📖 Introduction

One of the key skills in IELTS Writing Task 2 is paragraphing. A clear and well-structured paragraph not only helps you organize your ideas but also improves your Coherence and Cohesion score.

A strong paragraph usually contains:

• A topic sentence (the main point of the paragraph)

• A controlling idea (the direction or opinion about the topic)

• Supporting sentences (examples, reasons, or evidence)

This lesson will guide you through writing a focused paragraph based on the structure: One paragraph = One topic + one controlling idea.

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🔍 Understanding the Topic Sentence

The topic sentence is the first sentence in a paragraph. It introduces the subject of the paragraph and gives the reader a clear idea of what to expect.

📓 Example:

Topic sentence: Public transport is essential in reducing traffic congestion.
Explanation: The topic is "public transport," and the controlling idea is "essential in reducing traffic congestion."

Everything that follows in the paragraph should support this idea.

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✅ Structure of a Paragraph

1. Topic sentence – Introduce the idea

2. Explanation or reason – Give more detail

3. Example – Real-world or hypothetical

4. Linking sentence – Connect to the next idea (optional)

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🔗 Useful Linking Words

To make your writing flow, use linking words or cohesive devices. Here are some grouped by function:

1. Addition:

• Furthermore

• Moreover

• In addition

• Also

Example: Public transport helps reduce emissions. Moreover, it is more affordable than private vehicles.

2. Contrast:

• However

• On the other hand

• Although

• Nevertheless

Example: Cars offer more freedom. However, they contribute to pollution.

3. Examples:

• For example

• For instance

• Such as

• To illustrate

Example: Many cities, such as Tokyo and London, rely heavily on public transport systems.

4. Sequence/Order:

• Firstly / Secondly / Finally

• Then / Next

• To begin with

Example: Firstly, investing in buses and trains encourages people to stop using their cars.

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📒 Sample Paragraph (Band 7+ Style)

Topic sentence: Online education has become increasingly popular due to its flexibility.

Support: Many students can now study from home and manage their own time.

Example: For example, working professionals can attend university courses without quitting their jobs.

Link: This convenience makes online education a preferred choice for many.

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✍️ Practice Questions (1–15)

Instructions: Read each paragraph topic. Choose the best controlling idea and complete the topic sentence.

Part A: Choose the best controlling idea (1–5)

1. Topic: Fast food
   a) is tasty
   b) is unhealthy if consumed regularly
   c) comes in different varieties

2. Topic: Learning a foreign language
   a) is a hobby
   b) is difficult at first
   c) improves career opportunities

3. Topic: Social media
   a) connects people worldwide
   b) is a type of technology
   c) is available on phones

4. Topic: Renewable energy
   a) includes wind and solar
   b) is better for the environment
   c) needs investment

5. Topic: Reading books
   a) is popular among students
   b) helps improve language skills
   c) has many genres

Part B: Complete the topic sentence using a controlling idea (6–10)

6. Topic: Tourism
   Complete: Tourism _________________.

7. Topic: Homework
   Complete: Homework _________________.

8. Topic: Public libraries
   Complete: Public libraries _________________.

9. Topic: Mobile phones
   Complete: Mobile phones _________________.

10. Topic: Exercise
    Complete: Exercise _________________.

Part C: Identify the linking word function (11–15)

11. "However, some people think zoos are cruel."
    Function: ______________

12. "For instance, elephants need a large space to roam."
    Function: ______________

13. "Moreover, it is cost-effective."
    Function: ______________

14. "Firstly, students learn how to manage time."
    Function: ______________

15. "Although online learning is flexible, it lacks face-to-face interaction."
    Function: ______________

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✅ Answer Key

Part A:

1. b) is unhealthy if consumed regularly

2. c) improves career opportunities

3. a) connects people worldwide

4. b) is better for the environment

5. b) helps improve language skills

Part B:

6. Tourism creates jobs and supports the economy.

7. Homework reinforces what students learn in class.

8. Public libraries provide free access to knowledge and resources.

9. Mobile phones have changed the way we communicate.

10. Exercise is essential for physical and mental health.

Part C:

11. Contrast

12. Example

13. Addition

14. Sequence

15. Contrast

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🚀 Final Tips

• Use one clear topic sentence per paragraph.

• Support your idea with explanations and examples.

• Use linking words to guide the reader.

Practising this structure will help you write better, clearer, and more organized essays in IELTS Writing Task 2. Happy writing!

 

✦ IELTS Topic: Mountains, Hills & Valleys – 10 Useful Phrases

1. Snow-capped peaks
   e.g., The region is famous for its snow-capped peaks, especially in winter.

2. Rolling hills
   e.g., The landscape was filled with rolling hills stretching for miles.

3. Towering mountains
   e.g., Towering mountains surrounded the village and made it feel isolated.

4. Steep slopes
   e.g., We climbed the steep slopes of the hill to get a better view.

5. Winding mountain path
   e.g., The hiking trail followed a winding mountain path up to the summit.

6. Breathtaking views
   e.g., The top of the hill offered breathtaking views of the entire valley.

7. Lush valley
   e.g., A lush valley lay below us, filled with green farmland and rivers.

8. Rugged terrain
   e.g., The area was hard to cross because of the rugged terrain and rocks.

9. Mountain range
   e.g., The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world.

10. Remote hillside village
    e.g., We visited a remote hillside village where people still lived a traditional life.

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✦ IELTS Speaking Practice Test – Mountains, Hills & Valleys

Part 1: Introduction & Interview

1. Do you like mountains or prefer the beach?

2. Have you ever climbed a mountain or hill?

3. Are there any famous mountains or valleys in your country?

4. Would you like to live in a mountainous area?

5. What kind of activities do people do in hilly regions?

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Part 2: Cue Card

Describe a mountain, hill, or valley you have visited.
You should say:

• where it is

• what it looks like

• what you did there
  and explain why you liked it.

