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Information

Lesson summary:

Episode: 6

In this lesson, the teacher introduces students to an IELTS question on "Discuss the benefits and drawbacks."

Important information:

Miscellaneous

  • Writing must only be submitted by email with your student ID Number to thinkincafekk@gmail.com.

  • Students should download the recommended books.

Essential Points

In an essay that discusses the benefits and drawbacks of a particular topic, it's crucial to use a range of grammatical structures and vocabulary to express your ideas clearly and coherently. I have put together a brief guide below for this type of essay:

 

Grammar Structures:

  1. Introduction:

    • Use a variety of sentence types: simple, compound, or complex.

    • Include a clear thesis statement outlining your position on the topic.

    Example: "In the modern era, technology has brought about significant changes, offering both advantages and disadvantages that need careful consideration."

  2. Body Paragraphs:

    • Topic Sentences:

      • Clearly state the main point of each paragraph.

    • Supporting Details:

      • Use a mix of simple and complex sentences to provide specific details.

    • Comparisons and Contrasts:

      • Employ comparative structures (e.g., "while," "although," "however") to highlight differences.

    • Cause and Effect:

      • Use causal connectors (e.g., "because," "due to," "resulting in") to explain reasons and consequences.

      • Example: "One of the benefits of technological advancement is the ease of communication, as people can connect instantly across the globe. However, this increased connectivity has led to concerns about privacy and security."

  3. Conclusion:

    • Summarize the main points.

    • Restate your position or offer a final thought.

    • Example: "In conclusion, while technology has undeniably improved various aspects of our lives, it is crucial to weigh the benefits against the drawbacks and find a balance that ensures a positive impact on society."

 

Vocabulary:

  1. Introducing Ideas:

    • Positive Aspects:

      • advantages, benefits, positive impacts, strengths.

    • Negative Aspects:

      • drawbacks, disadvantages, challenges, negative impacts.

  2. Expressing Agreement:

    • Positive Aspects:

      • advantageous, beneficial, favorable, advantageous.

    • Negative Aspects:

      • detrimental, harmful, adverse, unfavorable.

  3. Adding Information:

    • Positive Aspects:

      • in addition, furthermore, moreover, additionally.

    • Negative Aspects:

      • on the other hand, conversely, nevertheless, nonetheless.

  4. Expressing Cause and Effect:

    • Positive Aspects:

      • as a result, consequently, therefore, thus.

    • Negative Aspects:

      • due to, because of, leads to, results in.

  5. Providing Examples:

    • Positive Aspects:

      • for example, for instance, such as.

    • Negative Aspects:

      • to illustrate, to demonstrate, specifically.

  6. Contrasting Ideas:

    • Positive Aspects:

      • while, although, however, despite.

    • Negative Aspects:

      • in contrast, on the contrary, yet.

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Sample Sentence:

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"While the implementation of renewable energy sources has undeniable environmental benefits, such as reducing carbon emissions and dependence on fossil fuels, the high initial costs and intermittent nature of some renewable technologies pose significant drawbacks that need careful consideration."

Try this exercise!

Students should complete the IELTS Foundation Study Skills Writing Task Two chapter by downloading the file below and then submitting your written response to the teacher by email at thinkincafekk@gmail.com with your Student ID Number. There is no deadline - you can complete the activities at anytime during the course.

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