The IELTS Writing Task 2 introduction causes a lot of controversy. Should you paraphrase the question in the introduction? Should you always give your opinion?
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Hi Nguyễn Trung Hiếu
That’s a lot of questions! Perhaps you’d like to book a coaching hour with me or join the Academy where we have regular Q&A sessions.
Best wishes
Fiona
Dear Ms. Fiona, I want to ask you some questions about IELTS Writing.
1. One problem I faced when a person said to me “You can find contradictions in both different dictionaries and English professors. That is why English is both an art and a science” This statement give me a scenario that show the unclearliness to evaluate which languages is formal or informal, OR which ones is suitable for IELTS Writing for IELTS Speaking. Can it suffer IELTS Candidate’s score in IELTS Speaking and Writing?
* Further one I see is related to the usage of ‘proverbs’ and ‘rhetorical questions’ in IELTS Writing Task 1 (even in writing models of some IELTS real reliable expert and ex-examiner)
Example to clarify my problem
– First example with the usage of “Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life” – a proverb
“However, the look of the building is also important because of the role of art in everyday life. Architecture is often considered one of the original and purest forms of artistic expression. I am reminded of a quote from Pablo Picasso who said ‘Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday life.’ Imagine a city filled with ugly, utilitarian structures like many Soviet-era buildings. These buildings will not lift people’s spirits or encourage them to contemplate the intended message. Contrast this with a city where architects have been given free rein to be artists. As long as the buildings are also functional, you will find a city filled with beauty and provocation that enhances life for its inhabitants. The outward appearance does not have to be beautiful, but it has a responsibility to contribute something to enrich the lives of everyday people.”
(This text is derived from a sample answer of former examiner)
– Second example with rhetorical questions
“In some types of work, qualifications are less important. With manual jobs, such as cleaning and laboring, there is very little theoretical knowledge required. Thus, employers are more likely to seek people with a good working knowledge of the job and what it entails. However, even in these jobs it is important for people to have a minimum level of education, especially if they want to rise above the lowest working level. How can a person without good writing and mathematical skills balance a budget, or deal with legal or safety issues? Therefore, qualifications matter even in more practical types of work.”
(This text is from a model answer of an IELTS test writer)
2. I have some questions about your Members Academy.
– You mentioned when attending your academy, I can 2-minute speaking recording every week to hand in to receive your feedback. It’s similar to 8 x Fiona’s Speaking & Pronunciation Analysis and Correction, isn’t it? If yes, do you offer feedback and correction about a member’s IELTS Speaking full test (15-minute test) to give an estimated score.
– If becoming a member of Coaching & Course, in addition to fixed courses you give, can I access any new lessons or new practices every week?
– Do you offer any live lessons about IELTS Writing or Speaking? I always know more about it?
– Can I ask you the extra costs if I want to receive more Writing feedbacks besides 8 fixed full writing tasks in Members Academy?
My questions are too long, but I really hope you will answer them. I look forward to seeing your answer.
Yours Sincerely,