IELTS Writing Manual Strategies and Techniques

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ESSAY WRITING TYPE 1: OPINION ESSAY

CONSIDERATIONS:

It is an opinion essay if: !

a. The task rubric contains a statement and the writers task is to either agree or disagree.

Example: Disruptive school students have a negative influence on others. Students who are noisy and disobedient should be grouped together and taught separately. Do you agree or disagree?

b. The question contains a statement and the writers task is to express his opinion.

Example: University education should be restricted to the very best academic students rather than being available to a large portion of young people. What is your opinion?

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IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

OUTLINE OF TYPE 1OUTLINE OF TYPE 1OUTLINE OF TYPE 1

1st Paragraph Introduction 1. Restatement of the Essay Question2. Writers Stand

2nd Paragraph Concession1. One idea of those who think

otherwise2. Explanation

3rd Paragraph Rebuttal 1. Why concession is unacceptable2. Explanation

4th Paragraph Second Argument 1. Another reason for the writers stand2. Explanation

5th Paragraph Conclusion Restatement of the 1st Paragraph OR Summary of the main points OR Provide recommendations

Writers Stand:(Agree) I definitely embrace the same philosophy; Without a doubt, I uphold the said notion; I fully subscribe to this statement.

(Disagree) I personal ly think otherwise; This is one thought I would like to disagree with; My views, on the other hand, are a contradiction to this.

Concession:It goes without saying that It is true, of course, that There is no getting around the fact that The idea in question holds some water in that It cannot be denied that No one can deny the fact that In part, it is correct to say that There is a grain of truth in thinking that...

Rebuttal:Conversely Nevertheless Yet Contrarily A much sounder point of view is that The problem with the preceding view is that...

Second Argument:Moreover In addition Another sound reason is Another substantial thought is that Likewise Furthermore One more important consideration is ...

Conclusion:To conclude In conclusion In summary To summarize Overall To wrap up To sum up...

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SAMPLES: OPINION ESSAY

Sample A:

Students are sent to school not only for academic preparation but also for character building. To prevent the stubborn students from influencing their classmates, many propose that they be grouped separately. This is one proposal I would like to disagree with.

In part, it is correct to say that the noise and the unteachable character of students negatively influence the learning of others. Since young learners indiscriminately follow what they see from peers, the negative attitude students have towards their studies may lead others to behave similarly. However, I feel that grouping these ill-mannered students may just aggravate the situation. First of all, it is likely that their influence and force become stronger as they get to spend more time with each other. Instead of enabling them to change by letting them appreciate the benefits of behaving in class, teachers deprive them of this chance by clustering them with their fellow noisy students.

One more important consideration is that this may rob children the chance of learning how to cope with real life. In life, everybody needs to know how to face adversaries that include bullying. It is only when students mingle with others that they learn how to stave off trouble and overcome any form of distraction.

Overall, I feel that it would not be that good if school authorities group disruptive students as this will just worsen the situation and will never prepare the students face the real world. What is more urgent is for teachers and parents to coordinate hand in hand to address the core of the problem. Physically separating students based on their behavior is just a mere act of scratching the surface.

(280 words)

Sample B:

Because of too many students taking up college degrees, some suggest that access to education be given only to those who perform best in their academic pursuits. This is one proposition I highly disagree with.

It is true, of course, that college education is expensive that is why most governments find it difficult to fund schools to cater to all aspiring students. As such, state-funded schools have limited slots to offer and, more often than not, the priority is given to students with higher scholastic records.

Yet, one concern that needs to be addressed if this suggestion were to be applied is the fact that not all brilliant students become successful in life. The problem on budget may be squarely addressed if only the few brilliant students are allowed to proceed to college, but it is never a guarantee that all of these great minds produce great works in the future.

In addition, college education deals with more specialized and technical fields. If the number of students allowed to take university degrees is tapered, a host of tasks that call for specialist knowledge may not be fulfilled. It is important to produce regular supply of professionals so that the needs of the modern world are constantly met. The proposition, however, will certainly undermine the demands of globalization.

To conclude, I do not agree that the opportunities to go to universities and colleges be enjoyed only by the few bright students. Every student stands a chance to change. Another worthy of consideration is that success in high school does not always equate to productivity in real life.

