ielts mind mapping essay skills pdf

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Using an IELTS Mind Map for Speaking Part 2

This lesson introduces you to the idea of using an IELTS mind map to help you with your speaking for part two.

There are different methods and techniques you'll come across for preparing for this part of the speaking test, so you really need to decide which way suits you best.

What are IELTS Mind Maps?

Mind maps are a way to  visually organize information . A single idea is placed in the middle, with ideas associated with that word around the edge.

A mind map can be useful for IELTS speaking in part two because you can place the main topic from the cue card in the middle and then brainstorm ideas around it.

You can use other question words such as ' why ', ' when ', ' who ', ' where ' etc to help you think of ideas.

As well as question words you can also add a story as this is a useful way to extend your answer - click here to view a lesson on how to extend your answers for part 2 and using a story to help you do this.

You can also add in any useful vocabulary that you think of.

Look at this example cue card, and then look at the mind map that someone has done in order to answer the question.

Describe a lake, a river or a sea you have visited.

You should say:

• Where the lake, river or sea is
• How often you have visited it
• What activities you do there

Explain why you like this particular place.

As you can see, a story has been added in, and some extra information about 'who', plus some interesting vocabulary

It's up to you in what order to answer the question. You don't have to follow the card, but you should try to cover all the points that are on there and your talk must be organized and coherent. The mind map or following the card will help with this, plus giving cues to which section you are on.

For example:

• " I've visited it many times because... " 

This tells the examiner you are talking about the ' How often ' part.

Here is a sample answer. Note how all the points are covered, plus some extra information that is not on the card but is on the mind map.

Sample Answer using a Mind Map

I’m going to talk about a lake that I’ve visited.

The lake is in the Lake District area which is in the North West of England. As you can guess by its name, it’s very famous for its many beautiful lakes. The area is also known as ‘The Lakes’ and it's a National Park.

I’ve visited it many times because I live only a few hours from there. I usually go every summer, and I’ve been going for many years now – probably since about 1998. We used to go a lot in my summer holiday when I was at school. Now I’m working I still go, but I’ll go at weekends. I usually go with my family – that’s my two brothers and my Mum and Dad. Sometimes we might go with our cousins as well. I've also been with friends quite a few times. There are loads of thing to do there. At this lake we go to, there are a lot of water sports and I really like those. There’s jet skiing, sailing and kayaking for example, but you don’t just have to do those things – there’s plenty to do even if you don’t like those kinds of activities. You can go walking around the lake or further out into the areas around the lake because there are many areas which are really beautiful. There are also some great places to eat good food.

One of the best things I've done is a Kayaking trip. It wasn’t actually on the lake, but in a river close by. There are some white water rapids, so I went on those with a friend. We started it with a group of others at a calm part of the river, with a guide as well to make sure everyone was safe. Some parts then got quite rough with the water and strong currents. It was scary but really exhilarating as well. I’ll definitely try and go again one day.

The reason why I like this place so much is that although there are lots of exciting activities that you can do,  it’s also surrounded by lots of breathtaking scenery, with stunning views of the hills and rivers. So it’s still really tranquil and relaxing and a really good way to unwind if you've had a difficult week at work and just want to get away.

So that’s the lake that I’ve visited and I’m sure I’ll continue to visit there in the future.

Try practicing this method of using a mind map to see if it helps you with your answer.

Here are some   cue cards  you can practice with.

More IELTS Speaking Lessons:

Words for Expressing Opinions in IELTS Speaking

Expressing opinions and justifying them is an important part of the IELTS speaking test. This will help you extend your response.

Useful IELTS Interview Expressions

Learn useful IELTS interview expressions that can help you to sound better in the IELTS Speaking test.

Fillers for IELTS Speaking: Avoid 'Eh', Uhm', 'You know'.

fillers for ielts speaking

Common Questions about the IELTS Speaking Test

These common questions about the IELTS speaking test are things that candidates often ask about this module of the test.

Tips for IELTS Speaking Part 2: Extending your Response

This is a lesson about IELTS Speaking Part 2. Learn how to extend your response so that it lasts two minutes.

Personal Experiences in Part 3 of the IELTS Speaking Test

You may talk about personal experiences in Part 3 of the IELTS speaking test when you give examples. This explains how.

Will and Going To for the Future in IELTS Speaking

Will and going to can be used to talk about the future in part 3 of the IELTS Speaking Test. 'Will' is for certain future events and ‘going to’ for plans.

