This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of television from the real IELTS test.
I took the question in an interesting direction by focusing on television in terms of how it is streamed online and not actually watched on a physical TV.
It is a little risky so let me know what you think of it in the comments!
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: Television (Real IELTS Test)
Nowadays children watch much more television than they did in the past and spend less time being active or creative.
What is the reason for this?
What measures should be taken to encourage children to be more active?
Today children spend more time watching television than at any point in the past. The reason for this is the development of online streaming websites and parents should eschew smartphones to curb this trend towards passivity.
The main reason that many children today spend an outsized amount of time watching television is that it is widely available on streaming websites. YouTube was the earliest, and now the most popular, streaming website for video content. Children are often allowed to watch it on smartphones or iPads. The more recent rise of streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu provide the same experience as television on the internet. Simply put, children spend more time watching because they have the ability to choose whatever show they want, pause it, and binge watch TV shows on a variety of portable devices with limited adult supervision.
In order to discourage children from watching television, parents should not give their children smartphones under any circumstances. This is the first step that responsible parents must undertake. Once children are no longer tempted by phones, it is much easier to get them interested in creative outlets. Parents can sign up their children for art or music lessons. They could encourage them to do art at home and instead of putting a TV in their room, fill it with books and art supplies. Children’s natural curiosity and artistic energy will naturally take over from that point and parents then need only supervise, guide and intervene when called upon.
In conclusion, parents can counterbalance the rise of streaming by banning portable devices and stocking up on art supplies. Unfortunately, it will take a concerted effort from the majority of parents to prevent children without devices from being ostracised socially.
Analysis
1. Today children spend more time watching television than at any point in the past. 2. The reason for this is the development of online streaming websites and parents should eschew smartphones to curb this trend towards passivity.
Your first sentence should simply restate the topic for the essay – write it quickly and simply.
For the second sentence, answer the two questions clearly. You will repeat this again in the conclusion.
1. The main reason that many children today spend an outsized amount of time watching television is that it is widely available on streaming websites. 2. YouTube was the earliest, and now the most popular, streaming website for video content. 3. Children are often allowed to watch it on smartphones or iPads. 4. The more recent rise of streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu provide the same experience as television on the internet. 5. Simply put, children spend more time watching because they have the ability to choose whatever show they want, pause it, and binge watch TV shows on a variety of portable devices with limited adult supervision.
Your first sentence should be a topic sentence that clearly states your main idea. Read more about topic sentences here.
In the next sentence, I begin to talk about YouTube. Start your examples quickly and make them as specific as you can.
Your third sentence should keep develop the same example. Don’t introduce a new main idea or a second example.
The fourth sentence also develops the same example with more specific detail. Be specific!
My fifth sentence also develops the same example. Develop, develop, develop!
1. In order to discourage children from watching television, parents should not give their children smartphones under any circumstances. 2. This is the first step that responsible parents must undertake. 3. Once children are no longer tempted by phones, it is much easier to get them interested in creative outlets. 4. Parents can sign up their children for art or music lessons. 5. They could encourage them to do art at home and instead of putting a TV in their room, fill it with books and art supplies. 6. Children’s natural curiosity and artistic energy will naturally take over from that point and parents then need only supervise, guide and intervene when called upon.
Just like the last paragraph, this first sentence is a topic sentence with the main idea for this paragraph. In this essay the first paragraph describes the reason and the second one describes my solution.
My second sentence here explains my main idea. You don’t always need this sentence.
Your third sentence should give specific support through an example or hypothetical situation.
The fourth sentence should continue developing…
The fifth sentence does the same – don’t go off topic – stick the same main idea!
Conclude your paragraph with more support.
1. In conclusion, parents can counterbalance the rise of streaming by banning portable devices and stocking up on art supplies. 2. Unfortunately, it will take a concerted effort from the majority of parents to prevent children without devices from being ostracised socially.
The first sentence of the conclusion should repeat your answer to the two questions asked. If you don’t answer them directly, you will get band 5 for task achievement.
You last sentence should add a final thought/extra detail. Don’t forget to include this sentence.
Vocabulary
Today children spend more time watching television than at any point in the past. The reason for this is the development of online streaming websites and parents should eschew smartphones to curb this trend towards passivity.