(267 words)



IELTS Strategies and Techniques ! 8

TYPE 2: BALANCED-ARGUMENT ESSAY

CONSIDERATIONS:

It is a balanced-argument essay if: !

a. The task rubric contains two views or situations and the writers task is to discuss each and to present his own views.

Example: Some people say that the poor only have themselves to blame. Others think otherwise. Discuss each statement. What is your own opinion?

b. The question contains a statement about an occurrence and the writers task is to identify whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

Example: Interracial marriages are a common practice nowadays. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?




1st View (Topic Sentence)

A number of people believe that A considerable number of people subscribe to the idea that Some people think that Many are convinced that...OUTLINE OF TYPE 2OUTLINE OF TYPE 2OUTLINE OF TYPE 2

1st Paragraph Introduction 1. Restatement of Task Rubric2. Writers choice (optional)

2nd Paragraph 1st View

1. Topic Sentence (Main View)2. 1st idea3. Explanation 4. 2nd Idea5. Explanation

3rd Paragraph 2nd View


4th Paragraph Writers View 1. Writers Choice2. Explanation 2nd View (Topic Sentence)

On the other hand, others think differently In contrast, many believe that the reverse is true On the contrary, a great deal of people uphold the opposite view.

Writers View:

To my mind In my point of view Personally As I see it I truly believe I am fully convinced that...

Expressions used in enumerating ideas:

(First) The first idea that springs to mind is P r i m a r i l y T h e m o s t o b v i o u s i s Predominantly Most importantly One exceedingly important (benefit/reason) is that

(Second) Another equally important (benefit/reason) is that No one can overlook the fact that Another (benefit/reason) that is worth noting is that Another worthy of consideration is that Palpably.

(Third/Final) Lastly Finally Similarly...

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SAMPLES: BALANCED-ARGUMENT ESSAY




Sample A:

The world never ceases to grapple with poverty and, whenever this issue is tackled, the question about who should be blamed often springs to mind. Are the poor solely to be blamed or are there other contributory factors that make it difficult for them to improve their lives?

A number of people blame the poor for their plight because the poor seemingly aggravate their own living conditions. Apparently, they are those who disregard family planning. Another reason is their somewhat defeatist attitude. Even if they have been wallowing in abject poverty all their lives, they tend to carry this misfortune with total resignation for the years to come.

Nevertheless, others point their fingers to the government for its utter neglect. To them, poverty continues to worsen because the state is remiss in its responsibility of giving the poor better access to education and humane job conditions. The current system makes it impossible for the poor to upgrade their lives. Wherever they turn to, the poor cannot look for decent jobs because they do not have the qualifications they can only apparently achieve if they were not poor. One obvious example of this is a completed college degree.

To my mind, both the poor and the society have to be faulted. In the Philippines, for example, most poor Filipinos do nothing to better their conditions. Conversely, the society is also responsible because not enough laws are made to help the hapless people uplift their status in life. Truly, poverty is an age-old problem but much can be done if only most people realize that it is not the poor who are solely to be blamed for their predicament.

(278 words)

Sample B:

Marriage is universally celebrated with anticipation, yet it is often cast with a glint of doubt if it involves two persons with different colors and creeds.

When people from different cultures tie the knot, a number of positive things happen. Firstly, this marriage can offer a brighter future to either, if not both, of the marrying partners. Interracial marriages generally take place between people from rich countries and those that grow up in poor countries. This marital partnership can then open better opportunities to those who have been living in destitution all their lives. Secondly, the sharing of cultures between partners will benefit both parties concerned. Every dealing is an eye-opener and their respective horizons are definitely broadened in this bond.

Nevertheless, a number of setbacks are also present whenever two totally different persons live under one roof. Misunderstanding is bound to happen whenever their beliefs clash and this might lead to serious fights between the couple. Another problem would be the growing confusion on the part of the children who will live with people who are not totally like them. In time, they will realize their differences from each of their respective parents and this might alienate them from the rest of the people in their community.

In my point of view, interracial marriages are so common these days that their effects, whether positive or negative, cannot be overemphasized anymore. A number of happy-ending stories are told about this set-up and there are also a considerable number that end in tragedy. I believe what matters the most is that the said marriage is entered into because both parties are willing to defy the odds just to make their marriage work.

