Ultimate Guide To IELTS Task Writing 2023
Do's and Don'ts in IELTS Writing Task 2
Ultimate Guide To IELTS Task Writing 2023 – The second task of the IELTS Writing test is IELTS Essay Writing (also called IELTS Task 2). This essay test will give you a topic to respond to and you will be scored on how well you respond to it.
The essay should be at least 250 words long and include arguments, discussion, examples, an outline of the problem, possible solutions, and supporting evidence for your opinion. The time you have to complete your essay is approximately 40 minutes. The weight of the second task in IELTS Writing Task 2 is greater than the weight of the first task.
DO
DON’T
- make sure you’ve written at least 250 words
- DON’T use examples or arguments unrelated to the topic
- proofread your work to avoid simple mistakes
- use complex sentences
- use formal linking words (e.g. despite, nevertheless, furthermore)
- avoid repetition by using synonyms (e.a. important = vital = essential = crucial)
- use passive voice to sound more formal and objective (e.g. The film will be shown…)
- use formal vocabulary (ex: keep –> – maintain: make sure –> ensure) TIP: words that sound or look more French, Spanish, Italian or Portuguese will usually be more formal.
- if appropriate, state your opinion in formal style (e.g. It is my firm belief that)
- summarise the points made in the essay in the conclusion
- provide a reason and an example for each of your arguments
- start each paragraph with a topic sentence
- divide your essay into paragraphs (min. four: introduction, two main body paragraphs, conclusion)
- in the introduction: Paraphrase the task and state the aim of vour essav in a thesis statement
- spend the first five minutes planning your essay
- respond to all parts of the prompt fully.
- analyse the topic
- DON’T forget to summarise and conclude your essay in the last paragraph
- DON’T write less than 250 words
- DON’T forget to answer ALL parts of the task
- DON’T copy the task in your introduction
- DON’T use overgeneralisations (e.g. everyone, always, never, all)
- DON’T write simple sentences (e.g. Everyone thinks it’s true. I disagree.)
- DON’T repeat the same vocabulary throughout your essay
- avoid simple vocabulary (e.g. say, think, bad) and basic linking words (e.g. and. but, also)
- DON’T use colloquial expressions (e.g. I had great time)
- DON’T use only personal examples
- DON’T use emotive language (e.g. disgusting, fabulous)
- avoid being personal (e.g. I, me. my)
- DON’T use contractions (e.g. I don’t –> I do not)
How to Use Commas Correctly in an IELTS Test
There is a common mistake in IELTS writing when punctuation is incorrect, especially the comma (,). It is absolutely necessary to be able to use basic punctuation marks in English.
Here are some basic rules for correctly using commas.
1. In lists
If there are three or more words or phrases in a sentence, commas must be used to separate them.
As examples:
It is common for people to consume foods that are high in calories, have a sedentary lifestyle, and consume excessive alcohol today.
TOP TIP
The term “etc” is often used at the end of lots by students, but this is not required. Three items should be included in a list, and the list should end after three.
Burgers, french fries, fried chicken, and others are commonly eaten as fast food. –> WRONG
Fast food is commonly eaten by people, such as burgers, french fries, and fried chicken. You are in the right place.
2. Before coordinating conjunctions
When writing compound sentences, use commas before coordinating conjunctions such as and, but, or, and so forth.
As examples:
A university’s unique function requires special evaluation standards because, according to officials, no budget is without some fat.
3. Separate multiple adjectives modifying the same noun
A comma separates a series of adjectives that describe the same object.
Example: The tall, cute lady is my girlfriend.
4. After introductory adverbs, phrases, or clauses
If an introductory adverb or phrase is followed by a comma, make sure it is followed by a period.
After introductory adverbs
Example: Ironically, the same people who persuaded him to run for office campaigned against him when he sought a second term..
After transitional words
Example: Many, consequently, struggle when their first enter the workplace
After prepositional phrases
Example: In the past, it took much more time for people to travel outside the country.
After words, such as “say” and before a quotation
Example: John said, “I really hate when it’s hot outside.”
The comma is very common in English writing, and it can be used for several purposes other than those listed above. There are, however, a few things you should be aware of most. It is a good idea to study these rules and write your own example sentences based on them. When writing for the IELTS exam, you should ask yourself whether your sentences fall into the categories above, and whether commas are used appropriately.
