As an IELTS instructor with over 20 years of experience, I’ve witnessed firsthand the struggle many students face when it comes to paraphrasing in IELTS Writing Task 2. Paraphrasing, or expressing the same idea using different words and sentence structures, is a crucial skill for achieving a high band score. It demonstrates your lexical resource and grammatical range, two key assessment criteria in the IELTS writing test.

Why is Paraphrasing Important in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Effective paraphrasing helps you avoid repetition, showcase a wider vocabulary, and demonstrate your understanding of complex ideas. Examiners are looking for your ability to manipulate language and present arguments in a sophisticated and academic manner.

Techniques for Effective Paraphrasing

Here are some proven techniques to help you paraphrase effectively in your IELTS Writing Task 2 essays:

1. Use Synonyms

One of the simplest ways to paraphrase is by replacing key words with synonyms. However, be cautious! Ensure the synonym fits the context and maintains the original meaning of the sentence.

Original: The government should invest more in public transportation.
Paraphrased: Authorities should allocate more funds to mass transit systems.

2. Change the Word Form

Experiment with different word forms (nouns, verbs, adjectives, adverbs) to express the same idea.

Original: Pollution is a serious problem in many cities.
Paraphrased: Many urban areas are heavily polluted.

3. Restructure the Sentence

Change the sentence structure while preserving the original meaning. You can use different grammatical structures:

• Active to Passive:
  Original: Technology has transformed communication.
  Paraphrased: Communication has been transformed by technology.
• Changing word order:
  Original: Education is crucial for economic development.
  Paraphrased: For economic development, education is crucial.

4. Use Different Phrases or Idioms

If possible, replace a common phrase with an idiom or a more academic expression.

Original: The cost of living is increasing rapidly.
Paraphrased: The cost of living is skyrocketing.

paraphrasing-techniques|paraphrasing techniques|An illustration showing different techniques of paraphrasing, including using synonyms, changing word forms, restructuring sentences, and using different phrases or idioms.

Example from an IELTS Essay Prompt

Let’s look at an example using a real IELTS essay prompt:

Prompt: Some people believe that the government should provide free housing for everyone. Others believe that it is not the government’s responsibility to provide housing. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Paraphrased: There is debate surrounding the role of government in providing accommodation. While some advocate for universal free housing, others contend that it falls outside the scope of government responsibility.

Tips for Success

• Don’t Overuse It: While paraphrasing is important, don’t try to paraphrase every single word. Focus on key terms and phrases.
• Maintain Clarity: Your primary goal is to communicate clearly. Avoid using overly complex language or synonyms that might confuse the reader.
• Practice Regularly: The more you practice paraphrasing, the easier it will become. Incorporate it into your daily writing exercises.

Conclusion

Mastering the art of paraphrasing is essential for achieving a high score in IELTS Writing Task 2. By using a variety of techniques, you can effectively demonstrate your lexical resource and grammatical range, impressing the examiner and boosting your overall band score. Remember to practice regularly and focus on clarity to communicate your ideas effectively.