Types of Speaking Questions for IELTS

This lesson covers types of speaking questions for IELTS related to part one. It explains how to avoid misunderstanding the question.

IELTS Speaking Questions and Answers: Optimising Your Responses

These IELTS speaking questions and answers will help you to improve your part 1. You should not speak excessively, and be honest but positive.

IELTS Speaking Tone - Using the Right Language

You need to get your speaking tone correct in the IELTS Test. You are having a conversation with someone, so you want to sound natural.

Language for Hypothetical Situations in IELTS Speaking

This lesson provides language for speaking about hypothetical situations for part 2 of the IELTS test. For this we use conditional type II 'if clauses'.

IELTS: Speaking About Change in Part 3

Speaking about change is a common task in the IELTS test part 3. It is common to use 'used to', comparatives, or 'would' to talk about change. .

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Learn How to Use Mind Maps to Enhance Your IELTS Vocabulary

Table of Contents

Mind maps in ielts, what are mind maps, relevance of mind maps in ielts, importance of mind maps in ielts vocabulary, how to create mind maps for ielts, how to use mind maps to enhance your ielts vocabulary.

Studying for the IELTS exam can be a challenging journey, especially when it comes to building a strong vocabulary. IELTS Vocabulary is a vital part of the IELTS preparation because it plays a significant role in scoring well in reading, writing, listening, and speaking sections. In this context, using mind maps in IELTS can be a game-changer in the process of vocabulary acquisition more efficient and engaging,

Now, you may be thinking about mind maps and how to use mind maps to improve IELTS vocabulary. In this comprehensive guide, we will elucidate mind maps in IELTS , how to use mind maps to enhance your IELTS vocabulary , the importance of mind maps and practical tips for creating and utilising them effectively.

Mind maps, also known as concept maps, are visual tools that help organise and connect ideas, making it easier to understand, remember, and recall information. By using mind maps to enhance your IELTS vocabulary , you can streamline your learning process and improve your chances of success on the test.

Mind maps for IELTS are graphical representations of information, concepts, or ideas. They typically start with a central idea or concept in the centre and branch into related subtopics or details. Mind maps use keywords, colours, images, and connections to help create a visual and organised representation of information.

Mind maps are highly relevant in the context of IELTS Vocabulary . Some of them are given below -

Mind maps help you structure and organise vocabulary logically and coherently. This organisation makes it easier to access and recall words when needed during the exam.

Visual aids are proven to enhance learning and retention. IELTS Mind maps influence visual elements, making vocabulary acquisition more engaging and effective.

Mind maps allow you to see how words are related to one another. This connection and contextual understanding of words is essential for effectively using them in various sections of the IELTS.

Mind maps in IELTS exam play a crucial role in IELTS Vocabulary. Below, you can check the importance of Mind Maps in IELTS Vocabulary .

Vocabulary Retention - Mind maps in IELTS Vocabulary make it easier to remember new words by associating them with images, colours, and context. This aids in long-term retention, which is crucial for performing well in the exam.

Word Associations - In the IELTS vocabulary, it is not just about knowing individual words; it is also about understanding how words are related. 

Enhanced Comprehension - A strong Mind Map English vocabulary improves comprehension skills, which is essential for understanding written and spoken texts in the reading and listening sections. 

Improved Writing - In the writing section, a rich vocabulary enables you to express your ideas more clearly and precisely. Mind maps for IELTS Writing help you categorise words according to their usage, making it easier to choose the right words for your essays.

Effective Speaking - During the speaking section, using varied and appropriate vocabulary demonstrates your language proficiency. Mind maps for IELTS Speaking aid in building a diverse vocabulary that enhances your speaking skills.

Creating effective mind maps for IELTS vocabulary involves a structured approach. Here are the steps that you should follow to create mind maps for IELTS Vocabulary. 

Step 1 - Choose a Central Theme

Start with a central theme or concept related to IELTS vocabulary. It could be a specific topic or category, such as "Education," "Technology," or "Environment."

Step 2 - Identify Subtopics

Determine the subtopics or categories under the central theme. For example, under the theme "Education," subtopics could include "School Subjects," "Learning Tools," and "Academic Skills."

  Step 3 - Add Keywords

List keywords or specific words associated with each subtopic. For "School Subjects," keywords might include "Mathematics," "Science," "History," and "Languages."

Step 4 - Use Visual Elements

Enhance your mind map with visual elements such as images, icons, or symbols representing words. This visual aspect makes the mind map more engaging and aids in retention.

