believed that nowadays main factors that affect a child's

development are media, pop culture and friends. A different point of view is that
family plays the most significant role.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
Step 1:
Generate arguments for each point of view:
First of all, you have to identify the two opinions. These are:
 External factors have more considerable influence on a child's development.
 The family has a greater influence on a child's development.
Next, let's brainstorm for arguments that support each side:
External factors have a more considerable influence on a child's development.
1. Children tend to copy the behavior of their favorite fictional characters.
2. Children spend a lot of time with their peers.
3. Technology has an all-pervasive impact on children.
The family has a greater influence on a child's development.
1. Parents are always present in the life of a child.
2. The younger the children are, the more malleable their character is.
3. Parents can set boundaries and have more control over their children.
Step 2:
Choose your point of view:
For our essay, we will agree that although external factors influence the development of a child,
parents and family still have the upper hand.
Our reason: A child's choice of friends, books or music depends on the values instilled in them by
their parents.
Band 9 answer structure for discuss both views + give opinion essay
Though there are many ways to structure your IELTS essay, we’ll use this time-tested band 9 essay
structure:
1. Introduction 2. Body paragraph 1 – discuss the first opinion
3. Body paragraph 2 – discuss the second opinion
4. Body paragraph 3 – give your own opinion 5. Conclusion
Introduction
Paraphrase the statement (sentences 1 and 2) and give your own opinion (sentence 3):
It is often held that teachers, peers and the media have a significant influence on the life of children.
While some people argue that these factors are predominant in shaping a child's future, others
believe that parents impact their offspring in more critical ways. This essay will discuss both these
points of view and argue in favour of the latter.
Body paragraph 1
For this essay, it is good to write three body paragraphs. In the first paragraph, you can dissect the
first argument.
On the one hand, the books children read and the music they listen to form their belief system. In
other words, children tend to copy the behaviour of their favourite personality or fictional
character. Moreover, when little ones work and play in groups, they are influenced by their peers.
Finally, other factors, like the media, prompt children to want things regarded as fashionable. For
instance, children demand toys that they see on television.
Body paragraph 2
In the second paragraph, you can discuss the second point of view.
On the other hand, a child's personality is malleable at a very young age, and parents are always
present in their life at this stage. Also, very young children love to imitate. For example, children
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who come from a dysfunctional family often exhibit behavioural problems at school. An emotionally
secure environment at home is critical for the child's confidence. Moreover, parents also teach
children about setting boundaries.
Body paragraph 3
In the 3rd body paragraph, which is shorter than either of the above, you can give your opinion.
In my opinion, children's choice of friends, books or music depends on the values instilled in them
by their parents. Therefore, parents hold more substantial sway over their offspring than media,
pop culture and friends circle.
Conclusion
In the concluding paragraph, briefly summarise what you have written and restate your opinion:
In conclusion, the outside world influences the intellectual and social development of children.
However, I believe that it is parents who set the stage for these developments by laying a strong
foundation from a very young age.
……………………………………….……
SOME EXAMPLES AND ANALYSES
1. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Some people think that it is best to save money, for example in a bank or savings
scheme. Other people feel that money should be spent whenever it is available.
Discuss these views and reach an opinion on this debate. Give reasons for your
answer, and support your essay with ideas and examples from your own experience.
You should write at least 250 words.
Explanation of the task
This is our final example of an OPINION>DISCUSSION type task.
Model Essay
The question of whether to save or spend money is very topical today, as so many people are
struggling with financial worries. There are valid arguments on both sides, which I will discuss
now.
On the one hand, it is often said that spending money is one way to relax and enjoy life, for
instance by shopping or taking holidays, and there is certainly some truth in this. In addition, we
usually have no choice but to spend quite a large proportion of our available salary on day to day
expenses such as food, housing and transport, and so there is surprisingly little remaining to save
anyway. Finally, spending money on products and services boosts the economy and creates
employment, and in this sense is a worthwhile action.
On the other hand, other people point out the dangers of reckless spending, for example on
frivolous or unnecessary items, which is often encouraged by advertising. Young people in
particular are vulnerable to being influenced like this. Furthermore, advocates of saving often point
out that, without a reserve of funds for emergencies, unemployment or illness, people are putting
themselves at risk of hardship or even bankruptcy. This is especially true in the current economic
situation. Lastly on this side of the debate, people emphasise the need to accumulate wealth during
one’s lifetime, so that one’s children can inherit money or property which will increase their
security and standard of living.
Overall, I tend to agree that it is wiser to save money wherever possible, for reasons which
benefit both individuals today and future generations. (263 words.)

