Example answer:.
I think that my country has problems with pollution to the environment like all other countries. This problem is normal for Russia. We have big problems with transport because there are too much cars in our country. And because of that we have problems with atmospeer, air in my city and in all Russia is really dirty and sometimes I can’t make a sigh because it smells around me and of course around that cars on the road. I’ve heard about tradition of one country. They don’t go anywhere by car one day a month or a year, they just use bycicle or their feet. I think it could be very good if we had a tradition like that.
So, what about the rivers and the seas? Yeah, there are some really good and clean rivers and seas where you can go, but there are not many of them. Once I saw the river OB in my city, it was about two years ago but I stil remember that in some places it was not blue, it was green or purple I didn’t really understand because it had different colours.
I don’t know what should we do. Maybe we should just open our eyes and look what we did. But Russian people don’t care about the world around them many people care only about themselves an that’s all.
So, the best idea is look around and try to do something good for our planet and for us and our children.
Practice, write & improve, examiners comments & grade:.
3 | All content is relevant to the task but the target reader is on the whole informed rather than fully informed as, the central question as to whether or not the problems can be solved has not really been addressed. The candidate discusses the environmental impact of transport and the cleanliness of rivers, and provides one suggested solution for the problem of transport (They don’t go anywhere by car one day a month). The writer’s opinion is clear in I think it could be very good if we had a tradition like that. No solutions are discussed for rivers and seas, and no third aspect of environmental damage is provided. | |
| 3 | The conventions of essay writing are used; there is an opening statement and a development of the subject matter, with a conclusion at the end. The register is suitably neutral for the most part, although the use of a colloquial yeah is not consistent with the rest of the essay. The essay is written for the most part in an objective way, but there is use of personal, subjective examples (Once I saw the river; I can’t make a sigh), which lessen the impact of the bigger problems. The target reader’s attention is held and straightforward ideas are communicated |
3 | The text is generally well organised and coherent. It is separated into paragraphs and the punctuation is generally used effectively, although there are some long sentences (And because of that we have problems with atmospeer, air in my city and in all Russia is really dirty and sometimes I can’t make a sigh because it smells around me and of course around that cars on the road). There is a variety of linking words (because; and; So; because of that) and some cohesive devices such as referencing pronouns, relative clauses and rhetorical questions to connect the ideas within the text. | |
3 | There is a range of everyday vocabulary used appropriately, and although there are errors, they do not impede communication (atmospeer; bycicle; sigh). There is a range of simple and some more complex grammatical forms: past and present verb forms are used with a good degree of control. |
To begin with pollution and damage to the environment is the most serious and difficult problem for countries of all over the world. Scientists of different countries predict a global ecocatastrophe if people won’t change their attitude to our planet.
First of all a huge damage to the environment brings a transport. People can’t imagine their living without cars, buses, trains, ships and planes. But it’s an open secret that one of disadvantage of these accustomed things is harmful exhaust. Needless to say that use of environment friendly engines helps us to save atmosphere from pollution.
In addition to this our rivers and seas are in not less danger situation. It’s a fact of common knowledge that numerous factories and plants pour off their waste to ponds. Obviously that cleaning manufacturing water helps to avoid extinction of ocean residents.
Apart from this I’m inclined to believe that every person can and must contribute to solving this important problem. Doing a little steps for protection our environment every day we will be able to save our Earth. And it’s a task of each of us.
4 | All content is relevant to the task. However, the target reader is on the whole informed, rather than being fully informed. Both numbered points (transport; rivers and seas) are referred to with some discussion of the problems caused (harmful exhaust; factories which pour off their waste to ponds) and some limited mention of solutions. No tangible 3rd aspect of environmental damage is discussed. While the writer does conclude with a strong statement of opinion (every person can and must) the reader is not fully informed on the solutions proposed (Doing a little steps for protection our environment every day we will be able to save our Earth) | |
| 3 | The essay is written in a consistently neutral register and the format is appropriate for the communicative task, using more formal language to introduce the ideas within the text (To begin with; First of all; It’s a fact of common knowledge). There is a clear essay structure with an opening statement, topic paragraphs and a conclusion which sums up the writer’s point of view. Straightforward ideas are communicated to the target reader but when more complex ideas are attempted these are sometimes not as successful (Obviously that cleaning manufacturing water helps to avoid extinction of ocean residents). |
3 | The text is generally well organised and coherent, using a variety of linking words and cohesive devices, particularly to introduce the ideas throughout the text (To begin with; In addition to this; Needless to say; Apart from this). The essay is clearly organised into paragraphs, which each deal with one idea. Occasionally the followup examples are not as clearly connected as they could be. For example, they discuss how factories pollute pond water and then offer a solution which would help ocean residents | |
3 | There is a range of everyday vocabulary used appropriately with some attempt to use more sophisticated lexis (a global ecocatastrophe; atmosphere; common knowledge; factories and plants; inclined to believe; must contribute to solving). There is a range of simple and some more complex grammatical forms used, and although there are errors, these do not impede communication (a huge damage; People can’t imagine their living without cars; one of disadvantage; in not less danger situation). |
DEVELOPMENT VS ENVIRONMENT
If we surf the web looking for pollution and environmental catastrophes, we will find out that every country in the world suffers them. This is a natural consequence of the struggle between development and environment.
