IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training  Sample Answer Essay: Part-Time Jobs (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Part-Time Jobs (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of part-time or hourly paid jobs from the real exam.

In the U.S.A., people typically say part-time work and in the U.K., hourly paid.

Employment is a really common topic on IELTS so reading this answer will help prepare you for similar questions on the real exam.

Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!

Dave

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Part-Time Jobs (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

In many countries, teenagers are encouraged to find part-time jobs. Some think this is a good development while others disagree.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test

Some believe that teenagers ought to take part in hourly paid work while others feel this is not a good idea. In my opinion, though this can be an added burden for teenagers, it offers a host of benefits related to life experience.

Opponents of part-time work for teenagers seize on the mental repercussions of stress. Teenagers already deal with so many life problems ranging from the chemical changes inherent in puberty to social stress to academic pressure. There are countries such as South Korea and Japan where the academic workload rarely allows for recreation time, let alone paid work. Adding in a job and its encumbent concerns can only worsen a teenager’s mental health and, in the most extreme cases, lead to depression and nervous breakdowns. Even students not affected as deeply are sure to be less happy due to stress.

Regardless, working is a maturing experience. Work continues and hastens the lifelong process of negotiating one’s own priorities against the expectations of others. Most high schoolers start with a low-paying part-time position and that may educate them about the importance of having a good education. They are also likely to begin developing the qualities that will serve them well in a variety of future workplaces including teamwork skills, organisation, and perseverance. The experience will also give them a window into an industry and help them make more informed choices for their future career.

In conclusion, though work can take a toll on mental well-being it is a positive, overall maturing experience. Teenagers should try a variety of jobs in order to have a clear overview of possible working environments.

Analysis

1. Some believe that teenagers ought to take part in hourly paid work while others feel this is not a good idea. 2. In my opinion, though this can be an added burden for teenagers, it offers a host of benefits related to life experience.

  1. Paraphrase the overall topic for the whole essay.
  2. Write your opinion – be clear!

1. Opponents of part-time work for teenagers seize on the mental repercussions of stress. 2. Teenagers already deal with so many life problems ranging from the chemical changes inherent in puberty to social stress to academic pressure. 3. There are countries such as South Korea and Japan where the academic workload rarely allows for recreation time, let alone paid work. 4. Adding in a job and its encumbent concerns can only worsen a teenager’s mental health and, in the most extreme cases, lead to depression and nervous breakdowns. 5. Even students not affected as deeply are sure to be less happy due to stress.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a single, clear main idea at the end.
  2. Begin to develop your main idea with specific ideas.
  3. Be as specific as possible – use real countries!
  4. Develop your specific examples.
  5. State the final result to conclude the paragraph.

1. Regardless, working is a maturing experience. 2. Work continues and hastens the lifelong process of negotiating one’s own priorities against the expectations of others. 3. Most high schoolers start with a low-paying part-time position and that may educate them about the importance of having a good education. 4. They are also likely to begin developing the qualities that will serve them well in a variety of future workplaces including teamwork skills, organisation, and perseverance. 5. The experience will also give them a window into an industry and help them make more informed choices for their future career.

  1. Write another topic sentence with a main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. My example here is hypothetical.
  4. Develop the example.
  5. Finish developing your main idea.

1. In conclusion, though work can take a toll on mental well-being it is a positive, overall maturing experience. 2. Teenagers should try a variety of jobs in order to have a clear overview of possible working environments.

  1. Repeat your opinion.
  2. Add in a final thought at the end.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean?

Some believe that teenagers ought to take part in hourly paid work while others feel this is not a good idea. In my opinion, though this can be an added burden for teenagers, it offers a host of benefits related to life experience.

Opponents of part-time work for teenagers seize on the mental repercussions of stress. Teenagers already deal with so many life problems ranging from the chemical changes inherent in puberty to social stress to academic pressure. There are countries such as South Korea and Japan where the academic workload rarely allows for recreation time, let alone paid work. Adding in a job and its encumbent concerns can only worsen a teenager’s mental health and, in the most extreme cases, lead to depression and nervous breakdowns. Even students not affected as deeply are sure to be less happy due to stress.

Regardless, working is a maturing experience. Work continues and hastens the lifelong process of negotiating one’s own priorities against the expectations of others. Most high schoolers start with a low-paying part-time position and that may educate them about the importance of having a good education. They are also likely to begin developing the qualities that will serve them well in a variety of future workplaces including teamwork skills, organisation, and perseverance. The experience will also give them a window into an industry and help them make more informed choices for their future career.

In conclusion, though work can take a toll on mental well-being it is a positive, overall maturing experience. Teenagers should try a variety of jobs in order to have a clear overview of possible working environments.