The main reason that many children today spend an outsized amount of time watching television is that it is widely available on streaming websites. YouTube was the earliest, and now the most popular, streaming website for video content. Children are often allowed to watch it on smartphones or iPads. The more recent rise of streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu provide the same experience as television on the internet. Simply put, children spend more time watching because they have the ability to choose whatever show they want, pause it, and binge watch TV shows on a variety of portable devices with limited adult supervision.
In order to discourage children from watching television, parents should not give their children smartphones under any circumstances. This is the first step that responsible parents must undertake. Once children are no longer tempted by phones, it is much easier to get them interested in creative outlets. Parents can sign up their children for art or music lessons. They could encourage them to do art at home and instead of putting a TV in their room, fill it with books and art supplies. Children’s natural curiosity and artistic energy will naturally take over from that point and parents then need only supervise, guide and intervene when called upon.
In conclusion, parents can counterbalance the rise of streaming by banning portable devices and stocking up on art supplies. Unfortunately, it will take a concerted effort from the majority of parents to prevent children without devices from being ostracised socially.
Answers
at any point at any time
online streaming sites like YouTube and Netflix
eschew avoid
curb slow down
passivity not active, lazy
outsized too much importance
video content videos
simply put said in a simple way
binge watch watch multiple episodes in a row
portable devices phones and tablets
limited adult supervision parents not paying attention
Today children spend more time watching television than _______________ in the past. The reason for this is the development of _______________ websites and parents should _______________ smartphones to _______________ this trend towards _______________.
The main reason that many children today spend an _______________ amount of time watching television is that it is widely available on streaming websites. YouTube was the earliest, and now the most popular, streaming website for _______________. Children are often allowed to watch it on smartphones or iPads. The more recent rise of streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu provide the same experience as television on the internet. _______________, children spend more time watching because they have the ability to choose whatever show they want, pause it, and _______________ TV shows on a variety of _______________ with _______________.
In order to _______________ children from watching television, parents should not give their children smartphones _______________. This is the first step that responsible parents must _______________. Once children are no longer _______________ by phones, it is much easier to get them interested in _______________. Parents can sign up their children for art or music lessons. They could encourage them to do art at home and instead of putting a TV in their room, fill it with books and art supplies. Children’s _______________ and _______________ will naturally _______________ from that point and parents then need only _______________, guide and _______________ when _______________.
In conclusion, parents can _______________ the rise of streaming by portable devices and _______________ on art supplies. Unfortunately, it will take a _______________ effort from the majority of parents to prevent children without devices from being _______________.
Listening Practice
Watch the video below and review the ideas/vocabulary from my sample answer:
Reading Practice
Read more about the impact of television on children:
Many people believe that social networking sites (such as Facebook) have a huge negative impact on both individuals and society.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
The advent of social networking sites, mainly Facebook and Instagram, in the early decades of the 21st century have transformed the ways that people interact with their friends and community. I am in complete agreement that they have had a negative overall impact on both individuals and society.
Social networking sites hurt individuals by replacing more active forms of enjoyment with transitory, unhealthy self-esteem boosts. In the past, people were more likely to take up an active hobby such as painting, playing a sport or learning a musical instrument. Over time those hobbies increase self-esteem, provide hours of enjoyment, and can be seen as active and healthy to varying degrees. Facebook and Instagram replace not only the time spent on worthwhile hobbies but users also get stuck in a feedback loop which gives them temporary bursts of dopamine in place of longer lasting feelings of accomplishment.
Just as social media has undoubtedly hurt individuals, it has also taken its toll on society. It is a common refrain to hear older people complaining about how generations today are narcissists, glued to their phones. There is an element of truth in this. Social networking sites, coupled with smartphones, allow people to withdraw and be anonymous in public places. Over time people will come to feel they have less in common with their fellow man and society will become fragmented and more insular with deeply complex political, individual and social consequences.
In conclusion, the rise of social networking platforms has hurt individuals and society greatly. In order to combat this, governments and parents should at least better regulate their availability to children and young teens.
Analysis
1. The advent of social networking sites, mainly Facebook and Instagram, in the early decades of the 21st century have transformed the ways that people interact with their friends and community. 2. I am in complete agreement that they have had a negative overall impact on both individuals and society.
My first sentence gives the topic for the whole essay – keep this sentence short, simple and clear (mine is a bit long because I try to show off with it).
Your second sentence should give your opinion. I chose to agree completely so that I could fully develop my ideas about individuals and society in separate paragraphs – use this structure in your writing!