If a country decided to live isolated from the rest of the world, living on what it can naturally grow and produce, it surely wouldn’t be highly polluted. But we all want exotic food and technological items from all over the world, so we have to pay the price.
Investing on electrical transport would benefit the environment a lot. Even more if this electricity came from a natural source of energy like wind, rivers and solar boards. It’s difficult to achieve this because petrol companies will fight against these actions.
We also have to take care of our rivers and seas. We all have heard about factories throwing highly toxic substances to rivers, without minimizing their poisoning effects. A really strict law should be applied to fine these factories and make them change their policy.
But what about ourselves? We also can do a lot! If, when possible, we bought larger packs of food, we would be producing less rubbish. And this is only an example!
5 | All content is relevant to the task and the target reader is fully informed. Transport is discussed with suggestions of how using different forms of transport would help the environment (Investing on electrical transport would benefit the environment a lot). The candidate then evaluates the suggestion (It’s difficult to achieve this …). Water pollution is described and a solution is offered (A really strict law should be applied to fine these factories). The writer’s opinion is clear in the choice of modal should. A third aspect (waste reduction) is introduced in the final paragraph with a suggestion about how to achieve this (If, when possible, we bought larger packs of food …). The writer’s opinion is expressed clearly (We also can do a lot!). | |
| 5 | The conventions of the essay format are used effectively to hold the target reader’s attention. There is an introductory paragraph which outlines the issues in general terms, and the concluding paragraph sums up in more concrete terms, what we, the readers can do to help. The register is consistently appropriate and the subject matter is dealt with in an objective manner, for example Investing on electrical transport; If a country decided. Straightforward and complex ideas are communicated (It’s difficult to achieve this because petrol companies will fight against these actions). |
4 | The essay is well organised and coherent, using a variety of cohesive devices. The paragraphs are introduced in a variety of ways, using grammatical structures rather than obvious linkers (If we surf the web; If a country decided; Investing on; We also have to; But what about). More could be done to link across the paragraphs, to make them less independent, but the overall effect is of a cohesive text. | |
5 | There is a wide range of vocabulary, including less common lexis used appropriately (environmental catastrophes; highly polluted; exotic food; highly toxic substances; minimizing their poisoning effects; change their policy). There is a range of simple and complex grammatical forms used with a good degree of control and flexibility to convey certain ideas succinctly. There are minimal errors which do not impede communication. |
In your English class you have been talking about the fashion industry. Write an essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view. |
In today’s world, the fashion industry has a strong importance in people’s lives. The fashion industry say to the society what to wear and creates new types of clothes all the time.
Some people claim that the fashion industry has a bad effect on people’s lives, they say that the fashion industry creates clothes that the society has to wear. Furthermore, the clothes’ price is extremely high and people, who can’t afford it, should not be in the society.
In the other hand, the fashion industry guide the people to be in a good appearance, because, nowadays, the appearance of the person is more important than the person itself.
In my opinion, the fashion industry doesn’t has a bad influence on people’s lives. It’s something which was created to help people what to wear.
5 | All content is relevant and the target reader is fully informed. The essay discusses the role of the fashion industry and expresses some negative aspects (nowadays, the appearance of the person is more important than the person itself) and also cost (the clothes’ price is extremely high). The candidate also expresses their own idea, suggesting that the fashion industry has a lot of influence on people (say to the society what to wear). The candidate concludes the essay with an opinion, which sums up the main points made. | |
| 2 | Some of the conventions of essay writing are used appropriately. The register and tone are consistently formal and there are some expressions which are appropriate for an essay (In today’s world; Some people claim; Furthermore; In my opinion). There is also an introduction and a conclusion. Although straightforward ideas are communicated, the target reader’s attention is not always held. For example, the final paragraph attempts to sum up the main points, but the ideas are not clearly expressed. |
2 | The text is generally well organised and coherent. There is a clear structure to the text with an introduction, main body and conclusion. Paragraphs are used for the development of ideas. The text is connected using linking words and a limited number of cohesive devices, some of which are misused. More use of pronouns would limit the repetition of key phrases. | |
2 | There is a range of everyday, topic-specific vocabulary, which is used appropriately (creates new types of clothes; Some people claim; extremely high; is more important than). Simple grammatical forms are used with a good degree of control, although the use of verbs in the third person is not consistent. There are attempts to express ideas using a range of grammatical forms, passives and modals for example, but these are less successful (people, who can’t afford it, should not be in the society; the fashion industry guide the people to be in a good appearance; It’s something which was created to help people what to wear). Errors are noticeable but meaning can still be determined. |
Fashion industry is very a discussed subject nowadays: they create and design new clothes everyday in order to satisfy some people needs.
