Is it vital to know the different question types in IELTS writing?

What is the first thing that you need to know in taking an examination?


For starters, examinees will always look for the coverage of the examination. They need to know what the possible questions are for the test. With these possible questions, examinees will be able to make an outline and focus more on the topics for the test. Second, examinees will need to know the different question types to be used in the exam. They need to know the strategy they will be using to get the right answers. The same thing happens for examinees of the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination.


IELTS test takers are very concerned with their score since they need it for their visa applications. One thing they do to prepare for the test is to acquire information on the question types particularly in the IELTS Writing.

The IELTS writing questions are different in both Academic and General Training module. In the Academic writing, the first task asks the examinee to describe a graph or a diagram. The graph can be pie charts, bar and line graphs. Diagrams are usually process diagrams. On the other hand, in the General Training, the examinee will have to make a letter in the first task. Both Academic and General Training’s second task is an independent question which the examinee has to express his or her idea on a given statement.


Given this, is it important for an examinee to know these different types of questions? 


The answer is YES! Here are some reasons why:

• Learning writing strategies is important to get a good score. When candidates know the type of questions they will be facing, they will be given time to develop certain skills that will help them compose good essays. Further, brainstorming and organizing of ideas will be easier.


• Like what they usually say, practice makes perfect. IELTS candidates will be able to undergo mock exams to test their writing skills. This will give them more time to understand the scoring criteria to better their writing.


• Readiness is crucial. Candidates become more confident when they know what they are going to answer. Knowing the questions will help them write confidently resulting to a well-written essay.


The IELTS writing test is not complicated. IELTS candidates all have to do is to gather as much information about the test, do a lot of writing practices, and participate in IELTS writing classes as much as possible.


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Effective Tips on How to Interpret a Diagram in the IELTS Writing

Have you ever been asked to interpret a diagram? Have you found it to be easy or really challenging?

Interpreting diagrams is known to be one of the types of questions in the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System writing test. This is the first task of the said writing test in the Academic module of the test. The Academic module is already famous for its challenging questions and this diagram interpretation is one of the many difficult tasks for the candidates to take.

A diagram type of question can be a picture showing charts or processes. Candidates need to closely study the diagram and outline points that he or she has to include in the writing. Let’s have an example:

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagram below shows the process of using water to produce electricity.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words

How to write a response based on this diagram?

1. Make sure that you have a clearly stated introduction. In general, describe what is being shown in the diagram. 

2. List down all the necessary vocabulary you need to use in describing the picture. Choose the right vocabulary to clearly show what is in the picture. 

3. Since the example show how electricity is possible through hydropower, show what happens in every stage in the diagram. 

4. Processes should be written in an organized way. Clearly show that B happens because of A and so on. 

5. Use transition words to show what is happening.

6. Use verb tenses that will describe the process. In this case, the present tenses are useful. 

7. Make use of the passive form of the verb. The passive form of the verb is used when the subject of your sentences is the receiver of the action. As you can see on the picture, the focus on the activities. 

8. Be sure to describe the equipment of objects involved in the process. 

9. Create separate paragraphs to describe each stage of the process.

10. Check on your spelling and use of punctuations. 

Sample response:

The diagram shows the production of electricity using water. This process is also known as generation of hydroelectric power. 

Both the sun and the wind play a crucial part in this process. The heat of the sun warms up sea water. As it evaporates, it forms clouds in the atmosphere. With the help of the wind, the clouds are blown towards reservoirs. As the clouds get heavier and bigger, rain happens. This rain water is collected in dams or reservoirs. 

When the dam is filled with water, a valve is open to let water move towards a turbine in an underground man-made tunnel. As water flows in the turbine, it generates electricity. The water that has been generating water in the turbine returns back to dam through an underground pump. This electricity flows in high voltage cable to transformer stations. From these stations, the electricity stored is distributed to houses, schools, or any facilities connected through the wires. 

The process diagram is easy once you come up with an outline showing the step-by-step flow of the diagram. Hence, the best thing to do is to write an outline for your essay before doing the writing. 

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IELTS Letter Writing for the General Training Module

Writing letters are easier than academic writing. This is a fact that IELTS General Training candidates will definitely agree with. The IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination has a letter writing task on its General Training Writing Section. Though it is easier than the graph interpretation in the Academic Writing, exercises should be practiced to hone the writing skills of the candidate. To further improve and better your skills, here are some tips for the letter writing section of the IELTS test.

