level 4 ielts writing task 2 task 2 – opinion essays · task 2: opinion essays there are two...

Level 4

IELTS Writing Task 2

Task 2 – Opinion Essays Task 2 on the IELTS exam may require you to discuss a prompt and give your opinion with supporting reasons. You need to produce an essay that has an introduction, at least two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. On your iPad, go to https://takeielts.britishcouncil.org/

Ø Click on Results

Ø Click on IELTS assessment criteria

Ø Download IELTS task 2 Writing band descriptors (PDF, 35 kb) Ø What are the 4 aspects of writing which you get marks for?

Ø Look at the descriptors for bands 4, 5 and 6. Ø Look at the points in the box below. Which aspects of writing do they relate to?

In this section you will:

• understand different questions and task types. • revise essay structure • practice planning and organising your ideas. • review the meaning and use of some common linking words. • revise some complex grammar which you can easily use in your essays • do some writing practice.

To get a band 5 in IELTS, you need to:- • answer all parts of the essay question prompt.

• organise your writing into paragraphs including an introduction, body and a conclusion. • use some good linking words and phrases.

• use suitable vocabulary with good range, spelling and correct word forms. • have some simple sentences, some compound sentences (using linking words like and

& but) and some complex sentences (e.g. …., who..., that..., which..., if...).

1

Task 2: Essay Questions and Essay Types

Match the essay type (in column A) with the essay question (in column B).

A B 1 Advantages and

Disadvantages Essay

a Computer technology is resulting in a lot of wasted time in society. Discuss some of the causes and effects of this and give some solutions.

2 One-Sided

Opinion Essay b Computer technology benefits modern society

in many ways but it does cause problems. What are some problems associated with computer technology and what are some solutions for these?

3 Problem and

Solution Essay c Computer technology benefits modern society

in many ways, but it does have disadvantages. Discuss some of the drawbacks of computer technology.

4 Advantages or

Disadvantages Essay only

d Some people say that computers being used more and more in education is a positive trend, while others argue that it is leading to negative consequences. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

5 Cause and

Effect Essay e Computer technology benefits modern society

in many ways. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

6 Two-Sided

Opinion Essay f Computer technology benefits modern society

in many ways, but it does have disadvantages. Do you think the pros of computer technology outweigh the cons?

2

Task 2: Essay Organisation Look back at the essay questions for each of the essay types. Make notes in the boxes below for how you would organise your ideas.

Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

Advantages or Disadvantages Only Essay

Two-sided Opinion Essay One-sided Opinion Essay

Problems and Solutions Essay

Cause and Effect Essay

3

Task 2: Opinion Essays

There are two types of opinion essay questions: Writer’s position – No matter if it is a personal opinion essay or discussion essay, the writer’s personal opinion on the topic (how much they personally agree or disagree) is called the writer’s position.

Opinion Discussion Essay Question Discuss both points of view and give your own opinion.

What the people who disagree with YOU

would say, and their reasons

What the people who agree with YOU would say, and

their/your reasons

Your own opinion (again) in

the conclusion

for this type of essay question, you must write both sides of an argument

plus your own opinion

Personal Opinion Essay Question To what extent do you agree or disagree?

I agree I partly agree or

it depends

I disagree

for this type of essay question, you must write your own opinion only

The topic and both argument sides

(plus your opinion) in the introduction

4

Technology in education Discuss these questions with your partner 1. What are some examples of technology that are used in your classrooms today? 2. Do you think students should use computers when they are learning? Why/ why not? 3. Look at some of the reasons below on why computers should and should not be used in

education, which reasons support the opinion that computers should be used in education (put a tick P beside these) and which reasons support the opinion that computers should not be used in education (put a cross O beside these):- a) computers can help teachers make their lessons more interesting

5

b) teachers may lose their jobs as computers replace them

5

c) students generally like technology, so computers can motivate them to learn

5

d) computers cannot help all types of students equally for example blind students

5

e) computers in education means that students who live far away from schools can also study by doing their courses online

5

f) computers can be very distracting, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing more exciting computer games instead

5

Read the four essay questions and parts of essays on the following pages and decide what types of questions and essays they are. An example answer is essay question type - 1, essay type - fully agree opinion + agree reasons.