There are many people who claim that the fashion industry is important and good for society. According to them, this industry design beautiful clothes and thanks to that every person can wear shirts, trousers or any acessory which is on today’s fashion.
On the other hand, the fashion industry in some people opinion, controls the market of clothes and because of that they can’t wear what they want to. In addition, the industry can increase the price of clothes, forcing people who don’t want to be “oldfashioned” to buy and pay a large amount of money to keep “beautiful”.
In my opinion, we can’t let the fashion industry decide what we must or musn’t wear. We shouldn’t judge people for its appearance,because that is not important. We must wear whatever we like, want and feel confortable with.
5 | All content is relevant to the task and the target reader is fully informed. The candidate discusses the importance of appearance in terms of fashion (this industry design beautiful clothes and thanks to that …) and concludes that We shouldn’t judge people for its appearance. The negative aspect of the price of clothes is mentioned and an opinion given on how this affects people’s choice (forcing people … to buy and pay a large amount of money to keep “beautiful”). A third aspect states how choice for consumers is limited due to the fashion industry’s control over design and the market (the fashion industry in some people opinion, controls the market of clothes) | |
| 3 | The conventions of essay writing are used appropriately. There is an introduction, topic paragraph and a conclusion. The register is appropriate for the task, using generally neutral language to discuss both positive and negative aspects of the question. Straightforward ideas are communicated, using some appropriate language (in order to; According to them; the industry can increase) to introduce the ideas, and to hold the target reader’s attention. |
4 | The essay is well organised and coherent. There is a clear overall structure and the ideas are linked across sentences and paragraphs using referencing, substitution and paraphrasing to avoid repetition. There are a variety of appropriate linking words and cohesive devices (many people who; According to them; this industry; thanks to that; On the other hand; In addition; In my opinion). | |
3 | A range of everyday, topic-specific vocabulary is used appropriately (to satisfy some people needs; good for society; controls the market; forcing people) but some errors do occur with less common lexis and expressions (on today’s fashion). A range of simple and some complex grammatical forms is used with a good degree of control (can increase the price of clothes, forcing people who don’t want to be). There are some repeated errors with prepositions and third person verbs, but these do not impede communication. |
The society we live today is characterised by technology in constant development, fast speed processes, information travelling and getting to people at a blink of an eye and a complex web of social networking. In this context, the fashion industry is becoming increasingly important and having a more and more paramount role in our lives.
On one hand, the fashion industry is undeniably a source of profit and income. It hires millions of people all over the world and generates millions of dollars every year. Furthermore, such profitable business is also believed to be able to spread and make known the culture of a people, encouraging and enhancing a better understanding of each other.
Nevertheless, for those who are neither impressed nor motivated by numbers and figures, the fashion industry is seen as one which segregates people, isolating those who not fit their laws and commands. It is stated that people place too much importance on appearance and the material, world, sadly true, and the fashion industry just spurs on such situation. Moreover, not only are the costs of fashion item unrealistically high, it is thought to be a money better spent on more pressing issues, such as poverty and hunger.
I do believe that the fashion industry, as it is today, has a harmful effect, because it values a minority of people in detriment to the majority. However, it has such a wide reach that, it put into a good use, it can save lives.
5 | All content is relevant to the task and the target reader is fully informed. The candidate presents a balanced argument, discussing their own idea first that the fashion industry is important as it provides jobs and income for a huge number of people. The essay then discusses the negative aspect of the fashion industry in relation to appearance (the fashion industry is seen as one which segregates people; people place too much importance on appearance). Finally, the high cost of fashion is mentioned in relation to the price of clothes and it is suggested that money could be better spent on social issues rather than on fashion. | |
| 5 | The conventions of essay writing are used effectively to hold the target reader’s attention. The register and tone are consistently appropriate and there is a range of suitable expressions which introduce both positive and negative aspects of the question, which are balanced throughout the essay. Straightforward and more complex ideas are communicated, making links between the importance of fashion in consumers’ lives and how the fashion industry affects people, communities and wider society (the fashion industry is undeniably a source of profit and income. It hires millions of people all over the world; it values a minority of people in detriment to the majority). |
5 | The essay is well organised and coherent. There is a clear overall structure and the ideas are linked effectively across paragraphs and sentences through the use of paraphrasing, substitution, ellipsis and referencing (In this context; It hires; such profitable business is also believed; Nevertheless, for those who; sadly true; such situation; not only are). Organisational patterns are used to generally good effect, for example links are made between fashion and industry, fashion and finance and fashion and society throughout the text, making clear connections between the separate aspects. | |
5 | There is a range of vocabulary, including less common lexis which is used appropriately in most cases (is characterised by; at a blink of an eye; paramount role; undeniably; the culture of a people; enhancing; neither impressed nor motivated; segregates; isolating; in detriment to). A range of simple and complex grammatical forms is used with control and flexibility to express more complex ideas. Although there are some errors, these mainly occur when more ambitious language is attempted and do not impede communication. |
In your English class, you have been talking about learning languages. Now your English teacher has asked you to write an essay for homework. Write an essay using the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.
