This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of demand for oil and gas and whether or not we should exploit remote areas of the Earth.
It’s a good one to practice with because topics related to the environment, economics, and natural resources are common on IELTS.
Attention: if you are enjoying my free essays, please consider supporting me and sharing with your friends about my Patreon here (and getting access to additional, exclusive materials and Ebooks!).
Dave
IELTS Essay: Oil and Gas
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?
Many today believe that growing demand for fossil fuels justifies the continued exploitation of remote natural landscapes. In my opinion, the advantages of this are enough to warrant its expansion.
The disadvantages all relate to environmental conservation. Firstly, there have been cases of disastrous oil spills spoiling untouched natural preserves. This occurred more than a decage ago in an isolated part of Alaska and resulted in the deaths of thousands of rare species and long-lasting damage to the ecosystem. Secondly, fossil fuel exploitation in general should not be encouraged at a time when the Earth is facing a potentially cataclysmic reckoning with the effects of climate change. The last untouched areas of the planet should be left in peace and not greedily consumed to feed a problem that is growing more dangerous daily.
On the other hand, the advantages of drilling for oil and gas in less populated regions relate to economics and safety. Many countries, particularly developing ones, are reliant on oil and gas to prop up their economies. Losing the revenue from these industries would not only affect the companies themselves but they would pay fewer taxes and employ fewer people, who would then contribute less to the consumer economy. The second justification is safety. Companies will continue to drill for oil and gas but if they do it in residential areas there is the potential for human contamination, especially when it comes to more dangerous practices such as fracking. By limiting drilling to remote regions, the human population is safely protected from the risk of spills and increased air pollution.
In conclusion, the environmental risks do not outweigh the benefits to the economy and the citizenry that accrue from remote oil and gas exploitation. There should be protocols to protect the environment but these must be balanced against humanity’s precedence over nature.
Analysis
1. Many today believe that growing demand for fossil fuels justifies the continued exploitation of remote natural landscapes. 2. In my opinion, the advantages of this are enough to warrant its expansion.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Give a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The disadvantages all relate to environmental conservation. 2. Firstly, there have been cases of disastrous oil spills spoiling untouched natural preserves. 3. This occurred more than a decage ago in an isolated part of Alaska and resulted in the deaths of thousands of rare species and long-lasting damage to the ecosystem. 4. Secondly, fossil fuel exploitation in general should not be encouraged at a time when the Earth is facing a potentially cataclysmic reckoning with the effects of climate change. 5. The last untouched areas of the planet should be left in peace and not greedily consumed to feed a problem that is growing more dangerous daily.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
This question asks about advantages and disadvantages (plural) so begin writing about one disadvantage.
Develop it fully.
Switch to the second disadvantage.
Develop that one full as well.
1. On the other hand, the advantages of drilling for oil and gas in less populated regions relate to economics and safety. 2. Many countries, particularly developing ones, are reliant on oil and gas to prop up their economies. 3. Losing the revenue from these industries would not only affect the companies themselves but they would pay fewer taxes and employ fewer people, who would then contribute less to the consumer economy. 4. The second justification is safety. Companies will continue to drill for oil and gas but if they do it in residential areas there is the potential for human contamination, especially when it comes to more dangerous practices such as fracking. 5. By limiting drilling to remote regions, the human population is safely protected from the risk of spills and increased air pollution.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain the main idea or begin an example.
Develop it fully by stating the results.
Move on to your second advantage.
Develop it as fully as possible.
1. In conclusion, the environmental risks do not outweigh the benefits to the economy and the citizenry that accrue from remote oil and gas exploitation. 2. There should be protocols to protect the environment but these must be balanced against humanity’s precedence over nature.
Summarise your main ideas and repeat your opinion.
Add in a final thought or extra detail. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Many today believe that growing demand for fossil fuelsjustifies the continued exploitation of remote natural landscapes. In my opinion, the advantages of this are enough to warrant its expansion.
The disadvantages all relate to environmental conservation. Firstly, there have been cases of disastrous oil spills spoiling untouched natural preserves. This occurred more than a decage ago in an isolated part of Alaska and resulted in the deaths of thousands of rare species and long-lasting damage to the ecosystem. Secondly, fossil fuel exploitation in general should not be encouraged at a time when the Earth is facing a potentially cataclysmic reckoning with the effects of climate change. The last untouched areas of the planet should be left in peace and not greedily consumed to feed a problem that is growing more dangerous daily.