(284 words)

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TYPE 3: ENUMERATIVE ESSAY

CONSIDERATIONS:

It is an enumerative essay if: !

The task rubric talks about a phenomenon and the writers task is to present:

a. Some of the problems and solutions associated with the given phenomenon.b. Some of the causes and effects borne from the mentioned phenomenon.c. Some of the phenomenons advantages and disadvantages. d. Any two or three independent questions

Examples:

a. Many young children are becoming obese nowadays. Cite the causes and the effects.

b. Many people believe that the high levels of violence in films today are causing serious social problems. What are these problems and how could they be reduced?




OUTLINE OF TYPE 3OUTLINE OF TYPE 3OUTLINE OF TYPE 3

1st Paragraph Introduction1. Restatement of the Essay

Question2. Rephrase of Tasks

2nd Paragraph Discussion of the 1st Task


3rd Paragraph Discussion of the 2nd Task


4th Paragraph Conclusion

Restatement of the 1st Paragraph OR

Discussion on how feasible the solutions are OR

Discussion on the challenges

Expressions used in enumerating ideas:

Topic Sentences:

A number of (bad things/good things) c a n b e d e r i v e d f r o m T h e ( o c c u r r e n c e ) i s b e n e fi c i a l /disadvantageous (First) The first (ADVANTAGE/DISADVANTAGE) that springs to mind is Primarily The most obvious is Predominantly Most importantly One exceedingly important (benefit/reason) is that

(Second) Another equally important (benefit/reason) is that No one can overlook the fact that Another (benefit/reason) that is worth noting is t h a t A n o t h e r w o r t h y o f consideration is that Palpably.

(Third/Final) Lastly Finally Similarly...

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SAMPLE: ENUMERATIVE ESSAY




Sample A.

Children nowadays face a number of problems which before were mostly restricted to adults and one of these is obesity. What causes obesity among kids and what happens if this problem is not mitigated? These are the questions I will discuss in this essay.

There are a host of factors why an increasing number of children go beyond their ideal body weight nowadays. For one, the rigorous work schedule of the parents leaves some kids unsupervised. As a result, children eat whatever they want and they miss out on important physical activities since their parents are most of the time not at home to guide them. The mass media is also partly to blame for encouraging the public to choose processed goods in the name of convenience and commerce. Instead of guiding the viewers to eat healthily, TV programs seem to be one in promoting products that are laden with unhealthy preservatives and additives.

If not acted upon, child obesity will lead to serious negative effects. Death and sickness rates among children will alarmingly rise since diabetes and cardiovascular diseases will manifest early. Inevitably, their studies will suffer as well as their dealings with other children. Hence, their self-esteem lowers and they shall fail to enjoy the kind of life that they are supposed to liveone that is stress-free and unrestrained.

Everything children experience takes root at home. It is therefore the primary responsibility of parents to supervise their kids to obtain proper nutrition and good health. If parents assume this responsibility seriously, many young children will definitely be spared from the debilitating effects notoriously associated with obesity.

(271 words)

Sample B.

The increasing amount of violence that is shown regularly in films has been a cause of concern for some time. Such films make violence appear entertaining, exciting and even something to be copied. However, it seems to be increasingly clear that this development is causing problems in our society.

If not controlled, the rise in violence in films can lead to a number of detrimental effects. First of all, those who enjoy such films eventually stop associating the violence with any real consequences. They therefore lose their sense of reality and no longer take violence seriously or have any sympathy with the victims. This is bad for both individuals and for our whole society. Another worrying trend is that in these films the heroes are shown as people to be admired, even though they are very violent characters. This leads impressionable people to believe that they can gain respect and admiration by copying this aggressive behavior, and so the levels of violence increase, especially in major cities throughout the world.

What is needed to combat these problems is definite action. The government should regulate the film industry on the one hand, and provide better education on the other. Producers must be prevented from showing meaningless violence as fun in their films. Instead , f i lms could emphasize the t ragic consequences of violent acts and this would educate people, especially young people, to realize that violence is real.

To conclude, I think that viewing violence as entertainment may indeed cause serious social problems and that the only way to improve this situation is by regulating the industry and educating the public about the real human suffering that such violence brings.

(277 words)

12

Review: What is the most suitable essay type to answer the following questions?