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“There are more reasons to learn a foreign language than to pass a test”
Everything around us revolves around language(s), it is the most important thing in our lives. Society would just not function without it. They are It is our future and I would personaly love to learn as many as I possibly can.
Not everything in life is done because it is necessary. Learning a new language can be a lot of fun. Many people only do it as a hoby, or their knowledge is something that brings them pride and pleasure.
Secondly, we have people who do it simply to challenge themselves. Truly I believe that having a great outcome that stems from your hard work and dedication to learn something new is a wonderful way to challenge prove your ability to yourself and others. Then there is travelling. It is very important to be able to understand and have a conversation with someone abroad, unless you would like to get lost or worse.
To conclude, I think that learning a new language is an amazing thing no matter why you do it. It is always better to do things out of enjoyment, but even if you do it for a test, that knowledge will always be useful.
5 | All of the content is relevant to the task. The candidate has discussed pleasure, personal challenge and travel as different motivations for learning a language, so the target reader is fully informed. | |
| 5 | The conventions of the essay genre have been used effectively to hold the target reader’s attention. Straightforward and complex ideas have been communicated: |
4 | The text is well organised and coherent, using a variety of linking words and cohesive devices: | |
4 | A range of vocabulary, including less common lexis, is used appropriately: A range of simple and some complex grammatical forms has been used with control and some fexibility: The errors do not impede communication: … |
Learning a a foreign languages is very important nowadays. English, in particular, is essential because it allows is spoken all over the world. That’s the reason why we start studying it from the age of six years old. Going abroad and being able to speak to native people is very satisfying and that’s why I want to improve my knowledge about foreign languages.
I decided to take this exam to know how high my level of English is, but also because I need this certification to go abroad next summer. I really want to come back to Cornwall, an amazing region in the South-West of England. I’ve been there twice with my family, but now I want to go alone. Only being there to England I can really improve my English comprehension and speaking skills.
Fortunately I can will have some English lessons which taught in English at university and I can’t wait for it because it will be an interesting challenge for me. Studying foreign languages is essential to live and to travel. It isn’t simple and I surely have to challenge myself everyday, but the result is so satisfying that we I can’t do without it.
3 | There is some minor irrelevance here, since the focus of the discussion seems to be the candidate’s personal experience and motivation, and the points about learning for pleasure and personal challenge are only incidentally addressed. The target reader is on the whole informed. | |
| 4 | The conventions of the essay genre have been used to hold the target reader’s attention. Straightforward and some complex ideas have been communicated: |
3 | The text is generally well organised and coherent, using a variety of linking words and cohesive devices: | |
4 | A range of vocabulary, including less common lexis, has been used appropriately: A range of simple and complex grammatical forms has been used with a good degree of control: The errors do not impede communication: |
In your English class you have been talking about learning history at school. Now, your English teacher has asked you to write an essay. Write an essay using all the notes and giving reasons for your point of view.
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A very common topic that is being discussed nowadays is wether schools should teach subjects that some may consider useless later in life. A clear example is history, since it is quite difficult to learn and does not help us in day-to-day activities.
However, many people do not realize the importance of it or that it affects our lives today. For example, our political system would not be this way if it weren’t for the Ancient Greeks, numerous politicians and wars who helped shape democracy and our constitution. Yet it is still thought that it’s useless.
In addition, it is very important that we never forget about our past since we must know where we were standing years ago. Moreover, there are some things, such as World War II, that we have to remember to prevent them from happening again. We should also know where we we were standing a century ago: our origins, our identity. The more you learn about your ethnicity, the better.
All in all, I think that it is extremely important to learn about one’s own country’s history. Anyone who gets the chance to do this should not waste it, since they are very fortunate to have this opportunity
5 | All content is relevant to the task and the target reader is fully informed. The first two points have been discussed together in detail and a third point, about origins and identity, has been included. | |
| 5 | The conventions of essay writing have been used effectively to discuss the issues in an informed manner. Straightforward and some more complex ideas, for example the point about the Ancient Greeks and the closing statement, are communicated using an engaging tone which is suitable for a wide audience and which holds the reader’s attention throughout. |
5 | The text is well organised and coherent and makes effective use of a variety of cohesive devices to skilfully connect ideas both within and across sentences and paragraphs. Some organisational patterns are used to good effect, for example the parallel short statements ending the third and fourth paragraphs. | |
5 | There is a range of vocabulary, including less common lexis (numerous politicians; shape democracy and our constitution; our origins, our identity; your ethnicity) used appropriately. There is a range of simple and complex grammatical forms used with control and flexibility. Errors, mainly related to less common lexis, are minimal. |
Breakout English
There have been many occasions where my students have no time to learn the correct B2 essay structure for a Cambridge B2 First exam. Course books often do a great job of providing model answers, useful phrases and much more. However, sometimes people just want to be spoon-fed the correct way to write an essay. Well, are you hungry?
