how to write a band 9 ielts essay

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IELTS essay samples for band 9

Find IELTS essay examples, crafted to help you understand the nuances of Task 2 and achieve a Band 9 score. From structure to samples, we've got you covered.

Are you aiming for excellence in your IELTS Writing ? Essays with a band 9 are identified by their excellent consistency, sophisticated language, and perfect grammar. These essays effectively address the task with well-developed arguments and a clear structure, showcasing a deep understanding of the topic.

Whether you're a beginner looking to improve or an experienced test-taker seeking that extra edge, this guide will provide you with IELTS essay samples and examples to help you achieve a band 9 in your IELTS test . So, let's delve into the world of high-scoring essays and discover how to take your writing prowess to new heights!

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Step by step guide for scoring a band 9 in IELTS Essay task

Here’s a step-by-step guide to scoring well on IELTS Essay Task 2:

Understand the task requirements : Read the prompt carefully to understand what’s being asked. Determine whether you need to write an opinion, discussion, or problem-solution essay. Note any specific instructions, word limits, or key points you need to address.

Plan and organize your ideas : Spend a few minutes brainstorming and generating ideas related to the task. Create a clear outline, including an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. Organize your ideas logically and choose the main points for each paragraph.

Write an engaging introduction : Start with an interesting opening to capture the reader’s attention. Provide background information on the topic and clearly state your thesis or main argument, which will guide the rest of your essay.

Develop coherent body paragraphs : Begin each body paragraph with a topic sentence that introduces the main idea. Support your points with relevant examples, facts, or evidence. Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs to maintain coherence and flow.

Showcase language skills and vocabulary : Use a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Express your ideas clearly and accurately and use cohesive devices like linking words to connect your ideas.

Conclude effectively : Summarize the key points from the body paragraphs in your conclusion. Restate your thesis and provide a clear closing statement. End with a memorable thought or a thought-provoking question.

Revise and edit : Set aside time to review your essay for grammatical errors, spelling mistakes, or typos. Check for coherence and clarity and make necessary revisions to enhance the overall quality.

Practice time management : Allocate time wisely for each task (Task 1 and Task 2).

Practice writing essays within the time limit to improve speed and efficiency. Monitor your progress and adjust your writing speed as needed.

Seek feedback and improve : Share your essays with a teacher, tutor, or native English speaker for feedback. Identify areas for improvement and focus on refining those skills. Regularly practice building confidence and improve your technique.

By following these steps and practising consistently, you can enhance your performance in IELTS Writing Task 2 and work towards achieving your desired band score.

IELTS essay samples for achieving a band score of 9

Below are several IELTS essay samples that exemplify the high language proficiency required for a band score of 9. These samples can provide valuable insights into the standards needed for top scores. Please remember that these are for reference purposes only and should not be copied directly.

Latest IELTS essay examples

Ielts essay writing sample: advantages and disadvantages of technology in education.

Introduction : In recent times, technology has significantly impacted the education sector, bringing both advantages and challenges. This essay will explore the benefits and drawbacks of integrating technology into education and will argue that the positive aspects outweigh the negatives.

Body Paragraph 1 (Advantages) : A key benefit of technology in education is the expansion of learning opportunities. Interactive multimedia tools enable students to access a broad range of information and resources, facilitating a deeper understanding of complex topics. Technology also enhances student engagement and supports active learning through personalized and interactive teaching methods.

Body Paragraph 2 (Disadvantages) : Despite these benefits, using technology in education has some drawbacks. For example, excessive dependence on technology may reduce face-to-face interactions and impede the development of important social skills. Additionally, the presence of inaccurate or biased information online can challenge the reliability and accuracy of academic sources.

Body Paragraph 3 (Benefits Outweigh Drawbacks) : Nevertheless, the advantages of technology in education far surpass its drawbacks. Integrating technology helps bridge traditional teaching with the digital era, equipping students with the skills required for careers dependent on technological proficiency. Technology also supports distance learning, reaching students in remote areas or those with limited access to educational resources.

Conclusion : To sum up, technology has revolutionized education by enhancing learning opportunities and fostering student engagement. Although there are some disadvantages, the benefits of integrating technology into education outweighs the drawbacks. Educators should maintain balance between traditional methods with technological tools to optimize the effectiveness of both.

IELTS essay Writing sample: The impact of global warming on the environment

Introduction : Global warming, primarily driven by human activities, is a major issue with extensive environmental consequences. This essay will show its effects on the environment and argue that immediate action is necessary to address its harmful impacts.

Body Paragraph 1 (Temperature Increase) : One major effect of global warming is the global rise in temperatures. This increase contributes to the melting of polar ice caps and glaciers, which leads to rising sea levels and more frequent extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and heat waves. Additionally, higher temperatures disrupt ecosystems, threatening various plant and animal species.

