MASTERING IELTS
MODULE 3: WRITING
IELTS Writing is a 60-minute test consisting of two mandatory tasks. Breaking past Band 6.5 into Band 7.5–8.0+ requires mastering paragraph structure, precise lexical resource, grammatical accuracy, and strictly satisfying the official examiner rubric.
3.1 Writing Task Breakdown
| Task | Module | Description | Min. Words | Target Time |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Task 1 | Academic | Data report (charts, graphs, tables, maps, process) | 150 words | ~20 minutes |
| Task 1 | General | Formal, semi-formal, or informal letter | 150 words | ~20 minutes |
| Task 2 | Both | Formal discursive academic essay | 250 words | ~40 minutes |
3.2 Academic Task 1: The 4-Paragraph Structure
In Academic Task 1, you must objectively summarize visual data without personal interpretation or speculation. Always follow this standard 4-paragraph framework:
- Introduction: Paraphrase the prompt using synonyms and alter the grammatical structure.
- Overview: Highlight 2–3 key trends, highest/lowest points, or main procedural stages. (Without a clear overview, Task Achievement cannot exceed Band 5!).
- Body Paragraph 1: Group related data points logically and support with specific metrics/figures.
- Body Paragraph 2: Analyze remaining trends, exceptions, and pertinent comparisons.
3.3 General Training Task 1: Letter Formats
- Formal: Written to a company, institution, or official you do not know. Salutation: Dear Sir/Madam; Sign-off: Yours faithfully.
- Semi-Formal: Written to someone you know professionally (landlord, supervisor, instructor). Salutation: Dear Mr./Ms. [Surname]; Sign-off: Yours sincerely.
- Informal: Written to a personal acquaintance or close friend. Salutation: Dear [First name]; Sign-off: Warm regards / Best wishes.
Rule: Every bullet point specified in the exam prompt must be fully elaborated with equal weight.
3.4 Task 2: Essay Masterclass
Task 2 is weighted at twice the value (66%) of Task 1. Typical essay question types include: (1) Agree or Disagree, (2) Discuss Both Views & Give Your Opinion, (3) Advantages & Disadvantages, (4) Problems / Causes and Solutions, and (5) Two-Part Direct Questions.
Paragraph 1 (Introduction, ~40-50 words): Paraphrase topic prompt + Direct Thesis Statement.
Paragraph 2 (Body 1, ~90 words): Clear Topic Sentence -> Detailed Explanation -> Concrete Example -> Result / Concluding Link.
Paragraph 3 (Body 2, ~90 words): Clear Topic Sentence -> Detailed Explanation -> Concrete Example -> Result / Concluding Link.
Paragraph 4 (Conclusion, ~35-45 words): Restate Thesis Statement + Summarize Key Points (No new arguments!).
3.5 The 4 Assessment Criteria (25% Each)
- Task Achievement / Task Response: Fully answering all prompt components with well-developed ideas and clear position throughout.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical sequencing, clear central themes per paragraph, and varied, accurate discourse connectors.
- Lexical Resource: Natural collocations, sophisticated academic vocabulary, accurate word choices, and rare spelling slips.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Effective mix of complex, compound, and passive structures with frequent error-free sentences.
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