Many people don’t feel safe either when they are at home or when they go out.
What are the reasons for this?
What can be done to solve this problem?
Many people today report feeling unsafe both in their own homes and in public spaces. This anxiety stems from rising exposure to crime through media and real experiences of social disorder. Although the problem is complex, practical measures by governments can significantly improve public confidence and safety.
The major reasons for this fear are constant exposure to crime-related content and entrenched inequality. Twenty-four-hour news channels and social media platforms frequently highlight violent incidents, home invasions, and random attacks, even if these events are statistically rare. For example, after widely reported knife crimes in cities like London, many residents began installing surveillance cameras and avoiding public transport at night, despite overall crime rates declining in most boroughs. In addition, economic inequality and unemployment can contribute to higher levels of theft and burglary in certain neighborhoods, making people feel vulnerable even inside gated apartment complexes. Poor street lighting, abandoned buildings, and limited police presence further intensify the perception that no area is truly secure.
To address this issue, governments should focus on both prevention and reassurance. Increasing visible community policing, as seen in parts of Tokyo with its local “koban” police boxes, can deter petty crime and create a sense of approachability between officers and residents. Investment in urban design is also crucial: better lighting, functional CCTV systems, and well-maintained public spaces reduce opportunities for crime. As an extension, social policies that tackle root causes, such as job training programs for unemployed youth and mental health support, can prevent criminal behavior before it occurs. These combined efforts will produce the most effective, longest-lasting results.
In conclusion, fear of crime is fueled by media exposure, social inequality, and visible disorder. However, through improved policing, smarter urban planning, and stronger social support systems, governments can foster safer environments and restore public trust.
Analysis
1. Many people today report feeling unsafe both in their own homes and in public spaces. 2. This anxiety stems from rising exposure to crime through media and real experiences of social disorder. 3. Although the problem is complex, practical measures by governments can significantly improve public confidence and safety.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
Generally write 2 sentences but 3 is ok for the introduction.
1. The major reasons for this fear are constant exposure to crime-related content and entrenched inequality. 2. Twenty-four-hour news channels and social media platforms frequently highlight violent incidents, home invasions, and random attacks, even if these events are statistically rare. 3. For example, after widely reported knife crimes in cities like London, many residents began installing surveillance cameras and avoiding public transport at night, despite overall crime rates declining in most boroughs. 4. In addition, economic inequality and unemployment can contribute to higher levels of theft and burglary in certain neighborhoods, making people feel vulnerable even inside gated apartment complexes. 5. Poor street lighting, abandoned buildings, and limited police presence further intensify the perception that no area is truly secure.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Better to have more detail.
1. To address this issue, governments should focus on both prevention and reassurance. 2. Increasing visible community policing, as seen in parts of Tokyo with its local “koban” police boxes, can deter petty crime and create a sense of approachability between officers and residents. 3. Investment in urban design is also crucial: better lighting, functional CCTV systems, and well-maintained public spaces reduce opportunities for crime. 4. As an extension, social policies that tackle root causes, such as job training programs for unemployed youth and mental health support, can prevent criminal behavior before it occurs. 5. These combined efforts will produce the most effective, longest-lasting results.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
This essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
1. In conclusion, fear of crime is fueled by media exposure, social inequality, and visible disorder. 2. However, through improved policing, smarter urban planning, and stronger social support systems, governments can foster safer environments and restore public trust.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many people today report feeling unsafe both in their own homes and in public spaces. This anxiety stems from rising exposure to crime through media and real experiences of social disorder. Although the problem is complex, practical measures by governments can significantly improve public confidence and safety.
The major reasons for this fear are constant exposure to crime-related content and entrenched inequality. Twenty-four-hour news channels and social media platforms frequently highlight violent incidents, home invasions, and random attacks, even if these events are statistically rare. For example, after widely reported knife crimes in cities like London, many residents began installing surveillance cameras and avoiding public transport at night, despite overall crime rates declining in most boroughs. In addition, economic inequality and unemployment can contribute to higher levels of theft and burglary in certain neighborhoods, making people feel vulnerable even inside gated apartment complexes. Poor street lighting, abandoned buildings, and limited police presence further intensify the perception that no area is truly secure.