5

Question Analysis Read the two essay questions. For each one decide if it requires a personal opinion only or a discussion of both sides of the question. EXAMPLE ESSAY QUESTION (A)

Question Type: Personal opinion / Discussion of 2 sides (Circle one)

Some people say that computers being used more and more in education is a positive trend, while others argue that it is leading to negative consequences. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. EXAMPLE ESSAY QUESTION (B)

Question Type: Personal opinion / Discussion of 2 sides (Circle one)

Some people believe that computers being used more and more in education is a positive trend. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Response (Answer) Analysis Now you will read four partial (not complete) answers for the questions above. For each one, decide if it answers Question A or Question B. Then circle the writer’s position. PART ANSWER 1 ANSWER FOR QUESTION

A B WRITER’S POSITION:

agree partly agree disagree

Technology features strongly in our daily lives. Hence, it is no surprise that we are increasingly using

computers in educational institutions. However, I believe this is not necessarily a positive thing, for several reasons.

The most important reason is that teachers may lose their jobs. As computers replace teachers,… Another reason is that computers can be very distracting. For example, students who are supposed to

be studying may be playing more exciting computer games instead… Finally, using computers in education cannot effectively help all types of students. For instance, blind

students may not be able to learn as well as students who can see if they use computers…

In conclusion, there are many reasons why computers should not be used in education. They may cause unemployment among teachers, they can divert students’ attention away from study and they are not a good learning tool for all students. Therefore, I believe that schools should…

6

PART ANSWER 2 ANSWER FOR QUESTION



Technology features strongly in our daily lives. Hence, it is no surprise that we are increasingly using computers in educational institutions. Some people are not comfortable with this, but I believe computer use in schools and universities is positive. In the following essay, I will look at both sides of the argument.

On one hand, some people feel computers should not be used in education. The main reason is that it

may cause unemployment among teachers. As computers replace teachers,… In addition, computers can divert students’ attention away from study. For example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead…

On the other hand, there are several reasons why using computers in education is beneficial. The most

important one is that it can help to make lessons more interesting… Another reason is that young people generally like technology, so computers can motivate students to learn…

In conclusion, I feel strongly that computers should be used in education. This is because even though

a few teachers may lose their jobs or students might be distracted sometimes, computers create interest in the classroom, and motivate students. Therefore, I believe that schools should…




Technology features strongly in our daily lives. Hence, it is no surprise that we are increasingly using computers in educational institutions. I believe to some extent that computer use is a positive thing. There are several reasons that support my view.

On one hand, there are several reasons why using computers in education is a good thing. The most

important one is that it can help teachers to make their lessons more interesting. … Another reason is that young people generally like technology, so computers can motivate students to learn…

On the other hand, there are reasons why computers should not be used in education. The main one is

that teachers may lose their jobs. As computers replace teachers,… In addition, computers can be very distracting. For example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead…

In conclusion, I agree to a certain extent that computers should be used in education. This is because they create interest in the classroom, and motivate students. However, they may cause unemployment among teachers and they can divert students’ attention away from study. Therefore, I believe that schools should…

7




Technology features strongly in our daily lives. Hence, it is no surprise that we are increasingly using computers in educational institutions. I believe computer use is a positive thing. There are several reasons that support my view.

The most important reason is that it can help teachers to make their lessons more interesting… Another reason is that young people generally like technology, so computers can motivate

students to learn… Finally, using computers in education means that students who live far away from schools can also

study by doing their course online… In conclusion, there are many reasons why computers should be used in education. They create

interest in the classroom, motivate students and give more people the opportunity to get an education. Therefore, I believe that schools should…

One of the most important things you can do to improve your mark in a writing exam is to read the question carefully, and then take a few minutes to plan what will go in each paragraph.

8

Task 2: Opinion Essay – Organisation

Look again at the four essays to think about how they are organised. The organisation of Example Essay I is shown below. Complete the boxes for Essays II, III and IV.

