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IELTS Writing Task 2: How To Write an Effective Introduction
Ielts writing task 2 introduction.
Did you know that a strong introduction can make the difference between a Band 6 and a Band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2?
In the video above, I’ll show you how to write a Band 8 introduction and avoid the 7 biggest mistakes most people make when they introduce their essays.
This post will help you write better introductions in your Task 2 IELTS essays and show the specific sentences I advise all of my students to use when writing IELTS Writing Task 2 introductions.
The introduction is the first part of the essay the examiner will read, and it will give them a good first impression of what to expect in the rest of the essay.
Just like in person, first impressions last.
I often tell my students that a bad introduction in IELTS writing part 2 is the same as going in to the speaking exam and being rude to the examiner- no matter how good you are in the rest of it, the examiner won’t be happy, and unhappy examiners are more likely to give you a lower mark.
Despite this warning, many good students go on to produce introductions with a few common problems in them.
Common Problems
- Talking too generally about the topic.
Most of these essays start off with ‘Nowadays……’ or ‘In modern life….’ followed by general information about the topic. In my opinion, this is the worst start you can possibly make. Remember that you are supposed to answer the question, not write generally about the topic.
- Not giving your opinion
This is the most important sentence in the essay. Not including this will lose you marks in several different ways.
- Not supporting your opinion with main ideas
If you don’t do this, the examiner doesn’t really know what you think about the question. This will also lose you marks. I’ll show you how to write an outline sentence below.
- Trying to write a ‘hook’ or be entertaining
Remember, this is an IELTS exam, not a university essay. There are no extra points for being interesting; in fact, being boring will probably help you. This will help you avoid ‘flowery’ language.
- Using an informal style
Know your audience. You are expected to write in an academic style.
Good and Bad Examples
Question: There is a good deal of evidence that increasing car use is contributing to global warming and having other undesirable effects on people’s health and well-being.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Good Introduction
Rising global temperatures and human health and fitness issues are often viewed as being caused by the expanding use of automobiles. This essay agrees that the increasing use of motor vehicles contributes to rising global temperatures because of the production of greenhouse gases by vehicles and certain health issues are caused by the release of toxic chemicals by internal combustion engines.
Bad Introduction
Nowadays, cars are a very popular way of getting around. Day by day many more people drive cars around but others feel that they cause global warming. Global warming is one of the most serious issues in modern life. They also affect people’s health and well-being which is also a serious issue.
As you can see, the bad example generally talks about the topic, copies words and phrases from the question, and doesn’t include a thesis statement or outline statement.
If your introductions look something like this, don’t worry. Most of my students write introductions a lot like this when they first start in my class and the structure below always helps them fix any problems and write very effective introductions.
Structure of a Good Introduction
If you use this structure, you will not only score higher marks but also save time in the exam. If you practice enough, introductions will become easy, and you will do them in just a few minutes. This will leave you lots of time to focus on the main body paragraphs, where you can pick up lots of marks.
An IELTS writing task 2 opinion essay should have three elements, and these should be:
- Paraphrase question
- Give opinion
- Support opinion with 2 ideas
That’s it. Simple!
Do you need me to correct your essays and give you feedback on them? Check out our essay correction service or email me at [email protected].
About Christopher Pell
My name is Christopher Pell and I'm the Managing Director of IELTS Advantage.
I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.
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IELTS Writing Task 2: How to write a good introduction
Introductions are an important part of a Writing Task 2 essay. They let your examiner know what to expect from your essay. That’s why we have put together a quick list of tips you can use to write an effective introduction for Writing Task 2.
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An introduction is important to the essay because it creates an initial impression in terms of the quality of your writing. A clear, well-organised and relevant introduction will most certainly create a positive first impression on the examiner. So, what makes up an effective introduction? Let’s take a look.
Tip 1: Stop to read and analyse the question
In Writing Task 2, you need to address all the parts of the question or task in a relevant way. Because your introduction is the first step towards achieving this goal, you need to introduce your answer to all the different parts of the question. This is why it is important to take some time to read and analyse the task before you start writing, so you know exactly what you are being asked to write about.
Tip 2: Begin with a general statement and then focus in on the details of the question
Writing Task 2 questions usually begin with a general statement before focusing in on more specific points or questions about the topic. Using a similar model in your own introduction is a great way to start your essay, but make sure that your general statement is clearly related to your topic and is not too broad.
Tip 3: Use your own words
While it is perfectly acceptable for you to use the task as a guide for your introduction, make sure you do not copy material from the task.
