Module 2 · Speaking & Writing part

Writing

Two task types with fixed time limits per question. Writing is also fed heavily by Listening tasks (Write From Dictation and Summarize Spoken Text), so a strong Writing score is built across the whole exam.

01

Summarize Written Text

Scores: Writing + Reading
  • 2 questions
  • 10 min each
  • Passage ~300 words
  • Response: one sentence

Read a passage of around 300 words and compress it into a single grammatical sentence. The on-screen word counter tracks your length. Your response is judged on writing quality and how well it captures the key points.

📋 One-sentence summary frame

The passage outlines (main idea), explaining that (point 1 or background), and further illustrating (point 2 or supporting detail), while concluding that (final outcome or conclusion).

✅ Strategy

  • Find the main idea in the first and last paragraphs, then pick 1–2 supporting details.
  • It must be exactly one sentence — connect ideas with commas and conjunctions, never a full stop.
  • Leave 1–2 minutes to check grammar and spelling; both are scored.
02

Essay

Scores: Writing
  • 1–2 questions
  • 15 marks each
  • 20 min per essay

There are five essay types, and one framework can flex to serve all of them:

Agree / Disagree

Take a position and defend it with two developed reasons.

Problems / Solutions

Diagnose the issues, then propose realistic fixes.

Advantages / Disadvantages

Weigh both sides before a balanced conclusion.

Causes / Effects

Explain why something happens and what follows.

Mixed questions

Combinations of the above — answer every part asked.

📋 Four-paragraph essay framework

Introduction. The increasing influence of (essay topic) on our lives has ignited numerous discussions. This matter is particularly significant due to its impact on (area affected). In this essay, I will examine the (advantages and disadvantages / causes and effects / problems and solutions) of (essay topic) and their implications for society.

Body 1. One of the (primary advantages / main causes / major problems) of (topic) is (point 1), supported by (further explanation). Research has demonstrated that (topic keywords) (improves / causes / leads to) (result). Moreover, an additional (benefit / cause / problem) is (point 2).

Body 2. However, alongside the benefits there are drawbacks. One significant (drawback / effect / solution) is (point 1); numerous studies indicate it may lead to (explanation). Furthermore, (point 2) impacts both individuals and society.

Conclusion. To conclude, (topic) offers notable (benefits / causes / problems) as well as significant (challenges / effects / solutions). Future efforts should focus on a balanced approach, maximizing positive impacts while minimizing adverse effects.

⚠️ Vocabulary range is scored

Do not repeat the same topic words again and again. Swap in synonyms and different keywords from the essay statement each time you refer to the topic — general linguistic range alone is worth 6 of the essay's marks.

Worked example

For the prompt "Discuss the impact of modern communication technology on society, highlighting both the advantages and disadvantages", the framework fills in with: instant global connection and support for remote work and learning as the advantages; reduced face-to-face contact, social isolation, and the spread of misinformation as the drawbacks; and a conclusion calling for balanced use of digital tools.

Writing scoring criteria

Summarize Written TextContentFormGrammarVocabulary
Max trait score4122
Write EssayContentFormDevelopment, structure & coherenceGrammarGeneral linguistic rangeVocabulary rangeSpelling
Max trait score6162622

Note the two 6-point traits beyond content: development, structure and coherence and general linguistic range. Structure and varied language are worth as much as what you say.