An essay skeleton provides you with the base for an essay, without including any of the content. It includes all the necessary linkers, transitions and placeholders to emulate the ideal B2 essay structure. However, it is incomplete. In an ideal word, these skeletons can be memorised and adapted to any topic that you may find in the B2 First exam. Obviously, it isn’t likely to always be a perfect fit, so it can’t replace learning how to write an essay from scratch. However, if you are short on time or really struggling to produce a passing essay, this skeleton may be helpful.
A Cambridge B2 First essay has a reasonably set structure. This is because the tasks are always similar. Take a look at the task below:
When we analyse the task, the most obvious structure is to write 5 paragraphs. This allows us to keep a clear separation between our three points. It also gives us plenty of opportunities for lovely linking words . With a word limit of 190 words, these paragraphs will be quite short, but that doesn’t mean they can’t be clear and effective.
Our standard paragraph plan for a B2 essay structure is…
The two proposed essay skeletons below follow this paragraph plan in order to produce the perfect B2 essay every time.
We’ve designed two essay skeletons. They are similar but have subtle differences. Either one of them can be used with any topic that may come up in the B2 First exam. If you want to practise using the essay skeletons, try it out with a B2 essay task .
Tim's Free English Lesson Plans
Use them, share them, comment on them, and share my link in return.
A new worksheet for B2+ students to help them add more cohesion to their writing through the use of formal linkers and connectors. Download the handout and key below:
Lead students through the worksheet. Encourage creativity in the final activity. Set students an FCE or CAE part 1 essay for homework.
Label the groups of linkers (A, B, C, D) with the titles in the box based on their function.
REASON ADDITION CONTRAST/CONCESSION CONDITIONALS |
Look at the sentences and choose the correct alternative:
Look at the linkers in group D and match them to their meaning
Complete the sentences with a linker from the previous exercise, more than one answer might be possible.
Use linkers to upgrade these sentences for use in a C1 essay. You can also upgrade the language in the sentences.
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Linking words and expressions to show contrast.
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IELTS Preparation with Liz: Free IELTS Tips and Lessons, 2024
The linking words list below is essential for IELTS writing task 2 for high score. The examiner needs to see a range of linking words in your essay to award you a high score for the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion which is 25% of your marks. You will be checked on your range, accuracy and your flexibility of linking words in IELTS writing task 2. These connecting words are suitable for all types of essay writing as well as GT IELTS writing task 2
These words are often used to either put your paragraphs in order or used inside the paragraph to highlight and organise your supporting points. However, using “Firstly” and “Secondly” to start each body paragraph is considered “mechanical” which means it is like a machine and this isn’t good for people aiming for band 7 and above. So, being flexible using a combination of linking words is better.
You will need to support your main points in your IELTS essay. These linkers inform the reader that extra information is about to be presented.
It is often useful to give examples to support your ideas in IELTS writing task 2. Make sure you use this range of linking words to do so.
To learn how to put examples in sentences for essay writing, please follow this link: How to Add Examples to Essays .
These linking devices can be used for solution essays or any essay when you need to explain the consequences of something.
It is important to be clear about what you mean in your essay. These linking words help you stress particular points.
You often need to give opposite ideas, particularly for discussion essays so the linking words below will help you show the reader when you want to introduce an opposite point. Also you might want to give exceptions to a rule for a concession.
These connecting words will help you explain reasons and causes for something which is very common in IELTS writing task 2, especially for cause / solution essays.
Don’t make a mistake with the way you express your opinion. Watch this video for useful tips on giving your opinion and how to avoid mistakes: IELTS ESSAY: WHEN & HOW to give your opinion
Which is the best? In a nutshell, To sum up, To conclude, In conclusion, Rounding off,
Improve your use of linking words by fill in the gaps below with linking words from the above list.
Click below to reveal the answers:
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HI! DEAR MAM, I HOPE YOU ARE DOING WELL. CAN YOU GIVE ME TIPS FOR IELTS ACADEMIC READING? PLEASE I SHALL BE VERY THANKFUL TO YOU.