1. Make sure to understand what the task is all about. Knowing what to write is a key point in writing.
2. Since it is a letter writing task, always write a greeting and a closing.
3. There are some tasks that need to be responded in the letter. Double check if all tasks are answered. Failure to do so can result to a low score.
4. Check your grammar. Be consistent with your tenses. The flow of the verb tenses should be smooth and with the right transitions.
5. Know the tone of your letter. There are some tasks wherein you need to write in a formal tone since you are writing to a professor or a boss. While some tasks need to be in an informal writing tone since it is addressed to friends.
6. Choose the right words or vocabulary in your sentence. Make sure it suits the tone of your letter.
7. Check the number of words you have. You will lose some points if your letter is below 150 words.
8. Spelling check. Since it is a paper-based test, be extra careful in committing mistakes on spelling.
9. Use transition words if possible.
10. Use correct punctuation marks on your sentences.


Sample Task 1 General Training letter

Question:

You live in a room in college which you share with another student. However, there are many problems with this arrangement and you find it very difficult to work. 

Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In the letter, 

• describe the situation 
• explain your problems and why it is difficult to work 
• say what kind of accommodation you would prefer

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing this letter about my problems with my accommodation here in the university, particularly with my roommate. 

As you know, I am currently sharing a room with another student. I really do not have a problem sharing a room with someone; however, my roommate has been very inconsiderate for the past few weeks. During the first few months of living together, everything was going smoothly until recently. He has been bringing friends over the room and they stay until the early morning. They talk so loud that I cannot concentrate on my work and sleep as well. I have talked to him about this but he seemed not to take things seriously. Last night, I came home and saw him using my computer without even asking for my permission. This is really upsetting. The finals are in two weeks and I am so stressed living with him. 

With this, I am asking from your office to find me a single room. I would not mind paying a little extra as long as I am relaxed and comfortable with the room. 

I am hoping to hearing from you soon. 

Truly, 

James

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Contractions in the IELTS Writing Test – Are They Allowed?

Writing itself is already difficult, what more if you have to write an essay for an English proficiency exam?

English proficiency exams have been very popular in the Philippines for many years now. Hundred and even thousands of individuals take these exams as a requirement in getting a job or entering a university overseas. One of the most taken English exams is the International English Language Testing System examination. Like any other exams, it has a very challenging writing section.

The IELTS Writing section is aimed to evaluate how well one can express himself or herself in written text. In detail, the writing task gauges an individual’s fluency in coming up with an essay in given graphs or ideas. In the IELTS writing test, there are two tasks the candidate has to complete.

Many tips are given on how to ace the IELTS examination. In addition, do’s and don’ts have also been detailed. Among these is the use of contractions in the essay. What are contractions?

Contractions are short forms of words in the English language. In conversations, contractions are often used. However, for an English fluency exam such as the IELTS writing test, it is best avoided in writing formal letters and essays which is in the Academic module. Instead, candidates are asked to write the full forms of these words. Conversely, if asked to write an informal letter, contractions may be used. What are common contractions in English? Here is a list of common contractions used in English.

Can’t (cannot)	The government cannot implement a new rule unless it is signed and approved by the Supreme Court. We cannot fathom the reason for this diemma.
Don’t (do not) Doesn’t (does not)	We do not allow civilians to walk at night. She does not know how to react to such issues.
I’d (I had/I would)	I had a fever last night so I went to bed straight. I would rather live in the country than experience negative things in the city.
I’ll (I will/I shall)	I will let you know about my decision. I shall return with your package.
Mightn’t (might not)	Children might not understand the purpose of the project. She might not show up during the pageant.
They’re (they are)	They are given three chances to change their answers. They are always late for the meeting.
Who’ve (who have)	They were the people who have met the president. Those children who have blue shoes should be in one group.
You’ve (you have)	You have had a tough night. Get some rest. You have experienced a great deal of pain with him.
That’s (that is/that has)	That is what you get from lying. That is right.
I’m (I am)	I am writing this letter to inform you regarding my absence. I am definitely tired from too much writing.

Avoid contractions in writing formal letters. Stick to the rules and your writing will surely get a good band score in the IELTS. 

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IELTS Writing Task 2

Free writing is one style that many enjoy doing. In free writing, a person has the own will to write anything on any topic that he or she has in mind. Free writing is a fun way in practicing skills for a more serious essay type. In taking the International English Language Testing System examination (IELTS), a writing section will test how one can show off his or her skills in writing. In this part of the examination, the candidate will be able to show how well he or she could express his or her ideas through the usage of appropriate vocabulary and effective grammar and sentence structures.