Copying the task word-for-word shows the examiner that you have a limited range of language, which can affect your band score. Instead, change the order of the information, use synonyms, and explain more complex ideas in your own words.
It is also important not to use a memorised introduction where you insert words related to the question topic. Examiners read thousands of responses so can recognise memorised scripts.
Tip 4: State your position
In Writing Task 2, you will need to develop a position while exploring the different parts of the task. It is then important that you clearly state your position in your introduction.
Tip 5: Explain how you plan to develop your essay
Even though this strategy can be considered as optional, briefly explaining how you plan to develop the topic can help you better organise your writing. It is also a good way to let the examiner know what you’ll be covering in the essay.
Review your introduction
Don’t forget to re-read your introduction once you’ve finished writing your essay. It is common for test takers to begin their essays thinking about a specific argument, or a specific way to organise their writing but change their minds as they develop the topic. So, after completing your Writing Task 2, make sure that your final draft still matches your introduction.
Now that we have gone over some important strategies for writing a good introduction for Writing Task 2, it’s time to look at a sample introduction. Start by reading and analysing the prompt, as mentioned in tip 1. Then, carefully read the sample introduction and notice the different strategies used, which have been highlighted for you.
Sample question
The threat of nuclear weapons maintains world peace. Nuclear power provides cheap and clean energy.
The benefits of nuclear technology far outweigh the disadvantages.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Sample introduction
General Statement:
Nuclear technology has been around for many years.
Details:
Whether this technology is used for weapons of mass destruction or as a source of energy, many are of the belief that the use of nuclear energy has more advantages than disadvantages.
Position:
In my opinion, nuclear technology can indeed be a very efficient energy source. However, nuclear weapons possess such enormous destructive power that any benefits that this technology may offer to humankind are not enough to counter its potential devastating effects.
Plan:
This essay will address why the drawbacks of nuclear technology outweigh the benefits and will include relevant examples to support this position.
Just as an effective introduction will let the examiner know what they can expect from your essay, a good conclusion will remind them of the main points presented and will summarise what you want your examiner to remember from your writing. Check our blog for our post on strategies for writing a good conclusion!
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IELTS Writing Task 2: Free Tips, Lessons & Model Essays
Success in IELTS writing task 2 is based on using the right techniques. These free tips, model essays, lessons, videos and information will help develop the skills for writing task 2. This page will teach you how to maximise your IELTS writing task 2 score. All lessons are on this page are for both GT and Academic writing task 2.
On this page, you will find for free:
- IELTS WRITING TASK 2 TEST INFORMATION
- PRACTICE ESSAY QUESTIONS
- ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR IELTS ESSAYS
- MODEL ESSAYS
- PRACTICE LESSONS (writing skills, topic ideas etc)
1. IELTS Writing Task 2 Test Information
Learn about your IELTS writing task 2 test. All lessons and tips on this page are for both Academic and GT writing task 2.
- IELTS Writing has two tasks: Task 1 (a report) and Task 2 (an essay).
- The total time is one hour for both tasks. You should spend only 40 mins on task 2.
- The time is yourself to manage. No one will tell you when to move from task 1 to task 2.
- The essay if a formal essay. You should not use informal language in your essay.
- The instructions say “write at least 250 words”. This means you need to write over 250 words.
- Writing task 2 is worth about 66% of your total writing score. Click here: Total Writing Score Calculations
- There are four marking criteria: WRITING T2 BAND SCORES & MARKING WITH TIPS. Make sure you learn all about how your essay is scored.
The Essay Task
Below is an example task you will be given in IELTS Writing Task 2.
- You will be given a topic.
- Topics contain specific issues or opinions that you must address.
- You are given a task, such as to discuss and give an opinion.
- Examples are based on your experience of the world in general, not your personal life.
- There are FIVE ESSAY TYPES .
2. IELTS Practice Essay Questions
Practice essay questions to help you prepare ideas for topics in IELTS writing task 2. These questions have been written based on questions reported by IELTS students.
Over 100 IELTS Essay Questions (repeated topics)
3. Essential IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips
The most important writing tips for a strong IELTS essay in writing task 2. Learn about the recommended essay length, how to plan your essay, when to give your opinion and how to write an introduction etc. Some videos linked below are old, but still 100% relevant today. Click below:
Essay Structure & Paragraphing
Key Linking Words List
Types of IELTS Essays
Essay Planning Tips
Paraphrasing Tips & Examples
Common Essay Topics
When & How to give your opinion
Video Using the last 5 minutes
4. IELTS Model Essays
IELTS Essays have a specific format, structure, style and band score requirements. These model essays are at band 9 and illustrate how an IELTS writing task 2 essay should be written. Use them as a guide to creating an essay suitable for a high band score in IELTS. Remember, language only counts for about 50% of your marks, the rest is IELTS essay techniques.