Step 5 - Create Connections

Draw lines or arrows to connect related words or subtopics. It helps illustrate relationships and associations between words.

Step 6 - Color Coding

Use colours to categorise or highlight words. For example, you might use one colour for nouns, another for verbs, and a different colour for adjectives.

Step 7 - Review and Expand

Periodically review your mind map, add new words, and expand your vocabulary. Ensure that your mind map remains organised and easy to navigate.

Now that you know how to create mind maps for IELTS vocabulary, let's delve into how you can effectively use them to enhance your words.

Tip 1 - Regular Review

Review your mind maps regularly, as revisiting the words and connections you have created helps reinforce your memory.

As you encounter new words or phrases during your IELTS preparation , incorporate them into your mind map. 

Tip 2 - Practice Contextual Usage

When you add words to your mind map, include them in a way that their usage reflects in given sentences or phrases. Contextual usage helps you understand the words' meaning and use in different contexts.

Group words on your mind map by themes or topics. For instance, if your central theme is "Technology," create subtopics like "Computer Terms," "Internet Slang," or "Social Media Vocabulary."

Tip 3 - Active Learning

Use your mind maps as a tool for active learning. Challenge yourself to recall words and their meanings without looking at your notes.

Along with definitions and usage, include word pronunciations and correct spellings on your mind map. This is particularly helpful for the IELTS speaking and writing sections.

Tip 4 - Flashcards and Quizzes

Transform your mind map words into flashcards. On one side, write the word, and on the other side, the definition or a sample sentence. Test yourself regularly using these flashcards.

Organise word quizzes based on your mind map categories, as it adds an element of fun to your vocabulary-building process.

Tip 5 - Simulated Scenarios

Imagine real-life scenarios where you might use specific vocabulary and practice using the words in context.

Engage in role-play conversations with a study partner or record yourself speaking about a topic while incorporating the words from your mind map.

Enhancing your IELTS vocabulary is an essential part of your journey towards success in the exam. Mind maps for IELTS Vocabulary offer an effective and engaging way to organise, learn, and remember words. By creating structured mind maps and incorporating active learning strategies, you can build a robust vocabulary that serves you well in all sections of the IELTS.

We hope the information will help you prepare better for the IELTS exam and aid in enhancing your vocabulary. For more information, please contact Prepare IELTS (PI) expert counsellors for further guidance. Our team of education experts is dedicated to providing you with the best guidance in the IELTS exam. 

You can get a one-on-one counselling session online via our platform. Contact us at [email protected] or call us at +91 9773398388 .

Absolutely! There are various digital mind-mapping tools and apps available that can streamline the process of creating and organising your IELTS vocabulary mind maps. These tools offer cloud storage, sharing capabilities, and easy editing.

You can track your vocabulary progress by setting milestones or goals.

Yes, you can use mind maps for various aspects of the IELTS exam. For essay planning, create a mind map that outlines your essay's structure, main arguments, and supporting evidence. This visual representation can help you write more organised and cohesive essays.

Mind maps primarily help with vocabulary and organisation. However, they can indirectly improve your speaking skills. By visualising words and their connections, you will be better prepared to articulate your thoughts and ideas during the speaking section of the IELTS.

Start by identifying the key topics or themes likely to appear in the IELTS exam. Create subtopics under each theme and add relevant vocabulary words. Additionally, review past IELTS sample papers and practice tests to identify frequently used words.

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The following are some ideas to improve a mind mapping: gather all the information you need, * Draw an easy image or symbol to represent your central idea in the centre of the page, * Think of the major points or topics of your mind map, radiate your key topics of the central image as branches adding a key word that represents that topic, * Explore your key branches with sub-branches or thoughts by adding single words to each sub-branch, * Use your colored pens and add images to make your map vibrant and exciting, * Produce your mind map using the new and exciting mind mapping software. Are you still using rote memorization to recall ideas and vocabulary? Are you still leaving things until the last minute? This ebook will introduce you how to brainstorm, organize your points and write in response to the question. In addition, brainstorming diagrams, map, will guide you to broaden your mind.

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Learn How Mind Maps can help improve your IELTS Vocabulary

When preparing for the IELTS test, building a broad vocabulary is one of the most critical aspects. There are several ways of developing your vocab: reading more, watching videos and films in English, listening to podcasts etc.

One of the most effective ways to improve IELTS vocabulary is using mind maps . Mind Maps are a useful tool that will help you build the necessary vocabulary required for that.

Mind maps help to generate thoughts linked to a particular topic and quickly organise ideas. This can be especially useful in the IELTS Writing Task 2 and IELTS Speaking Part 2.