EXAMPLE OPINION ESSAY 1 Essay Question B

Essay Type - Fully Disagree Opinion + Disagree reasons

EXAMPLE OPINION ESSAY 2 Essay Question A

Essay Type - Fully Agree Opinion + Agree reasons and Disagree reasons

Introduction

fully disagree opinion Introduction

Body 1 First disagree reason

Body 1

Body 2

Second disagree reason Body 2

Body 3 Third disagree reason

Conclusion

Conclusion

fully disagree opinion


Essay Type – Partly Agree Opinion + Agree reasons and Disagree reasons


Essay Type - Fully Agree Opinion + Agree reasons

Introduction

Introduction

Body 1

Body 1

Body 2

Body 2

Conclusion

Body 3

Conclusion

9

Task 2: One-Sided Opinion Essay – Structure

Read the essay below. There are 19 pieces to this essay. Write the name of each piece (topic sentence/example/result etc…) from the box above each paragraph into the box on the right. The first one has been done as an example. Then, underline any words in the essay which show you what part of the essay each piece is. Some people believe that computers being used more and more in education is a positive trend. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? � General Background � Thesis � Essay Topic Introduction

1)Technology features strongly in our daily lives. 2)Hence, it is no surprise that we are increasingly using computers in educational institutions. 3)However, I believe this is not necessarily a positive thing. In the following essay, I will give reasons to support my view.

1) General Background

2)

3)

� Result � Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Result � Explanation Body Paragraph 1 4)The most important reason is that teachers may lose their jobs. 5)As

computers replace teachers, educational institutions may find it cheaper to purchase computers and program them to teach students instead of paying teachers a salary. 6)As a result, fewer teachers will be needed. 7)If teachers no longer have jobs, their families may suffer from the lack of an income.

4)

5)

6)

7)

� Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Result � Example � Result Body Paragraph 2 8)Another reason is that computers can be very distracting. 9)For

example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead. 10)Because of this, they may not pay attention or learn in class. 11)Consequently, they might not do well in their courses.

8) 9) 10) 11)

� Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Example � Result Body Paragraph 3

12)Finally, using computers in education cannot effectively help all types of students. 13)For instance, some disabled students, such as blind students, may not be able to learn as well as students who can see, if they use computers. 14)Hence, computers could create an unequal learning environment for some students.

12)

13)

14)

� Summary of Main Ideas �Advice/Suggestion � Thesis again Conclusion

15)In conclusion, there are many reasons why computers should not be used in education. 16)They may cause unemployment among teachers, they can divert students’ attention away from study and they are not a good learning tool for all students. 17)Therefore, I believe that computers should only be used to help all students equally in the classroom.

15)

16)

17)

10

Task 2: Two-sided Opinion Essay

Weddings Discuss these questions with your partner

1. Why are weddings important?

2. What makes a good wedding?

3. In the UAE, do people generally have big weddings or small weddings?

4. What are some reasons why people have big weddings?

5. What do people spend a lot of money on in big weddings?

6. Why do some couples choose to have small weddings, even if they have enough money?

7. Look at some of the reasons below on why people should and should not have big weddings, which reasons support the opinion that people should have big weddings (put a tick P beside these) and which reasons support the opinion that people should not have big weddings (put a cross O beside these):- a) more family members and friends of the couple can come to the wedding

and celebrate together

5

b) this kind of wedding can result in a better place for the wedding, more exciting entertainment, so the couple can have more special memories

5

c) this kind of wedding is not as much a waste of money

5

d) this kind of wedding takes less time and energy to organise, so there is less stress for the couple

5

11

Task 2: Two-sided Opinion Essay – Linking Words & Phrases Today, in the UAE, big weddings can be very expensive. To what extent do you agree that couples should have big weddings? Fill in the gaps with word/phrases from the box.

In most societies, marriage is a very important part of life. In the United Arab Emirates, a lot of people

like to celebrate with big, costly weddings. _________________________ people should not have large

weddings. ___________________________________, I will look at both sides of the argument with

supporting reasons.

_______________________________, there are several reasons why having large weddings should be

encouraged. __________________________________________________ it makes it a day that the couple

will remember for the rest of their lives. ____________________________, it may be in a beautiful place and

there might be exciting entertainment and delicious food. As a result, the bride and groom will have a lot of

special memories of this day. Another reason is that the couple's friends and family community can celebrate

their marriage with them. This is important _________________ the guests can get together and strengthen

community relationships, __________________ a big wedding is good for society as well as for the couple.

_______________________________, there are reasons why couples should not have big weddings. The

main one is that a large wedding costs a great deal of money. For example, a very large wedding may cost

between 200,000 and 500,000 Dhs. If a couple choose a small wedding, they can save that money to buy a

house or start their married life well. ______________________, organizing a big wedding takes a lot of time

and energy. ____________________________, there is a lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding

hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone. _____________________________________, the

couple could have more stress.