Answers

take part in do

added burden more pressure

host of benefits many advantages

part-time work hourly paid jobs

seize on point out

mental repercussions psychological effects

deal with handle

ranging from including

chemical changes inherent in puberty body changing as you become a teenager

social stress social anxiety

academic pressure stress to get good grades

academic workload amount of schoolwork you have

recreation time free time

let alone paid work not mentioning a real job

adding in also including

encumbent concerns related worries

worsen become bad

in the most extreme cases rare situations

nervous breakdowns losing your mind for a bit

deeply not superficially

regardless nonetheless

maturing experience makes you more of an adult

hastens speeds up

lifelong process over the course of your life

negotiating one’s own priorities bargaining your interests

expectations of others the interests of other people

low-paying part-time position menial work

importance of having a good education why you should get a degree

serve them well helps them later

future workplaces where you might work later

teamwork skills working together in a group

organisation keeping things in order

perseverance trying hard

give them a window into show them

industry economic sector

informed choices good decisions

future career what you will do for work later in life

take a toll on mental well-being psychological problems

clear overview good idea of

possible working environments potential jobs

Pronunciation

teɪk pɑːt ɪn 
ˈædɪd ˈbɜːdn 
həʊst ɒv ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
pɑːt-taɪm wɜːk 
siːz ɒn 
ˈmɛntl ˌriːpɜːˈkʌʃənz 
diːl wɪð 
ˈreɪnʤɪŋ frɒm 
ˈkɛmɪkəl ˈʧeɪnʤɪz ɪnˈhɪərənt ɪn ˈpjuːbəti 
ˈsəʊʃəl strɛs 
ˌækəˈdɛmɪk ˈprɛʃə
ˌækəˈdɛmɪk ˈwɜːkˌləʊd 
ˌriːkrɪˈeɪʃən taɪm
lɛt əˈləʊn peɪd wɜːk
ˈædɪŋ ɪn 
ˈɛnkʌmbɛnt kənˈsɜːnz 
ˈwɜːsn 
ɪn ðə məʊst ɪksˈtriːm ˈkeɪsɪz
ˈnɜːvəs ˈbreɪkˌdaʊnz
ˈdiːpli 
rɪˈgɑːdlɪs
məˈtjʊərɪŋ ɪksˈpɪərɪəns
ˈheɪsnz 
ˈlaɪflɒŋ ˈprəʊsɛs 
nɪˈgəʊʃɪeɪtɪŋ wʌnz əʊn praɪˈɒrɪtiz 
ˌɛkspɛkˈteɪʃənz ɒv ˈʌðəz
ləʊ-ˈpeɪɪŋ pɑːt-taɪm pəˈzɪʃən 
ɪmˈpɔːtəns ɒv ˈhævɪŋ ə gʊd ˌɛdju(ː)ˈkeɪʃən
sɜːv ðɛm wɛl 
ˈfjuːʧə ˈwɜːkˌpleɪsɪz 
ˈtiːmwɜːk skɪlz
ˌɔːgənaɪˈzeɪʃən
ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns
gɪv ðɛm ə ˈwɪndəʊ ˈɪntuː 
ˈɪndəstri 
ɪnˈfɔːmd ˈʧɔɪsɪz 
ˈfjuːʧə kəˈrɪə
teɪk ə təʊl ɒn ˈmɛntl wɛl-ˈbiːɪŋ 
klɪər ˈəʊvəvjuː 
ˈpɒsəbl ˈwɜːkɪŋ ɪnˈvaɪərənmənts

Listen and repeat:

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

Some believe that teenagers ought to t______________n hourly paid work while others feel this is not a good idea. In my opinion, though this can be an a________________n for teenagers, it offers a h_________________s related to life experience.

Opponents of p_________________k for teenagers s_________n the m____________________s of stress. Teenagers already d__________h so many life problems r____________m the c___________________________________y to s_______________s to a_________________________e. There are countries such as South Korea and Japan where the a__________________d rarely allows for r___________________e, l______________________k. A________________n a job and its e____________________s can only w_____________n a teenager’s mental health and, i______________________________s, lead to depression and n__________________________s. Even students not affected as d____________y are sure to be less happy due to stress.

R_____________s, working is a m_________________e. Work continues and h_____________s the l_______________s of n____________________________s against the e________________________s. Most high schoolers start with a l_____________________________n and that may educate them about the i_________________________________________n. They are also likely to begin developing the qualities that will s______________l in a variety of f_____________________________s including t_____________________s, o__________________n, and p_________________e. The experience will also g_________________________o an i_____________y and help them make more i_____________________s for their f__________________r.

In conclusion, though work can t___________________________________g it is a positive, overall maturing experience. Teenagers should try a variety of jobs in order to have a c_______________w of p_________________________________s.

Listen and check:

Listening Practice

Watch a Ted Talk on this subject below:

Reading Practice

Read from The New York Times on this subject:

https://www.southernphone.com.au/Blog/2018/Apr/part-time-jobs-for-teenagers-complete-guide

Speaking Practice

Answer the questions from the real speaking booklet below:

Work

Why did you choose your job?

How much work do you do in a week?

Do you have to work on weekends as well?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related question below then read my sample answer:

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.

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Housing Shortages (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Housing Shortages (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of housing shortages from the real exam.

It’s kind of a tricky question and not a very common topic.

A very similar question came up on the test a few years ago, so it is good to get some practice with this unusual topic!

Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!

Dave

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Housing Shortages (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

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

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Real IELTS Exam/Test

Many people today feel that limited housing in urban areas can only be seriously addressed by governmental action. In my opinion, private investiture in this area will always be low so governments bear the burden of responsibility.

Only limited support for housing problems will come from the private sector. Large real estate and construction firms are mainly motivated to generate the greatest profits and will therefore largely cater projects towards a wealthy clientele. This means building large apartments and homes that likely replace smaller homes, exacerbating any existing housing crisis. In New York City, for example, ambitious developers knocked down government housing projects and built luxury apartments and brownstone homes. These efforts push poor residents out of the city and further away from their work and engender a variety of social problems.

The only realistic solution for housing shortages in major urban areas in governmental intervention. Governments can either build themselves or accept bids from construction companies. There are inspirational examples of public works projects in cities all around the world. The typical process is that the government will delineate an undeveloped or poorly planned area for new homes and accept bids from private companies. Since these areas are unavailable for unregulated commercial exploitation, the government holds power over the private companies. Once these projects are completed, they can house thousands of residents affordably, which allows occupants to find quality jobs in the city and eventually move out of these housing developments.

In conclusion, the government is the major catalyst in all housing solutions in cities. Governments ought to prioritise these efforts before cities become too gentrified and this hinders upwards social mobility.

Analysis

1. Many people today feel that limited housing in urban areas can only be seriously addressed by governmental action. 2. In my opinion, private investiture in this area will always be low so governments bear the burden of responsibility.

  1. Paraphrase the overall topic for the essay.
  2. Write a clear opinion – choose a side!

1. Only limited support for housing problems will come from the private sector. 2. Large real estate and construction firms are mainly motivated to generate the greatest profits and will therefore largely cater projects towards a wealthy clientele. 3. This means building large apartments and homes that likely replace smaller homes, exacerbating any existing housing crisis. 4. In New York City, for example, ambitious developers knocked down government housing projects and built luxury apartments and brownstone homes. 5. These efforts push poor residents out of the city and further away from their work and engender a variety of social problems.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end of it.
  2. Begin developing or explaining your main idea.
  3. Continue to develop it with specific details.
  4. Here I give an example of a real city – be as specific as possible.
  5. Conclude with the result of your example.