The IELTS writing examination has two tasks and is different on both Academic and General Training Modules. In the second task of the General Training Writing, the candidate is asked to write a letter based on a given situation. Most of the time, the candidate will be asked to write a letter in response to a given situation. This letter should be of at least 150 words. Here is an example question on this task.
Last month, you had a holiday overseas where you stayed with some friends. They have just sent you some photos of your holiday.

Write a letter to your friends. In your letter
• Thank them for the photos and for the holiday
• Explain why you didn’t write earlier
• Invite them to come and stay with you
How to get a good score?
1. Make sure you have responded to the tasks. Missing one is a huge deduction on your score.
2. Be friendly with the tone, if it is possible, one task should be written on a separate paragraph.
3. The tone of your letter should depend on the recipient of the letter.
4. Do not forget to close your letter by writing a closing remark together with your name.
5. Check spelling and any grammatical errors.

In the second task of the Academic writing, the candidate is given a statement wherein his or her opinion should be expressed. The candidate should be able to write an essay with 240 words in 40 minutes. Here is an example question:

It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

How to score well on this?
1. If the task asks you to discuss the views presented, make sure you discuss it and provide reasons through examples. Cite examples that will make your response strong.
2. In giving your own opinion, make sure you support your ideas with examples. Examples do not necessarily be true, but these are details that will make your idea clear and well-explained.
3. Always have a clear introduction by restating the given topic. Write at least two supporting paragraphs and a conclusion.
4. Go straight to the point. Do not repeat your ideas within the essay. This will just result to a low score.
5. Check spelling and grammar errors.

Take note on these tips and you will surely get a good score in the IELTS Writing Task 2 exam.

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Popular IELTS Essay Writing Topics

Being able to know what topics are covered in an exam is an advantage to any test taker.  If you know what topics are to be covered, you will be able to focus more in studying and it will save time as well. In taking an English proficiency examination such as the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination, knowing what topics are included will make reviewing easier.

The IELTS writing test is different in both Academic and General Training module. In the Academic module, candidates are given a data, graph or even a chart which the candidate has to describe in the first task. On the other hand, the first task in the General Training module requires a candidate to write a correspondence based on a given situation. The second tasks for both modules are just the same in nature – independent writing.

Here are some topics and questions that are popular in the IELTS essay writing.

1. The chart below shows the amount of leisure time enjoyed by men and women of different employment status. Write a report for a university lecturer describing the information shown below.

2. Chorley is a village near London whose population has increased steadily since the middle of nineteenth century. The map below shows the development of the village.

Write a report for a university lecturer describing the development of the village. 

3. The chart below shows the amount of money per week spent on fast foods in Britain. The graph shows the trends in consumption of fast foods. Write a report for a university lecturer describing the information shown below.

4. You have had a bank account for a few years. Recently you received a letter from the bank stating that your account is $240 overdrawn and that you will be charged $70 which will be taken directly from your account. You know that this information is incorrect.

Write a letter to the bank. Explain what has happened and say what you would like them to do about it.

5. You borrowed some books from your school or college library. Unfortunately you have to go away to visit a sick relative and cannot return the books in time. Write a letter to the library. Explain what has happened and tell them what you want to do about it.

6. Some governments say how many children a family can have in their country. They may control the number of children someone has through taxes. It is sometimes necessary and right for a government to control the population in this way. Do you agree or disagree?

 7. We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers. They are used in business, hospitals, crime detection and even to fly planes. What things will they be used in the future? Is this dependence on computers a good thing or should we be more suspicious of their benefits?

8. Do you agree or disagree with the following statements?

The idea of having a single career is becoming an old fashioned one. The new fashion mil be to have several careers or ways of earning money and further education will be something that continues throughout life.

9.  News editor decide what to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you think influence these decisions? Do we become used to bad news? Would it be better if more good news was reported?

10. Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and education? Or is it the responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to look after their citizens themselves?

Source: Cambridge Practice Test for the IELTS

Now, let us look at a sample response for the IELTS writing task 2.

Question:

Using a computer every day can have more negative than positive effects on children. Do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
In today's modern world, computers are an essential part of everyday life. Around the globe, children often use computers from a very young age. Although it is important for children to participate in various well-balanced activities, in my opinion, children who use the computer daily are actually developing a critical skill for future success. The bases for my views are personal, academic, and professional.

From a personal point of view, computers are an invaluable resource to help young people explore the world around them. For example, children who use Internet to satisfy their curiosity about diverse topics are already becoming independent learners. No child with a computer is ever bored! By starting early in their lives, children feel totally at ease around computers; they are also able to take advantage of the wide range of services computers provide.

