Key 2025 Updates for IELTS Writing Task 2
1. Format & Task Types:
Structure Remains — Topics Evolve
·
The fundamental format remains
unchanged: Task 2 still requires a 250-word formal essay within approximately
40 minutes, whether Academic or General Training.
·
However, there’s a noticeable rise
in blended question types—such as "discuss
both views + give your opinion" or combinations of
pros/cons and your stance.
·
Topic-wise, current global
concerns dominate:
o AI and technology (e.g., AI in education or in the workplace),
o Environment and sustainability,
o Health and social issues,
o Globalization and work patterns (like four-day workweeks).
2. Prompt
Wording: Clearer, More Direct
·
Prompts now tend to use simpler and more straightforward language. For
example, questions previously phrased as "To what extent do you agree or
disagree?" may now read, “Do you agree or disagree with this view?”
·
Instructions are more
specific—helping reduce ambiguity.
3. Scoring
Emphasis: Depth, Clarity & Natural Expression
·
Idea Development: Full,
well-supported ideas are crucial. Vague or underdeveloped points may no longer
reach Band 7+ standards. studywithbrsir.blogspot.com
·
Natural Vocabulary: Preference
is now on precise, context-appropriate words. Overuse of complex or memorized
phrases can detract from your score. studywithbrsir.blogspot.comBlissway
·
Cohesion & Grammar: Examiners
value variety in sentence structures, logical organization, and clarity over
generic templates.
4. Real-World
Relevance: Modern & Practical Themes
·
Essays may be rooted in real-life
contexts, reflecting societal, technological, and environmental challenges—such
as the role of AI or sustainability efforts.
·
Integrated tasks are becoming more
common, especially in Academic settings, e.g., summarizing visual data plus
written analysis. 5.
Writing Instruments & Legibility (Paper-Based Exams)
·
Important: As of
February 22, 2025, many centers (especially under British Council) now enforce
a strict black ballpoint pen-only policy for all sections,
including Writing. Pencils and other ink colors are prohibited. This shift aims for better legibility and
uniformity. Candidates are advised to practice with black pens accordingly
Summary Table: What’s changing for Task 2 in 2025
|
Aspect |
Academic / GT Task 2 (2025) |
|
Essay Type |
Same format: 250 words, ~40 mins;
some blended-style prompts. |
|
Topics |
Focus on AI, environment, health,
sustainability, social changes. |
|
Prompt Wording |
More direct and specific (“Do you
agree?” vs. “To what extent?”). |
|
Assessment Criteria |
Emphasis on idea depth, clarity,
cohesion, and natural vocabulary. |
|
Templates |
Discouraged—natural, relevant
writing preferred. |
|
Paper-Based Writing Tool |
Black ballpoint pen required in many
centers. |
Preparation Tips for 2025
1.
Master Flexible Structures
o Be ready for blended essay formats (e.g., discuss both views and
your opinion).
o Make your stance clear and consistently supported throughout.
2.
Stay Updated with Themes & Vocabulary
o Practice on topics like AI in society,
climate change, and global
inequalities.
o Build a lexicon of relevant terms, avoiding over-complex
vocabulary.
3.
Practice with Realistic, Clear Prompts
o Use updated prompts that mirror the 2025 format and ask direct,
practical questions.
4.
Write Clearly & Naturally
o Avoid memorized intros/conclusions (“This essay will discuss...”).
o Prioritize natural linking words and varied yet accurate grammar
structures.
5.
Adapt to Pen-Only Policy
o If you're doing the paper-based test, practice using a black
ballpoint pen from now on.
6.
Use Updated Resources
o Stick to official materials (British Council, IDP), and platforms
like Cambridge’s “Write & Improve” for real-time feedback.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Essays for
Academic and GT
1. Opinion Essay (Agree or Disagree / To What
Extent)
- Purpose: Express
your opinion on a statement and justify it with examples.
- Question
Clues: “Do you agree or disagree?” / “To what
extent do you agree?”
- Structure:
1. Introduction →
Paraphrase statement + state opinion
2. Body Paragraph 1
→ Main reason + examples
3. Body Paragraph 2
→ Another reason + examples
4. Conclusion →
Summarize opinion
Example Topic:
“Some people think that students should study only academic subjects at school.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
2. Discussion Essay (Discuss Both Views +
Opinion)
- Purpose: Discuss two
contrasting views and give your own opinion.
- Question
Clues: “Discuss both views and give your
opinion.”
- Structure:
1. Introduction →
Paraphrase + mention both views
2. Body Paragraph 1
→ Explain view 1 + example
3. Body Paragraph 2
→ Explain view 2 + example
4. Body Paragraph 3
(optional) → State your opinion clearly
5. Conclusion →
Summarize discussion + your opinion
Example Topic:
“Some people believe that technology makes life easier, while others think it
makes life more complicated. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
3. Advantage and Disadvantage Essay
- Purpose: Explain the
benefits and drawbacks of a situation.
