Read the information on IELTS writing tasks and be ready to speak on the WRITING
part of the test: genres, format, task types.
Hello, dear audience! The subject of my today’s presentation is “Writing as
a part of the IELTS test: genres, format, task types”. In my topic, I will shed
light on the specifics of this part of the test, take a close look at its format, task
types, differences in writing in IELTS Academic and finally dwell upon how to
properly organize your preparation for this task and get a high score.
Writing is the third part of the IELTS test. The time allotted əˈlɒtɪd for this part
is 60 minutes. During this time, you need to complete two written tasks. For
Academic and General Training they differ. This part is considered the most
difficult in the entire exam. The absolute majority of students pass it the worst.
Although, it may seem to you that writing is easier, because it takes more time
than speaking. So if you're an introvert, ˈɪntrəvɜːt that's great, you don't need
to communicate with the interviewer. However, the statistics speak for
themselves. For example, the average score statistics of students in writing who
took IELTS around the world last year is 5.6. * Average IELTS Academic
scores (https://www.ielts.org/for-researchers/test-statistics/test-taker-
performance)
Once Ukrainian volunteer vɒlənˈtɪə and copywriter Valentina Musina said:
“Due to lack of time and focus on Writing, I scored a 6.0, although I always
loved writing and considered it my strong side. Today I understand that I should
have started preparing earlier and paid attention to all parts of the test in
proportion, rather than sacrificing preparation for Listening at the expense ɪk
ˈspens of Writing”. What parts does the IELTS written part consist of?
What is the format of each task? What should you pay attention to when
performing them? What are some general tips for improving your own
performance? Let’s find the answers together.
To begin with, I should say that candidates are required to complete two
tasks in both modules. Since preparation for IELTS Academic is a priority for
me, I would like to consider its structure in more detail. In this part of the test,
you need to complete the following tasks in 60 minutes:
1. write a written description of the graph, table or diagram presented in the
task (150 words or a little more);
2. write an essay on the topic of the statement that you will be given in the
task (250-300 words).
Next, let’s discuss the key features of every task type. The key
features indicate the mandatory ˈmændət(ə)rɪ requirements for such
statements, which are the same for everyone and must definitely be in your
texts,
Writing Task 1 of the IELTS Academic test is based on some graphic or
pictorial pɪkˈtɔːrɪəl information: flow charts/flowcharts, bar charts/ bar
graphs, line graphs, pie charts, tables, or maps. You need to write a descriptive
report/summary of at least 150 words on the information provided. It will be
better to spend approximately 20 minutes on this task which tests the ability to
describe a process, select and report the main features, to describe and compare
data ˈdeɪtə, identify significance and trends in factual information. That is why
it is better to write as many similar texts as possible before IELTS, so that you
do not think about the order of words or the selection of sentences, but do it
automatically. The summary should be written in a formal or semi-formal style.
You need to keep the following structure:
1. The Introduction /introductory sentence that explains what is in the
diagram. You should refer to the rubric given and paraphrase it.
2. The body which consists of body paragraph 1 (BP1) and body
paragraph 2 (BP2). You are to assess əˈses the information,
comparing and contrasting kənˈtrɑːstɪŋ figures whenever possible.
3. The conclusion (concluding sentence) in which you repeat the salient
ˈseɪlɪənt points and reflect on the title of the diagram
Writing Task 2 is an essay on the specified topic. You are given only 40
minutes, and at the same time, the required minimum volume is 250 words.
Here it is also important not to panic, but to follow the structure.
The structure of any written work consists of 3 parts:
1. Introduction;
2. Main part;
3. Conclusions.
In both cases you should remember the about vocabulary and grammar.
Do not repeat words and phrases from the exam question unless there is no
alternative. Do not use the same word more than once/twice. Use precise and
accurate ˈækjʊrət words in a sentence. Learn synonyms and use them
accurately in order to give the impression that you can use a good range of
vocabulary.
In the third point of my presentation, I would like to say a few words
about preparation for Writing. IELTS is a difficult exam, so you need to
prepare carefully for each stage. Here are some general tips on how to organize
your activities:
Learn to count the number of words by eye. You will not have time to
count words during the test, and points will be deducted for a lack of
choice. Therefore, you need to be sure at least that you have written
enough.
Do not deviate ˈdiːvɪeɪt from the topic, you should keep the focus of
attention on the definite subject.
Use a formal or informal style as required by the task. Avoid colloquial
words and expressions if it is a formal letter, and vice versa, do not use
formal constructions in a letter to a friend.
In the Academic Module, it is important to pay attention to details and
illustrate your statements with them. Do not make assumptions or invent
additional information.
In conclusion, I would like to summarize the major points delivered in
the topic. The main keys to a good IELTS writing part are clear and competent
structure, structuring by paragraphs, explaining ideas and giving examples for
each of them, the use of linking words for the logic and academic style of your
work. It is a challenge for a professional, but everything is possible if you put in
your best effort.
My presentation is over. Thank you for your attention!
