ielts important essay topics with answers

8+ IELTS essay topics with Answers, Writing Task 2 Samples

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The IELTS writing section is one of the essential components of the IELTS exam as it evaluates your ability to express yourself effectively in written English.

Consisting of two tasks, Writing Task 1 and Writing Task 2 , this section aims to measure your skills in presenting information and opinions, as well as your capacity to organise and articulate ideas coherently.

As a result, it's important to know the most common essay topics for IELTS that are likely to come up.

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In this guide, we will discuss the latest IELTS essay topics for 2024 and give you some tips on how to approach them.

Table of Contents

Ielts writing task 2 for academic, 1. opinion essays, 2. discussion essays, 3. solution essays, 4. advantage or disadvantage essays, 5. direct question essays, 1. education, 2. technology, 3. environment, what are the topics for ielts writing, what is the most important essay for ielts, what are the common essay topics for ielts task 2, can i write 400 words in an ielts essay, is 7.0 a good ielts writing score, what happens if i don't write 250 words in ielts, what are the 3 essay types in ielts writing.

These topics are often repeated in IELTS exams , so make sure you are prepared for them!

Read also: IELTS tips and tricks to score high

IELTS Writing Task 2 for Academic assesses your ability to present and support an argument or opinion on a specific topic related to academic subjects or general issues. 

It consists of 2 tasks:

• IELTS Writing Task 1: It assesses your ability to interpret and describe visual information accurately. In this task, you are presented with a graph, chart, table, diagram, or process, and are required to write a short report summarising the information presented.
• IELTS Writing Task 2 : It assesses your ability to present and support an argument or opinion on a specific topic related to academic subjects or general issues. It requires you to express ideas coherently, use relevant examples, and maintain a well-structured essay format.

Types of IELTS essays

IELTS essays are divided into 5 main categories. These are:

Opinion essays require you to express your viewpoint on a given topic. You need to clearly state whether you agree or disagree with a statement and support your opinion with relevant arguments and examples.

“You say if you agree or disagree, back it up with good reasons.”

Sample IELTS essay writing topics:

• In your opinion, should the government invest more in space exploration or environmental conservation?
• Do you believe that social media has a positive impact on mental health?
• Some people argue that zoos are essential for animal conservation. What is your opinion on this matter?
• Is it better to raise children in a single-parent family or a two-parent family? Give reasons for your opinion.
• In your opinion, should school uniforms be mandatory for all students?
• Do you think that violent video games contribute to aggressive behavior in children?
• Some people believe that professional athletes are overpaid. Do you agree or disagree with this view?

Discussion essays demand a balanced analysis of a topic by exploring both sides of an argument. You need to present the main points for each perspective and provide a thoughtful discussion.

“You need to show both sides of a topic and talk about them fairly.”

• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using renewable energy sources over fossil fuels.
• What are the benefits and drawbacks of online education compared to traditional classroom learning?"
• Examine the impact of globalisation on local cultures and traditions.
• Discuss the pros and cons of the growing popularity of online shopping.
• Compare and contrast the advantages and disadvantages of living in a city versus living in a rural area.
• Examine the impact of technology on interpersonal communication in today's society.
• Discuss the positive and negative effects of immigration on a country's economy.

Solution essays require you to identify a problem and propose effective solutions to address it. You need to analyse the causes of the issue and present practical remedies.

“You talk about a problem and give practical ideas to fix it.”

• What are the main causes of traffic congestion in urban areas, and what measures can be taken to alleviate it?
• Discuss the steps that can be taken to reduce the use of plastic and promote eco-friendly alternatives.
• Explain how governments can encourage citizens to adopt healthier eating habits and combat obesity.
• What can be done to address the issue of unemployment among young people?
• "Discuss the measures that can be implemented to reduce air pollution in major cities.
• How can governments promote renewable energy adoption and decrease reliance on fossil fuels?
• Explain the steps that individuals can take to reduce their carbon footprint and combat climate change.

Advantage or disadvantage essays involve analyzing the positive and negative aspects of a particular subject or situation.

“You look at the good and bad parts of something.”

• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using artificial intelligence in various industries.
• What are the pros and cons of globalisation on the economies of developing countries?
• Examine the benefits and drawbacks of studying abroad for higher education.
• Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of using social media for personal communication.
• What are the positive and negative effects of tourism on local communities and the environment?
• Explain the advantages and disadvantages of using nuclear power as a source of energy.
• Discuss the benefits and drawbacks of the increasing reliance on online banking and digital transactions.

Also read: 12 best books for IELTS exam preparation

Direct question essays consist of several direct questions related to a specific topic. You need to answer these questions comprehensively.

“You answer specific questions about a topic.”

• Should governments invest more in public transportation or road infrastructure? Why?
• Do you believe that the use of animals for scientific research is justified? Why or why not?
• What are the key factors that contribute to job satisfaction? How can job satisfaction be improved?
• Should children be given access to smartphones at a young age? What are the potential consequences?
• Do you think that the death penalty should be abolished worldwide? Why or why not?
• What are the challenges of an ageing population, and how can societies address them?
• Should fast-food advertising be restricted to combat the rise in obesity rates among children? Why?

Also read: List of IELTS vocabulary words

8 Common IELTS Essay Topics

Here are the common IELTS essay topics

• Environment

IELTS essays can cover a wide range of topics, but some topics often appear in the exam. Let's explore The 8 most common IELTS essay topics:

Education is one of the most popular and influential topics for IELTS essays.

Education can take many forms, from formal education in a classroom to informal education through life experiences.

For example, in an essay about education, you could discuss the importance of formal education, the benefits and drawbacks of different types of schooling or teaching methods, or even the impact of technology on education.

Education is a complex and interesting subject. When writing an education-related essay, make sure you research different education systems around the world and provide examples to support your assertions.

Additionally, consider how education can affect different aspects of life, such as economic development or social mobility.

Depending on the question prompt and your personal opinion, you can craft compelling essays that make strong statements about education in general or focus more narrowly on particular aspects, such as technology's role in modern classroom settings.

Additionally, it helps to have a few concrete examples for supporting evidence so that your argument is convincing and well-rounded. Education is a broad topic, but with careful thought, any student can write an essay that impresses the IELTS examiners.

🎥 Watch our IELTS Lessons Playlist on YouTube . Our expert instructor covers all modules: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking.

Technology is one of the ten common IELTS essay topics and is becoming increasingly relevant in modern society.

Technology-related essays ask you to discuss the potential impact of technological solutions on an issue or analyze how technology has been used for progress in a particular field.

Technology can be used as both a positive and negative force, so it's important to consider both sides when tackling these types of IELTS essays. Be sure to explore various opinions and provide reliable evidence to support your points.

Technology should also be discussed regarding its implications for the future, particularly within the context of global development goals. In any case, keep in mind that technology should always be analyzed with a critical eye and thoughtful insight into its impacts on society.

When writing IELTS essays on technology, always use clear and thoughtful language that considers the future implications of this dynamic force.

By understanding the various facets of technology and approaching essay topics with an open mind, you'll be well-prepared to tackle any tech-related IELTS essay you encounter.

The environment is a popular topic for IELTS essays, and it's no surprise why.

Environment-related issues are growing in importance due to the impacts of climate change, pollution, and resource depletion.

As such, there are various IELTS essay topics that may focus on these issues. Examples include:

• Discussing ways to protect our environment from pollution
• Identifying strategies for reducing waste
• Examining the effects of global warming
• Studying methods of sustainable development
• Exploring how to conserve natural resources
• Investigating approaches to preserving biodiversity
• Analyzing the impact of climate change
• Evaluating renewable energy sources
• Proposing solutions to environmental problems
• Comparing environmental protection strategies in different countries.

It is important to keep up with current events and research related to environmental protection to provide relevant examples when writing your essays.

With the right preparation, you can ensure that your IELTS essay stands out from the crowd!

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Work is an important topic in both Work & Study essays, which are commonly seen on IELTS exams.

Work can refer to any job or career someone has chosen to pursue, whether they are paid or unpaid. Work essays typically end with a discussion of future trends related to the topic. It would be best if you explored both sides of this issue before concluding.

Work-related topics that often appear in IELTS essays include globalization and its effect on labour markets, automation and technological advances in the workplace, new forms of employment such as freelancing or gig economy jobs, part-time or flexible working, and the ethical implications of unpaid labour.

Brainstorming different perspectives on these topics is important to develop a well-rounded essay.

Work is an interesting and often contentious topic that many students are passionate about, so it's important to ensure your arguments are clear and persuasive. Work essays require much thought and research to earn a high score on IELTS exams.

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Culture is a popular IELTS essay topic due to its broad scope and complexity.

Culture can include anything from national traditions, customs, lifestyles, artwork, holidays, and cuisine. Culture also reflects a country's history and values, making it an important topic of discussion in the IELTS exam.

Essays on culture may ask you to discuss how culture affects society or how particular cultural aspects have changed over time. In addition, you may be asked about your own cultural experiences or views on certain cultures worldwide.

To prepare for this type of essay, you should research different cultures and be familiar with key elements such as language, religious beliefs, values, and rituals.

Being able to draw examples from various countries will help demonstrate your understanding of the complex nature of culture.

Also read: Describe a daily routine that you enjoy

Crime is a popular topic among IELTS essay questions.

Crime involves any behaviour that goes against social norms and laws, such as robbery, theft, murder, assault or even drug trafficking.

Therefore, it is important to consider both sides of an argument when writing about crime; for example, looking at both the benefits and drawbacks of harsher punishments or greater law enforcement.

Crime essay topics may include discussing the causes and effects of crime, how to tackle it, or its impact on society.

Examples of crime essay questions could involve researching the increase in juvenile delinquency, discussing effective strategies to reduce cybercrime, or providing solutions for tackling alcohol-related offences.

It is also important to provide evidence from reliable sources to support your opinion and make a compelling argument. The more informed you are about current issues concerning crime, the better prepared you will be when tackling this question type.

Ensure that your conclusion summarizes your views on crime and provides reasoned arguments that support them.

Related article: IELTS preparation books

Health is a common topic in IELTS essays, as health and well-being are integral parts of our lives.

You might be asked about health services, health care systems, health promotion, or health education. You may also be asked to discuss the causes and effects of public health issues such as obesity.

To answer these questions successfully, you need to understand health policies and current global health trends.

You should also include sound arguments explaining why certain approaches should be used to address health problems. Citing examples from your own experience or research can help strengthen your essay and make it more convincing.

Moreover, if you can provide health-related statistics, this can also help to illustrate the seriousness of health issues.

Health is an important topic in IELTS essays, and by properly researching and understanding health policies and global health trends, you can write effective essays on the subject.

You might also like: Score high on IELTS Speaking Exam

Family is another common IELTS essay topic.

Addressing issues such as nuclear versus extended families, parenting styles, gender roles in the home, or traditional versus modern family dynamics are all valid approaches when writing about this topic.

In any case, make sure you use relevant examples to illustrate your point and develop a logical and well-structured argument.

Family can be explored from different angles, ranging from exploring changes in family structure and values to discussing the roles of parents and children within the family dynamic.

It is also possible to write about how families interact with society or how they have adapted over generations to produce a unique culture.

Another important issue to consider when writing about family is how it has been affected by technological and social advancements. Exploring topics such as technology's impact on family life or how a changing society has led to different expectations of parents can provide interesting insights into the topic of family.

With such a wide range of possibilities, family can make for an interesting and thought-provoking essay topic on the IELTS exam.

The IELTS essays cover a wide range of topics and have been designed to test students' writing abilities.

These above-mentioned topics are the eight most common for IELTS essays, but many other potential topics could come up in your exam.

With practice and commitment, any student can become skilled in writing compelling content for the IELTS exam.

Frequently asked questions

IELTS writing topics cover a wide range of subjects, including education, health, technology, environment, society, work, and more. 

Both Task 1 and Task 2 essays hold importance in IELTS writing. However, Task 2 is often considered more crucial as it contributes more to your overall writing score and requires you to present and support your viewpoint on a relevant topic.

Common IELTS Task 2 essay topics include subjects like climate change, technology's impact, education systems, health, social issues, and cultural diversity.

While there's no strict word limit, it's advisable to aim for around 250 to 300 words for Task 2 essays. Writing excessively, such as 400 words, might lead to less focused and coherent content. It's essential to prioritize clarity and quality over word count.

A writing score of 7.0 in IELTS is generally considered good and reflects a strong level of language proficiency. 

Not meeting the recommended word count of around 250 words in Task 2 essays could potentially lead to a lower score. 

The three main essay types in IELTS writing Task 2 are opinion essays, discussion essays, and solution essays.

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50 Recent IELTS Essay Questions

Hey! It is so important that when you sit down to practice IELTS writing, you only use questions that are “genuine”. This means using either questions that come from the IELTS Cambridge 1 – 15   series or those that have been created by an exam writer like those in my 100 IELTS essay question blog post.  However, many students like to practice recent IELTS essay questions i.e. topics that have been reported by recent test-takers.

I understand why students want to do this – knowing what the recent IELTS essays questions are and checking that you can answer them is reassuring. However, unfortunately, test-takers rarely (if ever) manage to accurately remember the wording of the question that they had in their test.

Can they remember the general topic? Sure.

Can they remember the exact wording? Definitely not!

Sadly, changing even one word in a test can change the focus of a question and, therefore, make it impossible to answer! So, every month, I collect 50 recent IELTS essay questions from students in  My IELTS Classroom  , and edit them so that they are as close to perfect as possible.

Plus, I divide the questions into Academic and General Training (so you can be sure you are tackling the right type of questions) and have highlighted the main topic of each question for you.

This page is updated monthly and is now showing questions from 2021. If you want to see exam questions that reportedly appeared earlier in 2021, then you can look at our 2021 archive .

As always, these questions are provided so that you can check that you have ideas for the nw topics. If you are preparing with a teacher or want high-quality feedback on your  writing  then you should always use a question from the original IELTS Cambridge Series .

Academic IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021)

1. Some people think that criminal behaviour has genetic causes . Others believe that it is circumstances that lead people to commit a crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

2. Some people think that new houses should be built in the same style as older houses in an area. Others believe that local councils should allow people to choose different designs for their houses. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the best way to teach children to behave well is to punish them. Others argue that rewarding and praising children is a better way to teach them the difference between right and wrong. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

4.  Some people believe that women should be able to join their country’s army and police forces . Others think that only men should be allowed to work in these areas. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

5.  In some countries, there are not enough medical or educational facilities in rural areas. Therefore, some people believe newly graduated teachers and doctors should be sent to work in rural areas for some time. Others think that people should be free to choose where they work after graduation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. A lot of research has shown that overeating can have a number of negative effects on the body. Some people therefore believe that the advertising of certain foods should be banned in the same way that some countries have banned advertising cigarettes. Do you agree or disagree?

7 Some people think that parents should teach their children about the importance of recycling . Others believe recycling should be taught in schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

8. The media has the right to publish information about the personal life of celebrities . To what extent do you agree or disagree?

9. Some people say that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

10. Young people today mostly learn by reading books or watching movies and TV shows , rather than personal experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

11. Big companies should provide sports and social facilities for the local communities where they operate. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

12. Some people argue that thanks to the widespread accessibility of the internet, libraries are no longer necessary. Do you agree or disagree?

13. If asked to choose between a life without work and a life that involves working most of the time, people will always choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

14. Eighteen is the appropriate age for children to finish school. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

15. Schools should stop using books to teach and use films, TV and computers in the classroom instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Writing a good IELTS essay doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow our step-by-step guide to every type of essay to find out what the examiner expects and exactly what you can do to satisfy the band descriptors in our Task Two course. The first three lessons are free!

16. Nowadays foreign visitors show more interest in the museums of a country than its local residents do. Why is this? What can be done to attract more local residents to visit museums in their country?

17 Many companies sponsor sports teams and events to advertise their products or service . What advantages and disadvantages does this bring for the teams and individuals that these companies sponsor?

18. Most information today is available online whereas in the past it was stored in books or on paper. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

19. The difference between countries is becoming less and less evident as people all over the world wear the same fashions, watch the same TV channels, use the same brands, and have similar eating habits. Do you think that the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

20. Nowadays many people get the news online instead of reading it in newspapers or watching it on TV. Is this a positive or negative development?

21. In many countries today the proportion of older people in the population is higher than the proportion of younger people . Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

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22. More and more tasks in the home and at work are being performed by robots . Why do you think this is the case? Is this a negative or positive development?

23. Nowadays tourists and scientists are allowed to travel to remote natural environments . Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

24. Due to population growth many people these days live in apartments with limited space and no outdoor areas. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?

25. Every country in the world has its own road rules , but many drivers don’t obey them. What do you think are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem?

BONUS In many countries, shopping is now one of the most popular types of leisure activity . Why do you so many young people like shopping? Is this a positive or a negative development?

What are the current Aacdemic writing trends?

My observation of the most recent IELTS essay questions from 2021 is that there have been A LOT of Discuss Both Sides and To What Extent questions. In fact, this is more or less all that I have seen in the first month of the new year, so be sure that you are ready to answer these.

