IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: News Media Influence
Some people think that the news media has become much more influential in people’s lives today and it is a negative development. Do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Test
It is commonly held that the news has become an invasive force in people’s everyday lives. In my opinion, I completely disagree with this viewpoint because the news contributes greatly to the decision making process of discerning citizens.
Modern news media properly consumed improves its readership’s ability to make quality decisions regarding their own interests. One standout example of this is the way that people follow political issues. In democratic countries, it is difficult to argue that there is anything more important than staying informed of political developments. When Americans learned about the harmful effects of global warming on our environment they began to advocate, through the ballot box and general public sentiment, for reforms. This has led to the election and overhaul of policies related to environmental conservation and is the direct result of information gleaned from experts on the news.
Some rightly argue that the news is not always trustworthy. Individuals and organisations are always attempting to twist the news to their advantage. A good example of this would be the recent rise of online news. Online news goes up immediately and is therefore much more likely to contain mistakes than news verified and published in newspapers. Retractions in newspapers are rarely read and they are almost unheard of for online news, despite their increasing frequency. This is a decided consequence of the way people consume news today but readers can avoid this by only trusting reputable sources like The New York Times or the BBC and not naively believing every article they happen across.
In conclusion, I believe that the merits of staying informed far outweigh any perceived drawbacks. People should take the time to find reliable news sources and vet the articles most pertinent to them.
Word count: 291
Analysis
1. It is commonly held that the news has become an invasive force in people’s everyday lives. 2. In my opinion, I completely disagree with this viewpoint because the news contributes greatly to the decision making process of discerning citizens.
The first sentence is simply a restating of the topic – write it quickl to get on to the next sentence…
Which is your opinion! Be 100% clear which side you are on to get at least band 6 for task achievement.
1. Modern news media properly consumed improves its readership’s ability to make quality decisions regarding their own interests. 2. One standout example of this is the way that people follow political issues. 3. In democratic countries, it is difficult to argue that there is anything more important than staying informed of political developments. 4. When Americans learned about the harmful effects of global warming on our environment they began to advocate, through the ballot box and general public sentiment, for reforms. 5. This has led to the election and overhaul of policies related to environmental conservation and is the direct result of information gleaned from experts on the news.
My first sentence is a topic sentence with the single main idea for the whole paragraph – people can make better decisions by reading the news.
The second sentence begins an example that I will focus on for the whole paragraph. One main idea, one long example!
My third sentence further develops and makes the example a bit more specific.
The fourth sentence makes it much more specific by focusing on climate change.
My fifth sentence further develops that – be as specific as you possibly can be!
1. Some rightly argue that the news is not always trustworthy. 2. Individuals and organisations are always attempting to twist the news to their advantage. 3. A good example of this would be the recent rise of online news. 4. Online news goes up immediately and is therefore much more likely to contain mistakes than news verified and published in newspapers. 5. Retractions in newspapers are rarely read and they are almost unheard of for online news, despite their increasing frequency. 6. This is a decided consequence of the way people consume news today but readers can avoid this by only trusting reputable sources like The New York Times or the BBC and not naively believing every article they happen across.
My first sentence is another topic sentence with another main idea – news can be untrustworthy.
The second sentence explains my main idea. You might not always need this sentence.
My third sentence starts an example – race to your examples as fast as you can!
The fourth sentence develops the same example by focusing more on online news.
My fifth sentence makes it more specific by focusing on retractions.
The last sentence turns to argue against the main idea of the paragraph. I only do this because my overall opinion is that the news is good.
1. In conclusion, I believe that the merits of staying informed far outweigh any perceived drawbacks. 2. People should take the time to find reliable news sources and vet the articles most pertinent to them.
The first sentence of my conclusion summarises my opinion, just to be safe.
My final sentence gives an extra detail that you must include for band 7+ for task achievement.
Vocabulary
Try to think of a synonym or definition for the vocabulary below in bold. If you’re not sure, use the context of the sentence to guess what the words might mean.
It is commonly held that the news has become an invasive force in people’s everyday lives. In my opinion, I completely disagree with this viewpoint because the news contributes greatly to the decision making process of discerning citizens.