Let's understand how a mind map works with the help of an example topic 'last holiday destination'. With a map, it becomes easier to quickly list out different themes and talking points connected to the main topic, as shown below.

Example of a mind map:

With the help of a mind map, it gets easier to write/speak about any given topic. So, anyone who knows how to build a mind map will indeed have a good grip over IELTS exam vocabulary .

What is the connection between Mind Maps and Vocabulary?

As you may know, in the IELTS exam, you can expect to get questions based on a variety of topics. Therefore, it is essential that you possess the requisite vocabulary, good enough to fetch you a higher band score.

Right off the bat, it may not be easy to construct a mind map. With enough practice, the process of quickly brainstorming for relevant related themes connected to any topic becomes more natural.

The idea is to break the information you come up with into different logical groups:

• Connected themes and supporting examples
• Vocabulary (part of speech)

Tips and Strategies to Make a Mind Map

• Choose any topic which is comfortable for you.
• Think of ideas that are related to the topic, and you are going to write.
• Pick all those words that describe your ideas and thoughts.
• Know how you are going to connect all the information with the supporting examples.
• Also, ensure to think of the advantages or disadvantages related to it.
• Practice with topics that you can expect in the exam.

Here is a list of some common topics that you may expect in the IELTS exam.

You can practise with these to enhance your vocabulary resource .

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How to use mind maps to build your vocabulary resource for IELTS

Today we will take a closer look at how to increase your vocabulary by understanding how to create mind maps. By increasing your vocabulary range you will be able to perform better in all parts of the IELTS test.

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When we learn a language, not only do we learn words and phrases that relate to everyday survival, we also pick up language related to everyday topics, things that are happening in the world around us. When you prepare for an IELTS test, you need to get familiar with a wider range of topics to make it easier for you to access appropriate vocabulary and ideas related to these topic areas.

Having a wide vocabulary range is one of the keys to a great performance. You can build your vocabulary resource by reading daily, watching English programmes and movies, singing in English and by studying word lists. By increasing your range of vocabulary, it is easier to think of what to say quickly and it helps to understand the topics you are listening to, reading, writing, or speaking about.

One easy way to build your vocabulary resource is to create mind maps.

What is a mind map?

Mind maps are an easy way to help organise your ideas. They are also a great way to prepare for IELTS as you will have all of your ideas and language connected to one topic in one place. A mind map is made when you brainstorm a topic area.

Let’s think of a very simple mind map. If I said, IELTS , you would immediately think of words and ideas connected to the IELTS test. If you write all the words you know about IELTS, you will have a lot of words connected to testing as you have done tests in school from a very young age.

test | exam | reading | writing | listening | speaking | examiner | write | computer | learn | paper | time | run out of time | difficult | spelling | grammar | vocabulary | time management | easy | recording | start | true | false | not given | task | essay | question | passport | overview | graph | process | lexical resource | verb | cohesion | pronunciation | letter | paragraphs | discuss | effect

However, even though you have a long list of words in no particular order, you need to organise this language and ideas you may have in a way that makes it easier for you to remember and use on test day. It will not only help you prepare for the IELTS test, it will also mean that you can communicate better and understand more using English.

How do I make a mind map?

Mind maps can come in many shapes and forms. You might be a person that likes lists, numbering all of your ideas and words, or you may like to use boxes, or circles, or to highlight key words with arrows and colour. Your mind map needs to include as much language connected to the topic as you can.

The most important function of a mind map is to organise information into logical groups to help you remember what you have written. From the perspective of English as a second language, you will also include parts of speech in your diagram to remind you which verbs, nouns, adverbs, adjectives and phrasal verbs you should use when thinking about a particular topic.

A mind map can be divided into two areas covering:

Ideas and examples

Vocabulary (parts of speech)

We have created a mind map journey to show you how it's done:

Choose a topic from the list at the bottom of this article and then think of ideas related to it.

To help create your mind map, choose words that describe these ideas and examples that will make your description clearer. Also, think about positive and negative elements connected to your ideas.

You should then think about your topic in the past, the present, and how it could change in the future. Think of how you are connected to this topic, you, your country, your city and then think of how the government or other people and places are connected to the topic.

We have started a mind map about the environment , but have not finished it. See how we link ideas with vocabulary, building a mind map that will help us to talk or write about the environment.

Simple mind maps

Some of us like to work with lists and find them easier to memorise. A simple mind map can be made if you think about how the topic area affects you directly. Your mind can work like this when you are presented with a question about something you do. For example, the topic area might be ' interests and hobbies '.

