OVERVIEW OF THE IELTS ACADEMIC WRITING

60 minutes Two tasks

ACADEMIC Task 1: a report

ACADEMIC Task 2: an essay

Describe a visual or a set of data

Write about a given topic

20 minutes

40 minutes

150 words minimum (no maximum limit)

250 words minimum (no maximum limit)

Summarise the information
-Select the main features
-Report the main features
Make comparisons where relevant
Write at least 150 words

Read the question and make sure you understand
Write your introduction
Main body paragraphs
Quick conclusion

1.Graphs-Single-variable line graph

1.Opinion-le

Some people believe that television programmes are of no real value for children.
How far do you agree or disagree?

2.Graphs-Multiple-variable line graph

2.Argument-led

Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

3.Charts-Single-variable bar chart

3.Advantage/Disadvantage (Opinion Type）

In some countries, it is usual for young people who graduate from high school to spend a year working or travelling before going to university.
What are the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this?

4.Charts-Multiple-variable bar chart

4.Problem/Issue (Causes + Solution）

While some people prefer to live in apartments, others do not think an apartment is a suitable form of accommodation.
Do you think the advantages of living in an apartment outweigh the disadvantages?

5.Charts-Comparison bar chart

5. Problem/Issue (Consequences + Solutions）

Housing and accommodation has become a major problem in many countries around the world.
What are some of the main factors that have contributed to this problem?
What can be done to help reduce the number of homeless people?

6.Charts-Pie Chart

6.Problem/Issue (Causes + Consequences）

While mobile phones have many advantages, a number of problems have also resulted from them or the ways in which they are used.
What are some of these problems?
What solutions can you suggest for solving these problems?

7.Table

7. Mixe

Universities should provide students with the skills they will require in order to succeed at their future jobs.
How far do you agree or disagree with the above opinion?
What are some of the job skills that employers look for in new employees?