Dave's ESL Cafe's Student Discussion Forums

[nostril5]

A 6 will have numerous grammar mistakes, but a 7 shows few mistakes while both can use quite simple grammar.
Both a 6 and 7 should have good length, suitable structure, use of linking words and clear ideas.
A 7 should demonstrate a few 'native-like' phrases or even sentences which can be memorised.
The only way to make this jump is to practice.

Good luck in the test!
Mike
ielts2u - an IELTS writing help site

[nostril5]

To explain a little more - Improving your writing from a 6.0 to a 6.5 (or even 7.0) is often a matter of fixing grammar mistakes. Get your wrining checked and then make a list of the mistakes you make more than once. This list will be the key to improving your writing. The mistakes will be obvious to you (after someone has pointed them out!) but are just bad habits that need to be eliminated.
I hope this helps.
Mike
ielts2u - an IELTS writing help site

[nostril5]

Start Task 2 by rephrasing the statement into an easy question. Choose if you agree or disagree, then try to think of 2 or 3 points that support or are against your point of view. Each point will be 1 paragraph in your body.

Bracket your body with a nice introduction and conclusion and you'll have a great score!

Ok,it isn't that easy, but this is a good way to start.

Good luck!
Regards,
Mike
ielts2u - an IELTS writing help site

[teacherdominic]

Good advice from Mike.

I'd add not to forget the value of thinking of your vocab: this accounts for 25% of your mark. To get to the magic 7.0 you need a good range of accurately used vocab. Two tips for you.

1) Try planning your vocab before you start writing. This can work very well for some people who might otherwise use a slightly restricted range of words. The point is that there is no mark for good ideas, but there is a mark for good vocab. So why not try planning the words (and not just the ideas) you want to use before you start writing

2) It is easy to get stuck on a word without realising it. Part of the checking process should definitely be checking for unnecessary repetition of words.

Good lucK!
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Dominic Cole
Dominic Cole's IELTS Blog