GT IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021

1. Some people believe that individuals who earn a lot of money are the most successful in life . Others say that the individuals who contribute to the society (such as scientists or teachers) are more successful. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

2. It is universally accepted that eating too much  sugar has a negative effects on people’s health . Therefore, some believe that the government should control the amount of sugar people consume. Others think that it is the responsibility of an individual to monitor their sugar intake. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the development of technology means that people no longer need to learn the skill of handwriting . Others believe that it is still necessary for people to learn how to write by hand. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

4. Some people believe that individuals over 65 should not be allowed to continue working . Others think that people should be allowed to work for as long as they choose. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

5. Some people think that it is a good idea for parents to help their children with their homework. Others believe that children should do their homework on their own. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. Some people think that the government should spend money on cultural activities such as music or art. Others think this is a waste of taxpayers’ money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

7. Some people think that children should be taught how to become good parents at school . Do you agree or disagree?

8. Many mothers stay at home to take care of their family and don’t go out to work . Some people believe these mothers should be paid by the government. Do you agree or disagree?

9. In many countries, it is common for people to consume fast food. However, some people believe that fast food has too much influence on our lifestyle and diet. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

10. Some people say that playing sports helps to prepare children for their future jobs . Do you agree or disagree?

11. Some people say that the Olympic Games no longer play a role in the 21st century . Do you agree or disagree?

12.   People’s behaviour (for example, their table manners and they way they dress) varies from country to country. When traveling to a different country, people should copy the behaviour and habits of the inhabitants of the country they  visit. Do you agree or disagree?

13.  The best way to increase road safety is to make car drivers retake their driving test every year. Do you agree or disagree?

14.  Some people believe that family is more important than friends . What do you think?

15.  The Internet is the best place to find information . Do you agree or disagree?

16.  In many countries traditional customs are being lost.  Why do you think this is? What can parents and schools do to keep traditional customs alive? 

17.  People who are learning a foreign language can face a number of difficulties. What are some of these problems? In your opinion, what are the best ways to overcome these difficulties?

18. Young people today are often less polite and show less respect than previous generations . Why do you think this is? What can be done to solve this problem? 

19. Developments in technology mean that more and more machines are being used in the workplace instead of human employees. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages?

20. In some countries, young people choose to move from their parents’ home to their own house at an early age. In other countries, young people stay with parents for a longer time. Do you think young people who leave their parent’s home at a younger age have more advantages or disadvantages than those who stay?

21. In many parts of the world, more and more large supermarkets are opening and smaller local shops are closing down. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages for local people?

22. In some countries it is illegal to stop people applying for a job because of their age . Is this a positive or a negative development?

 23.  In many countries, people are earning more money today than in the past, so they are able to buy more things. Is this a positive or a negative development?

24. Nowadays, people prefer to shop at large shopping centres rather than in local shops or markets. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?

25. Nowadays in many countries traditional customs are becoming less popular than in the past . Do you agree or disagree? What can parents and teachers do about this?

BONUS –  Playing team sports at school can teach students a number of lessons that are useful outside of sport. What values can students learn from playing team sports? How can they apply these values in the future? 

What are the current GT writing trends?

So far this year, I have noticed two main trends for the recent IELTS essay questions for General Training students. First, there continue to be more 2-part questions than in the Academic test, and the topics seem to be more and more diverse.

Also, the test writers seem to making small changes to the wording of questions, which don’t actually change what you are expected to do, but may confuse some students. For example, in the past, you were always asked “Is this a positive or negative trend?” but recently the same question has been phrased as:

• Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
• Do you think this is right or wrong?
• Do you think this this a good or bad use of public money?

If you enter the exam room and feel confused by the question, my advice is always to simply answer the question that you have been given.

Yes, there are question types that repeat, but if you are given a direct essay question or a type of question that is unfamiliar, simply focusing on answering the question/s you have been given clearly is always the best approach!

Looking for an IELTS school run by native speakers who have a proven track record of helping students achieve their potential in IELTS? Then come join the students at  My IELTS Classroom  who are using our unique video courses, live lessons and marking service to maximise their scores. 

OK – those are the 50 most recent IELTS essay questions. I will try to do this every month so that you can be sure you have ideas for every possible IELTS question in your exam. Well, maybe not to every question, but at least by practicing with these, you will have sharpened your idea-generation skills . Plus, you can help me by adding any questions that you can remember from a recent IELTS exam in the comments below 🚀

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Recent Questions

In this article, we outline over 250 recent IELTS Writing Task 2 topics and sample questions.

The IELTS Writing Task 2 is an essay writing task that assesses your ability to express and develop an argument in response to a given prompt. As an essential part of the IELTS exam, a high score in writing task 2 can help you achieve your desired overall score.

To score well in the IELTS Writing Task 2, you need to be familiar with all the possible topics that may come up.

Table of Contents

What is the basic structure for ielts writing task 2 in the ielts exam, ielts writing task 2 topics on education, ielts task 2 questions on globalisation, ielts task 2 questions on equality, ielts task 2 questions about the environment, ielts task 2 questions on technology, task 2 questions on travel and transport, task 2 questions on health, task 2 questions on law and order.

• Task 2 questions on Language and Culture
• Task 2 Questions on Government and Society

Task 2 Questions on Sports and Pastimes

Recent writing task 2 questions: january 2024, recent writing task 2 questions: october 2023, recent writing task 2 questions: july 2023, recent writing task 2 questions: april 2023, recent writing task 2 questions: january 2023, recent writing task 2 questions: october 2022, recent task 2 questions: july 2022.

• January to March 2022 recent task 2 questions
• October to December 2021 sample task 2 questions

Sample Task 2 Questions: September 2021

Sample task 2 questions: february / march 2021.

• Sample Task 2 Questions: January 2021
• Task 2 Sample Questions: October/November 2020

IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics: August 2020 

Task 2 questions: march 2020, task 2 essay questions: january 2020, recent exam task 2 questions: october 2019, task 2 sample questions: september 2019, task 2 questions: august 2019.

• Task 2 questions: June 2019

Task 2 questions: January 2019

Writing task 2 questions: december 2018, task 2 questions: november 2018.

• Writing task 2 questions: October 2018
• Writing task 2 questions: September 2018

Writing task 2 questions: August 2018

Latest writing task 2 questions: july 2018 (education), latest writing task 2 questions: july 2018.

• March – April 2019 task 2 questions

VIDEO: Recent 2022 questions and sample answers for IELTS Writing Task 2 

• Frequently Asked Questions

The IELTS writing exam is split into two parts and task 2 is worth 66% of your score.

The IELTS writing task 2 is an essay writing task that assesses your ability to express and develop an argument in response to a given topic.

You are allocated 40 minutes to write it.

On the official British Council site there are documents that state your essay must contain at least 250 words, however, in the official criteria, there is no mention of 250 words.

The basic structure for IELTS writing task 2 in the IELTS exam is as follows:

• Introduction : Be sure to state the question in your own words in your introduction so that you introduce the topic of your task 2. Task 2 statements are often a paraphrasing of the initial question.
• Support your opinion : Once you have made your opinion clear, you have to provide facts to justify your choice
• State the opposing point of you . You do not have to persuade the examiner about the opposing opinion, but it is important to state what it is. 
• Summarise your opinion.

Below you will find a variety of task 2 essay topics that have been seen by students on their IELTS exams. By practising with these writing task 2 topics, you prepare yourself to write an essay about a wide range of topics.

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For a FREE ebook PDF of our top 10 sample essays, click here!

Common Essay Topics for IELTS Writing Task 2

Preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2 requires familiarizing yourself with common essay topics that may appear on the IELTS exam.

Having knowledge of these topics can help you prepare well and increase your chances of scoring high.

Below are some of the most common essay topics for the IELTS Writing Task 2 exam.

• Globalisation
• Environment
• Travel and transport
• Law and order
• Language and culture
• Government and society
• Sports and pastimes

In IELTS writing task 2, test takers may be presented with essay topics related to education.

Some writing task 2 education topics may focus on the benefits and drawbacks of traditional education or the role of technology in modern learning.

Here’s a sample task 2 question about education:

Some people think that a person improves intellectual skills better when doing group activities.  To what extent do you agree? Use specific details and examples to explain your view. 

Read more IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics on Education here

Writing task 2 often features essay topics related to globalisation, requiring test takers to express their views and opinions on the subject.

The essay question themes may include the far-reaching impacts of globalisation on economies, societies, and cultures around the world.

Here’s a sample task 2 question about globalisation:

Many people say that globalisation and the growing number of multinational companies have a negative effect on the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Use specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Read more IELTS Task 2 questions on Globalisation here

In IELTS writing task 2, test takers are often presented with essay topics related to equality, asking them to explore issues such as gender equality, racial equality, and economic inequality.

Here’s a sample task 2 question about equality:

Nowadays both men and women spend a lot of money on beauty care. This was not so in the past. What may be the root cause of this behaviour? Discuss the reasons and possible results.

Read more IELTS task 2 questions on Equality here

Writing task 2 often features environment-related essay topics, requiring test takers to discuss issues such as pollution, conservation, and sustainable development.

Here’s a sample task 2 question about the environment:

Environmental issues such as climate change have always been an international problem because governments are not imposing harsh punishments against offenders. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Support your answer with specific reasons and examples.

Read more IELTS task 2 questions on the Environment here

In IELTS writing task 2, test takers are often given essay topics related to technology, requiring them to explore topics such as the benefits and drawbacks of technology, the role of technology in society, and the potential impact of emerging technologies.

Here’s a sample task 2 question about technology:

What technologies did you use to help you in your studies? Describe how it has helped you. Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.

Read more IELTS Task 2 questions on Technology here

In the IELTS writing exam, test takers may be required to discuss and write about travel and transport essay topics.

Here’s a sample task 2 question about travel and transport:

In many countries, people tend to move overseas or move to a different part of their country after their retirement. Discuss why they do so and what the outcome of this situation is. Provide specific reasons and examples to support your opinion

Read more Task 2 questions on Travel and Transport here.

Some people think that keeping pets is good for children while others think it is dangerous and unhealthy. Which opinion do you agree with? Discuss both options and give examples.

Read more Task 2 questions on Health here

Some people believe that once a person becomes a criminal, he will always be a criminal. Do you agree with this statement? Provide specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.

Read more  Task 2 questions on Law and Order here.

Task 2 Questions on Language and Culture

Compared to the past, more people are now trying to learn a foreign language to increase their chances of landing a better job in their native country or having better opportunities to work abroad. To what extent do you agree with this point of view? Give specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.

Read more Task 2 questions on language and culture here.

Task 2 Questions on Government and society

Should the government support artists, such as musicians, writers, and painters? Is it economically beneficial or is it just a waste of money? Why or why not?

Read more Task 2 questions on Government and society here.

International sporting events are costly and bring problems to the hosting country. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give specific reasons and examples to support your position.

Read more Task 2 questions on Sports and Pastimes here

Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics and Answers 

• Band 6.5 essay about marriage (includes ex-ielts examiner commentary)
• Band 9 essay about education (includes ex-ielts examiner commentary)

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Recent IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions from July 2018 till date

Below are past essay questions from previous years as seen by students in their exams.

These sample questions will help you prepare and better know what to expect in your task 2 exam.

Feel free to send us your task 2 questions if you have recently taken the IELTS exam.

• In many countries, it is mandatory for school children to wear uniforms. Do the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
• Many museums charge for admission while others are free. Do you think the advantages of charging people for admission outweigh the disadvantages?
• Ambition is a positive quality for people to have in society today. How important is it for people who want to succeed in life? Is it a positive or negative characteristic?
• Research has shown that the transportation of products and people are the main source of pollution. Some people believe the government should be in charge of this, while others believe it is the fault of individuals. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience. 
• Extreme sports such as skydiving and rock climbing are very dangerous and should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
• These days more people put their personal information, such as names, addresses and telephone numbers, online for everyday activities such as socialising on social networks or banking purposes. Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
• The leaders or directors of organizations are often older people. But some people say that young people can also be a leader. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some people believe that people living in the twenty-first century have a better standard of living as compared to previous centuries. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
• A portion of the human population believes that criminal behaviour has its roots in genes. Others think that circumstances lead people to commit crimes. Discuss your take on both views and put forward your opinions. 
• Some people think the government should provide free housing, while others believe it is not the government’s responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion
• Some people believe the purpose of education is to prepare individuals to be beneficial to society. Others say the purpose of education is to achieve personal ambitions. Discuss both views and give your own opinion
• With the growing population of cities, more and more people live in homes that have little or no outdoor area. Is this a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
• It has been suggested that all young adults should be required to undertake a period of unpaid work helping people in the community. Would the drawbacks of such a requirement be greater than the benefits to the community and the individual young adults?
• Some think dangerous extreme sports such as skydiving and rock climbing should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays, most countries improve their living standards through economic development. However, some social values are lost as a result. Do you think the advantages of the phenomenon outweigh the disadvantages?
• Although countries with long average working hours are economically successful, this often has some negative social consequences. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining. Why do you think this is happening? How can this issue be solved? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
• Some people think that activities during free time should be planned while others disagree. Discuss both sides and include examples and relevant data from your own experience.
• The tendency of news reports in the media to focus more on problems and emergencies than on positive developments is harmful to individuals and society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
• Some people think the government should support artists like painters, musicians, and poets, while others believe this wastes money. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Earlier technology developments brought more benefits and changed the lives of ordinary people more than recent developments ever will. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• These days more and more people are going to other countries for a significant period either to find a job or study. There are clearly many benefits to doing this, but people who live abroad can also face some difficulties.Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living and working in a foreign country. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
• Nowadays online shopping is extremely popular. Discuss the impact of it on the environment and on people who lost their jobs because of it.
• In some countries the government promotes public transport as the primary means of transportation, and discourages private vehicle ownership. Do you think the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages?
• Nowadays, most children prefer to spend several hours playing with electronic devices over doing more traditional leisure activities.What problem does this cause? What do you think are possible solutions?
• It is believed that secondary school children should study international news as one of their school subjects. Others think that this is a waste of valuable school time. Discuss both views and give your opinions.
• Some people think it’s better to choose friends who always have the same opinions as them. Other people believe it’s good to have friends who sometimes disagree with them. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• Fast food is a part of life in many places. Some people think this has bad effects on lifestyle and diets. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some people encourage watching sports as a way of learning about teamwork and strategy, while others believe that one can learn these skills only through playing sports. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
• Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• Although parents are responsible for raising a child, outside influence plays a key role in their development. To what extent do you agree or disagree
• Movies and tv shows are a good way to study history despite their lack of historical accuracy at times. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays, instead of locally sourced produce, many supermarkets sell a variety of foods imported from countries all across the world. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?
• Rising university fees and scarce employment prospects for graduates have led some people to say that universities should not teach arts subjects, like philosophy and history, and only offer practical degree courses that maximise chances of employment. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give a reason for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
• In some parts of the world, traditional festivals and celebrations have disappeared or are disappearing. Why is this happening? What measures could be taken to ensure they do not disappear?
• Some people believe that using taxpayer funds to look for life on other planets is important. Others, however, think that it is a waste of public money because there are many more important issues requiring funding on our own planet. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between equality and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in egalitarian societies. Others believe that high levels of personal achievement are possible only if individuals are free to succeed or fail according to their individual merits. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
• Our personalities are predetermined as a result of our genes before we are born and there is nothing that can be done to change our character traits. To what extent do you agree?
• Some people believe that teaching children at home is best for a child’s development while others think it is important for children to go to school. Discuss both the advantages of each method and give your own opinion
• As the number of cars increases, more money has to be spent on road systems. Some people think the government should pay for this. Others, however, think that drivers should cover the costs. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people suggest that a country should try to produce all the food for its population and import as little food as possible. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Museums and art galleries should concentrate on local works rather than showing the cultures or artworks from other countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Online currencies have become more common in recent years. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?
• Many customs and traditional ways of behaviour are no longer relevant to the modern life and not worth keeping. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some think secondary and high school students should be allowed to choose academic courses leading to university or practical courses leading to careers such as carpenters. To what extent do you agree or disagree？
• Some people say that to prevent illness and disease, governments should focus more on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays, distance-learning programs have gained popularity, but some people argue that online courses can never be as good as those taken at a college or university in person. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• The increase in the production of consumer goods results in damage to the natural environment. What are the causes of this? What can be done to solve this problem?
• Some people think international events such as the Olympic Games are important and can bring nations together. Others, however, think that they are a waste of money as the money could be spent elsewhere on more important issues. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that dangerous sports should be banned. Others, however, believe that people should be free to choose sports activities. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• In today’s world, people spend a lot of money on appearance because they want to look younger. Why does this happen? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
• In many countries, people now wear western clothes such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing. Why is this the case? Is this a positive or negative development?
• Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think visual images, such as photographs and videos, can most accurately inform people about a news story. Others believe they are not reliable sources of information. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• These days, older people who have retired often choose to spend money on themselves (for example on holidays) rather than save money for their children. Is this a positive or negative development?
• Advanced technology has brought many beneficial changes to the world. However, some old people today struggle with the use of technologies such as mobile phones and the Internet. How can the elderly benefit from using advanced technologies? How can the elderly be encouraged to use consumer electronics more often?
• Recent advances in medicine have resulted in an increase in life expectancy over the past four years. Do you think that the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
• The best way to make the road transport of goods safer is to ask drivers to take a driving test each year. To what extent do you agree or disagree ?
• Although, it is generally illegal corporal punishment continues in many countries. Others argue that parents should have the right to punish their children in this way. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Listen to the sample answer to this question here .
• The increasing demand for oil and gas has made it necessary to look for these energy sources in remote and untouched natural places. Do you think the advantages of locating oil and gas in these areas outweigh the disadvantages of damaging these places? Listen to the sample answer to this question here .
• Some people think the primary purpose of schools is to turn children into good citizens and workers, rather than to benefit them as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
• Some people think it is a better way to leave their home country to improve their work and living opportunities, while others think staying in their own country is a better choice. Discuss both views and give your own opinion . Listen to the sample answer to this question here .
• In many cities, planners tend to arrange shops, schools, offices, and homes in specific areas and separate them from each other. Do you think the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages?
• It’s more important for school children to learn about their local history than world history. To what extent do you agree or disagree？
• Nowadays many people prefer to buy famous brands of clothes, cars and other items. What are the reasons for this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development ?
• In many workplaces, online communication is becoming more commonplace than face-to-face meetings. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Listen to the sample answer to this question here .