_______________________, I think that large weddings should be avoided. This is because it wastes

money and could be stressful even though couples can have special memories of this day and it may be good

for the whole community. All couples need to consider these things carefully before they make their wedding

plans. I advise everyone to choose the wedding that is right for them.

For instance On the other hand so In conclusion For example because The most important one is that Because of this

In the following essay In addition On one hand I partly agree that

12

Task 2: Two-Sided Opinion Essay – Structure Read the essay below. There are 20 pieces to this essay. Write the name of each piece (topic sentence/example/result etc…) from the box above each paragraph into the box on the right. The first one has been done as an example. Then, underline any words in the essay which show you what part of the essay each piece is. Today, in the UAE, big weddings can be very expensive. Many people believe this to be a necessary part of life, while others believe that this is a negative trend.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion. � General Background � Thesis � Essay Topic Introduction 1)In most societies, marriage is a very important part of life. 2)In the United Arab Emirates, a lot of people like to celebrate with big, costly weddings. 3)I partly agree that people should not have large weddings. In the following essay, I will look at both sides of the argument with supporting reasons.


2)

3)

� Result � Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Explanation � 1st reason � 2nd reason � Example � Result

Body Paragraph 1

4)On one hand, there are several reasons why having large weddings should be encouraged. 5)The most important one is that it makes it a day that the couple will remember for the rest of their lives. 6)For example, it may be in a beautiful place and there might be exciting entertainment and delicious food. 7)As a result, the bride and groom will have a lot of special memories of this day. 8)Another reason is that the couple's friends and family community can celebrate their marriage with them. 9)This is important because the guests can get together and strengthen community relationships, 10)so a big wedding is good for society as well as for the couple.

4) 5) 6) 7) 8) 9) 10)

� Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Result � Example � 1st reason � 2nd reason � Example � Result

Body Paragraph 2

11)On the other hand, there are reasons why couples should not have big weddings. 12)The main one is that a large wedding costs a great deal of money. 13)For example, a very large wedding may cost between 200,000 and 500,000 Dhs. 14)If a couple choose a small wedding, they can save that money to buy a house or start their married life well. 15)In addition, organizing a big wedding takes a lot of time and energy. 16)For instance, there is a lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone. 17)Because of this, the couple could have more stress.

11) 12) 13) 14) 15) 16) 17)


18)In conclusion, I think that large weddings should be avoided. 19)This is because it wastes money and could be stressful even though couples can have special memories of this day and it may be good for the whole community. 20)All couples need to consider these things carefully before they make their wedding plans. I advise everyone to choose the wedding that is right for them.

18)

19)

20)

13

Task 2: Opinion Essay – Summary Of Linking Words & Phrases Using some of the linking words and phrases from the essay on big weddings, place them in the correct place in the table, according to their function. Use only the words and phrases that you see in the box.

To state the first idea To state subsequent ideas To contrast ideas

To state an example To state a reason To state a result

Now, place the additional underlined linking words and phrases into the table as well. 1. As computers replace teachers, educational institutions may find it cheaper to purchase computers and

program them to teach students instead of paying teachers a salary.

2. For example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead. Consequently, they might not do well in their courses.

3. Finally, using computers in education cannot effectively help all types of students.

4. For instance, some disabled students, such as blind students, may not be able to learn as well as students who can see, if they use computers. Hence, computers could create an unequal learning environment for some students.

Can you think of any more words or phrases to add?

Another reason is that so On the other hand The main one is that

In addition For example The most important one is that because For instance Because of this On one hand

14

Task 2: Opinion Essay – Vocabulary Vocabulary to express an opinion: Language Input

Function Phrase + Clause to agree I agree that…

people should have big weddings. (S) + (V)

I agree with the idea that…

I support the idea that… to disagree I disagree that…

I do not believe that… I do not share the view that…

to partly agree I partly agree with the idea that… I agree to a certain extent that… I agree up to a point that…

Vocabulary to express an opinion: Practice Read the essay questions below. Decide what your opinion is, then write it in the space below. 1. It is much easier to learn in a small class than in a larger one. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 2. Avoiding preventable illnesses is the responsibility of individuals and their families, not the government. To

what extent do you agree or disagree?

