IELTS - How To Prepare For Writing(1)

IELTS
Academic Module
Writing Test
Aims of the Session
To give a brief overview of the test.

To look at the two types of tasks you have to do in the test.

To suggest ways to prepare for the paper.

To offer tips on how to do the tasks.

To suggest possible resources.
Academic Writing Module – Test Overview
third test
2 tasks (60 mins)
Task 1 - 150 words (20 mins)
Task 2 - 250 words (40 mins)
under word limit penalised
notes unacceptable
card with task on either side
answer booklet


Writing Task 1
Given graphic or pictorial information – need to write a description. (OHT 1)
Bar charts/line graphs/pie charts & tables most frequent. (OHTs 1,2,3,4,5)
But sometimes – object/series of pictures /diagrams or flow charts. (OHTs 6,7,8)
Could be more than one graph or chart. (OHT 9)

Writing Task 1
Tests ability to:
describe & interpret graphic data
describe stages of a process
describe an object or event or sequence of events
explain how something works
Marking Task 1
Assessed on:
1. Task Fulfillment
Following instructions properly.
Writing clear, accurate & relevant description of info.
Focusing on important trends presented as graphic info.
2. Coherence & Cohesion
Organising writing using suitable structure.
Using connective words to link sentences & paragraphs logically.
3. Vocabulary & Sentence Structure
Using a range of appropriate vocabulary.
Using a variety of sentence structures.
How to Prepare for Task 1
Become familiar with graph types.
Do practise exercises describing graphs. (OHT 10)
Become familiar with ways to:
express percentages. (OHT 11)
express numbers & statistical data. (OHT 11)
express trends. (OHT 12)
make comparisons between data. (OHT 13)
>>>>

How to Prepare for Task 1

Look at language for:
describing how something works (OHT 14).
making reference to graphs/figures (OHT 15).
sequencing in a process (OHT 15).
Think about topics in tables & graphs etc.





Tips on How to Do Task 1
Spend 5 minutes reading the graphs/charts etc.
Make sure you understand axes. (OHT 9)
Make sure you follow lines on graph. (OHT 16)
Focus on the key information.
If two graphs – compare.
Think about the time period – tenses.
Vary your vocabulary.
Organize information clearly.
Write neatly & cross out errors with one line.
>>>>

Tips on How to Do Task 1
DON’T copy phrases from the question.
DON’T include info. not in the graph/picture.
DON’T take more than 20 minutes.
DON’T forget to leave time to read it through.

Writing Task 2
Given a discussion topic.
Tests ability to:
discuss a problem & present a solution.
present & justify opinions.
compare and contrast evidence or opinions.
argue a case.
evaluate & challenge ideas, evidence & argument.
(OHT 17 & 18)
Marking Task 2
Assessed on:
1. Arguments, Ideas & Evidence -
clear, logical, well-supported.
support with personal experience.
focus on topic.
2. Communicative Quality -
write fluently.
write cohesive sentences & paragraphs.
3. Vocabulary & Sentence Structure
range & variety.
good spelling & punctuation.

Carries more weight than Task 1.
How to Prepare for Task 2
Look at as many sample questions as possible.
Practise underlining key points & brainstorming questions.
Do practice questions with sample answers.
>>>>>
How to Prepare for Task 2
Look at language used for:
linking ideas between sentences & paragraphs (OHT 19).
expressing views (OHT 20).
making concessions (OHT 20).
giving opposing arguments (OHT 20).
providing support to main points (OHT 21).
referring to cause & effect (OHT 21).
making comparisons & contrasts (OHT 22).
concluding (OHT 23).

How to Prepare for Task 2
Think about possible topics.
Brainstorm the topics for questions.
Write timed essays.
Tips on How to Do Task 2
Study question carefully.
Underline key points.
Quickly brainstorm the topic.
Decide on main points & supporting detail.
Organise points in a plan.
Structure according to type of essay.(OHT 23,24,25)

General Tips for Writing Module
Before the exam
Practise writing timed essays.
Keep up-to-date with current affairs.
Write a list of your typical errors. (OHT 26)

During the exam
Use a pen.
Check your essay.
Resources for Writing Module Practice
IELTS Specimen Pack - practice material with answers.
Homesglen web site– excellent booklet to download.
Gives different types of graphs.
Gives language for describing trends etc.
Gives sample answers.
http://international.holmesglen.vic.edu.au/ie_writ.htm
Resources for Writing Module Practice
Books:
Advice & practice books:
Sahanaya, W et al, 2000. IELTS: Preparation and Practice - Reading and Writing.
graphs & useful language for Task 1.
Practice books:
Cambridge Examination Papers: IELTS 1 IELTS 2 IELTS 3
Course books:
Jakeman, V & McDowell, C (1999) Insight into IELTS, CUP.
O’Connell, Sue (2002) Focus on IELTS, Longman.
Resources for Writing Module Practice

Additional help:
English language Centre (ELC) ‘How to prepare for IELTS – Writing’ booklet.
Language Learning Advisors in the Self Access Centre, ELC.
Workshops coming up.
Questions?
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