IELTS Writing task 2

1. IELTS Writing task 2

2. About the task

Table of
contents
01.
02.
About the task
Types of essays
You can describe the topic
of the section here
You can describe the topic
of the section here
03.
04.
Essays structure
Linking phrases
You can describe the topic
of the section here
You can describe the topic
of the section here

3. 01. About the task

4. Types of essays

02.
Types of
essays

5. There are 5 types of IELTS essays

01.
Oppinion
essay
Discussion
essay
03.
02.
Advatage
Disadvantage
essay
Solution
essay
05.
04.
Direct
question
essay

6. Opinion essay

This type of essay is where you are presented with someone else's
opinion and you are asked if you agree or disagree with it. The opinion
is often flawed or extreme in its views. Some teachers call this the
Argumentative Essay.
The instructions can be written in a number of ways. Below are a few
examples:
Do you agree or disagree?
Do you agree?
What do you think?
To what extent do you agree?
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
What is your opinion?
No matter how the instructions are written, you can take any position
you want: agree, disagree or partial agreement (balanced view).

7.

Note:
•IELTS will not tell you which type of
essay you are given. You must identify
the essay type yourself by looking at
the instructions and the task given.
The biggest mistake for an opinion
essay is not giving a clear opinion.
Your opinion must be clear and remain
the same opinion throughout the
entire essay. Another problem is when
people sit on the fence without any
clear opinion. A balanced view does
not mean you agree with both sides
fully. You can't turn an opinion essay
into a discussion essay.

8.

Opinion essay

9. Opinion essay. Agree/disagree

10.

11.

12.

13.

14.

15. Opinion essay

16. Opinion essay. Practice

17. Opinion essay. Practice

18. Opinion essay. Practice

117

19.

117

20.

21.

Work-life balance
Burnout
Exhaustion
Life satisfaction
Efficiency
Small businesses
Labor costs
Flexible models
Outdated (systems)
Desirable/necessary (change)
Chronic stress
Sustainable workforce
Condensed hours
Task-oriented focus
Output levels
Sharper focus
Workplace culture
Quality over quantity
Compressed workweek
Labor practices
Balanced approach
Necessary evolution
Task 1: Fill in the Blanks
Choose the correct word from the list to complete
the sentences.
1.Many employees suffer from __________ due to
long hours and high pressure. (burnout / labor
costs)
2.A four-day workweek with 10-hour days is an
example of a __________. (flexible model /
outdated system)
3.Companies that prioritize __________ often see
higher employee retention. (life satisfaction /
output levels)
4.Reducing __________ can help small businesses
survive economic downturns. (chronic stress /
labor costs)
5.Modern offices are shifting to a __________,
measuring results rather than hours
worked. (task-oriented focus / necessary
evolution)

22.

Task 2: Match the
Definitions
Match each term to its
correct meaning.
Sustainable workforce
Compressed workweek
Quality over quantity
Chronic stress
Balanced approach
a) Working full hours in fewer days
(e.g., 4×10).
b) Long-term stress harming health.
c) Valuing work excellence above
long hours.
d) A strategy that considers both
employee and business needs.
e) Employees who remain healthy
and productive long-term.

23. Task 3: Sentence Transformation Rewrite the sentences using a synonym or phrase from the vocabulary list. "Old-fashioned work

Task 3: Sentence Transformation
Rewrite the sentences using a synonym or phrase from the vocabulary
list.
"Old-fashioned work styles harm morale." → __________ work styles harm
morale.
(Answer: Outdated)
"A 9-to-5 schedule doesn’t suit modern needs." → Traditional schedules
are __________.
(Answer: outdated / not desirable)
"Focusing on tasks, not hours, improves results." → A __________
improves results.
(Answer: task-oriented focus)

24. Task 4: Discussion Questions Answer using at least 2 vocabulary words per response. How can companies reduce burnout? Example:

Task 4: Discussion Questions
Answer using at least 2 vocabulary words per response.
How can companies reduce burnout?
Example: "Offering condensed hours and promoting work-life
balance can prevent chronic stress."
Why is a shorter workweek beneficial for small businesses?
Example: "Lower labor costs and a sustainable
workforce increase profitability."

25.