To address this issue, governments should focus on both prevention and reassurance. Increasing visible community policing, as seen in parts of Tokyo with its local “koban” police boxes, can deter petty crime and create a sense of approachability between officers and residents. Investment in urban design is also crucial: better lighting, functional CCTV systems, and well-maintained public spaces reduce opportunities for crime. As an extension, social policies that tackle root causes, such as job training programs for unemployed youth and mental health support, can prevent criminal behavior before it occurs. These combined efforts will produce the most effective, longest-lasting results.
In conclusion, fear of crime is fueled by media exposure, social inequality, and visible disorder. However, through improved policing, smarter urban planning, and stronger social support systems, governments can foster safer environments and restore public trust.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
report feeling unsafe – express a sense of insecurity
their own homes – their private residences
in public spaces – in communal areas
This anxiety stems from rising exposure to – This concern arises from increased exposure to
media – mass communication outlets
real experiences of social disorder – direct encounters with public disturbance
complex – multifaceted
practical measures by governments – concrete government actions
significantly improve public confidence and safety – greatly enhance societal trust and security
The major reasons for this fear – The primary causes of this concern
constant exposure to crime-related content – continual contact with reports of criminal activity
social media platforms frequently highlight violent incidents – online networks often emphasize acts of violence
home invasions – residential break-ins
random attacks – unprovoked assaults
even if these events are statistically rare – although such incidents are uncommon in statistical terms
after widely reported knife crimes in – following extensively covered stabbings in
many residents began installing surveillance cameras and avoiding public transport at night – numerous inhabitants started setting up security cameras and refraining from nighttime transit use
despite overall crime rates declining in most boroughs – notwithstanding a general decrease in offences across many districts
economic inequality – income disparity
contribute to higher levels of theft and burglary in certain neighborhoods – lead to increased rates of stealing and break-ins in particular areas
feel vulnerable – experience a sense of exposure to harm
inside gated apartment complexes – within secured residential compounds
Poor street lighting – inadequate illumination on roads
abandoned buildings – derelict properties
limited police presence further intensify the perception that no area is truly secure – insufficient law enforcement visibility heightens the belief that nowhere is completely safe
To address this issue – To tackle this problem
focus on both prevention and reassurance – concentrate on deterrence and public reassurance
Increasing visible community policing – Expanding noticeable neighborhood patrols
local “koban” police boxes – small community-based police posts
deter petty crime – discourage minor offences
create a sense of approachability between officers and residents – foster closer rapport between police and the public
Investment in urban design – Funding improvements in city planning
crucial – essential
better lighting – enhanced illumination
functional CCTV systems – operational surveillance cameras
well-maintained public spaces – properly cared-for communal areas
reduce opportunities for crime – limit chances for criminal activity
As an extension – Furthermore
job training programs for unemployed youth and mental health support – vocational schemes for jobless young people alongside psychological assistance
prevent criminal behavior before it occurs – stop unlawful conduct prior to its emergence
These combined efforts – Such coordinated measures
produce the most effective – yield the greatest impact
longest-lasting results – most enduring outcomes
fear of crime is fueled by – anxiety about crime is driven by
social inequality – societal disparity
visible disorder – observable signs of neglect
through improved policing – by enhancing law enforcement
smarter urban planning – more strategic city development
stronger social support systems – more robust welfare networks
foster safer environments and restore public trust – cultivate more secure surroundings and rebuild community confidence
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many people today report ________ unsafe both in their _______ homes and in ______ spaces. This anxiety ____________ exposure to crime through m_____a and real _____________disorder. Although the problem is c________x, practical ____________governments can significantly _____________________________ safety.
The_____________________ fear are constant _______________________ content and entrenched _________y. Twenty-four-hour ______ channels and social ________________________________ incidents, home_________s, and random _______s, even ______________________________ rare. For example, after _______________________ in cities like London, many ___________________________________________________________________________________________ night, despite_______________________________________ boroughs. In addition, economic___________y and unemployment can contribute to_____________________________________ neighborhoods, making people feel ________e even inside _________________ complexes. Poor __________ lighting, abandoned_________s, and limited _________________________________________________________ secure.