Modern news media properly consumed improves its readership’s ability to make quality decisionsregarding their own interests. One standout example of this is the way that people follow political issues. In democratic countries, it is difficult to argue that there is anything more important than staying informed of political developments. When Americans learned about the harmful effects of global warming on our environment they began to advocate, through the ballot box and general public sentiment, for reforms. This has led to the election and overhaul of policies related to environmental conservation and is the direct result of information gleaned from experts on the news.
Some rightly argue that the news is not always trustworthy. Individuals and organisations are always attempting to twist the news to their advantage. A good example of this would be the recent rise of online news. Online news goes up immediately and is therefore much more likely to contain mistakes than news verified and published in newspapers. Retractions in newspapers are rarely read and they are almost unheard of for online news, despite their increasing frequency. This is a decided consequence of the way people consume news today but readers can avoid this by only trusting reputable sources like The New York Times or the BBC and not naively believing every article they happen across.
In conclusion, I believe that the merits of staying informed far outweigh any perceived drawbacks. People should take the time to find reliable news sources and vet the articles most pertinent to them.
Answers
It is commonly held that main believe
invasive force negative power
viewpoint opinion
contributes greatly adds to
decision making process how choices are made
discerning citizens intelligent, skeptical people
properly consumed read in the right way
quality decisionsregarding good choices pertaining to
own interests what is important for them
democratic countries that elect their government representatives
staying informed being knowledgeable about
political developments events in politics
harmful effects negative impact
advocate push for/support
ballot box where people vote/elections
general public sentiment what the public feels
reforms changes
overhaul of policies reforming laws
environmental conservation protecting the environment
direct result clear consequence of
gleaned learned from
rightly argue correctly believe
trustworthy can be trusted, reliable
twist lie about
recent rise recent increase
verified checked to be accurate
retractions taking back what was written
unheard of not common
frequency how common they are
decided consequence clear result
reputable trustworthy
naively innocently
happen across find randomly
merits positive parts
perceived drawbacks what people think are the negatives
_______________________ the news has become an _______________________ in people’s everyday lives. In my opinion, I completely disagree with this _______________________ because the news _______________________ to the _______________________ of _______________________.
Modern news media _______________________ improves its readership’s ability to make _______________________ their _______________________. One standout example of this is the way that people follow political issues. In _______________________ countries, it is difficult to argue that there is anything more important than _______________________ of _______________________. When Americans learned about the _______________________ of global warming on our environment they began to _______________________, through the _______________________ and _______________________, for _______________________ . This has led to the election and _______________________ related to _______________________ and is the _______________________ of information _______________________ from experts on the news.
Some _______________________ that the news is not always _______________________. Individuals and organisations are always attempting to _______________________ the news to their advantage. A good example of this would be the _______________________ of online news. Online news goes up immediately and is therefore much more likely to contain mistakes than news _______________________ and published in newspapers. _______________________ in newspapers are rarely read and they are almost _______________________ for online news, despite their increasing _______________________. This is a _______________________ of the way people consume news today but readers can avoid this by only trusting _______________________ sources like The New York Times or the BBC and not _______________________ believing every article they _______________________.
In conclusion, I believe that the _______________________ of staying informed far outweigh any _______________________. People should take the time to find _______________________ news sources and vet the articles most _______________________ to them.
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Dave
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: Stress
Many pschologists recommend that the best way to relieve stress is to do nothing at all for a period of time during the day.
Do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Tests
One of the most pressing issues for first world countries is how to reduce their stress levels and this has led some psychologists to propose a daily period of rest. Although I think that daily rest would be helpful, it is more important to take an active role in stress relief.
Proponents of a rest period suggest that taking a break has proven health benefits related to stress reduction. It is very common in Latin American countries and some Southeast Asian countries to take an afternoon ‘siesta’ or short nap before resuming work. Research has supported the myriad health benefits related to this stress-free period. It lowers blood pressure, increases serotonin in the brain, and aids memory function. Besides the statistics from studies that breaks reduce stress, there is also anecdotal evidence that taking a break energises people in both the short and long term. Plowing on without breaks, on the contrary, can lead to an increase in stress and has been linked to related health problems.
Instead of taking a rest, I believe that joining a team sport will do more to relieve stress. Doctors and scientists agree that exercise is the best way to cut down on stress overall. In most parts of the world, football is the most common sport both to watch and participate in. Playing football reduces your stress by releasing endorphins in the brain that make people happier, strengthening the heart to better withstand stressful situations, and helping people to relax by working in a team towards a shared goal. The teamwork aspect cannot be underestimated, and is integral to most sports, as it does more to reduce stress and reset your body for a new day than any other activity.
