IELTS Academic Writing

 1 )  Academic Writing Task 1

 2)   Academic Writing Task 2

The IELTS Academic Writing test is made up of two tasks, Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2. The questions in the Academic Writing test are different to those in the General Training Writing test.

In Academic Writing Task 1, you will be shown a visual representation of information; a graph, table, chart or diagram, and you are asked to summarise, describe or explain the information you see. Make sure you organise your response into three main parts, the introduction, an overview and the main features supported by figures from the diagram..

Depending on the type of input and the task suggested, test takers are assessed on their ability to:

  •     organise, present and possibly compare data
  •     describe the stages of a process or procedure
  •     describe an object or event or sequence of events
  •     explain how something works.

 

In Academic Writing Task 2, you will be presented with a point of view, argument, or problem. The topics can range from the environment to immigration, culture, and even technology. You might be asked to, agree or disagree with a point of view or argument, discuss two opposing views, write about the advantages or disadvantages of a topic, or explain a given problem, or the cause of a problem and offer a solution. Your response for Academic Writing Task 2 will need to be in an essay format. 

 

Test takers are assessed on their ability to:

  •     present the solution to a problem
  •     present and justify an opinion
  •     compare and contrast evidence, opinions and implications
  •     evaluate and challenge ideas, evidence or an argument.


Topics are of general interest and suitable for test takers entering undergraduate or postgraduate studies or seeking professional registration.

Test takers should support their ideas with evidence based on their own knowledge or experience.

 

IELTS MARKING AND ASSESSMENT

In both tasks, test takers are assessed on their ability to write a response which is appropriate in terms of content, the organisation of ideas, and the accuracy and range of vocabulary and grammar.

Each task is assessed independently.

Assessment of writing performance is carried out by examiners trained and certified by British Council, IDP: IELTS Australia or IELTS USA.

Scores are reported as a whole band or half band. Detailed assessment criteria have been developed, which describe written performance at the nine IELTS bands.