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✦ Sample Answers Using the Phrases

Part 1 Answers

1. I prefer mountains—I love breathtaking views and being in nature.
2. Yes, I’ve hiked up rolling hills near my home. It’s great exercise.
3. In my country, there’s a famous mountain range called the Tatras.
4. I’d love to live in a remote hillside village, away from city noise.
5. Hiking, cycling, and camping are common in areas with steep slopes and rugged terrain.

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Part 2 Sample Answer

One memorable trip I had was to the Scottish Highlands. It’s full of towering mountains and lush valleys, and the landscape is incredibly dramatic.

We followed a winding mountain path up Ben Nevis, which is the highest mountain in the UK. The hike was difficult, especially with the steep slopes, but reaching the summit was so rewarding.

At the top, we were treated to breathtaking views of the surrounding snow-capped peaks and green countryside below.

It was one of the most beautiful places I’ve ever seen, and I’d love to return one day.

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✦ Comprehension Test: Mountains, Hills & Valleys

1. "The region is famous for its snow-capped peaks, especially in winter."
Q: What do snow-capped peaks look like?

2. "The landscape was filled with rolling hills stretching for miles."
Q: How would you describe rolling hills?

3. "Towering mountains surrounded the village and made it feel isolated."
Q: How did the mountains affect the village?

4. "We climbed the steep slopes of the hill to get a better view."
Q: What challenge did the speakers face?

5. "The hiking trail followed a winding mountain path up to the summit."
Q: What was the path like?

6. "The top of the hill offered breathtaking views of the entire valley."
Q: What could be seen from the top?

7. "A lush valley lay below us, filled with green farmland and rivers."
Q: What does 'lush valley' suggest?

8. "The area was hard to cross because of the rugged terrain and rocks."
Q: Why was the terrain difficult?

9. "The Himalayas are the highest mountain range in the world."
Q: What is special about the Himalayas?

10. "We visited a remote hillside village where people still lived a traditional life."
Q: What is unique about the village?

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✦ Answer Key

1. Mountains with snow on top.

2. Gentle, rounded hills.

3. They made the village feel cut off or secluded.

4. A steep climb or uphill walk.

5. Curving and not straight.

6. Amazing scenery of the valley.

7. Fertile, green, and full of life.

8. It was uneven and full of obstacles.

9. They are the tallest in the world.

10. It’s isolated and people maintain old customs.

 

🐸 The Wind in the Willows – Chapter 2: Toad's Big Idea

One bright morning, Rat invited Mole to visit Toad Hall.

“Toad wants to see us,” Rat said. “He has a new idea.”

They packed a lunch and walked through the woods. Toad Hall was a grand, old house with large windows and long gardens.

Toad greeted them with open arms.

“My dear friends!” he said. “I’ve discovered something amazing.”

Rat rolled his eyes. “Another hobby?”

“Better than all the others,” Toad smiled. “I’ve given up boats and singing. I’m now… a traveler!”

“A traveler?” Mole asked.

“Yes!” Toad said. “I’ve bought a beautiful horse and a cart. We will ride in it across the country—like true adventurers!”

Toad led them outside. There stood a small green cart and a strong brown horse. The cart was decorated with red and yellow flowers.

“It looks nice,” Mole said kindly.

“It’s not just nice—it’s freedom!” said Toad. “The open road, the wind in your fur, the stars at night…”

Rat sighed. “How long until you give this up too?”

“Never!” Toad shouted. “This is my true calling!”

They set off down the road. Toad held the reins and sang songs loudly.

At first, it was fun. The countryside was beautiful. They passed fields, trees, and happy animals. But after a few hours, Rat and Mole were tired.

Toad didn’t notice. He was too busy talking.

Suddenly, a loud noise came from behind them.

🚗 VROOM! A big red car sped past on the road, kicking up dust.

Toad jumped in surprise. His eyes lit up.

“What was that?” he whispered.

“A motor-car,” Rat said. “Noisy things.”

Toad was silent.

Then, very quietly, he said, “I want one.”

Rat groaned. “Oh no. Not again.”

Back at Toad Hall, Toad couldn’t stop talking about the car.

“It was so fast. So powerful! The way it moved—it was magic!”

Rat shook his head. “You’ll forget it tomorrow.”

But Mole wasn’t so sure. He saw a strange light in Toad’s eyes.

Toad’s adventures were just beginning…

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📖 Glossary

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Grand	Large and impressive
Hobby	Something you enjoy doing for fun
Cart	A small vehicle pulled by a horse
Reins	Straps used to guide a horse
Motor-car	An old word for car
Calling	A strong feeling of purpose or passion

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❓ Comprehension Questions

1. Where do Mole and Rat visit in this chapter?

2. What is Toad’s new idea?

3. How does Toad describe his cart?

4. What do they see on the road that excites Toad?

5. What does Toad say he wants?

6. How do Rat and Mole react to Toad’s new interest?

7. What does Mole notice about Toad at the end?

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✅ Answers

1. Toad Hall.

2. He wants to travel the country in a horse cart.

3. He says it means freedom and adventure.

4. A fast red motor-car.

5. He wants to own a motor-car.

6. Rat is annoyed; Mole is unsure.

7. He sees excitement and obsession in Toad’s eyes.