Để đạt điểm cao trong phần thi Writing thì bài của bạn phải đáp ứng đủ cả 4 tiêu chí chấm điểm của ban giám khảo ở mức khá. Trong đó, tiêu chí Lexical Resource yêu cầu thí sinh phải có vốn từ vựng đủ rộng, đặc biệt khi dùng từ ở bậc C1 & C2 là một điểm cộng. Hiểu được điều đó, IDP đã tổng hợp lại các từ vựng IELTS Writing Task 2 chất theo từng chủ đề.
1. Vocabulary by Topic
IELTS Writing Task 2 typically presents a socially argumentative topic, requiring you to discuss or provide your opinion. Due to the wide range of topics and vocabulary, this article focuses on six of the most common Task 2 topics.
1.1 Technology
The rise of the digital age and rapid technological advancements continue to impact our daily lives. As a result, Technology remains a frequent topic in all IELTS sections—Writing, Reading, and Speaking. Common questions often explore the development of technology, its benefits, and its drawbacks.
Sample Task 2 Questions:
Some people believe spending money on space exploration technology is unjustifiable and that there are better ways to use this money. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Maintaining public libraries is a waste of money since computers can replace their functions. Do you agree or disagree?
Scientists predict that computers will drive cars in the near future. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Why?
Crime rates are decreasing due to advanced technology that can prevent and solve crimes. Do you agree or disagree?
Suggested Vocabulary:
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Advances in technology | Technological progress |
A technological breakthrough | Major technological innovation |
To become over reliant on | Depend too much on |
To computerize something | Digitize a process or item |
Leading edge technology | Most advanced technology |
User friendly | Easy to use |
To discourage real interaction | Reduce face to face communication |
Social networking sites | Online social platforms |
Wireless connection | Wireless internet access |
State of the art | Most modern or advanced |
1.2 Effective Communication
Alongside Technology, Communication has become increasingly important. This topic often overlaps with others, such as social media, internet communication, and interpersonal relationships.
Sample Task 2 Questions:
Social media platforms like Facebook and Twitter are replacing face to face interaction. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Some people believe that online communication breaks down geographical barriers and enables people to connect who would otherwise never meet. What are the advantages and disadvantages of international online communication?
Suggested Vocabulary:
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Sophisticated | Complex and advanced |
Conjecture | Guess or assumption |
Hesitation | Pause due to uncertainty |
Language barrier | Difficulty in communication due to language |
Means of communication | Ways of interacting |
Distinguish | Differentiate |
There is something to be said for | There are valid reasons for |
Needless to say | Obviously |
Express oneself | Share personal thoughts or feelings |
Sign language | Non-verbal communication using gestures |
1.3 Lifestyles
Lifestyle topics are always relevant. Post-pandemic, people are paying more attention to healthy living, self-care, and well-being.
Sample Task 2 Questions:
It is more important to spend public money promoting healthy lifestyles to prevent illness than to spend it on treating people who are already sick. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
More city dwellers are living in small homes with limited or no outdoor space. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Some people think it is better to live in a horizontal city, while others prefer a vertical city. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Suggested Vocabulary:
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Daily routine | Everyday habits |
Fulfillment | Satisfaction or achievement |
Self expression | Showing one’s personality or feelings |
Risk taker | Person who takes risks |
Motivate | Inspire or encourage |
Lifetime opportunity | Once in a lifetime chance |
Way of life | Lifestyle |
Lead a happy life | Live a fulfilling life |
Lifelong ambition | Goal pursued throughout life |
Living expenses | Cost of living |
1.4 The Energy Crisis
With the rise of modern industry, environmental and energy issues have gained attention. Concerns about resource depletion make this a frequent topic in IELTS Writing.
Sample Task 2 Questions:
Some believe the best way to address global environmental problems is to increase fuel prices. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many countries use fossil fuels as their main energy source, while others promote alternative energy. Is this a positive or negative development?
Natural resources are being consumed at an increasing rate. What are the dangers of this situation? What should we do?
