Anatomy of a Prompt
Image gallery annotating topic, focus, command, limits, and hidden contrast.
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Breaking down a prompt reveals the hidden boundaries and multiple parts you must address to maximize Task Response.
Deconstruct a prompt into topic, focus, command, limits, and hidden contrast to ensure full Task Response.
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Teach that Task Response depends on answering all parts of the prompt.
You write an essay with perfect grammar and great vocabulary. But you still get a 6.0. Why? The answer is usually Task Response.
If a prompt asks for two things and you only write about one, your Task Response score is permanently capped. To break past Band 6.5, you must answer every single part of the question.
Image gallery annotating topic, focus, command, limits, and hidden contrast.
Breaking down a prompt reveals the hidden boundaries and multiple parts you must address to maximize Task Response.
Learner identifies topic words, task words, limiting words, and question parts.
Consider this sample IELTS prompt: "In many countries, the amount of crime is increasing; what are the main causes and what solutions can you suggest?" First, you must identify the general of the essay, which in this example is "". Next, look for the to ensure your arguments stay tightly focused. In this specific prompt, the restriction is that the issue is "". Finally, you must underline the , which tells you exactly how to structure your response. Here, the instructions require you to discuss the "" and propose "". Mastering this quick highlighting technique guarantees a better Task Response score by preventing off-topic paragraphs under exam conditions.
Learner fills in the breakdown of a prompt.
Let's analyze this IELTS prompt: 'Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes; to what extent do you agree or disagree?' When planning your essay, you first identify that the broad topic is . Next, you note that the specific question asks whether this unpaid work should be for students. I must make sure to discuss the extent to which I with making this a mandatory requirement. A good plan will outline both the positive outcomes and the of this policy before deciding on a stance. Finally, to achieve a Band 7 or higher, I must support my core arguments with relevant from my own knowledge or experience.
AI checks whether learner captured every required part.
Identify who and where the essay must focus on.
Missing one of these will cap your Task Response score.
Reflect on how the grading rubric works.
Recall the rule for identifying prompt parts.