BABAR ENGLISH
IELTS WRITING
Academic IELTS Writing
General Training IELTS Writing
Test format – Academic Writing (60 minutes)
Topics are of general interest to, and suitable for, test takers entering undergraduate and postgraduate studies or seeking professional registration. There are two tasks:
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Task 1 - you will be presented with a graph, table, chart or diagram and asked to describe, summarise or explain the information in your own words. You may be asked to describe and explain data, describe the stages of a process, how something works or describe an object or event.
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Task 2 - you will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. Responses to both tasks must be in a formal style.
IELTS Academic Writing description
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Paper format: There are two Writing tasks and BOTH must be completed.
Timing: 60 minutes
No. of questions: 2
Task types: In Task 1, test takers are asked to describe some visual information (graph/table/chart/diagram) in their own words. They need to write 150 words in about 20 minutes. In Task 2, they respond to a point of view or argument or problem. They need to write 250 words in about 40 minutes.
Answering: Answers must be given on the answer sheet and must be written in full. Notes or bullet points are not acceptable as answers. Test takers may write on the question paper but this cannot be taken from the examination room and will not be seen by the examiner.
A detailed look at the paper with links to related resources.
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Task 1
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Task type and format: In Writing Task 1, test takers may be asked to describe facts or figures presented in one or more graphs, charts or tables on a related topic; or they may be given a diagram of a machine, a device or a process and asked to explain how it works. They should write in an academic or semi-formal/neutral styles and include the most important and the most relevant points in the diagram. Some minor points or details may be left out.
Test takers should spend no more than 20 minutes on this task. They are asked to write at least 150 words and will be penalised if their answer is too short. While test takers will not be penalised for writing more than 150 words, they should remember that a longer Task 1 answer may mean that they have less time to spend on Task 2, which contributes twice as much to the Writing band score.
Test takers should also note that they will be penalised for irrelevance if the response is off-topic or is not written as full, connected text (e.g. using bullet points in any part of the response, or note form, etc.). They will be severely penalised for plagiarism (i.e. copying from another source).
Test takers must write their answers on the answer booklet.
Task focus: This task assesses the ability to identify the most important and relevant information and trends in a graph, chart, table or diagram, and to give a well-organised overview of it using language accurately in an academic style.
No. of questions: 1
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Task 2
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Task type and format: In Writing Task 2, test takers are given a topic to write about an academic or semi-formal/neutral style. Answers should be a discursive consideration of the relevant issues. Test takers should make sure that they read the task carefully and provide a full and relevant response. For example, if the topic is a particular aspect of computers, they should focus on this aspect in their response. They should not simply write about computers in general.
Test takers should spend no more than 40 minutes on this task. They are asked to write at least 250 words and will be penalised if their answer is too short. While test takers will not be penalised for writing more than 250 words, if they write a very long answer they may not have time for checking and correcting at the end and some ideas may not be directly relevant to the question.
Task 2 contributes twice as much to the final Writing band score as Task 1. Therefore, test takers who fail to attempt to answer this task will greatly reduce their chance of achieving a good band.
Test takers will be penalised for irrelevance if the response is off-topic or is not written as full, connected text (e.g. using bullet points in any part of the response, or note form, etc.). They will be severely penalised for plagiarism (i.e. copying from another source). Finally, test takers should make sure that they do not copy directly from the question paper because this will not be assessed.
They must write their answers on the answer booklet.
Task focus: This task assesses the ability to present a clear, relevant, well-organised argument, giving evidence or examples to support ideas and use language accurately.
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No. of questions: 1
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IELTS Academic Writing - How it's marked
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Marking and assessment
Each task is assessed independently. The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1.
Responses are assessed by certificated IELTS examiners. All IELTS examiners hold relevant teaching qualifications and are recruited as examiners by the test centres and approved by the British Council or IDP: IELTS Australia.
Scores are reported in whole and half bands. Detailed performance descriptors have been developed which describe written performance at the nine IELTS bands. These are available on the How IELTS is scored page. They apply to both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training versions and are based on the following criteria.
Task 1 responses are assessed on:
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Task achievement
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Coherence and cohesion
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Lexical resource
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Grammatical range and accuracy.
