Paraphrasing is the skill of expressing the same meaning as the original text, but using different words and sentence structures. In the context of IELTS Writing Task 2, paraphrasing is crucial for the introduction. It demonstrates your ability to use a range of vocabulary and grammar, and it avoids repeating the task question verbatim.
Paraphrasing is typically the first step in your essay introduction. It shows the examiner that you understand the question and can rephrase it in your own words, a key skill for achieving a higher band score in the “Lexical Resource” and “Grammatical Range and Accuracy” criteria.
Paraphrasing helps you:
If you copy the task question directly, the examiner will not count those words as your own, and you may lose marks for “Task Achievement” and “Lexical Resource.”
There are several techniques to paraphrase successfully:
Let’s break down each technique with examples.
One of the simplest ways to paraphrase is to replace keywords in the question with synonyms.
Task Question:
“Some people think that governments should spend more money on education than on recreation and sports.”
Paraphrased:
“Certain individuals believe that authorities ought to allocate a larger portion of their budget to educational services rather than to leisure activities and athletics.”
Tips:
You can paraphrase by changing the order of information or the grammatical structure.
Task Question:
“Many people believe that international tourism is bad for their country.”
Paraphrased:
“It is a common belief among many that their nation is negatively affected by foreign tourism.”
Tips:
Alter the form of words, such as changing a noun into a verb, or an adjective into a noun.
Task Question:
“Some people think that children should start learning a foreign language at primary school.”
Paraphrased:
“It is believed by some that foreign language education ought to begin in primary school.”
Tips:
Sometimes, you can paraphrase by combining two short sentences into one, or splitting a long sentence into two.
Task Question:
“Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others, however, believe there are better alternatives.”
Paraphrased (Combined):
“While some argue that extending prison terms is the most effective method to decrease crime, others contend that alternative solutions may be superior.”
Paraphrased (Split):
“Some people believe that increasing the length of prison sentences is the best way to lower crime rates. However, others think that there are more effective alternatives.”
Depending on the topic, you can generalize or specify information to paraphrase.
Task Question:
“Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money.”
Paraphrased (Generalized):
“Certain individuals think that people should come to terms with difficult circumstances, for example, dissatisfaction at work or financial hardship.”
1. Changing the Meaning:
Make sure your paraphrase accurately reflects the original meaning. Do not add or remove ideas.
2. Using Incorrect Synonyms:
Some words have multiple meanings. Always check that your synonym fits the context.
3. Overcomplicating the Sentence:
Complex sentences with too many clauses can be confusing. Keep your paraphrase clear and concise.
4. Copying Too Many Words:
If you use four or more words in a row from the task question, it may be considered copying.
Let’s practice paraphrasing step by step with a sample IELTS Writing Task 2 question.
Task Question:
“Some people believe that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, think that this would have little effect and other measures are required.”
Step 1: Identify Key Phrases to Paraphrase
Step 2: Find Synonyms and Alternative Structures
Step 3: Rewrite the Sentence
Paraphrased Introduction:
“Some argue that constructing additional sports centers is the most effective strategy for promoting public health, while others maintain that this approach may not yield significant results and that alternative interventions should be considered.”
After paraphrasing the question, you must state your position (opinion) clearly. This is known as the thesis statement. The thesis tells the examiner exactly what your answer is and what you will discuss in your essay.
Types of Positions:
1. To What Extent Do You Agree or Disagree?
Question:
“Do you agree or disagree with the statement that governments should spend more money on education than on sports?”
Sample Thesis Statements:
2. Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion
Question:
“Some believe that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, think that school is the place to learn this.”
Sample Thesis Statements:
3. Advantages and Disadvantages
Question:
“Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in a big city.”
Sample Thesis Statements:
A strong introduction for IELTS Writing Task 2 includes:
Example:
Task Question:
“Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes.”
Paraphrased Introduction:
“It is often argued that volunteering without payment should be mandated in secondary school curricula.”
Thesis Statement:
“I support this idea as it would benefit both students and society as a whole.”
Full Introduction:
“It is often argued that volunteering without payment should be mandated in secondary school curricula. I support this idea as it would benefit both students and society as a whole.”
1. Technology
Task Question:
“Some people think that the internet has brought people closer together, while others think that people and communities have become more isolated.”