To ________________ issue, governments should focus ___________________ reassurance. Increasing __________________ policing, as seen in parts of Tokyo with its local _____________ boxes, can deter _______crime and create __________________________________ residents. Investment __________ design is also crucial: better __________, functional ______________, and _____________________________________________ opportunities for crime. As ____extension, social policies that tackle root causes, such as job ____________________________________________________________support, can prevent __________________________ occurs. These _____________efforts will produce _________________, longest-lasting results.
In conclusion, fear _________________ by media exposure, social __________y, and visible __________r. However, through _______________policing, smarter ___________planning, and stronger ______________ systems, governments can foster _____________________________ trust.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Some countries are struggling with increases in crime rates. Some believe that having more police on the streets is best way to reduce and combat crime.
It is a natural process that animal species such as dinosaurs become extinct. There is no reason for people to prevent this from happening.
Do you agree or disagree?
Some people believe that animal extinction is a natural process and that humans should not attempt to prevent it. Others argue that people have a responsibility to protect endangered species. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I disagree with the contention that extinction should simply be accepted.
On the one hand, extinction has occurred throughout Earth’s history without human involvement. Dinosaurs, for example, disappeared due to natural catastrophes such as asteroids and extreme climate change. Similarly, many ancient species failed to survive ice ages or volcanic eruptions because they could not adapt quickly enough. From this perspective, extinction can be seen as a normal part of evolution, allowing stronger or more adaptable species to replace weaker ones.
On the other hand, most animal extinctions today are closely linked to human activities rather than natural forces. Species such as elephants and rhinos are endangered mainly because of poaching, while animals like orangutans are losing their habitats due to deforestation for agriculture and housing. For instance, large areas of rainforest are cleared each year to produce palm oil, directly destroying ecosystems that took thousands of years to develop.
In my opinion, because humans are the primary cause of modern extinctions, they also have a moral and practical responsibility to protect biodiversity. Allowing human-driven species loss to continue unchecked would be both irresponsible and dangerous.
Analysis
1. Some people believe that animal extinction is a natural process and that humans should not attempt to prevent it. Others argue that people have a responsibility to protect endangered species. 2. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I disagree with the contention that extinction should simply be accepted.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. On the one hand, extinction has occurred throughout Earth’s history without human involvement. 2. Dinosaurs, for example, disappeared due to natural catastrophes such as asteroids and extreme climate change. 3. Similarly, many ancient species failed to survive ice ages or volcanic eruptions because they could not adapt quickly enough. 4. From this perspective, extinction can be seen as a normal part of evolution, allowing stronger or more adaptable species to replace weaker ones.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
1. On the other hand, most animal extinctions today are closely linked to human activities rather than natural forces. 2. Species such as elephants and rhinos are endangered mainly because of poaching, while animals like orangutans are losing their habitats due to deforestation for agriculture and housing. 3. For instance, large areas of rainforest are cleared each year to produce palm oil, directly destroying ecosystems that took thousands of years to develop.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
1. In my opinion, because humans are the primary cause of modern extinctions, they also have a moral and practical responsibility to protect biodiversity. 2. Allowing human-driven species loss to continue unchecked would be both irresponsible and dangerous.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Some people believe that animal extinction is a natural process and that humans should not attempt to prevent it. Others argue that people have a responsibility to protect endangered species. This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I disagree with the contention that extinction should simply be accepted.
On the one hand, extinction has occurred throughout Earth’s history without human involvement. Dinosaurs, for example, disappeared due to natural catastrophes such as asteroids and extreme climate change. Similarly, many ancient species failed to survive ice ages or volcanic eruptions because they could not adapt quickly enough. From this perspective, extinction can be seen as a normal part of evolution, allowing stronger or more adaptable species to replace weaker ones.
On the other hand, most animal extinctions today are closely linked to human activities rather than natural forces. Species such as elephants and rhinos are endangered mainly because of poaching, while animals like orangutans are losing their habitats due to deforestation for agriculture and housing. For instance, large areas of rainforest are cleared each year to produce palm oil, directly destroying ecosystems that took thousands of years to develop.