January to March 2022 Recent Task 2 Questions

• Some people believe that violence in the media, such as in television programs and films, directly results in violent behaviour. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In the future, all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers. Do you think that the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?
• In many countries, children are becoming overweight and unhealthy. Some people think that the government has the responsibility to solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In some countries, there has been an increase in the number of advertisements that try to persuade children to buy snacks, toys, and other goods. Some people claim this is unfair as parents feel under pressure to buy these kinds of things for their children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some believe that younger family members should be legally responsible for supporting older family members when they become physically, mentally and financially unable to look after themselves. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In the 21st century, contact between many different parts of the world has developed rapidly through air travel and telecommunications. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• Weddings are getting bigger and more expensive. What is the reason for this? Is it a positive or negative development?
• Educating young people is naturally important. However, some think governments ought to invest more in education for adults in need. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In some places, old age is valued, while in other cultures youth is considered more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• A rise in the standard of living in a country often only seems to benefit cities rather than rural areas. What problems can this cause? How might these problems be reduced?
• Some people think that personal happiness is directly related to economic success. Others argue that happiness depends on different factors. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

October to December 2021 Sample Task 2 Questions

• Some people think that the best way to succeed in life is to get a university education, while others disagree and say that it is no longer true nowadays. Discuss both views and give your own opinions.
• In many countries, plastic shopping bags are the main source of rubbish. They cause water and land pollution, and so they should be banned. To what extent do you agree with this statement?
• Information technology is changing many aspects of our lives and now dominates our home, leisure and work activities. To what extent do the benefits of information technology outweigh the disadvantages?
• Some people think that schools are no longer necessary because people can acquire information on the Internet. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people believe that university students should pay all the costs of studies because university education only benefits students themselves, not society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some think increasing business and cultural contact between nations is positive. Others think it leads to the disappearance of the national identity. Discuss both views and state your own opinion.
• Some people think that schools should select students according to their academic abilities, while others believe that it is better to have students with different abilities studying together. Discuss both views and state your own opinion.
• Many people like to eat unhealthy food even though they know it’s bad for them. Why? What are the most effective ways to improve people’s eating habits?
• Some people think there are not many things individuals can do to resolve environmental problems, while others believe that in order to tackle environmental problems individuals also need to take action. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• There is too much noise in many public places in cities. What are the causes of this problem? What can be done to solve the problem?
• Crime rates will fall as advances in technology make it easier to detect and prevent crimes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In many situations, people who break the law should be warned instead of punished. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think employers should not care about the way their employees dress, but the quality of work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think children should have the freedom to make mistakes, while other people believe that adults should prevent children from making mistakes. Discuss both sides and give your opinion
• Although more and more people read news on the Internet, newspapers will remain the most important source of news for the majority of people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some students take one year off between finishing high school and going to university, in order to travel or to work. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
• Today, many people do not know their neighbours in large cities. What problems does this cause? What can be done about this?
• An increasing number of developing countries are expanding their tourist industry. Why do you think it is the case? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
• Nowadays, more and more people from different cities are spending more time away from their families. What are the possible reasons and the effects on the people themselves and their families?
• Some people say that nowadays children have an easy life, and some people think that the life of children was easier in the past. Discuss both points of view and also provide relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
• Some people say that all popular TV entertainment programmes should aim to educate viewers about important social issues. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Some people believe the purpose of education should be to help the individual to become useful to society, while others believe it should help individuals to achieve their ambitions. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
• Many people believe that a person’s culture is defined by their country of origin, while others believe that it has only minor influence. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
• More and more people are finding it increasingly important to wear fashionable clothes. Is this attitude to wearing clothes a positive development or negative?
• The movement of people from villages to cities for work can cause serious problems in both places. What are the serious problems associated with this? What measures can be taken to solve these problems?
• In the world of the internet, people write product reviews of products and services. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
• Some people prefer to buy local products while others prefer international products. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some believe that more action should be taken to prevent crime, while others feel that crime is being tackled effectively now. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
• Some people say it is more important to plant trees in the open spaces in towns and cities than to build more housing. To what extant do you agree or disagree?
• Some scientists think that computers will soon become more intelligent than humans.To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Some people think that dangerous extreme sports such as rock climbing and sky-diving should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
• Young people are often influenced by their peers. Do the advantages of peer pressure outweigh the disadvantages? 
• Some people believe that nowadays too much money is being spent on weddings and birthdays. Why do you think it is happening? What can be done to improve the situation?
• In many countries, the legal driving age is 18 years old. Some people believe it is the right age to learn how to drive a car, whereas others say that the minimum age should be 25. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• 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?

Sample Task 2 Questions: January 2021  

• Some people feel that the effects of advertising are positive for individuals and businesses, while others think they are negative. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
• Some people say that TV advertisements are helpful for viewers, while others disagree. What is your opinion?
• Some people think the spread of multinational companies and globalization produce positive outcomes for everyone. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• In some countries, there are fewer young people who listen to or play classical music these days. Why is this? Should young people be encouraged to play or perform classical music?
• Directors of large organizations earn much higher salaries than ordinary employees do. Some people think it is necessary, but others are of the opinion that it is unfair. Discuss both views and give your own opinions.
• Prison is the common way in most countries try to solve the problem of crime. However, a more effective solution is to provide people with a better education. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some think that climate change reforms will negatively affect business. Others feel they are an opportunity for businesses. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
• Some people argue that holding sporting events is beneficial to a country’s development. However, other people hold the opposite opinion. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• The first man to walk on the moon claimed it was a step forward for mankind. However, it has made little difference in most people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think that good teamwork makes a company successful, others think that good leadership is the reason behind the success of a company. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Take a look at some of our IELTS vocabulary to help you write about the above topics.

Task 2 Sample Questions: October/November 2020  

• Nowadays more and more people want to get things done instantly. Why is it? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
• Some people think that it is a waste of time for high school students to study literature, such as novels and poems. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In some countries the elderly are highly valued and respected, while in others youth is more highly valued. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
• The personal information of many individuals is held by large internet companies and organisations. Do you think the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• Some people believe that handwriting is no longer useful in the modern world and should not be taught in schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some believe that advances in technology are increasing the gap between rich and poor while others think the opposite is happening. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
• Some people believe that smart phones are destroying social interaction today. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people believe that governments should ban dangerous sports. Others claim that they should have freedom to choose their favourite activities. Discuss both views and present your opinion.
• Nowadays employment options are changing and employees cannot rely on having the same job and working conditions throughout their life. What are some possible causes? Suggest some ways to plan for the future under these circumstances.
• Many companies sponsor sports as a way of advertising themselves. Some people think this is good for the world of sport, while others think it is negative. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Governments in many countries have recently introduced special taxes on foods and beverages with high levels of sugar. Some think these taxes are a good idea while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Many people think technological devices such as smartphones, tablets and mobile phones bring more disadvantages than advantages. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• It is better for children if the whole family including aunts, uncles and grandparents are involved in a child’s upbringing, rather than just their parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Most people prefer shopping in supermarkets nowadays. How does this affect the local shops? What are the positive and negative impacts of this development?
• In many countries, fast food is becoming cheaper and more widely available. Do the disadvantages of this outweigh the advantages?
• The government should lower the budget on the arts in order to allocate more money to education.To what extent do you agree?
• Many people argue that eating junk food has led to an unhealthy lifestyle. This problem has become more common among young people these days. Do you agree or disagree that junk food is the cause of the issue?
• Some people think that in order to produce a happy society, it is necessary to ensure that there is only a small difference between the earnings of the richest and poorest. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• The manufacturing and use of cars damage the environment but their popularity is increasing. Why is this happening? How could this be controlled?
• Some people think that young people should go to university to further their education while others think they should be encouraged to work as car mechanics or builders etc.to serve society. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people believe that to give opportunities to the new generation companies should encourage high-level employees who are older than 55 to retire. Do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays celebrities earn more money than politicians. What are the reasons for this? Is it a positive or negative development?
• Many people believe that countries should produce food for the whole population and import as little food as possible. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think that it is necessary to travel abroad to learn about other countries, but others think that it is not necessary to travel abroad because all the information can be seen on TV and the internet. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Why are some people who leave school early more successful compared with those who complete their studies. Provide reasons why they are more successful and what are the requirements for success?
• Countries with long average working hours are economically more successful than those countries which do not work long hours. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
•  Many students around the world don’t choose science subjects at university. Give the reasons for this and describe the impact on the community?
• It is better for young people to get advice from old people than young ones. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think that music plays an important role in society. Others think it is simply a form of entertainment. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
• Some people think that job satisfaction is more important than job security. Others think that people cannot expect to enjoy a job and that having a permanent job is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people say that technologies such as mobile phones are disrupting social interaction. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think history has little or nothing to offer, while others say the study of the past helps us understand the present. Write on both views and give your opinion, citing examples from your experience
• Some people think that zoos are cruel and all the zoos should be closed. However, others think that zoos are useful to protect rare animals. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that the best way to stay fit is to join a gym/health club while others think doing everyday activities such as walking and climbing stairs is sufficient. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Nowadays online shopping is extremely popular. Discuss the impact of it on the environment and on people who lost their jobs because of it
• Nowadays celebrities earn more money than politicians. What are the reasons for this? Is it a positive or negative development
• Many people think that every individual is responsible for their happiness, but some people believe there are other external factors that influence us. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• It is too expensive to look after and repair old buildings. This money should be spent on building modern buildings instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
• Scientific research should be the responsibility of governments rather than commercial organizations. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Some people believe that women should be treated as equal to men when applying for a job with police or the military. Others think women are less suitable for this kind of job. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people prefer to work in the same type of job throughout their lifetime while others like to change the type of job they do. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people think that it is fine for professional sportsmen and sportswomen to misbehave on or off the field, as long as they are playing well. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• People are becoming too dependent on the Internet and phone. Is it a positive or negative development?
• Some people suggest that it is better for children to be brought up by the whole family including uncles, aunts and grandparents, rather than just the parents. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and examples.
• Some people think that the government should increase tax on unhealthy food to encourage people to start eating healthy. Do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays, people are spending more time away from their homes because they spend longer in their workplace. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
• Nowadays a few people take their family with them abroad whenever they go on a business trip. What are the advantages and disadvantages for them and for their family
• Many parents complain about violence promoted to their children through video games, TV programs and other media. Why is it happening? What can be the solution for it?
• Nowadays most people are not as fit and active, as they were in the past. What are the main causes of this situation? Suggest some possible solutions.
• Nowadays, international tourism is the biggest industry in the world. Unfortunately, it creates tension rather than understanding between people from different cultures. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
• Fossil fuels (e.g. coal, oil and gas) are the main source of energy for most countries. However, alternative sources of energy (e.g. wind and solar) have been encouraged for use by some countries. To what extent is this a positive or negative development?
• Nowadays media should include more good news in their publications. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
• Fossil fuels are the main source of energy around the world. However, people are being encouraged to use alternative energy sources such as wind energy, solar energy and so on. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Why?
• Some people believe that elderly employees are more useful to a company, while others believe that young employees are better. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• The number of older people is increasing. Some people think that this will cause problems in their countries, while others believe this group is important to society. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some think that teenagers should follow older people’s rules. Others think that it is natural for them to challenge what older people say. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Television Sporting shows such as the Olympics motivate the youth who do not like to exercise much. Do you agree or disagree? Include relevant examples in your answer and provide your own opinion.
• Nowadays many people want to buy famous brands of clothes, cars and other items. What are the reasons for this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?
• More people live alone today than they did in the past. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? Give your opinion and relevant examples to support your view.
• Some people believe that price is the only consideration when buying something. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and include relevant examples.
• Some people believe that educational success depends on good teachers, while others believe that students’ attitudes are important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• People in the current generation are not fit and active. This will cause health problems in the future. What could be the reasons for the inactivity and suggest solutions for this issue?
• Parents, usually mothers, stay at home to look after their families. People believe that for this they should receive a salary from the government. Do you agree or disagree and why?
• Some people think that they can go to the gym to remain fit, while others think that there are other better ways to do this. Discuss both views along with your opinion.
• Some people say companies should require all employees to wear uniforms at work. Others think it is unnecessary. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Because of modern technology , some people believe that it is no longer necessary for people to learn handwriting skills, but others believe that handwriting is still an important skill. Discuss both views and give your opinion based on your experience.
• Nowadays many people work from home. Some think it is beneficial, while others think it may distract the family routine. What is your opinion?
•  It is necessary for parents to attend a parenting training course to bring their children up. Do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays people work too hard. What is the reason for this? What should employers do to prevent employees from overworking?
• Nowadays people get married and have children after the age of 30. Is it a positive or negative development?
• Today, some young people say that their mobile phones are the most important thing they own. Do you think that the popularity of mobile phones is a good or bad thing?
• Nowadays, people believe that governments should invest tax-payers money in healthcare, while others believe that money should be used in other areas. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.
• Adults do less exercise nowadays. Some think that people can be encouraged to live healthy lives through sporting events such as the Olympics or the World Cup. Others think that there are better ways to encourage adults to exercise. Discuss both views and state your opinion.
• Modern cultures around the world have become similar when compared to the past. What are the reasons? Is it a positive or negative development?
• People are using a lot of online language translation apps. Are there more advantages than disadvantages to such services?
• Demand for food is increasing worldwide. What is the cause of this? What measures can the international community take to meet this demand?
• Many companies sponsor sports as a way of advertising themselves. Some people think that this is a good thing, while others think that it has disadvantages. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people believe that to be successful at a sport you need natural ability and others think that hard work and practice can make you successful. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Nowadays, adults do little exercise. Some people believe that the best way to address this issue is by covering great sports events such as the Olympics on television. Others think that it is more beneficial to take other measures. What is your opinion?
• These days some people spend a lot of money on tickets to go to sporting or cultural events. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
• Some people believe that technology has made man more social and others think that it has made him less social. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Experts say older people were happier and healthier in the past because they did more exercise and spent more time with family and friends, whereas many now suffer from loneliness and health problems. What are the causes of this and what are some solutions?
• Some people believe that to be successful at a sport you need a natural ability and others think that hard work and practice can make you successful. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people believe that there will be a reduction in air travel in the future. Do you think that this trend is a positive or negative development?
• Some people believe that technology has made man more sociable and others think that it has made us less sociable. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of young adults, compared with the number of older people. Do you think that the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• Some people believe that it is important to give gifts to friends and family to show that we care about them. Others think that there are better ways to show that we care. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Today much of the food people eat gets transported from farms that are thousands of miles away. Some people believe it would be better for the environment and the economy if people only consumed food produced by local farmers. Would the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• With internet improvements, people can share views or opinions on certain goods or services that they have purchased. Is this a good or a bad thing? Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• The qualities and skills that a person requires to become successful in today’s world cannot be learned at a university or any other academic institution. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Shopping has become a new favourite pastime for the younger generation. Why is this the case? Should we encourage them to develop other hobbies too?
• Courses and general online study have recently become very popular. However, some people still prefer to attend classes in person. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that prison sentences should not be used to deal with criminals. Education and skills training should be used instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• It is often said that it is not necessary to have a tertiary education to become a successful businessman. To what extent to you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and relevant examples.
• Today it is common practice for many business meetings and business training to take place online. Do the advantages of this new development outweigh the disadvantages?
• Nowadays, the internet and television have given ordinary people a chance to become famous. Is this a positive or negative development?
• Some people from poor and rural backgrounds find it difficult to get a university education. Universities should make it easier for such groups to enrol. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think that it is the responsibility of governments to take care of the environment, while others believe that it is the responsibility of the citizens. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Many people believe that family has a greater influence on a child’s life and development than other factors, such as friends, TV, music and so on. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Science can now offer people a life expectancy of close to one hundred years or even more. Some people view it in a positive light, but others believe it creates some problems. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• These days, many people prefer ready-to-eat food outside of their homes rather than homemade food. Do you think this has more advantages or disadvantages?
• Certain personal qualities cannot be achieved through university studies. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and relevant examples.
• In some countries, the quality of life in larger cities is declining. Why do you think this is happening? What measures can be taken to stop it?