Task 2 responses are assessed on:
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Task response
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Coherence and cohesion
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Lexical resource
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Grammatical range and accuracy.
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Performance descriptors
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Task 1
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Task achievement
This assesses how appropriately, accurately and relevantly the response fulfils the requirements set out in the task, using the minimum of 150 words. Academic Writing Task 1 is a writing task which has a defined input and a largely predictable output. It is basically an information-transfer task that relates narrowly to the factual content of an input diagram and not to speculative explanations that lie outside the given data.
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Coherence and cohesion
This concerns overall clarity and fluency: how the response organises and links information, ideas and language. Coherence refers to the linking of ideas through logical sequencing. Cohesion refers to the varied and appropriate use of cohesive devices (for example, logical connectors, pronouns and conjunctions) to assist in making the conceptual and referential relationships between and within sentences clear.
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Lexical resource
This refers to the range of vocabulary used and its accuracy and appropriacy in terms of the specific task.
Grammatical range and accuracy
This refers to the range and accurate use of grammar as manifested in their sentence writing.
Task 2
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Task response
In both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training versions, Task 2 requires test takers to formulate and develop a position in relation to a given prompt in the form of a question or statement. Ideas should be supported by evidence, and examples may be drawn from the test takers’ own experience. Responses must be at least 250 words in length. Scripts under the required minimum word limit will be penalised.
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Coherence and cohesion
This assesses the overall clarity and fluency of the message: how the response organises and links information, ideas and language. Coherence refers to the linking of ideas through logical sequencing. Cohesion refers to the varied and appropriate use of cohesive devices (for example, logical connectors, pronouns and conjunctions) to assist in making the conceptual and referential relationships between and within sentences clear.
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Lexical resource
This criterion refers to the range of vocabulary used and its accuracy and appropriacy in terms of the specific task.
Grammatical range and accuracy
This assesses the range and accurate use of grammar, as manifested in their test takers’ writing at sentence level.
Test format – General Training Writing (60 minutes)
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Topics are of general interest. There are two tasks:
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Task 1 - you will be presented with a situation and asked to write a letter requesting information, or explaining the situation. The letter may be personal, semi-formal or formal in style.
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Task 2 - you will be asked to write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. The essay can be fairly personal in style.
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IELTS General Training Writing description
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Paper format: There are two Writing tasks to complete.
Timing: 60 minutes
No. of questions: 2
Task types: In Task 1, test takers are asked to respond to a situation, for example, by writing a letter requesting information or explaining a situation. In Task 2, test takers write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem.
Answering: Answers must be written in full in the answer booklet. Notes or bullet points in whole or in part are not acceptable as answers. Test takers may write on the question paper but this cannot be taken from the test room and will not be seen by the examiner.
A detailed look at the paper with links to related resources.
Task 1
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Task type and format: In Writing Task 1, test takers are presented with a situation and required to write a personal response in the form of an informal, semi-formal or formal letter of at least 150 words in the answer booklet provided. The situations they are asked to write about are common, everyday ones such as: writing to a college accommodation officer about problems with accommodation, writing to a new employer about time management problems they are having, writing to a local newspaper about a plan to develop a local airport, writing to a renting agency to sort out problems with the heating system in their house.
Test takers are told what kind of information (in the form of three bullet points) they must include in their response. They may be required to request or give information and/or explain a situation. To do this, they may need to do some of the following: ask for and/or provide general factual information, express needs, wants, likes or dislikes, express opinions or complaints, make requests or make suggestions/recommendations.
The style of writing that test takers use depends who they are asked to write to (i.e. the audience) and how well they are supposed to know them. They need to write in a style that is appropriate for their audience and that will help them to achieve their purpose for writing, e.g. writing to a friend (informal) or writing to a manager (semi-formal or formal). Test takers do not need to include any addresses at the head of their letters.
Test takers should spend no more than 20 minutes on this task. They are asked to write at least 150 words and will be penalised if their answer is too short. While test takers will not be penalised for writing more than 150 words, they should remember that a longer Task 1 answer may mean that they have less time to spend on Task 2, which contributes twice as much to the Writing band score.