- Agree Disagree Opinion Essay: Health
- Advantages & Disadvantages Essay: Language
- Cause Solution Essay: Crime & Punishment
- Direct Questions Essay: Happiness
- Opinion Essay: Social Media
- Discussion Essay: Work
- Do Advs Outweigh Disavs Essay: Reading
- Direct Questions Essay: Family
- Direct Questions Essay: Art
- Positive or Negative Development: Social Media
- 2 Model Essays about Economy & Money /Buildings
- Model Essay & Question for Topic of Education
- Two Question Essay: Technology
- IELTS ESSAY TOPICS FOR 2024
More Writing Task 2 Tips
- Ideas for Topics Tips with Band Score Info
- Deleting Words in your Essay
- Should I indent the first word of my paragraphs?
- 10 sentences to avoid in your IELTS essay
- Video: How to add examples to your essay
- Tips: Under Words Penalty
- Can you use quotes, idioms or proverbs in your essay?
- Handwriting: Using cursive writing or not
- Video : Grammar – How to Add a Clause
- Video : Grammar – Connecting Sentences
5. Practice Lessons for Writing Task 2
Various lessons for: IELTS Essay Writing Skills, Topics, Language
- Improving Sentences for a Higher Score
- Essay Ideas: Advertising to Children in Schools
- Essay Topics for 2024
- IELTS Essay Topics Prediction 2022
- Grammar Test : Using “the” with countries and nationalities
- Paraphrasing Practice
- Using Passive Voice for Giving Opinions
- Essay Ideas: Employment Competition
- Essay Ideas: The Importance of History
- Essay Ideas: Housing & Trees
- Essay Ideas: International Aid
- Essay Ideas: City Transport
- Essay Ideas: Salaries
- Essay Ideas: Function of Schools
- Essay Ideas: Female Staff in Senior Positions
- Writing Skills: Punctuation Practice
- Writing Skills: Linking Word Practice
- Essay Ideas: Littering in Cities
- Listen and Write Dictation: Natural Disasters
- Discussion Essay with Feedback: Music Topic
- Writing Skills: Improving Sentences: Ebooks Topic
- Essay Ideas: Banning Mobile Phones
- Two Question Essay with Feedback: Judging Business Success
- Essay Ideas: Tourism and Local Communities
- Essay Ideas: Traffic & Pollution
- Writing Skills: Improving a Thesis Statement
- Writing Skills: Improving Sentences (1)
- Essay Ideas: Handwriting Skills
- Essay Ideas: Older or Younger Leaders
- Writing Skills: Introduction Feedback
- Writing Skill: Opinion Essay Introduction Feedback
- Writing Skills: Opinion Essay Body Paragraphs
- Writing Skills: Opinion Essay Introduction
- Writing Skills: Opinion Essay Finding Main Points
- Writing Skills: Thesis Statement
- Essay Ideas: Public Services .
………………
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How to Write a Great Introduction in IELTS Task 2 Essay: A Comprehensive Guide
Greetings, future IELTS conquerors! 🎉 If you're here, it's probably because you're grappling with the IELTS Task 2 Essay and, more specifically, that all-important introduction. Don't worry; we've got your back. Let's delve deep into this critical aspect of IELTS writing so that you can kick off your essay on a high note.
To make this as real as possible, we're using a sample question from a past IELTS exam. The question reads: "Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
IELTS Task 2 Essay Introduction: Why is this Important?
If you're eyeing a high band score, it’s crucial to understand the undeniable importance of a compelling introduction in your IELTS Task 2 Essay. Think of the introduction as your initial handshake with the examiner—it's your first impression, and we all know how lasting first impressions can be.
Setting the Stage for Success
Let's begin by setting the stage for what the introduction means in the context of the IELTS writing test. You're essentially setting the tone for your whole essay. Fail to engage the reader here, and you risk losing their attention for the remainder of your argument, affecting your overall band score.
Your Elevator Pitch to the Examiner
Picture this: you get into an elevator with a renowned IELTS examiner. You have merely 30 seconds to convince them why your viewpoint on the topic is worth their attention. Your introduction is that 30-second elevator pitch. It's short but powerful, capturing the essence of what's to come.