REGARD; RAJA AFRASIAB SIDDIQUE
On the HOME page of this website, you’ll find access buttons for lessons and tips for all parts of the test: https://ieltsliz.com/
Dear Liz I see lots of model essays have linking words at the start of paragraphs. Is that important? Do I need to use a linking word in most sentences? Is the word HOWEVER a higher band score than BUT? Thanks
These are all good questions. Linking words are part of the marking criterion of Coherence & Cohesion, which counts for 25% of your marks. Linking words should be used flexibly if you are aiming for a score over band 6. If you use linking words at the start of all or almost all sentences, this is called “mechanical” use of linking words and that means you are using linking words like a machine (stamping them in the same place each time). When you use linking words that way, it is a feature of band 6. For band 7 and above, you must be more flexible. Not all sentences will need a linking word and not all linking words need to be the first word of a sentence. For body paragraphs, a discussion essay might have two body paragraphs which both start with a linking word, for example “On the one hand …..On the other hand”. This is fine. For for an Opinion Essay, the way you start each body paragraph will depend on the main points and you should aim for flexibility.
One linking word does not have a higher score than the other. Your aim is to use a range. For example, don’t repeat the word “although”, you can use despite or in spite of . When you proof read your essay, look out for repeated linking words and change them before your time is up.
What about “besides” at the beginning of a sentence?
Yes, but in some countries, such as Vietnam, this linking word is very much overused. But it is possible to use it.
Good to know that, thank you!
Maam, can you suggest me some sentence structures for writing both tasks?
See my Grammar E-book for writing task 2 in my store: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/ . For writing task 1, see my model answers and lessons which you can use to analyse sentence structures yourself.
Hi Liz thanks mam for your extraordinary IELTS free writing task 2. It is very helpful for me. Thank you very much mam and take my love
You’re welcome 🙂
Hi liz, Could you please provide the marking scheme writing and reading module of IELTS or in other words I am asking for the factors on which student’s band score is decided.
You can find those linked in the main sections for Writing Task 1, Writing Task 2 and Reading, which are all linked by the RED Menu Bar at the top of the website. Marking for reading is based on correct or incorrect answers, but for the writing and speaking test, it’s based on marking criteria. You can also find a link by clicking on the TEST INFO option on the RED Menu Bar which shows band score information.
I just saw on the IDP IELTS website it says, “Don’t overuse basic linking words like firstly (instead, try using ‘The first reason for/ The primary reason for this”). Is that really better? Can I continue using ‘firstly’ like you do?
Sincerely, Draven
It is fine to use it. But don’t then use Secondly, Thirdly. When you write like a machine, you get a lower score in Coherence and Cohesion, which counts for 25% of your marks. You could try: Firstly / Another point to consider The first point to consider is / A further consideration it You shouldn’t just learn one option. The linking words you use will depend on the points you want to present. You must learn how to use them flexibily.
liz thank you lot for making all videos. take care of you
Hello Liz, Thank you for this very educative blog. when giving examples in task 2 writing for the academic test, are correct statistics important or can one just use made-up stats?
Your are marked on ideas, supporting ideas, developing ideas, but not numbers. The examiner is not going to check statistical data in task 2. The examiner is marked Task Response, Coherence & Cohesion, Vocabulary and Grammar. This means writing numbers does even help your score that much. Which is better: 1) 75% of people in urban areas feel public transport could be improved. 2) The majority of people living in urban areas feel the public transport could be improved. The second option boosts your vocab score. It is a simple essay based on relevance, not stats and research.
Hi Ms. Liz. Thank you for your lessons 🙂
Thank you very much for your lessons..you deserve to ” The most effective IELTS teacher award ” Thanks once again
It is a misfortune that IELTS mandates the use of linking words for high scores. Especially at the beginning of sentences, linking words quickly tire the reader being pushed around.
If linking words tire the reader, they are not being used properly. You are being tested on using them flexibly in a way that supports the reader.
mam I would like to share a small problem which I facing almost last 10 days in IELTS classes. I’m not good in writing even I don’t know what to write or what to add .and what to think . could you tell me how can I improve .I will looking for your generous response
You can find model essays and tips on the main writing task 2 page of this website for free: https://ieltsliz.com/ielts-writing-task-2/ . But for some people, they need more training. My advanced lessons take you step by step through each paragraph and explain the content of each type of essay. You can find these lessons in my online store: https://elizabethferguson.podia.com/ . You can also find an Ideas for Essay Topics E-book, which contains ideas and vocabulary for topics. You memorise the ideas and adapt them to your essay topic. There’s also a Grammar E-book with many examples of sentence structures to help you. Hopefully all these will help you be clearer about how to tackle an IELTS essay and what to write.
Hi Liz, Can you allocate me some of the pre-ready templates which can be used as a topic statement in starting of the paragraph.
I do not provide them because they are the worst thing to do for your IELTS essay. IELTS does not accept memorised language and the higher band scores are all about flexibility, not templates. Writing task 1 is more formulaic than task 2 because task 1 is a report and most reports are pretty standard. But writing task 2 is all about creating unique sentences connected directly to the topic. This website is about learning and preparing for IELTS the right way.
very clear explanation Liz, Thanks !
Could i use the word “To recapitulate” in position of “To Conclude”? However l really impressed a lot to see your tremendous efforts for students. THANK YOU SOO MUCH MAM. may God bless you. Love from india 🇮🇳
Yes, you can use it but it won’t increase your score.