Test takers should also note that they will be penalised for irrelevance, if the response is off-topic or is not written as full, connected text (e.g. using bullet points in any part of the response, or note form, etc.). They will be severely penalised for plagiarism (i.e. copying from another source).
Task focus: This task assesses the ability to follow English letter-writing conventions (i.e. what order to put information in, what style to use, how to start and finish a letter), to use language accurately and appropriately and to organise and link information coherently and cohesively.
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No. of questions: 1
Task 2
Task type and format: In Writing Task 2, test takers write a semi-formal/neutral discursive essay of at least 250 words in the answer book provided.
The task instructions give information about a point of view, argument or problem. They then tell test takers how to discuss this, which may involve providing general factual information, outlining and/or presenting a solution, justifying an opinion, evaluating evidence and ideas.
Topics are of general interest, - such as: whether children’s leisure activities should be educational, why families are not so close as they used to be and how they could be brought closer, how environmental problems can be solved, who should pay for the care of old people, whether smoking should be banned in public places.
Test takers should make sure that they complete the task carefully and provide a full and relevant response. They should organise their ideas clearly and make sure to support their argument with relevant examples (including from their own experience where relevant) or evidence. For this task, test takers need to be able to communicate more abstract and complex ideas and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Task 2 contributes twice as much to the final Writing band score as Task 1. Therefore, test takers who fail to attempt to answer this task will greatly reduce their chance of achieving a good score.
Test takers are asked to write at least 250 words and will be penalised if their answer is too short. They should spend no more than 40 minutes on this task.
Test takers should also note that they will be penalised for irrelevance if the response is off-topic or is not written as full, connected text (e.g. using bullet points in any part of the response, or note form, etc.). They will be severely penalised for plagiarism (i.e. copying from another source).
Task focus: This task assesses the ability to follow English discursive writing conventions (i.e. what order to put information in, what style to use, how to start and finish discursive writing, how to paragraph), to organise and link information coherently and cohesively and to use language accurately and appropriately.
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No. of questions: 1
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IELTS General Training Writing - How it's marked
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Marking and assessment
Writing responses are assessed by certificated IELTS examiners. All IELTS examiners hold relevant teaching qualifications and are recruited as examiners by the test centres and approved by the British Council or IDP: IELTS Australia.
Each task is assessed independently. The assessment of Task 2 carries more weight in marking than Task 1.Scores are reported in whole and half bands. Detailed performance descriptors have been developed which describe written performance at the nine IELTS bands. They are available on the How IELTS is scored page. The descriptors apply to both the Academic and General Training versions and are based on the following criteria.
​
Task 1 responses are assessed on:
​
-
Task achievement
-
Coherence and cohesion
-
Lexical resource
-
Grammatical range and accuracy.
​
Task 2 responses are assessed on:
-
Task response
-
Coherence and cohesion
-
Lexical resource
-
Grammatical range and accuracy.
Performance descriptors
Task 1
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Task achievement
This assesses how appropriately, accurately and relevantly the response fulfils the requirements set out in the task, using the minimum of 150 words. General Training Writing Task 1 is a writing task with a largely predictable output in that each task sets out the context and purpose of the letter and the functions the test taker should cover in order to achieve this purpose.
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Coherence and cohesion
This assesses the overall clarity and fluency of the message: how the response organises and links information, ideas and language. Coherence refers to the linking of ideas through logical sequencing. Cohesion refers to the varied and appropriate use of cohesive devices (for example, logical connectors, pronouns and conjunctions) to assist in making the conceptual and referential relationships between and within sentences clear.
​
Lexical resource
This refers to the range of vocabulary the test takers have used and the accuracy and appropriacy of use in terms of the specific task.
​
Grammatical range and accuracy
This refers to the range and accurate use of grammar, as manifested in the test takers’ sentence writing.
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Task 2
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Task response
In both IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training versions, Task 2 requires test takers to formulate and develop a position in relation to a question or statement. Ideas should be supported by evidence, and examples may be drawn from the test takers’ own experience. Responses must be at least 250 words in length. Scripts under the required minimum word limit will be penalised.
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The other three assessment criteria (Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, Grammatical Range and Accuracy) are the same for Task 1 and Task 2.
