Is the Overview Important in IELTS WT1? Answers

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IELTS Writing Task 1 Overview (Academic Paper): Tips, Videos and Answers

Do all types of writing task 1 have an overview?

Yes. ALL TYPES of writing task 1 for the academic paper should have an overview. The types are listed below.

  1. bar chart
  2. pie chart
  3. table
  4. line graph
  5. map
  6. diagram (process)

All the above types MUST have an overview.

What is an Overview?

  • An overview is a statement or statements which contain all the key features in the task given to you.
  • It is important that the key features are collected in one overview and not put in different places.
  • An overview will contain all features – this means if you have two charts, there is only one overview which contains the key features for both tasks.
  • You are marked on your ability to choose the key features. Each task will be different.

Is the Overview Important?

Yes. It is the most important paragraph in your writing task 1 for the academic paper.

The overview is marked in the marking criterion of Task Achievement. This criterion counts for 25% of your writing task 1 marks. The examiner will look specifically for an overview in all types of writing task 1 (academic). See below:

Band 5 = no clear overview

Band 6 = presents an overview

Band 7 = presents a clear overview

You can see that your score will go up or down depending on your overview. If you miss the overview, you will get Band 5 or below in Task Achievement. If you are aiming for band 7, 8 or 9, you must have a clear overview with key features well selected and highlighted.

Learn more about the band score requirements of IELTS writing task 1 on this page: Band Score Tips & Info Writing Task 1

Overview or Conclusion?

See this video about the difference between an overview and a conclusion.

[su_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/zjzuxyVlkR8″]

Paragraphing: Where to put the overview?

See this video lesson to learn about the paragraphs for writing task 1, including where the overview should be put.

[su_youtube url=”https://youtu.be/TzLyARGcTEA”]

Model Writing Task 1 Answers

See this page to take a look at model answers for all types of IELTS writing task 1. You will see the overviews for ALL types of writing task 1. Model Answers and Tips: IELTS Writing Task 1

Hope this was useful 🙂

All the best

Liz

Filed Under: IELTS Writing Task 1

March & April IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions

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Below you will find a list of IELTS writing task 2 questions which appeared in the IELTS test in the last two months: March and April IELTS writing task 2 topics, You can see some interesting trending topics.

The questions below have been reported by people taking their IELTS writing task 2 in March and April 2018.

Do IELTS repeat questions?

It is possible to have an essay question repeated. But it is more likely that topics will be repeated with questions written differently. You should prepare all topics below and also ALL common topics: 100 IELTS Essay Questions

March IELTS Writing Task 2

  1. Due to the use of the computers and mobile phones, letter-writing ability is disappearing. To what extent do you agree?
  2. Social media has replaced the traditional methods of communicating, and people use more and more social media to communicate, and to follow news and events. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
  3. Some people believe bicycles have a lot of advantages, whereas others believe bicycles have more disadvantages. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  4. Some people prefer to plan activities for their free time very carefully, while others disagree. Discuss both views, and give you opinion.
  5. Some people think that the government should take care of disadvantaged people such as the unemployed and homeless people. Do you agree or disagree?
  6. Museums and art galleries should concentrate on local works of art, not showing the cultures or artworks from other countries. To what extent do you agree?
  7. Some people spend a lot of money on sports and cultural events. Do you think this is this good or bad?
  8. The government should provide free public transportation facilities 24/7 to reduce the traffic congestion. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  9. Some people believe that robots are important for humans to develop their future, while others think that it is a dangerous invention that will impact society negatively. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
  10. When designing a building the intended use of the building should be taken into account rather than its outward appearance. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  11. Nowadays people show more anti-social behaviour and a lack of respect to others. What are the causes of this? How could we improve the situation?
  12. Some people believe that sleeping is the only method which allows people to get enough relaxation. Others believe that physical activities such as playing games and exercises also provide enough relaxation. Discuss both views and provide your opinion.
  13. Some people think that dangerous sports should be ban? Do you agree or disagree?
  14. In many countries, plastic shopping bags are the main type of rubbish. They cause water pollution and land pollution, so they should be banned. To what extent do you agree?
  15. Some people believe that houses should be built in same style as other houses in the area, while others believe people should be allowed by the council to build houses in any style they like. Discuss and give your opinion.