________ 1. The cost of air flights has reduced sharply nowadays. Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? Give your reasons.

________ 2. Advertisements of toys and fast foods are harmful to kids. Do you agree or disagree?

________ 3. Consumer goods become cheaper now. Do you think advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages?

________ 4. There are many products, but only some of them meet the peoples needs. Even without advertising, these products will sell well. What is your opinion?

________ 5. Young people are spending too much time watching TV. What do you think of this and how do you think this problem could be solved?

________ 6. Children are experiencing social, educational, and commercial pressure. What are the causes to this pressure? What measures can be taken to reduce this pressure?

________ 7. Many people keep dogs and cats as companions. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of pet ownership for the animals involved and for the community as a whole

________ 8. Some people think that music has a significant role in the society. Others think that it is just a form of entertainment. Comment on both views. Give your own opinion.

________ 9. Some people say that teaching our children about international affairs in schools is a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree?

________ 10. Some people find visiting museums boring as a form of entertainment, while others believe that the role of museums is to educate people, not entertain. Discuss. What is your opinion?

________ 11. Home cooking tends to be a disappearing skill in some countries. How is it in your country? Do you think all children should be taught about home cooking?

________ 12. In todays world, career is the only vital thing in a persons life. What is your opinion?




Task 1 Writing (Academic)A. Graphs and Charts

Considerations:

For Task 1, writers are asked to describe a graph (line, bar), a chart (pie, tabular), or a combination of both. Often, a three-paragraph outline would suffice:

REMEMBER:

Construct sentences using the appropriate verb forms: use the past tense if the figures highlight past information, use the present tense if the figure shows general information, and the future tense if the figure shows forecasts.

Avoid giving unnecessary speculations by using words like maybe, because, perhaps.




Introduction:

The (figure) delineates, compares, describes,

pictures, portrays, reveals, exhibits, renders, displays, outlines, shows, presents

Body:

specifically, as delineated, in particular,

in addition, in the case

of, meanwhile, furthermore, moreover, also...

finally, lastly

Conclusion:

overall, clearly, all in all, on

the whole, by and large, in general, in conclusion, in summary, to conclude, to summarize, to sum up

OUTLINE FOR GRAPHS/CHARTSOUTLINE FOR GRAPHS/CHARTSOUTLINE FOR GRAPHS/CHARTS

1st Paragraph IntroductionRestatement of the Task Rubric

2nd Paragraph Details

Significant details: Describe trends Highlight ranks and

changes Compare and contrast

3rd Paragraph Conclusion

Overall trend: Highlight relationships

among variables Highlight the most striking

feature

14

Sample 1: Linear Graph

The graph below shows in percentage terms the changing patterns of domestic access to modern technology in homes in the UK.

Paragraph 1. What is the study all about?The linear graph compares in percentage the changes to access to technological advancements in the homes in the UK from 1996 to 2002.

Paragraph 2: What are the relevant specific ideas?

First of all, it appears that the CD player was the most popular technology with ownership ranging from about 60% in 1996 to approximately 82% of the homes in the UK. Although in a much lower scale, home computers had a nearly parallel growth with the CD player, unlike the mobile phones which had an ownership rate that tripled in a course of six years (18% to 70%). Lastly, the newest technology introduced was the Internet. From 10% in 1998, about 43% of the households used it in 2002.

Paragraph 3: What are the relevant general ideas?

Overall, the graph illustrates that an increasing number of households in the UK had owned the popular technologies listed above. Of all the four, however, the Internet shows the greatest degree of penetration considering that it was only introduced four years before the end of the study. 159 words




Sample 2: Bar Graph

The graph below shows the contribution of three sectorsagriculture, manufacturing, and business and financial servicesto the UK economy in the twentieth century.

The bar graph compares the contribution of agriculture, manufacturing, and business and financial services sectors to the economy of the UK from 1900 to 2000.

In the first half of the century, the economy of the UK depended mostly on agriculture, which shared nearly 50% and 55% of the countrys resources in 1900 and 1950, respectively. However, this trend changed in the second half of the previous millennium when it only contributed 10% and almost insignificantly (2%) in 1975 and 2000, respectively. On the other hand, while the manufacturing sector had been contributing less gradually to the UK economy over the course of the century, the business and financial sectors had been gaining ground in a similar steady fashion from 1950 to 1975. The latters share to the economy, however, increased quite dramatically in 2000 to about 40%.

