About this IELTS Writing Template
Memorising complete essays is a poor strategy for the IELTS exam. Instead, learning the underlying framework of a high-scoring response allows you to adapt to any prompt. This Opinion Essay template for Task 2 demonstrates exactly how to structure your ideas, connect your paragraphs logically, and deploy appropriate vocabulary to achieve a Band 7.0–7.5. Use the paragraph-by-paragraph plan below as a skeleton for your next practice draft.
Paragraph-by-Paragraph Plan
Detailed sentence formulas
Introduction
- Background Statement: Begin by introducing the topic in a general context. For example, "In recent years, the debate over [Topic] has intensified, with many arguing its potential benefits."
- Thesis Statement: Clearly state your opinion. "While some individuals oppose this notion, I firmly believe that [Your Opinion] due to [Reason A] and [Reason B]."
- Outline Sentence: Briefly outline what the essay will cover. "This essay will discuss how [Reason A] and [Reason B] contribute to [Your Opinion]."
Body Paragraph 1
- Topic Sentence: Introduce the first reason supporting your opinion. "The primary reason why I advocate for this view is [Reason A]."
- Explanation: Elaborate on why this reason is significant. "This is because [Explanation], which leads to [Effect]."
- Example: Provide a specific example to illustrate your point. "For instance, [Example], which demonstrates [Effect]."
- Linking Sentence: Conclude the paragraph by linking back to the thesis. "Thus, it is clear that [Reason A] significantly supports [Your Opinion]."
Body Paragraph 2
- Topic Sentence: Introduce the second reason. "Furthermore, [Reason B] plays a crucial role in supporting my viewpoint."
- Condition and Result: Use a conditional sentence to show cause and effect. "When [Condition], it results in [Outcome]."
- Example: Provide a detailed example. "A pertinent example is [Example], which highlights [Outcome]."
- Linking Sentence: Reinforce the connection to your thesis. "Consequently, it is evident that [Reason B] further substantiates my stance."
Conclusion
- Restate Opinion: Summarize your opinion and main points. "To conclude, despite some minor drawbacks, I maintain that [Opinion] because [Summary of points]."
- Recommendation or Prediction: Offer a recommendation or prediction. "It is recommended that [Advice], which could lead to [Potential Outcome]."
Full Sample Response
Written by an expert IELTS examiner
It is often argued that requiring school children to wear uniforms is a positive rule. While some people disagree and prefer freedom of choice, I am convinced that uniforms are beneficial due to the promotion of equality and the reduction of financial stress on parents.
The foremost reason supporting my viewpoint is that uniforms create a sense of equality among students. This is because wearing the same clothes removes visible signs of wealth or poverty. An illustrative example of this is seen in public schools where students from diverse economic backgrounds learn together. When everyone is dressed identically, children are less likely to judge or bully others based on fashion, which underscores a healthier social environment.
Moreover, reducing financial stress on families plays a crucial role. When parents are compelled to constantly buy the latest trends to keep their children content, it results in significant financial burden. By contrast, uniforms are generally durable and affordable. As a result, it becomes apparent that standardizing school attire allows parents to save money for more important educational tools.
In summary, notwithstanding minor objections regarding self-expression, I maintain that school uniforms are highly advantageous because they level the social playing field and save money. It is advisable that all schools adopt a comfortable, affordable uniform policy.
Examiner Commentary
Why this response scores highly
The sample essay effectively achieves its target band of 7.0-7.5 across all four assessment criteria.
Task Response: The essay provides a clear and well-developed response to the task. The writer's position is consistently clear, and the arguments are relevant and supported by specific examples. The essay addresses all parts of the task, demonstrating a thorough understanding of the topic.
Coherence & Cohesion: The essay is logically organized with clear paragraphing. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and ideas are linked smoothly using appropriate cohesive devices. The use of linking words such as 'Moreover' and 'As a result' enhances the flow of the essay.
Lexical Resource: The writer demonstrates a sufficient range of vocabulary to discuss the topic effectively. There is a good use of topic-specific vocabulary, and the writer avoids repetition by using synonyms and varied expressions. The vocabulary is appropriate for the task and contributes to the clarity of the argument.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of sentence structures, including complex and compound sentences. Grammatical errors are minimal and do not impede communication. The writer effectively uses conditional sentences and maintains consistent verb tenses, contributing to a higher score in this criterion.
Related Templates
Opinion Essay
A straightforward, easy-to-remember structure that ensures you answer the prompt clearly without overcomplicating the grammar.
Opinion Essay
A sophisticated analytical structure that concedes a minor counter-point before decisively proving your main argument with high-level vocabulary.
Discussion Essay
A balanced structure that clearly states both sides of an argument before offering a final, simple opinion.