Task 2 is the second and longer task in the writing test. It differs from task 1 in that you are asked to present an argument for or against a point of view, so there is more scope to express your own ideas or opinions. However, you should be careful to present your views clearly and in the form of a logical discussion. Do not be emotional. Everything that has been said about the importance of analysing the task, selecting material and organising your writing applies equally to task 2 and there are some extra points.
For task 2 it is very important to go through the first process (analysing the task) very carefully. Very often the question is not easy to see. Looking at the titles 6-8 below, you will see that in each case the title consists of two statements. Often one of the statements is factual and the other is subjective - a matter of opinion. It is the subjective statement that is the actual question. Look at the titles 6-8 below and decide whether they contain factual or subjective statements and what the topic and question is:
6. Write an essay for a university lecturer, arguing either for or against the following statement: Modern high-technology is transforming the way we work and is of benefit to all of society.
7. Write an essay for a university lecturer on the following topic: Higher mammals such as monkeys have rights and should not be used in laboratory experiments.
8. Write an essay for an educated non-specialist on the following topic: More and more young people are studying and working overseas and this will help to bring about greater international co-operation in the future.
It is particularly important in writing task 2 to display clear thinking and organisation. You should go through the same processes as for task 1 , taking notes and organising your writing but in addition you should:
As well as writing a clear, relevant answer it is important that your English is accurate. You should ensure that you write in an appropriate style, and that your grammar and spelling are correct.
Style: In task 1 you have to give a fairly technical description. In task 2 you must write an essay or argument for a university lecturer, or an essay for a non-specialist reader. For both tasks you must use formal academic English. Write formally even when stating your own ideas; make use of the passive for descriptions and use full forms not contractions ('they are', not 'they're').
Grammar and spelling: You must remember to use appropriate tenses and ensure that your subjects and verbs agree. Check the use of prepositions and articles, that you have the correct form for adjectives and adverbs, and of course, your spelling. Even if you do not notice your errors while you are writing, you will have a chance to correct them during the final process. Make sure you allow yourself time to do this (three to five minutes for task 1 and at least five minutes for task 2). Make sure too that you have used the correct number of words.
Summary
What you need to know What you need to do--
1. Analyse the task--
4. WriteRemember:
We can summarise the main processes as follows: plan it, write it, check it. Of these, perhaps the most important is the planning process so make sure you analyse the task properly and spend some time making notes.
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