3. Public libraries are being used less and less as information is now available on the Internet. Hence, governments should close libraries and use the money that they spend on libraries in a better way. To what extent do you agree?

4. Some people believe that the education a child receives at home from having parents who are positive role models is the most important, while others think that the academic education a child receives at school is more beneficial. Discuss both points of view and give your own opinion.

15

Task 2: Opinion Essay – Grammar Tips To get a 5 for grammar in IELTS writing, you need to have good control of basic grammar and you need to use some complex structures. Here are some handy tips for using 3 types of complex structures in your essay writing: 1) Relative clauses: You can turn adjective + noun phrases into relative clauses

adjective + noun relative clause ( who or which + be verb + adjective)

1. expensive weddings 1. weddings which are expensive

2. disabled students 2. students who are disabled

3. educational television programs 3.

4. more exciting computer games 4.

5. motivated students 5.

6. online courses 6.

7. more interesting lessons 7.

8. preventable illnesses 8.

9. positive role models 9.

10. small classes 10.

2) ‘that’ clauses: You can use phrases which are followed by that clauses

Function Phrase + Clause

to agree I agree with the idea that… people should have big weddings.

(S) + (V) to disagree I do not believe that… to partly agree I partly agree with the idea that… to give a reason The most important reason is that…

the wedding will be a special memory. (S) + (V)

Another reason is that…

to give another example

Another example is that…

families can celebrate the marriage.

(S) + (V)

to restate opinion In conclusion, I think that…

large weddings are a good idea.

(S) + (V)

16

3) Conditionals: You can take sentences which show reason + result and turn them into conditionals Reason + result Some teachers no longer have jobs, so their families may suffer from the lack of

an income. Conditional sentence If teachers no longer have jobs, their families may suffer from the lack of an

income.

Reason + result For example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead. Consequently, they might not do well in their courses.

Conditional sentence For example, if students who are supposed to be studying are playing computer games instead, they might not do well in their courses.

Conditionals’ Grammar If + conditional clause, + result clause If + (S) + (V), + (S) + (V) If teachers no longer have jobs, their families may suffer from the lack of an income.

Write the following reason + result sentences as conditional sentences:

1) The guests can get together and strengthen community relationships, so a big wedding is good for society as well as for the couple. 1)

2) For instance, there is a lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone. Because of this, the couple could have more stress. 2)

3) For example, the couple have to spend a lot of money on food and entertainment for a large wedding. As a result, they do not have as much money to buy a house. 3)

4) Students can watch educational videos and use apps on their computers in class. Therefore, computers can make lessons more interesting. 4)

use present tense use modal verb, use may/might/could + base verb

17

Task 2: Opinion Essay – Practice Topics

Below are some IELTS Task 2 questions. Check that you understand the underlined words. Some of these words and topics come out again and again in the IELTS exam. Plan your essays by drawing boxes to show how you would organise each one.

1. Some people think that uniforms at schools are unnecessary and should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

2. Many people believe that cooking is an essential life skill and should be taught to boys and girls in schools. Others disagree and believe it is a waste of school time. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people believe that free housing should be provided by the government for people who cannot afford to buy a house. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this?

4. Governments give a lot of support to artists, even though some people think it is a waste of

money that could have been used elsewhere. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion. 5. Some people think that both travelers and business people must have the same attitude to local

people and the traditions of countries they visit. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

6. Some people believe that universities should focus on providing academic skills, while others think that universities should prepare students for their real future careers. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.

7. The development of new technologies is increasing rapidly and this is influencing people’s lives

more than ever before. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 8. Some people say that governments should not spend money on international aid, as long as there

are disadvantaged people such as unemployed and homeless people within their own country. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

9. Most of our information comes from the Internet nowadays. Some people say that a large part of

the information we get is incorrect. Do you agree or disagree? 10. Many developed countries are giving financial aid to the poor countries. However, this does not

solve the problem of poverty in these nations and so other types of help are needed. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

11. Many people believe that the main purpose of schools is to make children into good citizens and workers, rather than to benefit them as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

18

Grammar Review- Modal Verbs For extra review about modal verbs go to this site https://www.thinglink.com/scene/513246015021645826 1. Watch the video 2. Take notes 3. Do the exercise Modal verbs to express an opinion

Very Strong, Certain, Definitely Suggest, likely Not positive, possible will should may

cannot would might must ought to could

19

Task 2: Opinion Essay – Organisation Answers Look again at the four essays to think about how they are organised. The organisation of Example Essay I is shown below. Complete the boxes for Essays II, III and IV.


