IELTS VIP Podcast: How to Write IELTS Essays Like a Native English Speaker

Summary

In this Isles VIP podcast, Chris discusses the unique characteristics of Western essay writing, which often challenge non-native English speakers preparing for the IELTS exam. He emphasizes the importance of adapting to Western writing styles, such as getting to the main point early, using a clear and logical structure, and expressing individualistic viewpoints. Chris also highlights the need for precise, functional language and the purpose of essays in Western culture, which is to communicate clearly and argue a point with evidence. He encourages students to embrace these differences to succeed in the IELTS and in academic writing in Western universities.

Takeaways

• 🎓 The VIP podcast by Isles Vantage delves into the nuances of Western essay writing, which is crucial for IELTS preparation.
• 🌐 Cultural differences can significantly impact essay writing styles, and understanding these is key for non-native English speakers.
• 📝 Western essays typically start with a clear main point, which contrasts with other cultures that may save the thesis for later.
• 📈 The structure of Western essays follows a logical order: introduction, main body with detailed points, and a summarizing conclusion.
• 🔄 Repeating main points in both the introduction and conclusion is common in Western writing to reinforce the essay's argument.
• 🧠 A linear, logical progression of ideas is valued in Western essays, which differs from more meandering styles in some other cultures.
• 💭 Individualistic perspectives are common in Western writing, where authors often express a clear, personal opinion on the topic.
• 📚 The language used in Western academic writing is precise and functional, with a focus on clarity rather than poetic flourish.
• 📝 The purpose of an essay in Western culture is to communicate clearly and argue a point with evidence, rather than merely stating opinions.
• 🌟 Adapting to Western essay writing styles is essential not just for IELTS success but also for academic and professional writing in English-speaking countries.

Q & A

What is the Isles VIP podcast?

The Isles VIP podcast is a weekly podcast where Chris from Isles Vantage works with a small number of students from their VIP course. Each week, students suggest topics, and Chris creates a 10-20 minute podcast delving deeply into a specific area of the IELTS test.

Why do many students struggle with IELTS writing according to the podcast?

Students often struggle with IELTS writing not because of poor language skills, but because they are unfamiliar with the Western style of essay writing, which is different from what they might be accustomed to in their own culture.

How does Chris's wife's experience moving to Northern Ireland relate to the concept of cultural differences in writing?

Chris's wife found certain cultural practices in Northern Ireland, like making appointments to visit family, strange because they differ from Vietnamese customs. This illustrates how cultural differences can lead to unfamiliarity and challenges when adapting to new ways of doing things, similar to the challenges students face when learning Western essay writing.

What is the typical structure of an essay in an English-speaking country?

The typical structure of an essay in an English-speaking country involves an introduction where the main point is stated, a main body where the points are developed with details and examples, and a conclusion that summarizes the main points.

Why do some students find the Western essay structure challenging?

Some students find the Western essay structure challenging because they are used to a different writing style in their culture, where the main point is revealed towards the end of the essay, not at the beginning.

How does the Western style of essay writing differ in terms of language use?

In Western essay writing, language is used precisely and functionally to communicate ideas clearly. It avoids overly flowery or poetic language, focusing instead on clear and to-the-point expression.

What is the importance of having a clear opinion in Western essay writing?

In Western essay writing, it is important to have a clear opinion and to state it upfront. This individualistic approach contrasts with more collectivist cultures where essays might present multiple viewpoints without a clear personal stance.

Why is the logical order of points important in Western essays?

The logical order of points in Western essays helps to create a clear and structured argument. It allows readers to follow the writer's thought process easily, enhancing the essay's clarity and persuasiveness.

How does the purpose of essay writing in Western culture differ from other cultures?

In Western culture, the purpose of essay writing is to clearly communicate with the reader and present a clear argument with justifications and evidence. This contrasts with cultures where the essay might serve different purposes, such as showcasing vocabulary or exploring ideas from multiple perspectives.

What advice does Chris give to students who are frustrated with the differences in essay writing styles?

Chris advises students not to be frustrated by the differences in essay writing styles but to learn and adapt to the Western way of writing, as it is necessary for success in the IELTS test and for academic writing in Western universities.