THE MOST IMPORTANT ESSAYS FOR IELTS
1. ARCHITECTURE/HOUSING/BUILDING
2. ARTS/ CULTURE/TRADITION/MUSEUMS
3. BUSINESS/MONEY/ECONOMY
4. CRIME AND PUNISHMENT&LAW
5. EDUCATION
6. ENTERTAINMENT/HOBBY
7. ENVIRONMENT/NATURE/CLIMATE/ANIMALS
8. FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHILDREN
9. FOOD
10. GENDER ISSUES
11. GLOBAL ISSUES/GLOBALIZATION
12. GOVERNMENT
13. HEALTH
14. LANGUAGE
15. MEDIA
16. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
17. SOCIETY/SOCIAL PROLEMS/SOCIAL TRENDS
18. SPORTS
19. TRANSPORT
20. TRAVEL/TOURISM
21. WORK
22. OTHERS/ABSTRACT IDEAS
1. ARCHITECTURE/HOUSING/BUILDING
1. Many old buildings protected by law are part of a nation’s history. Some people think they should be knocked down and replaced by news ones.
How important is it to maintain old buildings?
Should history stand in the way of progress?
2. Safety standards are important when building peoples’ homes. Who should be responsible for enforcing strict building codes – the government or the people who build the homes?
Use your own knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
3. It is more important for a building to serve a purpose than to look beautiful. Architects shouldn't worry about producing building as a work of art. Do you agree or disagree?
4. More houses are needed in many countries to cope with increasing populations. Would it be better to build houses in existing towns and cities, or to develop new towns in rural areas?
2. ARTS/CULTURE/TRADITION/MUSEUM
1. There are many different types of music today. Is the traditional music of a country more important than the International music that is heard everywhere nowadays?
2. Creative artists should always have the freedom to express their ideas (in paintings, books, films and songs) in any way they wish. The government should not restrict what they do. To what extent do you agree with this opinion?
3. Government investment in the arts, such as music and theatre, is a waste of money. Governments must invest this money in public services instead.
To what extent do you agree with this statement??
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.
4. Art is considered an essential part of all cultures throughout the world. However, these days fewer and fewer people appreciate art and turn their focus to science, technology and business.
Why do you think that is?
What could be done to encourage more people to take interest in the arts?
5. "Nowadays it is noticed that cultural mixing is reflected within local cultural practices. Do you think it is good for our society?"
6. Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
7. Some believe the primary purpose of museums is to entertain people, while others believe their purpose is to educate. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
8. "Countries become more developed due to mix of different people and their culture. Do you agree or disagree?"
9. There are many different types of music in the world today. Why do we need music? Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard everywhere nowadays?
10. Art is considered an important part of a society as well as an expression of its culture. Do you think it is important for children to be taught art? Do you think children should be encouraged to focus on art rather than other subjects?
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3. BUSINESS/MONEY/ECONOMY
1. ‘Some people think that changing people’s attitudes to other countries, and culture is an important factor in reducing world poverty. Others, however, feel that the most important method is trade.’
2. Some people think that they should spend money they earn now enjoying life, while others think that the money should be put into savings for future.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
3. Some people think that it is best to save money, for example in a bank or savings scheme. Other people feel that money should be spent whenever it is available. Discuss these views and reach an opinion on this debate.
Give reasons for your answer, and support your essay with ideas and examples from your own experience.
4. Economic progress is often used to measure a country's success. However, some people believe that other factors are more important. What other factors should also be considered when measuring a country's success? Do you think one factor is more important than others?
5. "Some people prefer to help by making donations to local charities while some prefer to donate to national & international organizations. Discuss both measures and give your opinion."
6. As well as making money, businesses also have social responsibilities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
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4. CRIME AND PUNISHMENT&LAW
1. Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.
2. There seems to be an increasing number of serious crimes being committed each year. While some think that the best way is to use the death penalty as a deterrent, many people believe that other measures will be needed. Discuss both sides of view.
3. In order to reduce crime, some argue that attacking its cause like poverty is the best solution, while others believe that putting more people in prisons and having more policemen are more convenient way in tackling crime. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
4."Prison is the only truly effective form of punishment, because it separates criminals from society" To what extent do you support this view?