Examiner’s comments This is a Band 9 essay. As the examiner, it is immediately clear to me in the
first paragraph that the writer is introducing an OPINION > DISCUSSION essay, which the task
requires. The two sides of the topic are then discussed in logical paragraphs, with a series of simple
 9

examples to support each side. The linking phrases help to introduce each example (E.g. On the one
hand, in addition, finally,) and they also show me the stages of the essay (E.g Overall to introduce
the conclusion.) The English used is reasonably academic (E.g. Large proportion, emphasize the
need) and the sentences are generally clear. The reader gets the impression that the writer is rational
and well-informed, and able to discuss a topic objectively.
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2. You should spend about 40 minutes on this question.
Some people feel that it is always wrong to keep animals in captivity, for instance in
zoos. Other people say that there are benefits for the animals and for humans.
Discuss both sides of this debate, and give your personal view. You should give
reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples from your own knowledge and
experience. Write at least 250 words.

Explanation of the task

This is another OPINION > DISCUSSION type task. Although the topic and the words used
in the instructions are different to the previous task, you should follow the same basic structure.
You should discuss both sides objectively, describing two or three points on each side, and then
give your view in the conclusion.

Model Essay
Zoos continue to be controversial, even now that they have evolved into ‘animal parks’ or
similar facilities. Most people love animals, and there are strong views on both sides, which I will
discuss now.
People opposed to zoos highlight the unnatural way in which animals live in such places.
For example, captive animals do not need to hunt or raise offspring, and this means that they are not
living as nature intended. Furthermore, the anti-zoo lobby point out that animals probably suffer
mentally when kept in captivity, even if their surroundings are spacious and similar to the natural
habitat. Symptoms of mental issues range from repetitive behaviour to eating disorders, and these
are often seen in captive animals. Lastly, it is often said that zoos add little to animal conservation,
which is better served by preserving their habitat.
Conversely, those who support zoos say that in most cases they offer a secure and peaceful
setting for animals, for example in high quality wildlife parks or reserves. They add that in many
cases, the animals would suffer from loss of habitat or poaching in the wild, and in captivity they
are at least safe and able to breed successfully. Finally, zoo enthusiasts feel that zoos and animal
parks are part of an integrated system of protecting animals, involving habitat protection, breeding
programmes and disease control. This all helps to safeguard endangered species and thus preserve
the global ecosystem for the future benefit of all life forms.
Overall, I feel that zoos provide a valuable service to society and the animal world, as they
help to protect many species. This outweighs their possible disadvantages, as long as they are
properly staffed and maintained. (281 words)

Examiner’s comments. This would be a band 9 essay.

