IELTS Writing Task 2

Introduction

1. “Background Statement” = reiterating/paraphrasing the question.

– You should say the question again, but using different words that mean the same thing (synonyms and alternate phrasing).

Example question:

“Some people believe that capital punishment should never be used. Others believe that it could be used for the most serious crimes. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

The opening sentence of your introduction should use synonyms to say the question again in your own words. For example:

It is a commonly held belief that the death penalty is an out dated punishment and not appropriate in modern society. However, there is also an argument that the most despicable crimes should have this most severe of punishments.

2. The “Background Statement” is followed by the “Thesis Statement” which expresses your main ideas for the essay in a general way. 

If the question says one of the following:

• “to what extent do you agree”
• “what is your opinion”

You can use something like “I agree that… but…” or “In my opinion… however…” where the second part of your sentence is a counter argument to your first point.

*It DOES NOT MATTER what your opinion is, just how you express it.

If the question asks for just the advantages and disadvantages you should say one of each in your thesis statement. Following this section you should start Body Paragraph 1.

Introduction Video guide