Ask yourself the following questions:

Why do I do it?

Where do I do it, and why?

Is it good for me, and why?

What equipment do I need, and why?

You can guess from reading my answers below that I am talking about swimming . All words in bold are vocabulary connected to swimming. Because I have access to this vocabulary, it helps me to think of what to say and makes it easier to extend all of my answers appropriately.

I swim because it keeps me really fit and more importantly helps with my asthma .

I train at the local community pool because it's a 50 metre pool so I have to swim a bit further to get to the other end . I choose this pool as it's generally quiet and I usually get a lane to myself.

Swimming is a great sport as it helps your cardio-vascular fitness . It also builds muscle and helps with flexibility , so it's good for people who are older, like me.

You don't need that much equipment unless you want to join a squad and train . Your basic requirements are a cap and goggles and of course, a pair of togs . You need goggles as the pools in Australia have a lot of chlorine and it will sting your eyes . If you want to get into a squad and do some training , you will need a kick board and fins .

Look at the following mind map and choose your favourite hobby or interest and answer the 4 questions above. Try and use some of the vocabulary from the four boxes.

Now, it's your turn!

We have given you some ideas on how to create mind maps, now it's time for you to try. Start by completing the environment mind map and then look at the other common IELTS topic areas below.

This will take some time, however, by trying to brainstorm vocabulary and ideas for each one, you will create your very own topic library and can add to it when you learn new phrases and related language.

the environment

leisure and entertainment

learning and education

the internet

crime and punishment

health and diet

social media

sport and competition

art and music

modern lifestyles and societal changes

traditions and customs

fashion and advertising

Increasing your vocabulary over a wide range of topics will help when you read, write, listen and speak to people. You will also be more prepared, being able to access the language and ideas you need more easily, so can do your very best on a test day.

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IELTS Mindmaps

Mindmaps are a great way to organise and remember key vocabulary.

My Mindmaps have been put together after 28 years of teaching IELTS and storing high-frequency vocabulary.

These words are ESSENTIAL for all parts of the IELTS Test, and they WILL help you to improve your Reading and Listening scores, because you will understand more and be able to predict answers , which will save you time.

Knowing how to spell and pronounce these key words will also give you more authority, precision and flexibility in the Writing and Speaking Tests.

There are 5 MindMaps to accompany the Vocabulary Course in the Members Academy:

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IELTS Essay Skills - Mind-Mapping Kindle Edition

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Mind Maps for Vocabulary: A Visual Way to Improve Significantly

Updated On Sep 22, 2023

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The IELTS test is a challenging exam that requires a wide range of vocabulary. One way to improve it for IELTS is to use mind maps for vocabulary. Mind maps are a visual way of organizing information, and they can be helpful tools for learning new words.

How Mind Maps Work?

A mind map is a diagram that uses a central image or idea to connect related concepts. The central image is surrounded by branches, which represent subtopics. Each subtopic is then connected to other related concepts, and so on.

Creating mind maps for vocabulary is a great way to visualize information, and they can help you learn new vocabulary in a number of ways.

Mind Maps Help You to See Connections

One of the benefits of mind maps is that they help you to see the connections between different words. When you create a mind map, you are essentially organizing the words into a network of related concepts. This can help you to understand the meaning of new words more easily, and it can also help you to remember them better.

Mind Maps Make Learning More Fun

Mind maps can also make learning more fun. They are a creative way to organize information, and they can be a lot of fun to create. This can make the process of learning new vocabulary more enjoyable, which can lead to better results.

Mind Maps Help You to Memorize Words

Mind maps can also help you to memorize words. When you create a mind map, you are essentially creating a visual representation of the word’s meaning. This can help you to remember the word more easily, and it can also help you to recall it when you need it.

How to Create a Mind Map for Vocabulary?

To harness the full potential of mind maps for vocabulary, consider the following steps:

Choose a Central Keyword

Select a keyword related to a specific IELTS topic or theme. For instance, if you are preparing for the Writing section, choose a central keyword like “technology” or “environment.”

Find the Vocabulary for the Top 9 Most Common Topics in IELTS .

Create branches from the central keyword, representing subtopics or related concepts. These subtopics can include specific words, phrases, collocations, or idioms associated with the chosen keyword.

Add Definitions and Examples

Along each branch, incorporate concise definitions and example sentences to solidify your understanding of word meanings and usages. Use colors, symbols, or images to make the mind map visually appealing and memorable.