 

April IELTS Writing Task 2

  1. All fathers should be entitled to time off from work when their children are born. What is your opinion?
  2. Nowadays, a lot of movies and music are free to download online. Is it a negative development or a positive development?
  3. Some people prefer hobbies that require technology, while some people prefer hobbies that do not require technology. Discuss the both views and give your opinion.
  4. Pollution and other environmental damages are caused by a country developing and becoming richer. This problem cannot be avoided. To what extent do you agree?
  5. Organised tours are choosing more and more to go to remote places and communities. Do you think this a positive or negative development for the local people and the environment?
  6. The number of people interested in cosmetic surgery is increasing in order to improve their physical appearance. Why do people do operations to change the way they look? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
  7. Some cities have vehicle free days where private cars, trucks and motorcycles are banned in city centres. Only bus, bicycles and taxis are permitted in the city centre. Do you think the benefits outweigh the disadvantages?
  8. In today’s world of advanced science and technology, people still value artists such as painters, musicians and writers. How can art make a difference in our society that science and technology cannot?
  9. In many societies, more and more people are choosing to live on their own. What are the reasons behind this? Is it a positive or negative trend?
  10. It is believed by some that people should take a yearly driving test in order to ensure safety on the roads, while others do not agree. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
  11. Once children start school, teachers have more influence on their intellectual and social development than parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
  12. Some people think that people who are over 60 years old should not work and should be made to retire. To what extend do you agree or disagree?
  13. The key to solving the environmental problems is for the present generation to sacrifice their convenient lifestyle for the sake of future generations. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  14.  It is important for public money to be spent on promoting healthy lifestyle to prevent illness rather than spending money treating people who are ill. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

 

 

Filed Under: IELTS Writing Task 2

Listening for Paraphrases

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This is a new lesson which focuses on your ability to listen for paraphrases and synonyms. This is a skill which you need to do well in your IELTS listening test. This is a short listening practice to help you improve your vocabulary and listening ability. The topic of salt was in the IELTS listening test this month.

In the IELTS listening test, you can listening only once. However, with this practice lesson, you can listen twice if you need to.

The History of Salt: Listening Practice

Questions 1 – 7

Which words can you hear in the recording that have the same meaning as the words below?

Answers will come in order. Answers might be one word or more.

  1. acquired
  2. familiar with
  3. thousands of years
  4. animal skins
  5. limited
  6. originates
  7. world

Listening Practice: Recording

Let me know if you think this is a useful lesson – I’ll make more if it helps you 🙂

Answers

Click below to see the answers for this lesson:

Click here: Answers for Salt Listening Paraphrases

All the best

Liz

 

Filed Under: IELTS Listening

IELTS Complaint Letter: Model

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Below is a model IELTS complaint letter which is estimated at band score 9. People taking the GT writing paper will be expected to write a letter for their writing task 1. That letter should be over 150 words. Complaint letters are one of the most common types of letters that you can be expected to write. This letter topic has appeared a number of times in the IELTS test.

You bought a TV a week ago but when you got home you discovered it did not work properly. You called customer service to report the problem but you have not yet received any help.

Write a letter to the company and in your letter:

  • introduce yourself
  • explain the problem
  • and state what action you would like from the company

Model IELTS Complaint Letter Band 9

The letter below will show you how to organise information into paragraphs and extent information to create a high band score IELTS complaint letter. Note that this is a long letter. People who are below band 9 should not aim for this. It is usually better to aim between 170 and 190 words. Long letters also don’t increase your score. However, I wanted to show you examples of how ideas can be expanded and for this reason, this sample letter is longer than normal.

Dear Sir or Madam,

I am writing this letter to report the faulty TV that I purchased from your company on Tuesday last week.

My name is John Davidson and I am one of your frequent customers. I live in Woodstock and have been using your services and buying your products for the last 11 years.

On Tuesday, 12th June, I visited your store to purchase a TV. I bought a Toshiba LED TV which has the code 40L675B40. On purchasing this TV, I was assured that this was the latest model and the best there was to buy. However, when I got home I discovered that not only did the remote controls not work but also the quality of the picture was not as good as promised, in fact it was quite blurry. I called your customer service department immediately on Tuesday and they assured me that my TV would be replaced or fixed within two days. I am disappointed to say that this has not happened and I have received no communication since then.

I am exceedingly displeased with both the quality of the product I purchased from your company as well as the poor  service I have received since. I hope this problem will be resolved promptly. I expect to receive a replacement TV or have my current TV repaired but only if it could be fixed within a day.

I look forward to hearing back from you immediately.

Yours faithfully,

Mr J H Davidson

Recommended for GT IELTS Writing Task 1

Click below:

Essential Tips for IELTS GT Letters: Writing Task 2

Practice IELTS Letters to practice at home

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Filed Under: IELTS Writing Task 1 Tagged With:

IELTS Speaking: Using Sir or Madam

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Hi guys,

I have had many students asking me how to address the examiner during the speaking test. Let me check what you think and what you understand.

Question

  • Do you think it is ok to call the examiner “Sir” or “Madam” in the speaking test?

Answer

Post your answer below.

I’ll post my answer on tomorrow.

