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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.


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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

ESSAY WRITING
TYPE 1: OPINION ESSAY
CONSIDERATIONS:
It is an opinion essay if: !
a. The task rubric contains a statement and the writers task is to either agree or disagree.

Example: Disruptive school students have a negative influence on others. Students who
are noisy and disobedient should be grouped together and taught separately. Do you agree
or disagree?
b. The question contains a statement and the writers task is to
express his opinion.

Example: University education should be restricted to the very


best academic students rather than being available to a large
portion of young people. What is your opinion?

OUTLINE OF TYPE 1
Introduction

1. Restatement of the Essay Question


2. Writers Stand

2nd Paragraph

Concession

1. One idea of those who think


otherwise
2. Explanation

3rd Paragraph

Rebuttal

4th Paragraph

Second Argument

1st Paragraph

5th Paragraph

Conclusion

1. Why concession is unacceptable


2. Explanation
1. Another reason for the writers stand
2. Explanation
Restatement of the 1st Paragraph OR
Summary of the main points OR
Provide recommendations

Writers Stand:
(Agree) I definitely embrace the
same philosophy; Without a doubt, I
uphold the said notion; I fully
subscribe to this statement.
(Disagree) I personally think
otherwise; This is one thought I
would like to disagree with; My
views, on the other hand, are a
contradiction to this.

Concession:
It goes without saying that It is
true, of course, that There is no
getting around the fact that The
idea in question holds some water in
that It cannot be denied that
No one can deny the fact that In
part, it is correct to say that There
is a grain of truth in thinking that...
Rebuttal:
Conversely Nevertheless Yet
Contrarily A much sounder point
of view is that The problem with
the preceding view is that...
Second Argument:
Moreover In addition Another
sound reason is Another
substantial thought is that
Likewise Furthermore One
more important consideration is ...
Conclusion:
To conclude In conclusion In
summary To summarize
Overall To wrap up To sum up...

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

SAMPLES: OPINION ESSAY

Sample A:

Sample B:

Students are sent to school not only for academic


preparation but also for character building. To
prevent the stubborn students from influencing
their classmates, many propose that they be
grouped separately. This is one proposal I would
like to disagree with.

Because of too many students taking up college


degrees, some suggest that access to education be
given only to those who perform best in their
academic pursuits. This is one proposition I highly
disagree with.

In part, it is correct to say that the noise and the


unteachable character of students negatively
influence the learning of others. Since young
learners indiscriminately follow what they see from
peers, the negative attitude students have towards
their studies may lead others to behave similarly.
However, I feel that grouping these ill-mannered
students may just aggravate the situation. First
of all, it is likely that their influence and force
become stronger as they get to spend more time
with each other.
Instead of enabling them to
change by letting them appreciate the benefits of
behaving in class, teachers deprive them of this
chance by clustering them with their fellow noisy
students.
One more important consideration is that this
may rob children the chance of learning how to
cope with real life. In life, everybody needs to
know how to face adversaries that include bullying.
It is only when students mingle with others that
they learn how to stave off trouble and overcome
any form of distraction.
Overall, I feel that it would not be that good if
school authorities group disruptive students as this
will just worsen the situation and will never prepare
the students face the real world. What is more
urgent is for teachers and parents to coordinate
hand in hand to address the core of the problem.
Physically separating students based on their
behavior is just a mere act of scratching the surface.