1. Social networking sites hurt individuals by replacing more active forms of enjoyment with transitory, unhealthy self-esteem boosts. 2. In the past, people were more likely to take up an active hobby such as painting, playing a sport or learning a musical instrument. 3. Over time those hobbies increase self-esteem, provide hours of enjoyment, and can be seen as active and healthy to varying degrees. 4. Facebook and Instagram replace not only the time spent on worthwhile hobbies but users also get stuck in a feedback loop which gives them temporary bursts of dopamine in place of longer lasting feelings of accomplishment.
Your first sentence should be a simple topic sentence containing the topic and your single main idea. Read more about topic sentences here.
For the second sentence begin to develop, not explain, your main idea.
Keep developing it – be as clear, specific and detailed as possible. Notice the strong vocabulary that comes out in my answer because I’m writing very specifically.
Finish developing the main idea for the paragraph. Don’t mention a second main idea!
1. Just as social media has undoubtedly hurt individuals, it has also taken its toll on society. 2. It is a common refrain to hear older people complaining about how generations today are narcissists, glued to their phones. 3. There is an element of truth in this. 4. Social networking sites, coupled with smartphones, allow people to withdraw and be anonymous in public places. 5. Over time people will come to feel they have less in common with their fellow man and society will become fragmented and more insular with deeply complex political, individual and social consequences.
Just like in the last paragraph, simple topic sentence!
Develop this main idea as well – try to show off a bit with your vocabulary like I did.
Vary your sentences – sometimes long and complex, sometimes simple and accurate. Like taking a pause when you talk.
The more nuance and detail the better!
My last sentence concludes the main idea for this paragraph.
1. In conclusion, the rise of social networking platforms has hurt individuals and society greatly. 2. In order to combat this, governments and parents should at least better regulate their availability to children and young teens.
The first sentence of your conclusion should repeat your opinion (and offer some summary).
Your final sentence must add a final detail that many examiners require for band 7+ for task achievement.
Vocabulary
Try to figure out what all the words in bold mean below:
The advent of social networking sites, mainly Facebook and Instagram, in the early decades of the 21st century have transformed the ways that people interact with their friends and community. I am in complete agreement that they have had a negative overall impact on both individuals and society.
Social networking sites hurt individuals by replacing more active forms of enjoyment with transitory, unhealthy self-esteem boosts. In the past, people were more likely to take up an active hobby such as painting, playing a sport or learning a musical instrument. Over time those hobbies increase self-esteem, provide hours of enjoyment, and can be seen as active and healthy to varying degrees. Facebook and Instagram replace not only the time spent on worthwhile hobbies but users also get stuck in a feedback loop which gives them temporary bursts of dopamine in place oflonger lasting feelings of accomplishment.
Just as social media has undoubtedly hurt individuals, it has also taken its toll on society. It is a common refrain to hear older people complaining about how generations today are narcissists, glued to their phones. There is an element of truth in this. Social networking sites, coupled with smartphones, allow people to withdraw and be anonymous in public places. Over time people will come to feel they have less in common with their fellow man and society will become fragmented and more insular with deeply complex political, individual and social consequences.
In conclusion, the rise of social networking platforms has hurt individuals and society greatly. In order to combat this, governments and parents should at least better regulate their availability to children and young teens.
Answers
advent beginning
early decades of the 21st century 2000 – 2020
transformed revolutionised
interact with communicate
complete agreement agree 100%
overall impact total effect
replacing swapping positions with
active forms not passive ways
transitory not lasting
unhealthy self-esteem boosts bad ways to feel good about yourself
active hobby not passive pasttime
increase self-esteem feel better about yourself
varying degrees different levels of
worthwhile hobbies worth spending time on
stuck can’t get out of
feedback loop back and forth relationship
temporary bursts short jolts
dopamine a happy neurochemical
in place oflonger lasting instead of something more permanent
Try to remember and fill in the vocabulary from my sample answer:
The ______________ of social networking sites, mainly Facebook and Instagram, in the______________ have ______________ the ways that people ______________ their friends and community. I am in ______________ that they have had a negative ______________ on both individuals and society.
Social networking sites hurt individuals by ______________ more ______________ of enjoyment with ______________, ______________. In the past, people were more likely to take up an ______________ such as painting, playing a sport or learning a musical instrument. Over time those hobbies ______________, provide hours of enjoyment, and can be seen as active and healthy to ______________. Facebook and Instagram replace not only the time spent on ______________ but users also get ______________ in a ______________ which gives them ______________ of ______________ feelings of accomplishment.