Body Paragraph 2 (Biodiversity Loss) : Global warming also poses a serious threat to biodiversity. As temperatures rise, many species face difficulties adapting or migrating to suitable habitats, leading to their decline or extinction. The resulting loss of biodiversity undermines ecosystem stability, as each species plays an important role in maintaining ecological balance.

Body Paragraph 3 (Environmental Degradation) : Another impact of global warming is environmental degradation. Rising temperatures contribute to ocean acidification, which damages coral reefs and marine ecosystems. Furthermore, increased carbon dioxide levels create oceanic dead zones, harming marine life. Deforestation, driven by the need for resources and agricultural land, worsens global warming by decreasing the Earth’s ability to absorb carbon dioxide.

Concluding Paragraph: To conclude, global warming has significant effects on the environment, including temperature rise, biodiversity loss, and environmental degradation. Urgent and collective action is required to combat this issue, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions, adopting sustainable practices, and protecting natural habitats. Through concerted efforts, we can mitigate the effects of global warming and safeguard our planet for future generations.

These IELTS essay samples illustrate the structure, vocabulary, and coherence needed to achieve a band 9 score. Practice writing within the time limits of the IELTS test (40 minutes for the writing section) to enhance your skills.

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35 Sample Band 9 IELTS Essays

Take a look at these 35 sample Band 9 IELTS essays for writing task 2 of the IELTS exam . Task 2 can cover a wide range of essay topics for the IELTS writing task section of the test, so preparation is key. Use the following samples when preparing your IELTS essays to see how close you are to a band 9!

These IELTS band 9 essay samples will help you highlight your mistakes and improve your writing band 9 level.

See the below IELTS essay writing sample questions and answers to practice for your IELTS writing task 2 .

You will find the IELTS essay questions and answers categorised by the following essay types.

Do you agree/disagree
Discuss both views and give your opinion
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages
Discuss the problems and possible solutions
Is this a positive or a negative development

For a FREE ebook of our top 10 IELTS Band 9 essay samples in PDF, click here!

1. agree or disagree .

Some people believe that technology has made man more social. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Some people think that a person improves their intellectual skills more when doing group activities. To what extent do you agree? Use specific details and examples to explain your view.
In some countries, the number of shootings increase because many people have guns at home. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Some people believe that international sporting events are the ideal opportunity to show the world the qualities of the hosting nation. Others believe that these events are mainly a large unjustifiable expense. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Crime is a big problem in the world; many believe that nothing can be done to prevent it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your own opinion.
Doing an enjoyable activity with a child can develop better skills and more creativity than reading. To what extent do you agree? Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer.
Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for the development of poorer nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the poorer nations in such areas. To what extent do you agree?
Advances in health and biology and other areas of society in the last 100 years have transformed the way we live as well as postponing the day we die. There is no better time to be alive than now. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
The world is consuming natural resources faster than they can be renewed. Therefore, it is important that products are made to last. Governments should discourage people from constantly buying more up-to-date or fashionable products. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
Some people believe that children’s leisure activities must be educational, otherwise, they are a complete waste of time. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your experience.
Many governments in the world spend large amounts of money on art, which helps to improve the quality of people’s lives. However, governments should spend money on other things rather than art. Do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion.

2. Discuss both views and give your point of view?

NEW SEPTEMBER 2022: Some people believe that professionals such as doctors and engineers should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Nowadays most green energy is becoming evermore prevalent in both developed and developing countries. Some argue they greatly reduce costs and are better for the environment, others believe they are a serious threat to energy security. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people are of the opinion that children should be rewarded for good behaviour. Others think they should be punished for bad behaviour. Discuss both views and give your personal opinion and reasons.
Some people think that keeping pets is good for children while others think it is dangerous and unhealthy. Which opinion do you agree with? Discuss both options and give examples .
Some people think that secondary school children should study international news as one of the school subjects. Other people think that it is a waste of valuable school time. What do you think? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Some products can be made quickly by a machine. Other items take a long time to be made by hand. As a buyer, which do you prefer and why? Give specific details and examples in your answer.
Some people think women should be given equal chances to work and excel in their careers. Others believe that a woman’s role should be limited to taking care of the house and children. Which opinion do you agree with and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.
Most schools are planning to replace sports and exercise classes with more academic sessions. How will this change affect children’s lives in your view?
Some people think that schools have to be more entertaining, while others think that their sole purpose is to educate. Which do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.
Some people think that it is acceptable to use animals in medical research for the benefit of human beings, while other people argue that it is wrong.
Should humans adapt to technology or should technology be adapted to us? Is technology making us intellectually weaker or more intelligent?
Do copyright laws limit creativity or reward it? Would society function better without such rules and regulations?
Should education and healthcare be free of charge and funded by the government, or should it be the responsibility of the people to pay for these services? Discuss the above and give your opinion using examples.