You should give reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples from your own knowledge and experience.
5. Some people who have been in prison become good citizens later, and it is often argued that these are the best people to talk to teenagers about the dangers of committing a crime.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many offenders commit more crimes after serving the first punishment. Why is this happening, and what measures we can take to tackle this problem?
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5. EDUCATION
1. In some developed countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year at the end of high school and before starting university.
What are the pros and cons for young people who choose to do this.
2. In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.
3. The main purpose of a university is to provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed for students to get a good job. To what extent do you agree?
4. Some people believe that children will have a bright future if they are always rewarded by their parents and teachers when they behave well. However, other people argue that if the children misbehave, they should receive punishment so that they can become qualified citizens. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
5. Technology is becoming increasingly prevalent in the world today. In the not too distant future, technology will completely replace the teacher in the classroom. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
6. Some people say that distance learning is a quick and effective way to study. Others, however, disagree and say that distance learning programs can never be as good as courses taken in person. Do you agree or disagree with the statement?
7. Some people believe all children should be taught together. Others say that they should be separated according to academic abilities. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
8. Some people believe that teaching children at home is best for a child’s development while others think that it is important for children to go to school. Discuss the advantages of both methods and give your own opinion.
9. Schools are spending more time teaching traditional subjects such as history. Some people think they should rather spend more time in teaching skills that can help students find a job. To what extent do you agree or disagree.
10. Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
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6. ENTERTAINMENT/HOBBY/LEISURE TIME
1. Youngsters these days find hardly any time for leisure. Is this a positive development? What are the causes of this? If this is a problem, can you suggest solutions?
2. Many people today are worried about young children using video games. What problems might these games cause, for children and society as a whole? How could these problems be reduced?
You should give reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples from your own knowledge and experience.
3. Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be enjoyable. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
4. Some people regard video games as harmless fun, or even as a useful educational tool. Others, however, believe that videos games are having an adverse effect on the people who play them. In your opinion, do the drawbacks of video games outweigh the benefits?
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7. ENVIRONMENT/NATURE/CLIMATE/ANIMAL
1. Global warming is one of the most serious issues that the world is facing today.
What are the causes of global warming and what measures can governments and individuals take to tackle the issue?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.
2. There are many extinct animals’ species in the world. Some people think we should protect animals from dying out, while others believe we should spend more time on problems of human beings. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
3. Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
4. Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
5. The world's air pollution levels are rising year on year. What are the most pressing causes and effects of this disturbing trend?
6. Nowadays there is a rapid increase in the use of natural resources such as oil, forest and fresh water. What dangers does it bring? What are the possible solutions to address these issues?
7. Explain some of the ways in which humans are damaging the environment. What can governments do to address these problems? What can individual people do?
8. Some people feel that it is always wrong to keep animals in captivity, for instance in zoos. Other people say that there are benefits for the animals and for humans. Discuss both sides of this debate, and give your personal view.
You should give reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples from your own knowledge and experience.
9. Nowadays animal experiments are widely 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.
10. Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement.

To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?
8. FAMILY, FRIENDS, CHILDREN
1. Some people say that cities are a better place for children to grow up, while others believe countryside is the right choice. Discuss both views.
2. Nowadays children spend more time playing computer games than doing sports. Why is it happening? Does it have a positive or negative effect on their development?
3. Children do not respect their parents as much as they did in the past. This behaviour is now having a negative impact on society.
4. Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
5."Children are facing more pressures nowadays from academic, social and commercial perspectives.
What are the causes of these pressures and what measures should be taken to reduce these pressures?
6."Mothers play key roles in the upbringing of children. But in the recent times both parents are getting busy with professional life. Who in your opinion should take the responsibility of child care now?" Give your opinion in no less than 250 words.
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9. FOOD
1. For a long time there has been concern about the quality of the food we eat because of additives and contaminants. Recently genetically modified (GM) food has become more common, causing concern. Is this concern justified or not?
2. Even though organic fruits and vegetables are more expensive than conventional fruits and vegetables, they are worth the extra cost. Do you agree or disagree.