Suggested Vocabulary:
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Fossil fuel | Non renewable energy source |
Greenhouse gas | Gas contributing to climate change |
Hybrid | Combination of two elements |
Alternative | Substitute or different option |
Eco friendly | Environmentally safe |
Renewable energy sources | Sustainable energy options |
Waste treatment | Process of handling waste |
Inflict damage on | Cause harm to |
Deplete | Use up resources |
Minimize | Reduce as much as possible |
1.5 Animal Rights
As people grow more compassionate toward animals, animal rights have become a hot topic. This often includes debates over natural vs. artificial habitats and conservation efforts.
Sample Task 2 Questions:
Some believe zoos are cruel and should be shut down. Others think zoos help protect wild animals.
Some think too many resources are spent on protecting animals and birds. Do you agree or disagree?
Some human activities negatively affect plants and animals. Some say it's too late to change, while others believe effective actions can still help. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Animals are becoming extinct due to human activities on land and sea. Why is this happening? What solutions can you suggest?
Suggested Vocabulary:
Vocabulary | Meaning |
|---|---|
Respect, relevance | Honor, importance |
Animal abuse, forms | Mistreatment of animals |
Protection laws | Legal frameworks for animal safety |
Abandonment | Leaving animals without care |
Shelters | Safe places for animals |
Violation of rights | Infringement on entitlements |
Ecology | Study of the environment |
Perspective | Point of view |
Wildlife reserves | Protected areas for animals |
National parks | Government protected natural areas |
1.6 Gender
Gender equality is widely acknowledged, but social biases and stereotypes still exist. Gender topics are common in Writing Task 2.
Sample Task 2 Questions:
Some believe men and women have different qualities, so certain jobs are suited to each gender. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many believe women should take on roles similar to men in the military and police, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
In schools and universities, girls tend to choose arts subjects while boys choose sciences. Why is this? Should this trend be changed?
Suggested Vocabulary:
Vocabulary | Meaning |
Stereotype | Fixed general idea about people or groups |
Outdated | No longer useful or relevant |
Barrier | Obstacle |
Sex discrimination | Gender-based unfair treatment |
Gender equality | Equal rights for all genders |
Social bias | Prejudice from society |
Responsibility | Duty or obligation |
Feminine character | Traits associated with women |
The weaker sex | Traditional term for women |
Domestic violence | Abuse in the home |
2. Essential Linking Phrases for IELTS Writing
Besides topic-specific vocabulary, transition phrases play a vital role in connecting ideas and structuring essays. Here are some must-know linking phrases for Writing Task 2.
2.1 Introduction Phrases
English | Meaning |
|---|---|
It is often said that | People often say that |
It is clear that | Clearly |
As can be seen | Evidently |
In this day and age | Nowadays |
We live in an age when | Currently, in modern times |
... is one of the most important issues | A significant topic |
Agreeing with a statement:
There is no denying that
It is universally accepted that
I strongly agree with the given idea
Giving your opinion:
From my point of view
From my perspective
To my way of thinking
It seems to me that
My own view on the matter is
As far as I am concerned
2.2 Body Paragraph Transitions
Sequence connectors:
Firstly, Secondly
First and foremost
Initially
To begin with
Then, Next
Contrast connectors:
On the one hand – On the other hand
Other people believe that
Addition connectors:
Besides, In addition
Furthermore, Moreover
Likewise, Similarly
Apart from that
Example connectors:
For example, For instance
Such as
Particularly, Especially
To illustrate
A typical case
2.3 Conclusion Phrases
For opinion essays:
In conclusion
To sum up
To draw the conclusion
All things considered
For discussion essays:
Weighing up both sides of the argument
Taking everything into consideration
3. Tips for Learning Vocabulary Effectively
Your vocabulary can be divided into two types: Passive (words you recognize but don't use) and Active (words you understand and use correctly in speech and writing).
To communicate fluently, you must convert passive vocabulary into active vocabulary. Here are a few tips shared by IELTS test takers:
Learn through reading scripts or articles: Note unknown words, translate them, and reread to understand the context. This builds passive vocabulary.
Write new words down: Keep a notebook and review words regularly to reinforce memory.
Use vocabulary in real contexts: Practice by writing five different sentences using the new word. This helps activate your vocabulary.
In this guide, IDP has provided vocabulary and sample questions for IELTS Writing Task 2 by topic. While preparing for the IELTS exam, learn vocabulary thematically and focus on turning passive vocabulary into active usage. We hope to see you soon at your upcoming IELTS test with IDP.