Task 2 Questions: June 2019

• Shopping is now one of the most popular forms of leisure activity in many countries for young adults. What do you think is the reason for this? Is this a positive or negative development?
• In many countries, people are living in a “throwaway society” where things are used for a short time and thrown away. What are the causes of this and what problems does it lead to?
• In some countries, people follow the latest fashion and hairstyles. In your opinion, what is influencing this? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
• In some countries, children under 16 years old are not allowed to leave school by law and get full-time work. Is this a good or bad thing? Discuss your opinion.
• Nowadays, people have adopted an unhealthy lifestyle. Why do think this is? How could this problem be solved?
• Some young people are leaving the countryside to live in cities and towns, leaving only old people in the countryside. Why do think this is? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
• In many countries, people have more health problems because they choose to live an unhealthy lifestyle. What do you think are the reasons for this and how can it be solved? Give relevant examples from your experience.
• Countries with a long average working time are more economically successful than those countries which do not have a long working time. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Nowadays, people of all ages from certain parts of the world spend the most time at home rather than going outdoors. Discuss the reasons, is this a negative or positive development?
• With the development of technology and science, some people believe that there is no great value of artists such as musicians and painters. What are the things artists can do but scientists cannot? Should art be encouraged more?
• While recruiting a new employee, the employer should pay more attention to their personal qualities, rather than qualifications and experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion and include relevant examples.
• Money should be spent on creating new public buildings such as museums or town halls rather than renovating the existing ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• All the people in a company should be treated equally and provided with the same number of holidays in a year or people doing different jobs enjoy a different amount of holiday time. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people say that a person’s success is a result of the way he has been brought up by his parents. Do you agree or disagree?
• Public celebrations (such as national days, festivals etc) are held in most countries. These are often quite expensive and some people say that governments should spend money on more useful things. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some people say that children given pocket money every week will have lesser money problems when they become adults. Do you agree or disagree?
• The global demand for oil and gas is increasing. Some people believe that we should therefore encourage the exploitation of remote areas. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• Today, many big cities in the world are increasing in size. What are the problems associated with it? What are the solutions to these problems?
• Some young people are leaving the countryside to live in cities or towns, it leaves only old people in the countryside. What are the problems with this issue? What can be done to solve this problem?
• Many people believe that learning a foreign language is a very difficult task. What are the most difficult things about learning a foreign language? What is the best way to overcome them? Explain and include your personal experience or knowledge of these problems.
• Some people think high-end technology can prevent and cut down the rate of committing a crime. Do you agree or disagree?
• Some people feel that courses can make anyone a teacher, while others feel an excellent teacher cannot be made by pursuing a course. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people think that a high salary is important when choosing a company to work for, while others think that a good working atmosphere is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people encourage young children to leave their parents’ house as soon as they become adults while others say children should stay at their parents’ house as long as possible. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Many countries thought that children have to do homework in their free time while other say children should do more outdoor activities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people say that art subjects such as music, drama and creative writing are an essential part of education, and every school should include them in its syllabus. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.
• Nowadays in many countries, women have full-time jobs. Therefore, it is logical to share household tasks evenly between men and women. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• Some people think that public health within a country can be improved by the government making laws regarding nutritious food. Others, however, think that health is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people believe that the construction of new public buildings such as museums, town halls and sporting facilities is more important than the renovation of the existing ones, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Nowadays the crime rate is increasing, especially among teenagers. What are the reasons behind it? How can we reverse this trend? What punishment methods should be used, in your opinion?
• Nowadays online education has become popular as more institutes and companies are offering courses online. However, many people prefer traditional, classroom training or study. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both methods.
• Some people believe that the government should take care of old people and provide financial support after they retire. Others say individuals should save during their working years to fund their own retirement. What is your opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.
• In some cultures, old people are valued more, while in other cultures youth is considered more valuable. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Nowadays people waste a lot of food that was bought from shops and restaurants. Why do you think people waste food? What can be done to reduce the amount of food they throw away?
• In today’s times, the internet is making it easy to study online from home. Some prefer online courses to study and they think it is better. Others prefer classroom education. Discuss both views and share your opinion.
• Successful companies use advertising to make more sales. What can make an advertisement very effective? Do you think this is a bad thing or a good thing for society?
• Science will soon make people live up to 100 or even 200 years. Some believe this is a good thing while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people believe that after hundred years life will be easier for most of people, while others are unsure. What is your opinion?
• Some people think it is important to spend a lot of money on a wedding celebration, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people think that giving gifts and presents to friends and family is important to show them that we care. Others think that there are more important ways. Discuss both and give your opinion.
• The media is increasing interest in famous people who have ordinary backgrounds. Why do you think people are interested in the lives of famous people? Do you think this is a good thing?
• Some people prefer activities and lifestyles in hot climates while others prefer activities and lifestyles in cold climates. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Online education and training is becoming increasingly popular in the business world. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?
• More and more parents are allowing their children to play on computers and tablets as they think that children should learn technology skills. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?
• People are living in a ‘throwaway society’, using things for a short time and then throwing them away. What are the causes of this? What problems does it lead to?
• Nowadays children mostly spend time playing computer games rather than sports. What are the reasons for this? Is it a positive or negative development?
• Scientists agree that many people eat too much junk food and it is damaging their health. Some people think that this problem can be solved by educating people, while others believe that education will not work. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Many people believe that TV news and media, in general, have a detrimental effect on our life. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion, including relevant examples.
• Many famous athletes advertise different products. What are the advantages and disadvantages of it?
• Nowadays people try to balance their work with other things in life, but only some could actually achieve it so far. What are the reasons for that? How can we solve this problem?
• Some people say that online study is the most effective and convenient way to learn. Others believe that online study will never be as effective as learning at school, or in person. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Children and teenagers are committing more and more crimes in many countries. Why is this happening? How can we stop or at least reduce youth crime?
• Some people prefer cold weather conditions, while others don’t. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think subjects taught in school are a waste of time, while others disagree and believe that this type of education is useful for students. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that the only way to relax is to rest or sleep, while others say people need to do exercise or sports to relax. Discuss both viewpoints and give your own opinion.
• Some parents and teachers think that children’s behaviour should be strictly controlled. While some think that children should be free to behave. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• In many countries, day by day rubbish (garbage) is increasing. Why is it happening? What can be done?
• Some people see shopping as a leisure activity mostly for young adults, while others disagree. Do you think this has a positive or negative effect on economic development? Give your opinion and include relevant examples.
• Shopping has become a favourite pastime among young people. What do you think it is like that? Do you think they must be encouraged to do other things rather than shopping?
• Some people think that the main factors influencing a child’s development these days are things such as television, friends, and music. Others believe that the family still remains more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Food travels thousands of miles from producers to consumers. Some people think that it would be better for the environment and economy if people only ate the local food produced by farmers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people argue that the fittest, strongest individuals and teams can achieve the greatest success in sports. But other people think that success is as much related to mental attitude. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people become famous when they were at a young age. Do you think this is positive or negative?
• Some people believe it is important to give gifts and presents to friends and family to show that we care about them. Others think that there are better ways to show affection to them. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Many people believe that spending a lot of money on weddings is fine, while others completely disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion and examples .
• Many people believe the government should spend money on faster public transport. Others think that money should be spent on different aspects of public transportation, such as cost reduction and environmental conservation. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people believe that manufacturers should be responsible for reducing the large amounts of packaging they use. Others say consumers should avoid buying heavily packaged items. Discuss both views and state your opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your experience.
• Some people think that family has the most important influence on children’s development, while others believe that factors such as TV, friends, music and books have a more significant impact. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Task 2 questions (October 2018)

• Today, most people get married and give birth in their thirties rather than when they are younger. Is this a positive or negative development?
• Shops should give preference in selling local food rather than imported food. Do you agree or disagree?
• A growing population is a big problem in developing countries. Should the government provide new homes in the cities or the countryside?
• Some people think that the media (newspapers) have the right to publish details of people’s private lives, while others think it should be controlled. Discuss both views.
• Some people think that activities during the free time should be planned while others disagree. Discuss both sides and include examples and relevant data from your own experience.
• 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 with this opinion? You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with examples and relevant evidence.
• Today more people are overweight than ever before. What in your opinion are the primary causes of this? What measures can be taken to overcome this epidemic?
• In most parts of the world, people are living longer. What are the possible causes of this situation? Is this a negative or positive development?
• Today, the internet and TV have created that chance for ordinary people to become famous. Is it a positive or negative development?
• Nowadays food has become easier to prepare. Has this change improved the way people live? Give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.
• Nowadays many people believe that children should be taught history in schools, however, others argue that children should learn subjects that are more helpful for modern everyday life. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some parents believe that a child should not waste time by reading entertainment books instead, they should spend time reading educational books only. What is your opinion about this?
• Some people think that young children need to attend nursery before primary school. While others believe young children can spend all day at home. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people believe school children should be given multiple short vacations while others believe they should get one long vacation. Give advantages of both and your point of view.
• Some people think that the advantages of advertising sports products through famous sports players outweigh the disadvantages. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In our society, there is far more attention on men’s sport than women’s sport. What are the reasons for this? Do you think that this is positive or negative development?
• It has been said that reading for pleasure is better in developing imagination and language skills than watching TV. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Advertisements are influencing us in a negative way. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• School teachers are more responsible for the social and intellectual development of students than parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people spend a lot of money on their wedding ceremonies. However, others feel like it is unnecessary to spend a lot. Discuss both view points and give your own opinion.
• Since travelling abroad became relatively inexpensive, more countries opened their doors for foreign tourists. Is it a positive or negative trend? Give your opinion and include relevant examples.
• Many countries consider eighteen-year-olds to be adults, while other countries don’t. What do you think about it? Give your opinion and some relevant examples based on your own experience.

Writing task 2 questions (September 2018)

• Some people think that the only way to judge someone’s success in business is by the amount of money they make. Is this a true indicator of the success of a business and in what other ways could success in a business be measured?
• The restoration of old buildings in major cities around the world costs enormous amounts of money. This money would be better spent on providing new housing and road development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
• Employers should give their workers at least one month’s holiday a year as it makes them to do better at their job. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people believe the Olympic Games don’t belong to the 21st century anymore. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some parents believe that reading books for entertainment is a waste of time for children and they think that their children should only read serious educational books. What is your opinion?
• Some people think that advertising on TV is useless and others disagree. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
• Some people think money is the best gift to give it to youngsters, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• For school children, their teachers have more influence on their intelligence and social development than their parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• In the modern world, it is possible to shop, work and communicate with people via the internet and live without any face-to-face contact with others. Is it a positive or negative development in your opinion? To what extent do you support this development?
• Many university students live with their families, while others live away from home because their universities are in different places. What are the advantages and disadvantages of both situations?
• In the modern world, it is no longer necessary to use animals for food, clothing or medicine. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.
• Some businesses observe that new employees who just graduated from a college or university seem to lack the interpersonal skills needed for communication with their colleagues. What could be the reason for this? What solutions can help address this problem?
• Some people believe that we should start giving formal education to students at a much earlier age, while others think we should wait until the age of 7. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Discuss and give reasons for your answer.
• Nowadays in many countries, young people leave rural areas to study or work in cities. What are the reasons for this? Do the benefits of this outweigh the disadvantages?
• Some parents believe that reading entertainment books is a waste of time. In their opinion, children should only read serious, educational books. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own experience.
• Nowadays there is a growing trend of private car ownership. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages or environmental problems associated with this?
• Some people believe that companies should pay for the damage they cause to the environment, while others say that the government should be responsible for such expenses. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your experience.
• Nowadays there are many medical surveys of treatments to reduce health problems. Who should conduct them, governments, individuals or private companies, in your opinion? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your experience.
• The international community must act immediately to ensure that all countries reduce their consumption of fossil fuels such as gas, oil and coal. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion.
• Many people believe that it is a good idea to have a dress code at workplaces. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.
• Some think that private companies should pay for pollution clean up, while others say it should be a government’s responsibility. Discuss, and state your own opinion.
• Many people think that more having more money will make them happier. How important is money to happiness?
• Many people believe that the use of new technology improves the lives of employees. Others think it is a disadvantage for them. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people say that sport is very important for a nation’s development, while others believe that sport is no more than a leisure time activity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that children should start school sooner while others believe they should not start it before the age of seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people argue that competitive sports are good for bringing together different people and cultures. Others argue that these sports can cause problems and increase conflicts between nations. Discuss both points of view and give your own opinion.
• In some countries, it is illegal for employers to reject job applications on the basis of age criteria. Is it a positive or negative development? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.
• Many young people regularly change their jobs over the years. What are the reasons for this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
• Some people think that new technologies benefit the life of workers whereas some deny the statement. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
• Scientists agree that many people are eating too much junk food and it is damaging to their health. Some people think that these problems can be solved by educating people to eat less junk food. Other people believe that education will not work. Discuss both opinions and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that companies and private individuals should pay to clean up the pollution that they produce, not the government. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• As more and more students enter universities, academic qualifications are becoming devalued. To get ahead in many professions, more than one degree is now required and in future, it is likely that people will take a number of degree courses before even starting work. This is an undesirable situation. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Many people are involved in sports when they are young but stop once they are adults. Why do many adults stop doing physical exercise? What can be done about this problem?
• Some people think that it is a good idea for all employees to wear a uniform at work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• Some people think that new technology always improves the lives of workers. Other people believe that it results in disadvantages for workers. Discuss both opinions and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that international competitive sports such as football bring conflict between people of different age groups and nationalities. Others think the sport is helping reach understanding between people and nations. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some people think that only staff who worked in the company for a long time should be promoted to higher positions. What is your opinion on this? Give reasons and relevant examples for your answer.
• Some people think it’s a good idea to wear a uniform at work. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer with relevant examples from knowledge or experience.
• Some people think it is more important to spend time in developing a successful career while others think it is more important to spend time with friends and family. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
• There is less social contact between young and old. What are the reasons? What measures can be taken?
• Do you agree with the following statement: home schooling protects students from a number of challenges faced by non-home-schooled children?
• Does distant learning make it easier for students to balance their everyday lives?
• Learning in one’s native tongue yields better school scores than learning in a medium language. Do you agree or disagree? Argue your point of view.
• Should there be a variety of learning methodologies implemented within the school learning curriculum?
• Some believe that modern technology has made people less socially active, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• The best way to reduce crime among young people is to teach parents good parenting skills. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and examples.
• Some psychologists think that the best way to overcome the stress of everyday life is to spend a portion of the day doing absolutely nothing. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
• There is a trend of increasing amounts of consumer goods, which leads to environmental problems. What are the reasons for this trend? Give your own opinion and solutions.
• The difference in age between parents and their children has increased compared to the past. Do you think advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?
•  Scientists have been warning for many years already that in order to protect the environment people should use less energy. However, most people do not change their ways of living. What is causing this behaviour? How can people be encouraged to change?
• Some people think that children should go to kindergarten before attending primary school, while others believe that is better for children to stay all day with their families. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people believe that trade and cultural relationships between the countries is a positive development, while others disagree. Discuss both the views and include your own opinion.
• Recently there are more gas stations being built as opposed to diesel ones in rural areas. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?
• Many parents (mostly women) decide to stay home and take care of the family members instead of going out for work. Some people suggest that they should be paid by the government for doing that. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include examples from your own experience.
• Different cultures are mixing today and the world is becoming a global village. Is it a positive or a negative development? Give your own opinion and examples.
• Nowadays people’s life is changing rapidly and, as a result, family relationships are affected. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.
• Measures have been put in place to improve road safety by reducing the speed limits. Some people believe there are better alternatives. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
• Some people think that the range of technology available to people is increasing the gap between the rich and the poor. Others think it has the opposite effect. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
• Some of the methods used in advertising are unethical and unacceptable in today’s society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
• People nowadays are not as fit and active as they were in the past. What are the reasons for this? What measures can be taken for this?

Click here for IELTS task 2 topics and answers.

For above band 7 you will need IELTS vocabulary, this page shares some useful strategies and sources to improve your lexical resource.

To improve your opinion-forming skills, check out the BBC , and get a rough overview of the current affairs in each topic. For example, at the moment, regarding the environment the main topic is climate change -could you write 250 words about global warming? Likewise, for the topic of technology, what do you know about artificial intelligence ? You don’t have to be an expert but you do need to have an opinion, and that can only come from getting informed about the topics.

In summary, it is advisable to be well-versed in current affairs, have a global view of events, and have a bit of knowledge about each topic.

IELTS writing tips The writing part of the IELTS can prove to be a little overwhelming; especially, if you don’t know how to approach it. Below is a list  of writing tips to help you feel less overwhelmed.

IELTS writing samples If you aren’t quite sure how to approach your writing section of the IELTS and want some ideas from those who have succeeded click here.