Top 10 Universities in Canada which accepts IELTS Score 6
One of the most important metrics Canadian universities consider when considering your application is your IELTS score. Ideally, international students should achieve a band score of 7.5 or higher, but many have trouble reaching this mark, which can hamper their admission chances.
We’ve compiled a list of the ten best universities in Canada that accept a band 6 IELTS score to help you. Furthermore, you will be provided with minimum scores by section.
1. SAINT MARY’S UNIVERSITY
Halifax, Nova Scotia, is the home of Saint Mary’s University (SMU), founded in 1802 as a boys’ school. It was incorporated as a college in 1841 and granted university status in 1952. It is considered to be one of the oldest universities in Canada. There are a number of undergraduate, graduate, and online programs offered in several fields, including engineering, computer science, finance, health, and film studies. A total of 7,000 students are enrolled at Saint Mary’s, both part-time and full-time. There are 29% of international students among them from over 118 different countries.
Approximately 50,000 alumni are connected to SMU! In various fields of excellence, some alumni have made a name for themselves. The 31st lieutenant governor of Nova Scotia, Mayann Francis, graduated from SMU. At the Americana Music Association Awards, Brian Ahern won the Lifetime Achievement Award for Producer.
2. VANCOUVER ISLAND UNIVERSITY
Nanaimo, British Columbia is home to Vancouver Island University, a public university founded in 1969. It offers bachelor’s, master’s, and diploma degrees in a variety of areas, including but not limited to: art, science and technology, health sciences, business and management, and education.
3. UNIVERSITY OF LETHBRIDGE
Located in Lethbridge, Alberta, the University of Lethbridge is an open research university founded in 1967. The university belongs to the International Association of Universities. There is an emphasis on liberal education, interdisciplinary programs, and experiential learning at the university. There are around 9,000 students enrolled in the university’s undergraduate and postgraduate programs. In addition to its four faculties, the university has three schools. They are:
Faculty of Education
Faculty of Fine Arts
Faculty of Arts & Science
Faculty of Health Science
School of Graduate Studies
School of Liberal Education
School of Business
In addition to Taylor Kitsch (an actor and model), Austin Mardon (an author) and Gavin Williams (an actor and writer).
4. NIPISSING UNIVERSITY
North Bat, Ontario is the home of Nipissing University, founded in 1967. Students benefit from small class sizes and great staff, as well as many opportunities to conduct research. The university is well-known for its eminence in the fields of science, art, and teacher education. The university offers undergraduate programs in biology, classical studies, and economics, among others. Besides business and commerce courses, they offer criminal justice and business courses as well.
5. NIAGARA COLLEGE
Niagara College opened its doors in Welland, Ontario, in 1967. In order to provide more career options to students, these institutions were established. When Canada started receiving more tourists, they began training students for jobs in the tourism industry by founding the Tourism Industry Development Center (TIDC). They were the first Canadian college to offer courses in brewing and winemaking. Three campuses exist: the Welland campus, the Niagara-on-the-lake campus, and the Taif campus (in Saudi Arabia).
6. KWANTLEN POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY
A public university located in Surrey, British Columbia, Kwantlen Polytechnic University was founded in 1981. There are currently 20,000 students enrolled at the university. There are more than 120 academic disciplines offered by the university. Numerous vocational programs, including those in engineering and nursing, are available to qualified technicians.
On October 24, 2008, the university was admitted to the Association of Universities and Colleges of Canada (AUCC). Polytechnic universities are the only ones in Canada.
7. HEC MONTREAL
A business and management institute founded in 1907, HEC Montreal was the first of its kind in Canada. It is one of the constituent schools of the Université de Montréal. Association to Advance Collegiate Schools of Business (AACSB) and Association of MBAs (AMBA) have accredited the program. In addition to bachelor’s degrees and master’s degrees in business and management, they offer certificates and diplomas as well.
There are approximately 14,356 students enrolled at the school. International students from nearly 151 countries make up over 4,100 of these students.
8. DURHAM COLLEGE
Established in 1967, Durham College is located in – you guessed it – Durham, Ontario. Among the courses offered are art and media courses, skilled trade courses, and engineering courses. Over 13,000 students study at Durham, including more than 2,000 international students from more than 60 countries.
