IELTS Writing Task 2

Opinion or Idea Essays.

IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2
 IELTS Writing Task 2
Before writing, identify the kind of task asked for:
OPINION or IDEAS?

Do you have to give your personal view, or to think of some

ideas on a topic?

Which type of OPINION or IDEAS task is it?

Then take a few minutes and make a plan with a few notes on
the topic. (5 minutes)
 IELTS Writing Task 2

1) Opinion Essays

Opinion>Personal Viewpoint = ‘agree or disagree’

Opinion>Discussion / Idea = ‘argumentative’

 IELTS Writing Task 2
1) Opinion: Personal Viewpoint Essays
There will be a statement and you will be asked to give your own
opinion about the statement. Examples:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this question.

It is better to save money than to spend it. How far do you agree with this
statement? Is saving more important than spending in today’s world?
Give reasons for your answer, and provide ideas and examples from your
own experience.

● What is your opinion?

● Do you agree or disagree?
● To what extent do you agree or disagree?
IELTS Writing Task 2
 IELTS Writing Task 2

1) Opinion: Personal Viewpoint Essays

Key tips:

● Choose one side of the argument.

● State your opinion clearly in the introduction paragraph.
● Keep the same opinion throughout the essay.
● Give reasons why you hold this view
 IELTS Writing Task 2
1) Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essays Structure

1) Introduction: 2 or 3 sentences. 40 - 60 3) Body paragraph 2: Topic sentence.

words. 3 - 5 minutes Explanation sentence. Example.

● Paraphrase the question ● Topic sentence – outline 2nd reason for

● Give your opinion supporting this view
● State two supporting reasons (opcitional) ● Explanation – explain this idea
● Example – give an example

2) Body paragraph 1: Topic sentence. 4) Conclusion: ONE or TWO sentences.

Explanation sentence. Example. Summarise the main points. State your
opinion
● Topic sentence – outline 1st reason for
supporting this view ● Summarise opinion and key reasons
● Explanation – explain this idea
● Example – give an example
 IELTS Writing Task 2

1) Opinion: Personal Viewpoint Essay Structure

Common Mistakes
These three errors are common in IELTS opinion essays.

● Not stating an opinion.

● Not Giving arguments for both views.(mention a NEGATIVE argument but in
a PRO of your answer)..
● Not supporting your opinion with clear reasons.

Result: Low score for TASK ACHIVEMENT.

 IELTS Writing Task 2

Planning an IELTS Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essay

1 Select your opinion.

2 List 2/3 supporting ideas/examples for your opinion.

3 Vocabulary - paraphrasing and/or using synonyms. a few

synonyms of key words save time while you are writing.
 IELTS Writing Task 2

Overview on Planning an IELTS Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essay

OPINION > PERSONALVIEWPOINT task.

These tasks typically say ‘X is a good thing. To what extent do you agree with this
statement?’ Again, the exact words will often vary (for example, it might say ‘M any people
support the suggestion of X. How far do you support this proposal?’) but the concept will
be the same.

In these OPINION > PERSONALVIEWPOINT tasks, you should state your personal viewpoint
at the beginning of the essay, and then explain why you have this opinion
 IELTS Writing Task 2
Model Essay: Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essay
You should spend about 40 minutes on this question.

It is better to save money than to spend it. How far do you agree with this
statement? Is saving more important than spending in today’s world? Give reasons
for your answer, and provide ideas and examples from your own experience.

You should write at least 250 words.

Explanation of the task This is an OPINION > PERSONALVIEWPOINT type task. It asks
you to say how much you agree with an idea. You should state your opinion at the start,
and then explain why you have this opinion, giving several logical reasons. You should
briefly mention the opposing view as well. The conclusion should be a summary of your
viewpoint. Note that this type of essay is different from the OPINION > DISCUSSION type.
 IELTS Writing Task 2
Model Essay: Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essay
With the world in such economic turmoil, many of us face difficult choices in managing our
money. Personally, I feel that saving is preferable to high spending, and I will explain why.

Firstly, saving money is a sensible precaution in a world where the future is uncertain. It is
possible, for example, that a person might meet unemployment, ill health or other crises at
some point in life. It is essential to have some funds in reserve for these situations, and
saving is for most people the only way to achieve this. Furthermore, I believe that saving is
itself a good discipline for people to develop, as it builds skills of planning and reaching
targets. We can see this in the way that disciplined people build up quite large sums through
small monthly contributions to savings plans. In many cases this meets important objectives
in their lives, including large purchases such as cars or property. Finally, we have to
remember the reasons for the current economic problems besetting the world. The crisis
was caused by excessive spending and insufficient saving – not just by individuals, but by
corporations and even governments themselves. I feel that an emphasis on sensible saving
should be a universal strategy now.
 IELTS Writing Task 2
Model Essay: Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essay
I do appreciate that some people think differently, saying that it is better to live for
the moment and spend accordingly. While some daily spending is essential, of
course, I feel this is a potentially unwise viewpoint, especially considering recent
global events.