3. Everyone should follow a vegetarian diet because it is not necessary to eat meat to be healthy.
Do you agree or disagree?
4. In some countries an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is therefore necessary for governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
5."It is noticeable that fast food consumption has increased substantially during the last 10 years. Discuss its impact on environment and health."
10. GENDER ISSUES
1. "World history suggests that violence and conflict were more evident under male leadership that under female leadership. So. for peace to prevail, female leadership can be considered as a better option that male leadership." Do you agree or disagree?
2. Universities should enrol equal numbers of male and female students in all subjects. Do you agree or disagree?
3. In some schools and universities, girls choose arts subjects (literature), and boys tend to choose science subjects (physics). Why do you think this is so?
4. Many people believe that women make better parents than men and that is why they have the greater role in raising children in most societies. Others claim that men are just as good as women at parenting.
11. GLOBAL ISSUES/GLOBALIZATION
1. Even though globalization affects the world’s economies in a very positive way, its negative side should not be forgotten. Discuss.
2. The world is heavily dependent on oil for energy. Do you think a future re-source will take oil's place? Why do you think this?
3. Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for the development of poorer nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the poorer nations in such areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
4.Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for the development of poorer nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the poorer nations in such areas.
5. The continued rise in the world’s population is the greatest problem faced by humanity at the present time. What are the causes of this continued rise? Do you agree that it is the greatest problem faced by humanity?
6. Many countries today are experiencing high levels of migration from rural areas to cities. What are the causes of this trend, and what effects does it have on the existing city dwellers?
7. In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations.
8. We cannot help everyone in the world that needs help, so we should only be concerned with our own communities and countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
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12. GOVERNMENT
1. Some People think that the government is wasting money on the arts and that this money could be better spent elsewhere. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
2. Some people think governments should take measures to improve the health of its citizens. Others think it must be managed by individuals. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
3. Few people devote time to hobbies nowadays. Why you think this is the case and what effect this has on the individual and society in general.
Differences between countries are becoming less. Nowadays people all over the world are adopting similar fashion and trends. Do you think disadvantages outweigh the advantages?
4. Differences between countries are becoming less. Nowadays people all over the world are adopting similar fashion and trends. Do you think disadvantages outweigh the advantages?
5. "Should Government be responsible for providing pure drinking water to all or should the people obtain their own water?"
6. Some people think that governments should give financial support to creative artists such as painters and musicians. Others believe that creative artists should be funded by alternative sources. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
7. In many cities the use of video cameras in public places is being increased in order to reduce crime, but some people believe that these measures restrict our individual freedom.
Do the benefits of increased security outweigh the drawbacks?
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13. HEALTH
1. Currently there is a trend towards the use of alternative forms of medicine. However, at best these methods are ineffective, and at worst they may be dangerous.
To what extent do you agree with this statement?
2.All over the world, the number of overweight people is growing. What do you feel are the main causes of this? What are the effects?
3. Many doctors are concerned about the high use of computer games by children and young people. What mental and physical problems may arise from excessive use of these games? How could these problems be reduced?
4. In many countries today, there are concerns about the unhealthy lifestyles that people lead. What health issues are linked to modern lifestyles? What answers to these problems can you suggest?
Give reasons for your answer, and support your essay with ideas and examples from your own experience.
5. Some people say that the best way to improve public health is to increase the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
6. Many office authorities impose restriction on smoking within the offices premises. Some governments have even banned smoking in all public places. This is a good idea but it takes away some of our freedom.
What are your opinions on this?
Use your own knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
7. In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations.
8.The growing number of overweight people is putting a strain on the health care system in an effort to deal with the health issues involved. Some people think that the best way to deal with this problem is to introduce more physical education lessons in the school curriculum. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
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14. LANGUAGE
1. Several languages die every year. Many people feel this is a positive trend and that a world with fewer languages promotes harmony and understanding between people. Analyze both sides of this argument and provide your opinion.
2. Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are spoken by very small numbers of people. Some people say that governments should spend public money on saving these languages, while others believe that would be a waste of money.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
3. Nowadays, more and more foreign students are going to English-Speaking countries to learn the “international” language – English. It is undoubtedly true that studying English in an English-speaking country is the best way, but it is not the only way to learn it.