Teacher Liz, this is just a general question. Will points be deducted if literary words/phrases are used in IELTS Writing (or Speaking). Is literary factor considered informal? Thank you very much! Looking forward to hearing from your
I’m not exactly sure what you mean as you’ve provided no examples. However, to help understand: The writing test is formal. So, this means all informal language will cause you to lose marks. The only exception is the informal letter in GT writing task 1. The speaking test is informal and you can use all types of language and be as casual as you want in chatting to the examiner. But language should be used naturally, not poetically or in an overemphasized manner. You should talk as though you were talking to a friend.
I love you mam your are such a great teacher i appreciate your work 👍
Hey liz, I wanted to ask that for conclusion using “all in all” and “to wrap it up” are correct to use or not ?
They are informal and Writing Task 2 is formal.
Hi, Liz! You said in one of your videos that “to sum up” is rather informal for IELTS writing task 2. Why is it in the concluding linkers list then? Can I use it or not?
It is an option but some examiners think it is too informal. There are no rules in IELTS which have word lists that lower your score. It is examiner interpretation. I do not teach this linking word for a conclusion, but other teachers do. This is why it is in the list. My recommendations are recommendations, not rules.
Hi Liz, all your videos are very helpful to have a quick look on the respective modules. Thank you so much for sharing them.
You’re welcome.
Thanks for response
Hello Liz 👋, is it true that reading books or newspapers will improve our writing skills. If yes, what books or newspapers can you suggest to read.
They will certainly help you develop your writing, but they won’t help you develop your writing for IELTS.
I wonder if I am allowed to use specialized words in writing task 2 (as long as they are related to the task rubrics and the usage and the collocation is contextually appropriate). For instance, if the topic of the essay is “imprisonment”, am I allowed to use words like “criminals set free might resort to recidivism”? what happens if the examiner doesn’t know that term? I already know that IELTS guidelines demand that the underlying assumption in the writing exam be the candidate is writing for an academic “non-specialist” reader. Is this fact in contradiction with using technical terms?
With regards, Reza
It is not a case of being allowed or not allowed. It is about how you use language. If you are pushing high level words into your essay for effect, the language in the essay will become unnatural and will be marked down. So, never aim to impress. However, your example is completely fine. The word “recidivism” is an appropriate word to use for that sentence. Certainly not many candidates will know this word, but it is 100% accurate and appropriate. So, my advice is to use language naturally with the right intent and appropriacy based on your level of English. The examiner will not be specialised in law or other fields – bear that in mind. Your aim here is to hit band score 8 or 9, not to showcase specialised vocabulary. This is a basic English language test, not a test of legal language for example. Pay attention to the context of the essay – it isn’t an essay for a university degree in law. You don’t need to use specialised language to achieve your aim in IELTS. I would not recommend using such specialised language that a layperson would not understand. That isn’t an IELTS rule, it is just logical – use such language as is appropriate for the audience and the context.
Many thanks for the exhaustive response. You’re simply the best in the field, bar none!
I wonder if it is appropriate to use some linking words like ‘Moreover, Furthermore, Further’ to start a new paragraph? or they should be used to link ideas in between the sentence?
Thank you, Micaela
There are no rules about this. Linking is about being logical. I personally use these linking words for within the paragraph to add more information. When starting a new body paragraph I tend to use something more flexible, such as “Another point to consider is ..” – basically indicating the start of a brand new point rather than additional information to an existing point.
Can we use listing linkers (firstly, secondly etc) for inside the paragraphs? Or is it better to use linkers for organising paragraphs?
I believe we should use the additonal information linkers to support our main idea or present extended ideas.
Any thoughts?
Best using them within paragraphs. To each paragraph, try: Firstly, Another point, Finally. But to be honest, you can’t learn formulas like this for task 2. It all depends what your ideas are as to what linking words to use. You need to learn flexibility if you want a high score. Yes, you should use a good range of linking words in your essay.
Hlo madam , tomorrow will be my ILETS exam
Hi Liz, Do we need to use comm a after these linking word . If yes then in what circumstances. For instance if we use these linking words at the start of sentence what will the case. Also what will be case if we use these linking words in middle of sentence ?
This is an aspect of grammar that you need to study in depth. In a few weeks, I’ll be releasing a Grammar E-book. It will explain all of that and much much more.
Can I use ‘For one’ instead of ‘Firstly’? Can I continue using ‘Secondly’ and ‘Finally’ with ‘For one’ or it’s not correct usage?
“For one”, is informal and not suitable for IELTS essays. Be flexible with your use of linking devices but stick with formal ones.
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50 linking words to use in academic writing. academic writing. linkers. essay writing. thesis. ESL. English. It's very common for students to use long words they don't understand very well in their essays and theses because they have a certain idea of what academic writing should be.