Paraphrased Introduction:
“There is ongoing debate over whether the internet fosters greater connection among individuals or leads to increased isolation within communities.”
Thesis Statement:
“In my view, although the internet offers tools for communication, it can also contribute to social isolation.”
2. Environment
Task Question:
“Many people believe that global environmental problems should be dealt with internationally rather than domestically.”
Paraphrased Introduction:
“It is widely believed that addressing global environmental issues requires international cooperation, rather than relying solely on national efforts.”
Thesis Statement:
“I agree that international collaboration is essential for effectively tackling environmental challenges.”
3. Education
Task Question:
“Some people think that children should start school at a very early age, while others believe they should begin at least seven years old.”
Paraphrased Introduction:
“There is considerable disagreement regarding the optimal age for children to commence formal education, with some advocating for an earlier start and others preferring a later beginning.”
Thesis Statement:
“I believe that starting school at a later age is more beneficial for children’s development.”
Activity 1: Paraphrasing Practice
Instructions: Paraphrase the following IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.
Sample Answers:
Activity 2: Writing a Thesis Statement
Instructions: Write a thesis statement for each paraphrased question above.
Sample Answers:
Activity 3: Combine Paraphrasing and Thesis
Instructions: Write a full introduction (paraphrased question + thesis) for the following prompt:
Prompt:
“Some people think that parents should limit the hours children spend watching TV and playing computer games.”
Sample Answer:
“It is often argued that parents ought to restrict the amount of time their children devote to watching television and engaging in video games. I agree with this view, as excessive screen time can negatively affect children’s health and academic performance.”
Q1: Can I use the same structure for every introduction?
Yes, using a consistent structure is fine as long as you paraphrase the question and present a clear thesis. However, try to vary your vocabulary and sentence structure for higher band scores.
Q2: How long should my introduction be?
Your introduction should be 2-4 sentences: one or two for paraphrasing/background, and one for your thesis. Aim for 40-60 words.
Q3: What if I can’t find synonyms for some words?
Focus on rephrasing the overall sentence structure. Not every word needs a synonym. Use relative clauses, passive voice, or change the order of information.
Q4: Should I always give my opinion in the introduction?
For “agree/disagree” or “opinion” essays, yes. For “discuss both views” essays, you can mention your opinion in the introduction or leave it for the conclusion, but stating it early is clearer.
Mistake 1: Using the same words as the task
Fix: Use a thesaurus or practice with synonym lists, but always check the meaning.
Mistake 2: Making the thesis unclear
Fix: State your position directly. Avoid vague statements.
Mistake 3: Writing a very long introduction
Fix: Stick to paraphrasing and thesis only. Save supporting arguments for the body paragraphs.
Mistake 4: Changing the meaning
Fix: Double-check that your paraphrase matches the original intent of the question.
Model 1:
Task Question:
“Some people think that public transport should be free for everyone.”
Introduction:
“It is argued by some that all individuals ought to have access to public transportation without charge. I support this viewpoint, as it would encourage greater use of public transit and reduce traffic congestion.”
Model 2:
Task Question:
“Many people believe that university education should be free for all students.”
Introduction:
“There is a widespread belief that higher education ought to be provided at no cost for all learners. In my opinion, making university education free would promote equality and benefit society as a whole.”
| Task Question | Paraphrased Sentence | Thesis Statement |
|---|---|---|
| Some people believe that advertising is useful for society. | It is thought by some that advertisements play a beneficial role in society. | I agree that advertising is valuable, as it informs consumers and stimulates economic growth. |
| Some people think that the government should ban dangerous sports. | Certain individuals argue that authorities ought to prohibit high-risk sports. | I disagree, as these activities offer personal and social benefits when regulated properly. |
Paraphrasing the task and stating your position are foundational skills for IELTS Writing Task 2. By mastering these techniques, you ensure that your introductions are original, relevant, and clear. This not only boosts your score for “Task Achievement” and “Lexical Resource” but also sets a strong tone for the rest of your essay.
Regular practice, attention to meaning, and a focus on clarity will help you develop these skills. Review sample introductions, complete practice activities, and use the self-assessment checklist to monitor your progress. With dedication, you will be able to write introductions that impress the examiner and lay the groundwork for a high-scoring essay.