It is true, of course, that college education is


expensive that is why most governments find it
difficult to fund schools to cater to all aspiring
students.
As such, state-funded schools have
limited slots to offer and, more often than not, the
priority is given to students with higher scholastic
records.
Yet, one concern that needs to be addressed if this
suggestion were to be applied is the fact that not
all brilliant students become successful in life.
The problem on budget may be squarely addressed if
only the few brilliant students are allowed to proceed
to college, but it is never a guarantee that all of these
great minds produce great works in the future.
In addition, college education deals with more
specialized and technical fields. If the number of
students allowed to take university degrees is
tapered, a host of tasks that call for specialist
knowledge may not be fulfilled. It is important to
produce regular supply of professionals so that the
needs of the modern world are constantly met. The
proposition, however, will certainly undermine the
demands of globalization.
To conclude, I do not agree that the opportunities to
go to universities and colleges be enjoyed only by
the few bright students. Every student stands a
chance to change. Another worthy of consideration
is that success in high school does not always equate
to productivity in real life.
(267 words)

(280 words)

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

TYPE 2: BALANCED-ARGUMENT ESSAY


CONSIDERATIONS:
It is a balanced-argument essay if:!
a. The task rubric contains two views or situations and the writers task is to discuss each and
to present his own views.

Example: Some people say that the poor only have themselves to blame.
otherwise. Discuss each statement. What is your own opinion?

Others think

b. The question contains a statement about an occurrence and the writers task is to identify
whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

Example: Interracial marriages are a common practice nowadays.


outweigh the disadvantages?

Do the advantages

1st View (Topic Sentence)

OUTLINE OF TYPE 2
1st Paragraph

2nd Paragraph

3rd Paragraph

4th Paragraph

Introduction

1st View

2nd View

Writers View

1. Restatement of Task Rubric


2. Writers choice (optional)
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Topic Sentence (Main View)


1st idea
Explanation
2nd Idea
Explanation

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Topic Sentence (Main View)


1st idea
Explanation
2nd Idea
Explanation

1. Writers Choice
2. Explanation

A number of people believe that A considerable


number of people subscribe to the idea that
Some people think that Many are convinced
that...

Expressions used in enumerating ideas:


(First) The first idea that springs to mind is
Primarily
The most obvious is
Predominantly
Most importantly
One
exceedingly important (benefit/reason) is that
(Second) Another equally important (benefit/
reason) is that No one can overlook the fact
that
Another (benefit/reason) that is worth
noting is that Another worthy of consideration
is that Palpably.
(Third/Final) Lastly Finally Similarly...

2nd View (Topic Sentence)


On the other hand, others think differently In
contrast, many believe that the reverse is true
On the contrary, a great deal of people uphold the
opposite view.

Writers View:
To my mind In my point of view Personally
As I see it I truly believe I am fully convinced
that...

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

SAMPLES: BALANCED-ARGUMENT ESSAY


Sample A:

Sample B:

The world never ceases to grapple with poverty


and, whenever this issue is tackled, the question
about who should be blamed often springs to mind.
Are the poor solely to be blamed or are there other
contributory factors that make it difficult for them
to improve their lives?

Marriage is universally celebrated with anticipation,


yet it is often cast with a glint of doubt if it involves
two persons with different colors and creeds.

A number of people blame the poor for their


plight because the poor seemingly aggravate
their own living conditions. Apparently, they are
those who disregard family planning. Another
reason is their somewhat defeatist attitude. Even if
they have been wallowing in abject poverty all their
lives, they tend to carry this misfortune with total
resignation for the years to come.
Nevertheless, others point their fingers to the
government for its utter neglect.
To them,
poverty continues to worsen because the state is
remiss in its responsibility of giving the poor better
access to education and humane job conditions. The
current system makes it impossible for the poor to
upgrade their lives. Wherever they turn to, the poor
cannot look for decent jobs because they do not
have the qualifications they can only apparently
achieve if they were not poor.
One obvious
example of this is a completed college degree.
To my mind, both the poor and the society have
to be faulted. In the Philippines, for example, most
poor Filipinos do nothing to better their conditions.
Conversely, the society is also responsible because
not enough laws are made to help the hapless
people uplift their status in life. Truly, poverty is an
age-old problem but much can be done if only most
people realize that it is not the poor who are solely
to be blamed for their predicament.