Use your own knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
4. The development of tourism contributed to English becoming the most prominent language in the world. Some people think this will lead to English becoming the only language to be spoken globally.
What are the advantages and disadvantages to having one language in the world?
15. MEDIA/SOCIAL MEDIA
1. Today, the expensive price of popular consumer products is because of the power of advertising and not the real needs of people. Do you agree or disagree?
2. News editors decide what to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you think influence these decisions? Have we become used to bad news? Wouldn’t it be better if more good news was reported?
3. News editors decide what to broadcast on television and what to write in newspapers. What factors influence these decisions? Do you think we become used to bad news? Should more good news be reported?
4. Nowadays there are more and more advertisements. Some people think that they have a negative influence on people, and therefore should be restricted.
Do you agree or disagree?
5. Many people believe that media coverage of celebrities is having a negative effect on children.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
6. "Advertisements of toys and fast foods are obstacles to children’s physical and mental development, and, at the same time, cause loss of time and money of parents." Give your opinion in no less than 250 words.
7. Many people believe that social networking sites (such as Facebook) have had a huge negative impact on both individuals and society.
To what extent do you agree?
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16. SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY
1. Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology. In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships people make? Has this become a positive or negative development?
2. Smart devices have put all of the world's information at our fingertips. The benefits of this development are obvious, but what are the drawbacks?
3. Since the 18th century technological advances have replaced people in the workplace. With today’s technology this process is happening at a greater rate. Technology is increasingly responsible for unemployment.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
4. There are many problems caused by mobile phones. What are the advantages of mobile phones? What are the disadvantages?
5. Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that people make? Has this been a positive or negative development?
6. Smart devices have put all of the world's information at our fingertips. The benefits of this development are obvious, but what are the drawbacks?
7. Many people today are worried about cybercrimes such as hacking and identity theft. What problems does `cybercrime' cause, and what solutions can you suggest for ordinary people and businesses to take?
8. Do you support the use of nuclear technology to be used for constructive purposes?
Use your own knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
9. The advent of the internet has made it possible for people to work from home. Write an essay looking at the advantages and disadvantages of this professional arrangement. Share personal examples in your essay.
10. The advent of the internet has made it possible for people to work from home. Do you feel this working arrangement has more advantages or disad¬vantages? Share personal examples in your essay.
11. Internet crime is increasing rapidly as growing numbers of people purchase goods over the internet. What can be done to tackle this problem?
12. The advent of the internet has made it possible for people to work from home. Do you feel this working arrangement has more advantages or disadvantages? Share personal examples in your essay.
13. Some people regard video games as harmless fun, or even as a useful educational tool. Others, however, believe that videos games are having an adverse effect on the people who play them. In your opinion, do the drawbacks of video games outweigh the benefits?
14. Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that people make? Has this been a positive or negative development?
17. SOCIETY/SOCIAL PROLEMS/SOCIAL TRENDS
1. “Although abuse of the system is inevitable, social welfare payments are essential to protect the rights citizens have to a guaranteed minimum income in a democratic society”
Discuss.
2. It is sometimes said that the countryside offers a high quality of life, especially for families. What are the arguments for and against families choosing to live and work in the countryside, for example as farmers? What is your own view about this?
3. "City Planners' new designs include setting up schools, markets, and commercial places (offices) in different areas of the city. Do you think it will help the city dwellers?"
4. Youth drug abuse is a serous problem. What are the possible causes of this behavior? Do you have any suggestion to control that? Use your own knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
5. The older generations tend to have very traditional ideas about how people should live, think and behave. However, some people believe that these ideas are not helpful in preparing younger generations for modern life.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
18. SPORTS
1. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair.
Discus both these views and give your own opinion.
2. "Cricket has become more popular than the national sports in the sub-continental countries ."What do you think are the reasons behind this?
3. Some people believe that sport is an essential part of school life for children, while others feel it should be purely optional. Discuss these opposing views and give your own opinion.
You should give reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples from your own knowledge and experience.
4. Popular events like the football World Cup and other international sporting occasions are essential in easing international tensions and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way.
