IELTS Opinion Essays: Complete Guide with Samples (2026)
What is an Opinion Essay?
An opinion essay (also called an agree/disagree essay) asks you to state your personal view on a topic. It is one of the most common IELTS Task 2 question types, appearing in approximately 30-40% of tests.
- "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"
- "Do you agree or disagree with this statement?"
- "What is your opinion?"
Recommended Structure
| Paragraph | Content | Words |
|---|---|---|
| Introduction | Paraphrase the topic + state your opinion clearly | 40-50 |
| Body 1 | First reason + explanation + example | 80-100 |
| Body 2 | Second reason + explanation + example | 80-100 |
| Conclusion | Restate your opinion + summarise key points | 30-40 |
Key Strategies
Do
- State your opinion clearly in the introduction
- Maintain the same position throughout
- Use specific examples to support each point
- Acknowledge the other side briefly (shows sophistication)
- Write at least 250 words
Don't
- Sit on the fence (pick a clear position)
- Change your opinion in the conclusion
- Use "I think" in every sentence
- Write a list of ideas without development
- Memorise model answers
Sample Opinion Essay: Band 7+
Topic: Some people believe that children should not be given homework every day. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
The question of whether daily homework benefits children has sparked considerable debate among educators and parents alike. I largely agree that children should not be burdened with homework every day, as excessive assignments can be counterproductive and deprive children of essential leisure time.
The primary reason I oppose daily homework is that it can lead to burnout and a negative attitude towards learning. When children spend their entire day at school and then face hours of assignments at home, they have little opportunity to relax, play, or pursue personal interests. Research from Stanford University has shown that excessive homework in primary school has no measurable impact on academic achievement and can actually increase stress and reduce engagement with learning.
Additionally, not all families have equal resources to support homework completion. Children from disadvantaged backgrounds may lack a quiet study space, internet access, or parental guidance, meaning that heavy homework loads can exacerbate existing educational inequalities rather than addressing them.
However, I acknowledge that some homework serves a valuable purpose. Occasional assignments that reinforce classroom learning, encourage independent thinking, or involve creative projects can genuinely benefit students. The issue is not homework itself but the quantity and frequency with which it is assigned.
In conclusion, while homework has its place in education, daily assignments are often excessive and counterproductive. Schools should focus on quality over quantity, assigning meaningful tasks that enhance learning without overwhelming children or widening social inequalities.
Analysis of This Essay:
- Clear position: "I largely agree" - notice "largely" allows for nuance
- Specific evidence: Stanford University research cited
- Concession paragraph: "However, I acknowledge..." shows balanced thinking
- Strong conclusion: Restates position with practical suggestion