When people from different cultures tie the knot, a


number of positive things happen. Firstly, this
marriage can offer a brighter future to either, if not
both, of the marrying partners. Interracial marriages
generally take place between people from rich
countries and those that grow up in poor countries.
This marital partnership can then open better
opportunities to those who have been living in
destitution all their lives. Secondly, the sharing of
cultures between partners will benefit both parties
concerned. Every dealing is an eye-opener and their
respective horizons are definitely broadened in this
bond.
Nevertheless, a number of setbacks are also
present whenever two totally different persons live
under one roof.
Misunderstanding is bound to
happen whenever their beliefs clash and this might
lead to serious fights between the couple. Another
problem would be the growing confusion on the part
of the children who will live with people who are not
totally like them. In time, they will realize their
differences from each of their respective parents and
this might alienate them from the rest of the people in
their community.
In my point of view, interracial marriages are so
common these days that their effects, whether
positive or negative, cannot be overemphasized
anymore. A number of happy-ending stories are told
about this set-up and there are also a considerable
number that end in tragedy. I believe what matters the
most is that the said marriage is entered into because
both parties are willing to defy the odds just to make
their marriage work.
(284 words)

(278 words)

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

10

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

TYPE 3: ENUMERATIVE ESSAY


CONSIDERATIONS:
It is an enumerative essay if: !
The task rubric talks about a phenomenon and the writers task is to present:
a.
b.
c.
d.

Some of the problems and solutions associated with the given phenomenon.
Some of the causes and effects borne from the mentioned phenomenon.
Some of the phenomenons advantages and disadvantages.
Any two or three independent questions

Examples:
a. Many young children are becoming obese nowadays. Cite the causes and the effects.
b. Many people believe that the high levels of violence in films today are causing serious social

problems. What are these problems and how could they be reduced?

OUTLINE OF TYPE 3
1st Paragraph

2nd Paragraph

3rd Paragraph

4th Paragraph

Introduction

1. Restatement of the Essay


Question
2. Rephrase of Tasks

Discussion of
the 1st Task

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Topic Sentence (Main View)


1st idea
Explanation
2nd Idea
Explanation

Discussion of
the 2nd Task

1.
2.
3.
4.
5.

Topic Sentence (Main View)


1st idea
Explanation
2nd Idea
Explanation

Conclusion

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

Restatement of the 1st


Paragraph OR
Discussion on how feasible
the solutions are OR
Discussion on the challenges

Expressions used in enumerating


ideas:
Topic Sentences:
A number of (bad things/good things)
can be derived from The
( o c c u r r e n c e ) i s b e n e fi c i a l /
disadvantageous
(First) The first (ADVANTAGE/
DISADVANTAGE) that springs to
mind is Primarily The most
obvious is Predominantly Most
importantly
One exceedingly
important (benefit/reason) is that
(Second) Another equally important
(benefit/reason) is that No one can
overlook the fact that
Another
(benefit/reason) that is worth noting is
that
Another worthy of
consideration is that Palpably.
(Third/Final) Lastly
Similarly...

Finally

11

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

SAMPLE: ENUMERATIVE ESSAY


Sample A.

Sample B.

Children nowadays face a number of problems which


before were mostly restricted to adults and one of
these is obesity. What causes obesity among kids and
what happens if this problem is not mitigated? These
are the questions I will discuss in this essay.

The increasing amount of violence that is shown


regularly in films has been a cause of concern for some
time. Such films make violence appear entertaining,
exciting and even something to be copied. However, it
seems to be increasingly clear that this development is
causing problems in our society.