On the other hand, the advantages of drilling for oil and gas in less populated regions relate to economics and safety. Many countries, particularly developing ones, are reliant on oil and gas to prop up their economies. Losing the revenue from these industries would not only affect the companies themselves but they would pay fewer taxes and employ fewer people, who would then contribute less to the consumer economy. The second justification is safety. Companies will continue to drill for oil and gas but if they do it in residential areas there is the potential for human contamination, especially when it comes to more dangerous practices such as fracking. By limiting drilling to remote regions, the human population is safely protected from the risk of spills and increased air pollution.
In conclusion, the environmental risks do not outweigh the benefits to the economy and the citizenry that accrue from remote oil and gas exploitation. There should be protocols to protect the environment but these must be balanced against humanity’s precedence over nature.
Answers
growing demand more need for
fossil fuelsjustifies oil and gas are good reason to
continued exploitation more and more taking advantage of
remote natural landscapes far away from civilisation locations
warrant justify
expansion doing more of something
environmental conservation protecting the environment
cases examples
disastrous oil spills really bad environmental problems
Many today believe that g________________d for f____________________s the c_________________________n of r__________________________s. In my opinion, the advantages of this are enough to w_____________t its e_____________n.
The disadvantages all relate to e______________________n. Firstly, there have been c_____s of d______________________s s_________________________________s. This o__________d more than a decage ago in an i____________t of Alaska and r___________n the deaths of thousands of r_____________s and l______________________e to the e___________m. Secondly, fossil fuel exploitation in general should not be encouraged a______________n the Earth is facing a p________________________________g with the effects of c__________________e. The l_____________________s of the planet should be l______________________e and not g____________________d to f______d a problem that is g_________________________y.
O_______________________d, the advantages of drilling for oil and gas in l________________________________s relate to economics and safety. Many countries, particularly developing ones, are r___________t on oil and gas to p___________p their economies. L__________________e from these industries would not only affect the companies themselves but they would pay fewer taxes and employ fewer people, who would then c____________________________________y. The second j______________n is safety. Companies will continue to d_____l for oil and gas but if they do it in r_____________________s there is the p___________l for human c________________n, especially when it comes to more d_________________s such as f_____________g. By l___________g drilling to r______________s, the human population is s_______________d from the r____k of spills and increased air pollution.
In conclusion, the environmental risks do not o____________h the benefits to the economy and the c____________y that a_________e from remote oil and gas exploitation. There should be p____________s to protect the environment but these must be b________________t humanity’s p___________________r nature.
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of international cooperation from the real IELTS exam.
Attention: if you are enjoying my free essays, please consider supporting me and sharing with your friends about my Patreon here (and getting access to additional, exclusive materials and Ebooks!).
Dave
IELTS Essay: International Cooperation
Many today feel that most urgent problems can only be solved by international cooperation.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
There are those who claim that we can only solve pressing global issues today if countries work in concert. In my opinion, international cooperation holds some promise but it is difficult to align the priorities of self-interested nations.
Proponents argue that global issues require active participation from all countries. The best, most recent example of this is climate change. Threats to the environment are becoming more dire annually and this affects every nation on Earth equally. Therefore, the best solutions involve signing international accords. These agreements force nations to abide by certain regulations and meet benchmarks in order to form a cohesive, global policy that can mitigate and reverse the effects of climate change. If many governments are unwilling to commit, it is unlikely that individual nations will then have the desire to make drastic changes and very little might be done to curb an imminent global catastrophe.
However, the accords mentioned above have been notorious failures as each nation has its own individual priorities. Many developed nations that already have well-developed green industries and eco-friendly policies in place are happy to sign agreements that benefit both the Earth and their own financial interests. Other nations, chiefly in the Middle East where their economies are reliant on fossil fuel production and in developing countries where the economic consequences would be dire, are less enthusiastic. Many poorer countries can also justly argue that they contributed little to the current climate problems in the past so it is unfair to hinder their development now. This applies for issues outside climate change as nations will always be in conflict and international cooperation is therefore an impractical solution to important problems.