Essay Type - Fully Disagree Opinion + Disagree reasons

EXAMPLE OPINION ESSAY 2 Essay Question A

Essay Type - Fully Agree Opinion + Agree reasons and Disagree reasons

Introduction

fully disagree opinion Introduction

Fully agree opinion

Body 1 First disagree reason

Body 1 Agree reasons

Body 2

Second disagree reason Body 2

Disagree reasons

Body 3 Third disagree reason

Conclusion Fully agree opinion

Conclusion

fully disagree opinion


Essay Type – Partly Agree Opinion + Agree reasons and Disagree reasons


Essay Type - Fully Agree Opinion + Agree reasons

Introduction

Partly agree opinion Introduction

Fully agree opinion

Body 1 Agree reasons

Body 1 First Agree reasons

Body 2

Disagree reasons Body 2

Second Agree reasons

Conclusion Partly agree opinion

Body 3 Third Agree reasons

Conclusion Fully agree opinion

21

Technology in education Discuss these questions with your partner

1. What are some examples of technology that are used in your classrooms today? 2. Do you think students should use computers when they are learning? Why/ why not? 3. Look at some of the reasons below on why computers should and should not be used in

education, which reasons support the opinion that computers should be used in education (put a tick P beside these) and which reasons support the opinion that computers should not be used in education (put a cross O beside these):- a) computers can help teachers make their lessons more interesting

5

b) teachers may lose their jobs as computers replace them

5

c) students generally like technology, so computers can motivate them to learn

5

d) computers cannot help all types of students equally for example blind students

5

e) computers in education means that students who live far away from schools can also study by doing their courses online

5

f) computers can be very distracting, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing more exciting computer games instead

5

Read the four essay questions and parts of essays on the following pages and decide what types of questions and essays they are. An example answer is essay question type - 1, essay type - fully agree opinion + agree reasons.

P

P

P

O

O

O

22

Task 2: One-Sided Opinion Essay – Structure Answers Read the essay below. There are 19 pieces to this essay. Write the name of each piece (topic sentence/example/result etc…) from the box above each paragraph into the box on the right. The first one has been done as an example. Then, underline any words in the essay which show you what part of the essay each piece is. Some people believe that computers being used more and more in education is a positive trend. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? � General Background � Thesis � Essay Topic Introduction

1)Technology features strongly in our daily lives. 2)Hence, it is no surprise that we are increasingly using computers in educational institutions. 3)However, I believe this is not necessarily a positive thing. In the following essay, I will give reasons to support my view.


2) Essay Topic

3) Thesis

� Result � Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Result � Explanation Body Paragraph 1 4)The most important reason is that teachers may lose their jobs. 5)As

computers replace teachers, educational institutions may find it cheaper to purchase computers and program them to teach students instead of paying teachers a salary. 6)As a result, fewer teachers will be needed. 7)If teachers no longer have jobs, their families may suffer from the lack of an income.

4) Topic Sentence (Main Idea) 5) Explanation

6) Result

7) Result

� Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Result � Example � Result Body Paragraph 2 8)Another reason is that computers can be very distracting. 9)For

example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead. 10)Because of this, they may not pay attention or learn in class. 11)Consequently, they might not do well in their courses.

8) Topic Sentence (Main Idea) 9) Example 10) Result 11) Result

� Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Example � Result Body Paragraph 3

12)Finally, using computers in education cannot effectively help all types of students. 13)For instance, some disabled students, such as blind students, may not be able to learn as well as students who can see, if they use computers. 14)Hence, computers could create an unequal learning environment for some students.

12) Topic Sentence (Main Idea) 13) Example

14) Result


15)In conclusion, there are many reasons why computers should not be used in education. 16)They may cause unemployment among teachers, they can divert students’ attention away from study and they are not a good learning tool for all students. 17)Therefore, I believe that computers should only be used to help all students equally in the classroom.