The Traffic Light Analogy
Let's consider another analogy: a traffic light. Your introduction serves as the green light that signals the reader to proceed into the depths of your essay. A confusing or dull introduction acts like a red or yellow light, making the examiner pause or even reconsider delving into the rest of your essay.
Mastering Your Introduction with IELTS Luminary
Writing a captivating introduction isn't just about following a set formula; it's an art. Luckily, it's an art you can learn. If you're struggling with constructing strong introductions, you might find incredible value in our IELTS eBooks . These resources offer comprehensive strategies for each section of the IELTS exam, including detailed tips on mastering the art of the introduction.
But, what if you've already drafted an essay and are uncertain about its quality? No worries, our IELTS Essay Correction Service is here to save the day. An experienced examiner will provide you personalized, detailed insights into your writing, including how to enhance your introductions. It's like having a personal IELTS coach who not only points out your mistakes but guides you on how to fix them.
The Ingredients of a Band 9 Introduction
Now, what goes into a stellar IELTS Task 2 Essay introduction? Three critical components:
Hook: A sentence to grab the reader's attention
Background Information: A brief context about the topic
Thesis Statement: Your main argument or opinion on the issue
Why These Three Components?
Firstly, let's demystify why thes e three components are like the Holy Trinity of your introduction. Your "Hook" works like a magnet, pu lling the reader into your essay. The "Background Information" acts as a bridge, leading the reader from your hook to your thesis statement. Finally, your "Thesis Statement" is the crown jewel, summarizing your entire essay in a nutshell. It's like a mini-roadmap of what's to come.
1.1. Crafting the Perfect Hook
Ah, the hook—the golden key that unlocks reader engagement in your IELTS Task 2 essay. It's your debut act, your brief moment to make a memorable first impression. But why does it matter so much? Well, the hook is a pivotal engagement tool that can lure the reader into your argument. It's what compels the evaluator or any reader to shift from passive reading to active engagement. If done correctly, it makes the reader think, "Wow, I need to read more about this!"
Now, when you're writing your hook, you might have a lot of questions. What type of hook is best suited for an IELTS essay? How can it align with my thesis statement? These questions are perfectly addressed in our IELTS preparation eBooks , which provide specific examples and techniques for mastering the art of the hook.
1.2. What Makes a Question an Effective Hook?
In your example, you used a particularly interesting hook: "Does unpaid community service turn high school students into responsible citizens, or is it just free labor?" This question is ingenious for several reasons. First, it's provocative; it challenges the reader's pre-existing beliefs about unpaid community service. Second, it's open-ended, encouraging the reader to ponder and question their own stance on the issue. These attributes make the reader eager to explore the perspectives you'll unfold in the subsequent paragraphs.
If you're uncertain about how well your hook aligns with the rest of your essay, our IELTS Essay Correction Service can be a lifesaver. A seasoned examiner reviews your essay and gives you detailed feedback on how effective your hook is, among other elements.
1.3. The Role of a Hook in the Bigger Picture
While a hook is your opening act, it should never be disconnected from your main argument. It needs to be a natural prelude to the background information and thesis statement that follow. Think of your hook as the first step in a journey—you capture attention with the hook and then guide your reader down the path of understanding why your argument holds water.
Remember, a hook isn't just about being flashy; it's about being relevant and setting the stage for a compelling argument. When done right, it enhances the overall coherence and effectiveness of your IELTS Task 2 essay. And if you want to see how a complete, high-scoring essay looks like from start to finish, don't hesitate to check out our comprehensive eBooks or get detailed feedback through our Essay Correction Service .
2.1. Providing the Must-Know Background Information
So, you've successfully managed to engage your reader with a gripping hook. The next logical step is to seamlessly transition into the background information. Think of this as the foundation upon which your entire argument will stand. Without context, even the most compelling hook becomes an isolated gimmick. In essence, you're telling your reader, "Great, now that I've piqued your interest, let's dig deeper into why you should care about this topic."
For instance, in your sentence—"The debate surrounding unpaid community service as part of high school curriculums has ignited passionate discussions about educational priorities"—you've managed to encapsulate the essence of the ongoing discourse. You highlight that this isn't just a fringe topic, but one that's at the forefront of educational debates. The term "passionate discussions" indicates that there's no universal agreement, making your forthcoming argument all the more vital.