In conclusion, though the entire planet working in tandem would be an ideal approach, it will typically fail due to competing interests. It is more important that countries act on their own or with like-minded nations and not push for global reforms.
Analysis
1. There are those who claim that we can only solve pressing global issues today if countries work in concert. 2. In my opinion, international cooperation holds some promise but it is difficult to align the priorities of self-interested nations.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about writing introductions here.
1. Proponents argue that global issues require active participation from all countries. 2. The best, most recent example of this is climate change. 3. Threats to the environment are becoming more dire annually and this affects every nation on Earth equally. 4. Therefore, the best solutions involve signing international accords. 5. These agreements force nations to abide by certain regulations and meet benchmarks in order to form a cohesive, global policy that can mitigate and reverse the effects of climate change. 6. If many governments are unwilling to commit, it is unlikely that individual nations will then have the desire to make drastic changes and very little might be done to curb an imminent global catastrophe.
Write a clear topic sentence with your main idea at the end.
Begin a specific example.
Develop your example.
State the results to keep developing it.
Don’t switch to a new example – keep developing the same one.
State your final conclusions.
1. However, the accords mentioned above have been notorious failures as each nation has its own individual priorities. 2. Many developed nations that already have well-developed green industries and eco-friendly policies in place are happy to sign agreements that benefit both the Earth and their own financial interests. 3. Other nations, chiefly in the Middle East where their economies are reliant on fossil fuel production and in developing countries where the economic consequences would be dire, are less enthusiastic. 4. Many poorer countries can also justly argue that they contributed little to the current climate problems in the past so it is unfair to hinder their development now. 5. This applies for issues outside climate change as nations will always be in conflict and international cooperation is therefore an impractical solution to important problems.
Write another topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Give specific examples as I do here.
Develop those examples as full as possible.
Generalise to other situations if your example was very specific.
1. In conclusion, though the entire planet working in tandem would be an ideal approach, it will typically fail due to competing interests. 2. It is more important that countries act on their own or with like-minded nations and not push for global reforms.
Summarise your main ideas and repeat your opinion.
Include a final thought/detail.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
There are those who claim that we can only solve pressing global issues today if countries work in concert. In my opinion, international cooperation holds some promise but it is difficult to align the priorities of self-interested nations.
Proponents argue that global issues require active participation from all countries. The best, most recent example of this is climate change. Threats to the environment are becoming moredire annually and this affects every nation on Earth equally. Therefore, the best solutions involve signing international accords. These agreements force nations to abide by certain regulations and meet benchmarks in order to form a cohesive, global policy that can mitigate and reverse the effects of climate change. If many governments are unwilling to commit, it is unlikely that individual nations will then have the desire to make drastic changes and very little might be done to curb an imminent global catastrophe.
However, the accords mentioned above have been notorious failures as each nation has its own individual priorities. Many developed nations that already have well-developed green industries and eco-friendlypolicies in place are happy to sign agreements that benefit both the Earth and their own financial interests. Other nations, chiefly in the Middle East where their economies are reliant on fossil fuel production and in developing countries where the economic consequences would be dire, are less enthusiastic. Many poorer countries can also justly argue that they contributed little to the current climate problems in the past so it is unfair to hinder their development now. This applies for issues outside climate change as nations will always be in conflict and international cooperation is therefore an impractical solution to important problems.
In conclusion, though the entire planet working in tandem would be an ideal approach, it will typically fail due to competing interests. It is more important that countries act on their own or with like-minded nations and not push for global reforms.
