Easily Write a Longer Answer! Duolingo English Test Writing Tips

Summary

This video script offers strategies for acing the Duolingo English Test's main writing section, which requires candidates to write at least 50 words in five minutes. It emphasizes the use of academic English phrases to enhance responses and meet the word count. The script introduces advanced phrases for stating opinions, transitioning to new ideas, making concessions, giving examples, and crafting concluding sentences. It also suggests using these techniques to structure paragraphs effectively and advises on word count, recommending 70 to 100 words for a good score.

Takeaways

• 🕒 **Time Management**: The Duolingo English Test requires at least 50 words within a 5-minute limit for the main writing question.
• 📝 **Academic Phrases**: Utilize academic English phrases to enhance the quality and length of responses.
• 🗣️ **Introducing Opinions**: Phrases like 'With regard to' and 'Regarding' can be used to introduce opinions more formally than 'I think' or 'In my opinion'.
• 🔗 **Topic Sentences**: Start paragraphs with a topic sentence that outlines the opinion and sets the structure for the rest of the paragraph.
• 🔄 **Transition Phrases**: Use 'Furthermore, it's worth noting that' and 'Moreover, we cannot overlook the fact that' to transition to new ideas and add emphasis.
• 📈 **Supporting Ideas**: Incorporate multiple supporting arguments to back up the opinion stated in the topic sentence.
• 🤔 **Making Concessions**: Consider the alternative point of view to demonstrate a well-rounded understanding of the topic, although not mandatory for the test.
• 🌰 **Giving Examples**: Provide clear examples to solidify arguments, using phrases like 'To provide a clear example' or 'This is exemplified by'.
• 🔚 **Concluding Sentences**: End with a concluding sentence that restates the main idea using phrases such as 'Given these points, it's clear that'.
• 📈 **Word Count**: Aim for a word count between 70 to 100 words for a good score, although the example provided is 105 words.

Q & A

What is the minimum word count requirement for the main writing question on the Duolingo English Test?

The minimum word count requirement for the main writing question on the Duolingo English Test is at least 50 words within the five-minute time limit.

What is the purpose of using academic English phrases in the Duolingo English Test writing section?

Using academic English phrases in the Duolingo English Test writing section is to not only improve the quality of the answer but also to increase the length of the response, which is crucial for meeting the word count requirement.

How can one introduce their opinion in the 'read that right' question type on the Duolingo English Test?

One can introduce their opinion in the 'read that right' question type by using phrases such as 'With regard to... I believe that...' or 'Regarding... I am of the opinion that...' to sound more advanced and to structure the topic sentence effectively.

What is a transition phrase that can be used to introduce a second or third opinion in the writing section?

To introduce a second or third opinion, one can use transition phrases like 'Furthermore, it's worth noting that...' or 'Moreover, we cannot overlook the fact that...' to add more information and emphasize points.

What is the significance of making concessions in the writing section of the Duolingo English Test?

Making concessions in the writing section of the Duolingo English Test is significant as it shows a good understanding of the topic and the ability to make a well-rounded argument by considering alternative viewpoints.

What are some phrases that can be used to introduce a concession sentence in the writing section?

To introduce a concession sentence, one can use phrases such as 'On the other hand, some argue that...' or 'It's equally important to highlight the downsides of something such as...'

Why is providing examples important in the Duolingo English Test writing section?

Providing examples in the Duolingo English Test writing section is important because it strengthens the argument and makes the paragraph more solid by offering concrete instances that support the main ideas.

What are some alternative phrases to 'for example' that can be used in the Duolingo English Test writing section?

Alternative phrases to 'for example' include 'To provide a clear example...' and 'This is exemplified by...' which can be used to introduce examples in a more academic and varied manner.

How should one write the concluding sentence in the Duolingo English Test writing section?

The concluding sentence in the Duolingo English Test writing section should restate the topic sentence and backup the main ideas. One can use phrases like 'Given these points, it's clear that...' to introduce the concluding sentence.

What is the recommended word count range for a good score on the Duolingo English Test writing section?

The recommended word count range for a good score on the Duolingo English Test writing section is between 70 to 100 words, which is sufficient to demonstrate proficiency and meet the assessment criteria.

Where can one find a full course on how to structure answers correctly for the Duolingo English Test?

A full course on how to structure answers correctly for the Duolingo English Test, including useful grammar, vocabulary, and phrases, can be found through the link provided in the video description, called 'The Ultimate Duolingo Test Program'.