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Writing Task 2 Sample (Full Tutorial + Practice Exercise)

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Tutorial

Welcome to the IELTS Writing Task 2 Tutorial! This guide helps IELTS test-takers and English learners improve their writing skills for the IELTS exam.

We'll cover important topics like:

  • essay structure
  • strategies
  • grammar
  • vocabulary
  • and time management

Understanding IELTS Writing Task 2

In Writing Task 2, you need to write an essay about a viewpoint, argument, or issue. You have 40 minutes to finish, and your essay should be at least 250 words.


Example Task 2 Question

Many criminals commit more crimes as soon as they are released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest?


Step-by-Step Approach to Writing a High-Scoring Answer

Step 1: Analyze the Question

Identify the Keywords: "criminals," "commit more crimes," "released from prison," "causes," and "solutions." Understand the Requirements: You need to discuss both the causes of repeated crimes and suggest possible solutions.

Step 2: Plan Your Essay

  • Introduction: Introduce the topic and outline what your essay will cover.
  • Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the causes of recidivism.
  • Body Paragraph 2: Suggest possible solutions to reduce recidivism.
  • Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your opinion.

Recidivism (noun): The tendency of a convicted criminal to re-offend and commit more crimes after being released from prison. It refers to the repeat of undesirable behavior despite having faced consequences for it before.

Step 3: Write the Introduction

  • Start with a General Statement: Many offenders resume their criminal activities shortly after being released from incarceration.
  • Thesis Statement: The main reasons for this behavior include a lack of rehabilitation and societal rejection. However, implementing effective reintegration programs and providing community support can mitigate this issue.

Step 4: Develop Body Paragraphs

Body Paragraph 1: Causes

  • Topic Sentence: One significant cause of recidivism is the lack of effective rehabilitation programs in prison.
  • Supporting Details: Many prisons focus more on punishment than reintegrationn, leaving inmates unprepared for life outside.
  • Example: A study found that inmates who participated in educational programs were less likely to re-offend.
  • Additional Cause: Another reason is the societal rejection faced by ex-convicts.
  • Supporting Details: Employers and communities often stigmatize former prisoners, making it difficult for them to find jobs and reintegrate.
  • Example: Statistics show that unemployment rates among ex-offenders are significantly higher than the general population.

Body Paragraph 2: Solutions

  • Topic Sentence: To address recidivism, comprehensive reintegration programs should be implemented.
  • Supporting Details: These programs can include vocational training, education, and counseling services.
  • Example: Countries with robust reintegration programs report lower recidivism rates.
  • Additional Solution: Providing community support and reducing stigma against ex-convicts is crucial.
  • Supporting Details: Awareness campaigns and incentives for employers to hire former inmates can aid their reintegration.
  • Example: Programs that connect ex-offenders with community mentors have shown promising results in reducing repeat offenses.

Step 5: Write the Conclusion

  • Restate Main Points: In conclusion, the primary causes of recidivism are inadequate rehabilitation and societal rejection.
  • Summarize Solutions: Effective reintegration programs and community support are essential to reduce re-offending rates.
  • Final Thought: Addressing these issues can lead to a safer society and more productive citizens.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

1. Not Answering All Parts of the Question

  • Mistake: Focusing only on causes or solutions.
  • Solution: Ensure you address both the causes and solutions as required by the question.

2. Lack of Clear Structure

  • Mistake: Writing an essay without clear paragraphs or logical flow.
  • Solution: Follow a structured approach with a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.

3. Poor Grammar and Vocabulary

  • Mistake: Using incorrect grammar or limited vocabulary.
  • Solution: Practice using a variety of sentence structures and learn new vocabulary words relevant to common IELTS topics.

4. Poor Time Management

  • Mistake: Spending too much time on one part of the essay and rushing through the rest.
  • Solution: Set specific times for planning, writing, and reviewing. For example, spend 5 minutes planning, 30 minutes writing, and 5 minutes reviewing. This helps make sure each part of the essay gets enough attention and improves its overall quality.

Vocabulary for IELTS Practice Exercise - Fill in the Blanks

Complete the following sentences using the information provided in this tutorial:

1. One significant cause of recidivism is the lack of effective ___________________ programs in prison.

awareness
rehabilitation
ability

2. Many prisons focus more on punishment than ___________________, leaving inmates unprepared for life outside.

training
education
reintegration

3. To address recidivism, comprehensive reintegration programs should include ___________________, education, and counseling services.

community
discussion
vocational training

4. Providing community support and reducing ___________________ against ex-convicts is crucial.

stigma
offences
sentences

5. In conclusion, the primary causes of recidivism are inadequate rehabilitation and ___________________ rejection.

criminal
societal
social


Score =

Correct answers:

IELTS Writing Task 2 Summary

To master IELTS Writing Task 2, you need practice, a good grasp of essay structure, and clear expression of ideas. Follow this step-by-step approach, avoid common mistakes, and practice regularly to improve your writing skills and score high on the IELTS exam.

Try answering these authentic Cambridge IELTS Task 2 Writing questions for extra practice.

Good luck!


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