All the best

Liz

Notice: Please remember that I am actually on holiday until May for health reasons – I might extent that holiday if I am not well enough at that point. But this month I will post a couple of lessons for you. Also remember that I do NOT offer a question/answer service on this website. There are over 10,000 comments waiting approval – I can’t answer all questions.

Filed Under: IELTS Speaking

How I Scored IELTS Band 8

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Learn how Dr Jabril scored an overall band 8 in IELTS. His tips and experiences are very insightful.
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IELTS Results

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Overall Band 8
  • Listening 9
  • Reading 8.5
  • Writing 7
  • Speaking 7.5
 

My IELTS Tips for Band 8

Good day, I wrote UKVI academic IELTS and got band score 8 overall.

First of all, I want to appreciate your efforts in making the whole exam process easy for me and others around the world, your lessons really helped a lot.

IELTS Writing 

I’ll start off with my weaknesses. My weakest section was writing, I “hated” it with passion. I don’t enjoy any exam that requires me to write an essay, either short or long, and since this is unavoidable, I always try to find out alternatives/shortcut to the essay writing. Also, I had a very busy work schedule and would get home in the evenings, very tired to read or practice. This is where your tutorials came in, I found it easy to follow, and the way you presented your examples and explained how the essays were marked gave me some confidence in approaching it.

I’ll also say this was one section where I followed your instructions totally, especially in task 2, which I believe helped me to crawl to that 7.0 I got there. I downloaded the sample answer booklet and practiced with the little time I had as you suggested, which made me know the number of lines I needed to get to the required number of words.

The task 1 on the other hand was another issue. The only type of question I did not practice was what we were asked to describe, the maps/diagram description and comparison. I didn’t have enough time to go through all the types and had to select the ones I felt were high yield. This I believed translated to a poor task response and organization which dragged my score in writing down.

 IELTS Speaking

The other section I dreaded was the speaking section, I have this phobia for oral examinations and tend to get nervous about it. Though I went through most of your tips on speaking, I didn’t practice by recording and evaluating my answers, and this affected me in the exam. I don’t think I started well because I was using “sir” for the examiner in the first few minutes and jumbling up my answers, but when I eventually settled in, things began to go smoothly. I believe that early period of nervousness caused me to lose some points, hence the 7.5 for speaking.

 IELTS Listening and Reading

Now to my strong sections, the reading and listening. I love reading a lot and I’ve found IELTS reading passages a lot of fun to read. It provides lots of new information and interesting facts, and I even sometimes just read the passages without answering follow up questions. Despite this though, I didn’t want to take the exam a second time so I still went ahead and watched your video tutorials and followed all your instructions. I wrote my answers in capital letters for both sections, I also practised more of both sections than the writing and speaking, and I found it more convenient to read passages before answering questions.

I need to say here though that it was not all sweet for me during practice as I remembered a listening practice test I did where I scored 26. I just blacked out and lost focus while listening to the tape and missed a lot of answers, this jolted me up and made me realize that the exam was not going to be as simple as I thought.

 Overall

To cap it all up, I’ll advice anyone preparing for the test to first if all identify a pattern that suits them, work well on perfecting it and do lots of practice questions. It also helps to simulate exam conditions as this goes a long way in calming the nerves on the day of exam. The most important advice though is to listen to Liz 100%. I listened to get 85% and got an overall score of 8, I wonder what would have happened if I had listened to her 100%.

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PS: you might be wondering how someone who hates writing was able to write all the above, well, it’s because I want to show appreciation to a wonderful teacher.

Message to Jubril: Thank you so much for sharing your tips and experience of the IELTS test. Very well done with your results 🙂 From Liz
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Filed Under: Tips from Successful IELTS Candidates Tagged With:

Model Answers for Speaking Part 3: Topic of Toys

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The topic of Toys is currently being used in IELTS speaking part 2 (a childhood toys) and part 3 this month. Below you will find some model answers for this topic for speaking part 3 questions. These model answers will provide you with ideas and vocabulary to use in your answers. You should never memorise my model answers. All your answers must be created by yourself in the IELTS test.

On this page you can find:

  • A) Questions with Model Answers
  • B) Useful Vocabulary with Pronunciation Audio
  • C) Tips for Speaking Part 3

Questions & Model Answers: Toys

What should be considered when buying toys for children?

I reckon one important thing to think about is the age of the child. If a child is only a couple of years old, you shouldn’t give them toys which contain small parts that could be swallowed and cause the child to choke. Another thing to consider is whether the toy will continue to entertain the child for a certain period of time. What I mean is, if the toy will only interest a child for 5 minutes, it isn’t really worth buying. It’s better to choose something that they will enjoy for months or years.

How have toys changed compared to the past?

