Hi,
Am from a non-English speaking country and I attended 2 times for the IELTS. Both the times I got 7.5 in writing (Speaking 6.5 only.. thats why tried again.... again 6.5... then stopped) I will just share my experience/thoughts in writing module....
IELTS General writing module have 2 phases - Letter writing and Essay writing. 70-75% of the marks is given to Essay than letter writing. So give much importance to essay writing.
Prepare well for letter writing. Use apt introduction with punctuation like (Hello John, Dear Sir etc etc). First para of the letter should contain a small introduction etc..
Second para should contain the subject/matter. Write it clearly with good vocabulary without any spelling mistakes. Use appropriate punctuation.... Use of sentences like "I wonder whether you can..." or "May I have the permission to do..." etc etc will be good to impress the examiner.
Last para for conclusion. Also write "Look forward to hearing from you soon" etc etc will be ok..
Minimum 150 words should be there for the letter. Add some good vocabulary without spelling mistakes...
Essay writing.
Starting para - Write your general view about the subject. Then write whether you agree/diagree etc etc.
Decide how many points you want to write. Write it somewhere in question paper. Also note major words, sentences, phrases you like to include in your letter in the Q paper) don't take much time for this. I noted simple words/phrases like (First of all, Second of all, Finally, In conclusion, In other words, however, For example, Not only...but also, rather than, Although, "At the end of the day what matters most...") These are very simple words/phrases shown in all essays. But if you are able to include all these in the essay at the right places without any spelling mistakes.... there is 7 plus.....
Write the essay in 4-5 paragraphs. Each para should/may start with First of all.... Then write the other side.. like... However... or On the other hand.... Also mention some example... like For example...
Each para.... write as above.... and last para may start with.... "In conclusion, let me reiterate that......"
If possible add some famous phrases which is suitable for the situation.....
I know that all the above mentioned points are simple only which is known to every school children. But guys like us is not doing all these things right now... so we have to practice a little... thats all...
I hope I might be a little help to you....
Satish