1. Introduction
Hook: Briefly introduce the topic (e.g., "Work-life balance has become a major concern in
modern society.").
Thesis Statement: Clearly state your stance ("I strongly agree that reducing the working
week and extending weekends would benefit both employees and employers.").
These days, discussions about work-life balance dominate
workplaces and media headlines. As burnout and stress
levels rise, many argue that the traditional five-day
workweek is outdated. I strongly agree that reducing
working hours and extending weekends would
significantly benefit both employees and employers. This
essay will explain why this change is not just desirable but
necessary.

26.

2. Paragraph 1: Improved Well-being & Mental Health
A shorter workweek reduces stress and enhances quality of life.
Supporting Points:
overwork leads to burnout.
Reducing the workweek directly improves mental health and
overall well-being. Many employees facing five-day schedules
experience constant stress and exhaustion, leaving little time for
rest or personal life. Shorter work hours allow people to recharge,
spend time with family, and pursue hobbies, leading to higher life
satisfaction. For example, people who switched to a four-day week
report feeling more energized and less overwhelmed. When
workers have adequate downtime, they return to their jobs
refreshed and more motivated, creating a healthier and more
productive workforce.

27.

Paragraph 2: Increased Productivity
Fewer working hours can boost efficiency.
Supporting Points:
Focus on results, not hours (remote work success).
Another reason in favor of reducing working hours is increased
efficiency of workers. When employees have shorter workweeks,
they tend to focus more intensely on completing tasks
efficiently rather than merely filling time. Many companies that
have adopted four-day workweeks report maintaining or even
increasing output levels, as workers become more motivated to
maximize their productivity during condensed hours. For
instance, several tech companies have found that giving staff
an extra day off leads to sharper focus during working days and
fewer distractions. This approach not only boosts efficiency but
also fosters a workplace culture that values quality work over
long hours.

28.

Paragraph 3: Counterargument
Critics argue it harms businesses.
Rebuttal: Flexible models offset costs (e.g., compressed
hours).
Some argue that a shorter workweek would harm
businesses, particularly small enterprises. They claim
reduced hours could decrease output and increase labor
costs. However, this concern can be effectively addressed
through flexible work models. Many companies have
successfully implemented compressed workweeks where employees complete their full hours in fewer days
- maintaining productivity while giving staff longer
weekends.

29. 3. Conclusion (30-40 words) Summary: Restate key arguments (well-being, productivity). Final Opinion: "Thus, a shorter workweek

3. Conclusion (30-40 words)
Summary: Restate key arguments (well-being,
productivity).
Final Opinion: "Thus, a shorter workweek is a progressive
step forward."
In summary, a shorter workweek enhances both
mental well-being and workplace productivity while
flexible models address business concerns. This
balanced approach benefits employees and
employers alike. Therefore, reducing working hours
represents a necessary evolution in modern labor
practices.

30. Discussion essay

This type of essay presents you with a statement and you must present the two
sides. This might be two sides of the same issue:
Or it might be two separate issues which you need to discuss:

31. Discussion essay

32.

117

33.

34.

35. Shrinking habitats – places where animals live and breed which are decreasing in size. Biodiversity – variety of different

Shrinking habitats – places where animals live and breed which
are decreasing in size.
Biodiversity – variety of different types of biological species.
Endangered species – types of animals/plants which are in danger
of no longer existing.
Climate change sceptics – people who do not believe that climate
change is a serious issue.
Global warming – steady rise in average world temperatures.
Carbon (dioxide) emissions – carbon dioxide gas from factories,
cars, etc.
Fossil fuels – coal, oil, etc.
Greenhouse effect – warming of the Earth's surface caused by
pollution, where gases trap and redirect heat back down to the
Earth's surface.
Exerts severe pressure on – puts great pressure on (formal).
Finite resources – limited resources that will eventually run out / be
exhausted.
Ecological balance – balance of natural relationships in the
environment.
Uncontrolled deforestation – unrestricted destruction/clearing of
forests.
Demographic projections – forecasts about the population.
Grow exponentially – grow extremely rapidly.
Depleting resources – resources that are reducing.
Waste disposal – getting rid of waste.
Toxic waste – poisonous waste materials.
Contaminating – poisoning (something).
Precious commodity – very valuable substance.
Water security – ability to ensure that a population has safe
drinking water.
Worst-case scenarios – the worst possibilities for the future.