IELTS essay topics with answers IELTS essays are a great opportunity for you to show off your English abilities in written form. We have put together a great archive of IELTS essay topics with the answers!

Essay writing topics Practice is truly the mother of preparation, so why not make sure you are ready to tackle the IELTS essay by going through our list of essay topics you might encounter during the exam.

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How to write ielts writing task 2.

• Read the question and understand what the examiner is asking
• Take a few minutes to think about what you’re going to write
• Write your introduction
• Developing the essay ideas, your approach, and your explanations
• Conclude your essay with a summary that completes the circle
• Read the essay and make sure you didn’t make any mistakes

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How to generate ideas for writing task 2?

• Write a possible answer to the question
• Mind gone blank? Put the topic of the question into Google or Youtube
• Summarise different opinions on the topics
• Attempt more questions and you will find you now have more ideas

Read this post for more tips

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IELTS Writing Task 2/ Essay Topics with sample answer.

Ielts academic and gt essay/ writing task 2 sample.

IELTS Writing Task 2 ( also known as IELTS Essay Writing ) is the second task of your IELTS Writing test. Here, you will be presented with an essay topic and you will be scored based on your ability to respond to the topic.

You need to write at least 250 words and justify your opinion with arguments, discussion, examples, problem outlining, proposing possible solutions and supporting your position. You will have approximately 40 minutes to finish your Essay Writing. IELTS Writing Task 2 carries more weights than Writing Task 1.

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100 Real IELTS Essay Questions and Topics

by Dave | Sample Answers | 6 Comments

If you’re interested in real IELTS writing essay questions and topics, you have found the perfect place!

Scroll down to see the IELTS questions – I have included multiple of each.

Enjoy your practice!

In many countries, people now wear western clothes such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing.

Why is this the case?

Is this a positive or negative development?

Sample Essay

In some countries, there are fewer young people who listen to or play classical music these days.

Why is this?

Should young people be encouraged to play or perform classical music?

Some people think that it is a waste of time for high school students to study literature, such as novels and poems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that the government should spend more money putting in more works of art like paintings and statues in cities to make them better places to live in.

Some think that quality art can be made by anyone while others think that it requires special talent and ability.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Many young people today spend too much time following the latest fashion trends in areas such as clothing and technology.

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Business and Companies

Older people often choose to spend money on themselves (e.g. on holidays) rather than save money for their children after retirement.

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Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people believe that increasing tax on various industries will reduce pollution whereas others believe that there are better alternative ways.

Discuss both the view and give your opinion.

Large companies should pay higher salaries to CEOs and executives compared to other workers.

If a product is good and meets customer needs, then people will buy it and advertising is unnecessary.

The growth of multinational companies and the resulting rise of globalization creates positive effects for all.

To succeed in a business, one needs to know maths.

Many cities are now turning parks and farmland into new housing developments.

Read my essay here.

A rise in the standard of living in a country often only seems to benefit cities rather than rural areas.

What problems can this cause?

How might these problems be reduced?

Today, many people do not know their neighbors in large cities.

What problems does this cause?

What can be done about this?

Some people say it is more important to plant trees in the open spaces in towns and cities than to build more housing.

To what extant do you agree or disagree?

Some believe it is important for cities and towns to invest heavily in building large outdoor public spaces.

Many people living in cities these days do not get enough physical exercise.

What are the causes of this?

What are some possible solutions?

Climate Change

Some believe that people should make efforts to fight climate change while others think it is better to learn to live with it.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some think that climate change reforms will negatively affect business. Others feel they are an opportunity for businesses.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Climate change is a phenomenon that affects countries all over the world. Many people strongly believe that it is the responsibility of individuals, rather than corporations and governments, to deal with this problem.

To what extent do you agree?

Developing the economy will always damage the environment.

Sample Answer

In many countries, crimes rates amongst younger people has been rising.

Discuss the causes and solutions for this problem.

Studies show that crime rates are lower among those with educational degrees. Therefore, the best way to reduce the crime rate is to educate criminals while they are still in prison.

Many researchers believe that we can now study the behaviour of children to see if they will grow up to be criminals, while others disagree.

To what extent do you think crime is determined by genetics?

Watching TV shows and movies about crime is becoming more and more popular.

What effect does that have on society?

Nowadays, distance-learning programs have gained in popularity, but some people argue that online courses can never be taken as good as those taken at a college or university in person.

In an era of globalization, some people think that studying abroad is the best way to attain a well-paid job while others believe other options are better.

The best curriculum is not one based on a static body of knowledge but one which teaches student to cope with change.

Some feel that schools should be mixed with both girls and boys attending while others feel the genders ought to be separated.

Many students find it is harder to study at university or college compared to when they were in grade school.

What are some possible solutions for this problem?

Instead of requiring primary school students to do experiments themselves, schools should only alllow them to watch experiments demonstrated by teachers.

Many students find it difficult to pay attention at school.

What are the reasons for this?

What could be done to solve this problem?

Entertainment

People these days watch TV, films and other programmes alone rather than with other people.

Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Some feel that good entertainers are as important to society as scientists.

Some people say that all popular TV entertainment programmes should aim to educate viewers about important social issues.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Computer games are very popular for all ages and nationalities. Parents think this has little educational value and it will be harmful for children.

Environment and Nature

Some people believe that car-free days are effective ways to reduce air pollution. However, others argue that there are other ways that are more effective.

Some people claim that too much focus and resources have been spent to protect wild animals and birds.

It is a natural process for animal species to become extinct (e.g. dinosaurs, dodos, etc.). There is no reason why people should try to prevent this from happening.

Do you agree or disagree?

It is now possible for scientists and tourists to travel to remote natural environments, such as the South Pole.

Some think the current generation should take steps to protect the environment for the next generation.

The global demand for oil and gas is increasing. Some believe that we should therefore encourage the exploitation of remote areas.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Family and Children

Although it is generally illegal, physical punishment continues in many countries. Some argue that parents should have the right to punish their children in this way.

In marriages today, some argue that it is the responsibility of both spouses to earn a living for the family.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?  

Read my sample essay here.

People nowadays tend to have children at older ages.

Some people spend a lot of money celebrating personal family events, such as weddings and birthdays.

How important is it to celebrate such events?

Do you think people spend too much money on these events?

These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children while mothers go out to work.

What could be the reasons for this?

Is it a positive or negative development?

It is better for children if the whole family including aunts, uncles and so on are involved in a child’s upbringing, rather than just their parents.

Globalization and Consumerism

Some argue that patriotism is the primary cause of wars globally. Others feel that it serves to prevent less ethical politicians from running a country and starting wars.

The increase in the production of consumer goods results in damage to the natural environment.

What can be done to solve this problem?

Many today feel that most urgent problems can only be solved by international cooperation.

Some feel that countries should produce most of the food that is eaten in their country and import as little as possible.

One good way to promote world peace is through international sporting events.

Many think that religion should be taught in schools while others think it should be avoided.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

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As the number of cars increases, more money has to be spent on road systems. Some people think the government should pay for this. Others, however, think that drivers should cover the costs.

It is impossible to help all people around the world in need so governments should focus on people from their own country.

Governments should spend more money on medical research and less on researching the environment.

Research into medical treatments are essential to improve health and fight disease.

Who do you think should fund this research: individuals, private companies or governments?

Throughout history, male leaders have led us into violence and conflict. If a society is governed by female leaders it will be more peaceful.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Some believe that nuclear weapons benefit the world at large.

Sample essay only on Patreon.

Some people say that to prevent illness and disease, governments should focus more on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems.

Nowadays, an increasing number of people with health problems are using alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their normal doctor.

Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

Doctors should be responsible for educating their patients about how to improve their health.

Some feel governments, rather than private companies, should be in charge of medical services.

Some people today prefer to get advice for medical problems and do not want to visit a doctor.

Is this a positive or a negative development?

Even though doctors advise old people to get more exercise, many old people do not get enough.

What are some possible solutions for this?

Many psychologists recommend that the best way to relieve stress is to do nothing at all for a period of time during the day.

Some people say that now is the best time in history to be living.

What is your opinion about this?

What other time in history would be interesting to live in?

It is better to learn the way people lived in the past through films and video records than written documents.

Some believe that history has little to teach us about today while others think that the study of the past helps us to understand the present.

Some people say history is one the most important school subjects. Other people think that, in today’s world, subjects like science and technology are more important than history.

Museums and art galleries should focus on works that show the history and culture of their own country rather than works of other parts of the world.

Some people think the newly built houses should be the same as the old housing styles in local areas. Others argue that local authorities should allow people to build houses in their own style.

There are severe social consequences to housing shortages in cities and only the government can solve these problems.

Too much money is wasted on repairing old buildings that should be used to knock them down and build new ones.

Some believe that because everyone needs a place to live, governments should provide houses for those who are too poor to afford their own.

Many people put their personal information online (address, telephone number, and so on) for purposes such as signing up for social networks or online banking.

In the past, knowledge was contained in books. Nowadays, knowledge is uploaded to the internet.

In many workplaces, online communication is now more common than face-to-face meetings.

Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Some today argue that schools are no longer necessary because children can learn so much from the internet and be educated at home.

Some feel governments should invest in preserving minority languages, while others feel this is not a good use of resources.

Some believe that we should invent a new language for international communication.

Some people believe that smartphones are destroying social interaction today.

Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause serious social problems, as well as practical problems.

Media and Advertising

Some people think that there should be a complete ban on all forms of advertising.

People are annoyed or entertained by advertising but they are not affected by advertisements when making shopping decisions.

To what extent you agree or disagree?

More and more people no longer read newspapers or watch TV programmes to get their news and instead read online.

Some feel that the effects of advertising are positive for individuals and businesses, while others think they are negative.

In recent times, economic growth has helped many become richer, both in developed and developing countries. However, those in developed countries are not as happy as they were in the past.

What can be learned from this?

Some people work harder than other.

Is this a positive or negative habit?

Some people believe that the experiences children have before they go to school will have the greatest effect on their future life. Others argue that experiences gained when they are teenagers have a bigger influence.

Discuss both views and give your own opinions.

Although families have influence on a children’s development, factors outside the home play a bigger part in their lives nowadays.

Some people think students should study the science of food and how to prepare it. Others think students should spend time on important subjects.

The first man to walk on the moon claimed it was a step forward for mankind. However, it has made little difference in most people’s lives.

More and more students at university today are not choosing to study science.

Why is this happening?

What are the effects of this?

Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business, and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.

Some people think that social networking sites have a huge negative impact on both individuals and society.

Some people feel that equality between the genders has already been achieved while others feel there is considerable progress to be made.

Some people think young people should follow the traditions of their society. Others think that they should be free to behave as individuals.

Society is based on rules and laws. It could not function if individuals were free to do whatever they wanted to do.

Whether or not a person achieves their aims in life is mostly related to luck.

Nowadays people live longer after they retire.

How does this affect individuals and society?

Weddings are getting bigger and more expensive.

What is the reason for this?

Sample essay

Sports and Exercise

Large companies use sports events to promote their products. Some people think this has a negative impact on sports.

Some people think that sports play an important role in society. Others think they are nothing more than a leisure activity.

Some believe that the Olympic games help bring people from different nations together, while others claim that holding the Olympics wastes money which could be used for important issues.

Some think that it is more important for children to engage in outdoor activities instead of playing videogames.

To what extent to you agree or disagree?

Today different types of robots are being developed which can serve as companions and workers to help at work and at home.

Some think scientists should be allowed to send messages into space to communicate with other life forms while others believe this is too dangerous.

Many people think technological devices such as smart phones, tablets and mobile phones bring more disadvantages than advantages.

Some scientists believe that in the future computers will be more intelligent than human beings. While some see this as a positive development others worry about the negative consequences.

Transportation

The best way to make the road transport of goods safer is to ask drivers to take a driving test each year.

Some people think that the best way to increase road safety is to increase the minimum legal age for driving cars and riding motorbikes.

The manufacturing and use of cars damages the environment but their popularity is increasing.

How could this be controlled?

When cars and cyclists use the same roads, there are often problems.

What are the solutions?

Some people think that governments should invest mainly in making public transportation faster while other think there are more important priorities (cost, the environment).

Travel and Tourism

Some think that students must travel to another country in order to learn its language and customs.

Many people today are choosing to travel to other countries.

After graduation many students take a year to travel. Some think that it would be more useful to work for a year.

Some believe that tourism does more to create tension between countries rather than helping individuals better understand other cultures.

Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish.

Discuss views and give your own opinion.

It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives.

Do the advantages of taking these risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Some countries have introduced laws to limit working hours for employees.

Why are these laws introduced?

Do you think they are a positive or negative development?

In the past, most people worked for small businesses, while more people now work for large businesses.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of working for large businesses?

Some people argue that job satisfaction is more important than job security, while others believe that they cannot always expect job satisfaction and a permanent job is more important.

Some think that governments should support retired people financially while others believe they should take care of themselves.

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Will this questions be a possibleb once in ilets writing

Of course – they are all possibilities!

I need 8.5 band

Thank you! This is gem!

You’re welcome!

This website is very useful..thank you Dave.

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IELTS Essay Topics

Different essay topics.

Learn how to write essays on the top 15 topics that occur in the IELTS writing test.

This webpage covers a wide array of subjects, from discussions on culture and tradition to debates about technology and globalization, to help you familiarize yourself with potential essay prompts.

Each section explores a specific theme, providing insights, examples, and potential essay questions to aid your understanding and preparation. Whether you’re studying for the Academic or General Training module, these topics are relevant for both versions of the IELTS exam.

Navigating through my webpage, you’ll find valuable information to enhance your understanding of each topic, equipping you with the knowledge and vocabulary necessary to tackle essay questions effectively. Whether you’re a student aiming for a high band score or a professional seeking to improve your English proficiency, my resource is designed to support your IELTS preparation journey.

Click on each of the headings below to see The following:

• 𝐊𝐞𝐲 𝐕𝐨𝐜𝐚𝐛𝐮𝐥𝐚𝐫𝐲:
• 𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐯𝐢𝐞𝐰 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐈𝐦𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐚𝐧𝐜𝐞:
• 𝐂𝐨𝐦𝐦𝐨𝐧 𝐀𝐫𝐠𝐮𝐦𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬 𝐚𝐧𝐝 𝐃𝐞𝐛𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬:
• 𝐄𝐱𝐚𝐦𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐬 𝐟𝐫𝐨𝐦 𝐂𝐮𝐫𝐫𝐞𝐧𝐭 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐧𝐭𝐬:
• 𝐌𝐨𝐝𝐞𝐥 𝐄𝐬𝐬𝐚𝐲:

Culture & Tradition

Crime and Punishment

Economics and Consumerism

Environment

Family and Relationships

Globalisation

Government and Society

Science & Innovation

Social Issues

Transportation

Work and Careers

You may also like to see the six different types of questions that are asked in the IELTS writing test.

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About Mike I’m Mike Wattie from Australia. I have been teaching IELTS for over 20 years in Asia and Australia.

I have written IELTS books and this enables me to be an effective tutor. This is because I understand the main problems that students have taking the test and also the ways to overcome them.

Maybe you would like me to teach you the necessary skills and strategies to pass your test.

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IELTS Essay Questions for 2022: Top IELTS Writing Topics for Preparation

The IELTS writing section is neither tough or easy. It all depends upon your practice of writing essays. If you master the writing part, you can easily score a good IELTS score. In this article, we have listed the most common IELTS essay questions for the 2022 IELTS exam. Take 1-2 topics a day to get better in the writing section. Now, let’s get started.

IELTS Essay Questions for 2022

Below you will find sets of IELTS essay topics for 2022 IELTS preparation:

IELTS Essay Questions for 2022 Set 1

It is not necessary for people to travel to another place to learn about the culture. We can learn as much from books, films, and the Internet. To what extent do you agree or disagree? As mass communication and transport continue to grow, societies are becoming more and more alike leading to a phenomenon known as globalisation. Some people fear that globalisation will inevitably lead to the total loss of cultural identity. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? The government should control the amount of violence in films and on television in order to decrease violent crimes in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree? In some countries, young people are not only richer but also safer and healthier than ever before. However, they are often less happy and more agitated in actions and behaviours. What do you think are the reasons for this and what can be done to help?

Also Read: IELTS Writing Task 2 Samples: Exam Questions & Answers to Target Minimum Band 8

IELTS Essay Questions for 2022 Set 2

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion. In some countries, more and more people are becoming interested in finding out about the history of the house or building they live in. Give a reason and how people can research it. Some people say that men are naturally more competitive than women, while others believe that there is no difference in the competitiveness of men and women. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion. Some people argue that globalisation has been a great benefit to people around the world, while others believe that it is the cause of many of the problems we see today. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS Essay Questions for 2022 Set 3

Students perform better in school when they are rewarded rather than punished. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Discuss both views and give your own opinion. It is becoming increasingly popular for school leavers to take a year off (a gap year) before going to university. Do the advantages of this outweigh any disadvantages? Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation such as an unsatisfactory job for the shortage of money others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations discuss both these views and give your own opinion Being a celebrity, such as a famous film star or sports personality, brings problems as well as benefits. Do you think that being a celebrity brings more benefits or more problems? It is often said that we live today in a “throwaway society” in which people buy things and soon after throw them away. What are the causes of the “throwaway society”? What problems could the “throwaway society” create?