1. The only realistic solution for housing shortages in major urban areas in governmental intervention. 2. Governments can either build themselves or accept bids from construction companies. 3. There are inspirational examples of public works projects in cities all around the world. 4. The typical process is that the government will delineate an undeveloped or poorly planned area for new homes and accept bids from private companies. 5. Since these areas are unavailable for unregulated commercial exploitation, the government holds power over the private companies. 6. Once these projects are completed, they can house thousands of residents affordably, which allows occupants to find quality jobs in the city and eventually move out of these housing developments.

  1. Another topic sentence with a main idea at the end.
  2. Start developing your main idea.
  3. You don’t always need a specific example if it is a common occurrence.
  4. Develop the process in detail.
  5. The more nuanced your argument, the higher your score.
  6. State the result again to conclude the paragraph.

1. In conclusion, the government is the major catalyst in all housing solutions in cities. 2. Governments ought to prioritise these efforts before cities become too gentrified and this hinders upwards social mobility.

  1. Repeat your overall opinion.
  2. Add in a final detail or thought for full marks from the IELTS examiner.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean?

Many people today feel that limited housing in urban areas can only be seriously addressed by governmental action. In my opinion, private investiture in this area will always be low so governments bear the burden of responsibility.

Only limited support for housing problems will come from the private sector. Large real estate and construction firms are mainly motivated to generate the greatest profits and will therefore largely cater projects towards a wealthy clientele. This means building large apartments and homes that likely replace smaller homes, exacerbating any existing housing crisis. In New York City, for exampe, ambitious developers knocked down government housing projects and built luxury apartments and brownstone homes. These efforts pushe poor residents out of the city and further away from their work and engender a variety of social problems.

The only realistic solution for housing shortages in major urban areas in governmental intervention. Governments can either build themselves or accept bids from construction companies. There are inspirational examples of public works projects in cities all around the world. The typical process is that the government will delineate an undeveloped or poorly planned area for new homes and accept bids from private companies. Since these areas are unavailable for unregulated commercial exploitation, the government holds power over the private companies. Once these projects are completed, they can house thousands of residents affordably, which allows occupants to find quality jobs in the city and eventually move out of these housing developments.

In conclusion, the government is the major catalyst in all housing solutions in cities. Governments ought to prioritise these efforts before cities become too gentrified and this hinders upwards social mobility.

Answers

limited housing not enough places to live

urban areas cities

seriously addressed dealt with well

governmental action steps taken by the government

private investiture companies

bear the burden of responsibility have a duty towards

limited support not much help

private sector companies/corporations

firms companies

generate the greatest profits make the most money

largely cater projects towards a wealthy clientele mostly just care about rich projects

likely replace smaller homes probably get rid of small houses/apartments

exacerbating making worse

existing housing crisis already there problems with housing

to a great degree significantly

ambitious developers knocked down companies looking to make money destroyed

housing projects where lots of people live, tends to be poorer people

built luxury apartments construct nice homes

brownstone homes nice homes made from a brown material

pushes poor residents out of the city gentrifies

further away from their work not near their jobs

engenders creates, leads to

realistic solution practical resolution

governmental intervention governments stepping in

accept bids take offers

inspirational examples strong instances of

public works projects built for the public

typical process normal way

delineate allow for, circumsribe

unavailable for unregulated commercial exploitation cannot be developed for profit

holds power over controls

house verb meaning to provide a house for

affordably cheaply

occupants residents

major catalyst biggest driver behind

prioritise consider most important

gentrified getting richer and pushing out poorer residents

hinders upwards social mobility stops people from getting richer

Pronunciation

ˈlɪmɪtɪd ˈhaʊzɪŋ 
ˈɜːbən ˈeərɪəz 
ˈsɪərɪəsli əˈdrɛst 
ˌgʌvənˈmɛntl ˈækʃ(ə)n
ˈpraɪvɪt ɪnˈvɛstɪʧə 
beə ðə ˈbɜːdn ɒv rɪsˌpɒnsəˈbɪlɪti.
ˈlɪmɪtɪd səˈpɔːt 
ˈpraɪvɪt ˈsɛktə
fɜːmz 
ˈʤɛnəreɪt ðə ˈgreɪtɪst ˈprɒfɪts 
ˈlɑːʤli ˈkeɪtə ˈprɒʤɛkts təˈwɔːdz ə ˈwɛlθi ˌkliːɑːnˈtɛl
ˈlaɪkli rɪˈpleɪs ˈsmɔːlə həʊmz
ɛksˈæsə(ː)beɪtɪŋ 
ɪgˈzɪstɪŋ ˈhaʊzɪŋ ˈkraɪsɪs
tuː ə greɪt dɪˈgriː 
æmˈbɪʃəs dɪˈvɛləpəz nɒkt daʊn 
ˈhaʊzɪŋ ˈprɒʤɛkts 
bɪlt ˈlʌkʃəri əˈpɑːtmənts 
ˈbraʊnˌstəʊn həʊmz
ˈpʊʃɪz pʊə ˈrɛzɪdənts aʊt ɒv ðə ˈsɪti 
ˈfɜːðər əˈweɪ frɒm ðeə wɜːk 
ɪnˈʤɛndəz 
rɪəˈlɪstɪk səˈluːʃən 
ˌgʌvənˈmɛntl ˌɪntə(ː)ˈvɛnʃən
əkˈsɛpt bɪdz 
ˌɪnspəˈreɪʃən(ə)l ɪgˈzɑːmplz 
ˈpʌblɪk wɜːks ˈprɒʤɛkts 
ˈtɪpɪk(ə)l ˈprəʊsɛs 
dɪˈlɪnɪeɪt 
ˌʌnəˈveɪləbl fɔːr ʌnˈrɛgjʊleɪtɪd kəˈmɜːʃəl ˌɛksplɔɪˈteɪʃən
həʊldz ˈpaʊər ˈəʊvə 
haʊs 
əˈfɔːdəbliː
ˈɒkjʊpənts 
ˈmeɪʤə ˈkætəlɪst 
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz 
ˈʤɛntrɪfraɪd
ˈhaɪndəz ˈʌpwədz ˈsəʊʃəl məʊˈbɪlɪti

Listen and repeat:

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

Many people today feel that l______________g in u_____________s can only be s___________________d by g__________________________n. In my opinion, p____________________________e in this area will always be low so governments b________________________________y.