B2 First (FCE) Essay: Tips. Plan your essay before you write. Make sure you know how to comment on all the points that are asked. Invent information if you don't have any ideas. Divide the essay into paragraphs - put one answer in one paragraph. Use advanced vocabulary when you can and formal language.
Linking words at different levels. Let's use Cambridge writing scales as a guide for what we should be using at different levels. At B1 Preliminary (PET) candidates are expected to use basic linking words. Basic linking words are essentially and, so, but and because. At B2 First (FCE) level, a variety of linking words should be used.
CON004 - Connectives and Linking Words. CON003 - Connectives and Linking Phrases. CON002 - Connectives and Linking Phrases. CON001 - Connectives. Prepositions - PDF Worksheets for English Language Learners - Upper intermediate Level (B2)
Increase your mark on your B2 First essay. Include 5-8 linking words - these words introduce paragraphs and connect ideas; Use a variety of grammatical structures - you should have both simple and complex forms. Try to use perfect and future forms, conditionals, comparatives, relative clauses and passive ...
The first part is the essay; the second part is an article, email, letter, report, or review. You will be given the essay title and two ideas or prompts. It's essential that you include both of these ideas in your essay, as well as another relevant idea that you have to come up with yourself. You have to write 140-190 words in each part and ...
These three paragraphs are called the body of the essay. However, an essay wouldn't be an essay without an introduction at the beginning and a conclusion at the end. All together that's five paragraphs and we could structure it like this: With an introduction, body and conclusion every essay has three main parts.
In our essay, we used many linking words, including firstly, secondly, in addition, although, ... For B2 level, the Cambridge mark scheme says, 'Occasional errors may be present but do not impede communication.' That means you can still score 5 from 5, even with some small mistakes.
In Paragraph 1, the use of linking words like "Moreover," "despite," "Additionally," "However," and "Nevertheless" helps create a smooth and connected narrative, indicating additions, contrasts, and causal relationships between different ideas. The paragraph feels more cohesive and organized. In contrast, Paragraph 2 lacks ...
Equally. Like. Too. As. As well as. Moreover. Here are some examples of additive linking words in a sentence. The group found that a constructivist approach leads to higher test scores. Moreover, essay examinations show higher levels of learning.
A comic book. This reading and writing activity looks at how linking words are used in a text. Read the article about comic books and choose a word to complete the sentence. B1-B2. 5-10 minutes. Independent.
Coherence and cohesion play a major role whenever you are writing. In fact, they tend to appear as one of the criteria in most rubrics for assessing written output. Both of these can be promoted through the proper use of linking words.In the chart below you can find a selection of linking words, roughly arranged by communicative function, which could be used for writing tasks in English for ...
Linking words and expressions are essential for B2 First (FCE) essay writing! It is very important that you structure your FCE essay correctly. You must also...
Each paragraph has a clear purpose: Introduction: it introduces the topic in a general way and it leads to the second paragraph (first idea). Paragraph 2: it deals with idea 1. Paragraph 3: it deals with idea 2. Paragraph 4: it deals with idea 3. Conclusion: we express our opinion to conclude and summarise the essay.
The B2 First for Schools Writing paper has two parts and lasts for 1 hour and 20 minutes in total. Candidates have to show that they can write diferent types of text in English. Part 1: Writing an essay. Part 2: Writing an article, email, review or a story.
Unless you finish the essay by tomorrow you won't be able to get a good mark. 13. Neither my father nor my mother will be able to attend the meeting tomorrow. ... Nikolaus ROSMANITZ Subject: Connectives and Linking Words - PDF Worksheet - B2 \(Upper Intermediate\) Created Date: 10/27/2019 6:26:23 AM ...
FCE Essays - Sample/model answers and examiner comments. An essay is always written for the teacher. It should answer the question given by addressing both content points and providinga new content point of the writer's own. The essay should be well organised, with an introduction and an appropriate conclusion,and should be written in an appropriate register and tone
An essay skeleton provides you with the base for an essay, without including any of the content. It includes all the necessary linkers, transitions and placeholders to emulate the ideal B2 essay structure. However, it is incomplete. In an ideal word, these skeletons can be memorised and adapted to any topic that you may find in the B2 First exam.
A new worksheet for B2+ students to help them add more cohesion to their writing through the use of formal linkers and connectors. Download the handout and key below: formal-linkers-2Download key-formal-linkersDownload Lead students through the worksheet. Encourage creativity in the final activity. Set students an FCE or CAE part 1 essay for homework.
Linking Words and Expressions to Show Contrast. Click on the answer A, B or C that completes each sentence. There are EIGHT questions in all. Show all questions.
The linking words list below is essential for IELTS writing task 2 for high score. The examiner needs to see a range of linking words in your essay to award you a high score for the criterion of Coherence and Cohesion which is 25% of your marks. You will be checked on your range, accuracy and your flexibility of linking words in IELTS writing ...