To conclude, I believe that saving is the wiser course, not just for financial but
also for personal and political reasons. Sensible saving is an invaluable skill and
a buffer against uncertainty. (279 words)
 IELTS Writing Task 2
Model Essay: Opinion Personal Viewpoint Essay
Examiner’s comments:
This would be a Band 9 essay. It exceeds the minimum word count and is
organized in clear paragraphs. The writer introduces the topic briefly, and
then states his/her viewpoint in the introduction. There are then three clear
and logical reasons to justify the viewpoint, with some simple examples that
can be understood by anyone with a general awareness of the world. The
opposing view is mentioned briefly, and then rejected, so the essay is not
completely one-sided. The conclusion re-states the writer’s opinion and
summarizes without repeating details. The English is formal/academic, but
not complicated. The choice of words is academic (e.g. turmoil, insuf icient,
invaluable) but still clear. There are clear linking phrases to guide the reader
through the stages of the essay (e.g. firstly, finally, to conclude.
 IELTS Writing Task 2

2) Opinion Discussion Essays

Discuss both sides of an argument. Usually, you will be asked for your own opinion as well.

Choose one point of view to agree with and one side to disagree with.
IELTS Writing Task 2

2) Discussion Essays
 IELTS Writing Task 2

2) Discussion Essays

Key tips:

● Develop both sides of the argument.

● Talk about the view you don’t agree with, first.
It is easier to begin by discussing the opinion you don’t agree with and then present the
reasons for your opposing view.
 IELTS Writing Task 2
1) Introduction
2) Discussion Essays Structure
3) Main body paragraph 2 – Positive Viewpoint

● Paraphrase the question ● Topic sentence – outline the view you do

● State two supporting reasons (optional) agree with
● Explanation – explain why this view is held
by some people
● Example – give an example

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Negative Viewpoint 4) Conclusion

● Topic sentence – outline the view you don’t ● Summarise the key points and state your
agree with opinion
● Explanation – explain why this view is held
by some people
● Example – give an example
 IELTS Writing Task 2

2) Discussion Essays Structure

OPINION > DISCUSSION tasks, which typically say ‘Some people think
that X is a good thing, while other people disagree. Discuss both sides
and give your own view.’

Remember that the exact words used could be different (for example, it
might say ‘consider both aspects’ or similar) but the concept will be the
same.

In these OPINION > DISCUSSION tasks, you should write about each
side of the discussion, and finally give your opinion at the end of your
essay
 IELTS Writing Task 2

Example Task

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.
 IELTS Writing Task 2
Model Essay 1

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.
 IELTS Writing Task 2

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)
 IELTS Writing Task 2

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.)
 IELTS Writing Task 2

3) Problem Essays
Also called ‘causes and solutions’ or ‘problems and solutions’
essays
Key tips:

● Don’t list lots of causes and solutions.

● Choose just one or two and develop them fully.

● Be sure to link each problem/cause and its solution.

 IELTS Writing Task 2

3) Problem / Solution Essays

Key tips:

● List 2 or 3 causes/problems and solutions and lik them together.

● Explain them and give any relevant example..

● Be sure to link each problem/cause and its solution.

 IELTS Writing Task 2

3) Problem Essays
Examples of problem essays.
 IELTS Writing Task 2

3) Problem Essays
Essay Structure
1) Introduction 3) Main body paragraph 2 – Solution

● Paraphrase the question ● Topic sentence – state the solution

● State 1 key problem/cause and related ● Explanation – give detail explaining the
solution solution
● Example – give an example

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Problem or Cause 4) Conclusion

● Topic sentence – state the problem or ● Summarise the key points

cause
● Explanation – give detail explaining the
problem or cause
● Example – give an example
IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
 IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
Examiner’s comments:
This would receive a Band 9 score. The essay is clearly organized into
sections, within which there are linking words (e.g. a further problem,
Turning to, ultimately, overall) which signpost the ideas. The writer
describes three problems and then three solutions, using relevant
examples that do not rely on technical knowledge. The examples are
presented in a variety of ways (e.g. such as, ranging from/to.)The English
is fairly formal (e.g. potentially liable, consequences, initial shock) but
always modern and clear. The essay describes a controversial subject
without any bias or emotion, and no personal opinion is given.
 IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays

Many people today are worried about the large quantities of waste produced by ordinary
households. What problems are caused by household waste, and what solutions may be
possible in both the short and the long term?