IELTS Essay Questions for 2022 Set 4

Development in technology has brought various environmental problems. Some believe that people need to live simpler lives to solve environmental issues. Others, however, believe technology is the best way to solve these problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Some countries are considering imposing curfews in which teenagers will not be allowed outdoors at night unless they are accompanied by an adult. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this policy In the past, lectures were the traditional method of teaching large numbers of students in a classroom. Nowadays new technology is increasingly being used to teach students. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this new approach in teaching? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge. Some people believe that women should play an equal role as men in a country’s police force or military force, while others think women are suitable for these kinds of jobs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion?

Also Read: IELTS Essay Topics 2021: Best Essay Writing Topics for IELTS Task 2

IELTS Essay Questions for 2022 Set 5

Lack of fresh water is becoming a global issue of increasing importance. What problems does this shortage cause? What measures could be taken to overcome these problems? Some people think that in this modern world people are getting dependent each other, while others think that this world makes them more independent of each other Discuss both views and give your own opinion Some people claim that the government should provide free healthcare. Others think that the government will not provide the most innovative methods of treatment and it’s better to invest those funds in education and culture. What is your opinion? The world of work is changing rapidly. Working conditions today are not the same as before and people no longer rely on taking one job for life. Discuss the possible causes for these changes and give your suggestions on how people should prepare for work in the future

We hope this post has been helpful in your IELTS preparation. If you take 1-2 topics from this post and practice daily, you will most likely score a higher band in this section.

By stepping onto the right platform, the dream can become a reality. The IELTS Ninja webpage is the best option for you because the specialists will help and guide you tremendously in all aspects of the IELTS exam.

Also Read: Does the IELTS Essay Question Repeat? Here’s all about the IELTS Writing Task 2

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Most Common IELTS Task 2 Topics (In 2024)

The post will give you the 10 most common task 2 topics.

The post will give you the 10 most common IELTS Writing Task 2 topics.

IELTS Writing Topics

A question my students keep asking, repeatedly, is ‘What are the most common IELTS writing part 2 topics?’ They are worried that they won’t be familiar with the topic and will not have any relevant ideas. This is especially true for students from ‘developing’ countries because most of the questions are ‘first world’ problems and issues. Let’s turn that disadvantage into an advantage.

To answer the question, I have asked my students over the last few years to send me the topics on their exams.

A big thank you to those students who were kind enough to send me their questions.  I have built up a huge amount of questions, and I think it is about time to analyse them.

Are the same Writing Task 2 topics repeated?

The answer is yes and no. There are a huge amount of topics that come up in writing task 2. At the last count, there were around 50 different topics (based on collecting data over the last few years), and if you would like all 50, please let me know, but I’m more concerned about the topics that come up again and again. If you have time to familiarise yourself with over 50 topics, then please do, but I think most people have to be smart with their time, and it, therefore, makes more sense to prioritise the most common topics.

I try to encourage my students to be efficient in learning. However, I don’t agree with the saying ‘Work smart, not hard’ as this implies you can do very little work and still achieve your goals. My motto is to work hard and smart.

IELTS Essay Topics

10 general topics come up more often than all of the rest put together. They are:

• Environment
• Development
• Globalisation
• Public Transport
• Criminal Justice
• Youth Crime
• Government Spending

So what can I do with this information?

Now you know the common topics, there are 3 things you can do:

1.  Develop a vocabulary list for each topic

Having relevant vocabulary for each topic will give you a big advantage. Many students fail to provide relevant vocabulary, and their band score suffers.

When looking at new vocabulary, try to guess the meaning from context first and then look up the meaning to ensure your idea matches the actual meaning. Also, be sure to look at the word within a sentence to be aware of how it relates to other words.

When recording vocabulary, do it in a way that will help YOU remember it. Everyone learns differently, and everyone learns vocabulary differently. Some people like to draw pictures beside the word, some like synonyms or antonyms, others prefer to write a few sentences, and others like to use the phonemic chart to write the word that way. Whatever works for you, do it.

It is also very important to review words regularly. This is the most effective way to remember the words. So many people learn lots of words and a week later, they can’t remember them. I would recommend reviewing them one day after learning them for the first time, then one week later and then finally one month later. After that, they should be firmly stuck in your head for good.

I am developing a vocabulary list for each of the topics above, which you can access here.

2. Practice reading and listening within these topics

To do well on your IELTS test, you should practice at home. Even just 60 minutes per day can make a big difference. This will not only improve all four skills but familiarise you with the common topics at the same time. Why waste time listening or reading something if it is about something that probably won’t come up on the test? Unless you are listening or reading for pleasure; in that case, be my guest.

When reading an English newspaper, look for articles on common topics and highlight good vocabulary.

If you like listening to the radio or podcasts, find ones on common topics.

Please check out my 25 online language learning tools for many ways to study at home for free.

3. Study the common topics

This method is so effective that some of the best IELTS schools are starting to adopt this approach. If you are going to study or practice anything, then do it within the context of one of the common topics. For example, if you are practising speaking with a friend on Skype, why not discuss one of the issues above? If you are practising writing essays, find a question about one of the most popular or repeated IELTS topics.

This method allows you to practice both skills and learn about these crucial topics.

They also come up quite a lot in the speaking test.

Can I focus on these topics and get a high band score?

Obviously, there is much more to achieving a high score than just focusing on repeated topics, but this will allow you to study and prepare more smartly and efficiently, giving you a huge advantage.

However, I would like to add that studying things you are passionate about is also important. If you are genuinely interested in a topic, then it is much easier to study, and you are less likely to quit. Please also make time to read, listen, talk and write about your passion. If you love football, read about your team every day on www. goal.com . Love fashion?- find some fashionista blogs. Have a passion for photography?- why not blog about it? Have a passion for astrophysics? Listen to star talk radio.

Here are the latest topics:

• Traditional Culture
• International Aid
• The Environment

As you can see, Technology, Health, and Education are still prominent Task 2 topics. It was interesting to see Traditional Culture popping up twice in such a short period, but that doesn’t mean that it will definitely feature again soon.

I still think that Technology, Health, Education and the Environment are important topics and will regularly feature in the future. Reading about these topics will help you, and you will also pick up other vocabulary just by reading about them.

The important thing is to read actively. When you see a word you don’t know, note it down and find its meaning, collocation and synonyms. Soon you will have a notebook full of new words, and you review them regularly until they become part of your vocabulary.

I recommend looking at our IELTS task 2 page for many more lessons, tips and sample task 2 answers.

Need help writing essays? Check out our ESSAY CORRECTION SERVICE .

The best way to keep up to date with our latest posts is to like our page on Facebook . There are also daily practice activities on our Facebook page.

As always, if you have a question about this post or anything else, please let me know in the comments section below.

About Christopher Pell

My name is Christopher Pell and I'm the Managing Director of IELTS Advantage.

I started IELTS Advantage as a simple blog to help 16 students in my class. Several years later, I am very humbled that my VIP Course has been able to help thousands of people around the world to score a Band 7+ in their IELTS tests.

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IELTS Band 7 Essay Samples

These are IELTS band 7 essay samples that have been given grades (of 7 or 7.5) and basic comments on the score for each criteria by an experienced IELTS instructor. 

View other samples:

• Band 8 Samples
• Band 7 Samples
• Band 6 Samples
• Band 5 Samples
• Band 4 Samples

Topic: Migration to Cities (Band 7)

Young people are leaving their homes in rural areas to work or study in cities. 

What are the reasons?

Do the advantages of this development outweigh the drawbacks?

The comparison of standards of the cities and small town or villages has been always a debate. Recently, teenagers choose to live in the cities rather than their home villages because of school or job opportunities. This essay will discuss multiple reasons behind this trend and explain why the advantages of being in a city do indeed outweigh its drawbacks.

There are several reasons to desire living in urban areas. Firstly, it gives people an opportunity to study in better schools which cannot be found in rural areas. Since in the modern world education means very much for people’s future, it is crucial to have higher education degrees for those individuals to find well-paid jobs. In addition to that, city life provides people with completely different experiences than their home villages. Thanks to the schools, work or social gathering places, they get to meet a greater number of people from all around the country compared to their rural towns which is crucial for one’s personal development. Lastly, in the cities, not only they get bigger number of job options, but also they can earn larger amount of money. It is very well know that job market is significantly limited in the villages also the current jobs barely pay enough.

It is clearly seen that benefits of leaving villages outweigh its few number of deficits. It is worth to mention that people face some issues, such as being away from their extended family, more competitive and challenging job market, and substantially more expensive living cost, when they move to the cities. Advantages like learning and exploring new experiences, getting a better education leading to a better paid job and having an interesting career, however, surpass the number of the drawbacks of this development.

To conclude, there are various reasons for young generation to leave their homes to live in the cities and this movement’s benefits easily outweigh its disadvantages.

Task Response: 7

The question is answered and ideas are supported. The benefits have been discussed in body paragraph one - the drawbacks would need to be given a bit more discussion in the second body paragraph in order to achieve 8 or 9. As the question clearly indicates that there are drawbacks, these should be given adequate attention. 

Coherence & Cohesion: 7

This IELTS band 7 essay sample is well-organised with a mix of transition signals and some good use of referencing and substitution. Slightly too many transitions in initial position in body paragraph one.

Lexical Resource: 7

There is a good mix of relevant topic related vocabulary of reasonably high level and a good awareness of collocation. More uncommon words and phrases would be needed for a band 8.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 7

Good range and mix of complex sentences and forms, though some grammar errors are evident, particularly in the latter part of the essay.

Topic: Lack of Leisure Time (Band 7.5)

In some countries young people have little leisure time and are under a lot of pressure to work hard on their studies.

What do you think are the causes of this?

What solutions can you suggest?

There is no doubt that having some leisure time during studying reenergizes the brain to continue working efficiently. However, students in some countries are under extreme pressure to study hard and therefore, they have minimal leisure time. The possible reasons for this trend as well as suggested solutions will be discussed in details.

One possible reason for students to face a lot of pressure to work hard on their education with no time off would be the high cost of education. For instance, expensive courses put a financial burden on families and students which forces the students to try hard to complete these courses successfully and quickly. As a result, these students ignore the need for some spare time and focus on their study work. Another possible reason would be the amount of study materials which is becoming extensive for a short semester. Consequently, this pressure leaves no choice for students except to study as hard as possible to be able to finish this material on time. Thus, it is obvious that these students have no time left to have some leisure activities.

However, some solutions could be suggested to help solve this problem. One possible solution would be reducing the cost of educational courses in these countries by government fundings. By doing this, both the students and their families would have less financial pressure and therefore the students could be less stressed during their studies which might enable them to have some free time. Another solution would be study groups, if students study in groups, then each one of the group members could summarize part of the curriculum and shares it with the rest of the group. This would save a lot of time for all of the students in the group and as a result the amount of pressure would be reduced. These suggestions could help the students to have some leisure time which is important for them to stay focused.

In conclusion, there are many reasons that put the students in some countries under stress and pressure to study hard and leave them no time for leisure activities, however, the above suggested solutions could tackle this problem and allow the students to have some study free time which is essential for them to recharge their energy.

Task Response: 8

It’s a very good essay that is clearly organised and answers the question. It presents a well-developed response to the question with relevant, extended and supported ideas.

Coherence & Cohesion: 8

Ideas and information are sequenced logically in the IELTS band 7 essay sample; all aspects of cohesion are well-managed; paragraphing is used sufficiently and appropriately. 

Though there is good use of vocabulary and only a few errors, there is not enough evidence of skillfull use of uncommon lexical items to merit an 8.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 8

Uses a wide range of structures; the majority of sentences are error-free; makes only very occasional errors or inappropriacies.

Topic: Dangerous Sports (Band 7)

Large numbers of people participate in sports that are extremely dangerous.

Why do you think people do this?

How can the risks of participation be minimised?

Today many games are being played all over the world. Some of them are extremely risky and life threatening. Despite of these facts their popularity is growing and many people are playing such games on a professional level. This essay will identify the reasons why people are playing such life threatening games and provide some practical approaches to minimize the risk associated with these games.

First of all we need to find out the reason why such dangerous games are becoming so popular. To start with, the major attraction for players is good money that could be earned from a single game in just one day. This type of quick money increases stimulation among many players to adopt games such as boxing, wrestling, bull riding etc. Perhaps, fame and popularity is another compelling reason that encourages people to choose certain games. Furthermore, its proven that it is human nature to accept challenges and do things differently. Many players love to accept challenges and they want to astonish the world by their unique talent and skills.

As these games are now being introduced in the world and many people are joining them it is important to reduce risks by introducing some policies and procedures. For instance, anyone who wants to participate in particular games would not be allowed to play it until he/she deemed hundred per cent competence in required skills and knowledge. Secondly, it is important to endorse high quality personal protection equipment and training to combat risk associated with games.

In conclusion, excellent level of policies, procedures and training are integral part of treating the risks associated with such games.

All parts of the task are covered in this IELTS band 7 essay sample, a clear position is presented. Some main ideas are a bit generalised and would need to be more specific to reach an 8.

Essay is logical with a clear progression. A range of cohesive devices are used. Each paragraph has a clear central idea. Some more sophisticated cohesive devices would be needed for an 8.

Sufficient range of vocab and some less common vocab used, but some errors in word choice / formation prevent a band 8.

The IELTS band 7 essay sample overall has very good grammar, but there is an error in quite a few of the sentences. Most are quite minor but a couple of very noticeable and the candidates need to take care with this to avoid a drop to a 6.

Topic: Reading & Writing Skills (Band 7)

Some people think that the increasing use of computers and mobile phones for communication has a negative effect on young people's reading and writing skills.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is often said that the Internet's creation in the nineteenth made easier the way in which people could learn, work and study. The use of computers and mobile phones was seen at first as a democratization of knowledge, culture, and books. However, I think that this primary ideology was totally wrong following the side effects and trajectory and use of these devices. Indeed. I do think that computers and mobile phones for communication have a negative effect on people's reading and writing skills, especially for young people.  First, young people have been raised with mobiles and computers. The problem is that most of the content shared on computers and mobile phones, especially because of the use of social, are videos, images, and emoticons. For example, to get informed of the news, people used to communicate with others, write letters to people who were informed of the situation, or read newspapers before the Internet was created.  Today, most -if not all young people are being informed by watching videos on the Internet and socials. As a result, we can attest that young people are getting used to a virtual world made of videos and images.  But not only are newspapers concerned, but also all kinds of information. Indeed, when young people, especially students, needed to find information for a school project they were confronted with what a lot of young people are "reluctant to" today: opening a book, an encyclopedia. Indeed, many young people are being disinterested in books as computers and mobiles are making on-web research easier and faster. Young people are, as a result, reading less and hoping to find quickly a piece of information instead of reading an entire article about it. For example, who reads an entire book about a country to communicate with someone from another country when they can just find a short article about the culture they are trying to know better?  Nevertheless, writing skills are also strictly damaged by computers and mobiles. Because we are more connected to people thanks to computers and mobiles, we increase the process of talking with everyone, everywhere, the fastest as it can be. Before, thanks to the use of letters, people had time to think about what they would write and how they would like their text to be perfectly spelled and well written. Not only letters but also phone calls would help people develop their writing skills as you could not use abbreviations and slang as people do every day by texting.  A single image-a yellow face called a smiley- can replace dozens of words if not more. People are developing slang, image, videos, and GIF language instead of writing what they feel, think, and want to say in a text.  Also,  vocal messages become a threat to reading and writing as these two skills are becoming useless in computers and mobile communication. In addition, creating a technology through which users of these devices are enabled to dictate a sentence that the mobile will write in a text makes people even more unskilled in writing and reading.  To conclude, the prominent use of mobiles and computers for communication has numerous negative effects on young people's writing and reading skills. Indeed, it keeps them away from reading and especially writing because of vocal messages and the creation of slang. Communication becomes a way for people to tell what they have to say without thinking about what they are writing and saying. 

Generally a very good answer with lots of support. I think it would be better without this:  "Also,  vocal messages become a threat to reading and writing as these two skills are becoming useless in computers and mobile communication. In addition, creating a technology through which users of these devices are enabled to dictate a sentence that the mobile will write in a text makes people even more unskilled in writing and reading".  You don't explain what you mean about vocal messages. It's not really clear what the overall main idea of this paragraph is.

Coherence & Cohesion: 6

It's a shame as this could have been an 8, but you have this errors in body para 3 - "Nevertheless". This is an additional negative idea, not contrasting information. For 7 and up there can be over/underuse of CC but there shouldn't be errors in use. An examiner might perhaps overlook it and give you 7. Also as I said that last body paragraph is not great for CC.

Lexical Resource: 8

Mostly very good grammar but there are errors - an example:

• use of social - should be 'social media'

Mostly very good grammar but there are errors - some examples:

• newspapers concerned - newspapers can't be 'concerned', not sure what you mean here.
• are being disinterested - should be "are disinterested".
• Indeed. I do (comma, not full stop)

Topic: Job Satisfaction (Band 7.5)

Considering that adults spend much of their lives at work, having job satisfaction is extremely important.