Here's a subtle tip: When crafting this section, try to present both sides of the argument briefly. This strategy not only enhances your essay's comprehensiveness but also shows you've done your homework. If you're wondering how to integrate conflicting perspectives in your essay without compromising your argument, our IELTS preparation eBooks offer some advanced techniques for this.
2.2. The Role of Background Information in Scoring High
IELTS examiners don't just want to see that you can argue a point. They want to see that you understand the larger context, that you can connect the dots. This makes your essay not just a collection of personal opinions but a well-thought-out piece that aligns with broader educational or societal issues. It's what takes your essay from a Band 6 to a Band 8 or 9. And if you're skeptical about how well you've provided background information, our Essay Correction Service can give you an examiner's perspective, evaluating the strength and relevance of your contextual setup.
3. Writing an Effective Thesis Statement: Your Answer in Brief
The thesis statement is more than just a sentence; it's the backbone of your entire essay. This is the pivotal moment where you give your reader a crystal-clear snapshot of your stance. At this juncture, ambiguity is your enemy. What you aim for is razor-sharp clarity, eliminating any room for misinterpretation. For instance, your example—"I firmly believe that integrating unpaid community service into high school curriculums can foster social responsibility among students"—is a textbook case of an impactful thesis. It does more than simply state an opinion; it conveys conviction through the words "firmly believe."
But why is conviction so important? In the IELTS Task 2 landscape, a wishy-washy thesis statement can drastically undermine the potency of your argument. A strong thesis, however, does the opposite. It solidifies your viewpoint, providing a sturdy framework for the supporting paragraphs that follow. To put it another way, it's the anchor that keeps your essay from drifting into a sea of vagueness.
By using the phrase "foster social responsibility among students," you're also subtly highlighting the essay's central theme. You're not just talking about unpaid community service; you're talking about its capacity to instill social responsibility—a skill vital for the growth of the individual and the community.
Now, you might be wondering, "How do I know if my thesis statement is strong enough?" Well, that's something our Essay Correction Service is perfectly suited for. Our team of examiners can provide in-depth feedback on the effectiveness of your thesis statement, along with suggestions for improvement. And if you're looking to get a deeper understanding of constructing powerful thesis statements, our eBooks are packed with strategies and examples that can guide you.
Example Introduction of a Band 9 IELTS Essay
Based on our discussion of essential components like the hook, background information, and a robust thesis statement, here's how a high-standard introduction might look:
"Does unpaid community service in high schools serve as a stepping stone to responsible adulthood, or is it simply a form of free labor? This contentious issue has sparked numerous debates about the very essence of education and social development. I strongly assert that incorporating unpaid community service into high school curriculums is not merely a social obligation but a fundamental aspect of cultivating socially responsible citizens."
This introduction effectively grabs the examiner's attention with a thought-provoking hook, provides essential background information, and concludes with a compelling thesis statement. It's designed to set the stage for a persuasive essay, guiding the reader seamlessly into the ensuing arguments.
Wrapping Up the Discussion
Now, if you're wondering how to blend all these elements into a compelling narrative, we’ve got something special for you. Our IELTS eBooks cover these topics and much more, providing practical tips and exercises to fine-tune your writing skills.
Feeling a bit shaky about your essay? Why not get it reviewed by an expert? Our IELTS Essay Correction Service provides invaluable personalized feedback, right down to the nitty-gritty details of crafting the perfect introduction.
So there it is: your foolproof guide to constructing a Band 9 introduction for your IELTS Task 2 Essay. With a riveting hook, relevant background information, and a clear thesis statement, you’re setting yourself up for a top-notch essay and, ultimately, a higher band score. Keep tuning in for more actionable IELTS tips and strategies.
Ready to ace that IELTS exam? We bet you are! Keep practicing and see you in our next deep-dive!
IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Write the Introduction Paragraph
Updated: Apr 7
There are many ways to write an introduction paragraph but a simple and tested technique is the following:
1. Paraphrase the question (use synonyms/ different parts of speech/ different word order etc.).
2. For questions which ask for your opinion - give your opinion.
3. Outline your 2/ 3 main ideas (which will be in body paragraphs 1 & 2).
Let’s look at an IELTS Writing Task 2 question and use this format to write the introduction paragraph:
Some people argue that we are born with a fixed personality while others argue that we develop our personality because of our experiences.
What do you think is the most important factor?