Establish Connections 

Draw lines or arrows between related words, indicating connections such as  synonyms , antonyms, or words with similar contexts. These visual cues reinforce the relationships between words, aiding memory recall during IELTS tasks.

Review Regularly 

Set aside dedicated time for a mind map revision. Regularly revisit your mind maps to reinforce vocabulary retention and deepen your understanding of word associations.

How to Use Mind Maps for IELTS Vocabulary?

There are a few different ways that you can use mind maps for vocabulary and implement them to improve your IELTS score with the help of it.

Create Mind Maps for Specific Topics

One way to use mind maps is to create them for specific topics. For example, if you are studying the topic of “education,” you could create a mind map that includes words related to schools, teachers, students, subjects, and so on. This can help you to learn a lot of new vocabulary related to a specific topic.

Create Mind Maps for Words That You Don’t Know

Another way to use mind maps is to create them for words that you don’t know. When you come across a new word, you can create a mind map that includes the word’s meaning, synonyms, antonyms, and examples of how it is used in a sentence. This can help you to learn the word’s meaning and how to use it correctly.

Use Mind Maps to Revise Your Vocabulary

Mind maps can also be used to revise your vocabulary. If you are preparing for the IELTS exam, you can create mind maps of the words that you are most likely to need to know. This can help you to keep your vocabulary fresh in your mind, and it can also help you to identify any gaps in your knowledge.

Source:   IDP

The Ultimate Method: A Quick Wind-Up On Mind Maps

Mind maps are a powerful tool that can help you improve your  IELTS vocabulary . They can help you to see connections between words, make learning more fun, and memorize words more easily. Always use clear and concise language, use images and symbols, use different colors, keep your mind maps simple, and revise your mind maps regularly.

Remember: Don’t be afraid to experiment when it comes to creating mind maps for vocabulary!

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Janice Thompson

Soon after graduating with a Master’s in Literature from Southern Arkansas University, she joined an institute as an English language trainer. She has had innumerous student interactions and has produced a couple of research papers on English language teaching. She soon found that non-native speakers struggled to meet the English language requirements set by foreign universities. It was when she decided to jump ship into IELTS training. From then on, she has been mentoring IELTS aspirants. She joined IELTSMaterial about a year ago, and her contributions have been exceptional. Her essay ideas and vocabulary have taken many students to a band 9.

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Using mind maps to develop writing

Mind maps can be used for a multitude of purposes. This article outlines how they can effectively be used to help support and develop students' writing skills.

• A mind map is ...
• The advantages of mind maps
• Choosing a topic
• Note making
• Organising mind maps
• Continuation

A mind map is ... A mind map, or spidergram, is a strategy for making notes on a topic, prior to writing. It is a structured strategy, which shows the (hierarchical) relationship of ideas, as opposed to an unstructured strategy, such as brainstorming, in which students produce notes at random on paper.

Having an organised display of information from the outset of the writing process may help some students, as it is more easily converted into a draft, whereas in brainstorming, the random recording of ideas might lead to problems with the structure of students' texts.

The advantages of mind maps Making a mind map should be a spontaneous pre-writing activity. Students start with a topic at the centre and then generate a web of ideas from that, developing and relating these ideas as their mind makes associations.

Mind maps work well as their visual design enables students to see the relationship between ideas, and encourages them to group certain ideas together as they proceed. Mind maps work especially well when created in groups, since the discussion this engenders aids the production of ideas, and makes the task livelier and more enjoyable.

How to make mind maps with your students Choosing a topic Traditionally, students are given a topic to write on by the teacher. However, with certain classes, students may prefer to nominate the topic themselves. This can lead to greater interest in the task on the part of the student, as well as, perhaps, greater knowledge of the topic under study.

The mind map strategy can be used to explore almost any topic, though discursive essays and narrative work particularly well as they front students' ideas and lend themselves to discussing ideas in groups.

I usually start by writing the topic on the board. In the last writing class I taught, with a group of upper-intermediate students, I chose a discursive essay with the title "Why do people start smoking?" I chose this genre as we had recently been looking at the language used to give reasons and explanations. The discursive text is useful in highlighting this feature of English, and in raising awareness of the noun phrase, a particularly tricky area for intermediate students.

Note making Once the topic has been introduced, I encourage my students to close their eyes and think about it for a minute or two, in silence. They then have two minutes in which to note down their ideas. If they do not know a word in English, they can write it in L1 at this stage, as dictionaries or too much teacher intervention tend to halt and inhibit the creative flow.