Just as social media has ______________ hurt individuals, it has also ______________ on society. It is a ______________ to hear older people complaining about how generations today are ______________, ______________ to their phones. There is an ______________ in this. Social networking sites, ______________ smartphones, allow people to ______________ and be ______________ in ______________. Over time people will come to feel they have less ______________ their ______________ and society will become ______________ and more ______________ with ______________ political, individual and social ______________.
In conclusion, the rise of social networking platforms has hurt individuals and society greatly. In order to combat this, governments and parents should at least ______________ their ______________ to children and young teens.
This is an IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer from the general training test on the topic of whether or not towns should be building shopping malls or public parks/sports facilities.
The only tricky area is whether or not you need to write about both parks and sports facilities.
I think that they are similar enough that you can group them together.
If you need to learn more about IELTS structures, you can read about them here.
Some people think that it is better to build more public parks and sports facilities in new towns rather than shopping malls.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Tests
It is often suggested that it would be better to erect parks and exercise facilities in new urban developments rather than shopping malls. I agree that this would be an ideal solution as it would spur on increased health awareness.
The main reason detractors are in favour of shopping malls is their benefit to the economy. Malls employ hundreds of workers from cashiers to store clerks to managers as well as the various members of janitorial staff charged with maintaining the mall itself. The benefits are clear when you couple these factors with the increased revenue that businesses bring in the form of taxation and propping up the local consumer product market.
Notwithstanding the economic returns malls bring, parks and sports facilities would do more to encourage better health. In most developed nations, buying more products, especially with online services such as Amazon readily available, is no longer a pressing issue. However, health has become the dominant concern of the decade as obesity soars and heart disease has reached pandemic levels. Well maintained, beautifully landscaped parks and outdoor exercise facilities would instill in residents an obligation to work out. If they are numerous, then older people and children, who may not be able to travel far, will also be able to access them.
In conclusion, the job market is less important than the health of ordinary residents. The bigger issue is the feasibility of such an approach given the lack of financial incentive for those towns to prioritise the foundations for their residents’ well-being over business interests.
Analysis
1. It is often suggested that it would be better to erect parks and exercise facilities in new urban developments rather than shopping malls. 2. I agree that this would be an ideal solution as it would spur on increased health awareness.
Your first sentence should restate the topic for the essay. Simple and clear.
The next sentence must include your opinion. Choose a side and be 100% clear about your opinion.
1. The main reason detractors are in favour of shopping malls is their benefit to the economy. 2. Malls employ hundreds of workers from cashiers to store clerks to managers as well as the various members of janitorial staff charged with maintaining the mall itself. 3. The benefits are clear when you couple these factors with the increased revenue that businesses bring in the form of taxation and propping up the local consumer product market.
You should write a topic sentence for both paragraphs. This one contains my single main idea: benefit for the economy.
Your second sentence should begin to develop that main idea with specific examples/ideas. Be as specific as you can!
The third sentence in this paragraph also develops the same main idea. This paragraph is a little bit short – aim for 4 – 5 sentences.
1. Notwithstanding the economic returns malls bring, parks and sports facilities would do more to encourage better health. 2. In most developed nations, buying more products, especially with online services such as Amazon readily available, is no longer a pressing issue. 3. However, health has become the dominant concern of the decade as obesity soars and heart disease has reached pandemic levels. 4. Well maintained, beautifully landscaped parks and outdoor exercise facilities would instill in residents an obligation to work out. 5. If they are numerous, then older people and children, who may not be able to travel far, will also be able to access them.
You should always start the paragraph with a topic sentence. Make it very clear and only include one main idea per paragraph.
After your topic sentence, begin to develop your main idea and be as specific as possible!
Your third sentence should also develop the same main idea.
The fourth sentence continues to develop the main idea. The more specific, the better your vocabulary and cohesion/coherence score will be!
Your last sentence can either summarise or continue to develop. It is better to continue to develop because it will help your task achievement score.
1. In conclusion, the job market is less important than the health of ordinary residents. 2. The bigger issue is the feasibility of such an approach given the lack of financial incentive for those towns to prioritise the foundations for their residents’ well-being over business interests.
The first sentence of your conclusion should repeat your opinion. Don’t worry about summarising.
Your final sentence should add an extra detail.Read more about that here.
