There are two types of essays in IELTS Writing Task – 2:
- Argumentative Essay – Agree/Disagree – Select an option or discuss both
- Non-Argumentative Essay – Advantage/Disadvantage or Cause/Effect or Problem/Solution – Discuss
Understanding Argumentative Essay:
Write about the following topic:
City life is better than village life.
To what extent do you agree with this statement?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
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Understanding an argumentative essay requires clear sense of the question that follows the statement. In this case:
To what extent do you agree with this statement?
Meaning:
- You have to agree to the topic
- You can agree partially – Establish your ideas
- You can agree completely – Establish your ideas
- You must not include ideas against the statement
Other types of questions:
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Meaning:
- You can choose to agree or disagree
- You can agree/disagree partially – Establish your ideas
- You can agree/disagree completely – Establish your ideas
Do you agree or disagree to the statement?
Do you support the statement?
Discuss this view and give your own opinion?
Meaning:
- You can either select one or discuss both
- Establish your ideas using relevant evidence and examples
- Provide evidence and examples for not choosing the other
Understanding Non-Argumentative Essay:
Write about the following topic:
Air pollution is a contemporary issue and has to be resolved.
Discuss the problems resulting from air pollution and suggest possible solutions to overcome this issue.
Write at least 250 words.
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Here, you DO NOT have to support any statement. Instead you have to follow the instructions given after the statement. You may have to discuss the following:
- Discuss problems and suggest solutions.
- Enlist advantages and disadvantages and may provide your opinion in the end.
- Discuss the possible causes and resulting effects.