In my opinion, because humans are the primary cause of modern extinctions, they also have a moral and practical responsibility to protect biodiversity. Allowing human-driven species loss to continue unchecked would be both irresponsible and dangerous.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
animal extinction – the disappearance of animal species
a natural process – an inherent phenomenon
should not attempt to prevent it – ought not to try to stop it
have a responsibility to protect endangered species – bear an obligation to safeguard threatened wildlife
This essay will discuss both views before explaining why I disagree with the contention – This essay will examine both perspectives before outlining why I oppose this argument
accepted – widely acknowledged
occurred throughout Earth’s history without human involvement – taken place across Earth’s past independent of human influence
disappeared due to natural catastrophes – became extinct as a result of natural disasters
asteroids – meteorites
extreme climate change – severe climatic shifts
Similarly – In the same way
ancient species failed to survive ice ages or volcanic eruptions – prehistoric organisms were unable to endure glacial periods or volcanic activity
could not adapt quickly enough – were unable to adjust rapidly
From this perspective – From this standpoint
can be seen as a normal part of evolution – may be regarded as a natural element of evolutionary processes
allowing stronger or more adaptable species to replace weaker ones – enabling more resilient species to supplant less adaptable ones
closely linked to human activities rather than natural forces – strongly associated with human actions instead of environmental factors
mainly because of poaching – primarily due to illegal hunting
losing their habitats due to deforestation for agriculture and housing – being deprived of natural habitats as forests are cleared for farming and urban development
large areas of rainforest are cleared – vast tracts of tropical forest are cut down
produce palm oil – manufacture palm oil
directly destroying ecosystems – causing immediate damage to ecological systems
took thousands of years to develop – required millennia to form
primary cause of modern extinctions – leading factor behind contemporary species loss
a moral and practical responsibility to protect biodiversity – an ethical and pragmatic duty to conserve biological diversity
Allowing human-driven species loss to continue unchecked – Permitting anthropogenic extinctions to persist without restriction
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Some people believe that animal _____________n is a natural _________s and that humans should ____________________________ it. Others argue that people have ________________________________________________ species. This __________________________________________________________________ contention that extinction should simply be a_________d.
On the one hand, extinction has occurred ________________________________________________ involvement. Dinosaurs, for example, disappeared ________________ catastrophes such as a_________s and extreme ___________change. S__________y, many ancient ___________________________________________________________ eruptions because they could _____________________ enough. From _________ perspective, extinction can ______________________________________ evolution, allowing _____________________________________________________________________ ones.
On the other hand, most animal extinctions today are closely ________________________________________________________ forces. Species such as elephants and rhinos are endangered mainly _____________ poaching, while animals like orangutans are losing ___________________________________________________________________ housing. For instance, large _____________________________ cleared each year to produce __________oil, directly ______________ecosystems that took _____________________ develop.
In my opinion, because humans are the primary _________________ extinctions, they also have a m____________________________________________________________ biodiversity. Allowing ________________________________________unchecked would be both i________________e and d____________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Question 4: Where can you see wild animals in your area?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:
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.
The given charts illustrate household and leisure activities among men and women in terms of average minutes each day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that women spent far more time on household chores, with the exception of time spent on repairs. In terms of leisure activities, both sexes were far more likely to watch television, video, or listen to the radio, and figures for reading and sport were relatively comparable.
Regarding activities in the household, women spent more than twice the amount of time cooking and washing and washing clothes and ironing (78 minutes to 30 minutes and 30 minutes to 10 minutes). The difference in time spent shopping was less extreme at 25 minutes for men and 37 minutes for women. In contrast, men spent double the time on repairs per day (19 minutes) to women (9 minutes).
For leisure time, the data for TV, video, and radio were surveyed at 137 minutes for males and 118 minutes for females. Other free time activities included reading (18 minutes for men and 19 minutes for women) and sport, 15 minutes and 11 minutes for men and women, respectively.
Analysis
1. The given charts illustrate household and leisure activities among men and women in terms of average minutes each day. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that women spent far more time on household chores, with the exception of time spent on repairs. 3. In terms of leisure activities, both sexes were far more likely to watch television, video, or listen to the radio, and figures for reading and sport were relatively comparable.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear overview.