Answers
claim argue
solve pressing global issues fix problems affecting the whole world
in concert working together
international cooperation globally working together
holds some promise might work
align get on the same page
priorities what they value
self-interested nations selfish countries
proponents advocates
active participation committing fully
climate change global warming
threats potential dangers
becoming moredire annually getting more serious every year
signing international accords agreeing to global pacts
agreements pacts, accords
abide by follow
regulations rules
meet benchmarks reach goals
cohesive unified
global policy plan for the whole Earth
mitigate lessen
reverse fix
commit choose to participate
drastic changes big reforms
curb slow down
imminent global catastrophe coming soon big problems
notorious failures famously haven’t worked
individual priorities their own interests
well-developed green industries solar, wind, electric, etc.
eco-friendlypolicies in place already have clean energy laws
financial interests invested in
reliant depend on
fossil fuel production oil and gas
economic consequences hurt their economy
dire very bad
less enthusiastic not excited for
justly argue rightly claim
contributed little don’t give much
hinder their development hold back their progress
applies is the case for
conflict not in agreement
impractical solution won’t work
entire completely
working in tandem working together
ideal approach perfect solution
competing interests in conflict
like-minded nations countries that think the same way
push for global reforms try to make changes the whole world follows
There are those who c_______m that we can only s___________________________s today if countries work i____________t. In my opinion, i_____________________n h_______________________e but it is difficult to a_______n the p_____________s of s______________________s.
P________________s argue that global issues require a_____________________n from all countries. The best, most recent example of this is c________________e. T__________s to the environment are b___________________________y and this affects every nation on Earth equally. Therefore, the best solutions involve s_______________________s. These a__________________s force nations to a____________y certain r_____________s and m_____________________s in order to form a c____________e, g_______________y that can m___________e and r__________e the effects of climate change. If many governments are unwilling to c____________t, it is unlikely that individual nations will then have the desire to make d_______________s and very little might be done to c_____b an i________________________e.
However, the accords mentioned above have been n__________________s as each nation has its own i_____________________s. Many developed nations that already have w_____________________________s and e_____________________________e are happy to sign agreements that benefit both the Earth and their own f____________________s. Other nations, chiefly in the Middle East where their economies are r___________t on f_______________________n and in developing countries where the e________________________s would be d____e, are l_____________________c. Many poorer countries can also j____________e that they c_________________e to the current climate problems in the past so it is unfair to h______________________t now. This a__________s for issues outside climate change as nations will always be in c___________t and international cooperation is therefore an i_____________________n to important problems.
In conclusion, though the e________e planet w________________m would be an i_______________h, it will typically fail due to c___________________s. It is more important that countries act on their own or with l____________________s and not p_____________________s.
Listening Practice
Learn below about how the United Nations work – a potential good example in your writing:
Reading Practice
Read more about failed talks related to climate change from The New York Times below:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of fast food becoming cheaper and more available and the advantages/disadvantages.
There is one element to this question that makes it a bit tricky.
It asks for advantageS and disadvantageS – plural.
That means you must have 2 per paragraph and still development them fully.
Read below to see how I solved this problem.
Dave
Check out my sample answer PDFs here on Patreon too.Learn about all my products here.
IELTS Essay: Fast Food
In many countries, fast food is becoming cheaper and more widely available.
Do the disadvantages of this outweigh the advantages?
Many today are of the belief that the ubiquity of fast food provides enough enjoyment and economic positives to outweigh its impact on public health. In my opinion, the disadvantages related to health make this a negative development.
Those supporting the fast food industry typically point to the pleasure consumers derive and the employment it provides. There is little to argue about in terms of enjoyment. Fast food is affordable and tastes good. That explains its popularity and makes it accessible for people from even the lowest socioeconomic backgrounds. Moreover, there are obvious economic benefits. Companies like McDonald’s, Burger King, Baskin Robbins, and Domino’s Pizza are some of the largest employers globally. Their economic contributions extend beyond providing poorly paid jobs as they are taxed and thereby strengthen the federal budgets of both developing and developed nations.
Nonetheless, fast food has a huge impact in the health sector. Most tangibly, this concerns to obesity. Studies have shown that obesity rates soar in countries where fast food has become entrenched in the local market. The best known example of this is in the United States, where obesity is reaching epidemic proportions. Related and often symptomatic drawbacks include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Foods high in fat, sugar, and overprocessed ingredients have been proven to exacerbate these conditions, with heart disease now the single greatest cause of death around the world. This cannot be blamed entirely on fast food but there are very few healthy options on most fast food menus and the majority of companies specialise in quintessentially unhealthy foods like deep fried chicken, cheeseburgers, pizzas, and tacos.