19. TRANSPORT
1. Transport delays and long journey times are a widespread phenomenon in many cities today. What are the causes of this problem, and how could the situation be improved?
2. Everyday traffic seems to get worse on our roads. How can we reduce the number of cars on our roads today? What alternatives can we offer car drivers?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
3. In order to solve traffic problems, governments should tax private car owners heavily and use the money to improve public transportation.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of such a solution?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.
4. Some people think that strict punishments for driving offences are the key to reducing traffic accidents. Others, however, believe that other measures would be more effective in improving road safety. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
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20. TRAVEL/TOURISM
1. Many people believe that international tourism is a bad thing for their own countries. What are the reasons? What are the solutions to change negative attitudes?
2. Restricting air travel is the only way to prevent air pollution. Do you agree?
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task and write at least 250 words.
3. Tourism is always a force for good which enables people of different countries to understand each other.'
To what extent do you agree with this idea?
4. Some people like to travel outside of their countries. Others would rather travel to the tourist spots in their own country first before travelling abroad. Which do you prefer to do and why? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.
5."By investing in tourism we can earn a lot of revenue and growth in national economy. At the same time it destroys the local culture. What is your opinion?" Give your opinion in no less than 250 words.
6. Today more people are travelling than ever before. Why is this the case? What are the benefits of travelling for the traveller?
7. Foreign visitors should pay more than local visitors for cultural and historical attractions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
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21. WORK
1. Unemployment remains the biggest challenge to school-leavers in most countries’ How far do you agree with this assessment? What other challenges face young people today?
2. Some people think that having a set retirement (e.g.65 years) for everybody, regardless of occupation, is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to retire and receive a pension at an earlier age.
3. Some people think that having a set retirement age (e.g. 65 years) for everybody, regardless of occupation is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to retire and receive a pension at an early age.
Do you agree or disagree?
Which types of workers do you think should benefit from early retirement?
4. Many people today find it difficult to balance the demands of their work and personal life. What are the causes of this situation, and what can individuals and employers do to reduce the problem?
You should give reasons for your answer, and include ideas and examples from your own knowledge and experience.
5. Most employers do job interviews before offering a position to a person. Do you think this is the best way to do it, or are there better alternatives? What is the best method of choosing employees in your opinion?
6. Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it. This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life.
To what extent do you agree with this view?
What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working life?
7. "Changing jobs and residences frequently is a very common scenario nowadays. Do you believe that this is good for one's future?"
8. Men do most high level jobs. Should the government encourage a certain percentage of to be reserved for women?
9. The most important thing about a job is how much money you earn in that job. Do you agree or disagree?
10. Some employers offer their employees subsidised membership of gyms and sports clubs, believing that this will make their staff healthier and thus more effective at work. Other employers see no benefit in doing so. Consider the arguments from both aspects of this possible debate, and reach a conclusion.
11. Many people are working at home rather than in the workplace. Some people believe this will bring benefits to the workers and their families, but others suggest it will cause stress in the home. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
12. The advent of the internet has made it possible for people to work from home. Write an essay looking at the advantages and disadvantages of this professional arrangement. Share personal examples in your essay.
13. When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
14. Completing university education is thought by some to be the best way to get a good job. On the other hand, other people think that getting experience and developing soft skills is more important.
Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
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22. OTHERS/ABSTRACT IDEAS-HAPPINESS, SUCCESS ETC.
1. In achieving personal happiness, our relationships with family, friends, and colleagues are more important than work and wealth. Do you agree or disagree with this?
2. In achieving personal happiness, our relationships with family, friends, and colleagues are more important than work and wealth. Do you agree or disagree with this?
3."Some people think that hard work and determination are the keys to success in life. Some, on the other hand, think that there are other factors behind a successful life. Give your opinion."
5. Nowadays celebrities are more known for their glamour and wealth than for their achievement, and this sets a bad example to young people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
6. Some people believe famous people’s support for international aid organizations draw public attention. Others think celebrities reduce the importance of the problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
7. Whether someone achieves their goal or not is a question of luck. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
8. Happiness is considered very important in life.
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?
9. Some people think that money is one of the most essential factors in promoting happiness.
Do you think people can be happy without much money?
What other factors contribute towards happiness?