36.

1.GREEN CREDENTIALS
1. Definition: Reputation for positive support of the environment and for making policies that reflect this.
2.PROPHETS OF DOOM AND GLOOM
1. Definition: People who always make the most depressing or pessimistic predictions about the future.
3.SUSTAINABLE DEVELOPMENT
1. Definition: Development of industry, etc. which does not damage the environment or social and economic stability,
and which can continue over a period of time.
4.RENEWABLE ENERGY
1. Definition: Energy produced using sun, wind, or crops rather than coal or other fuels which cannot be replaced once

37.

38.

39.

40. Advantage Disadvantage essay

There are two types of questions in this category.
Advantage and Disadvantage Essay
This is similar to a discussion essay where you are given a
statement must present the positive and negative side of the
issue:
Outweigh Essay This is by far the most difficult of
the two essay types in this category. It requires you to
present an opinion and explain your opinion.

41.

Advantage Disadvantage
essay

42.

43.

44.

45.

1.make a living
1. Определение: earn enough to live (can also be used just to refer to
one's job and how one earns one's money: She makes a living as a
hairdresser).
2. Перевод: зарабатывать на жизнь (также может использоваться
для указания рода занятий: Она зарабатывает на жизнь как
парикмахер).
2.do a job-share
1. Определение: situation where two people share equal parts of the
same job.
2. Перевод: ситуация, когда два человека делят одну и ту же
работу на равные части.
3.lay off staff
1. Определение: dismiss staff because there is no work for them to do.
2. Перевод: увольнять сотрудников из-за отсутствия работы для
них.
4.go freelance
1. Определение: work for several different organisations rather than
working full-time for one organisation.
2. Перевод: работать на несколько разных организаций, а не на
одну организацию на полной ставке.

46.

47.

BEN's Story:
1.practised medicine
1. Definition: worked as a doctor
2. Пример: After graduating, he
practised medicine in London for 10
years.
2.carve a niche for myself
1. Definition: make a special position for
myself
2. Пример: She carved a niche for
herself as an expert in renewable
energy.
3.opposite number
1. Definition: someone doing the same
job in a different location
2. Пример: I regularly consult with my
opposite number in our Berlin office.
4.took up the post
1. Definition: started work (in a particular
position)
2. Пример: She took up the post of
director last month.
JULIA's Story:
1.putting together my CV
1. Definition: creating a curriculum vitae (written
description of education, qualifications, skills and
career)
2. Пример: He spent the weekend putting together
his CV for job applications.
2.fast-track scheme
1. Definition: system for rapid training and promotion
of talented staff
2. Пример: The company's fast-track scheme helps
young managers progress quickly.
3.moving up the ladder
1. Definition: being promoted
2. Пример: After just two years, she was already
moving up the ladder.
4.had a change of heart
1. Definition: my attitude or mood changed
2. Пример: I was going to sell the house but then
had a change of heart.
5.get my priorities right
1. Definition: give importance to the right aspects of
life
2. Пример: After the accident, he realized he
needed to get his priorities right.
6.take priority over
1. Definition: be more important to me than
2. Пример: Family matters should take priority over
work.

48.

49.

50. Speaking corner

51. Speaking corner

52. Solution Essay

Solution Only Essay
Cause Solution Essay
Problem Solution Essay
Cause Effect Essay

53. Solution Essay. Example

54. Solution Essay. Example

55. Solution essay

56. Solution Essay. Practice

57. Solution Essay. Practice

58.

59.

60.

61.

62. Reasons for Interest

Methods of
Research
Reasons for
Interest
1.
Personal Connection – People want to know who lived
there before them and the stories tied to the house.
1.
Local Archives & Records – Checking land
registries, old maps, or census data.
2.
Historical Value – Older buildings may have unique
architectural styles or links to historical events.
2.
Historical Societies – Local historians may have
documents or photos.
3.
Property Value – Knowing a home’s history can
increase its market appeal.
3.
Online Databases – Websites like ancestry.com or
municipal digital archives.
4.
Cultural Identity – Some research their homes to
connect with local heritage.
4.
Interviewing Neighbors – Long-term residents may
share oral history.
5.
Physical Evidence – Old inscriptions, construction
materials, or hidden artifacts.
Vocabulary:
Public records
Genealogical research
Primary sources
Oral history
Architectural clues
Vocabulary:
Sentimental value
Ancestral ties
Preservation efforts
Real estate appeal
Legacy

63.