Only l__________________t for housing problems will come from the p________________r. Large real estate and construction f__________s are mainly motivated to g________________________________s and will therefore l________________________________________e. This means building large apartments and homes that l___________________________s, e_______________________g any e________________________________s. This has happened t________________________e in New York City where a_________________________________n government h______________________s and b________________________________s and b__________________________s. This p________________________________y and f__________________________k and e___________________s a variety of social problems.

The only r__________________n for housing shortages in major urban areas in g______________________________n. Governments can either build themselves or a__________________s from construction companies. There are i______________________s of p________________________________s in cities all around the world. The t____________________s is that the government will d__________________e an undeveloped or poorly planned area for new homes and accept bids from private companies. Since these areas are u_____________________________________________________________n, the government h___________________r the private companies. Once these projects are completed, they can h________e thousands of residents a______________y, which allows o______________s to find quality jobs in the city and eventually move out of these housing developments.

In conclusion, the government is the m______________t in all housing solutions in cities. Governments ought to p________________e these efforts before cities become too g______________d and this h___________________________________y.

Listen and check:

Listening Practice

Watch a specific housing crisis problem in the short video below:

Reading Practice

Read here about how going green can help with the housing crisis:

https://www.theatlantic.com/sponsored/citi-2018/how-sustainable-development-has-taken-root-nationwide/1969/

Speaking Practice

Answer the questions below from the real speaking exam:

Where you Live

  1. Where is your hometown?
  2. Would you like to live there in the future?
  3. What don’t you like about your home?

Writing Practice

Write about the following related topic and then read my sample answer:

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

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Fashion (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Fashion (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the general training exam on the topic of fashion.

It was a little bit tricky to think of main ideas for each paragraph – read below to see what I did with it!

Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!

Dave

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Fashion (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

The number of people who are interested in and wearing fashionable clothes is increasing.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test

More and more people today are interested in and have the disposable income to take greater care with their fashion choices. In my opinion, though many fashion companies exploit their workers, this is a positive development overall.

Those who criticise the fashion industry often point out its treatment of workers. The most famous fashion brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel (as well as footwear makers such as Nike and Adidas) outsource their labour at reduced costs to East Asia. Workers in their factories make subsistence wages and are notoriously mistreated, while the countries in question often have lax child labour laws as well. Exploitive fashion companies then massively inflate prices for their products. Their actions cannot be controlled directly by consumers but nonetheless undermine every innocent transaction at a shopping mall.

Regardless, fashion is an important aesthetic choice for ordinary people. The exploitation of workers ought to be regulated by governments and corporations, not consumers. Those who buy fashionable clothes are trying to express themselves through their attire and the end result of a more fashion-conscious public is greater beauty for onlookers. No one would question the importance of beautiful buildings and public works of art but fashion is arguably more noticeable. Fashion gives not only individuals but also towns, cities, and nations a distinctive flair, without which the world would be blander and less beautiful.

In conclusion, the beauty fashion engenders outweighs any ethical considerations. Governments ought to properly regulate labour so that their citizens can shop and flaunt with a clear conscience.

Analysis

1. More and more people today are interested in and have the disposable income to take greater care with their fashion choices. 2. In my opinion, though many fashion companies exploit their workers, this is a positive development overall.

  1. Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
  2. Clearly state your opinion.

1. Those who criticise the fashion industry often point out its treatment of workers. 2. The most famous fashion brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel (as well as footwear makers such as Nike and Adidas) outsource their labour at reduced costs to East Asia. 3. Workers in their factories make subsistence wages and are notoriously mistreated, while the countries in question often have lax child labour laws as well. 4. Exploitive fashion companies then massively inflate prices for their products. 5. Their actions cannot be controlled directly by consumers but nonetheless undermine every innocent transaction at a shopping mall.

  1. Write a topic sentence with your main idea at the end.
  2. Begin to support your main idea with examples.
  3. Continue to develop the same examples.
  4. State the end result or draw conclusions from your examples.
  5. Conclude the paragraph.

1. Regardless, fashion is an important aesthetic choice for ordinary people. 2. The exploitation of workers ought to be regulated by governments and corporations, not consumers. 3. Those who buy fashionable clothes are trying to express themselves through their attire and the end result of a more fashion-conscious public is greater beauty for onlookers. 4. No one would question the importance of beautiful buildings and public works of art but fashion is arguably more noticeable. 5. Fashion gives not only individuals but also towns, cities, and nations a distinctive flair, without which the world would be blander and less beautiful.

  1. Write another topic sentence with your main idea at the end.
  2. Here I start developing it by referring back to the argument from the last paragraph – this is good for cohesion/coherence.
  3. Instead of an example, I use a logical argument.
  4. Then I argue with an analogy.
  5. Finally, I conclude the paragraph by summarising my argument.

1. In conclusion, the beauty fashion engenders outweighs any ethical considerations. 2. Governments ought to properly regulate labour so that their citizens can shop and flaunt with a clear conscience.

  1. Repeat your opinion.
  2. Include a final detail/thought.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean?

More and more people today are interested in and have the disposable income to take greater care with their fashion choices. In my opinion, though many fashion companies exploit their workers, this is a positive development overall.

Those who criticise the fashion industry often point out its treatment of workers. The most famous fashion brands like Louis Vuitton and Chanel (as well as footwear makers such as Nike and Adidas) outsource their labour at reduced costs to East Asia. Workers in their factories make subsistence wages and are notoriously mistreated, while the countries in question often have lax child labour laws as well. Exploitive fashion companies then massively inflate prices for their products. Their actions cannot be controlled directly by consumers but nonetheless undermine every innocent transaction at a shopping mall.