To conclude, although taking a rest certainly helps reduce stress, the best way to unwind is to play a sport. People should set aside time at least once a week to partake in team sporting activities.
Analysis
1. One of the most pressing issues for first world countries is how to reduce their stress levels and this has led some psychologists to propose a daily period of rest. 2. Although I think that daily rest would be helpful, it is more important to take an active role in stress relief.
The first sentence restates/paraphrases the main topic for the essay. Don’t spend a lot of time on this – write it quikly and get going!
The second sentence gives my opinion – be clear and choose a side!
1. Proponents of a rest period suggest that taking a break has proven health benefits related to stress reduction. 2. It is very common in Latin American countries and some Southeast Asian countries to take an afternoon ‘siesta’ or short nap before resuming work. 3. Research has supported the myriad health benefits related to this stress-free period. 4. It lowers blood pressure, increases serotonin in the brain, and aids memory function. 5. Besides the statistics from studies that breaks reduce stress, there is also anecdotal evidence that taking a break energises people in both the short and long term. 6. Plowing on without breaks, on the contrary, can lead to an increase in stress and has been linked to related health problems.
The first sentence is a topic sentence giving the main idea for the whole paragraph – health benefits related to stress.
My second sentence begins a specific example. Try to be as specific as possible.
The third sentence continues to support the same main idea with research.
The fourth sentence gives specific examples of the parts of the brain impacted by taking a break.
My fifth sentence further supports the same main idea.
The last sentence concludes the paragraph by using a counter-point to again support my main idea. Focus on 1 main idea, fully developed!
1. Instead of taking a rest, I believe that joining a team sport will do more to relieve stress. 2. Doctors and scientists agree that exercise is the best way to cut down on stress overall. 3. In most parts of the world, football is the most common sport both to watch and participate in. 4. Playing football reduces your stress by releasing endorphins in the brain that make people happier, strengthening the heart to better withstand stressful situations, and helping people to relax by working in a team towards a shared goal. 5. The teamwork aspect cannot be underestimated, and is integral to most sports, as it does more to reduce stress and reset your body for a new day than any other activity.
The first sentence of the second paragraph is also a topic sentence with my main idea – doing a sport does more to reduce stress overall. Notice that I keep my opinion weak – it has a greater overall impact.
My second sentence begins my support for this main idea.
The third sentence focuses on the very specific example of football.
My next sentence details the specific ways that football reduces stress – be as specific as possible.
The final sentence adds more support for the same main idea – sports do more to help reduce stress.
1. To conclude, although taking a rest certainly helps reduce stress, the best way to unwind is to play a sport. 2. People should set aside time at least once a week to partake in team sporting activities.
The first sentence of my conclusion restates my opinion – make sure that you have a clear, overall opinion!
My final sentence gives an extended detail that most examiners require for band 7+ for task achievement. Read more about it here.
Vocabulary
Try to figure out what the words in bold mean below or think of a synonym for each one, then check your answers in the answer key:
One of the most pressing issues for first world countries is how to reduce their stress levels and this has led some psychologists to propose a daily period of rest. Although I think that daily rest would be helpful, it is more important to take an active role in stress relief.
Proponents of a rest period suggest that taking a break has proven health benefits related to stress reduction. It is very common in Latin American countries and some Southeast Asian countries to take an afternoon ‘siesta‘ or short nap before resuming work. Research has supported the myriad health benefits related to this stress-free period. It lowers blood pressure, increases serotonin in the brain, and aids memory function. Besides the statistics from studies that breaks reduce stress, there is also anecdotal evidence that taking a break energises people in both the short and long term. Plowing on without breaks, on the contrary, can lead to an increase in stress and has been linked to related health problems.
Instead of taking a rest, I believe that joining a team sport will do more to relieve stress. Doctors and scientists agree that exercise is the best way to cut down on stress overall. In most parts of the world, football is the most common sport both to watch and participate in. Playing football reduces your stress by releasing endorphins in the brain that make people happier, strengthening the heart to better withstand stressful situations, and helping people to relax by working in a team towards a shared goal. The teamwork aspect cannot be underestimated, and is integral to most sports, as it does more to reduce stress and reset your body for a new day than any other activity.