In conclusion, despite the boons for enjoyment and the economy, fast food is a negative taken as a whole given its impact on well-being. It is therefore important to regulate fast food companies to curb their influence.
Analysis
1. Many today are of the belief that the ubiquity of fast food provides enough enjoyment and economic positives to outweigh its impact on public health. 2. In my opinion, the disadvantages related to health make this a negative development.
Paraphrase the overall topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those supporting the fast food industry typically point to the pleasure consumers derive and the employment it provides. 2. There is little to argue about in terms of enjoyment. 3. Fast food is affordable and tastes good. 4. That explains its popularity and makes it accessible for people from even the lowest socioeconomic backgrounds. 5. Moreover, there are obvious economic benefits. 6. Companies like McDonald’s, Burger King, Baskin Robbins, and Domino’s Pizza are some of the largest employers globally. 7. Their economic contributions extend beyond providing poorly paid jobs as they are taxed and thereby strengthen the federal budgets of both developing and developed nations.
Write a clear topic sentence with your main idea at the end.
This question asks for advantages/disadvantages so make sure that you switch to a second main idea.
Develop the second main idea as fully as possible.
1. Nonetheless, fast food has a huge impact in the health sector. 2. Most tangibly, this concerns to obesity. 3. Studies have shown that obesity rates soar in countries where fast food has become entrenched in the local market. 4. The best known example of this is in the United States, where obesity is reaching epidemic proportions. 5. Related and often symptomatic drawbacks include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. 6. Foods high in fat, sugar, and overprocessed ingredients have been proven to exacerbate these conditions, with heart disease now the single greatest cause of death around the world. 7. This cannot be blamed entirely on fast food but there are very few healthy options on most fast food menus and the majority of companies specialise in quintessentially unhealthy foods like deep fried chicken, cheeseburgers, pizzas, and tacos.
Write another simple topic sentence with a new main idea.
Explain your main idea.
Develop your main idea – using studies/research are a good way to start.
Give a specific example.
Use specific details to develop your example.
Switch to a related or similar disadvantage.
This paragraph is longer because it is the idea I agree with.
1. In conclusion, despite the boons for enjoyment and the economy, fast food is a negative taken as a whole given its impact on well-being. 2. It is therefore important to regulate fast food companies to curb their influence.
Summarise your main ideas and repeat your opinion.
Add a final thought/detail. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Many today are of the belief that the ubiquity of fast food provides enough enjoyment and economic positives to outweigh its impact on public health. In my opinion, the disadvantages related to health make this a negative development.
Those supporting the fast food industry typically point to the pleasure consumers derive and the employment it provides. There is little to argue about in terms of enjoyment. Fast food is affordable and tastes good. That explains its popularity and makes it accessible for people from even the lowest socioeconomic backgrounds. Moreover, there are obvious economic benefits. Companies like McDonald’s, Burger King, Baskin Robbins, and Domino’s Pizza are some of the largest employers globally. Their economic contributions extend beyond providing poorly paid jobs as they are taxed and thereby strengthen the federal budgets of both developing and developed nations.
Nonetheless, fast food has a huge impact in the health sector. Most tangibly, this concerns to obesity. Studies have shown that obesity rates soar in countries where fast food has become entrenched in the local market. The best known example of this is in the United States, where obesity is reaching epidemic proportions. Related and often symptomatic drawbacks include cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and high blood pressure. Foods high in fat, sugar, and overprocessed ingredients have been proven to exacerbate these conditions, with heart disease now the single greatest cause of death around the world. This cannot be blamed entirely on fast food but there are very few healthy options on most fast food menus and the majority of companies specialise in quintessentially unhealthy foods like deep fried chicken, cheeseburgers, pizzas, and tacos.
In conclusion, despite the boons for enjoyment and the economy, fast food is a negative taken as a wholegiven its impact on well-being. It is therefore important to regulate fast food companies to curb their influence.
