On the IELTS Writing exam, it’s vital that you stay on topic.
What happens if you go off-topic?
Today you’ll learn how this affects your Task Response score.
We’ll also share a brainstorm for a difficult IELTS Task 2 essay.
Today’s question
Hi, just came across your video about how going off-topic affects IELTS’ scores. I have just completed my IELTS writing exam, and I am nervous that I may not be able to secure a band 6.5 in my writing… So I want to ask you for help, and to help me judge if it really goes super off-topic or not.
So the question I got was “In this technological era, personal information is stored on computers by a lot of organizations and companies in some countries. Do you think this development’s advantages outweigh its disadvantages?” I completely overlooked the phrase “stored on computers”.
My stance is that the advantages do not outweigh the disadvantages, and my first point was that the companies may be able to use our data for some evil purposes. My second body paragraph is a rebuttal, first highlighting that companies are able to use the data for better design of their products. I then argue that it is just a short term benefit, and is outweigh by the long term disadvantages.
Do you think that I’m completely off-topic for something like this? Do you think I can secure at least a band 6 for my task response? I am super nervous right now, and would appreciate your feedback…
Jamela Yeung
Thank you so much! Regards,
Task Response score
Your Task Response score is greatly affected if you don’t stay on-task.
If you don’t answer the question directly or veer off-task, your score is lowered.
- Band 6: the essay addresses all parts of the question, although some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Band 5: addresses the topic only partially
Vocabulary score
Your vocabulary score can also be affected if you don’t stay on-task.
If the vocabulary you use is unrelated to the question, your vocabulary score goes down.
- Band 6: uses adequate range of vocabulary for the task
- Band 5: minimum for the task
You must show that you know vocabulary for the question.
If you don’t answer the question directly, you aren’t able to show this.
Include all key words in the introduction
You must include all the key words for the question or a paraphrase of them.
A good strategy is to paraphrase the question in the first sentence of your introduction.
Read the question and make sure you understand it.
If your paraphrase is incorrect or off-topic, your score will be affected.
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Recent Task 2 question
The question submitted by this student is tricky.
In this technological era, personal information is stored on computers by a lot of organizations and companies in some countries. Do you think this development’s advantages outweigh its disadvantages?
“Data” does imply that information is stored.
However, it’s not a direct paraphrase, as data is just information.
Therefore, this could impact the store but not drastically.
Task 2 sample brainstorm
This question asks for disadvantages and advantages.
For a question with a plural such as this, two of each must be provided.
To satisfy this task, you will need two advantages and two disadvantages.
Similarly, if a question asks for causes and solutions, two of each must be provided.
#1: Disadvantages
One evident disadvantage is a possible data breach. This can cost companies their reputation.
After providing this reason, an example and details are needed.
For example, even reputable companies like Target can fall prey to security fraud. In 2013, their data breach cost them exorbitant amounts when credit card information for millions of their customers was stolen.
A second reason that could be shared is the cost to individuals.
These may include financial, losses or identity theft.
#2: Advantages
One clear advantage is online banking.
Another is direct deposit for paychecks.
A good technique is to provide examples and details that support both.
Nevertheless, I believe the benefits gained are worth the risk involved. As a shining example, online banking has added myriad conveniences. Furthermore, employees are able to set up direct deposit for payroll. As a result of these two advantages, it is no longer necessary to travel to a bank to deposit checks.
Takeaway
It is vital that you stay on-topic on IELTS essays.
You must directly answer the question in the topic.
Both your Task Response score and Vocabulary scores will go down if you go off-topic.
For all the strategies you need, sign up for 3 Keys IELTS.
What questions do you have from today’s episode?
Please leave a comment below.