Then, working in groups, they can compare and discuss their ideas, perhaps adding to their mind maps as they go. This stage also provides the opportunity for peer teaching, as other students may be available to provide the English word for the idea that was noted down in L1.

Feedback The next stage, in which the teacher makes a collective mind map on the board, is optional, but is useful for students who are new to the idea of mind maps, or for weak classes. It is also in this feedback stage that any remaining language problems can be ironed out. As the teacher elicits students' ideas, and reformulates expressions or corrects, students will learn how to express their ideas in English. Such personalisation is said to aid vocabulary learning.

Download an example of the mind map at this stage 90k

The map is fluid and changeable, and new connections or subgroups can be made, or branches added, as the students make suggestions. The end result should be an organised display of information, showing the central topic, and a number of subtopics and further points that stem from it. Organising mind maps In the next stage the students organise their mind maps into a linear format to decide the best way in which to present their points. They should first think about the overall structure, i.e. the order in which to relay the information, and then focus on the precise function each paragraph will have in their final text, as this helps to clarify their writing. This can be done in groups, or as a class with the teacher leading the discussion.

However it is carried out, it is important to provide a context and audience. I told my class, who were writing about drugs, that they were writing for their college magazine. Having an audience in mind helps students to decide which ideas are most important, and also helps students to choose the appropriate style.

Writing Students should then begin to write their compositions, working in pairs if they wish. After two paragraphs, they should exchange their compositions, so they become readers of each other's work. This allows for feedback, and possible re-writing. Once they have finished, they should again exchange their texts. This gives their texts a communicative purpose, as well as developing an awareness of the fact that a writer is always producing something to be read by someone else, rather than for the display of writing alone.

Continuation Once students are familiar with the idea of making mind maps, they can be encouraged to use this skill for further writing activities. It is a useful technique and often improves the clarity and organisation of student texts.

Further Reading 'Process Writing' by Ron White and Valerie Arndt 'How to Teach Writing' by Jeremy Harmer 'Writing' by Tricia Hedge 'Discourse Analysis for Language Teachers' by Michael McCarthy

Vanessa Steele, British Council, Barcelona

Techniques like this will help our students plan and perform their writing tasks in a very productive way

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IELTS Writing & Speaking: 5 mind maps / brainstorming ideas on unemployment, violence, animal testing, natural disasters & stress; for task 2 essays, speaking part 2 & 3

This post on mind maps is for candidates who find it difficult to arrange / find out ideas for IELTS Writing Task 2 and Speaking part 2 / cue card or part 3 questions. Hopefully, these 5 mind-maps, on unemployment, violence, animal testing, natural disasters and stress, will help you gather ideas quickly to write essays or speak on a topic card for sometime.

It is quite natural that IELTS candidates often find it complicated to arrange some ideas on diverse topics and it becomes practically tricky for them to write an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay or speak on a topic/cue/task card in IELTS Speaking part 2.

Bearing this in mind, here I’ve arranged the second set of 5 mind-maps on 5 basic IELTS topics which are unemployment, violence, animal testing, natural disasters and stress. You will find these topics in almost all the IELTS books, hand-notes, blogs etc. Let’s have a look.

1.  A nimal Testing

Here is a mind map on animal testing.

You can use this mind-map to generate your ideas for the following IELTS Writing Task 2 essays.

• In these days experiments on animals are extensively used to develop new medicines and to test the safety of other products. Some people argue that these experiments should be banned because it is morally wrong to cause animals to suffer, while others are in favour of them because of their benefits to humanity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Examine the arguments in favour of and against animal experiments, and come to a conclusion on this issue.
• Do you agree or disagree on the following statement?  Experiments on animals for developing vaccines should be stopped.
• Animal over-exploitation may increase discrepancy in the ecosystem which may affect biodiversity. Do you agree or disagree?

You can also use the mind-map to generate your ideas for the following IELTS Speaking part 2- cue cards.

Describe an animal that is used in experiments to develop medicine.

You should say:

• What animal it is
• Where it is generally found
• Which medicines have been developed using it
• And how you felt about the experiments on the animal

You can also use the mind-map to generate your ideas for the following IELTS Speaking part 3 questions.

• Do you think animal testing should be considered on a case by case basis?
• Why do you think animal cloning is a controversial issue?
• Do you think animal testing for cosmetics and household products should be banned?
• Do you think there will be an alternative to animal testing in future?
• Why do you / don’t you support animal experiments?