Regardless, fashion is an important aesthetic choice for ordinary people. The exploitation of workers ought to be regulated by governments and corporations, not consumers. Those who buy fashionable clothes are trying to express themselves through their attire and the end result of a more fashion-conscious public is greater beauty for onlookers. No one would question the importance of beautiful buildings and public works of art but fashion is arguably more noticeable. Fashion gives not only individuals but also towns, cities, and nations a distinctive flair, without which the world would be blander and less beautiful.

In conclusion, the beauty fashion engenders outweighs any ethical considerations. Governments ought to properly regulate labour so that their citizens can shop and flaunt with a clear conscience.

Answers

more and more increasingly

disposable income money to spend

take greater care with pay more attention to

exploit take advantage of

positive development overall good

criticise think badly of

point out argue

treatment of workers employment conditions

brands companies

footwear shoes

outsource send to other countries

labour workers

reduced costs money saved

subsistence wages just enough to live on

notoriously mistreated badly expoloited

in question relevant here

lax child labour laws allow kids to work

massively inflate prices increase the cost a lot

controlled directly have power over

undermine is part of

innocent transaction guiltless purchase

regardless nonetheless

aesthetic choice artistic decision

ordinary people normal citizens

regulated controlled

express themselves show off

attire clothes

end result final impact

fashion-conscious public people who care about their clothes

onlookers those who see it

arguably debatedly

noticeable can be seen

distinctive flair showy

without which lacking

blander boring

engenders creates

ethical considerations moral concerns

properly correctly

flaunt show off

clear conscience without guilt

Pronunciation

mɔːr ænd mɔː 
dɪsˈpəʊzəbl ˈɪnkʌm 
teɪk ˈgreɪtə keə wɪð 
ˈɛksplɔɪt 
ˈpɒzətɪv dɪˈvɛləpmənt ˈəʊvərɔːl
ˈkrɪtɪsaɪz 
pɔɪnt aʊt 
ˈtriːtmənt ɒv ˈwɜːkəz
brændz 
ˈfʊtweə 
ˌaʊtˈsɔːs 
ˈleɪbə 
rɪˈdjuːst kɒsts 
səbˈsɪstəns ˈweɪʤɪz 
nəʊˈtɔːrɪəsli mɪsˈtriːtɪd
ɪn ˈkwɛsʧən 
læks ʧaɪld ˈleɪbə lɔːz 
ˈmæsɪvli ɪnˈfleɪt ˈpraɪsɪz 
kənˈtrəʊld dɪˈrɛktli 
ˌʌndəˈmaɪn 
ˈɪnəsənt trænˈzækʃən 
rɪˈgɑːdlɪs
iːsˈθɛtɪk ʧɔɪs 
ˈɔːdnri ˈpiːpl
ˈrɛgjʊleɪtɪd 
ɪksˈprɛs ðəmˈsɛlvz 
əˈtaɪə 
ɛnd rɪˈzʌlt 
ˈfæʃən-ˈkɒnʃəs ˈpʌblɪk 
ˈɒnˌlʊkəz
ˈɑːgjʊəbli 
ˈnəʊtɪsəbl
dɪsˈtɪŋktɪv fleə
wɪˈðaʊt wɪʧ 
ˈblændə 
ɪnˈʤɛndəz 
ˈɛθɪkəl kənˌsɪdəˈreɪʃənz
ˈprɒpəli 
flɔːnt 
klɪə ˈkɒnʃəns

Listen and repeat:

Vocabulary Practice

M_____________________e people today are interested in and have the d___________________e to t_________________________h their fashion choices. In my opinion, though many fashion companies e________t their workers, this is a p________________________________l.

Those who c_________e the fashion industry often p_____________t its t__________________________s. The most famous fashion b________s like Louis Vuitton and Chanel (as well as f_________________r makers such as Nike and Adidas) o____________e their l____________r at r______________s to East Asia. Workers in their factories make s__________________s and are n____________________d, while the countries i____________________n often have l______________________s as well. Exploitive fashion companies then m___________________________s for their products. Their actions cannot be c___________________y by consumers but nonetheless u_______________e every i__________________n at a shopping mall.

R________________s, fashion is an important a___________________e for o_______________e. The exploitation of workers ought to be r____________d by governments and corporations, not consumers. Those who buy fashionable clothes are trying to e__________________s through their a________e and the e_______________t of a more f______________________________c is greater beauty for o__________s. No one would question the importance of beautiful buildings and public works of art but fashion is a______________y more n_____________e. Fashion gives not only individuals but also towns, cities, and nations a d________________________r, w_______________h the world would be b__________r and less beautiful.

In conclusion, the beauty fashion e_____________s outweighs any e____________________s. Governments ought to p____________y regulate labour so that their citizens can shop and f_________t with a c____________________e.

Listen and check:

Listening Practice

TWatch a bit below about the history of fashion:

Reading Practice

Read more about the importance of fashion below:

https://artsandculture.google.com/theme/why-fashion-matters/_QKS0J-OeT7HIA?hl=en

Speaking Practice

Answer the following questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Talk about a fashion item that you want to buy. Include:

What it is

Where you can get it

How expensive it is

Writing Practice

Write about the following related topic and then read my sample answer:

Many people believe that music is just a form of entertainment, whilst others believe that music has a much larger impact on society today.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Live Performances (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Live Performances (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of live performances for the real past IELTS exam.

The topic is really common so this can really help you if there is a similar question on your IELTS exam.

Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!

Dave

IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer Essay: Live Performances (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

Watching a live performance such as a play, concert, or sporting event is more enjoyable than watching the same event on television.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test

Many believe that watching live entertainment is better than watching it on television. In my opinion, though the experience of attending a performance in person can be exhilarating, television provides the best viewing experience these days.

Live performances are unique. A good example of this would be in the sporting world. Most would jump at the chance to watch the greats of the game like Messi, Federer and Lebron ply their craft by attending one of their matches in person. The recorded versions of those events will last forever but there is a limited window to catch them in person. Experiencing the best players live highlights the speed, precision, and high-level talent required to dominate other professional athletes. This indelible memory of seeing a genius performing in person also applies to varying degrees for concerts, plays, and speeches.