1. Paraphrase the IELTS Question
A. use the passive:.
One of the best ways to begin is to change the active “some people believe” to the passive, “it is believed by some people” or vice-versa.
b. Use a similar, but different verb:
Verbs such as “argue”, “believe”, or “think” are interchangeable in this context. So, if the question says, “Some people believe ”, you can write “It is argued by some people”, or just, “ It is often argued ”.
c. Use synonyms
In the rest of the sentence, look for synonyms which can replace words in the question. For example, “fixed” becomes “determined” , “develop” becomes “forms” , “personality” becomes “character” , and “because” becomes “due to” .
d. Change parts of speech or word order
You can also change parts of speech, word order or grammatical structure. For example, we develop our personality… becomes the development of our personality…
2. Give Your Opinion (usually required)
A. completely agree/ disagree with one side.
Most IELTS questions ask for your opinion. The easiest way to write an IELTS essay that asks for your opinion is to completely agree (or disagree) with one side. In this case you can use one of the following phrases in your introduction:
I totally agree…
I completely agree…
I strongly believe...
I firmly believe...
For example:
I strongly believe that our personalities are decided by our upbringing and the events in our lives.
I firmly believe that we are born with our characters and they are not changed by circumstances.
If you are not so good at writing, this is a good way to write the essay because your opinion will be very clear (which is important for band 7 and higher for Task Response in IELTS Writing Task 2).
b. Partially agree with both sides
However, if you want to say that you partially agree with more than one side, you can use the following phrases:
I somewhat agree…
I partially agree…
I somewhat agree that we are born with innate characteristics. However, I also think that our upbringing affects how our personalities develop.
If you use this approach, make sure that you write in a very clear way. Often this approach causes problems because the examiner becomes confused about what the writer's opinion is. Make sure that you show that you partially agree with both sides in the introduction and conclusion. Be consistent.
c. Argue both sides, but support one side more
An advanced approach that works for both questions that ask for your opinion, and questions which ask you to discuss both sides, is to argue both sides, but support one side more.
You can do this by using a contrast adverb (or adverbial phrase) such as while , although , and however .
In my opinion, while genetics do play an important role, what happens in our lives is the most important factor in the development of our personalities.
Although we are born with some fixed characteristics, our upbringing is a more important factor in how our personality develops.
Using this approach, you can give both sides of the argument, but show that you support one side more by saying that it is more important. This is the most advanced approach.
3. Outline your 2/ 3 main ideas
At this point you already need to know the 2 or 3 main ideas in your essay. For the essay above I have chosen the following:
Main Idea 1: Genetics create a starting point for our personalities.
Main Idea 2: But experiences have a bigger impact on how our personality develops.
As you can see I am taking an advanced approach and showing I partially agree with both arguments. So, to outline these main ideas, I could write:
"While genetics do play an important role, it is what happens in our lives, particularly in our childhoods, that is the most important factor in the development of our personalities."
Putting it all together
If we put this all together we have the following introduction:
"It is believed by some people that personality is determined at birth, but others think that our character is formed due to the experiences we have. In my opinion, while genetics do play an important role, it is what happens in our lives, particularly in our childhoods, that is the most important factor in the development of our personalities."
To read my whole model answer for this essay look here: IELTS Writing Task 2: 8. Personality (fastforwardielts.com)
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IELTS Writing Task 2: Tips to Write an Effective Introduction
Updated On Oct 07, 2022
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- Have you ever felt challenging to write an essay in IELTS Writing task 2?
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Many IELTS test candidates devote a lot of effort to practising their essay writing. The main goal of the IELTS writing module is to evaluate the test-takers’ writing abilities. Particularly taking into account the elements of vocabulary, grammar, spelling, and the capacity for writing. Success in the IELTS writing test relies heavily on essay writing.
Have you ever felt challenging to write an essay in IELTS Writing task 2?
All IELTS learners (even IELTS teachers) reckon that the most difficult part of writing is how to get started. Getting started, or writing an introductory paragraph, can be easy if you remember that an introduction has four purposes:
- Introduce the topic of the essay.
- Arouses the reader’s interest in the topic.
- Indicates the overall “plan” of the essay.
- Tells reader what the essay is about
In the IELTS writing exam, the examiners are not looking for the interesting introduction as it is not assessed in your IELTS essay. In other words, there is no difference between the fascinating introductions and boring ones in IELTS exam. In addition, time is another pressure for IELTS Writing. You have to do a lot of things in your essay for the IELTS writing within 40 minutes, for example, analysing the statement, planning your essay, and proofreading it when you have finished, so actually you just have about 35 minutes to write your essay. There is not enough time for you to worry about having “a hook” in an introduction.