Answers
of the belief believe
ubiquity common
enjoyment like a lot
economic positives helps the economy
outweigh stronger than
public health wellness of most people
related to concern
supporting arguing for
typically point to usually cite
pleasure consumers derive joy people get from
employment jobs
provides create
little to argue about not much to disagree about
in terms of as it relates to
affordable cheap
explains a reason for
accessible can get
lowest socioeconomic backgrounds poor people
are some of the are among the
globally around the world
economic contributions extend beyond money they generate also includes
taxed pay money to the government
strengthen make stronger
federal budgets money the government has to spend
developing poorer countries
developed nations rich countries
health sector health
most tangibly most obviously and clearly
concerns relate to
obesity being very fat
studies have shown research indicates
obesity rates soar more people become fat
entrenched become a strong part of
local market economy
the best known example of this is clearest instance is
reaching epidemic proportions becoming an emergency
symptomatic drawbacks resultant disadvantages
cardiovascular disease heart disease
diabetes a condition related to eating too much sugary food
high blood pressure heart conditions
foods high in fat food with a lot of fat in them
overprocessed ingredients foods being manufactured repeatedly
exacerbate make worse
heart disease heart conditions
single greatest cause of death around the world #1 killer
blamed entirely 100% at fault for
healthy options healthy alternatives
specialise focus on
quintessentially unhealthy definitively unhealthy
boons advantages
taken as a wholegiven considered overall considering
Many today are o___________f that the u___________y of fast food provides enough e_____________t and e_______________s to o_________h its impact on p_______________h. In my opinion, the disadvantages r______________o health make this a negative development.
Those s_____________g the fast food industry t_______________o the p_________________________e and the e___________t it p__________s. There is l_____________________t i_______________f enjoyment. Fast food is a_____________e and tastes good. That e___________s its popularity and makes it a____________e for people from even the l___________________________s. Moreover, there are obvious economic benefits. Companies like McDonald’s, Burger King, Baskin Robbins, and Domino’s Pizza a____________________e largest employers g____________y. Their e_____________________________________d providing poorly paid jobs as they are t_________d and thereby s_____________n the f_______________s of both d_______________g and d_________________s.
Nonetheless, fast food has a huge impact in the h______________r. M_________________y, this c___________s to o___________y. S_______________n that o__________________r in countries where fast food has become e_____________d in the l_______________t. T_____________________________s in the United States, where obesity is r_____________________________s. Related and often s_______________________s include c____________________e, d_____________s, and h_________________e. F__________________t, sugar, and o__________________________s have been proven to e________________e these conditions, with h___________________e now the s_____________________________________d. This cannot be b_________________y on fast food but there are very few h_________________s on most fast food menus and the majority of companies s_____________e in q________________________y foods like deep fried chicken, cheeseburgers, pizzas, and tacos.
In conclusion, despite the b_________s for enjoyment and the economy, fast food is a negative t______________________n its impact on w__________g. It is therefore important to r___________e fast food companies to c______b their i_________________e.
Listening Practice
Learn more about fast food from around the world below:
Reading Practice
Read some interesting articles from Vice on fast food:
Be sure that you check out my exclusive IELTS Ebooks and materials on Patreon here (and recommend a friend if you can!).
Dave
Advertising
Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Other people think that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
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.
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.
Some think schools should rewards students who have the best academic results, while others think it’s more important to reward students who achieve other types of success (such as sports, music, and good behaviour).
Some people say that school children should be mainly taught about the literature (e.g fiction and poetry) of their own country because it is more important than that of other countries.
Most agree that we should be training children to recycle waste to preserve the Earth’s natural resources. However, some believe that it is parents who should teach their children to recycle waste while others feels schools are more responsible.
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 these views 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.
In many schools and universities today, women have a tendency to study the humanities (such as the arts and languages) while men more often major in science related subjects. Some believe this tendency should be changed.
Some believe that the best way to stay fit is to join a gym or health club while others think doing everyday activities such as walking and climbing stairs is enough.
Many think that in today’s world it is very difficult for people to maintain a healthy lifestyle. Others, however, feel that it is easy for people to be healthy and fit if they want to be.
The best way to prevent people from smoking is to impose high taxes on tobacco products. In this way, people will be less likely to develop a long-term addiction to smoking.
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.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Some people say that it is acceptable to test medicine intended for people on animals. Others, however, believe that it is not right to use animals in this research.
Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
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.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them.
In the future, people may have to live on other planets. Some think that it is therefore important to spend money researching other planets such as Mars.
