IELTS Writing Task 2: How to write an introduction

Summary

This video teaches how to effectively write an introduction paragraph for an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay. It emphasizes the importance of paraphrasing the statement and clearly expressing your opinion in the thesis statement. The instructor explains the structure of the introduction, focusing on two main parts: the background statement (paraphrased) and the thesis statement (your answer to the question). Tips for creating a well-organized, concise introduction are provided, including advice on word count and handling different solutions within the thesis. The lesson also encourages practicing at home to improve writing skills.

Takeaways

• 😀 A hook is not necessary in an IELTS introduction as it's not assessed and you don't have time for it.
• 😀 The introduction should contain two main parts: the background statement (paraphrase) and the thesis statement (your answer).
• 😀 The background statement should paraphrase the IELTS statement using your own words to express the same meaning.
• 😀 When paraphrasing, you can change the form of words (e.g., 'improve' to 'improving') rather than replacing them entirely.
• 😀 The thesis statement should clearly state your opinion using 'In my opinion...' to make your stance clear to the examiner.
• 😀 It’s okay to include another relevant point in your thesis statement to introduce additional ideas for the body paragraphs.
• 😀 Your thesis statement can be one or two sentences, depending on how you wish to organize it.
• 😀 Keep the introduction between 35-50 words to save time for the body paragraphs, which require more focus.
• 😀 Paraphrasing effectively shows your language proficiency, so practice using different vocabulary and structures.
• 😀 The examiner values clarity and logical structure in your introduction, so make sure your ideas are easily identifiable.
• 😀 Practice writing introductions with various IELTS topics to improve your ability to paraphrase and organize your thoughts quickly.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of the IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction?

The primary purpose of the IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction is to paraphrase the given statement and present the thesis statement, which outlines the writer's opinion and introduces the main ideas of the essay.

Is it necessary to include a hook in the IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction?

No, it is not necessary to include a hook in the IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction. The examiner is not assessing interest, and due to time constraints, focusing on a clear paraphrase and thesis statement is more important.

What are the key components of a typical introduction in an academic essay?

A typical introduction in an academic essay includes three parts: the hook, the background statement, and the thesis statement. However, for IELTS, the focus is on the background statement and thesis statement.

What should be done with the statement provided in the IELTS question prompt?

The statement in the IELTS question prompt should be paraphrased. It is important to rewrite it using your own language while maintaining the same meaning, rather than copying the exact wording.

How can paraphrasing the statement benefit your IELTS essay?

Paraphrasing demonstrates your ability to understand the meaning and use different language structures, which is an important skill assessed in the IELTS Writing Task 2.

What is the thesis statement in an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay?

The thesis statement is your clear answer to the question posed in the prompt. It expresses your opinion and introduces the main points you will discuss in the body paragraphs of the essay.

Should the thesis statement be one sentence or can it be more than one?

The thesis statement can be one or more sentences. While it’s possible to write a concise, single sentence, you may also include additional sentences to introduce more ideas or provide further clarification.

Why is it important to introduce ideas in the thesis statement?

Introducing your ideas in the thesis statement helps the examiner understand your main arguments and prepares them for the body paragraphs, contributing to a logically organized essay.

How should the word count of an IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction be managed?

The introduction should be between 35 and 50 words. It’s important to keep it concise to ensure enough time is left for the body paragraphs, which are crucial for developing your ideas.

What should be avoided when paraphrasing in the IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction?

You should avoid copying the exact wording from the IELTS statement. Instead, focus on paraphrasing the key terms, sometimes altering the word form or using synonyms to express the same idea.