8. IELTS Task 2 : "Introduction background statement"

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OK so today guys we are going to check out how to write the introduction sentence 1 of our task 2. This is a very, very important sentence because it is going to set the whole tone of our beautiful IELTS task 2. Today let’s keep it pretty easy and just focus on how to do the Task 2 S1 that will get a band-score 6.5 or so. We can pimp it up to a 7.5 in the next podcast or at a later date.

So basically this introduction S1 has only one goal, which, like a task 1 S1, is to restate the question. So firstly, let’s take a look at a fairly typical Task 2 question. This one is from Cambridge IELTS 14, Test 1.

(1) Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. (2) Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.

(3) Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This is a combination discussion/opinion style task 2 because of the language presented in the instruction (3). We will use the language given in the topic and issue sentences (1 and 2) to construct our introduction S1. First, let’s look for some synonyms. Four or five would be a perfect number to concentrate on...

Some people = MANY PEOPLE

Accept = BELIEVE

Bad = DIFFICULT

Unsatisfactory = DISAPPOINTING

Shortage = LACK

Improve = MAKE BETTER

OK, let’s try to use these syonyms to write our S1. If possible, we can also add some informationand rearrange some of the grammar. Here we go!

These days, many people are of the belief that rather than accept a difficult situation like a disappointing job or a lack of finances, it might be better to try and make such a situation better.

Good job! This is a beautiful IELTS task 2 S1. Let’s dive in deeper and see exactly how it was done:

1. Firstly a number of synonyms were used.

2. Secondly, some information was added like the time phrase “these days”, extra words like “are of the belief”, and a modal like “might be better”.

3. Finally, the grammar was rearranged by putting the adverb “rather” in the first line.

Try writing your IELTS task 2 introduction S1 like this, and you will never go wrong!!