The IELTS General or Academic Writing Task 2 requires you to write an essay of 250 words (minimum) on a topic, where you present your arguments in the format outlined in the instructions. The task should take you approximately 40.
Phew! Wasn’t that a little complex to understand? Let us simplify it for you! To improve your vocabulary for IELTS writing task 2to achieve a band 8 score; you need to follow some basic steps covered in the articles below.
Expect abstract topics with no right or wrong answers. Everything is subjective. Also, note that Task 2 has more weightage than Task 1 in the IELTS Writing test. Therefore, it is worth spending some time and energy improving your vocabulary to present your arguments concisely and in a compelling manner. We give you some of the top tips for acing the task and achieving the band 8 score!
You can expect the following kinds of questions in this task:
Discussing both sides of any argument.
Giving a reason for a problem and why it exists.
Discussing advantages and disadvantages of something or the pros and cons.
Form an opinion on any issue.
Examples of Questions for IELTS Writing Task 2
Here are some question samples that you can take note of.
Question 1-
With the internet taking over every sphere of our lives, from shopping to communication, the risks of fraud and data theft are also increasing exponentially. How far do you agree?
Question 2-
Many slum-dwellers often return to their original locations after getting allotted government housing units while putting the latter on rent. What are the causes of this according to you? What are the solutions that you will suggest in this regard?
Question 3-
Many people think that the personal grooming of children is the responsibility of teachers, while some feel that it is the responsibility of parents. Discuss both sides of this argument and give your own opinion.
How to Tackle Complex Questions
The topics may often seem a little complex, and you may feel anxious about completing them within 40 minutes. Yet, working on your vocabulary and structure will help you quickly grasp the concept and start.
Plan the essay that you are writing in Task 2. Here are the components that you need to keep in mind.
Introduction
This paragraph will talk about the content of your essay, informing the examiner about the core aspect that you will discuss. A good introduction helps in clearly outlining your views at the outset. Here are some words or phrases that will help you start in style!
In my opinion
I disagree
I agree
Based on my understanding of the situation
I believe that
I feel that
I think that
I understand that
Based on my perspective
My standpoint is that
I strongly believe
I strongly disagree
It seems that
It appears that
It may appear that
It may seem that
There are many other ways to start your essay on a compelling note. These are only a few illustrative examples.
Body of the Essay (Argument)
It is the main section, and it should be subdivided into two to three paragraphs. The body should talk about your view, justifying it with arguments and examples and the final explanation. Here are some more phrases that will help you state your case in this section.
Firstly (Secondly, Thirdly, etc.)
Let me begin by stating
To start/begin with
It is commonly perceived/believed
My first argument is that
In the first place
I would like to begin
Second Paragraph of the Body
The second paragraph should support the earlier argument or present a different side to the issue. It all depends on your question. Here are some phrases and words that you can use.
This paragraph will summarize your viewpoint and end crisply in a manner that impresses the examiner. Here are some words that you can use:
I wish to conclude by stating
I want to conclude by saying
I conclude by saying that
In conclusion
To sign off
Signing off
Summarizing
To summarize
I want to close this argument
I would like to close this argument
Finally
Eventually
Overall
It may seem
I conclude
Summing up
To sum up
Becoming a Vocabulary Champion- Here’s How!
Mastering your vocabulary for IELTS writing task 2 band 8score is not rocket science! While the above words and phrases will get you started, here are some more tips that you can use.
Read your question carefully. Do not make the common mistake of assuming the instructions. There may be twists in the tale so check and double-check!
Keep an academic perspective at the forefront while making your argument. Avoid excessively opinionated or passionate phrases as I hate,I cannot stand it, and so on. It will only give an amateurish touch to the proceedings.
Do not write in one mega-sized paragraph! Always divide every section into multiple paragraphs. Have a clear essay structure in mind while writing.
Avoid repeating your argument again and again. Try and come up with a new angle to the story or an example instead.
Take a few minutes to plan your essay before you begin writing. It will certainly help you finish faster and with zero stoppages or hesitation along the way!
Finish your essay with a proper conclusion. Even when time is running out, write at least two to three concluding sentences.
Do not use any slang or language that is very complicated. Do not leave sentences hanging in mid-air. Try and squeeze out some time for a quick read before you submit.
Core Takeaways
The bottom line is that vocabulary and language skills make the difference between average essays and great pieces of writing. Practising new words, reading English books and magazines, and taking practice essay tests are the best ways to accomplish this in the preparatory phase.
Get to know about the latest updates on the IELTS Exam, Eligibility, Preparation Tips, Test procedure, Exam Pattern, Syllabus, Registration Process, Important Exam Dates, and much more!! This guide is a one-stop solution for every IELTS Aspirant who aims to crack the exam with an impressive band score.
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I get 8 Bands in IELTS writing Task 2?
It is not easy to get 8 band scores in IELTS writing test 2. You should practice as much as you can in writing your sample essays before the actual test. You should always practice writing answers which are completely relevant to the question that has been given. Answer all the components of the question and read carefully to identify these components. You should logically arrange your essay. Make sure that you use proper linking phrases and there is a logical flow of content from one paragraph to another. Organize the essay into neat paragraphs to state your points. Check spelling and grammar carefully, avoid errors and make use of good vocabulary to demonstrate your command over the English language.
How can I improve my vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2?
It is essential to enhance your vocabulary for the IELTS Writing Task 2. You should take simple steps like finding words that you were not aware of earlier and practicing them thoroughly. Use your own flash cards for remembering words and watch English television shows, news shows, podcasts and videos to pick up new words and phrases. Keep reading newspapers on a regular basis and browse through dictionaries for picking up new words as well.
Does vocabulary matters in IELTS Exam?
Yes, vocabulary is a crucial aspect while you are giving your IELTS examination. It matters mainly in the Writing and Reading modules. In the latter, there are three passages with a total of 40 questions. The language that is there in the passages is only understandable if you have a good vocabulary. Vocabulary will determine up to 25-30% of your overall score in IELTS and is also vital in the Listening section when you answer the questions. What you write in your essay is also indicative of your command over the language.
What are some strong vocabulary words?
There are many strong words that you can use as part of your vocabulary. These include words like dubious, serendipity, toothsome, bibliophile, susurration and onomatopoeia among others. You can also use other words that will find in the dictionary. The trick is to keep browsing for new words that you do not know, in the dictionary and other sources. Keep writing these down with their short meanings for them to be absorbed into your memory.
How much vocab is enough for IELTS Writing Task 2 to Get 8 Bands?
For Writing Task 2, in order to get an 8-band score, vocabulary does matter a lot. However, the number of words that you should learn is something that is really hard to predict. You have to keep increasing your knowledge of newer words and phrases while appearing for the examination. In fact, if you are preparing for the IELTS examination, you should aim for around 6-7,000 families of words as per several studies and research reports. This will enable better familiarity with a native English environment as per these researchers. The key is to get started as early as you can.
Study Master Programs in USA
MS in Data Analytics and Visualization in USA
Dual certification - IIITB as well as Yeshiva University. End-to-end support for applications and visa.