Linking Words for Speaking Task 2
IELTS (The International English Language Testing System) is the most popular language proficiency exam that is conducted mainly for immigration, academic and professional purposes.
Linking words for speaking task 2 are important part of IELTS.
Using appropriate linking words and phrases is very crucial for achieving a high score in this task. Linking words are simply the connectors which make a connection between sentences, ideas and paragraphs. Moreover, their usage makes your viewpoint easy to understand.
IELTS Speaking Part 2
In IELTS speaking part 2, the examiner will give you a topic to speak on it. Furthermore, also gives you a time of one minute to write clue about it. In this part, following linking words will help you to describe the topic.
Introducing the Topic
Whether it’s academic IELTS or general Linking words play important role. Introducing the topic is important because it plays important role. “Today, I’m going to talk about”, “The topic I have been given is”, “I would like to discuss”, “Let’s consider”, “The question I’m addressing is”, and “I want to share my thoughts on” are the linking phrases used for introduction.
- I would like to discuss the topic of climate change with all of you.
- Let’s consider the role of technology in industrial development.
Structuring the Responses
“First and foremost,”, “To start with”, “Moving on to”, “Another aspect to consider is”, are used for structuring your responses. This helps the examiner to thoroughly understand your argument in a sequence.
The following examples will help you to understand
- First and foremost, let’s examine the historical context of the issue.
- To start with, we need to understand the fundamental principles involved in this situation.
- Moving on to the practical aspects, let’s explore potential solutions of this complex problem.
Providing Examples
Giving examples about a certain topic of discussion shows that you have deeper knowledge. This ensures a good band score in your IELTS exam. While providing examples, one must consider using various linking words such as “For example“, “To illustrate”, “One example of this is”, “To give you an instance”, and “A case in point is”, etc.
Example
People were talking about country crisis. For example, inflation is the biggest problem today.
Don’t you think we can do better, for instance, we can open a mall to increase our sales.
Offering Reasons and Explanations
Offering reasons for your argument always solidifies your position. While giving explanations or reasons linking words like “The reason for this is”, “This can also be presented as, “One possible explanation is”, and “The main factor behind this is”.
Example
- The reason for this is the increasing global temperatures which have negative impact on the world.
- One possible explanation in the business loss is consumer preferences towards domestic products.
Showing Opposition or Contrast
“On the other hand”, “In contrast”, “Although”, and “Despite this” are some commonly used linking words while showing opposition or contrast among different ideas or concepts.
Example
- In contrast to the positive outcomes, there might be some unintended negative consequences.
- Although the initial results seem promising, further research is needed to confirm the findings.
Showing Sequence
It is very important that the examiner knows about the sequence of your speech. It means that your argument should be clear and comprehensive. It must have a proper start, middle and, of course, a solid ending. Sequence linking words are Firstly, Secondly, Next and Lastly etc.
Example
- Next, we will examine the effects of social media on our younger generation.
- Lastly, I would like to conclude my briefing by summarizing the key points of presentation.
Providing Emphasis and Clarity
For effective communication, one must have clarity in his dialogue. Providing emphasis with the use of appropriate linking words and phrases will ultimately prove to be beneficial for your band score. Linking words like “In other words”, “To put it simply”, “I mean”, “Indeed”, “Of course”, “Certainly”, and “Above all” can be used for this sole purpose.
Example
- To put it simply, the main goal is to achieve sustainable development.
- I mean, we need to consider all aspects before making a decision.
Importance of Linking Words
No one can deny the importance of linking words. Without them the structure seems to be worthless and meaningless. Following lines will help you to through a light on the importance of linking words
- These words help you to make smooth transitions from one statement to another without inconvenience.
- Linking words are basically conjunctions which help to have engaging and catchy conversation.
- These words help in organizing complex ideas in an order, which states the beginning, middle and end of the discussion.
- Using suitable linking words will help you to present more professional conversation.
In a net shell
There is no denying in the fact that in IELTS Speaking task 2 linking words play an important role. If someone wants to get high band score he must consider the importance of linking words.
