How to Get a Band 7 in IELTS Academic Writing: A Step-by-Step Guide

IELTS Academic Writing Test Format

The IELTS Academic Writing test consists of two tasks. 

Task 1 requires candidates to describe visual information such as graphs, charts, tables, or diagrams, while Task 2 involves writing an essay responding to a prompt or question. 

The total test duration is 60 minutes, with 20 minutes allotted for Task 1 and 40 minutes for Task 2. Below, you can find the complete description of the IELTS writing format. 

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1

In Task 1, you are presented with visual data that can take various forms, including bar charts, line graphs, pie charts, tables, maps, and more. Your task is to write a descriptive report summarising the information provided.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2

Task 2 presents a prompt or question that requires you to write a formal essay. You are expected to present an argument, provide evidence, and critically analyse the given topic.

How to Get a Band 7 in IELTS Academic Writing Test?

Securing a Band 7 in IELTS Academic Writing demands a combination of skills, strategy, and practice. Here are tips to prepare for the IELTS Exam to achieve a 7 band score.

Tip 1 - Understand the IELTS Assessment Criteria

Familiarise yourself with the IELTS assessment criteria for Task 1 and Task 2. The criteria include factors like Task Achievement, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Knowing what the examiners are looking for is essential for proper response.

Tip 2 - Practice Time Management

Time management is crucial to achieving band 7 in IELTS Academic Writing Test. Allocate 20 minutes to Task 1 and 40 minutes to Task 2. Stick to these limits during your practice sessions to ensure that you can complete both tasks within the given time.

 Tip 3 - Develop a Structured Approach

For Task 1, adopt a structured approach. Begin with an introduction that paraphrases the information provided, followed by an overview of the main trends or key features. Present the data in a logical sequence and conclude by summarising the findings.

Tip 4 - Construct a Clear Argument for Task 2

For Task 2, construct a clear and concise argument. Your essay should have an introduction, body paragraphs presenting your points with evidence, and a conclusion summarising your main ideas.

Tip 5 - Enhance Vocabulary and Grammar

To score well in Lexical Resource and Grammatical Range and Accuracy, work on expanding your vocabulary and improving your grammar. Avoid repetition and aim for diversity in your language use.

Tip 6 - Practice Writing Essays and Reports

Regular practice is crucial. Write essays and reports on various topics, covering a wide range of subjects, to become familiar with different question types.

Tip 7 - Seek Feedback

Have your writing assessed by a teacher, tutor, or native speaker who can provide constructive feedback. This feedback is invaluable for identifying areas that require improvement.

Tip 8 - Analyse Sample Essays and Reports

Analyse sample essays and reports to understand the structure, language, and organisation used in Band 7 responses. This can serve as a reference for your own writing.

Tip 9 - Edit and Revise

Allocate time for editing and revising your work. Proofread for grammar and spelling errors, and make sure your sentences are clear and well-structured.

Tip 10 - Simulate Test Conditions

In the weeks leading up to your IELTS exam, simulate test conditions by practising under timed circumstances. This will help you get accustomed to the pressure of completing tasks within the time constraints.

IELTS Academic Writing Sample Test

To put your skills to the test, here is an IELTS Academic Writing sample test for Task 1 and Task 2.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 1 Sample

Question 1 - The table below shows the information and predictions regarding the change in the percentage of the population aged 65 and above in three countries. Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.

Answer - The table mentioned in the question represent the information[MOU1] [MOU2]   and prediction about the proportion of the population aged 65 and above in Canada, Germany and UK for the year 1988, 2000 and 2030. The data is presented in the form of percentages.

Overall, it is clear from the table that all these three countries would witness a surge in the population of the older generation. The highest proportion of the population of such people was in Germany and would continue till 2030, whereas the population in the UK was comparatively low.

To commence with, it is apparent from the table that in 1988, the population of retired people in Canada was 16.32%, and the population for the same grew to 20.67% in 2000. On the other hand, the population of elderly people in Germany in 1988 constituted 20.45%, and it rose to 25.32% in 2000, a rapid increase of approximately 4%. However, the older generation in the UK was about 14.23%, and the proportion of senior citizens increased to 14.89%, representing a slight population growth in 2000.

With regard to 2030, it is estimated that the population of retirees will grow to 26.35% in Canada. However, the population of elderly people would rise to 30.42% in Germany, which is relatively high compared to the population of other countries. It seemed that people of this nation might live longer due to better health facilities. Further, it is predicted that even in the UK, the population of pensioners would climb to 20.35%.

IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 Sample

Question 2 - Some scientists think there are intelligent life forms on other planets, and messages should be sent to contact them. Other scientists think it is a bad idea and would be dangerous. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 

Answer - It has been a matter of contention whether speculated creatures on other planets are intelligent or dangerous. It has been asserted by a few scientists that there might be some life forms in outer space, and they should be communicated via messages. However, others opine that it is not a wise idea and, therefore, could prove harmful. This essay shall delve into both the views followed by my opinion.

On the one hand, proponents of the former notion assert that such imaginary extra-terrestrial bodies should be contacted to confirm their existence on various planets. It is due to the fact that several scientists want to explore other life forms, which could help in discovering the technological advancements that such creatures might have. To exemplify, a lot of advancements take place every year. If scientists find these beforehand, it could help in solving complex issues such as healthcare natural disasters, thereby proving it to be advantageous.

On the flip side, opponents argue that these imaginary creatures could pose a threat to humans if contacted. In fact, humans have no idea about how the aliens look alike and how they would react when contacted. They could be fatal to humankind and, in turn, lead to destruction on the Earth. To quote an example, a recent study by the New York Times revealed that scientists had tried to contact aliens when they received signals from outer space but were unsuccessful. Thus, contacting other life forms is not a prudent idea as it could cause danger to mankind.

In my perspective, other life forms could be harmful as they would try to gather more information about our blue planet. One cannot deny the fact that such creatures would frequently try to contact the people on Earth and -also gather information about our planet. By doing such activities often, they would have access to all knowledge about us, and this, in turn, could be threatening.

To conclude, even though aliens may help in discovering technological developments in future, I perceive that it could prove fatal to people on earth, and it is not a wise idea to contact them in order to confirm their existence in outer space.

Prepare IELTS (PI) provides a free IELTS Writing Test that you can take and practice for the exam.

Conclusion

Achieving a Band 7 in IELTS Academic Writing Test is an attainable goal with the right strategies and consistent practice. Regular practice, analysis of sample essays, and simulating test conditions will help you build the skills necessary to secure a Band 7 in IELTS Academic Writing Test. As a whole, by following the tips above, you can increase your chances of achieving the desired score.

We hope now you can prepare well and get a 7 band score in IELTS. However, you can contact Prepare IELTS Exam (PI) expert counsellors for further guidance. Our team of education experts is dedicated to providing you with the best guidance in the IELTS exam. You can get a one-on-one counselling session online via our platform. Contact us at info@prepareieltsexam.com or call us at +91 9773398388.