- Question
Clues: “Discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of …”
- Structure:
1. Introduction →
Paraphrase topic
2. Body Paragraph 1
→ Advantages + examples
3. Body Paragraph 2
→ Disadvantages + examples
4. Conclusion →
Summarize both sides + optional opinion
Example Topic:
“Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of working from home.”
4. Problem and Solution Essay
- Purpose: Identify
problems and suggest solutions.
- Question
Clues: “What problems are associated with …?
How can they be solved?”
- Structure:
1. Introduction →
Paraphrase topic
2. Body Paragraph 1
→ Describe problems + examples
3. Body Paragraph 2
→ Suggest solutions + examples
4. Conclusion →
Summarize problems and solutions
Example Topic:
“Many cities face traffic congestion. What are the main causes, and what
solutions can be implemented?”
5. Double Question / Direct Question Essay
- Purpose: Answer two
or more direct questions on a topic.
- Question
Clues: “Why do you think…?” / “What can be done
about …?”
- Structure:
1. Introduction →
Paraphrase topic
2. Body Paragraph 1
→ Answer first question + example
3. Body Paragraph 2
→ Answer second question + example
4. Conclusion →
Summarize answers
Example Topic:
“Why do people prefer online shopping? What problems can this cause, and how
can they be solved?”
Tips to Identify Essay Type Quickly
1. Look for keywords
like “agree/disagree” → Opinion Essay.
2. Words like “advantages
and disadvantages” → Advantage/Disadvantage Essay.
3. Words like “problems/solutions”
→ Problem-Solution Essay.
4. Words like “both
views → Discussion Essay.
5. Direct questions
→ Double Question Essay.
As
of 2025, IELTS Writing Task 2 continues to focus on contemporary global issues,
societal changes, and technological advancements. Familiarizing yourself with
these common topics can enhance your preparation and help you develop relevant
vocabulary and ideas. Here's a comprehensive overview:
1. Education
- Online vs.
Traditional Education: Debates on the effectiveness of online
learning compared to traditional classroom settings.
- Role of
Teachers: Discussions on the evolving role of
teachers in the digital age.
- Curriculum
Design: The balance between academic subjects
and life skills in school curricula.
- Access to
Education: The importance of providing free
education to all and the role of government funding.
2. Technology
- Impact on
Society: How technological advancements
influence social interactions and relationships.
- Artificial
Intelligence: The benefits and drawbacks of
integrating AI into daily life.
- Digital
Divide: Addressing the gap in technology access
between different socioeconomic groups.
- Privacy
Concerns: The implications of data collection and
surveillance on personal privacy.
3. Environment
- Climate
Change: The role of individuals and governments
in combating climate change.
- Sustainable
Practices: Encouraging sustainable living and
reducing carbon footprints.
- Biodiversity: The
importance of preserving biodiversity and natural habitats.
- Renewable
Energy: Transitioning to renewable energy
sources to reduce environmental impact.
4. Health
- Public
Health Policies: Government responsibility in promoting public
health and wellness.
- Mental
Health: Raising awareness and reducing stigma
around mental health issues.
- Lifestyle
Diseases: The rise of lifestyle-related diseases
and preventive measures.
- Healthcare
Access: Ensuring equitable access to healthcare
services for all populations.
5. Government and Society
- Government
Spending: Debates on the allocation of government
funds to various sectors like education, healthcare, and the arts.
- Social
Welfare: The role of governments in providing
social welfare programs.
- Urbanization: The
challenges and benefits of increasing urbanization and its impact on
society.
- Cultural
Integration: Managing cultural diversity and
promoting social cohesion in multicultural
6. Economics
- Globalization: The
effects of globalization on local economies and cultures.
- Economic
Inequality: Addressing the growing economic
disparities within and between countries.
- Consumer
Behavior: The influence of advertising and media
on consumer choices.
- Workplace
Trends: The shift towards remote work and its
implications for the economy.
7. Social Issues
- Youth
Behavior: The impact of social media and video
games on youth behavior and development.
- Family Dynamics: Changing
family structures and their effects on society.
- Crime and
Punishment: Debates on the effectiveness of
different criminal justice systems.
- Gender
Equality: Promoting gender equality and
addressing gender-based discrimination.
8. Science and Innovation
- Medical
Advancements: The ethical considerations of genetic
engineering and cloning.
- Space
Exploration: The benefits and risks associated with
space exploration.
- Technological
Innovations: The role of innovation in solving
global challenges.
- Scientific
Research: Funding and prioritizing scientific
research to address pressing issues.
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