9. CONCORDIA UNIVERSITY
In the heart of Montreal, Concordia University is an English-language institution established in 1974. Quebec University is one of the top universities in the country.
As well as Arts and Science and Fine Arts faculties, the university houses the Gina Cody School of Engineering and Computer Science, as well as a Center for Continuing Education. Nearly 48,000 students attend this university, making it one of the most desirable schools in the country. Several Canadian business schools have consistently ranked their John Molson School of Business among the top ten.
10. CAMOSUN COLLEGE
It has a student population of approximately 19,000, with 2100 international students from more than 80 countries studying at Camosun College, founded in 1971. They offer 160+ academic programs across seven schools, including Arts and Science, Business, Health and Human Services, among others.
IDP vs British Council: Which one should I choose while taking IELTS Test?
The majority of such people are unaware of their differences. In addition, certifications through IDP are only valid in Australia, while certifications through BC are valid only in the United Kingdom.
What is the best preparation course for IELTS, IDP or British Council? To be honest, it doesn’t matter whether you write the exam through British Council or IDP. There are no differences in the marking criteria between the two. No matter whether you take the test through IDP or BC, you will be able to take it in countries like Canada, New Zealand, the UK, the USA and many others.
History of IELTS
Initially known as the English language Testing Service, the IELTS was established in 1980. UCLES (then Cambridge English Language Assessment) and the British Council launched the program. English was used as a communication language and for specific purposes. It had new ideas and was focused on communication. In the test, work items were based on real-life situations in which English was used.
A smaller number of test-takers took the test in the beginning (4,000 in 1981, increasing to 10,000 in 1985). A few practical difficulties were encountered during the test’s organization. The test was then redesigned as part of a revision project. As part of the international IELTS partnership, Cambridge English Language Assessment and the British Council joined the International Development Program of Australian Universities and Colleges (IDP), now known as IDP: IELTS Australia, to ensure international participation in the redesign.
Is there any difference between idp and British council ? You will find the answer as you read further.
Nature of the test
During the test, Cambridge English Language Assessment questions are posed. There is no difference between the British Council and the IDP, so you should take either test.
IELTS Examiners
There is no difference between the training received by IDP examiners and that of British Council examiners. There is a correct or incorrect answer for each question in the Listening and Reading tests. Depending on how many questions you correctly answer, you are evaluated.
Examiners in these cases have no special responsibilities.
Writing and Speaking tests are heavily influenced by the examiner. IDP and BC examiners complete the same course, and their marking criteria are the same. Moreover, they are regularly evaluated to ensure they are doing a good job.
Accents used
Even though BC is British and IDP is Australian, they don’t care about IELTS. It is not necessary for the examiner to be from a particular country or use a particular accent. The test taker may also use any accent he or she wants.
When deciding between BC and IDP, what factors do you consider?
Proximity
Choosing a test center close to home is important. Instead of choosing some distant center and ending up exhausted when you arrive at the test center, you can report well in advance and focus on other important things.
Availability of equipment
The Listening test is normally taken with headphones so that test takers can concentrate better. It is a good idea to check with the test center if the equipment is available before taking the test.
Availability of test date
Dates should be taken into account when choosing the center. If you want to be successful on the test, you must be well prepared and confident. It should be the basis for deciding the date. Decide on the center that offers you your preferred date.
Fee and format
Regardless of whether you register through IDP or BC, the exam fee remains the same. Both Academic and General versions of IDP and BC have the same fee, regardless of whether it is computer-based or pen-and-paper.
IELTS online courses
We offer online courses that will help you improve your English and prepare for IELTS reading, writing, speaking, and listening tests.
You can practice reading and listening for FREE at https://ieltsonlinetests.com/ielts-exam-library
You will be able to prepare for new tests every month when we post a new book here.
Studying for the IELTS test involves more than just reading and writing. Let’s try our speaking and writing evaluation at: https://ieltsonlinetests.com/ielts-premium-services
Besides, we also have the PDF package at https://ieltsonlinetests.com/premium-services/ielts-test-super-pdf-pack so you can download these files to practice offline at home.
Hopefully after using our services, you will:
– be familiar with all sections of the IELTS test
– have some useful tips to help you achieve your IELTS goals
– understand how IELTS is assessed.