Category
- Opinion Essay
- Example:
- Space Exploration is much too expensive, and the money should be spent on more important things. What is your opinion
- Example:
- Advantage and Disadvantage Essay
- Example:
- Some people believe that is better to take a gap year before going to university, while others think that this can be a waste of time and that going straight into higher education is the best option. Discuss both views and give your opinion
- Example:
- Problem Essay
- Example:
- Despite a large number of gyms, a sedentary lifestyle is gaining popularity in the contemporary world. What problems are associated with this? What solutions can you suggest?
- Example:
Understanding the Topic of the Essay
Three ways the essay can be presented in the exam
- Type 1: Two opposite views to discuss;
- Some people think that more money should be invested into space exploration as it is a vital form of investigation for the future of humanity, while others believe it is a waste of vital funding which could otherwise be used towards more important projects here on earth.
- Type 2: Two opposite views to discuss using the word should in the instruction
- Should more money be invested into space exploration or should it be used towards more important projects here on earth?
- Type 3: A statement to discuss
- Paying for space exploration is a waste of vital funding which could otherwise be used towards more important projects on earth.
Connecting words and set phrases
The structure of Paragraphs
- A sentence that introduces the topic or gist of the paragraph (and can link it to the previous paragraph)
- 2-3 sentences that develop the topic (with analysis, evidence or detail)
- 1 sentence that concludes the topic (or links it to the next paragraph).
Showing Balance in Essay
Always remain modest about opinion and show reader that you understand that you may be wrong just like anybody else.
For example, ”Students have a very low level of basic mathematical knowledge due to over-dependence on calculators” is not good, we should say “Over-dependence on calculators may have a negative effect on the basic mathematical knowledge of some students”
Use cautious language, also called hedging language.
Also remember, don’t use cautious language in an inappropriate way.
Being Specific enough
Don’t use thing in essay, be specific.
Link your sentence in IELTS Writing
- Therefore, additionally, consequently, firstly, secondly, finally, moreover, however, subsequently
- in order to, so as to
- such as, for example, for instance
- receive, acquire, obtain
- aid, assist, support
- Not only …, but also
Reference
- IELTS Writing Masterclass 8.5 - Marc Roche