Basically, the introduction has two parts:
- General statements
- A thesis statement
You should aim for around 50 words for the length of your essays.
How to structure your introduction:
- Your introduction should be 2- 3 sentences
- Sentence 1 -2 : General statement. Introduce the topic of the essay.
- Sentence 3: Thesis statement. Keep it clear, and get to the point. “ While I agree that governments and individuals are spending a significant amount of money on those celebrations, I would argue that this activity is necessary and therefore can be considered acceptable.”
Beer in mind that specific examples from your own experience shouldn’t be included in the introduction paragraph (instead the body paragraph).
GENERAL STATEMENT:
General statements aim to:.
- introduce the topic of the essay
- give background information on the topic
How to write a general statement?
When it comes to writing a general statement, the first sentence in an introductory paragraph should be a very general comment about the subject. Each subsequent sentence should become more specific than the previous one and finally, lead into the thesis statement.
Make sure you do it by paraphrasing the statement of the question, which means you need to write it again with the same meaning but use your own words. This act helps you to increase your score in the IELTS writing test, for instance:
Question : In recent years some countries have experienced very rapid economic development . This has resulted in much higher standards of living in urban areas but not in the countryside. This situation may bring some problems for the country as a whole. What are these problems? How might they be reduced?
General Statement : It seems to be an increasingly widespread concern for the effects of urbanisation with the imbalance in living standards between the city and the outskirt.
Obviously, you can see in this example; the writer used the different vocabularies with the same meaning to introduce also give the background information on the topic.
THESIS STATEMENT:
What is the definition of thesis statement.
A thesis statement is usually a sentence to offer a concise summary of the main point or claim of your IELTS essays and follows the general statement. It is critically important in your IELTS writing task 2 because it is your answer or your opinion/point of view about the given topic in the Writing test. It will guide IELTS examiner what your essay is about and help keep your argument focused.
So don’t get it mixed up with the general statement which tells the reader what topic of your essay is at the beginning of your introduction.
So, how to write a good thesis statement?
There are a range of essay question types in IELTS Writing Task 2, namely:
- Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
- Discussion (Discuss both view)
- Advantages and Disadvantages
- Problem and Solution
- Two-part Question
The first thing we need to do is to identify which type of question it is and look at the action words. For example, in the question below the action words are ‘do you agree or disagree?’
Question: The government and individuals are spending too much money on national celebrations like new year or festivals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
We, therefore, need to tell IELTS examiner clearly whether we agree or disagree, and this will influence our thesis statement. So, the thesis statement should be as follows:
People have different views about whether public expenditure on national occasions such as new year or festivals is too much nowadays. While I agree that governments and individuals are spending a significant amount of money on those celebrations, I would argue that this activity is necessary and therefore can be considered acceptable.
As can be seen, the above sentence makes it crystal clear to IELTS examiner what you think about the question. The rest of your IELTS essay will go on supporting this thesis statement.
How does the thesis statement change with different types of question?
We will now look at how thesis statements can vary with different question types. However, you should not try to learn set phrases or sentences to fit certain essays.
The golden rule is to always read the question very carefully and figure out what you have to do.
Your thesis statement will then follow on from this, depending on what you have decided you need to write about in order to answer the question.
Sample thesis statements for 5 essay question types in IELTS Writing Task 2:
- Opinion (Agree or Disagree) Topic: Too much emphasis is placed on going university for academic study. People should be encouraged to do vocational training, because there is a lack of qualified tradespeople such as electricians or plumbers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Thesis statement: It goes without saying that society always needs a skilled workforce to function. Employees of different professions contribute differently to the thriving of the community, and therefore I disagree with the statement that vocational courses should be given any more weight than before.
- Discussion (Discuss both view) Topic: Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both views and give your opinion Thesis statement: Many people show preference for repeating their daily routine while others always look for change as they believe change would bring more benefits. In my opinion, I would agree with the latter point of view.
- Advantages and Disadvantages Topic: Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both views and give your opinion Thesis statement: Many people show preference for repeating their daily routine while others always look for change as they believe change would bring more benefits. In my opinion, I would agree with the latter point of view.
- Problem and Solution Topic: There is a general increase in anti-social behaviours and lack of respect for others. What are the causes and solutions? Thesis statement: The widespread problem of anti-social behaviours and disrespectful attitudes towards others has long been a major topic of concern in society. Some of the major culprits of this problem will be discussed before the most important solutions are drawn.
