Writing

Task 2 — Opinion (Agree / Disagree)

Answer "to what extent do you agree" — argue your position.

FREQUENCY · CAMBRIDGE 10–20 (RECENT 17–20 HIGHLIGHTED)

19 total appearances · 9 in books 17–20.

TIME BUDGET

40 min for Task 2: 5 min plan, 30 min write, 5 min check

Example — what it looks like

TRY IT

Task 2 opinion essays ask 'To what extent do you agree?' Pick the strongest thesis statement.

Prompt: 'Some argue that governments should spend more on art and culture than on defence. To what extent do you agree?'

Which thesis statement is best for a Band 7+ essay?

A — 'I think both are important.'B — 'I largely agree because cultural spending generates long-term social and economic returns that defence budgets do not deliver, although a minimum level of defence remains essential.'C — 'Yes I agree because art is good.'D — 'This essay will discuss arts and defence and give a conclusion.'

Tactics

Opinion essays ask 'To what extent do you agree or disagree?' or 'Do you agree or disagree?' Choose ONE clear position and defend it consistently. Avoid sitting on the fence unless you take a 'partial agreement' stance—but make that position explicit. Use a 4-paragraph structure: Introduction, Body 1, Body 2, Conclusion. Introduction (40–50 words): paraphrase the prompt, state your thesis clearly.

Templates: 'It is often argued that... While there is some merit to this view, I firmly believe that...' / 'I completely agree with this statement for two main reasons, which will be discussed below.' State your degree of agreement: 'completely agree,' 'largely agree,' 'partially agree,' 'strongly disagree.' Body 1 (90–100 words): present your strongest argument supporting your position. Use a topic sentence, then explain, then give a specific example. Template: 'The primary reason I hold this view is that...

For instance,...' Body 2 (90–100 words): present your second argument, ideally addressing a different angle (economic, social, environmental, individual vs societal). You may also concede a counterpoint and refute it: 'While some argue that..., this overlooks the fact that...' Conclusion (30–40 words): restate your opinion in different words and summarize the two reasons. Template: 'In conclusion, although [counterargument], I am convinced that... because [reason 1] and [reason 2].' Opinion phrases: 'In my view,' 'I firmly believe,' 'It is my conviction that,' 'From my perspective,' 'I am of the opinion that.' Avoid weak phrases like 'I think' or 'maybe.' Linking devices: 'Firstly,' 'Furthermore,' 'Moreover,' 'In addition,' 'However,' 'Nevertheless,' 'On the other hand,' 'Consequently,' 'As a result,' 'Therefore.' Use specific examples (real or plausible)—statistics, named studies, countries, historical events. Maintain a formal academic register: no contractions, no slang, no rhetorical questions.

Aim for 270–290 words.

How it's scored

Task Response: examiner checks that you address all parts of the prompt, present a clear position throughout, develop your ideas with relevant reasons and examples, and maintain consistency from intro to conclusion. Vague or shifting positions cap you at Band 5–6. Coherence & Cohesion: paragraphs must be clearly defined with one central idea each, supported by topic sentences. Linking devices should connect ideas naturally without overuse. Lexical Resource: opinion vocabulary, topic-specific terms (depending on the subject—education, environment, technology), and collocations are rewarded. Avoid repetition. Grammatical Range & Accuracy: use complex sentences with subordinate clauses, conditionals ('If... were..., would...'), and a mix of tenses. Accurate articles, prepositions, and subject-verb agreement are essential for Band 7+.