I guess the main change is in electronic toys or battery operated toys. In the past, people used to only give simple toys to their children that were often handmade. Nowadays, people prefer mass produced toys that are the recent trend. Those types of toys are often exciting electronic toys, such as computer games. Another difference is that toys decades ago were often so simple that children had to use their imagination and creativity to find enjoyment in using them. I think today’s toys stimulate less creativity in children on the whole.

Why do parents buy a lot of toys for their children?

I guess some parents are materialistic. They think that if they buy many toys for their kids, they are being a good parent. Another reason is that children have short attention spans which means that some parents buy toys to keep their child quiet and out of their way. But I think the main reason is probably the power of advertising and peer pressure which drive children to want more toys and pushes parents to buy them.

Is it good for children to play with toys?

Yes, I think so. Some toys that can be bought are educational and are very important for early learning. Educational toys provide a great way for children to develop skills, such as spatial awareness, motor skills and hand-eye coordination. Furthermore, toys can give children a safe way to explore the world and learn about colours, shapes and textures. However, I must admit that some toys for older children, such as computer games, can become addictive and, at that point, those types of toys are not beneficial.

 

Useful Vocabulary & Pronunciation

Learn useful words for the topic of toys and listen to the audio to learn the correct pronunciation.

  • creativity
  • imagination
  • motor skills
  • social skills
  • spatial awareness
  • choke on small parts
  • battery operated toys
  • recharging batteries
  • computer games
  • wooden toys
  • dolls
  • rules of the game
  • hand-made toys / mass produced toys
  • materialism
  • consumerism
  • to keep someone quiet
  • to keep someone entertained
  • to keep someone out of the way
  • board games, chess
  • educational toys
  • become addictive

Learn more about the topic of toys. See this website about educational toys for children: childdevelopmentinfo.com

IELTS Speaking Part 3 Tips

Length of answer

Keep talking until the examiner interrupts you. The examiner will decide if it is time to change the focus of the answer or to ask a new question completely. Speaking part 3 answers are longer than in part 1.

Content

Explain your ideas and view point. Give examples. You are not marked on your examples or ideas, but you need to show the ability to tackle complex ideas using English.

Avoid talking about yourself

Part 1 and part 2 are about you. However, part 3 questions are mostly about world issues. You need to show the examiner you can talk about more than yourself. You need to show the ability to talk about people and the world in general.

Challenging ideas

The examiner might challenge your ideas. This is a way for the examiner to test your English and check that you are able to defend your view point.

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Filed Under: IELTS Speaking

March 2018 IELTS Writing Task 2 Model Essay

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Below is a model IELTS writing task 2 answer for an essay question reported in the IELTS test this month. The question was reported in the test on March 3rd.

You will also find on this page:

  • a link to learn plastic bag facts
  • useful vocabulary for this topic

IELTS Essay Question March 2018

In many countries plastic shopping bags  are the main source of rubbish, causing pollution on land and in the water, so people think they should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Model Essay March 2018

Some people think that plastic shopping bags should be prohibited because they are one of the major pollutants of both land and water around the world. I completely agree, but I think there are other measures that can be taken before putting a complete ban in place.

The reason that plastic bags should be banned in the near future is because they do not biodegrade and continue to pollute the environment for hundreds of years after being discarded. Plastic bags are often used only once, and end up clogging the land and polluting the water, causing about 100,000 marine animal deaths each year. Even when plastic does start to break down, it fragments into micro plastic which causes even more damage to all life on Earth. The only way to prevent throw-away plastic, such as plastic shopping bags, from seriously and irreversibly damaging our planet is to prohibit it.

However, it is best to try to change consumer behaviour before completely banning plastic bags. Plastic bags are not a vitally, necessary plastic product, only a convenience and customers should learn to replace them by using bags from home. Another step to deterring people from using so many plastic bags is by putting a high price on them  which will encourage people to reuse them.  Finally, having recycle bins by which customers can get cash back for depositing used plastic bags will also help. By altering consumer behaviour, it is a good way of raising awareness of plastic pollution as a whole and this can lead to more action on other unnecessary plastic products in the future.

In conclusion, an eventual total ban on plastic bags is crucial to preserve life on this planet and protect it from the effects of throw away non-biodegradable products.

Word count – 295

Plastic Bag Facts

Learn 7 amazing facts about plastic bags on this page: Plastic Bag Facts

Useful language List

  • ban / prohibit
  • discard
  • biodegradable / non-biodegradable
  • fragment
  • micro plastic
  • throw away products
  • marine life / marine animal
  • irreversibly damage
  • pollutant
  • consumer behaviour
  • deter
  • recycle bins
  • cash back
  • preserve life

It is also possible to agree with one side only. See other essays posted by students for this essay question – Other Student Essays

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Filed Under: IELTS Writing Task 2
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