Explanation of the Task This is an Ideas>Problems/solutions type Task. It is not asking

for your opinion, but for you to propose some ideas on this topic. You should introduce
the topic and essay, and describe two or three problems, then two or three solutions, and
then summarise. Note that the task asks for ‘both the short and the long term’ solutions,
so you must mention both of these. Also, the topic is only about household ( = domestic)
waste, not industrial waste; remember to check these smaller points in the instructions,
because in the exam it can be easy to miss them
 IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
It is inevitable that modern households will produce some waste, but the increasing
volumes of refuse over recent years present a challenge for us all. There seem to be two
main problems stemming from this situation, and also two steps we could take to
address it fully.

Possible the major problem is the huge question of how to collect, process and dispose
of this material. Household waste comprises elements ranging from foodstuffs to metal,
paper and plastics, and local authorities sometimes struggle to handle such a diverse
mix of material. The historical solution has been incineration or landfill, but the problems
of pollution and long-term ground 16 contamination which arise have led to widespread
efforts to recycle at least some of the waste. This leads us to the second concern, which
is the high cost of disposing of refuse in an ecologically sound manner. We would all
wish as much as possible of our rubbish to be recycled (for example by paper pulping or
reusing plastics) but the expense involved must be met by higher taxes and charges for
households
 IELTS Writing Task 2
3) Problem Essays
Regarding possible solutions, probably the most immediate short-term solution would be
to divert far more government funds into waste processing and recycling facilities at a
local level. This would reduce the environmental impact of the waste by reducing
pollution, and also lower our demand for raw materials, as more recycled products would
consequently be produced. A further, longer-term solution might be to raise the level of
public understanding for the need to consume less material in households, especially in
terms of packaging and wasted food. A campaign of education along these lines would
gradually lessen the volume of waste, especially if reinforced by incentives for
consuming less and penalties for excessive waste, as we see being trialled in the UK at
present.

Overall, the main problems are both environmental and financial. The possible solutions
involve more immediate investment in facilities, and also encouraging long-term changes
in household behaviour. (326 words
 IELTS Writing Task 2

4) Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

The first part of the question will be a statement. You will be asked to write about both the
advantages and disadvantages of the idea stated.

Here is some typical wording that might be used:

● What are the advantages and disadvantages of….?

● Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
● Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your opinion.

Synonyms of ‘advantages’ and ‘disadvantages’ cab aldo be used,

such as ‘benefits’ and ‘drawbacks’
 IELTS Writing Task 2

4) Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

Here are 3 examples of advantages and disadvantages essay questions:
 IELTS Writing Task 2

4) Advantages & Disadvantages Essays

Synonyms of ‘advantages’ and ‘disadvantages’ can also be used, such as
‘benefits’ and ‘drawbacks’

Example question:

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 well-
managed.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of tourism in the modern world?
Do you think that the benefits of tourism outweigh its drawbacks?
 IELTS Writing Task 2
4) Advantages & Disadvantages Essays
Essay Structure
1) Introduction 3) Main body paragraph 2 – Disadvantage

● Paraphrase the question ● Topic sentence – state 1 disadvantage

● Outline the view or views stated in the ● Explanation – give detail explaining the
statement disadvantage
● Example – give an example
● Result – state the result

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Advantage 4) Conclusion

● Topic sentence – state 1 advantage ● Summarise the key points

● Explanation – give detail explaining the
advantage
● Example – give an example
● Result – state the result
 IELTS Writing Task 2
4) Advantages & Disadvantages Essays
Example question
 IELTS Writing Task 2
4) Advantages & Disadvantages Essays
Example question
 IELTS Writing Task 2

5) Double Question Essays

Sometimes called a ‘direct question’ or ‘two questions’ essay

Key tips:

● You must answer both questions fully.

● Don’t confuse it with an opinion or a discussion essay.
● Be careful that you don’t end up with too many ideas to write about.
 IELTS Writing Task 2
5) Double Question Essays
3 examples of double question essay questions:
 IELTS Writing Task 2
5) Double Question Essays
Essay Structure

1) Introduction 3) Main body paragraph 2 – Answer question 2

● Paraphrase the question ● Topic sentence – state your answer

● Outline sentence – state your answer to ● Explanation – explain why you think this
both questions ● Example – give an example

2) Main body paragraph 1 – Answer question 1 4) Conclusion

● Topic sentence – state your answer ● Summarise both questions and answers
● Explanation – explain why you think this
● Example – give an example
 IELTS Writing Task 2
5) Double Question Essays
Essay Structure
IELTS Writing Task 2
5) Double Question Essays