The graph clearly shows that the UK economy had been depending less and less on agriculture and manufacturing over a course of 100 years and that in 2000 its economy was primarily run by the business and financial sectors. It is also worth mentioning that at the end of the 20th century, the economy of the UK no longer depended only on the three highlighted sectors as their total contribution no longer reached 100%.

212 words

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Sample 3: Composite charts

The table below shows how young people in Tokyo, Japan listened to music over the previous month. The pie chart shows a record companys international findings about whether people preferred live or recorded music.

The composite charts compare the preference of Japanese men and women regarding how they listened to songs and whether they preferred live or recorded music.

Of those surveyed, more than three-quarters of men in Tokyo, Japan listened to songs through their MP3 players whereas a considerable number of women (44%) had their dose of songs by listening to live performances. Only 19% of Japanese men were reported to listen to songs via CDs, while 22% of the women respondents did this. This was evidently the only instance wherein women outnumbered men. As a whole, generally more men resorted to all four ways of listening to music, as delineated in the charts, than women with wider margins in listening to live music and in using MP3 players. Resorting to the Internet was considerably common among 55% of the men, yet was popular to only 42% of women.

Meanwhile, the pie chart shows that majority of young Japanese (70%) preferred to listen to live songs, while more than a quarter of them chose to listen to recorded song (26%).

In summary, the charts show the sizable popularity of live music among young Japanese people and that a considerable bulk preferred listening to their favorite recorded music through their MP3 players and the Internet.

211 words

Live music mp3 players Internet CDs

Male 60% 79% 55% 19%

Female 44% 40% 42% 22%

Preference




Tip:Use the following expressions when:

Composite figures. A combination of a graph and chart is given.

Composite charts.If a combination of a pie chart and a tabular chart is given.

Composite graphs.If a combination of a bar graph and a linear graph is given.

17

B. Diagrams

Considerations:

Reporting diagrams is still descriptive in nature only that here the writer highlights the logical order of events than the changes. For this, a three-paragraph report will still suffice:




OUTLINE FOR DIAGRAM REPORTSOUTLINE FOR DIAGRAM REPORTSOUTLINE FOR DIAGRAM REPORTS

1st Paragraph Introduction Restatement of the Task Rubric

2nd Paragraph Details

Describe the process in logical order: highlight what is first, next and

last highlight simultaneous events

3rd Paragraph ConclusionOverall trend: Present a general description

on how the process operates

Introduction:

The (figure) delineates, compares, describes, pictures, portrays, reveals, exhibits, renders, displays, outlines, shows, presents

Body:

first, first of all

after, afterward, as, at the same time, before, later, immediately, in the meantime, meanwhile, next, shortly, then, this time, simultaneously, subsequently

finally, lastly, ultimately, in the final phase

Conclusion:

overall, clearly, all in all, on the whole, by and large, in general, in conclusion, in summary, to conclude, to summarize, to sum up

18

Expressions to use:

Sample 4: Process Diagram (Flowchart)

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.The diagram below shows a companys recruitment process.Write a report for a university lecturer.You should write at least 150 words.




Letter sent

Application rejected

Letter sent

List of requirements is drawn up

Advertisement is placed in the newspaper

Applicant asks for application form

Applicant completes and returns the application form

Application opened and assessed

Application rejected Applicant invited for an interview

Interview

Successful applicant and runner up selected

Successful applicant offered the job

The diagram illustrates a companys application and recruitment process.

Firstly, the people responsible for the vacancy draw up a list of job requirements and these requirements are included in an advertisement, which is placed in a newspaper.

The applicant expresses interest in the job by asking for an application form. The application form is completed and returned by the applicant before a decision is made, whether or not to invite the applicant for an interview. If the candidate is rejected at this stage a letter is sent thanking him for the application. The other applicants are invited to attend an interview.

The selected applicants are interviewed and the interviewer decides on a successful applicant and a runner up. The successful candidate is offered the job. If the successful candidate refuses the job then the job is offered to the runner up. Unsuccessful candidates are sent a letter thanking them for attending the interview.

