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Score Band 8 In Your IELTS Writing Task 2 With These 5 Tips

The International English Language Testing System or IELTS, is an international standardised exam to test a non-native English speaker’s English language proficiency. This testing system was established in 1989 and is managed by the British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia, and Cambridge Assessment English.

People who aspire to study abroad or migrate to countries where English is the dominant means of communication must enrol in a Singapore IELTS course and ace the exam. This exam will help non-native English speakers overcome the linguistic gap in a foreign country. While IELTS is not compulsory in all English-speaking countries, taking the exam increases your chances of getting a VISA grant, especially if you’re planning to study or migrate to the United Kingdom, the United States, Australia, and Canada.

One of the most challenging parts of the IELTS exam is Writing Task 2, which is the second part of the writing test, wherein you will be tasked to write an essay in response to the point of view, problem, or argument presented in the exam. It’s important to note that the Writing Task 2 essay must be answered in a formal style and completed in under 40 minutes. Therefore, you need to prepare for it well.

Here are some tips to help you ace the Writing Task 2 essay:

1. Make sure your answers are relevant to the questions.

Read each question carefully to know what is being asked. Make it a point to be as specific as possible to present your answers clearly to the examiner. See to it that the ideas you present are directly related to the question, including the examples you illustrate. Also, include ideas that will support the question to make it clear to the examiner that you understand the question 100%.

2. Provide an answer for each part of the question.

Again, it’s imperative that you read the questions carefully to know how many parts are in it and to be able to answer everything to achieve a band 6 or higher. It’s also essential that you are able to present a clear position when answering to show the examiner that you genuinely understand what is being asked.

When asked to present both views, make it a point to present each viewpoint equally and precisely. Also, watch out for plurals, as this will mean that you need to present at least two views. As much as possible, try to write more than the minimum 250 words!

3. Use linking phrases to present your essay answers logically and with clear progression.

Use different linking words or phrases to state your opinion (but don’t overuse them). Start with an introduction to express your ideas clearly and state your opinion at the beginning of the essay. Then, move through the conclusion. This is the logical way to present ideas.

Aside from that, it would help if you also used adverbial phrases, substitutions, and punctuation marks to make your essay as coherent as possible. Reread your answers to ensure they are sequenced correctly and that your ideas are easy to follow. Additionally, familiarise yourself with crucial English grammar rules to ensure that you can obtain the highest possible score.

4. Use unique terms and spell them correctly.

Band 8 writers use uncommon vocabulary and idiomatic language or phrasal verbs. However, it’s imperative that you understand the meaning of the phrasal verbs and the lesser common words you are going to use to ensure that you’re using them correctly. Also, double-check the spelling, especially for the words that are not commonly used. Don’t mix up British and American English spelling. Choose one and use it throughout your essay. Moreover, don’t use slang words!

5. Practice planning your essay.

Most teachers allow at least 10 minutes to plan your answers. This should be enough time to plan both the primary and supporting points and organise your thoughts. This is why it would help to practice at home. Take note of how much time it really takes to come up with a concrete answer for your essay.

Conclusion

The IELTS Writing Task 2 essay isn’t hard if you prepare for it well. Remember to practice answering essays and presenting your ideas at home to ensure that you have the highest chance of obtaining a Band 8 or higher. Also, read the questions carefully and double-check your answers to minimise mistakes!

English Explorer is an institution for English language learning in Singapore that can help non-native English speakers perfect their English language skills. We offer some of the best Singapore IELTS preparation classes, ensuring that we can help you pass the exams with flying colours. Contact us today for more details!

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