There are a host of factors why an increasing


number of children go beyond their ideal body
weight nowadays.
For one, the rigorous work
schedule of the parents leaves some kids
unsupervised. As a result, children eat whatever they
want and they miss out on important physical
activities since their parents are most of the time not
at home to guide them. The mass media is also partly
to blame for encouraging the public to choose
processed goods in the name of convenience and
commerce. Instead of guiding the viewers to eat
healthily, TV programs seem to be one in promoting
products that are laden with unhealthy preservatives
and additives.
If not acted upon, child obesity will lead to serious
negative effects. Death and sickness rates among
children will alarmingly rise since diabetes and
cardiovascular diseases will manifest early.
Inevitably, their studies will suffer as well as their
dealings with other children. Hence, their self-esteem
lowers and they shall fail to enjoy the kind of life that
they are supposed to liveone that is stress-free and
unrestrained.
Everything children experience takes root at home. It
is therefore the primary responsibility of parents to
supervise their kids to obtain proper nutrition and
good health. If parents assume this responsibility
seriously, many young children will definitely be
spared from the debilitating effects notoriously
associated with obesity.
(271 words)

If not controlled, the rise in violence in films can


lead to a number of detrimental effects. First of all,
those who enjoy such films eventually stop associating
the violence with any real consequences.
They
therefore lose their sense of reality and no longer take
violence seriously or have any sympathy with the
victims. This is bad for both individuals and for our
whole society. Another worrying trend is that in these
films the heroes are shown as people to be admired,
even though they are very violent characters. This
leads impressionable people to believe that they can
gain respect and admiration by copying this aggressive
behavior, and so the levels of violence increase,
especially in major cities throughout the world.
What is needed to combat these problems is definite
action. The government should regulate the film
industry on the one hand, and provide better education
on the other. Producers must be prevented from
showing meaningless violence as fun in their films.
Instead, films could emphasize the tragic
consequences of violent acts and this would educate
people, especially young people, to realize that
violence is real.
To conclude, I think that viewing violence as
entertainment may indeed cause serious social
problems and that the only way to improve this
situation is by regulating the industry and educating
the public about the real human suffering that such
violence brings.
(277 words)

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

12

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Review: What is the most suitable essay type to answer the following questions?
________ 1. The cost of air flights has reduced sharply nowadays. Do you think this is a
positive or a negative development? Give your reasons.
________ 2. Advertisements of toys and fast foods are harmful to kids. Do you agree or
disagree?
________ 3. Consumer goods become cheaper now.
situation outweigh the disadvantages?

Do you think advantages of this

________ 4. There are many products, but only some of them meet the peoples needs.
Even without advertising, these products will sell well. What is your opinion?
________ 5. Young people are spending too much time watching TV. What do you think of
this and how do you think this problem could be solved?
________ 6. Children are experiencing social, educational, and commercial pressure.
What are the causes to this pressure? What measures can be taken to reduce
this pressure?
________ 7. Many people keep dogs and cats as companions. Discuss the advantages
and disadvantages of pet ownership for the animals involved and for the
community as a whole
________ 8. Some people think that music has a significant role in the society. Others think
that it is just a form of entertainment. Comment on both views. Give your
own opinion.
________ 9. Some people say that teaching our children about international affairs in
schools is a waste of time. Do you agree or disagree?
________ 10. Some people find visiting museums boring as a form of entertainment, while
others believe that the role of museums is to educate people, not entertain.
Discuss. What is your opinion?
________ 11. Home cooking tends to be a disappearing skill in some countries. How is it in
your country? Do you think all children should be taught about home
cooking?
________ 12. In todays world, career is the only vital thing in a persons life. What is your
opinion?

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

13

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Task 1 Writing (Academic)


A. Graphs and Charts
Considerations:
For Task 1, writers are asked to describe a graph (line, bar), a chart (pie, tabular), or a
combination of both. Often, a three-paragraph outline would suffice:
Introduction:

OUTLINE FOR GRAPHS/CHARTS

1st Paragraph

2nd Paragraph

3rd Paragraph

Introduction

Restatement of the Task


Rubric

Details

Significant details:
Describe trends
Highlight ranks and
changes
Compare and contrast

Conclusion

Overall trend:
Highlight relationships
among variables
Highlight the most striking
feature

The (figure) delineates,


compares, describes,
pictures, portrays, reveals,
exhibits, renders, displays,
outlines, shows, presents

Body:
specifically, as
delineated, in particular,
in addition, in the case
of, meanwhile,
furthermore, moreover,
also...
finally, lastly

Conclusion:
overall, clearly, all in all, on

REMEMBER:

the whole, by and large, in


general, in conclusion, in
summary, to conclude, to
summarize, to sum up

Construct sentences using the appropriate verb forms: use the


past tense if the figures highlight past information, use the present tense if the figure
shows general information, and the future tense if the figure shows forecasts.
Avoid giving unnecessary speculations by using words like maybe, because, perhaps.