- Two-part Question Topic: Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what ways has technology affected the types of personal relationships? Has this become a positive or negative development? Thesis statement: Rapid advances in technology have undoubtedly affected the way we interact in various ways. While some of this change can exert a negative impact on the way we communicate with each other, my view is that overall modern technology typically improves communication in personal relationships.
Below are two potential introductions with different thesis statements for IELTS essay question. Choose which one is better.
IELTS Essay Question:
Some people believe increasing business and cultural contacts between countries is a positive development while others argue that it is a threat to the identity of a nation? Discuss both views and give your opinion?
Introduction:
Intro 1: It is sometimes argued that increasing business and cultural contacts between countries are a positive development. I believe that the trend is a threat to identity a nation.
Intro 2: It is sometimes argued that increasing business and cultural contacts between countries is a positive development. Such positive elements include increased employment prospects, increased commerce, and increased multilateral harmony. However, I believe that this trend is a threat to the identity of a nation.
IELTS examiner’s comment:
Intro 2 is the better one. A better thesis statement (and an increase in coherence) would be to state what the reasons’ are. For example, sentence two could be “Such positive elements include increased employment prospects, increased commerce, and increased multilateral harmony.” Remember that a clear position throughout is a key feature of TR and a strong thesis statement is a great start to alert the examiner that you making your position very clear in the beginning. (notice that the above use of increased’ three times in this context is an effective writing technique)
I hope the tips mentioned above could help you to hike up your IELTS score in the IELTS writing test! Stay tune for the latest update on IELTS Material website.
Don’t forget to keep practicing to write an introduction to get yourself familiarized with the IELTS test and get the high score in IELTS.
You can also write your own introduction in the comment boxes below to receive feedback from us!
Also check :
- Tips to Improve IELTS Writing Skills
- IELTS Writing recent actual test
- IELTS Band 9 essays
- Advantage and Disadvantage Essays
- IELTS Writing Answer sheet
- IELTS map vocabulary
- IELTS Writing Task 1 Connectors
Practice IELTS Writing Task 2 based on Essay types
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Janice Thompson
Soon after graduating with a Master’s in Literature from Southern Arkansas University, she joined an institute as an English language trainer. She has had innumerous student interactions and has produced a couple of research papers on English language teaching. She soon found that non-native speakers struggled to meet the English language requirements set by foreign universities. It was when she decided to jump ship into IELTS training. From then on, she has been mentoring IELTS aspirants. She joined IELTSMaterial about a year ago, and her contributions have been exceptional. Her essay ideas and vocabulary have taken many students to a band 9.
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IMAGES
COMMENTS
Learn the content and technique of writing an introduction for IELTS writing task 2 essays. This lesson explains the background and thesis statements, paraphrasing, and length of introduction.
Learn how to write a strong introduction for your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays with this step-by-step guide. Avoid common mistakes and follow the structure of paraphrasing the question, giving your opinion and supporting it with ideas.
Introductions are an important part of a Writing Task 2 essay. They let your examiner know what to expect from your essay. ... Now that we have gone over some important strategies for writing a good introduction for Writing Task 2, it's time to look at a sample introduction. Start by reading and analysing the prompt, as mentioned in tip 1 ...
Learn how to write a high-scoring essay for IELTS writing task 2 with free tips, lessons, model essays and practice questions. Find out the test information, essay types, marking criteria, structure, language and more.
Learn how to write a great introduction for your IELTS Task 2 essay with three essential components: hook, background information and thesis statement. See examples, tips and strategies from IELTS experts and get feedback on your essays.
Learn how to prepare, plan and write a clear and concise introduction for Writing Task 2 of IELTS. This web page provides activities, worksheets, examples and tips to help you improve your essay structure and writing skills.
Learn how to write an effective introduction to an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay. See how to paraphrase, give your opinion and outline your main ideas in order to write a high band IELTS essay introduction.
Learn the structure and tips for writing introductions in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Find out how to paraphrase the question, state your thesis and outline your essay in three sentences.
Learn how to prepare, plan and write a clear and concise introduction for your IELTS Writing Task 2 essay. This web page provides activities, materials and analysis questions to help you understand the question, generate ideas and follow a logical structure.
You should aim for around 50 words for the length of your essays. How to structure your introduction: Your introduction should be 2- 3 sentences; Sentence 1 -2 : General statement. Introduce the topic of the essay. Sentence 3: Thesis statement. Keep it clear, and get to the point.