What Is Task 2?
Task 2 presents a survey prompt about a community, workplace, or social issue. You must:
1. Choose one option from the survey (e.g., "Option A: Build a park" or "Option B: Build a parking lot") 2. Write a response explaining and supporting your choice (~150–200 words) 3. Complete it in the remaining time (~26 minutes)
The key difference from Task 1: you're not just relaying information — you're arguing a position. You need to persuade the reader that your choice is the right one.
The Opinion Framework
Use this framework for every Task 2 response:
Paragraph 1 — State your choice (2 sentences): "I strongly believe that [Option X] is the better choice for our community. There are several compelling reasons for this position."
Paragraph 2 — Reason 1 + Example (3–4 sentences): "First and foremost, [reason]. For example, [specific example or detail]."
Paragraph 3 — Reason 2 + Example (3–4 sentences): "Furthermore, [reason]. To illustrate, [example]."
Paragraph 4 — Acknowledge the other option + Reaffirm (2–3 sentences): "While [other option] has some merit, I believe it falls short because [brief counter]. Therefore, [Option X] remains the superior choice."
This framework ensures you: state a position, support it with reasons, address the counterargument, and reach a conclusion — all CLB 7 requirements.
20 Must-Know Opinion Phrases
Sprinkle these throughout your survey response:
Stating your opinion: - "I firmly believe that..." - "In my opinion..." - "From my perspective..." - "It is my strong conviction that..."
Supporting your argument: - "The primary reason is that..." - "This is supported by the fact that..." - "A key advantage of this option is..." - "One cannot overlook the benefit of..."
Giving examples: - "For instance..." - "A prime example of this is..." - "This can be seen in cases where..." - "To illustrate this point..."
Acknowledging the opposing view: - "Admittedly, some may argue that..." - "While there is some validity to..." - "Despite the merits of the alternative..."
Concluding: - "In light of these reasons..." - "Taking everything into consideration..." - "All things considered..." - "For the reasons outlined above..."
Use 8–10 of these per response and your coherence score jumps.
Common Task 2 Mistakes
- Not choosing a side: You MUST pick one option and defend it. Don't write "both options are good." - Weak examples: "This is better because it's good" is not an example. Use: "This is better because it provides outdoor recreation space, which has been shown to reduce stress and promote family bonding." - Ignoring the other option: Not addressing the alternative option at all misses the CLB 7 criterion of acknowledging different perspectives. - Running out of time: Task 2 often gets less time because writers overspend on Task 1. Budget your time.