What factors contribute to job satisfaction?

How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all employees?

In this essay, I will state two main factors that contribute to job satisfaction, namely fulfillment and flexibility, and explore possible reasons why job satisfaction, although certainly an objective for many, cannot be achieved by all. Though many companies advertise their employees as satisfied and content, it is undeniable that this cannot always be the case. Few people would believe a manager saying that their factory workers are satisfied. I believe this has a lot to do with the factors that determine job satisfaction. For instance, in most cases, in order for someone to be satisfied at their job there must be something for them to succeed in, be it a personal or shared goal. The factory example works perfectly: people working in a factory hardly find a purpose in what they are doing different to generating a stable monthly income. Flexibility is a second element to be taken into consideration. What is meant by this is not flexible working hours, though those can certainly help too, but rather a chance to do and work on different tasks or projects and maybe even a possibility to scale them. This allows for a use of different skills, or a space to learn them, and constant new stimuli. Unfortunately, many jobs do not offer this kind of opportunity, resulting in repetitive and forced labour and effort. In conclusion, there are many ideas to be developed when talking about factors influencing job satisfaction, such as flexibility and fulfillment, and if some jobs offer both, the vast majority offers neither, which makes it impossible for every employee to experience satisfaction at their jobs.

Nearly an 8 but I think a bit more detail and explanation could be given to some of the ideas and perhaps a few more ideas of support. For instance more could be explained about why or what jobs don’t have flexibility. A band 8 or 9 also is likely to be able to write a bit more.

It’s well organised and all aspects of cohesion are managed well.

Generally very good use of vocabulary with few errors.

You have good grammar here but I think in certain places it could show a bit more sophistication/complexity. For instance, I showed you above where a complex pronoun would be better as without this the sentences look a bit choppy and short. And this sentence sound a bit awkward with two ‘ands’: “resulting in repetitive and forced labour and effort.”

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IELTS Speaking Part 1: Types, Commonly Asked Topics & Tips

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Bonus IELTS Speaking part questions with Answers

“Prepare to impress in IELTS Speaking Part 1 with this 2024 edition guide. Explore the structure, common questions, and detailed expert strategies. “

In this blog, we'll dive deep into the nuances of IELTS Speaking Part 1, providing you with a comprehensive understanding of what to expect and how to prepare effectively, from exploring the types of questions to sharing valuable tips and addressing the crucial parts of the IELTS Speaking test.

What is IELTS Speaking Part 1?

IELTS Speaking Part 1, also known as the "Interview" section, is the first part of the IELTS Speaking test. In this section, the examiner will ask you a series of questions about familiar topics related to your personal life, interests, and experiences. The format is relatively straightforward: you will engage in a short conversation with the examiner, who will ask you questions and expect you to provide comprehensive yet concise responses.

Know about the ‘ Introduction to IELTS Speaking. ’

Types of Questions in IELTS Speaking Part 1

Before we jump right into the topics and questions, it's essential to understand the different types of part 1 speaking questions. The questions can be broadly categorized into the following:

Open-ended questions

These questions require you to provide detailed responses, allowing you to showcase your ability to express yourself fluently and coherently.

Follow-up questions

Based on your initial response, the examiner may ask follow-up questions to probe further or clarify certain points.

Situational questions

These questions may present hypothetical scenarios or situations, requiring you to express your thoughts and opinions.

Here are two helpful interview videos that provide an overview of the IELTS Speaking Part 1:

• IELTS Speaking Practice Test 2024 | BAND 7.0 | FULL IELTS Speaking Interview 2024
• IELTS Speaking Practice Test 2024 | BAND 6.0 | FULL IELTS Speaking Interview

Commonly Asked IELTS Speaking Topics Part 1

In IELTS Speaking Part 1, the questions typically revolve around familiar topics related to your personal life, hobbies, and interests.

Below listed are some of the commonly asked IELTS speaking topics of part 1:

Work and Study

• Your job or studies
• Your typical day
• Your future plans
• Skills and qualifications

Home and Family

• Your family members
• Your living situation
• Household chores and responsibilities
• Childhood memories

Hobbies and Interests

• Sports and activities you enjoy
• Books, movies, or TV shows you like
• Music preferences
• Travel experiences

Daily Life and Routines

• Your morning routine
• Eating habits and food preferences
• Weekend activities
• Transportation and commuting

Remember, these topics serve as a general guide, and the actual questions may vary depending on your specific context and the examiner's approach.

Explore the numerous topics in Speaking Part 1. First impressions count. Don’t miss out on creating your best impression. Do practice these questions -  Speaking Part 1 Topics

Do you panic when you introduce yourself or when someone asks you a question about your habits and lifestyle? Do take a look at them and boost your confidence -  Band 8 Sample Answers

Tips for Nailing IELTS Speaking Part 1 in 2024

To excel in part 1 speaking questions, it's essential to be well-prepared and adopt effective strategies. Here are some tips to help you succeed:

• Practice speaking fluently

Example: Engage in regular conversations with friends or join an English-speaking club to build confidence and fluency.

• Expand your vocabulary

Example: Read extensively, listen to English audio/video materials, and learn new words in context to enhance your lexical range.

• Provide detailed responses

Example: When asked about your hobbies, don't just say "I like reading." Instead, elaborate on the types of books you enjoy, your favorite authors, and why you find reading fulfilling.

• Stay relevant

Example: While it's essential to provide comprehensive responses, ensure that your answers remain relevant to the question asked.

• Maintain a positive attitude

Example: Approach the test with confidence and a friendly demeanor. Remember, the examiner is evaluating your English proficiency, not your personality.

• Use appropriate body language and eye contact

Example: Maintain eye contact with the examiner, nod to show understanding, and use natural gestures to enhance your communication.

• Clarify if needed

Example: If you don't understand a question, politely ask the examiner to repeat or rephrase it.

• Manage your time effectively

Example: Be mindful of the time and avoid prolonged pauses or rambling, as this may negatively impact your fluency score.

• Practice with sample questions

Example: Familiarize yourself with sample questions and practice responding to them within the time constraints.

• Stay calm and focused

Example: If you stumble or make a mistake, don't dwell on it. Maintain your composure and move on to the next question.

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions and Answers - Topics

So here is the list of topics for IELTS speaking part 1 questions and answers:

• Topic: advertisements
• Topic: bags
• Topic: Celebrities
• Topic: Chocolate
• Topic: cooking food
• Topic: dream
• Topic: flowers
• Topic: hats
• Topic: holidays
• Topic: hometown
• Topic: House
• Topic: jobs
• Topic: mirrors
• Topic: noise
• Topic: politeness
• Topic: public transport
• Topic: Study
• Topic: Walking
• Topic: sports
• Topic: rain with
• Topic: teachers
• Topic: Birds
• Topic: bringing things
• Topic: dreams
• Topic: drinking water with
• Topic: Fashion
• Topic: food
• Topic: handwriting
• Topic: holiday
• Topic: jewellery
• Topic: leisure time
• Topic: names
• Topic: patience
• Topic: Photography
• Topic: rain
• Topic: robots
• Topic: Television
• Topic: toys
• Topic: weather
• Topic: reading

IELTS Speaking Part 1 Questions with Band 9 Sample Answers

Below are the links to score Band 9 in Speaking Part 1 with sample answers.

• Topic: Music
• Topic: travel festival
• Topic: accommodation
• Topic: travel
• Topic: running
• Topic: makeup
• Topic: street markets
• Topic: alone
• Topic: efficiency
• Topic: Morning
• Topic: physical exercise
• Topic: Dance
• Topic: shoes
• Topic: Sleep
• Topic: parks and public gardens
• Topic: animals pets
• Topic: City
• Topic: crowded places
• Topic: neighbors
• Topic: Pollution
• Topic: sharing
• Topic: sunglasses
• Topic: Swimming
• Topic: tea coffee
• Topic: housework
• Topic: film movie
• Topic: social network
• Topic: rubbish garbage

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Remember, the key to success in IELTS Speaking Part 1 is to be well-prepared, confident, and able to communicate effectively in English. With dedicated practice and the right strategies, you can ace this section and increase your chances of achieving your desired IELTS score.

Frequently Asked Questions

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Free Tips, Lessons & Model Essays

Success in IELTS writing task 2 is based on using the right techniques. These free tips, model essays, lessons, videos and information will help develop the skills for writing task 2. This page will teach you how to maximise your IELTS writing task 2 score. All lessons are on this page are for both GT and Academic writing task 2.

On this page, you will find for free:

• IELTS WRITING TASK 2 TEST INFORMATION
• PRACTICE ESSAY QUESTIONS
• ESSENTIAL TIPS FOR IELTS ESSAYS
• MODEL ESSAYS
• PRACTICE LESSONS (writing skills, topic ideas etc)

1. IELTS Writing Task 2 Test Information

Learn about your IELTS writing task 2 test. All lessons and tips on this page are for both Academic and GT writing task 2.

• IELTS Writing has two tasks: Task 1 (a report) and Task 2 (an essay).
• The total time is one hour for both tasks. You should spend only 40 mins on task 2.
• The time is yourself to manage. No one will tell you when to move from task 1 to task 2.
• The essay if a formal essay. You should not use informal language in your essay.
• The instructions say “write at least 250 words”. This means you need to write over 250 words.
• Writing task 2 is worth about 66% of your total writing score. Click here: Total Writing Score Calculations
• There are four marking criteria which you must learn about. Click here: WRITING T2 BAND SCORES & MARKING WITH TIPS

The Essay Task

Below is an example task you will be given in IELTS Writing Task 2.

• You will be given a topic.
• Topics contain specific issues or opinions that you must address.
• You are given a task, such as to discuss and give an opinion. 
• Examples are based on your experience of the world in general, not your personal life.
• There are FIVE ESSAY TYPES . 

2. IELTS Practice Essay Questions

Practice essay questions to help you prepare ideas for topics in IELTS writing task 2. These questions have been written based on questions reported by IELTS students.

Over 100 IELTS Essay Questions (repeated topics)

3. Essential IELTS Writing Task 2 Tips

The most important writing tips for a strong IELTS essay in writing task 2. Learn about the recommended essay length, how to plan your essay, when to give your opinion and how to write an introduction etc. Some videos linked below are old, but still 100% relevant today. Click below:

Essay Structure & Paragraphing

Key Linking Words List

Types of IELTS Essays

Essay Planning Tips

Paraphrasing Tips & Examples

Common Essay Topics

When & How to give your opinion

Video  Using the last 5 minutes

4. IELTS Model Essays

IELTS Essays have a specific format, structure, style and band score requirements. These model essays are at band 9 and illustrate how an IELTS writing task 2 essay should be written. Use them as a guide to creating an essay suitable for a high band score in IELTS. Remember, language only counts for about 50% of your marks, the rest is IELTS essay techniques.

• Agree Disagree Opinion Essay: Health
• Advantages & Disadvantages Essay: Language
• Cause  Solution Essay: Crime & Punishment
• Direct Questions Essay: Happiness
• Opinion Essay: Social Media
• Discussion Essay: Work
• Do Advs Outweigh Disavs Essay: Reading
• Direct Questions Essay: Family
• Direct Questions Essay: Art
• Positive or Negative Development: Social Media
• 2 Model Essays about Economy & Money /Buildings
• Model Essay & Question for Topic of Education
• Two Question Essay: Technology
• IELTS ESSAY TOPICS FOR 2024

More Writing Task 2 Tips

• Ideas for Topics Tips with Band Score Info
• Deleting Words in your Essay
• Should I indent the first word of my paragraphs?
• 10 sentences to avoid in your IELTS essay
• Video:  How to add examples to your essay
• Tips: Under Words Penalty
• Can you use quotes, idioms or proverbs in your essay?
• Handwriting: Using cursive writing or not
• Video : Grammar – How to Add a Clause
• Video : Grammar – Connecting Sentences

5. Practice Lessons for Writing Task 2

Various lessons for: IELTS Essay Writing Skills, Topics, Language 

• Improving Sentences for a Higher Score
• Essay Ideas: Advertising to Children in Schools
• Essay Topics for 2024
• IELTS Essay Topics Prediction 2022
• Grammar Test : Using “the” with countries and nationalities
• Paraphrasing Practice
• Using Passive Voice for Giving Opinions
• Essay Ideas: Employment Competition
• Essay Ideas: The Importance of History
• Essay Ideas: Housing & Trees 
• Essay Ideas: International Aid
• Essay Ideas: City Transport
• Essay Ideas: Salaries
• Essay Ideas: Function of Schools
• Essay Ideas: Female Staff in Senior Positions
• Writing Skills: Punctuation Practice
• Writing Skills: Linking Word Practice
• Essay Ideas: Littering in Cities
• Listen and Write Dictation: Natural Disasters
• Discussion Essay with Feedback: Music Topic
• Writing Skills: Improving Sentences: Ebooks Topic
• Essay Ideas: Banning Mobile Phones
• Two Question Essay with Feedback: Judging Business Success
• Essay Ideas: Tourism and Local Communities
• Essay Ideas: Traffic & Pollution
• Writing Skills: Improving a Thesis Statement
• Writing Skills: Improving Sentences (1)
• Essay Ideas: Handwriting Skills
• Essay Ideas: Older or Younger Leaders
• Writing Skills: Introduction Feedback
• Writing Skill: Opinion Essay Introduction Feedback
• Writing Skills: Opinion Essay Body Paragraphs
• Writing Skills: Opinion Essay Introduction
• Writing Skills: Opinion Essay Finding Main Points
• Writing Skills: Thesis Statement
• Essay Ideas: Public Services .

………………

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• Writing Task 1
• Writing Task 2

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How to Ace the IELTS Speaking Task: Describing a Difficult Financial Decision

The IELTS Speaking test often includes questions about personal experiences and decision-making. One common topic that may arise is describing a time when you had to make a difficult financial decision. This article will provide you with valuable insights and tips to help you excel in this particular speaking task, focusing on the key aspects that examiners look for in high-scoring responses.

Table of Contents

• 1 Understanding the Task
• 2.1 Q: Do you think it’s important to save money?
• 3.1 Sample Answer (Band 8-9)
• 3.2 Examiner’s Follow-up Questions
• 4.1 Q: Do you think young people today face more difficult financial decisions than previous generations?
• 4.2 Q: How can governments help citizens make better financial decisions?
• 5 Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores
• 6 Examiner’s Advice

Understanding the Task

Before we dive into specific strategies, it’s essential to understand what the examiner is looking for when asking about a difficult financial decision. They want to assess your ability to:

• Clearly describe a specific situation
• Express your thoughts and feelings about the decision
• Explain the reasoning behind your choice
• Discuss the outcomes and lessons learned

By addressing these points, you’ll demonstrate your English language proficiency and your capacity for critical thinking and self-reflection.

Part 1: Introduction and Interview

While the main focus of this topic is likely to appear in Part 2 or Part 3 of the Speaking test, you may encounter related questions in Part 1. Here are some possible questions and sample answers:

Q: Do you think it’s important to save money?

Band 6-7 Answer: “Yes, I believe saving money is crucial. It helps us prepare for unexpected expenses and future goals. I try to set aside some money each month, although it’s not always easy.”

Band 8-9 Answer: “Absolutely. I consider saving money to be fundamental to financial stability and personal growth. It not only provides a safety net for unforeseen circumstances but also enables us to pursue long-term aspirations . Personally, I adhere to a strict budgeting system to ensure I consistently save a portion of my income.”

Part 2: Long Turn (Cue Card)

Here’s a sample cue card related to the topic:

Describe A Time When You Had To Make A Difficult Financial Decision . You should say:

• What the decision was
• When you had to make this decision
• Why it was difficult
• And explain the outcome of your decision

Sample Answer (Band 8-9)

“I’d like to share an experience from a couple of years ago when I had to make a challenging financial decision regarding my education. I was offered a place in a prestigious master’s program abroad, which had been a long-standing dream of mine. However, accepting this offer meant taking on a substantial student loan that would take years to repay.

The decision was particularly difficult because it involved weighing long-term benefits against short-term financial strain . On one hand, the program promised enhanced career prospects and personal growth. On the other, the debt I would incur was daunting, and there was no guarantee of immediate employment after graduation.

After thorough deliberation and discussions with my family and mentors, I decided to accept the offer and take on the loan. I meticulously planned my finances, looking into part-time work opportunities and scholarships to mitigate the financial burden .

The outcome of this decision has been largely positive. While I’m still in the process of repaying the loan, the education I received has opened doors to opportunities I might not have had otherwise. It has enhanced my skill set and given me a global perspective that is invaluable in today’s job market. Moreover, the experience of making such a significant decision has bolstered my financial literacy and decision-making skills.

In retrospect, while the decision was undoubtedly challenging, it has proven to be a pivotal moment in my personal and professional development. It taught me the importance of investing in oneself and taking calculated risks for long-term gains.”

Examiner’s Follow-up Questions

• How did you feel immediately after making this decision?
• Would you make the same decision if you could go back in time?

