IELTS Writing Task 2: Agree/Disagree Essay Quiz Quiz

Assess your understanding of the key strategies, structure, and language needed to excel in the IELTS Writing Task 2 agree/disagree essay. This quiz covers essay organization, argument development, formal vocabulary, and common pitfalls in opinion-based writing tasks.

1. Identifying the Best Thesis Statement

   Which of the following thesis statements is most suitable for an IELTS Writing Task 2 agree/disagree essay prompt such as 'Do you agree or disagree with the view that public transport should be free for everyone?'

   1. Public transport is used by many people in big cities.
   2. I completely agree that public transport should be free as it benefits society and the environment.
   3. In my essay, I will discuss both sides of this issue.
   4. People need to find ways to get cheaper transport.

   Explanation: The correct answer states a clear opinion and briefly supports it, which is ideal for the agree/disagree essay style. The second option merely states a fact about public transport. The third option is inappropriate because the task requires you to give your own opinion, not just discuss both sides. The fourth option lacks a direct opinion about the main issue presented in the prompt.

2. Paragraph Structure in Agree/Disagree Essays

   What is the most effective way to organize body paragraphs in an IELTS agree/disagree essay to demonstrate a clear position?

   1. Present both sides equally in every paragraph.
   2. Explain your opinion in just one body paragraph and use the other to summarize the essay.
   3. Devote each body paragraph to one different supporting reason for your opinion.
   4. Use one body paragraph for the introduction and the other for examples.

   Explanation: Each body paragraph should focus on a distinct argument supporting the writer's opinion, allowing for clear and logical development of ideas. Using only one paragraph for explanation limits depth and development. Presenting both sides equally does not show a clear position, which is required. An introduction should not be used as a body paragraph, nor is simply giving examples sufficient.

3. Using Formal Academic Language

   Which sentence best demonstrates formal academic language appropriate for an IELTS agree/disagree essay?

   1. I reckon free transportation is a good move.
   2. I believe that providing free public transport will significantly improve urban life.
   3. Lots of people think buses shouldn't cost a thing.
   4. You gotta agree that buses should be free for everyone.

   Explanation: This sentence uses formal language, presents a clear opinion, and employs suitable vocabulary for an academic essay. The phrase 'I reckon' is informal, 'You gotta agree' uses slang and is overly conversational, and 'Lots of people think' is vague and not formal enough for IELTS essays.

4. Addressing the Essay Prompt Completely

   If the prompt says 'To what extent do you agree or disagree?', what is the best approach to answering the question for maximum clarity?

   1. Explain the background and avoid giving your own view.
   2. Summarize what most people believe about the issue.
   3. Only write about why you disagree with the statement.
   4. Clearly state your level of agreement or disagreement and provide specific reasons.

   Explanation: The task demands a clear indication of your position along with supporting arguments. Writing only about disagreement does not reflect your position's extent if you partially agree. Summarizing others' beliefs or avoiding the expression of your own view does not address the prompt directly.

5. Common Pitfall in IELTS Agree/Disagree Essays

   What is a frequent mistake candidates make when writing agree/disagree IELTS essays?

   1. Writing more than the recommended number of words.
   2. Failing to give a clear opinion throughout the essay.
   3. Giving examples or evidence to support their opinion.
   4. Using linking words to connect ideas.

   Explanation: A common issue is not maintaining a clear, consistent opinion from introduction to conclusion, which can confuse the examiner. Using linking words and providing evidence are encouraged and improve coherence. Writing more words is less frequent and not directly related to essay quality.