What you need to know
Word count: At least 250 words. Don't exceed the limit by a large margin — focus on quality over quantity.
Time: 40 minutes. Task 2 is worth double Task 1, so allocate your time accordingly.
Format: A discursive essay responding to a point of view, argument, or problem. Both Academic and General Training candidates sit the same Task 2.
Agree / Disagree
Express your agreement or disagreement with a statement and support your position with clear reasons and examples.
Advantages & Disadvantages
Discuss the pros and cons of a specific situation, trend, or topic — sometimes also asking for your own view.
Discussion (Opinion)
Present both sides of an issue and then give your own opinion. A balanced discussion followed by a clear conclusion.
Problem & Solution
Identify the causes or nature of a problem and suggest practical, well-explained solutions.
Two-Part Question
Two related questions that must both be addressed in full. Use the 50/50 rule — one full body paragraph per question — to ensure you cover both equally.
Assessment Criteria
Task Response
How fully and accurately you address all parts of the prompt and present a clear position.
Coherence & Cohesion
The organisation of your essay — logical flow, paragraphing, and effective use of linking language.
Lexical Resource
The range, accuracy, and appropriateness of your vocabulary choices throughout.
Grammatical Range & Accuracy
Variety of sentence structures and the accuracy of your grammar throughout the essay.
7 key tips
Understand the prompt. Read carefully and identify the essay type before you write a single word.
Plan before you write. Spend 3–5 minutes planning your structure. A clear plan leads to a more coherent, focused essay.
Support with examples. Every main point should be backed with a specific example or piece of evidence.
Stay focused. Stick to the topic. Going off on tangents wastes words and lowers your Task Response score.
Use paragraphs. Each body paragraph should have one clear idea with a topic sentence, development, and example.
Vary your sentence structure. Mix simple, compound, and complex sentences for a higher Grammatical Range score.
Proofread. Reserve 2–3 minutes at the end to check for spelling, grammar, and punctuation errors.