Nonetheless, advances in broadcasting have elevated the home-viewing experience above the live version. The advent of HD televisions in the last two decades and the expansion of channels are the principle causes. These days, an individual watching a basketball game can hear play-by-play and colour commentary, see close-ups of the players, follow the action from the ideal view, and enjoy all this within the comforts of their own home. The memory may be less distinct but the experience itself is more enjoyable. This collective shift away from most major live events and towards home entertainment is evidenced in lower attendance numbers and ticket prices.

In conclusion, the best way to watch a live event is on television. There may be certain exceptions depending on the kind of event and how often it occurs but this holds true for most live performances.

Analysis

1. Many believe that watching live entertainment is better than watching it on television. 2. In my opinion, though the experience of attending a performance in person can be exhilarating, television provides the best viewing experience these days.

  1. Your first sentence should paraphrase the overall idea for the whole essay.
  2. The second sentence should be your opinion. You don’t have to include your main ideas yet (though you can, like I did).

1. Live performances are unique. 2. A good example of this would be in the sporting world. 3. Most would jump at the chance to watch the greats of the game like Messi, Federer and Lebron ply their craft by attending one of their matches in person. 4. The recorded versions of those events will last forever but there is a limited window to catch them in person. 5. Experiencing the best players live highlights the speed, precision, and high-level talent required to dominate other professional athletes. 6. This indelible memory of seeing a genius performing in person also applies to varying degrees for concerts, plays, and speeches.

  1. Write a short, simple topic sentence.
  2. Begin to develop your main idea with an example.
  3. Keep developing it with specific details – notice the real athletes I include.
  4. Talk about the result/implication of your example.
  5. Continue developing the same main idea.
  6. Here I generalise it to examples beyond sports.

1. Nonetheless, advances in broadcasting have elevated the home-viewing experience above the live version. 2. The advent of HD televisions in the last two decades and the expansion of channels are the principle causes. 3. These days, an individual watching a basketball game can hear play-by-play and colour commentary, see close-ups of the players, follow the action from the ideal view, and enjoy all this within the comforts of their own home. 4. The memory may be less distinct but the experience itself is more enjoyable. 5. This collective shift away from most major live events and towards home entertainment is evidenced in lower attendance numbers and ticket prices.

  1. Another topic sentence with a main idea at the end.
  2. Beging developing your main idea.
  3. The more specific details, the better!
  4. Draw conclusions based on your example.
  5. Conclude your paragraph with more support.

1. In conclusion, the best way to watch a live event is on television. 2. There may be certain exceptions depending on the kind of event and how often it occurs but this holds true for most live performances.

  1. Repeat your opinion.
  2. Add a final thought at the end.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean?

Many believe that watching live entertainment is better than watching it on television. In my opinion, though the experience of attending a performance in person can be exhilarating, television provides the best viewing experience these days.

Live performances are unique. A good example of this would be in the sporting world. Most would jump at the chance to watch the greats of the game like Messi, Federer and Lebron ply their craft by attending one of their matches in person. The recorded versions of those events will last forever but there is a limited window to catch them in person. Experiencing the best players live highlights the speed, precision, and high-level talent required to dominate other professional athletes. This indelible memory of seeing a genius performing in person also applies to varying degrees for concerts, plays, and speeches.

Nonetheless, advances in broadcasting have elevated the home-viewing experience above the live version. The advent of HD televisions in the last two decades and the expansion of channels are the principle causes. These days, an individual watching a basketball game can hear play-by-play and colour commentary, see close-ups of the players, follow the action from the ideal view, and enjoy all this within the comforts of their own home. The memory may be less distinct but the experience itself is more enjoyable. This collective shift away from most major live events and towards home entertainment is evidenced in lower attendance numbers and ticket prices.

In conclusion, the best way to watch a live event is on television. There may be certain exceptions depending on the kind of event and how often it occurs but this holds true for most live performances.

Answers

live entertainment real time shows

attending going to

in person in real life

exhilarating exciting

best viewing experience these days better for watching nowadays

unique special

the sporting world sports

jump at the chance to eager to

greats of the game best players

ply their craft play

recorded versions taped broadcasts

limited window to catch them in person not much time to see them in real life

highlights best plays from a game

precision exactness

dominate be better than

indelible memory unforgettable experience

applies holds true for

varying degrees depends

nonetheless regardless

broadcasting showing

elevated rising above

home-viewing experience watching at home

advent beginning

HD televisions high definition TVs

last two decades last 20 years

expansion getting larger

principle causes main reasons for

play-by-play what is happening in a game

colour commentary anaylsis of a game

close-ups see the players up close on screen

follow the action from the ideal view see if from the best vantage point

within the comforts of their own home conveniently at home

less distinct not as memorable

collective shift away from everyone no longer

evidenced supported by

certain exceptions some cases outside this view

holds true applies also

Pronunciation

lɪv ˌɛntəˈteɪnmənt 
əˈtɛndɪŋ 
ɪn ˈpɜːsn 
ɪgˈzɪləreɪtɪŋ
bɛst ˈvjuːɪŋ ɪksˈpɪərɪəns ðiːz deɪz
juːˈniːk
ðə ˈspɔːtɪŋ wɜːld
ʤʌmp æt ðə ʧɑːns tuː 
greɪts ɒv ðə geɪm 
plaɪ ðeə krɑːft 
rɪˈkɔːdɪd ˈvɜːʃənz 
ˈlɪmɪtɪd ˈwɪndəʊ tuː kæʧ ðɛm ɪn ˈpɜːsn
ˈhaɪˌlaɪts 
prɪˈsɪʒən
ˈdɒmɪneɪt 
ɪnˈdɛlɪbl ˈmɛməri 
əˈplaɪz 
ˈveəriɪŋ dɪˈgriːz 
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
ˈbrɔːdkɑːstɪŋ 
ˈɛlɪveɪtɪd 
həʊm-ˈvjuːɪŋ ɪksˈpɪərɪəns 
ˈædvənt 
eɪʧ-diː ˈtɛlɪˌvɪʒənz 
lɑːst tuː ˈdɛkeɪdz 
ɪksˈpænʃən 
ˈprɪnsəpl ˈkɔːzɪz
pleɪ-baɪ-pleɪ 
ˈkʌlə ˈkɒməntəri
ˈkləʊsˈʌps 
ˈfɒləʊ ði ˈækʃ(ə)n frɒm ði aɪˈdɪəl vjuː
wɪˈðɪn ðə ˈkʌmfəts ɒv ðeər əʊn həʊm
lɛs dɪsˈtɪŋkt 
kɒˈlɛktɪv ʃɪft əˈweɪ frɒm 
ˈɛvɪdənst 
ˈsɜːtn ɪkˈsɛpʃənz 
həʊldz truː 