Band 8-9 Answers:

“Immediately after making the decision, I experienced a mix of emotions . There was a sense of exhilaration about the opportunities that lay ahead, coupled with a degree of trepidation about the financial responsibility I was undertaking. I felt both empowered by taking control of my future and somewhat overwhelmed by the magnitude of the commitment. However, I also felt a sense of relief that the decision-making process was over, allowing me to focus on preparing for this new chapter in my life.”

“If I could go back in time, I would unequivocally make the same decision. The benefits I’ve reaped from this experience far outweigh the financial challenges. It has not only enhanced my career prospects but also contributed significantly to my personal growth. The decision taught me valuable lessons about financial management, perseverance, and the importance of investing in oneself. While the journey hasn’t been without its difficulties, it has shaped me into a more resilient and capable individual . The skills and perspectives I’ve gained are invaluable assets that will continue to serve me well throughout my life and career.”

Part 3: Two-way Discussion

In this section, the examiner might ask more abstract questions related to financial decision-making. Here are some potential questions and sample answers:

Q: Do you think young people today face more difficult financial decisions than previous generations?

Band 6-7 Answer: “Yes, I think young people today face more challenging financial decisions. The cost of living has increased, and there’s more pressure to get higher education, which can be expensive. Also, the job market is more competitive now.”

Band 8-9 Answer: “I firmly believe that the financial landscape for young people today is significantly more complex than it was for previous generations. Several factors contribute to this complexity:

Firstly, the cost of essential needs , such as housing and education, has skyrocketed in many parts of the world, often outpacing wage growth. This creates a challenging environment where young people must make difficult trade-offs between immediate financial stability and long-term investments in their future.

Secondly, the job market has become increasingly volatile and competitive . The rise of the gig economy and automation has disrupted traditional career paths , forcing young people to be more adaptable and strategic in their career choices and financial planning.

Moreover, young people today are faced with a plethora of financial products and investment options that didn’t exist for previous generations. While this offers more opportunities, it also requires a higher level of financial literacy to navigate effectively.

Lastly, global issues such as climate change and economic instability add another layer of uncertainty, compelling young people to consider factors beyond immediate personal gain when making financial decisions.

In light of these challenges, I believe it’s crucial for society to prioritize financial education and create supportive systems to help young people make informed decisions in this complex financial landscape.”

Q: How can governments help citizens make better financial decisions?

Band 8-9 Answer: “Governments can play a pivotal role in empowering citizens to make sound financial decisions through various initiatives:

Enhancing financial literacy : Implementing comprehensive financial education programs in schools and communities can equip individuals with the knowledge and skills needed to navigate complex financial landscapes. This could include teachings on budgeting, investing, and understanding financial products.

Regulatory measures : Governments can enact and enforce regulations that promote transparency in financial products and services. This might involve mandating clear disclosure of terms and conditions, fees, and potential risks associated with various financial products.

Consumer protection : Establishing robust consumer protection agencies can help safeguard citizens against predatory financial practices and provide recourse in cases of financial misconduct.

Incentivizing savings and responsible financial behavior : Governments can introduce tax incentives or matching programs to encourage long-term savings, retirement planning, and responsible debt management.

Providing accessible financial counseling : Offering free or subsidized financial advisory services can help citizens, especially those from lower-income backgrounds, make informed decisions about their finances.

Leveraging technology : Governments can support the development of user-friendly apps and online tools that help citizens budget, track expenses, and plan for their financial future.

Addressing systemic issues : By tackling broader economic challenges such as income inequality and the rising cost of living, governments can create an environment where making sound financial decisions becomes more feasible for all citizens.

By implementing these measures, governments can foster a more financially literate and empowered citizenry, ultimately contributing to greater economic stability and individual financial well-being.”

Key Vocabulary and Phrases for High Scores

To elevate your speaking performance, incorporate these advanced vocabulary items and phrases:

Fiscal responsibility /ˈfɪskəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ (noun): The obligation to handle financial matters prudently. Example: “The decision taught me the importance of fiscal responsibility.”

To weigh the pros and cons (phrase): To consider the advantages and disadvantages before making a decision. Example: “I carefully weighed the pros and cons before taking on the student loan.”

Financial implications /faɪˈnænʃəl ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ (noun phrase): The potential consequences or effects on one’s finances. Example: “I had to consider the long-term financial implications of my decision.”

To bite the bullet (idiom): To decide to do something difficult or unpleasant that one has been avoiding. Example: “After much deliberation, I finally bit the bullet and accepted the loan offer.”

Pecuniary /pɪˈkjuːniəri/ (adjective): Relating to or consisting of money. Example: “The pecuniary aspects of the decision were challenging to navigate.”

Examiner’s Advice

To excel in this speaking task, focus on the following:

Specificity : Provide concrete details about your financial decision to make your answer more vivid and engaging.

Structure : Organize your response logically, addressing all points in the cue card.

Reflection : Demonstrate critical thinking by explaining your reasoning and the lessons learned.

Vocabulary : Use a range of advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions related to finance and decision-making.

Fluency : Practice speaking on this topic to improve your ability to discuss financial matters smoothly and confidently.

By following these guidelines and incorporating the sample answers and vocabulary provided, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle questions about difficult financial decisions in your IELTS Speaking test. Remember, the key is to demonstrate your language skills while providing thoughtful and well-structured responses.

For more tips on acing the IELTS Speaking test, check out our guide on describing a time when you overcame a personal challenge and making a positive change in your life .

• speaking topics
• Vocabulary List

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Mastering IELTS Speaking: How to Describe Working with Someone with Different Ideas

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Albert Einstein Reading Answers: IELTS Reading Practice Test

Updated on Sep 06, 2024, 11:06

The passage provides a brief biography of Albert Einstein, highlighting his early life, education, scientific achievements, and personal struggles. Born in 1879 in Germany, Einstein showed an early interest in science, particularly after receiving a magnetic compass from his father. Despite challenges in traditional education, he excelled in mathematics and physics, eventually working at a Swiss patent office where he developed groundbreaking theories. 

The passage also touches on his troubled personal life, including his marriage to Mileva, their children’s health issues, and his move to the United States to escape Nazi persecution. Einstein remained in the U.S. until his death in 1955.

This passage is valuable for IELTS Reading preparation as it requires synthesising biographical information, understanding chronological events, and identifying key details about a historical figure. It tests your ability to interpret factual information, infer implied meanings, and comprehend complex sentences, all of which are essential for tackling different types of questions in the IELTS Reading section, such as matching information, sentence completion, and true/false/not given tasks.

On this page

1. Albert Einstein Reading Passage

You should spend approximately 20 minutes answering Questions 1 - 13 based on the Reading Passage below.

2. Albert Einstein Reading Question & Answers

Discover exciting and informative IELTS reading answers about Albert Einstein Reading Questions & Answers.

More for you

Boost your IELTS Reading score

See how to score 8+ in Speaking. 

Get proven strategies to ace your IELTS Speaking test.

Albert Einstein Reading Passage

• Read Instructions: Understand each question before answering.
• Manage Time: Spend about 20 minutes per passage.
• Skim and Scan: Quickly get the main idea and find specific information.
• Highlight Key Info: Underline essential words or phrases.
• Answer All Questions: Attempt every question; no penalty for wrong answers.
• Stay Focused: Avoid distractions and keep your attention on the task.
• Check Spelling: Ensure correct spelling and grammar.
• Transfer Answers Clearly: Write answers neatly on the answer sheet.
• Don’t Dwell: Move on if stuck and return later.
• Review: If time allows, review your answers.

Paragraph A Albert Einstein is one of, if not the most well-known scientists from the 20th century. In 1921, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the theories of special and general relativity. His views on the nature of matter, gravity, space, and time are widely known. His most famous idea is that matter and force are really just different names for the same thing. Einstein was born on March 14, 1879. He lived in a city called Wurttemberg, located in Germany. His family was Jewish, but while growing up without much of a religious upbringing, he eventually developed a strong interest in Judaism. Einstein did not begin speaking until he was three years old, as is widely documented. Speaking was so difficult for him that his family worried he might never begin. When he was four years old, Einstein's father gave him a magnetic compass. This compass inspired him to explore the field of science. He was interested as to why, regardless of how he turned the compass, the needle always pointed north. It looked like the needle was moving by itself.  

Paragraph B The needle was sealed inside its container, therefore it goes without saying that the wind could not have moved it. As a result, Einstein developed a passion for mathematics and the natural sciences. He had taught himself Euclidean geometry by the time he was 12 since he was so intelligent. At the ripe old age of fifteen, he began his formal education in Munich, which he found to be a dull endeavour. After completing high school in Aarau, Switzerland, he moved to Zurich and enrolled in the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, where he graduated in 1900. However, Einstein also had issues with the curriculum there. He frequently skipped class in favor, on his own violin practice or physics studies. On the other hand, he was able to pass his exams by consulting a classmate's notes. His academics didn't think much of him and wouldn't suggest him for a teaching post. He was able to land a job in a Swiss patent office in this way. He produced works there that would eventually establish him as a well-known figure in the scientific community.

Paragraph C Einstein had two severely mentally challenged kids with his first wife, Mileva. He had a daughter before his wedding to her in January 1902. Her name has been lost to history. Her grandparents from Serbia cared for her till she went away when she was just two years old. Although her death was often attributed to scarlet fever, there is some evidence to suggest she may have had Down syndrome. However, there is insufficient evidence to draw any firm conclusions. In truth, Mileva was unknown until the discovery of 54 love letters between Einstein and his granddaughter in 2003. She uncovered the correspondence while cleaning out their California attic and found it in a shoe box. The Einsteins' son, Eduard, has a mental disorder called schizophrenia. After spending years in a hospital, he eventually passed away in Zurich, Switzerland, in 1965. Just prior to the start of World War I, Einstein moved back to Germany and accepted a post as the headmaster of a school. In 1933, he fled Nazi persecution by moving to the United States, where he remained until his death on April 18, 1955.

Albert Einstein Reading Question & Answers

Questions and answers 1-8.

• TRUE if the statement agrees with the information
• FALSE if the statement contradicts the information
• NOT GIVEN if there is no information on this in the passage

1. A key concept in contemporary physics is the general theory of relativity. 2. People around Einstein believed he would never be able to talk because of his linguistic difficulties. 3. Einstein reasoned that only wind could be causing the compass needle to sway. 4. Einstein had positive experiences with educational practices in Switzerland. 5. A self-taught musician, Einstein was able to play the violin. 6. His two-year-old daughter died of schizophrenia. 7. It wasn't until between 1897 and 1903 that the world learned about a daughter. 8. Einstein relocated to the United States in 1933, where he became a citizen.

Albert Einstein Reading Answers with Explanations (1-8)

Question Type:  True/False/Not Given

In this task, you are presented with a statement, and your task is to determine if it agrees with the information in the passage (True), contradicts the information in the passage (False), or if there is insufficient information in the passage to decide (not given).  

How to best answer the question:

• Read the statement carefully to ensure you understand exactly what it is saying. 
• Pay attention to details such as dates, numbers, and specific information.
• Scan the passage to find the section where the relevant information is likely to be located. 
• Focus on finding evidence that either supports or contradicts the statement.
• True: If the statement agrees with the information in the passage.
• False: If the statement contradicts the information in the passage.
• Not Given: If there is no information in the passage that confirms or contradicts the statement.   

Reference:   Paragraph A In 1921, he was awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics for the theories of special and general relativity. Explanation:  The statement is correct because the paragraph explicitly mentions that Einstein received the Nobel Prize in Physics for his work on the theories of special and general relativity, highlighting their importance in contemporary physics.

Reference:   Paragraph A Einstein did not begin speaking until he was three years old, as is widely documented. Speaking was so difficult for him that his family worried he might never begin. Explanation :  This statement is accurate as the paragraph discusses Einstein's delayed speech development and how it concerned his family, reflecting the belief that he might never talk.  

Reference:   Paragraph B The needle was sealed inside its container, therefore it goes without saying that the wind could not have moved it. Explanation :  The statement contradicts the passage because it clearly states that Einstein realised the wind could not have been responsible for the movement of the compass needle, leading him to develop a passion for mathematics and the natural sciences.

Reference:   Paragraph B At the ripe old age of fifteen, he began his formal education in Munich, which he found to be a dull endeavour. Explanation:  The statement is false because the paragraph describes Einstein's formal education in Munich as dull, indicating he did not have positive experiences with educational practices there, contrary to what the statement suggests.  

Reference:   Not available Explanation:   The passage does not mention anything about Einstein being a self-taught musician or his ability to play the violin, so the statement is not given.

Reference:   Not available Explanation:   The passage provides no information regarding Einstein's daughter's cause of death being schizophrenia, so the statement is not given.

Reference:   Paragraph C Mileva was unknown until the discovery of 54 love letters between Einstein and his granddaughter in 2003.  

Explanation:  The statement is false because it indicates that the world learned about a daughter between 1897 and 1903, while the paragraph clarifies that her existence was not known until the discovery of love letters in 2003.

Reference:   Not available Explanation:   The passage does not provide any details about Einstein relocating to the United States in 1933 and becoming a citizen, so the statement is not given.

Read more about  Dictation Words for IELTS: Practice and Preparation !

Questions and Answers 9-11

Choose the correct letter, A, B, C, or D .

9. Einstein's daughter's name

A. is a mystery

B. was not chosen by him

C. was discovered in a shoe box

D. is shared by his granddaughter

10. His professors would not put him up for a teaching post at a university because

A. he seldom skipped classes

B. they did not think highly of him

C. they thought he was a Nazi

D. his wife was Serbian

11. Albert Einstein, a well-known scientist, was of

A. American origin

B. Austrian origin

C. Jewish origin

D. Swiss origin

Albert Einstein Reading Answers with Explanations (9-11)

Question Type: Multiple Choice 

Multiple Choice questions in the IELTS reading test present you with a question followed by a set of options from which you must choose the correct answer. Typically, there are three or four options to choose from. You must carefully read the question and each option before selecting the correct answer.  

How to best answer this question:

• You must comprehend the passage to select the most accurate option.
• Efficient skimming and scanning help locate relevant information quickly.
• Some options may be designed to mislead you, so it's crucial to base your choice on evidence from the passage.
• Multiple-choice questions can be time-consuming if you dwell on each option too long. Manage your time wisely to ensure you can attempt all questions.

Reference:  Paragraph C He had a daughter before his wedding to her in January 1902. Her name has been lost to history.

Explanation:   The correct answer is A because the paragraph directly states that the daughter's name is unknown, which makes the name a mystery.

Reference:  Paragraph B His academics didn't think much of him and wouldn't suggest him for a teaching post.

Explanation :  The correct answer is B because the paragraph explicitly mentions that his professors did not think highly of him and thus did not recommend him for a teaching post.

Reference:  Paragraph A Einstein was born on March 14, 1879, in Wurttemberg, Germany. His family was Jewish.

Explanation:   The correct answer is C because the paragraph clearly states that Einstein was of Jewish origin, providing the necessary information about his heritage.

Read more about  A Guide on Most Common English Words Used in Daily Life !

Questions and Answers 12-13

• Complete the sentences below.
• Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the text for each answer.

He sought to figure out how the needle might appear to move such that it always 12.______.

He frequently skipped lessons in order to study physics or perform music 13.______

Albert Einstein Reading Answers with Explanations (12-13)

Type of question: Sentence Completion

To answer sentence completion questions accurately, read the given sentence carefully and identify the missing word or phrase. Then, consider the context to determine the most suitable answer option that completes the sentence appropriately. Choosing the option that best fits the context will help you answer sentence completion questions accurately.

How to best answer the question

• Carefully read the incomplete sentence and try to understand what information is missing.
• Pay attention to the context and any clues provided in the sentence or the surrounding text.
• Choose the option that best completes the sentence based on the information from the reading passage.

Reference:  Paragraph A He was interested as to why, regardless of how he turned the compass, the needle always pointed north.

Explanation:  The correct completion of the sentence is "pointed north," as the paragraph explains that Einstein was fascinated by the compass needle's consistent alignment to the north, which sparked his curiosity in science.

Reference:  Paragraph B He frequently skipped class in favour on his own violin practice or physics studies. Explanation:  The correct completion of the sentence is "on his own," as the paragraph indicates that Einstein often missed classes to engage in personal activities, such as playing the violin or studying physics, showing his self-directed approach to learning.

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Q. What types of questions are in the IELTS Reading section?

Ans.  The IELTS Reading section features various question types, including multiple-choice, true/false/not given, matching headings, summary completion, sentence completion, and short answer questions. These are designed to test a range of reading skills, such as understanding main ideas, detail, logical argument, and recognising writers' opinions, attitudes, and purposes.

Q. How long is the IELTS Reading test? 

Ans. The IELTS Reading test lasts for 60 minutes. During this time, candidates must read three passages and answer a total of 40 questions. Time management is crucial to ensure all questions are attempted.

Q. Can I write on the question paper? 

Ans. Yes, candidates are allowed to write on the question paper, which can help note key points or highlight important information. However, only answers written on the answer sheet will be marked, so it is essential to transfer answers accurately.