In several nations, there is a marked increase in individuals exhibiting a heightened
curiosity about the historical narrative of their homes or buildings. This essay will discuss the factors that
contribute to this emerging trend and propose ways people can investigate the antecedents of their structures.
One potential driving force behind this growing interest is the rise of genealogy and ancestry research, which
has ignited a passion for personal history among many individuals. As people delve into their family trees,
they naturally become curious about the spaces their ancestors inhabited and
the connection between their living environments and family narratives. Consequently,
learning about the history of their dwellings allows individuals to establish a more
profound connection with their ancestors and enrich their understanding of their family's past.
Another factor contributing to this enthusiasm for architectural history is the increasing appreciation for
craftsmanship and authenticity. In a world characterized by mass production and standardized designs, the
allure of unique and historic structures becomes more pronounced. These buildings embody the skill,
dedication, and creativity of past artisans, fueling a renewed interest in architectural heritage and inspiring
future innovators to push the boundaries of design and construction.
To investigate the history of their edifices, individuals can employ several strategies. One approach is to
consult with architectural conservators or restoration specialists who possess expertise in historic building
techniques, materials, and styles. These professionals can provide guidance on the age, significance,
and architectural lineage of the structure. Another method involves examining primary source materials, such
as historical newspapers, city directories, and property tax records, which can offer insights into the building's
past ownership, usage, and modifications. Finally, examining architectural plans, blueprints, or builder's
contracts, if available, can provide valuable information on the original design, construction details, and the
vision behind the structure.
In conclusion, the increasing interest in the historical context of homes and buildings can be attributed to the
growing enthusiasm for genealogy and the appreciation for craftsmanship and authenticity. By utilizing a
variety of research techniques, individuals can unravel the historical tapestry of their living spaces,
deepening their connection with both personal and architectural history.

64. Direct questions essay

Some teachers call these the Double Question Essays
or Two Question Essays. However, these types of
essay questions might contain one, two or three
questions for you to answer.
In the question above, you are asked
one specific question. Your whole essay
must tackle this question only.
This essay question has just one issue and one
question. You must explain what type of
development you think working from home is.

65. Direct questions essay

66. Structure and Paragraphs

03.
Structure and
Paragraphs

67.

You are advised to use only 40
mins to write your writing
task 2 essay so it is a short,
highly focused, highly
relevant, well-organized essay

68. Coherence and Cohesion

The examiner will mark how well structured your
essay is. This is part of the marking criterion of
Coherence and Cohesion, which is 25% of your
writing task 2 marks. In this criterion, the examiner
will check:
1. the overall essay structure
2. 2. how ideas are put into paragraphs to help the
reader navigate the essay
3. 3. how topic sentences are written to help the
reader understanding the paragraph
4. 4. how supporting points are organised within
body paragraphs
5. 5. how linking devices and signposts are used to
direct the flow of the essay.

69. The structure

70. Introduction paragraph

The best way to improve health is to do daily
exercise. To what extend do you agree?
The introsuction of ANY
essay type consists of
TWO statements.
1. The background
1.The background statement (parphrase the statement)
statement
The most effective method in developing and improving health
is considered to be daily exercise.
2. The thesis
2.The thesis (answer)
In my opinion, I agree that exercise is a key to health.
However, I also believe that diet is important.

71.

Cause/ Solution essay

72.

Advantage/ Disadvantage essay. Writing an
introduction

73.

Cause/ Problem essay. Writing an introduction

74.

Cause/ Problem essay. Writing an introduction

75.

Cause/ Solution essay.
Practice. Writing an
introduction

76. Writing an introduction Practice

Opinion essay

77. Analyze the introduction for an opinion essay

78.