Some people think that it is a waste of money for countries to host big sporting events like the world cup, and that the money would be better spent on other things. However, others think that hosting large sporting events has a clear, positive impact on a country.
In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money should be spent on improving existing public transport.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Some people think that governments should invest mainly in making public transportation faster while other think there are more important priorities (cost, the environment).
People today often use the internet to learn about the culture of other countries. This means that it is not that important to travel to those countries.
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.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay related to the topic of skills and vocational training or university education from the real IELTS exam.
It is a very common kind of question and these topics also come up a lot.
Be sure that you check out my exclusive IELTS Ebooks and materials on Patreon here (and recommend a friend if you can!).
Dave
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Skills and Vocational Training
Nations should spend more money on skills and vocational training for practical work, rather than on university education.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Exam
Many today feel that countries should prioritise vocational training over higher education due to changes in the labour market. In my opinion, though there are strong economic reasons to support this idea, university education holds greater value.
Those in favour of more practical skills training point out the financial benefits. Most university graduates are burdened with student debt and face uncertain job prospects. In contrast, training schools are cheap, fast, and ease students into steady employment immediately. The jobs they train for are also most likely recession-proof and durable, including positions as cooks, hotel managers, and skilled technicians. Someone who is firmly established in such a job in their early 20s does not have to deal with the pressures associated with university life and its incumbent debts. Instead, they can begin to set aside money for a house or start a family.
Nonetheless, lacking a university degree limits one’s options. The jobs available will pay well initially and be secure but offer narrow scope for advancement and virtually no opportunity to switch career paths. An individual with a university degree, on the other hand, might begin from a lower position but has a higher ceiling on future earnings. It is also possible for them to explore a variety of fields. Most good jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree even for simple internship vacancies. Lacking such a degree, means restricting oneself to manual labour or service industry jobs. The actual learning that takes place at university, particularly for those with multi-disciplinary majors or studying at liberal arts schools, also encourages students to consider a wide range of possible career options.
In conclusion, increasing funding for vocational training is an attractive yet short-sighted approach that curbs possibilities. Governments ought to continue to support higher education even in dark economic times in order to reap future rewards.
Analysis
1. Many today feel that countries should prioritise vocational training over higher education due to changes in the labour market. 2. In my opinion, though there are strong economic reasons to support this idea, university education holds greater value.
Paraphrase the overall topic for the essay.
Give a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those in favour of more practical skills training point out the financial benefits. 2. Most university graduates are burdened with student debt and face uncertain job prospects. 3. In contrast, training schools are cheap, fast, and ease students into steady employment immediately. 4. The jobs they train for are also most likely recession-proof and durable, including positions as cooks, hotel managers, and skilled technicians. 5. Someone who is firmly established in such a job in their early 20s does not have to deal with the pressures associated with university life and its incumbent debts. 6. Instead, they can begin to set aside money for a house or start a family.
Write a clear topic sentence with a main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Use specific details to develop your main idea.
Include specific examples.
State the full results.
Continue detailing the results.
1. Nonetheless, lacking a university degree limits one’s options. 2. The jobs available will pay well initially and be secure but offer narrow scope for advancement and virtually no opportunity to switch career paths. 3. An individual with a university degree, on the other hand, might begin from a lower position but has a higher ceiling on future earnings. 4. It is also possible for them to explore a variety of fields. 5. Most good jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree even for simple internship vacancies. 6. Lacking such a degree, means restricting oneself to manual labour or service industry jobs. 7. The actual learning that takes place at university, particularly for those with multi-disciplinary majors or studying at liberal arts schools, also encourages students to consider a wide range of possible career options.
Write another topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea again.
Use a hypothetical example if you don’t know a real one.
Vary your long and short sentences.
Keep developing the same main idea.
Using counter-points to make your argument stronger.
State the full results and add in any more development for the same main idea.
1. In conclusion, increasing funding for vocational training is an attractive yet short-sighted approach that curbs possibilities. 2. Governments ought to continue to support higher education even in dark economic times in order to reap future rewards.
Summarise your main ideas and repeat your opinion.
Add a final thought/detail. Learn more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Many today feel that countries should prioritise vocational training over higher education due to changes in the labour market. In my opinion, though there are strong economic reasons to support this idea, university education holds greater value.