Listen and repeat:

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

Many believe that watching l________________________t is better than watching it on television. In my opinion, though the experience of a______________g a performance i______________n can be e____________g, television provides the b_____________________________________s.

Live performances are u__________e. A good example of this would be in t________________________________d. Most would j_________________________o watch the g________________________e like Messi, Federer and Lebron p__________________________t by attending one of their matches in person. The r___________________s of those events will last forever but there is a l___________________________________n. Experiencing the best players live h______________________s the speed, p______________n, and high-level talent required to d____________________e other professional athletes. This i_____________________y of seeing a genius performing in person also a________________s to v_______________s for concerts, plays, and speeches.

N________________s, advances in b__________________g have e___________d the h_______________________________e above the live version. The a_________t of H_______________________s in the l________________s and the e_____________n of channels are the p__________________s. These days, an individual watching a basketball game can hear p___________________y and c_____________________y, see c_______________s of the players, f____________________________________w, and enjoy all this w_____________________________________e. The memory may be l_______________t but the experience itself is more enjoyable. This c________________________________m most major live events and towards home entertainment is e____________________d in lower attendance numbers and ticket prices.

In conclusion, the best way to watch a live event is on television. There may be c_____________________s depending on the kind of event and how often it occurs but this h______________e for most live performances.

Listen and check:

Listening Practice

Take a look at this guy’s home entertainment system!

Reading Practice

Here is an example of how Coronavirus has impacted live performances:

https://www.theatlantic.com/ideas/archive/2020/03/musicians-coronavirus-second-cataclysm/608074/

Speaking Practice

Practice with the speaking part 2 question from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Architecture

  1. Are there a lot of buildings where you live?
  2. What kind of architecture do you like the most?
  3. Where would you live, if you could live in any home in the world?
  4. Is architecture an important part of a city’s identity?

Writing Practice

Write about the following related essay then read my sample answer:

Some believe technology has made our lives too complex and the solution is to lead a simpler life without technology.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Real Past IELTS Exam/Test
IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Mobile Phones and Social Interaction (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Mobile Phones and Social Interaction (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of mobile phones and social interaction from the real IELTS exam.

Please consider signing up for my Patreon here in order to support my efforts and receive exclusive Ebooks and materials related to IELTS!

Before reading it, take a minute to listen to the audio and take notes:

Dave

IELTS Writing Task 2 General Training Sample Answer Essay: Mobile Phones and Social Interaction (Real Past IELTS Exam/Test)

Some people believe that smartphones are destroying social interaction today.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Recent IELTS Exam/Test

Many today are of the belief that smartphones are injurious to social interaction. In my opinion, while smartphones can isolate individuals, their creative potential for communication overshadows this downside.

Those who argue against smartphones are typically wary of isolation. In the era before smartphones, it was more common for people to meet up at large social gatherings or see each other in person. This still happens today but it is less common because smartphones allow individuals to communicate and stay connected with their friends in the privacy of their own homes. It is entirely possible for a person today to stay home and completely eschew in person social interaction. Cases of these shut-ins have increased due to smartphones and this is also reflected in the number of services like Netflix and YouTube that cater to isolated consumers.

However, proponents of smartphones can rightly point out their functionality. This is evidenced daily in messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WeChat. It is easy to set up group chats to message, share links, gifs and video for co-workers, family, old classmates, and various subsets of friends. This type of instant, infinitely flexible communication was impossible in the past and the ability to share images and video allows people to be more creative and banter in new ways. Far from destroying social interaction, smartphones have expanded its scope, accessibility, and convenience.

In conclusion, smartphones are not destroying social interactions; they are helping it, in general. It is important to be mindful of both the drawbacks and the new possibilities for communication opening up due to advances in technology.

Analysis

1. Many today are of the belief that smartphones are injurious to social interaction. 2. In my opinion, while smartphones can isolate individuals, their creative potential for communication overshadows this downside.

  1. In your first sentence, paraphrase the topic for the whole essay.
  2. Then write a clear opinion.

1. Those who argue against smartphones are typically wary of isolation. 2. In the era before smartphones, it was more common for people to meet up at large social gatherings or see each other in person. 3. This still happens today but it is less common because smartphones allow individuals to communicate and stay connected with their friends in the privacy of their own homes. 4. It is entirely possible for a person today to stay home and completely eschew in person social interaction. 5. Cases of these shut-ins have increased due to smartphones and this is also reflected in the number of services like Netflix and YouTube that cater to isolated consumers.

  1. Write a topic sentence with your first main reason at the end of it.
  2. Start developing or explaining your main idea.
  3. Continue to develop the same main idea.
  4. Here I include a hypothetical example to further support my idea.
  5. Finally, I reference research and specific examples to finish supporting my main idea.

1. However, proponents of smartphones can rightly point out their functionality. 2. This is evidenced daily in messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WeChat. 3. It is easy to set up group chats to message, share links, gifs and video for co-workers, family, old classmates, and various subsets of friends. 4. This type of instant, infinitely flexible communication was impossible in the past and the ability to share images and video allows people to be more creative and banter in new ways. 5. Far from destroying social interaction, smartphones have expanded its scope, accessibility, and convenience.