15) Thesis again

16) Summary of Main Ideas 17) Advice/Suggestion

Task 2: Two-sided Opinion Essay

23

Weddings Discuss these questions with your partner

1. Why are weddings important?

2. What makes a good wedding?

3. In the UAE, do people generally have big weddings or small weddings?

4. What are some reasons why people have big weddings?

5. What do people spend a lot of money on in big weddings?

6. Why do some couples choose to have small weddings, even if they have enough money?

7. Look at some of the reasons below on why people should and should not have big weddings, which reasons support the opinion that people should have big weddings (put a tick P beside these) and which reasons support the opinion that people should not have big weddings (put a cross O beside these):- a) more family members and friends of the couple can come to the wedding

and celebrate together

5

b) this kind of wedding can result in a better place for the wedding, more exciting entertainment, so the couple can have more special memories

5

c) this kind of wedding is not as much a waste of money

5

d) this kind of wedding takes less time and energy to organise, so there is less stress for the couple

5

P

O

P

O

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Task 2: Opinion Essay – Linking Words & Phrases Answers Today, in the UAE, big weddings can be very expensive. To what extent do you agree that couples should have big weddings? Fill in the gaps with word/phrases from the box.

In most societies, marriage is a very important part of life. In the United Arab Emirates, a lot of people

like to celebrate with big, costly weddings. I partly agree that people should not have large weddings. In the

following essay, I will look at both sides of the argument with supporting reasons.

On one hand, there are several reasons why having large weddings should be encouraged. The most

important one is that it makes it a day that the couple will remember for the rest of their lives. For example, it

may be in a beautiful place and there might be exciting entertainment and delicious food. As a result, the

bride and groom will have a lot of special memories of this day. Another reason is that the couple's friends

and family community can celebrate their marriage with them. This is important because the guests can get

together and strengthen community relationships, so a big wedding is good for society as well as for the

couple.

On the other hand, there are reasons why couples should not have big weddings. The main one is that a

large wedding costs a great deal of money. For example, a very large wedding may cost between 200,000

and 500,000 Dhs. If a couple choose a small wedding, they can save that money to buy a house or start their

married life well. In addition, organizing a big wedding takes a lot of time and energy. For instance, there is a

lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone.

Because of this, the couple could have more stress.

In conclusion, I think that large weddings should be avoided. This is because it wastes money and could

be stressful even though couples can have special memories of this day and it may be good for the whole

community. All couples need to consider these things carefully before they make their wedding plans. I advise

everyone to choose the wedding that is right for them.

For instance On the other hand so In conclusion For example because The most important one is that Because of this

In the following essay In addition On one hand I partly agree that

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Task 2: Two-Sided Opinion Essay – Structure Answers

Today, in the UAE, big weddings can be very expensive. Many people believe this to be a necessary part of life, while others believe that this is a negative trend.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion. � General Background � Thesis � Essay Topic Introduction 1)In most societies, marriage is a very important part of life. 2)In the United Arab Emirates, a lot of people like to celebrate with big, costly weddings. 3)I partly agree that people should not have large weddings. In the following essay, I will look at both sides of the argument with supporting reasons.


2) Essay Topic

3) Thesis

� Result � Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Explanation � 1st reason � 2nd reason � Example � Result

Body Paragraph 1

4)On one hand, there are several reasons why having large weddings should be encouraged. 5)The most important one is that it makes it a day that the couple will remember for the rest of their lives. 6)For example, it may be in a beautiful place and there might be exciting entertainment and delicious food. 7)As a result, the bride and groom will have a lot of special memories of this day. 8)Another reason is that the couple's friends and family community can celebrate their marriage with them. 9)This is important because the guests can get together and strengthen community relationships, 10)so a big wedding is good for society as well as for the couple.

4) Topic Sentence (Main Idea) 5) 1st reason 6) Example 7) Result 8) 2nd reason 9) Explanation 10) Result

� Topic Sentence (Main Idea) � Result � Example � 1st reason � 2nd reason � Example � Result

Body Paragraph 2

11)On the other hand, there are reasons why couples should not have big weddings. 12)The main one is that a large wedding costs a great deal of money. 13)For example, a very large wedding may cost between 200,000 and 500,000 Dhs. 14)If a couple choose a small wedding, they can save that money to buy a house or start their married life well. 15)In addition, organizing a big wedding takes a lot of time and energy. 16)For instance, there is a lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone. 17)Because of this, the couple could have more stress.