Vocabulary
It is often suggested that it would be better to erect parks and exercise facilities in new urban developments rather than shopping malls. I agree that this would be an ideal solution as it would spur on increased health awareness.
The main reason detractors are in favour of shopping malls is their benefit to the economy. Malls employ hundreds of workers from cashiers to store clerks to managers as well as the various members of janitorial staff charged with maintaining the mall itself. The benefits are clear when you couple these factors with the increased revenue that businesses bring in the form of taxation and propping up the local consumer product market.
Notwithstanding the economic returns malls bring, parks and sports facilities would do more to encourage better health. In most developed nations, buying more products, especially with online services such as Amazon readily available, is no longer a pressing issue. However, health has become the dominant concern of the decade as obesity soars and heart disease has reached pandemic levels. Well maintained, beautifully landscaped parks and outdoor exercise facilities would instill in residents an obligation to work out. If they are numerous, then older people and children, who may not be able to travel far, will also be able to access them.
In conclusion, the job market is less important than the health of ordinary residents. The bigger issue is the feasibility of such an approach given the lack of financial incentive for those towns to prioritise the foundations for their residents’ well-being over business interests.
Answers
often suggested many advise
erect build
new urban developments new towns/cities
ideal solution best way forward
spur on encourage
health awareness caring about your health
detractors opponents
in favour of rathering
cashiers people who ring up your purchases
store clerks people working in shops
janitorial staff charged cleaners
couple combine
increased revenue more money
taxation taxes
local consumer product market items being sold there
It is __________________ that it would be better to __________________ parks and exercise facilities in __________________ rather than shopping malls. I agree that this would be an __________________ as it would __________________ increased __________________.
The main reason __________________ are __________________ shopping malls is their benefit to the economy. Malls employ hundreds of workers from __________________ to __________________ to managers as well as the various members of __________________ with maintaining the mall itself. The benefits are clear when you __________________ these factors with the __________________ that businesses bring in the form of __________________ and propping up the __________________.
__________________ the __________________ malls __________________, parks and sports facilities would do more to encourage better health. In most developed nations, buying more products, especially with online services such as Amazon __________________, is __________________ a __________________. However, health has become the __________________ of the decade as __________________ and heart disease has __________________. __________________, beautifully __________________ parks and outdoor exercise facilities would __________________ in residents an __________________ to work out. If they are __________________, then older people and children, who may not be able to travel far, will also be able to __________________ them.
In conclusion, the __________________ is less important than the health of __________________ residents. The bigger issue is the __________________ of such an approach given the __________________ for those towns to __________________ the foundations for their residents’ __________________ over __________________.
[G1]Really
great intro – nice to include your overall opinion as well as the main idea for
it – great sentence!
[G2]Good
clear paragraph, the vocabulary is good but nothing special
[G3]Also
good, it could be a bit more specific and detailed to fully support your
reasons. If people life far from parks, especially in poorer neighborhoods
where children need the exercise the most, they are unlikely to have the time
or ability to get there. Or focus as well on older people who need exercise but
are unlikely to have the desire or ability to travel far.
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.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Real IELTS Past Tests
The general sentiment in most quarters is that recycling is an integral part of combatting climate change and most debate now circles around whether parents or teachers should be most responsible. In my opinion, schools reach the largest number of children overall.
Many believe that instilling values is a parental right. Parents have the basic right to influence their children according to their own beliefs. For example, a Muslim living in a Christian country will likely still follow many Islamic traditions. Even if the child learns implicitly or explicitly about Judeo-Christian tenets in school, the parents have a right to raise their child in the manner they think is most culturally fitting. This also applies to recycling, though it is hardly a matter of subjective belief to most informed citizens today.
Despite the rare potential parents who may be against recycling, schools should be where recycling is taught because government mandates will reach all children. There is simply no way to legislate every single family to make their children recycle but this can be easily enacted in schools. A good example of this would be in Japan where school children take an active role in cleaning and separating their own rubbish for recycling. Not only does this make a huge difference in it of itself but it is also a nationally comprehensive approach to fostering life-long environmentally conscious habits across an entire generation.
In conclusion, schools are more likely to have a larger impact on recycling habits and therefore this is their responsibility. Governments ought to make recycling one of their top educational priorities in the future as part of a cohesive plan to better the environment.
Analysis
1. The general sentiment in most quarters is that recycling is an integral part of combatting climate change and most debate now circles around whether parents or teachers should be most responsible. 2. In my opinion, schools reach the largest number of children overall.
