IELTS Academic Essay Writing Guide
Article 3: Writing Powerful Paragraphs
From Blueprint to Reality
You have the structure; now it's time to write. Each paragraph has a specific job. A strong introduction grabs the examiner's attention, well-developed body paragraphs build your argument logically, and a concise conclusion provides a satisfying summary. This lesson will teach you the techniques to master each one.
Part 1: The Perfect 2-Sentence Introduction
Your introduction must be sharp and effective. Follow this simple two-step formula.
Sentence 1: Paraphrase the Question
Rewrite the general topic of the question using synonyms and a different sentence structure.
Sentence 2: State Your Thesis
Give your direct answer to the question. This is your main argument.
Band 5 Example
"Some people think high school students must do unpaid community work. I totally agree with this idea because it is good for students and the community."
Analysis: The language is too simple and copies words directly from the prompt ("unpaid community work"). The thesis is basic.
Band 9 Example
"It is often argued that requiring adolescents to participate in voluntary services without pay should be an integral component of their secondary education. I firmly believe that this is a positive development, as it fosters crucial personal skills in young people and provides significant benefits to the wider community."
Analysis: Excellent paraphrasing ("adolescents", "voluntary services", "integral component"). The thesis is clear and outlines the two main points of the essay.
Part 2: The P.E.E.L. Method for Body Paragraphs
Each body paragraph must explore one main idea in detail. Use the P.E.E.L. method to ensure your paragraphs are well-developed and easy to follow.
P = Point
This is the topic sentence. It introduces the main idea of the paragraph.
"The primary benefit of mandatory volunteering is the development of soft skills and maturity in students."
E = Explain
Explain your point in more detail. Why is it true? What does it mean?
"By engaging in real-world environments outside the classroom, young people are confronted with challenges that build character, such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving."
E = Example
Provide a specific example to support your point.
"For instance, a student volunteering at a senior care facility may learn to communicate patiently and compassionately with the elderly, an experience that academic study alone cannot provide."
L = Link
Briefly summarize the paragraph and connect it back to your main thesis.
"Therefore, this form of service is an invaluable tool for personal growth."
Putting It All Together: A Band 9 Body Paragraph
The primary benefit of mandatory volunteering is the development of soft skills and maturity in students. By engaging in real-world environments outside the classroom, young people are confronted with challenges that build character, such as empathy, communication, and problem-solving. For instance, a student volunteering at a senior care facility may learn to communicate patiently and compassionately with the elderly, an experience that academic study alone cannot provide. Therefore, this form of service is an invaluable tool for personal growth.
Part 3: The Clear 2-Sentence Conclusion
End your essay with a concise summary. Never introduce new information in the conclusion.
Band 5 Example
"In conclusion, I think unpaid work is good. It helps students learn and it helps people. We should do more of this in the future to solve problems."
Analysis: The language is repetitive and simple. It introduces a new idea at the end ("solve problems"), which should be avoided.
Band 9 Example
"In conclusion, making community service a compulsory element of secondary education is a highly advantageous policy. It not only equips students with essential life skills but also strengthens the fabric of society through their contributions."
Analysis: Effectively paraphrases the thesis from the introduction. It summarizes the two main points (student skills, community benefit) without adding new information.