153 words

19

Sample 5: Process Diagram (Illustration)

Tips:1. Consistently use the present tense of the verb (note the underlined items in the sample below).2. Use a variety of expressions that indicate an order (see expressions in boldface in the sample below).3. Cluster the process into different phases to make it easy for the reader to follow your text.4. Add information if necessary to add meaning to some parts of the process and add length to your report.

However, do not overdo it.




The diagram illustrates how power is generated using water.

Hydro-electric power generation begins in the atmosphere where water vapors created by evaporation condense into clouds and, when heavy enough, fall as rain. Rainwater is then collected in large reservoirs such as a dam, from which water falls down, controlled by a valve, into a turbine down below creating mechanical energy. This mechanical energy is transmitted through high voltage cables that end in a transformer station. Water that flows through the turbine is pumped back to maintain the water level in the reservoir and keep the turbine running.

Meanwhile, in the transformer station, the mechanical energy is transformed into electrical energy. From here, the power is distributed through underground cables to the end-users such as the households, industries, hospitals and schools.

Overall, hydro-electric power is sustainable as it uses water, a bountiful natural resource. It is also clean as no waste is created in the process. 158 words

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Sample 6: Maps

Describing changes in maps is another critical skill that writers for the IELTS have to develop. It is similar to reporting graphs and charts as writers are often required to point out the general trends (in this case, the changes) and use appropriate language of comparison.

Tips:1. Do not just describe the physical features of the maps. Describe the developments that took place.2. Make use of a variety of appropriate past verb forms (see verbs used in the sample below).3. Make use of suitable expressions describing the locations where the changes took place (see items in italics in

the sample below).




You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The maps show the changes that have taken place at the seaside resort of Templeton between 1990 and 2005.

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

Write at least 150 words.

Figure taken from Improve your IELTS by McCarter and Whitby; Macmillian Publishers Limited, 2007

Sample:

The maps highlight the development that took place in the seaside resort of Templeton within a 15-year period.

In 1990, Templeton was a relatively quieter coastal town with many individual houses and little economic activity. After 15 years, many changes occurred, the most noticeable of which were 1the cutting down of nearly all trees and 2the conversion of individual houses into large apartment buildings that lined up both at the coastline and northwestern part of the town. 3An additional road had been built to provide access to these apartment buildings and the huge supermarket servicing the whole area.

Other notable changes include 4the access railway added extending westward along the seaside and 5the conversion of the woodland east of the river and near the school into an airport to accommodate the increased population of the area. 6More detached houses had been built nearby. 7A factory was also constructed along the coastline and 8a ferry was made to enable transfer of cars to nearby islands.

Overall, a comparison between the two maps reveals a change of the place from a quaint seaside resort into a bustling economic center.

21

Writing CriteriaBefore submitting your work, check that you have satisfied the following criteria:

TASK 1: REPORT/LETTER

Task Fulfilment Have I written at least 150 words? Have I only presented information that is necessary to my report?

Coherence and Cohesion Is my report logically arranged? Have I presented the data accurately? Was I able to make use of appropriate expressions to properly link sentences and paragraphs in

my work?

Vocabulary and Sentence Structure Was I able to make use of a variety of accurate words and phrases to describe the significant

points of my report? Have I shown facility in writing information using a variety of simple and complex sentence

structures? Is my report free from grammatical mistakes?

TASK 2: ESSAY

Arguments, Ideas and Evidence

Have I provided logical reasoning and coherent arguments to support my view? Have I thoroughly discussed the different views of the question? Have I provided sufficient supporting statements to illustrate or clarify my point?

Communicative Quality

Have I expressed myself in an effortless, non-controversial, neutral, and objective manner? Are there any inappropriate languages that may have compromised the formal context of my work?

Vocabulary and Sentence Structure

Have I made use of a variety of accurate words and phrases used to effectively convey my message?

Have I used appropriate expressions to link properly my sentences and paragraphs together? Have I shown facility in expressing ideas using a variety of simple and complex sentence

structures? Is my work free from any grammatical mistakes?