3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages

Is it good for children to start using computers from an early age and spend long hours on them? Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
Some people think high school graduates should travel or work for a period of time instead of going directly to study at university. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both approaches. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

4. Two questions, for example: Why is this happening? Is this a positive or negative development?

These days some people spend a lot of money on tickets to go to sporting or events. Do you think this is a positive or negative development ?
Some people like to travel outside their country. Others would rather travel to tourist spots in their own country first, before travelling abroad. Which do you prefer to do and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.
Women can do everything that men can and they even do it better. They also can do many things that men cannot. But it is a fact that their work is not appreciated as much as men’s, although they have to sacrifice a lot for their family and career… It is said: “A woman’s place is in the home.” What do you think?

5. Discuss the problems and possible solutions OR discuss the causes and what problems it causes?

People are using a lot of online language translation apps. Do the benefits of this outweigh the disadvantages?
Obesity is a serious problem in many countries, especially in rich countries. Discuss ways to solve the problem. Provide specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Today, the quality of life in large cities is decreasing. Discuss the causes and solutions.
Research shows that global warming is caused by human activity. What are the possible effects of climate change and what can governments and individuals do to reduce these?
In many countries, recently young single people have been living far from their parents, from the time they began studies or work and until they married. Do you think there are more advantages or disadvantages to this trend?
Traditional schooling is out of date, boring and stifles a child’s natural talents, various professionals have pushed for an education revolution. Are there alternatives in the education system? Is traditional education doing more harm than good?

Take a look at some of our writing tasks to help you prepare for your IELTS exam , and if you need more help, we have a course that is guaranteed to help you pass IELTS. Practicing IELTS writing task 2 essays is very important for your exam preparation.

Video: IELTS Band 9 Writing Sample – Body Paragraphs

Click here for a FREE ebook of our top 10 IELTS Band 9 samples for writing task 2 in PDF,

For more preparation, take a look at our latest tutorials:.

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Sample Answers: discuss the advantages and disadvantages
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For a FREE ebook of our top 10 sample essays, click here!

Enhance Your Essays with Our Efficient Online IELTS Essay Checker

Practicing for IELTS Writing Task 2? You’re in the right place. But after you practice, how can you know if your essay is good? We have a tool to help! It’s called the online IELTS essay checker .

You can find it here . This tool is very easy to use. You write your essay, and our tool checks it. It tells you what mistakes you made and how to fix them. This means you can learn and get better faster. The best part? You save money.

Many students pay a lot for IELTS classes or teachers to check their essays. But our online IELTS essay checker is cheaper and works fast. You don’t have to wait! So, after you read the sample essays on this page, use our online IELTS essay checker .

It can help you see where you can do better. And it’s a good way to get ready for the IELTS exam without spending a lot of money. So, if you want to write better essays and save money, try our online IELTS essay checker .

We made it for students like you. We hope it helps you get the score you want.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to score band 9 in ielts writing.

You can score band 9 in IELTS writing by following these steps:

Make sure you understand the question and answer what is being asked.
Plan out your essay before you start writing
Write your essay, review it and then “rewrite” it .
Get feedback on your essays and find out where you may be losing points.
Improve your language skills.

Read this post for more tips.

How do you write a 9 band essay?

Practice each essay type and be clear about the criteria for a perfect score. Basically, you need clear formal paragraphing, an essay that ‘flows’ logically and stays focused on the question, which is answered fully with high-level vocabulary and near-perfect grammar.

How can I get 9 in IELTS writing?

Look at model answers and memorize phrases that work for most essays – ‘In the modern world’ is a great way to start. A focus on global issues and international examples rounds out your answer and practice timed essays before the test.

Can you get 10 in IELTS?

No, the top band score is a 9. Be realistic though, some of the best universities in the world require a band 7 or 7.5 for their most challenging courses so a perfect score isn’t necessary in most situations.

How to Achieve Band 9 in IELTS Writing: Expert Strategies and Tips

Written by: IELTS Mentor

Published on: August 24, 2024

Are you aiming for excellence in your IELTS Writing test? Achieving a Band 9 score is the ultimate goal for many test-takers, and while it may seem challenging, it’s certainly not impossible. This comprehensive guide will provide you with expert strategies and tips to help you reach that coveted Band 9 in IELTS Writing.