From an academic viewpoint, children have no choice but to master this technological invention. For instance, when I was in university, students brought their laptops to class to take notes, do research and exchange information. They wrote assignments, created presentations and developed databases. Children who build early confidence and experience in these abilities are at a distinct advantage over those who have not.

From a professional perspective, the computer has found a permanent place in the workplace. Today, employers still pay to provide computer training to their employees. Tomorrow, corporations will expect prospective job applicants to already possess these critical job skills. Consequently, parents who encourage their child to use the computer for a reasonable period of time daily are in fact investing in the child's future career.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that the computer as a technological tool is here to stay. The sooner children become computer-literate, the better for many aspects of their future lives.

Source: http://www.goodluckielts.com/IELTS-sample-essay.html

Most of the time, questions in the IELTS writing cover the topics about government, education, health, modern society, family, gender-related issues, employment, the environment, technology and social issues. Start scribbling down your notes on the given topics and have someone check and rate your writing. Through this, you will be able to learn your strengths and weaknesses in writing essays. 

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Why Go Abroad?

A lot of people – especially those who are claim to be nationalistic – say that going abroad is a selfish thing to do and that it does nothing to help those who are left behind. This is a sad generalization of the situation. We all know that the Philippines’s primary product is our excellent manpower.  The truth be told, becoming an Overseas Filipino Worker has many advantages that benefit not just the OFW and the family, but the Philippines as a country as well.

Here are some reasons why you should consider going abroad, especially in countries like the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and New Zealand.

1.    The taxes actually go somewhere. A touchy subject, given that there has not been a time where the Philippines has not had issues in misuse of public funds. In the United States, they will go after anyone who does not pay their tax correctly. Look at that certain Filipino boxer who allegedly owes the US government money! The difference is in the US (and other countries mentioned above for that matter), you can actually feel your money going into making people’s lives better instead of lining politician’s pockets.

2.       It’s an educational experience. Regardless of going abroad to study, work, or simply migrate and be with your loved ones, visiting another country means being able to immerse yourself in another culture and practice your language skills. That, in itself, is reward for going to another country.

3.       If you want the best education, the best schools are abroad. We may have UP, ADMU, La Salle, and UST which are really wonderful schools. But the United States has Harvard and Yale and the UK has Cambridge University and Oxford. The education these foreign schools can give are the best in the world, if university rankings are to be believed.

4.       You will be empowered to financially support your family and to help the country have a more stable economy. Money talks, and when it comes to revenue, OFWs have it better. The salary they earn abroad is more than what they can earn here – unless you are on the very top of the corporate ladder. And of course, such money would be helpful to keeping the Philippines.

There are so many advantages of pursuing a life overseas. Think about it. Think really hard.

Good luck!

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How to Write the Best Essay for the IELTS

Have you had a hard time writing an effective essay? Is composing essays a difficult task to do?
Writing is not everybody’s forte. Coming up with the right and strong ideas for an essay takes a lot of practice and training. Most importantly, writing essays in the writing section of the IELTS or the International English Language Testing System examination must be done with appropriateness and relevance. For this reason, many candidates for the IELTS test – working individuals or students – allot time to join in IELTS review classes. This preparation is needed to learn skills and strategies for the test most especially in the writing section.
The writing section in the Academic and General Training differs on their first task. On the Academic writing, the first task requires the candidate to write an essay interpreting a given data like charts, graphs or a process diagram. On the other hand, the General Training asks the candidate to compose a letter based on a given situation. Their task 2 questions are quite the same as candidates showcase their opinions on a given statement. However, the question all candidates ask to coaches in IELTS review centers is – how can we write the best essay for the IELTS? Here are some tips on how to make your compositions the best for the writing test.
• It is always important to know the three important parts of an essay – the introduction, body, and conclusion. The introduction contains a paraphrase of the idea of the task you are going to write. The body should be at least two paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a point or reason supported by details and examples. The conclusion is a paraphrase of the introduction or the summary of the all the ideas presented in the essay.
• Showcase good vocabulary. Remember that in any writing piece, it is being rated with how well the writer uses vocabulary. Do not overuse the same words over and over again in the essay. Instead, use expressions like idioms to better explain or describe an idea you want to express. However, make sure that you are using these words correctly or your essay will end up confusing.
• Avoid using abbreviations or short forms of words. For example, instead of using the word “can’t”, use “cannot.”
• Keep track on the flow of your essay. There are times that candidates overwrite his or her ideas. As a result, the content does not have a smooth flow. It is better to outline the ideas first prior to writing the whole essay.
Practice makes perfect; hence, coaches in IELTS review centers keep on giving writing practices to their candidates. With constant exposure to different writing questions, candidates will become more comfortable and familiar with writing essays.

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