The first sentence simply paraphrases the main topic. Don’t waste too much time making this sentence perfect.
You should write a clear opinion for a second sentence. My opinion here isn’t 100% clear but that is ok because I will make it clearer in my conclusion.
1. Many believe that instilling values is a parental right. 2. Parents have the basic right to influence their children according to their own beliefs. 3. For example, a Muslim living in a Christian country will likely still follow many Islamic traditions. 4. Even if the child learns implicitly or explicitly about Judeo-Christian tenets in school, the parents have a right to raise their child in the manner they think is most culturally fitting. 5. This also applies to recycling, though it is hardly a matter of subjective belief to most informed citizens today.
For you first sentence, write a simple clear topic sentence with your main idea for the whole paragraph.
My second sentence explains my main idea. You might not always need this sentence if your main idea is obvious.
The next sentence should begin an example focused on that main idea. Focus on just 1 main idea, just 1 example, fully developed.
My fourth sentence develops the example.
The last sentence extends the example to the topic of the essay to make a clear connection.
1. Despite the rare potential parents who may be against recycling, schools should be where recycling is taught because government mandates will reach all children. 2. There is simply no way to legislate every single family to make their children recycle but this can be easily enacted in schools. 3. A good example of this would be in Japan where school children take an active role in cleaning and separating their own rubbish for recycling. 4. Not only does this make a huge difference in it of itself but it is also a nationally comprehensive approach to fostering life-long environmentally conscious habits across an entire generation.
My first sentence is another topic sentence. A bit longer this time but still with a single main idea.
The second sentence develops the main idea.
My third sentence begins a specific example. These are the centerpieces of your writing.
The last sentence conludes the paragraph and my example.
1. In conclusion, schools are more likely to have a larger impact on recycling habits and therefore this is their responsibility. 2. Governments ought to make recycling one of their top educational priorities in the future as part of a cohesive plan to better the environment.
In my conclusion, I make my opinion crystal clear.
Add in an extra detail or final thought at the end of your essay – it is important – don’t forget it!
Vocabulary
Try to figure out what the words in bold mean. If you’re not sure, use the context of the sentence and paragraph to work it out!
The general sentiment in most quarters is that recycling is an integral part of combatting climate change and most debate now circles around whether parents or teachers should be most responsible. In my opinion, schools reach the largest number of children overall.
Many believe that instilling values is a parental right. Parents have the basic right to influence their children according to their own beliefs. For example, a Muslim living in a Christian country will likely still follow many Islamic traditions. Even if the child learns implicitly or explicitly about Judeo-Christian tenets in school, the parents have a right to raise their child in the manner they think is most culturally fitting. This also applies to recycling, though it is hardly a matter of subjective belief to most informed citizens today.
Despite the rare potential parents who may be against recycling, schools should be where recycling is taught because government mandates will reach all children. There is simply no way to legislate every single family to make their children recycle but this can be easily enacted in schools. A good example of this would be in Japan where school children take an active role in cleaning and separating their own rubbish for recycling. Not only does this make a huge difference in it of itself but it is also a nationally comprehensive approach to fostering life-long environmentally conscious habits across an entire generation.
In conclusion, schools are more likely to have a larger impact on recycling habits and therefore this is their responsibility. Governments ought to make recycling one of their top educational priorities in the future as part of a cohesive plan to better the environment.
Answers
general sentiment opinion of most people
most quarters the majority of people
integral part important element
circles around surrounds
reach decide on
instilling values enforcing beliefs
parental right parents should be able to
Islamic traditions values from Muslims
implicitly not overtly
explicitly overtly
Judeo-Christian tenets values from the Bible
manner way
culturally fitting that accords with their culture
hardly barely
subjective belief personal feeling
informed citizens educated voters
against recycling oppose recycling
government mandates proclamations/rules from the government
legislate make laws about
easily enacted simple to create and enforce
take an active role be a big part of
in it of itself just by itself
nationally comprehensive approach way of reaching the whole country
fostering life-long environmentally conscious habits encouraging good habits for their whole life
top educational priorities important educational goals
The __________________ in ___________________ is that recycling is an ___________________ of combatting climate change and most debate now ___________________ whether parents or teachers should be most responsible. In my opinion, schools ___________________ the largest number of children overall.
