IELTS / TOEFL: How to Solve IELTS Writing Task 2 - Discussion - Discuss Both Views - Essays

How to Solve: IELTS Writing Task 2 – Discussion (Discuss Both Views) Essays

Introduction Scoring 8+ in IELTS Writing Task 2 can boost your overall band score by 1-2 points, making it a game-changer for university applications and visa requirements.

WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW FIRST You should already have:

1. The ability to paraphrase complex sentences.
2. Knowledge of essay structure, including introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
3. Familiarity with common essay vocabulary and phrases.

CORE CONTENT

Anatomy of the task

• The question will ask you to discuss both views on a particular topic, usually with a prompt like "Some people believe that...", "Others argue that...", or "There are two sides to the issue of...".
• You will be expected to produce a well-structured essay with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion.
• Common traps include:
  • Failing to address both views equally.
  • Not providing enough evidence to support your arguments.
  • Writing a biased or one-sided essay.

Step-by-step strategy

1. Read and understand the question: Identify the topic, the two views, and the prompt.
2. Plan your essay structure: Decide on the main points you want to cover in each body paragraph.
3. Write a clear introduction: Introduce the topic, provide background information, and state your thesis statement.
4. Write body paragraphs: Present both views, using evidence and examples to support each argument.
5. Write a conclusion: Summarize the main points, reiterate your thesis statement, and provide a final thought.
6. Use linking words and phrases: Connect your ideas with words like "however", "in addition", and "nevertheless".
7. Use vocabulary and phrases: Use complex vocabulary and phrases to describe the views and your arguments.

Solved example

Question: Some people believe that universities should prioritize academic research over teaching. Others argue that universities should focus on teaching and providing students with practical skills. Discuss both views.

Model answer:

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about the role of universities in society. Some people believe that universities should prioritize academic research over teaching, while others argue that universities should focus on teaching and providing students with practical skills. In this essay, I will discuss both views and argue that universities should strike a balance between research and teaching.

On the one hand, prioritizing academic research can lead to breakthroughs in various fields and contribute to the advancement of knowledge. For example, research in medicine has led to the development of new treatments and cures for diseases. However, some argue that this focus on research can lead to a neglect of teaching and the needs of students.

On the other hand, prioritizing teaching and practical skills can equip students with the skills they need to succeed in the workforce. For instance, universities can provide students with internships and work experience, which can help them develop practical skills and build their professional networks. However, some argue that this focus on teaching can lead to a lack of innovation and progress in various fields.

In conclusion, while both views have their merits, I believe that universities should strike a balance between research and teaching. By doing so, universities can provide students with a well-rounded education that prepares them for the workforce while also contributing to the advancement of knowledge.

Common Mistakes

1. Mistake: Failing to address both views equally.
   • Why it happens: Students may be biased towards one view or may not have enough time to discuss both views.
   • How to fix it: Make sure to allocate equal space to both views and provide evidence to support each argument.
2. Mistake: Not providing enough evidence to support your arguments.
   • Why it happens: Students may not have enough knowledge or resources to provide evidence.
   • How to fix it: Conduct research and gather evidence from credible sources to support your arguments.
3. Mistake: Writing a biased or one-sided essay.
   • Why it happens: Students may be passionate about one view and may not want to discuss the opposing view.
   • How to fix it: Make sure to discuss both views equally and provide evidence to support each argument.
4. Mistake: Not using linking words and phrases.
   • Why it happens: Students may not know how to connect their ideas.
   • How to fix it: Use linking words and phrases like "however", "in addition", and "nevertheless" to connect your ideas.
5. Mistake: Not using vocabulary and phrases.
   • Why it happens: Students may not know how to use complex vocabulary and phrases.
   • How to fix it: Use a thesaurus and vocabulary lists to learn new words and phrases.

CRAM SHEET

1. Always read and understand the question before starting to write.
2. Plan your essay structure before starting to write.
3. Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas.
4. Provide evidence to support your arguments.
5. Discuss both views equally.
6. Use complex vocabulary and phrases to describe the views and your arguments.
7. Make sure to allocate equal space to both views.
8. Use a clear and concise writing style.
9. Avoid using first person pronouns (I, me, my).
10. ⚠️ Don't forget to proofread your essay for grammar and spelling errors.