Writing Task 2: Discussion and Problem-Solution Essays Flashcards
7 cards from real IELTS practice questions. Tap to flip, then mark Knew It or Still Learning — missed cards come back until you master them.
Read the first 7 Writing Task 2: Discussion and Problem-Solution Essays flashcards as text
A Task 2 essay on climate change repeatedly uses the word 'problem' (8 times). What is the main issue?
Answer: Lexical repetition reduces the Lexical Resource score; synonyms such as 'issue', 'challenge', 'crisis', and 'concern' should be used
Lexical Resource rewards range; repeating the same word throughout the essay signals a limited vocabulary and directly reduces the score.
Which sentence correctly uses a relative clause to develop an argument?
Answer: Governments, which are responsible for public welfare, must invest in healthcare infrastructure.
'Which' is correct for non-defining relative clauses about things/institutions; commas show it is non-defining, adding extra information about governments.
A problem-solution essay uses the phrase 'If governments were to introduce free public transport, carbon emissions could fall significantly.' This is an example of:
Answer: A second conditional used to propose a hypothetical solution
Second conditional ('If + past simple, would/could/might + base verb') presents a hypothetical proposal — appropriate for suggesting possible solutions.
Why is it a mistake to use bullet points or numbered lists in an IELTS Task 2 essay?
Answer: IELTS Task 2 requires continuous prose; lists do not demonstrate grammatical range or coherent argument development
Task 2 is an academic essay; examinees must write in continuous paragraphs to demonstrate grammar, cohesion, and argument development.
Which phrase best introduces a second supporting point in a body paragraph?
Answer: Furthermore, regular physical exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of chronic disease.
'Furthermore' is an additive linker that correctly introduces an additional supporting point within the same line of argument.
A student paraphrases the prompt and then ends the introduction with: 'This essay will be discussed below.' What should replace this?
Answer: A clear thesis statement indicating the essay's position or approach
An introduction requires a thesis — a statement of position or approach — not a vague circular statement like 'this essay will be discussed below'.
Which sentence correctly uses 'despite' to show a concession?
Answer: Despite the high cost of renewable energy, it remains the most sustainable long-term solution.
'Despite' is a preposition followed by a noun phrase ('the high cost'), not a conjunction; 'despite of' and 'despite that' are common non-standard errors.