Many believe that ___________________ is a ___________________. Parents have the basic right to influence their children according to their own beliefs. For example, a Muslim living in a Christian country will likely still follow many ___________________. Even if the child learns ___________________ or ___________________ about ___________________ in school, the parents have a right to raise their child in the ___________________ they think is most ___________________. This also applies to recycling, though it is ___________________ a matter of ___________________ to most ___________________ today.
Despite the rare potential parents who may be ___________________, schools should be where recycling is taught because ___________________ will reach all children. There is simply no way to ___________________ every single family to make their children recycle but this can be ___________________ in schools. A good example of this would be in Japan where school children___________________ in cleaning and separating their own rubbish for recycling. Not only does this make a huge difference ___________________ but it is also a ___________________ to___________________ across an entire generation.
In conclusion, schools are more likely to have a larger impact on recycling habits and therefore this is their responsibility. Governments ought to make recycling one of their ___________________ in the future as part of a ___________________ to ___________________ the environment.
Listening Practice
Watch this video to see the example that I wrote about in the third paragraph:
This would also be band 6.5. Lots of
good accurate vocabulary and grammar but nothing too remarkable. The arguments
are good and well supported and it is clear. To get to band 7 you need better
more detailed examples and more natural vocabulary.
Dave
[A1]In
this essay, I will examiner both sides of the argument and then present my own
opinion.
[A2]Awkward
phrasing better to say ‘there are reasons why it is better for parents to …’
Students should be primarily taught academic subjects so that they can pass exams, and practical skills such as cooking should not be taught.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Tests
Many educators today feel pressure to teach to the test and emphasise academic subjects over more practical ones. In my opinion, this approach is overtly short-sighted and practical skills play an important role in a well-rounded education.
Those who support a singular focus on academics can point to its tangible outcome in higher test scores. A good example of this would be accelerating academic progress at inner city schools. There have been numerous reforms in the last several decades to help the poorest performing districts catch up. The results have been uneven at times but overall more students from impoverished or troubled backgrounds can now go to college, often being the first person in their family to do so. Passing exams has the very real benefit of giving them opportunities outside of menial work and, in the most extreme cases, crime.
Though there might be a case for overemphasis on academics in select districts, learning practical skills is an important part of becoming an all around person. Those who possess certain skills, such as a sharp memory and logical thinking, will perform better in academics like math and physics. This means that these skills are rewarded and may become over-developed at the expense of skills related to practical work such as spatial thinking and multi-tasking. Graduates who know how to please their teachers and get good grades in academic subjects will find themselves lacking in real world skills. Adding in practical skills goes a long way towards making this a reality.
In conclusion, the argument for academics only applies to niche segments of society and learning practical skills has tremendous benefits. Schools should find ways to balance both despite external pressure from the government and parents for the reductive measure of higher marks.
Word count: 293
Analysis
1. Many educators today feel pressure to teach to the test and emphasise academic subjects over more practical ones. 2. In my opinion, this approach is overtly short-sighted and practical skills play an important role in a well-rounded education.
The first sentence restates the overall topic of the entire essay.
My second sentence gives my opinion. Always state your opinion clearly, never sit in the middle!
1. Those who support a singular focus on academics can point to its tangible outcome in higher test scores. 2. A good example of this would be accelerating academic progress at inner city schools. 3. There have been numerous reforms in the last several decades to help the poorest performing districts catch up. 4. The results have been uneven at times but overall more students from impoverished or troubled backgrounds can now go to college, often being the first person in their family to do so. 5. Passing exams has the very real benefit of giving them opportunities outside of menial work and, in the most extreme cases, crime.
This is a topic sentence that has my main idea for the whole paragraph.
My second sentence begins my example – don’t waste any time – get right to your example as fast as possible!
The third sentence develops the example. The whole paragraph will be developing this single example.
My fourth sentence also develops the example with more specific detail.
The fiffth sentence summarises my point and further develops the same example.
1. Though there might be a case for overemphasis on academics in select districts, learning practical skills is an important part of becoming an all around person. 2. Those who possess certain skills, such as a sharp memory and logical thinking, will perform better in academics like math and physics. 3. This means that these skills are rewarded and may become over-developed at the expense of skills related to practical work such as spatial thinking and multi-tasking. 4. Graduates who know how to please their teachers and get good grades in academic subjects will find themselves lacking in real world skills. 5. Adding in practical skills goes a long way towards making this a reality.
The next paragraph also begins with a topic sentence with a new main idea: practical skills help people become more well rounded.
My second sentence begins a specific, detailed example.