Your overview should be two sentences.
1. Regarding activities in the household, women spent more than twice the amount of time cooking and washing and washing clothes and ironing (78 minutes to 30 minutes and 30 minutes to 10 minutes). 2. The difference in time spent shopping was less extreme at 25 minutes for men and 37 minutes for women. 3. In contrast, men spent double the time on repairs per day (19 minutes) to women (9 minutes).
Begin describing the data.
Make sure that you compare between sentences.
And include as much data as possible.
1. For leisure time, the data for TV, video, and radio were surveyed at 137 minutes for males and 118 minutes for females. 2. Other free time activities included reading (18 minutes for men and 19 minutes for women) and sport, 15 minutes and 11 minutes for men and women, respectively.
Switch to the other table.
Vary short and long sentences.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The given charts illustrate household and leisure activities among men and women in terms of average minutes each day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that women spent far more time on household chores, with the exception of time spent on repairs. In terms of leisure activities, both sexes were far more likely to watch television, video, or listen to the radio, and figures for reading and sport were relatively comparable.
Regarding activities in the household, women spent more than twice the amount of time cooking and washing and washing clothes and ironing (78 minutes to 30 minutes and 30 minutes to 10 minutes). The difference in time spent shopping was less extreme at 25 minutes for men and 37 minutes for women. In contrast, men spent double the time on repairs per day (19 minutes) to women (9 minutes).
For leisure time, the data for TV, video, and radio were surveyed at 137 minutes for males and 118 minutes for females. Other free time activities included reading (18 minutes for men and 19 minutes for women) and sport, 15 minutes and 11 minutes for men and women, respectively.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
The given charts illustrate – The provided graphs depict
average minutes each day – the mean number of minutes per day
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that – From an overall standpoint, it is immediately clear that
spent far more time on household chores – devoted significantly more time to domestic tasks
with the exception of – apart from
repairs – maintenance work
In terms of – With regard to
sexes – genders
far more likely to – considerably more inclined to
figures – statistics
relatively comparable – fairly similar
Regarding activities in – Concerning activities in
more than twice the amount of time – over twice as much time
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˌəʊvəˈrɔːl pəˈspɛktɪv, ɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærᵊnt ðæt
spɛnt fɑː mɔː taɪm ɒn ˈhaʊshəʊld ʧɔːz
wɪð ði ɪkˈsɛpʃᵊn ɒv
rɪˈpeəz
ɪn tɜːmz ɒv
ˈsɛksɪz
fɑː mɔː ˈlaɪkli tuː
ˈfɪɡəz
ˈrɛlətɪvli ˈkɒmpᵊrəbᵊl
rɪˈɡɑːdɪŋ ækˈtɪvətiz ɪn
mɔː ðæn twaɪs ði əˈmaʊnt ɒv taɪm
ðə ˈdɪfᵊrᵊns ɪn taɪm
lɛs ɪkˈstriːm æt
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst
ˈdʌbᵊl ðə taɪm
ˈsɜːveɪd æt
ɪnˈkluːdɪd
rɪˈspɛktɪvli
Vocabulary Practice
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
The ___________ illustrate household and leisure activities among men and women in terms of average ____________ day. Looking ______________________________________ that women spent _________________________________ chores, with _____________ of time spent on r______s. In _______of leisure activities, both s______s were far __________ to watch television, video, or listen to the radio, and f______s for reading and sport were relatively _____________e.
Regarding ____________in the household, women spent more _________________________ time cooking and washing and washing clothes and ironing (78 minutes to 30 minutes and 30 minutes to 10 minutes). The __________________ time spent shopping was less ____________at 25 minutes for men and 37 minutes for women. In _________t, men spent double _____ time on repairs per day (19 minutes) to women (9 minutes).
For leisure time, the data for TV, video, and radio were surveyed ___t 137 minutes for males and 118 minutes for females. Other free time activities i________d reading (18 minutes for men and 19 minutes for women) and sport, 15 minutes and 11 minutes for men and women, r__________y.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
In education and employment, some people work harder than others.