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

14

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Sample 1: Linear Graph


The graph below shows in percentage terms the changing patterns of domestic access to modern
technology in homes in the UK.

Paragraph 1. What is the study all about?

The linear graph compares in percentage the changes to access to technological advancements in the
homes in the UK from 1996 to 2002.
Paragraph 2: What are the relevant specific ideas?

First of all, it appears that the CD player was the most popular technology with ownership ranging
from about 60% in 1996 to approximately 82% of the homes in the UK. Although in a much lower
scale, home computers had a nearly parallel growth with the CD player, unlike the mobile phones
which had an ownership rate that tripled in a course of six years (18% to 70%). Lastly, the newest
technology introduced was the Internet. From 10% in 1998, about 43% of the households used it in
2002.
Paragraph 3: What are the relevant general ideas?

Overall, the graph illustrates that an increasing number of households in the UK had owned the popular
technologies listed above. Of all the four, however, the Internet shows the greatest degree of penetration
considering that it was only introduced four years before the end of the study.
159 words

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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Sample 2: Bar Graph


The graph below shows the contribution of three sectorsagriculture, manufacturing,
and business and financial servicesto the UK economy in the twentieth century.

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12!,.#$#34!'$!%0,!%5,$%',%0!.,$%)&4!

The bar graph compares the contribution of agriculture, manufacturing, and business and financial services
sectors to the economy of the UK from 1900 to 2000.
In the first half of the century, the economy of the UK depended mostly on agriculture, which shared nearly
50% and 55% of the countrys resources in 1900 and 1950, respectively. However, this trend changed in the
second half of the previous millennium when it only contributed 10% and almost insignificantly (2%) in 1975
and 2000, respectively. On the other hand, while the manufacturing sector had been contributing less
gradually to the UK economy over the course of the century, the business and financial sectors had been
gaining ground in a similar steady fashion from 1950 to 1975. The latters share to the economy, however,
increased quite dramatically in 2000 to about 40%.
The graph clearly shows that the UK economy had been depending less and less on agriculture and
manufacturing over a course of 100 years and that in 2000 its economy was primarily run by the business and
financial sectors. It is also worth mentioning that at the end of the 20th century, the economy of the UK no
longer depended only on the three highlighted sectors as their total contribution no longer reached 100%.
212 words

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

16

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Sample 3: Composite charts


The table below shows how young people in Tokyo, Japan listened to music over the previous
month. The pie chart shows a record companys international findings about whether people
preferred live or recorded music.
Live music

mp3 players

Internet

CDs

Male

60%

79%

55%

19%

Female

44%

40%

42%

22%

Tip:
Use the following expressions
when:

Preference

Composite figures.
A combination of a graph and chart
is given.
Composite charts.
If a combination of a pie chart and
a tabular chart is given.
Composite graphs.
If a combination of a bar graph and
a linear graph is given.