The third sentence continues to develop this example – be as specific as you can!
My fourth sentence adds more specific detail.
The last sentence ties this back to the importance of practical skills.
1. In conclusion, the argument for academics only applies to niche segments of society and learning practical skills has tremendous benefits. 2. Schools should find ways to balance both despite external pressure from the government and parents for the reductive measure of higher marks.
The first sentence of my conclusion repeats my opinion – be simple and clear!
My final sentence adds an extra detail that many examiners will require for band 7+ for task achievement.
Vocabulary
Try to figure out what the words in bold mean. If you’re not sure, use the context of the sentence and paragraph to work it out!
Many educators today feel pressure to teach to the test and emphasise academic subjects over more practical ones. In my opinion, this approach is overtly short-sighted and practical skills play an important role in a well-rounded education.
Those who support a singular focus on academics can point to its tangible outcome in higher test scores. A good example of this would be accelerating academic progress at inner city schools. There have been numerous reforms in the last several decades to help the poorest performing districts catch up. The results have been uneven at times but overall more students from impoverished or troubled backgrounds can now go to college, often being the first person in their family to do so. Passing exams has the very real benefit of giving them opportunities outside of menial work and, in the most extreme cases, crime.
Though there might be a case for overemphasis on academics in select districts, learning practical skills is an important part of becoming an all around person. Those who possess certain skills, such as a sharp memory and logical thinking, will perform better in academics like math and physics. This means that these skills are rewarded and may become over-developedat the expense of skills related to practical work such as spatial thinking and multi-tasking. Graduates who know how to please their teachers and get good grades in academic subjects will find themselves lacking in real world skills. Adding in practical skills goes a long way towards making this a reality.
In conclusion, the argument for academics only applies to niche segments of society and learning practical skills has tremendous benefits. Schools should find ways to balance both despite external pressure from the government and parents for the reductive measure of higher marks.
Answers
educators teachers
teach to the test focus on exams
overtly short-sighted not a long-term vision
play an important role an important part in
well-rounded education wide range of knowledge
singular focus driven, with blinders on
point reference
tangible outcome clear result
accelerating getting faster
inner city schools poor, urban schools
reforms changes
poorest performing districts schools doing badly
catch up get up to date
uneven at times inconsistent
troubled backgrounds difficult history/home life
very real benefit clear positive
menial work physical work
most extreme cases outliers
overemphasis too much focus on
select districts some neighborhoods
all around everywhere
sharp memory never forgets
logical thinking rational thinking
perform better get better marks
rewarded receive something good
over-developed too much skill at
at the expense of negelecting
spatial thinking thinking about objects and physical space
Many ________________ today feel pressure to ________________ and emphasise academic subjects over more practical ones. In my opinion, this approach is ________________ and practical skills ________________ in a________________.
Those who support a ________________ on academics can ________________ to its ________________ in higher test scores. A good example of this would be ________________ academic progress at________________. There have been numerous ________________ in the last several decades to help the ________________. The results have been________________ but overall more students from impoverished or ________________ can now go to college, often being the first person in their family to do so. Passing exams has the ________________ of giving them opportunities outside of ________________ and, in the________________, crime.
Though there might be a case for ________________ on academics in ________________, learning practical skills is an important part of becoming an ________________ person. Those who possess certain skills, such as a ________________ and ________________, will ________________ in academics like math and physics. This means that these skills are ________________ and may become ________________ skills related to practical work such as ________________ and ________________. Graduates who know how to ________________ their teachers and get good grades in academic subjects will find themselves ________________ in real world skills. ________________ practical skills ________________________________.
In conclusion, the argument for academics only applies to ________________ of society and learning practical skills has tremendous benefits. Schools should find ways to ________________ both despite ________________ from the government and parents for the ________________ of higher marks.
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Use the video below to practice your listening skills. Here are some ideas for how to practice.
[G1]Yes, technically it is ok to sit in the middle in this way – but why do it? It is very risky and there are some examiners you will get a band 5 for this possibly! Just choose a side!
[G9]Extra
sentence require for band 7+ for task achievement
[G10]There
is no opinion here – this is why it is a mistake to sit in the middle as you
did in the introduction. The introduction was fine, technically. The conclusion
is not and most examiners will lean band 5 or 6 for TA – definitely not band 7
despite all your support for your ideas.
[G11]Word count is 422 words – way too long and unrealistic so it is very difficult to mark…
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