Why do some people work harder?
Is it always good to work hard?
Some people clearly put more effort into their studies and jobs than others. This essay will explain why this happens and argue that although hard work often engenders tangible benefits, it is not always a positive approach due to the effects on mental health.
One key reason people work harder is pressure from their background or circumstances. For example, a student from a low-income family may study long hours to achieve high exam scores because education is seen as the main path to financial security. In employment, migrant workers often take extra shifts or accept demanding workloads because they have limited job options and may need to support relatives. In contrast, individuals with strong financial support or secure positions may feel less urgency to push themselves. Situational factors therefore explain the vast majority of hard-working individuals.
However, working hard is not always beneficial. In the short term it can increase productivity, but over time it may lead to burnout and declining long-term performance. Teachers who regularly work late nights marking papers and preparing lessons may initially improve student results, but prolonged stress can cause health problems and reduced teaching quality. Similarly, employees who consistently work overtime may sacrifice personal relationships and creativity, which are also essential for long-term success. Over time the impact on mental health exacts a toll and makes working hard a negative overall when taken to extremes.
In conclusion, people work harder due to necessity, personality, and external rewards. While dedication can lead to achievement, excessive hard work can be harmful, meaning a balanced approach is ultimately more effective.
Analysis
1. Some people clearly put more effort into their studies and jobs than others. 2. This essay will explain why this happens and argue that although hard work often engenders tangible benefits, it is not always a positive approach due to the effects on mental health.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. One key reason people work harder is pressure from their background or circumstances. 2. For example, a student from a low-income family may study long hours to achieve high exam scores because education is seen as the main path to financial security. 3. In employment, migrant workers often take extra shifts or accept demanding workloads because they have limited job options and may need to support relatives. 4. In contrast, individuals with strong financial support or secure positions may feel less urgency to push themselves. 5. Situational factors therefore explain the vast majority of hard-working individuals.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Better to have more detail.
1. However, working hard is not always beneficial. 2. In the short term it can increase productivity, but over time it may lead to burnout and declining long-term performance. 3. Teachers who regularly work late nights marking papers and preparing lessons may initially improve student results, but prolonged stress can cause health problems and reduced teaching quality. 4. Similarly, employees who consistently work overtime may sacrifice personal relationships and creativity, which are also essential for long-term success. 5. Over time the impact on mental health exacts a toll and makes working hard a negative overall when taken to extremes.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
This essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
1. In conclusion, people work harder due to necessity, personality, and external rewards. 2. While dedication can lead to achievement, excessive hard work can be harmful, meaning a balanced approach is ultimately more effective.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Some people clearly put more effort into their studies and jobs than others. This essay will explain why this happens and argue that although hard work often engenders tangible benefits, it is not always a positive approach due to the effects on mental health.
One key reason people work harder is pressure from their background or circumstances. For example, a student from a low-income family may study long hours to achieve high exam scores because education is seen as the main path to financial security. In employment, migrant workers often take extra shifts or accept demanding workloads because they have limited job options and may need to support relatives. In contrast, individuals with strong financial support or secure positions may feel less urgency to push themselves. Situational factors therefore explain the vast majority of hard-working individuals.
However, working hard is not always beneficial. In the short term it can increase productivity, but over time it may lead to burnout and declining long-term performance. Teachers who regularly work late nights marking papers and preparing lessons may initially improve student results, but prolonged stress can cause health problems and reduced teaching quality. Similarly, employees who consistently work overtime may sacrifice personal relationships and creativity, which are also essential for long-term success. Over time the impact on mental health exacts a toll and makes working hard a negative overall when taken to extremes.
In conclusion, people work harder due to necessity, personality, and external rewards. While dedication can lead to achievement, excessive hard work can be harmful, meaning a balanced approach is ultimately more effective.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
clearly put more effort into → demonstrate greater effort
This essay will explain why → This essay will outline the reasons why
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Some people clearly ______________ into their studies and jobs than others. This _____________ why this happens and argue that although hard work often engenders ________benefits, it is not always a ________________________________health.