The composite charts compare the preference of Japanese men and women regarding how they listened to songs
and whether they preferred live or recorded music.
Of those surveyed, more than three-quarters of men in Tokyo, Japan listened to songs through their MP3 players
whereas a considerable number of women (44%) had their dose of songs by listening to live performances. Only
19% of Japanese men were reported to listen to songs via CDs, while 22% of the women respondents did this. This
was evidently the only instance wherein women outnumbered men. As a whole, generally more men resorted to all
four ways of listening to music, as delineated in the charts, than women with wider margins in listening to live
music and in using MP3 players. Resorting to the Internet was considerably common among 55% of the men, yet
was popular to only 42% of women.
Meanwhile, the pie chart shows that majority of young Japanese (70%) preferred to listen to live songs, while
more than a quarter of them chose to listen to recorded song (26%).
In summary, the charts show the sizable popularity of live music among young Japanese people and that a
considerable bulk preferred listening to their favorite recorded music through their MP3 players and the Internet.
211 words

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

B. Diagrams
Considerations:
Reporting diagrams is still descriptive in nature only that here the writer highlights the logical
order of events than the changes. For this, a three-paragraph report will still suffice:

OUTLINE FOR DIAGRAM REPORTS


1st Paragraph

Introduction

Restatement of the Task Rubric

2nd Paragraph

Details

Describe the process in logical


order:
highlight what is first, next and
last
highlight simultaneous events

3rd Paragraph

Conclusion

Overall trend:
Present a general description
on how the process operates

Expressions to use:

Body:
Introduction:
The (figure) delineates,
compares, describes,
pictures, portrays, reveals,
exhibits, renders,
displays, outlines, shows,
presents

first, first of all

Conclusion:

after, afterward, as, at the same time,


before, later, immediately, in the meantime,
meanwhile, next, shortly, then, this time,
simultaneously, subsequently

overall, clearly, all in all, on


the whole, by and large, in
general, in conclusion, in
summary, to conclude, to
summarize, to sum up

finally, lastly, ultimately, in the final phase

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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Sample 4: Process Diagram (Flowchart)


You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
The diagram below shows a companys recruitment process.
Write a report for a university lecturer.
You should write at least 150 words.
The diagram illustrates a companys
application and recruitment process.
List of requirements
is drawn up

Firstly, the people responsible for the


vacancy draw up a list of job requirements
and these requirements are included in an
advertisement, which is placed in a
newspaper.

Advertisement is placed in
the newspaper

The applicant expresses interest in the job


by asking for an application form. The
application form is completed and returned
by the applicant before a decision is made,
whether or not to invite the applicant for an
interview. If the candidate is rejected at this
stage a letter is sent thanking him for the
application. The other applicants are invited
to attend an interview.

Applicant asks for


application form

Applicant completes and


returns the application form

Application opened and


assessed

Application rejected

Applicant invited for an


interview

Letter sent

Interview

The selected applicants are interviewed and


the interviewer decides on a successful
applicant and a runner up. The successful
candidate is offered the job.
If the
successful candidate refuses the job then
the job is offered to the runner up.
Unsuccessful candidates are sent a letter
thanking them for attending the interview.
153 words

Successful applicant and


runner up selected

Application rejected

Successful applicant
offered the job

Letter sent

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Sample 5: Process Diagram (Illustration)


Tips:
1. Consistently use the present tense of the verb (note the underlined items in the sample below).
2. Use a variety of expressions that indicate an order (see expressions in boldface in the sample below).
3. Cluster the process into different phases to make it easy for the reader to follow your text.
4. Add information if necessary to add meaning to some parts of the process and add length to your report.
However, do not overdo it.

The diagram illustrates how power is generated using water.


Hydro-electric power generation begins in the atmosphere where water vapors created by evaporation
condense into clouds and, when heavy enough, fall as rain. Rainwater is then collected in large reservoirs such
as a dam, from which water falls down, controlled by a valve, into a turbine down below creating mechanical
energy. This mechanical energy is transmitted through high voltage cables that end in a transformer station.
Water that flows through the turbine is pumped back to maintain the water level in the reservoir and keep the
turbine running.
Meanwhile, in the transformer station, the mechanical energy is transformed into electrical energy. From here,
the power is distributed through underground cables to the end-users such as the households, industries,
hospitals and schools.
Overall, hydro-electric power is sustainable as it uses water, a bountiful natural resource. It is also clean as no
waste is created in the process. 158 words

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20

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Sample 6: Maps
Describing changes in maps is another critical skill that writers for the IELTS have to develop. It is similar to
reporting graphs and charts as writers are often required to point out the general trends (in this case, the changes)
and use appropriate language of comparison.
Tips:
1. Do not just describe the physical features of the maps. Describe the developments that took place.
2. Make use of a variety of appropriate past verb forms (see verbs used in the sample below).
3. Make use of suitable expressions describing the locations where the changes took place (see items in italics in
the sample below).