2.  Natural disasters

Here is a mind map on natural disasters.

• It is the liability of the government to guard its citizens from natural disasters.  Do you agree or disagree?
• It is completely uncertain to us when any natural disaster will destroy a particular area and the administration should take every single safety measure to guard its citizens from natural disaster. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Natural disasters are unpredictable and so the government can do very little to alert citizens about them. Do you agree or disagree?
• Natural disasters are very common nowadays. What measures can the government take to protect citizens from natural disasters?

Describe a natural disaster in your locality.

• What it was
• When it happened
• How it affected your area
• And give details about your feeling about it
• Do you think natural disasters hinder economic progress of a country?
• Do you think mass people need education about natural disasters? Why?
• Who should be responsible for the safety standards when building people’s homes?
• How can we minimize the effects of natural disasters?
• Do you think public awareness can prevent post-disaster damages?

Here is a mind map on stress.

• Human life is becoming more and more stressful day by day. What are the major causes behind the stressful human life? How can this problem be solved?  
• Many psychologists claim that technology is the main culprit behind stressful lives that we lead. Others, however, disagree and say that technology relieves stress from our life.  Discuss both the views and give your personal opinion on this matter.
• Some people suggest that the present world is more nerve-racking than ever. Others disagree and say that our previous generations led more stressful days compared to modern society. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• Our world is becoming stressful. Some say that stressful life is advantageous to us. Do the advantages of stressful life outweigh the disadvantages?

Find a sample answer for this topic card in this link.

Describe a situation when you felt extremely stressed.

• When it was
• What happened on that day
• How it affected your mood
• And give details on how you handled that situation
• Do you believe that our life will be more stressful in the coming future?
• How does modern life cause stress?
• How does stress affect the quality of life?
• Does our modern lifestyle have anything to do with the stress we face?
• How can we solve the stressful situations that we face?

4. Unemployment

Here is a mind map on unemployment.

• The rate of unemployed people is higher in some countries compared to other countries.  What are the reasons behind this? What recommendations can you provide to deal with this situation?
• With the development of information technology a good number of people are become jobless every year. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Some experts claim that the only way to reduce unemployment from society is to lessen our dependence on technology. Others say that technology has nothing to do with unemployment.  What is your opinion about it
• Poor work skills are the main reason behind unemployment in most of the countries. Do you agree or disagree?
• Do you think ‘unemployment benefits’ should be cancelled?
• Does urbanization play any role in worsening the unemployment situation?
• Does better work skills are a solution to unemployment?
• Can business be a better option where job crisis prevails?
• What are the best solutions to tackle the unemployment problem?

5. Violence

Here is a mind map on violence.

• Many experts opine that the amount of violence shown on TV and in the movies seriously affects the behaviour patterns and actions of young generation. It, as a result, increases the amount of violent behavior in our society today.  Do you agree or disagree with the above given statement?
• Vandalism is nothing but an expression of the increasing violence in the society. What are the main causes behind this trend? Is there any way to solve violence in the society?
• Violence in TV and movies should be banned because it affects the psychology of children negatively. Do you agree or disagree?
• People of 21 st Century are more violent than previous era. Do you agree or disagree?

Describe a violent situation that you observed.

• Where and when it happened
• What happened on that particular day
• And how you felt when you faced that situation
• Violence is one of the major problems in modern society. What can be done to decrease or eradicate from the society?
• What factors contribute to violence in the society?
• Do you believe that mass media can be blamed for the spread of violence in the society?
• Does violence in films and dramas affect the behaviour patterns of young people?
• Is there any connection between family breakdown and violence among the youths?
• Why do you think teenagers are more violent than adults?

Click here for mind maps/brainstorming ideas for 5 more topics (drug addiction, traffic accidents, global warming, brain drain, culture shock)

Click here to learn more about mind-mapping in IELTS Writing Task 2 

Click here to get mind-maps/brainstorming ideas for 14 writing task 2 topics 

Click here to learn more about mind-mapping in IELTS Speaking Part 2

2 thoughts on “ IELTS Writing & Speaking: 5 mind maps / brainstorming ideas on unemployment, violence, animal testing, natural disasters & stress; for task 2 essays, speaking part 2 & 3 ”

• Pingback: IELTS Writing & Speaking: 5 mind maps / brainstorming ideas on traffic accidents, drug addiction, global warming, brain drain & culture shock; for task 2 essays, speaking part 2 & 3 | IELTS Deal

please provides more topic mind maps because its very useful i hope so you will provide as soon as

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