IELTS Opinion Essay Structure
This post covers the structure for IELTS essay writing Task 2 (Academic)
I wanted to revisit the structure and make this as clear as possible. By knowing the structure and how to apply it, it sets you up for success. Having the structure etched into your brain also means other focuses like lexical resource and grammar, can really flourish. Simply because the structure is so firmly in place you don't have to actively think about it; it's intuitive.
Practice writing as much as possible to make structure for any IELTS essay, intuitive.
The IELTS Essay Structure
Introduction
- Paraphrase the question
- Thesis statement- where you state what your view/opinion is
- Reasons- give two supporting reasons to uphold your thesis
Main paragraph 1
- Give your first argument
- Explain why/give a reason
- Give an example
Main paragraph 2
- Give your second argument
- Explain why/give reason
- Give an example
*When giving an example, make sure it does two things- it is an example that fits with the argument you have given, and it doesn't extend itself too much. Allow it to support your argument, without becoming its own paragraph.
Conclusion
- Loop back to your introduction and summarise your argument
- Avoid repeating what has been said
Example: In conclusion, education should be compulsory up until the age of 18 in order to instil skills and knowledge in young people, so that they are well-set up for the future.
Not: In conclusion, education should be compulsory up until the age of 18 in order to instil skills and knowledge in young people, so that they are well-set up for the future and are able to enter the workforce as more prepared. Not only the workforce, but to enter society with soft skills that are also crucial to operate as a successful and well-functioning person in society. It is imperative to be educated until 18 so that young people have a better chance for their own future, and can take better control of their own future.
Notes: This paragraph may use good language and complex grammar structures, but it is too long and tips into too much detail. Your arguments would have been explored in your two main paragraphs, so it isn't necessary to extend this. As well as this, writing a lengthy conclusive paragraph defeats the point of a conclusive paragraph.
I have written a band 8+ and am sharing this below.
The question has been taken from official IELTS test material.