You should spend about 20 minutes on


this task.
The maps show the changes that
have taken place at the seaside resort
of Templeton between 1990 and
2005.
Summarize the information by
selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons
where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Figure taken from Improve your IELTS by McCarter
and Whitby; Macmillian Publishers Limited, 2007

Sample:

The maps highlight the development that took place in the seaside resort of Templeton within a 15-year period.
In 1990, Templeton was a relatively quieter coastal town with many individual houses and little economic activity.
After 15 years, many changes occurred, the most noticeable of which were 1the cutting down of nearly all trees
and 2the conversion of individual houses into large apartment buildings that lined up both at the
coastline and northwestern part of the town. 3An additional road had been built to provide access to
these apartment buildings and the huge supermarket servicing the whole area.
Other notable changes include 4the access railway added extending westward along the seaside and 5the
conversion of the woodland east of the river and near the school into an airport to accommodate the
increased population of the area. 6More detached houses had been built nearby. 7A factory was also
constructed along the coastline and 8a ferry was made to enable transfer of cars to nearby islands.
Overall, a comparison between the two maps reveals a change of the place from a quaint seaside resort into a
bustling economic center.
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21

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Writing Criteria
Before submitting your work, check that you have satisfied the following criteria:
TASK 1: REPORT/LETTER
Task Fulfilment
Have I written at least 150 words?
Have I only presented information that is necessary to my report?
Coherence and Cohesion
Is my report logically arranged?
Have I presented the data accurately?
Was I able to make use of appropriate expressions to properly link sentences and paragraphs in
my work?
Vocabulary and Sentence Structure
Was I able to make use of a variety of accurate words and phrases to describe the significant
points of my report?
Have I shown facility in writing information using a variety of simple and complex sentence
structures?
Is my report free from grammatical mistakes?
TASK 2: ESSAY
Arguments, Ideas and Evidence
Have I provided logical reasoning and coherent arguments to support my view?
Have I thoroughly discussed the different views of the question?
Have I provided sufficient supporting statements to illustrate or clarify my point?
Communicative Quality
Have I expressed myself in an effortless, non-controversial, neutral, and objective manner?
Are there any inappropriate languages that may have compromised the formal context of my work?
Vocabulary and Sentence Structure
Have I made use of a variety of accurate words and phrases used to effectively convey my
message?
Have I used appropriate expressions to link properly my sentences and paragraphs together?
Have I shown facility in expressing ideas using a variety of simple and complex sentence
structures?
Is my work free from any grammatical mistakes?
IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

22

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Supplement 1: Reporting Vocabulary


Table 1. Vocabulary to add range

Alternative expressions
1. Increase

augment, expand, swell, grow, gain strength, shoot up, rise,


inflate, mushroom, escalate, snowball, climb, skyrocket

2. Decrease

diminish, lessen, shrink, drop, fall, descend, tail off, run low,
dwindle, slacken, scale down, recede, taper off, lower, slip, go
down, sink, dip, nose-dive, plummet, lose ground

Table 2. Vocabulary to add depth


Items

Modifiers

1. For nouns

corresponding, prodigious, subsequent, sharp, considerable,


marked, concomitant

2. For verbs

notably, enormously, materially, relatively, partially, steadily,


insignificantly, continuously, considerably, substantially

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

23

The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Supplement 2: Vocabulary to facilitate cohesion