  1. Write another topic sentence with another clear main idea at the end of it.
  2. Use specific examples to support your main idea!
  3. Develop the example with supporting ideas.
  4. Keep developing it by talking about the results.
  5. Conclude your paragraph by tying it back to the overall essay topic.

1. In conclusion, smartphones are not destroying social interactions; they are helping it, in general. 2. It is important to be mindful of both the drawbacks and the new possibilities for communication opening up due to advances in technology.

  1. Repeat your opinion.
  2. Include a final thought.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean?

Many today are of the belief that smartphones are injurious to social interaction. In my opinion, while smartphones can isolate individuals, their creative potential for communication overshadows this downside.

Those who argue against smartphones are typically wary of isolation. In the era before smartphones, it was more common for people to meet up at large social gatherings or see each other in person. This still happens today but it is less common because smartphones allow individuals to communicate and stay connected with their friends in the privacy of their own homes. It is entirely possible for a person today to stay home and completely eschew in person social interaction. Cases of these shut-ins have increased due to smartphones and this is also reflected in the number of services like Netflix and YouTube that cater to isolated consumers.

However, proponents of smartphones can rightly point out their functionality. This is evidenced daily in messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WeChat. It is easy to set up group chats to message, share links, gifs and video for co-workers, family, old classmates, and various subsets of friends. This type of instant, infinitely flexible communication was impossible in the past and the ability to share images and video allows people to be more creative and banter in new ways. Far from destroying social interaction, smartphones have expanded its scope, accessibility, and convenience.

In conclusion, smartphones are not destroying social interactions; they are helping it, in general. It is important to be mindful of both the drawbacks and the new possibilities for communication opening up due to advances in technology.

Answers

of the belief

injurious

social interaction

isolate

creative potential

overshadows

downside

argue against

typically wary

era

meet up

large social gatherings

in person

stay connected

in the privacy of their own homes

entirely possible

eschew

cases of these shut-ins

reflected

cater to

proponents

rightly point out

functionality

evidenced daily

set up group chats

gifs

various subsets of friends

instant, infinitely flexible communication

impossible

share images

banter

Far from

expanded its scope, accessibility, and convenience

in general

be mindful

opening up

Pronunciation

ɒv ðə bɪˈliːf 
ɪnˈʤʊərɪəs 
ˈsəʊʃəl ˌɪntərˈækʃən
ˈaɪsəleɪt 
kri(ː)ˈeɪtɪv pəʊˈtɛnʃəl 
ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊz 
ˈdaʊnˌsaɪd
ˈɑːgjuː əˈgɛnst 
ˈtɪpɪk(ə)li ˈweəri 
ˈɪərə 
miːt ʌp 
lɑːʤ ˈsəʊʃəl ˈgæðərɪŋz 
ɪn ˈpɜːsn
steɪ kəˈnɛktɪd 
ɪn ðə ˈprɪvəsi ɒv ðeər əʊn həʊmz
ɪnˈtaɪəli ˈpɒsəbl 
ɪsˈʧuː 
ˈkeɪsɪz ɒv ðiːz ˈʃʌtˈɪnz 
rɪˈflɛktɪd 
ˈkeɪtə tuː 
prəˈpəʊnənts 
ˈraɪtli pɔɪnt aʊt 
ˌfʌŋkʃəˈnælɪti
ˈɛvɪdənst ˈdeɪli 
sɛt ʌp gruːp ʧæts 
gifs 
ˈveərɪəs ˈsʌbsɛts ɒv frɛndz
ˈɪnstənt, ˈɪnfɪnɪtli ˈflɛksəbl kəˌmjuːnɪˈkeɪʃən 
ɪmˈpɒsəbl 
ʃeər ˈɪmɪʤɪz 
ˈbæntə 
fɑː frɒm 
ɪksˈpændɪd ɪts skəʊp, əkˌsɛsɪˈbɪlɪti, ænd kənˈviːniəns.
ɪn ˈʤɛnərəl
biː ˈmaɪndfʊl 
ˈəʊpnɪŋ ʌp 

Listen and repeat:

Vocabulary Practice

Many today are o______________f that smartphones are i___________s to s__________________n. In my opinion, while smartphones can i________e individuals, their c_________________l for communication o____________s this d___________e.

Those who a_____________t smartphones are t_______________y of isolation. In the e___a before smartphones, it was more common for people to m_________p at l_________________________s or see each other i_____________n. This still happens today but it is less common because smartphones allow individuals to communicate and s_________________d with their friends i______________________________________________s. It is e____________________e for a person today to stay home and completely e__________w in person social interaction. C__________________________s have increased due to smartphones and this is also r_______________d in the number of services like Netflix and YouTube that c_________o isolated consumers.

However, p_____________s of smartphones can r______________t their f_______________y. This is e_____________________y in messaging apps like Facebook Messenger and WeChat. It is easy to s_______________________s to message, share links, g_______s and video for co-workers, family, old classmates, and v______________________s. This type of i___________t, i_____________________________n was i______________e in the past and the ability to s_________________s and video allows people to be more creative and b_____________r in new ways. F__________m destroying social interaction, smartphones have e_______________________e, a________________y, and c___________________e.

In conclusion, smartphones are not destroying social interactions; they are helping it, i______________l. It is important to b_______________l of both the drawbacks and the new possibilities for communication o______________p due to advances in technology.

Listen and check:

Listening Practice

Learn more about how your cell phone is changing you below:

Reading Practice

Read here about breaking your smartphone addiction:

https://www.wired.co.uk/article/smartphone-addiction-tips

Speaking Practice

Answer the questions below from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Mobile Phones and Smartphones

  1. What are the advantages of smartphones?
  2. Should children be allowed to own smartphones?
  3. Do you thinks have a major or minor impact on mental health?
  4. Where in your country is it not appropriate to use a phone?
  5. Do you think smartphone usage may decline in the future?

Writing Practice

Write about the related question below and then read my sample answer on it:

The use of social media is replacing face-to-face interaction among many people in society.

Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Real Past IELTS Test/Exam