IELTS Writing Module 1 | Smart Students Hub

Strategy Lesson

1. The Three Decisions Before Writing

What exactly is the question asking?
What is my position?
What two main ideas will support that position?

Common problem: students start writing before deciding their position, then the essay becomes inconsistent.

Worked Example

2. Worked Example

Prompt: Some people think university students should study only subjects related to their future careers. Others believe they should be free to study any subject they choose. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Position: Students should have freedom to choose, but career relevance should still be considered.

Thesis: Although career-focused courses can improve employability, I believe students should retain substantial freedom to study subjects that match their interests and strengths.

Paragraph 1: Benefits of career-focused study.
Paragraph 2: Why broader choice remains valuable.

Guided Practice

3. Identify the Best Thesis

Prompt: Some people believe public transport should be free in cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Public transport is an important topic in many cities. I largely agree that public transport should be free because it can reduce congestion and improve access, although the cost must be managed carefully. There are advantages and disadvantages to transport.

Planning Practice

4. Build a Paragraph Map

Prompt: Many people now work from home. Is this a positive or negative development?

Your position

Your thesis

Body Paragraph 1

Body Paragraph 2

Timed Mini-Task

5. Five-Minute Planning Challenge

Prompt: Some people think schools should teach financial skills such as budgeting and saving. Others think school time should focus on academic subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

05:00

Mastery Check

6. Mastery Check

1. What is the main purpose of a strong thesis in Task 2?

It adds more examples. It clearly states the writer's position and main direction. It repeats the question exactly.

2. What should a paragraph plan contain?

As many ideas as possible Two clear main ideas that directly support the position Only vocabulary lists

3. When should the writer decide the position?

After writing the conclusion Before writing the full essay Only if there is extra time