IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essays Questions and Answers

Question 1

In an IELTS Writing Task 2 opinion essay, which of the following is the most crucial function of the introduction paragraph?

Accepted Answer

To paraphrase the question and clearly state the author's opinion (thesis statement).

Answer

To provide detailed examples that will be discussed later.

Answer

To present a counter-argument and immediately refute it.

Answer

To define key terms from the essay prompt to demonstrate vocabulary.

Question 2

A student is writing an essay on the topic: 'A big salary is much more important than job satisfaction. To what extent do you agree or disagree?' The student writes the following thesis statement: 'While a high income is an attractive component of a career, this essay will argue that job satisfaction is ultimately more critical for a person's well-being.' Which essay structure does this thesis statement suggest?

Accepted Answer

A balanced essay that will discuss both the importance of salary and job satisfaction before concluding.

Answer

A one-sided essay focusing only on the benefits of job satisfaction.

Answer

An essay that will primarily discuss salary and only briefly mention job satisfaction in the conclusion.

Answer

An essay that agrees completely that a big salary is more important.

Question 3

When developing a body paragraph for an opinion essay, which of the following is the most effective structure to follow?

Accepted Answer

Main idea (topic sentence), followed by an explanation and a supporting example.

Answer

Example, followed by an explanation, and then the main idea.

Answer

A series of four or five different examples related to the topic.

Answer

A general statement, followed by a personal story, and then a concluding thought.

Question 4

Which of the following is a common mistake that can lower a candidate's score in the conclusion of an IELTS opinion essay?

Accepted Answer

Introducing a new idea or argument not previously discussed.

Answer

Summarizing the main points that were discussed in the body paragraphs.

Answer

Paraphrasing the thesis statement from the introduction.

Answer

Ending with a final thought or prediction related to the topic.

Question 5

An essay question asks: 'Some people believe that the government should provide free university education for all citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree?' Which of the following sentences best demonstrates the skill of paraphrasing the question for the introduction?

Accepted Answer

It is argued that higher education should be funded entirely by the state, a viewpoint with which this essay will concur.

Answer

Some individuals think that governments must give free university education to every citizen.

Answer

This essay is about free university education and whether the government should provide it for all citizens.

Answer

In my opinion, the government definitely should provide free university education for everyone.

Question 6

In an opinion essay where you partially agree, what is the primary function of the body paragraphs?

Accepted Answer

To dedicate one paragraph to the arguments you agree with, and another paragraph to the arguments you disagree with.

Answer

To present two strong arguments for one side of the issue and ignore the other.

Answer

To mix arguments for and against the topic within each body paragraph.

Answer

To use both body paragraphs to explain why the opposing view is completely incorrect.