The Importance of Understanding “Should” in IELTS Writing Topics
For many IELTS test-takers, especially those less familiar with the nuances of the English language, encountering the word “should” in Writing Task 2 prompts can be a source of uncertainty. “Should” implies an obligation or recommendation, prompting you to express an opinion and provide supporting arguments. It’s crucial to understand this as it dictates the structure and tone of your essay. Misinterpreting the prompt can lead to an off-topic response and ultimately affect your band score.
Deconstructing “Should” IELTS Writing Topics
When faced with a “should” topic, your essay should effectively address these key aspects:
1. Identify the Obligation or Recommendation
Carefully analyze the prompt to determine what action or behavior is being suggested. For example:
- “Nowadays, many people choose to be self-employed. Do the advantages of being self-employed outweigh the disadvantages?”
In this case, the prompt doesn’t directly use “should” but implies it by asking you to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks, essentially asking if people should choose self-employment.
2. Present a Clear Stance
Having understood the implied “should”, clearly state your position. Do you agree or disagree with the suggested action? Your thesis statement should reflect this stance and guide your essay’s direction.
3. Develop Strong Arguments
This is where your critical thinking skills come into play. Provide at least two well-developed arguments to support your stance. Each argument should have supporting evidence or examples to add weight to your claims.
Example:
- Argument: Self-employment offers greater flexibility and work-life balance.
- Evidence: Individuals can set their own hours and work from anywhere, allowing them to better manage personal commitments.
4. Acknowledge the Counter-Argument
While advocating for your stance, it’s equally important to acknowledge the opposing viewpoint. This showcases your ability to consider different perspectives and strengthens your overall argument. Briefly present the counter-argument and refute it with evidence.
5. Conclude with a Balanced Perspective
Your conclusion should reiterate your stance and briefly summarize the main arguments. While you’ve presented a clear opinion, ending on a note of balanced consideration demonstrates maturity in your writing.
Example: Analyzing a “Should” IELTS Writing Prompt
Let’s look at an example prompt:
“Some people believe that the government should spend money on building public libraries, while others believe that this money should be spent on more important matters. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
- Identify the Obligation: The prompt questions whether governments are obligated to prioritize spending on public libraries.
- Stance: You could agree, disagree, or present a balanced view.
- Arguments (Agree): Libraries provide free access to information and resources, promote literacy, and offer community spaces.
- Arguments (Disagree): Funding could be directed towards more pressing issues like healthcare or education infrastructure.
- Counter-Argument: While other areas require funding, neglecting libraries can have detrimental effects on communities, particularly access to knowledge and learning opportunities.
Tips for Tackling “Should” IELTS Writing Topics
- Thoroughly analyze the prompt: Don’t rush into writing. Spend time understanding the question’s implications before formulating your response.
- Use a clear and concise writing style: Avoid jargon and complex sentence structures. Aim for clarity and fluency in your writing.
- Provide relevant examples: Support your arguments with relevant and relatable examples to enhance your points’ credibility.
- Practice makes perfect: Regularly practice responding to various “should” IELTS Writing prompts to build confidence and refine your essay writing skills.
Conclusion
Mastering the art of answering “should” IELTS Writing topics requires a blend of critical thinking, vocabulary, and understanding of essay structures. By following the strategies outlined in this guide and engaging in consistent practice, you can confidently approach these topics and achieve your desired IELTS band score. Remember, clarity of thought, well-structured arguments, and a strong command of English will ultimately contribute to a successful IELTS Writing performance.