One ________reason people work harder is pressure __________________________ circumstances. For example, a student from a _________________ family may study _____________________________________ scores because education _________________________________ security. In e____________t, migrant w________s often take _______shifts or accept ____________workloads because they have limited___________________________________ relatives. In c_________t, individuals with strong ________________support or secure p________s may feel less _____________________ themselves. Situational _____________________________________________________ of hard-working individuals.
However, working hard is not always b___________l. In ___________ term it can increase p__________y, but over ________________________________________________ performance. Teachers who regularly____________________________________________ lessons may initially __________________ results, but prolonged s_______s can cause _____________________________________________ quality. S________y, employees who consistently _________overtime may sacrifice ___________________________creativity, which are also essential _________________________ success. Over __________________________________________ toll and makes working hard a negative overall when ____________ extremes.
In conclusion, people work harder due to n__________y, p__________y, and external r_________s. While d___________n can lead to a_____________t, excessive _________________ harmful, meaning ___________________________________ effective.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Is there some other kind of work you would rather do?
Lower Level Version
Some people work harder in school and at work than others. This essay will explain the reasons for this and argue that while hard work often brings clear benefits, it is not always good because it can affect mental health.
One main reason people work hard is their background or life situation. For example, a student from a poor family may study for many hours in order to get high exam scores, as education is often seen as the best way to get a stable job in the future. At work, migrant workers often do extra shifts or take difficult jobs because they have few choices and may need to send money to family members. By contrast, people who have financial support or stable jobs may feel less pressure to work very hard. This shows that personal circumstances strongly influence how hard people work.
However, working hard is not always a good thing. In the short term, it can help people be more productive, but in the long run it can cause tiredness and stress. For example, teachers who work late every night to mark papers and prepare lessons may see quick improvements in students’ results, but too much stress can harm their health and reduce the quality of their teaching. In the same way, workers who always do overtime may damage their personal relationships and lose creativity, which are important for long-term success.
In conclusion, people work hard because of necessity, personality, and rewards. Although hard work can lead to success, too much of it can be harmful, so a balanced approach is better.
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:
Some countries have introduced laws to limit the working hours that an employer can ask from an employee.
Since university education is seen as a basic right, some people believe the government should make it free for all, regardless of each students’s economic status.
Do you agree or disagree with this belief?
Some people argue that university education should be completely free because it is a basic right, regardless of a student’s financial background. I disagree with this viewpoint. While higher education should be accessible, making it entirely free for everyone would create financial strain and unfair resource allocation.
One major issue is the enormous cost for governments. Universities require funding for laboratories, libraries, lecturer salaries, and research facilities. For example, public universities in countries such as the United States or Australia spend tens of thousands of dollars per student each year. If tuition were removed entirely, governments would either need to increase taxes or divert funds from essential services like healthcare and public transport. This could result in poorer overall outcomes for society, particularly for low-income citizens who rely heavily on these support services.
Another problem is that free university education for all often benefits wealthy families the most. Students from affluent backgrounds can already afford tuition and living expenses, yet they would receive the same subsidy as those from disadvantaged households. In contrast, targeted financial aid systems, such as means-tested scholarships or income-contingent loans used in countries like the UK, direct resources toward students who genuinely need support, while still encouraging personal responsibility.
In conclusion, although university education plays a vital role in social development, making it completely free for all students is neither practical nor fair. A more effective approach would be to provide strong financial assistance to low-income students while requiring those who can afford it to contribute to the cost of their education.
Analysis
1. Some people argue that university education should be completely free because it is a basic right, regardless of a student’s financial background. 2. I disagree with this viewpoint. 3. While higher education should be accessible, making it entirely free for everyone would create financial strain and unfair resource allocation.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
Normally I write 2 sentence introductions but 3 is ok as well.
1. One major issue is the enormous cost for governments. 2. Universities require funding for laboratories, libraries, lecturer salaries, and research facilities. 3. For example, public universities in countries such as the United States or Australia spend tens of thousands of dollars per student each year. 4. If tuition were removed entirely, governments would either need to increase taxes or divert funds from essential services like healthcare and public transport. 5. This could result in poorer overall outcomes for society, particularly for low-income citizens who rely heavily on these support services.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Better to have more detail.