The style is academic but not excessively formal, and the writer gives a personal opinion
without emotion or humour. Both sides of the topic are discussed, using clear examples to illustrate
the points. There is a logical flow from the points supporting zoos into the conclusion, which also
supports the zoos. The language used is academic (e.g. conversely, thus) without being technical or
archaic. Linking phrases are used to guide the reader helpfully (e.g. furthermore, overall.) The
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conclusion includes a proviso (as long as they are . . .) which is a strong feature in academic
writing.
3. You should spend about 40 minutes on this question.
Some people believe that sport is an essential part of school life for children, while
others feel it should be purely optional. Discuss these opposing views and give your
own opinion. You should give reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples
from your own knowledge and experience. Write at least 250 words.
Explanation of the task
This is an OPINION > DISCUSSION type task. It asks you to consider both sides of an
argument, and then give your opinion. You should discuss both sides objectively, describing two or
three points on each side, and then give your personal view in the conclusion. Remember, your
personal view should be expressed without emotion or humour.
Model Essay
Sport continues to be a controversial topic in the school curriculum, just as sport itself has
become a controversial industry in some respects. There are valid opinions on both sides, which I
will consider now.
On the one hand, some people feel that sport uses up time which could be better spent on
academic subjects such as exam preparation. In addition, it might be said that it is unwise to force
children to do activities which they have no interest in. After all, some youngsters are just not
sporty, and should be allowed to study instead. Finally, there are question marks over the
wholesomeness of sport itself, with drugging and corruption scandals increasingly common, as we
see in cycling at present. Some people believe that this lack of morals sets a poor example to young
people.
On the other hand, though, one major benefit of sport is that it helps children’s physical
development at an important stage. If all their time was spent studying, they would become unfit
and their minds would eventually suffer. Furthermore, supporters of school sport emphasize the
importance of team building in sports such as football or hockey, which is often felt to be an
excellent preparation for adulthood. Finally, many people feel that a competitive spirit, so important
today, is fostered by sports at an early age. It is notable, for example, that many successful business
people excelled in sport at school.
Overall, I feel that sport should be compulsory for school children, because the positive
effect on their mental and physical development outweighs the negatives. This is as long as children
are given a wide range to choose from, to ensure their interest is high, and that the sports industry
itself maintains the highest standards of conduct. (293 words)
Examiner’s comments This essay would receive Band 9. It exceeds the minimum word
requirement and is clearly organized into introduction, main body discussion, and conclusion with
opinion. The candidate has introduced the topic, and then given several relevant points on each side
of the discussion. There are suitable examples at times, without too much detail. The conclusion has
a clear and relevant opinion. The English used is clear and uncomplicated, with good use of
common academic words (e.g. controversial, emphasize, excel.) The ideas and paragraphs are
connected by good use of common linking phrases (e.g. on the one hand, furthermore, overall.
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PART 5: PRACTICE YOURSELF

1. Some people think that hosting international sports event is good for the country, while some
people think it is bad.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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2. Some people think students should study the science of food and how to prepare it. Others think
students should spend tie on important subjects.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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3. Many people believe that children should do organized activities in their free time, while others
claim that children can choose what they want to do.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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4. Some people say free time activities for children should be organized (by parents). Others say
that children should be free to choose what they do in their free time.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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5. Government should do more to make their citizens have a healthy diet. However, some people
think individuals must take responsibility for their diet and health.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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6. People believe that individuals who make a lot of money are the most successful. Others say that
who contribute to society like scientists, the teacher is the most successful.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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7. Some people think that governments should ban dangerous sports, while others think people
should have freedom to do any sports or activity.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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8. Some people think that developing countries need financial help from international organizations.
Others think that it is practical aid and advice that is needed.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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9. Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think the
parents should be punished instead.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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10. Some people believe that women should play an equal role as men in a country’s police force or
military force, such as the army, while others think women are not suitable for these kinds of jobs.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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Topic 11: Some people are born to be leaders, while others believe leadership can be learnt.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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Topic 12: Many people say that exercise is key to health while others believe that a balanced diet is
more important.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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13: Some people say that the increasing business and cultural contact between countries is a
positive development, while others think that many countries will lose their national identities as a
result. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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 24

14: Some people believe government should spend money on building train and subway lines to
reduce traffic congestion. Others think that building more and wider roads is the better way to
reduce traffic congestion. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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15: Some people think that young people can learn useful skills by playing electronic and computer
games. Others argue that people who play electronic and computer games are wasting their time.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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16: In developing countries, children in rural communities have less access to education. Some
people believe that the problem can be solved by providing more schools and teachers, while others
think that the problem can be solved by providing computers and Internet access.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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17: Some believe that it is good for a country’s culture to import films and TV programmes, while
others think it is better for a country to have their own films and TV programmes.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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 28

18: Some people think international car-free days are an effective way of reducing air pollution;
however, others think there are some other ways.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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 29

19: 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 opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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20: Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as
food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their
own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that
affect them. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Write at least 250 words.
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