Ielts Test

Introduction

What? The introduction contains a restatement of the topic with some examples to develop the idea, and a thesis statement.

Where? The introduction is the first paragraph of your essay.

Why? The introduction gives the reader a general idea of what to expect in the essay. It also stimulates the reader’s interest in the topic (the reader feels interested and wants to read on). Therefore, it is very important that the introduction is well constructed.

Thesis Statement

What? A thesis statement is a sentence in which the writer lets the reader see the main organisation of the essay.

Where? The thesis statement is usually the last sentence of the first paragraph (also referred to as the Introduction).

Why? The thesis statement is the most important sentence in the essay. It links the introduction to the main body and each paragraph in the body links back to the thesis statement.

Example 1

Introduction

Many people in Western countries have pets, and the most popular pets are cats and dogs. In my opinion, dogs are better pets than cats for two main reasons.

Body paragraph 1

The first reason is that dogs are friendlier than cats. (Examples, reasons, ...)

Body paragraph 2

Secondly dogs are generally more intelligent than cats. (Examples, reasons...)

Conclusion

In conclusion, having a dog as a pet has more benefits than having a cat. In general dogs are likeable and pleasant and they are able to understand and learn quickly. This is not always true of cats.

Example 2

Introduction

Nowadays, most families own a home computer and children tend to spend a lot of time in front of their P.C. There are both advantages and disadvantages to this new phenomenon of extensive computer use by children.

Body paragraph 1

The advantages are that children can learn many new things. (examples, reasons).

Body paragraph 2

However, if young children use the computer for too long, this may create some problems for them. (examples, reasons...