Opinion essay, Writing an
introduction for an opinion essay

79. TOPIC: The fast food industry has negative effects on our health, the environment and family eating habits. Do you agree or

Opinion essay, Writing an
introduction for an opinion essay.
Practice
TOPIC: The fast food industry has
negative effects on our health, the
environment and family eating
habits. Do you agree or disagree?
— health
— the environment
— family eating habits

80. It is often claimed that fast food industry impacts negatively on the general level of health, ecology and dietary habits(a

It is often claimed that fast food industry impacts negatively on the general level of
health, ecology and dietary habits. Personally, I am convinced that this is the case
because it provides easy access to food of low nutritional value, relies on disposable
packaging, and produces excessive amounts of wastage and air pollution.
It is often claimed that fast food industry impacts negatively on the general level of
health, ecology and dietary habits(a paraphrase of the topic statement). Personally, I
am convinced that this is the case(direct opinion) because it provides easy
access to food of low nutritional value(argument 1, health+eating habits),
relies on disposable packaging(argument 2, environment+eating habits), and
produces excessive amounts of wastage and air pollution(argument 3,
environment+health). — all three components are addressed!

81. Recently life has changed in many ways, and we have worse health and live in poorer environment because of the development

Recently life has changed in many ways, and we have worse health and live in poorer
environment because of the development of industry. I am sure that food industry is
the main culprit in this situation because it makes you fat and inactive, and because
they put too much salt and spices into burgers.
Recently life has changed in many ways(too general), and we have worse health and live in
poorer environment(only two components are mentioned, family eating habits is
missing!) because of the development of industry(the topic is only about fast food
industry, so it's too general). I am sure that food industry (the topic is only about fast
food industry, so it's still too general) is the main(strictly speaking, we are not asked
whether it's the main source of problems or not, just whether fast food industry leads to
the aforementioned problems) culprit in this situation because it makes you fat(the word
«fat» itself doesn't sound right in an essay) and inactive, and because they put too much
salt and spices into burgers(too specific, it's an example, not an argument, we don't cover
examples in the introduction). — even if we count it as a list of arguments, it's only about
health, the other 2 components are left unattended!

82.

Discussion essay. Writing
an introduction.
Look at the introduction to a
discussion essay. What is the
structure of the introduction.

83. Use this formula to write an introduction to this essay

84. The body paragraphs

Each body paragraph must have a main theme or main idea. If your ideas
are jumbled up and scattered between paragraphs you will get a low
score for CC marking criterion. So, each body paragraph must be unique
in content and not overlap in conten twith other body paragraphs.
Within the body paragraph, you will always start with a topic sentence.
This is a statement that contains your main idea or theme. It must be
clear for the examiner to read. By reading this sentence, the aim of the
paragraph is made clear. All supporting points that follow will explain your
main idea or central theme.

85.

86.

87.

88. Supporting your argument

Opinion essay

89. Supporting your argument

Opinion essay

90. Expressing someone’s opinion Discussion essay

117

91. Expressing someone’s opinion Discussion essay

Opinion essay. Analyze how linking phrases are used in the body
paragraph in the body essay

92. Practice

Use the phrases from the table to express
someone’s opinion

93. Avoiding generalization

118. Spotlight 2. Unit 4

94.

95. Avoiding generalization. Practice

96. Conclusion

Task Response = 25%
No conclusion – band score 5 for this
criteria
In conclusion, (summarize the main ideas
of the essay)

97.

98.

99. Look at these three conclusions and sum up

100.

101. 04. Linking phrases

102.

Listing
Firstly
Secondly
another
point to
consider
a further
consideratio
n
another
issue lastly
/last but not
least / finally
Adding
information
in addition
additionally
Furthermore
Moreover
also
not only …
but also
as well as
and
Giving
examples
for example
one clear
example is
for instance
such as
namely
to illustrate
in other
words
Result and
consequence
as a result
Consequently
Therefore
Thus
Hence
So for this
reason
Highlighting
and
Stressing
Particularly
in particular
Specifically
Especially
Obviously
of course
clearly

103.

Concession and
contrast
Admittedly
However
Nevertheless
Even though
Although
But
despite
in spite of
Still
on the other
hand
by contrast
in comparison
Alternatively
another option
would be
Reasons clauses
Because
owing to
due to
Since
as
Giving opinion
in my opinion
I think
I believe
I admit
in my view
I concur / agree
I disagree / I
cannot accept

104. Practice