Those in favour of more practical skills training point out the financial benefits. Most university graduates are burdened with student debt and face uncertain job prospects. In contrast, training schools are cheap, fast, and ease students into steady employment immediately. The jobs they train for are also most likely recession-proof and durable, including positions as cooks, hotel managers, and skilled technicians. Someone who is firmly established in such a job in their early 20s does not have to deal with the pressures associated with university life and its incumbent debts. Instead, they can begin to set aside money for a house or start a family.
Nonetheless, lacking a university degree limits one’s options. The jobs available will pay well initially and be secure but offer narrow scope for advancement and virtually no opportunity to switch career paths. An individual with a university degree, on the other hand, might begin from a lower position but has a higher ceiling on future earnings. It is also possible for them to explore a variety of fields. Most good jobs require at least a bachelor’s degree even for simple internship vacancies. Lacking such a degree, means restricting oneself to manual labour or service industry jobs. The actual learning that takes place at university, particularly for those with multi-disciplinary majors or studying at liberal arts schools, also encourages students to consider a wide range of possible career options.
In conclusion, increasing funding for vocational training is an attractive yet short-sighted approach that curbs possibilities. Governments ought to continue to support higher education even in dark economic times in order to reap future rewards.
Answers
prioritise vocational training focus more on skilled training
higher education university
labour market jobs and employment
strong economic reasons good financial justifications
holds greater value has more importance
practical skills training vocational training for jobs such as cook, electrician, etc.
financial benefits monetary advantages
burdened with student debt have lots of money to pay back
face uncertain job prospects may struggle to get work
in contrast however
ease without effort
steady employment good job
recession-proof can survive difficult economic times
durable secure
skilled technicians electricians, plumbers, IT people
firmly established secure
deal with handle
pressures associated with stress related to
incumbent debts money owed that comes along with uni
set aside money save money
lacking not having
limits one’s options not as many choices
pay well initially make good salary at the beginning
secure safe
narrow scope not diverse, limited
virtually essentially
switch career paths find a new kind of job
university degree bachelor’s degree, masters, etc.
on the other hand however
lower position not as high up
higher ceiling on future earnings cap on what you can make in the future
explore look through
variety of fields lots of different jobs, areas
require at least must have at minimum
internship vacancies open unpaid jobs
restricting limiting
manual labour jobs that require hard work
service industry jobs hotels, restaurants, etc.
multi-disciplinary majors studying more than one subject
liberal arts schools schools where you focus on many subjects
encourages inspires
consider think about
wide range of possible career options many choices for a job
attractive appealing
short-sighted approach not a good long-term strategy
Many today feel that countries should p__________________________g over h______________________n due to changes in the l__________________t. In my opinion, though there are s_________________________s to support this idea, university education h____________________e.
Those in favour of more p________________________g point out the f_________________________s. Most university graduates are b__________________________t and f__________________________s. I_______________t, training schools are cheap, fast, and e_____e students into s________________________t immediately. The jobs they train for are also most likely r__________________f and d____________e, including positions as cooks, hotel managers, and s____________________s. Someone who is f_______________________d in such a job in their early 20s does not have to d______________h the p______________________h university life and its i_______________________s. Instead, they can begin to s__________________y for a house or start a family.
Nonetheless, l___________g a university degree l______________________s. The jobs available will p____________________y and be s__________e but offer n__________________e for advancement and v____________y no opportunity to s_____________________s. An individual with a u___________________e, o_______________________d, might begin from a l_______________n but has a h_____________________________s. It is also possible for them to e___________e a v____________________s. Most good jobs r_________________t a bachelor’s degree even for simple i_____________________s. Lacking such a degree, means r______________g oneself to m______________r or s_________________________s. The actual learning that takes place at university, particularly for those with m_________________________s or studying at l______________________s, also e______________s students to c____________r a w_____________________________________s.
In conclusion, increasing funding for vocational training is an a______________e yet s_________________________h that c________________________s. Governments ought to continue to support higher education even in d______________________s in order to r_______________________s.
Listening Practice
Listen about training in the United States and Germany below from The New York Times YouTube channel:
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