Understanding Band 9 in IELTS Writing

Before diving into the strategies, it’s crucial to understand what a Band 9 score represents in IELTS Writing. According to the official IELTS band descriptors, a Band 9 writer:

Fully addresses all parts of the task
Presents a fully developed position with relevant, fully extended and well-supported ideas
Uses cohesion in such a way that it attracts no attention
Skilfully uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy

Now that we have a clear understanding of the target, let’s explore how to achieve it.

IELTS Writing Band 9 Score

Strategies for Task Achievement

1. thoroughly analyze the question.

The first step towards a Band 9 score is to fully understand the task at hand. Spend a few minutes dissecting the question to ensure you address all parts of it in your response.

Example: Question: “Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

Topic: Unpaid community service in high school programs
Task: Express your opinion (agree/disagree) and explain why
Key points to address: Benefits/drawbacks of compulsory community service, impact on students and society

2. Plan Your Response

Develop a clear and logical structure for your essay. A well-organized response is crucial for achieving a high score.

Example outline for the above question:

Introduction: State your position
Body Paragraph 1: First main reason for your position
Body Paragraph 2: Second main reason for your position
Body Paragraph 3: Counterargument and rebuttal
Conclusion: Restate your position and summarize main points

3. Provide Relevant Examples and Evidence

Support your arguments with specific examples, data, or personal experiences to make your writing more convincing and score higher on task achievement.

Example: “A study by the University of Michigan found that high school students who participated in community service showed improved academic performance and increased civic engagement in adulthood.”

Mastering Coherence and Cohesion

1. use a variety of cohesive devices.

Employ a range of linking words and phrases to connect your ideas smoothly. However, use them judiciously to maintain a natural flow.

Examples of sophisticated cohesive devices:

Furthermore
Nevertheless
Consequently
In light of
Notwithstanding

2. Maintain Clear Paragraphing

Each paragraph should focus on a single main idea and smoothly transition to the next. Use topic sentences to guide your reader through your argument.

Example of a clear topic sentence: “The primary benefit of mandatory community service lies in its potential to foster a sense of social responsibility among young people.”

3. Ensure Logical Progression of Ideas

Your essay should flow logically from one point to the next, creating a coherent and persuasive argument.

IELTS Writing Coherence

Expanding Lexical Resource

1. use advanced vocabulary accurately.

Incorporate sophisticated vocabulary naturally into your writing. However, accuracy is key – only use words you’re confident about.

Example: Instead of “The government should make community service mandatory,” try: “The authorities should implement compulsory community service as an integral component of the educational curriculum.”

2. Employ Collocations and Idiomatic Expressions

Natural use of collocations and idiomatic expressions can significantly enhance your lexical resource score.

“To reap the benefits”
“A double-edged sword”
“To strike a balance”

3. Avoid Repetition

Use synonyms and paraphrasing to avoid repeating the same words or phrases throughout your essay.

Example: Instead of repeatedly using “important,” consider alternatives like “crucial,” “vital,” “essential,” or “paramount.”

Demonstrating Grammatical Range and Accuracy

1. use a variety of complex structures.

Incorporate a mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences. Use advanced structures like inversion, cleft sentences, and participle clauses.

Example of a cleft sentence: “It is through hands-on experience in community service that students develop a genuine understanding of civic responsibility.”

2. Maintain Grammatical Accuracy

While using complex structures is important, accuracy is paramount. Proofread your essay carefully to eliminate any grammatical errors.

3. Master Punctuation

Correct use of a wide range of punctuation marks, including semicolons, colons, and dashes, can elevate your writing to Band 9 level.

Example: “Community service offers numerous benefits: it enhances empathy, develops practical skills, and fosters a sense of civic duty.”

Practice and Feedback

1. regular timed practice.

Simulate test conditions by writing essays within the 40-minute time limit regularly. This will help you manage your time effectively during the actual test.

2. Seek Expert Feedback

Have your essays reviewed by IELTS experts or experienced teachers. Their feedback can help you identify areas for improvement and refine your writing skills.

3. Analyze High-Scoring Sample Essays

Study Band 9 sample essays to understand the level of writing expected. Pay attention to how they address the task, structure their arguments, and use language.

Achieving a Band 9 in IELTS Writing requires dedication, practice, and a deep understanding of the assessment criteria. By focusing on task achievement, coherence and cohesion, lexical resource, and grammatical range and accuracy, you can significantly improve your writing skills. Remember, the key to success lies in consistent practice and thoughtful application of these strategies.

Are you ready to take your IELTS Writing to the next level? Start implementing these tips in your practice essays today, and watch your scores improve. Don’t forget to share your experiences or ask questions in the comments below. Good luck with your IELTS journey!