1. Another problem is that free university education for all often benefits wealthy families the most. 2. Students from affluent backgrounds can already afford tuition and living expenses, yet they would receive the same subsidy as those from disadvantaged households. 3. In contrast, targeted financial aid systems, such as means-tested scholarships or income-contingent loans used in countries like the UK, direct resources toward students who genuinely need support, while still encouraging personal responsibility.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
1. In conclusion, although university education plays a vital role in social development, making it completely free for all students is neither practical nor fair. 2. A more effective approach would be to provide strong financial assistance to low-income students while requiring those who can afford it to contribute to the cost of their education.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Some people argue that university education should be completely free because it is a basic right, regardless of a student’s financial background. I disagree with this viewpoint. While higher education should be accessible, making it entirely free for everyone would create financial strain and unfair resource allocation.
One major issue is the enormous cost for governments. Universities require funding for laboratories, libraries, lecturer salaries, and research facilities. For example, public universities in countries such as the United States or Australia spend tens of thousands of dollars per student each year. If tuition were removed entirely, governments would either need to increase taxes or divert funds from essential services like healthcare and public transport. This could result in poorer overall outcomes for society, particularly for low-income citizens who rely heavily on these support services.
Another problem is that free university education for all often benefits wealthy families the most. Students from affluent backgrounds can already afford tuition and living expenses, yet they would receive the same subsidy as those from disadvantaged households. In contrast, targeted financial aid systems, such as means-tested scholarships or income-contingent loans used in countries like the UK, direct resources toward students who genuinely need support, while still encouraging personal responsibility.
In conclusion, although university education plays a vital role in social development, making it completely free for all students is neither practical nor fair. A more effective approach would be to provide strong financial assistance to low-income students while requiring those who can afford it to contribute to the cost of their education.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
completely free → provided at no cost
a basic right → a fundamental entitlement
regardless of → irrespective of
financial background → economic circumstances
I disagree with this viewpoint → I do not support this argument
While higher education should be accessible → Although university education ought to be available
create financial strain → place pressure on public finances
unfair resource allocation → inequitable distribution of funds
One major issue is → A key concern is
the enormous cost for → the substantial expense associated with
require funding for → depend on financial support for
lecturer salaries → academic staff wages
research facilities → research infrastructure
public universities → state-funded institutions
removed entirely → eliminated completely
increase taxes → raise tax rates
divert funds from essential services like healthcare and public transport → redirect money away from critical sectors such as medical care and transport systems
This could result in poorer overall outcomes for society → This may lead to negative consequences for society as a whole
particularly for low-income citizens → especially among disadvantaged populations
rely heavily on these support services → depend greatly on such public provisions
benefits wealthy families the most → primarily advantages high-income households
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Some people argue that university education should be completely_____e because it is a ______right, regardless ___f a student’s financial_________d. I _____________________ viewpoint. While _______________ accessible, making it entirely free for everyone would create _______ strain and unfair ________allocation.
One ______________________ for governments. Universities require _______for laboratories, libraries, lecturer ________s, and research___________s. For example, public __________s in countries such as the United States or Australia spend tens of thousands of dollars per student each year. If tuition were removed _________y, governments would either need to increase _______s or divert ___________________________________________________________________ transport. This _____________________________________________ society, particularly _____________ citizens who rely ________________________ services.
Another problem is that free university education for all often benefits _________________ most. Students from affluent ___________s can already afford _______________ expenses, yet they would receive _____________________________________ households. In ___________, targeted ________________systems, such as means-tested ________________________ loans used in countries like the UK, direct __________ toward students who genuinely _________ support, while still encouraging ____________ responsibility.
In conclusion, although university education plays________________ development, making it completely free for all students is neither ______________ fair. A ________________________________ be to provide __________________________________ students while r__________g those who can a________d it to contribute _____________________ education.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Question 2: Did you have a favourite teacher at school?
Question 3: Would you say that you were a good student at school?
Question 4: Have you ever had a teacher that you didn’t like?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:
The best way to reduce poverty in developing countries is by giving up to six years of free education, so that they can at least read, write and use numbers.
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