11) Topic Sentence (Main Idea) 12) 1st reason 13) Example 14) Result 15) 2nd reason 16) Example 17) Result


18)In conclusion, I think that large weddings should be avoided. 19)This is because it wastes money and could be stressful even though couples can have special memories of this day and it may be good for the whole community. 20)All couples need to consider these things carefully before they make their wedding plans. I advise everyone to choose the wedding that is right for them.

18) Thesis again

19) Summary of Main Ideas 20) Advice/Suggestion

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Task 2: Opinion Essay – Summary Of Linking Words & Phrases (Answers)

Using the linking words from the essay on big weddings, place them in the correct box according to their function.

To state the first idea To state subsequent ideas To contrast ideas The most important one is that The main one is that

Another reason is that In addition Finally

On one hand On the other hand

To show example To show reason To show result For example For instance such as

because As

Because of this so Consequently Hence

Now, place the additional underlined linking words and phrases into the table as well. 1. As computers replace teachers, educational institutions may find it cheaper to purchase computers and

program them to teach students instead of paying teachers a salary.

2. For example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead. Consequently, they might not do well in their courses.

3. Finally, using computers in education cannot effectively help all types of students.

4. For instance, some disabled students, such as blind students, may not be able to learn as well as students who can see, if they use computers. Hence, computers could create an unequal learning environment for some students.

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Task 2: Opinion Essay – Grammar Tips Answers To get a 5 for grammar in IELTS writing, you need to have good control of basic grammar and you need to use some complex structures. Here are some handy tips for using 3 types of complex structures in your essay writing: 1) Relative clauses: You can turn adjective + noun phrases into relative clauses

adjective + noun relative clause ( who or which + be verb + adjective)

1. expensive weddings 1. weddings which are expensive

2. disabled students 2. students who are disabled

3. educational television programs 3. television programs which are educational

4. more exciting computer games 4. computer games which are more exciting

5. motivated students 5. students who are motivated

6. online courses 6. courses which are online

7. more interesting lessons 7. lessons which are more interesting

8. preventable illnesses 8. illnesses which are preventable

9. positive role models 9. role models who are positive

10. small classes 10. classes which are small

2) ‘that’ clauses: You can use phrases which are followed by that clauses

Function Phrase + Clause

to agree I agree with the idea that… people should have big weddings.

(S) + (V) to disagree I do not believe that… to partly agree I partly agree with the idea that… to give a reason The most important reason is that…

the wedding will be a special memory. (S) + (V)

Another reason is that…

to give another example

Another example is that…

families can celebrate the marriage.

(S) + (V)

to restate opinion In conclusion, I think that…

large weddings are a good idea.

(S) + (V)

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3) Conditionals: You can take sentences which show reason + result and turn them into conditionals Reason + result Some teachers no longer have jobs, so their families may suffer from the lack of

an income. Conditional sentence If teachers no longer have jobs, their families may suffer from the lack of an

income.

Reason + result For example, students who are supposed to be studying may be playing computer games instead. Consequently, they might not do well in their courses.

Conditional sentence For example, if students who are supposed to be studying are playing computer games instead, they might not do well in their courses.

Conditionals’ Grammar If + conditional clause, + result clause If + (S) + (V), + (S) + (V) If teachers no longer have jobs, their families may suffer from the lack of an income.

Write the following reason + result sentences as conditional sentences:

1) The guests can get together and strengthen community relationships, so a big wedding is good for society as well as for the couple. 1) If the guests get together and strengthen community relationships, a big wedding is good for society as well as for the couple.

2) For instance, there is a lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone. Because of this, the couple could have more stress. 2) For instance, if there is a lot of work to do to make sure that the wedding hall, entertainment and food are suitable for everyone, the couple could have more stress.

3) For example, the couple have to spend a lot of money on food and entertainment for a large wedding. As a result, they do not have as much money to buy a house. 3) For example, if the couple spend a lot of money on food and entertainment for a large wedding, they may not have as much money to buy a house.

4) Students can watch educational videos and use apps on their computers in class. Therefore, computers can make lessons more interesting. 4) If students watch educational videos and use apps on their computers in class, computers can make lessons more interesting.

use present tense use modal verb, use may/might/could + base verb

level 4 ielts writing task 2 task 2 – opinion essays · task 2: opinion essays there are two...

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