Supplement 1: Reporting Vocabulary

Table 1. Vocabulary to add range

Alternative expressions

1. Increaseaugment, expand, swell, grow, gain strength, shoot up, rise, inflate, mushroom, escalate, snowball, climb, skyrocket

2. Decreasediminish, lessen, shrink, drop, fall, descend, tail off, run low, dwindle, slacken, scale down, recede, taper off, lower, slip, go down, sink, dip, nose-dive, plummet, lose ground

Table 2. Vocabulary to add depth

Items Modifiers

1. For nounscorresponding, prodigious, subsequent, sharp, considerable, marked, concomitant

2. For verbsnotably, enormously, materially, relatively, partially, steadily, insignificantly, continuously, considerably, substantially




Supplement 2: Vocabulary to facilitate cohesion

Linking words Function

1. To indicate additionagain, also, and, besides, further, furthermore, in addition, moreover, next, too

2. To exhibit causes and effectsaccordingly, as a result, consequently, for this reason, hence, if, since, so, then, therefore, thus

3. To indicate similaritiesalso, by comparison, in the same manner, likewise, similarly

4. To acknowledge the validity of another persons point

although this may be true, certainly, even though, granted, it is true, naturally, of course, to be sure, to tell the truth, with the exception of

5. To prepare for a contrastafter all, but, however, in contrast, in spite of, nevertheless, on the contrary, on the other hand, still, unlike, yet

6. To indicate examplesfor example, for instance, in fact, to illustrate, specifically, a case in point would be, like

7. To provide indication of time or sequence

after, afterward, as, at the same time, before, currently, during, earlier, finally, formerly, immediately, in the meantime, lately, later, meanwhile, next, shortly, simultaneously, soon, subsequently, this time, until now

8. To indicate place or direction above, around, below, beyond, close, elsewhere, farther on, here, nearby, opposite, there, to the left (right)




Supplement 3: Complicated Sentence Structures 1. COMPOUND SENTENCE: Two ideas written in simple sentences combined using and, (;), but and yet

Pattern: S V 0, ____ S V 0 Examples:

a. IELTS is an English proficiency test, and it covers four components.b. Children are in their impressionable stages; they need their parents guidance.c. IELTS is administered for 3 hours only, but examinees prepare for it for months.d. Davao City is situated in the war-stricken Mindanao, yet it is commendably peaceful.

2. COMPLEX SENTENCE: Two ideas coined using the following patterns:

Pattern 1: S, ____________, - V O or _______________, S V O

The additional idea relating to the subject may be an adjective, a verb or a prepositional phrase. Examples:

a. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort, possibly the most famous resort in Mindanao, is my favorite vacation spot.b. Our ancestral house, standing tall amidst the newly constructed buildings, is now considered a landmark

in our province.c. With arms up to the elbows, children while their time by watching their favorite TV shows.d. The father, who is the head of the family, has to work doubly hard for his family.

Pattern 2: S V O, __________________ The additional idea, which is often a noun or pronoun, relating to the direct object is called an appositive. Appositives serve as alternate information, and they are written to specify.

Examples:a. I saw Mrs. Helena, the bank manager.b. I look forward to spending my free time at SM City Mall, the biggest mall in Davao.c. Leaders should aim for a peace treaty, a necessary ingredient to stop the war against terror.

Pattern 3: S V O + dependent clause or dependent clause, + S V OA dependent clause is one that starts with any of these dependent words: because, although, even though, while, when, after, before, as, if, so, etc.

Examples:a. Her parents are very proud of her because she takes her studies seriously.b. Although the Philippines is a beautiful country, its poor economy forces Filipinos to work abroad.

3. COMPOUND-COMPLEX SENTENCE: the combination of the first two types, the sentence calls for the inclusion of three ideas.

Examples:1. S, ________, -V-O + S-V-O

The Pearl Farm Beach Resort, possibly the most famous resort in Mindanao, is my favorite vacation spot, but its remote location makes it difficult for me to frequent the place.

2. S-V-O, ______________ + S-V-O I saw Mrs. Helena, the bank manager, but she never looked at me.

3. S-V-0 + dependent clause + S-V-OHer parents are very proud of her because she takes her studies seriously, and she is also her classmates favorite.




Answer key.

Essay drill. Page 15

1. BA

2. O

3. BA

4. O

5. E

6. E

7. E

8. BA

9. O

10. BA

11. E

12. O

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IELTS Writing Manual Strategies and Techniques