Linking words

Function

1. To indicate addition

again, also, and, besides, further, furthermore, in


addition, moreover, next, too

2. To exhibit causes and effects

accordingly, as a result, consequently, for this


reason, hence, if, since, so, then, therefore, thus

3. To indicate similarities

also, by comparison, in the same manner, likewise,


similarly

4. To acknowledge the validity of another


persons point

although this may be true, certainly, even though,


granted, it is true, naturally, of course, to be sure, to
tell the truth, with the exception of

5. To prepare for a contrast

after all, but, however, in contrast, in spite of,


nevertheless, on the contrary, on the other hand,
still, unlike, yet

6. To indicate examples

for example, for instance, in fact, to illustrate,


specifically, a case in point would be, like

7. To provide indication of time or sequence

after, afterward, as, at the same time, before,


currently, during, earlier, finally, formerly,
immediately, in the meantime, lately, later,
meanwhile, next, shortly, simultaneously, soon,
subsequently, this time, until now

8. To indicate place or direction

above, around, below, beyond, close, elsewhere,


farther on, here, nearby, opposite, there, to the left
(right)

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

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The Study Aide Avenue by Roberto G. Balba Jr.

3/F ASIC Building, Ponciano-Bonifacio Streets, Davao City


Telephone: 082 3006893

Supplement 3: Complicated Sentence Structures


1. COMPOUND SENTENCE: Two ideas written in simple sentences combined using and, (;), but and yet
Pattern:

S V 0, ____ S V 0

Examples:
a. IELTS is an English proficiency test, and it covers four components.
b. Children are in their impressionable stages; they need their parents guidance.
c. IELTS is administered for 3 hours only, but examinees prepare for it for months.
d. Davao City is situated in the war-stricken Mindanao, yet it is commendably peaceful.
2. COMPLEX SENTENCE: Two ideas coined using the following patterns:
Pattern 1:

S, ____________, - V O or _______________, S V O

The additional idea relating to the subject may be an adjective, a verb or a prepositional phrase.
Examples:
a. The Pearl Farm Beach Resort, possibly the most famous resort in Mindanao, is my favorite vacation spot.
b. Our ancestral house, standing tall amidst the newly constructed buildings, is now considered a landmark
in our province.
c. With arms up to the elbows, children while their time by watching their favorite TV shows.
d. The father, who is the head of the family, has to work doubly hard for his family.
Pattern 2:

S V O, __________________

The additional idea, which is often a noun or pronoun, relating to the direct object is called an
appositive. Appositives serve as alternate information, and they are written to specify.
Examples:
a. I saw Mrs. Helena, the bank manager.
b. I look forward to spending my free time at SM City Mall, the biggest mall in Davao.
c. Leaders should aim for a peace treaty, a necessary ingredient to stop the war against terror.
Pattern 3: S

V O + dependent clause or dependent clause, + S V O

A dependent clause is one that starts with any of these dependent words: because, although, even though,
while, when, after, before, as, if, so, etc.

Examples:
a. Her parents are very proud of her because she takes her studies seriously.
b. Although the Philippines is a beautiful country, its poor economy forces Filipinos to work abroad.
3.

COMPOUND-COMPLEX SENTENCE: the combination of the first two types, the sentence calls for the inclusion
of three ideas.
Examples:
1. S, ________, -V-O + S-V-O
The Pearl Farm Beach Resort, possibly the most famous resort in Mindanao, is my favorite vacation
spot, but its remote location makes it difficult for me to frequent the place.
2. S-V-O, ______________ + S-V-O
I saw Mrs. Helena, the bank manager, but she never looked at me.
3. S-V-0 + dependent clause + S-V-O
Her parents are very proud of her because she takes her studies seriously, and she is also her
classmates favorite.

IELTS Strategies and Techniques !

25

Answer key.
Essay drill. Page 15
1. BA
2. O
3. BA
4. O
5. E
6. E
7. E
8. BA
9. O
10.

BA

11.

12.

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