Writing Task 2 — Essay
Task 2 is the same for Academic and General Training. You are given a statement or question and asked to write an essay giving your position with reasons and examples. You have 40 minutes and must write at least 250 words. Task 2 is worth twice the marks of Task 1, so spend the most time here.
How to write a Band 7+ essay
- 1 · Read & planIdentify the question type and exactly what it asks. Spend 5 minutes planning your position and two main ideas before you write — answering the wrong question caps your score.
- 2 · IntroductionParaphrase the question, then give a clear thesis — your direct answer to it. The examiner should know your position from the very first paragraph.
- 3 · Body paragraphsTwo paragraphs, one main idea each. Use the Point → Explain → Example structure and stay on topic throughout. Develop ideas fully rather than listing many shallow ones.
- 4 · ConclusionRestate your position and summarise your main reasons. Add no new ideas. Address every partof the question — a half-answered task can't score above Band 5 for Task Response.