Writing

Time: 60 minutes

Questions: 2

IELTS Academic Writing Test

1. Task 1:

• Format: Candidates are presented with a graph, table, chart, or diagram and are asked to describe, summarize, or explain the information in their own words.

• Word Count: At least 150 words.

• Time Allocation: It is recommended to spend about 20 minutes on this task.

• Skills Assessed: Ability to identify key information, compare data, and accurately describe trends or processes.

2. Task 2:

• Format: Candidates are asked to respond to a point of view, argument, or problem.

• Word Count: At least 250 words.

• Time Allocation: It is recommended to spend about 40 minutes on this task.

• Skills Assessed: Ability to present a clear argument, support ideas with evidence and examples, and use appropriate tone and style.

IELTS General Training Writing Test

1. Task 1:

• Format: Candidates are asked to write a letter in response to a given situation. The letter can be formal, semi-formal, or informal.

• Word Count: At least 150 words.

• Time Allocation: It is recommended to spend about 20 minutes on this task.

• Skills Assessed: Ability to express purpose clearly, use appropriate tone and style, and organize information logically.

2. Task 2:

• Format: Similar to the Academic test, candidates are asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument, or problem.

• Word Count: At least 250 words.

• Time Allocation: It is recommended to spend about 40 minutes on this task.

• Skills Assessed: Similar to the Academic test, focusing on argumentation, supporting ideas, and appropriate use of tone and style.

1. Understand the Task:

• Carefully read the instructions for each task. Ensure you know what is required before you start writing.

2. Plan Your Answer:

• Spend a few minutes planning your response. Outline your main points and how you will develop them.

3. Manage Your Time:

• Allocate your time wisely. Stick to the recommended time for each task to ensure you complete both tasks.

4. Write Clearly and Concisely:

• Use clear and concise language. Avoid unnecessary words or overly complex sentences.

5. Review and Revise:

• If time permits, review your writing. Check for any grammatical errors, unclear sentences, or logical inconsistencies.

6. Practice Regularly:

• Practice writing tasks under timed conditions. Familiarize yourself with different types of questions and improve your writing speed and accuracy.

7. Use a Range of Vocabulary and Grammar:

• Show your ability to use a variety of words and sentence structures. This will help you score higher in the lexical resource and grammatical range criteria.

The IELTS Writing test is assessed based on four main criteria. Each criterion carries equal weight and contributes to the overall band score. Here’s a detailed explanation of the marking criteria for both the Academic and General Training Writing tasks:

Task Achievement (Task 1) / Task Response (Task 2)

Task 1 (Task Achievement):

• Fulfillment of the Task Requirements: This assesses how well you cover all parts of the task. For Academic Task 1, this means describing the visual data (e.g., graphs, charts, processes) accurately and comprehensively. For General Training Task 1, it involves addressing all bullet points in the letter.

• Detail and Clarity: Providing sufficient detail and clarity in your description or letter is crucial. You should highlight key features, trends, or stages clearly and logically.

• Accuracy: Ensure that your information is accurate and based on the provided data or context.

Task 2 (Task Response):

• Addressing the Task: This evaluates how well you respond to all parts of the task. You should clearly present a position and maintain it throughout the essay. Address all aspects of the question prompt.

• Ideas and Examples: Your ideas should be relevant, well-developed, and supported with specific examples or evidence. Avoid overly general statements.

• Coherence and Logic: Your argument should be logical and easy to follow. Ensure that each paragraph contributes to the overall argument or discussion.

Coherence and Cohesion

• Logical Organization: Your essay or letter should be logically organized with clear paragraphs. Each paragraph should have a clear central idea.

• Linking Ideas: Use a range of cohesive devices (e.g., linking words, pronouns) to connect ideas and ensure the essay or letter flows smoothly. This includes using appropriate linking words between sentences and paragraphs.

• Paragraphing: Effective use of paragraphs to separate different points or ideas. Each paragraph should focus on a single idea or aspect of the task.

Lexical Resource

• Range of Vocabulary: Use a wide range of vocabulary appropriately. Demonstrating your ability to use synonyms and varied word choices will enhance your score.

• Accuracy: Ensure that your word choice is accurate and contextually appropriate. Avoid overuse of words or expressions.

• Spelling and Word Formation: Be mindful of correct spelling and word formation. Incorrect spelling and word forms can detract from your overall score.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

• Range of Structures: Use a variety of grammatical structures accurately. This includes complex sentences, different tenses, and passive voice where appropriate.

• Accuracy: Ensure your grammar is accurate and free from errors. Common errors include subject-verb agreement, article usage, and verb tenses.

• Punctuation: Correct use of punctuation is also assessed. Misuse of punctuation can affect clarity and coherence.

Band Descriptors

The IELTS Writing test is scored on a nine-band scale. Here’s a general overview of what each band represents:

Band 9:

• Task Achievement/Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task. Presents a fully developed position with relevant, fully extended, and well-supported ideas.

• Coherence and Cohesion: Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention. Skillfully manages paragraphing.

• Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.

• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.

Band 8:

• Task Achievement/Response: Covers all requirements of the task. Presents a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.

• Coherence and Cohesion: Sequences information and ideas logically. Manages all aspects of cohesion well.

• Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary fluently and flexibly to convey precise meanings. Occasional errors in word choice.

• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures accurately. The majority of sentences are error-free.

Band 7:

• Task Achievement/Response: Addresses all parts of the task. Presents a clear position with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.

• Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organizes information and ideas. Uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately.

• Lexical Resource: Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision. Some errors in word choice and spelling.

• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a variety of complex structures. Frequent error-free sentences, but some grammatical mistakes persist.

Band 6:

• Task Achievement/Response: Addresses the task only partially. Presents relevant ideas but with limited development.

• Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information and ideas coherently but with some lapses. Uses some cohesive devices.

• Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary. Errors in word choice and spelling can cause some difficulty for the reader.

• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Some errors in grammar and punctuation.

Band 5 and Below:

• Lower bands indicate increasing levels of difficulty in addressing the task, organizing information, using vocabulary accurately, and applying correct grammar.

N.B. Task 2 carries 2x mark of the IELTS Writing test.