IELTS Writing Task 2: How to get a band 7 or higher.
Tips, Time Management and more



Achieving a band 7 or higher in IELTS Writing Task 2 symbolizing a high level of proficiency and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. However, reaching this level requires not only a strong command of the English language but also a strategic approach to the writing task. In this guide, we delve into essential strategies and tips designed to enhance your writing skills, focusing on the specific criteria that IELTS examiners use to assess your essays. From understanding the evaluation criteria to mastering the art of essay planning and execution, we'll guide you through the steps necessary to elevate your writing and secure a band 7 or higher on this challenging component of the IELTS exam.


Understand the Criteria

Firstly, familiarize yourself with the four criteria on which your essay will be evaluated: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each accounts for 25% of your total score.

  • Task Response: It assesses how well you address all parts of the task, presenting a clear position throughout the response.
  • Coherence and Cohesion: This measures the clarity and fluency of your essay, including logical sequencing of paragraphs and the use of cohesive devices.
  • Lexical Resource: It evaluates the range of vocabulary you use and how accurately and appropriately you use it.
  • Grammatical Range and Accuracy: This criterion assesses the variety and correctness of your grammar usage.
    • ielts writing task 2 tips get band 7 image

    Planning Your Essay

    Allocating your time effectively is key to achieving a high score in IELTS Writing Task 2. The task requires you to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem within 40 minutes. Here's a suggested breakdown:

  • Planning (5 minutes):

    • Begin by carefully reading the question and understanding what it asks. Brainstorm ideas, decide on your position (if applicable), and outline your main points. This planning phase helps ensure that your essay is well-organized and stays on topic.

  • Writing (30 minutes):

    • After planning, spend about 30 minutes writing your essay. Here’s a suggested allocation:

  • Introduction (4 minutes): Write a brief introduction where you paraphrase the question and state your thesis (your main point or argument).
  • Body Paragraphs (20 minutes): Aim to write two to three body paragraphs. Spend about 6-7 minutes on each paragraph, where you introduce a main idea, support it with explanations, examples, or evidence, and then conclude or transition smoothly to the next paragraph.
  • Conclusion (3-4 minutes): Sum up your arguments or restate your position clearly. Make sure it reflects the content and stance of your essay without introducing new information.
  • Checking (5 minutes):

    • Allocate the last 5 minutes to review your essay for any spelling or grammar mistakes and ensure that it reads well. Check if you've clearly addressed all parts of the task, and make sure your argument is logical and coherent. This step is crucial as minor errors can impact your score, particularly under the criteria of Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy.



    By following this structured approach to writing your essay, you ensure that you have adequate time not just to present your ideas but also to refine them. This strategy helps improve the overall quality of your writing, making it more likely to achieve a band 7 or higher.


    Tips for Success

  • Mind the Word Count: The minimum word count for Task 2 is 250 words. While there is no penalty for writing more, it's crucial to focus on quality over quantity. Exceeding the word count significantly without maintaining clarity and relevance can detract from the overall effectiveness of your essay. Aim to write a concise, well-developed essay that fully addresses the task, within a reasonable word range to ensure depth and clarity.
  • Address All Parts of the Task: Make sure you answer every part of the question. Missing out on parts of the task can significantly lower your Task Response score.
  • Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar: To score high in Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy, use a variety of words and sentence structures. Avoid errors by revising basic grammar rules and expanding your vocabulary.
  • Stay Relevant and Coherent: Stick to the topic, and ensure your essay flows logically from one idea to the next. Use cohesive devices (such as conjunctions, pronouns, and linking phrases) wisely to help with the flow of ideas.
  • Practice and Feedback: Practice writing essays on different topics, and seek feedback from teachers or peers. Understanding your weaknesses and working on them can significantly improve your score.

    • Practice writing with Gabble.ai for free, and get an instant band score, feedback on grammar, language, and improvement strategy.

    Example Question and Model Answer:

    Question:
    Some people think that the best way to increase road safety is to increase the minimum legal age for driving cars or riding motorbikes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?


    Model Answer:

      The safety of our roads is a paramount concern that affects everyone in society. While some argue that raising the minimum legal age for drivers and motorcyclists is the key to enhancing road safety, I believe that this measure alone is insufficient and that a multifaceted approach is necessary to address the issue comprehensively.

      Firstly, it is important to recognize that maturity does not necessarily correlate with age. Increasing the legal driving age may delay young drivers' access to the road, but it does not guarantee that they will be safer drivers once they start. Skills and responsible attitudes towards driving are cultivated through education and experience, not merely by aging. For instance, a young driver who has undergone extensive driver education and training could be significantly safer on the roads than an older individual with minimal training.

      Furthermore, focusing solely on age overlooks other critical factors contributing to road accidents, such as driving under the influence of alcohol, speeding, and the use of mobile phones while driving. These behaviors are prevalent across various age groups and pose significant safety risks. Therefore, implementing stricter laws and penalties for dangerous driving behaviors, alongside widespread public education campaigns about the dangers of such actions, could have a more immediate and pronounced effect on road safety.

      However, it is undeniable that younger drivers, particularly teenagers, have higher accident rates statistically. This suggests that while raising the minimum driving age is not a complete solution, it could be part of a broader strategy. Enhanced driving tests that more accurately assess readiness and the introduction of a graduated driving license system, where new drivers are given permissions gradually based on experience and demonstrated safe driving practices, could be more effective.

      In conclusion, while increasing the minimum legal age for driving may contribute to road safety to a certain extent, it is not a standalone solution. A comprehensive strategy that includes improved driver education, stricter enforcement of road safety laws, and a graduated licensing system is essential to significantly reduce road accidents. By addressing the issue from multiple angles, we can ensure a safer road environment for everyone.


    Analysis:
    This essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position that while increasing the legal driving age might contribute to road safety, a more comprehensive approach is necessary. The argument is developed logically, with each paragraph focusing on a specific aspect of the issue. The use of examples and the acknowledgment of counterarguments enhance the essay's coherence and persuasiveness. The lexical resource is varied, with appropriate and accurate use of vocabulary. Finally, the grammatical range is wide, with few errors, demonstrating a high level of proficiency in English.



    Final Thoughts

    Achieving a band 7 or higher in IELTS Writing Task 2 requires understanding the scoring criteria, meticulous planning, and practicing a wide range of topics. Focus on improving your coherence, cohesion, vocabulary range, and grammatical accuracy. Remember, consistent practice and constructive feedback are key to success. With dedication and the right approach, you can achieve your desired score.

    With Gabble.ai, you can practice wide range of questions that address the latest and pertinent writing and speaking topics. Get an immediate feedback, track your progress and get instant evaluations for your IELTS Writing Task 2.

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