To conclude, although taking a rest certainly helps reduce stress, the best way to unwind is to play a sport. People should set aside time at least once a week to partake in team sporting activities.
Answers:
pressing issues important problems
first world countries rich, developed countries
reduce their stress lessen anxiety
propose suggest
active role more proactive about
stress relief reducing stress
proponents supporters
siesta break
resuming work getting back to work
myriad health benefits many ways it is good for health
lowers blood pressure good for your heart
serotonin a chemical in the brain
aids memory function helps you remember better
statistics figures/facts
anecdotal hearsay
energises gives energy to
plowing on without breaks continuing to work without stopping
One of the most ____________________ for ____________________ is how to ____________________ and this has led some psychologists to ____________________ a daily period of rest. Although I think that daily rest would be helpful, it is more important to take an ____________________ in ____________________.
____________________ of a rest period suggest that taking a break has proven health benefits related to stress reduction. It is very common in Latin American countries and some Southeast Asian countries to take an afternoon ‘ ____________________‘ or short nap before ____________________. Research has supported the ____________________ related to this stress-free period. It ____________________, increases ____________________ in the brain, and ____________________. Besides the ____________________ from studies that breaks reduce stress, there is also ____________________ evidence that taking a break ____________________ people in both the short and long term. ____________________, on the contrary, can lead to an increase in stress and has been linked to related health problems.
Instead of taking a rest, I believe that joining a team sport will do more to relieve stress. Doctors and scientists agree that exercise is the best way to ____________________ stress overall. In most parts of the world, football is the most common sport both to watch and ____________________. Playing football reduces your stress by ____________________ in the brain that make people happier, ____________________ the heart to better ____________________ stressful situations, and helping people to relax by working in a team towards a ____________________. The teamwork aspect cannot be ____________________, and is ____________________ to most sports, as it does more to reduce stress and ____________________ for a new day than any other activity.
To conclude, although taking a rest certainly helps reduce stress, the best way to ____________________ is to play a sport. People should ____________________ at least once a week to ____________________ in team sporting activities.
This is an IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer from the real IELTS exam focused on the topic of the internet and travel.
This is an agree/disagree questions so you have a few options.
Agree and support your opinion in both paragraphs.
Disagree and support that opinion in both paragraphs.
Agree in one paragraph and disagree in the other.
But…
If you choose the last option – make 100% sure that you give a clear opinion.
To learn more about how you should handle these questions and do practice until you feel confident on the test you can sign up here for my online lessons:
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: The Internet & Travel (Real IELTS)
People today often use the internet to learn about the culture of other countries. This means that it is not that important to travel to those countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Tests
The fact that many people today use the internet to experience other countries means that it is no longer as important to actually travel to those nations. In my opinion, though travel has its benefits, this is largely true.
Proponents of travel often claim that real life experience trumps virtual experience. Compare, for instance, the recent Google Museum project which catalogues collections from famous museums in high resolution photos available to anyone with internet access. This is no doubt a positive development but it pales in comparison to the experience of walking through the Louvre and seeing the brushstrokes up close, going on a guided tour, and talking with other museum-goers. This holds true for a variety of experiences that are enhanced by being physically present in the moment.
Although there are good reasons to continue to travel on
occasion, the internet allows people to access the majority of the experience
remotely. The most salient example of this is the ubiquity of YouTube for
internet users around the world. A child from an impoverished background, who
still has internet access, probably cannot travel to other countries but they
can watch travel documentaries, vlogs, and archived television shows that show
cultures around the world. The makers of these videos not only bring their
experience but also aggregate the most noteworthy events and individuals that
even the most adventurous traveller would have difficulty finding the time to
locate.
To conclude, travelling still plays a role in life but the
internet has largely replaced its primary importance in life. There will come a
time when the virtual world too fully overcomes the physical but for the moment
it is still beneficial.
Word Count: 280
Analysis
1. The fact that many people today use the internet to experience other countries means that it is no longer as important to actually travel to those nations. 2. In my opinion, though travel has its benefits, this is largely true.
My first sentence simply states the topic for the essy – don’t waste time trying to make it perfect because other sentences are more important!
The second sentence gives my opinion. Be clear – don’t choose both sides!
1. Proponents of travel often claim that real life experience trumps virtual experience. 2. Compare, for instance, the recent Google Museum project which catalogues collections from famous museums in high resolution photos available to anyone with internet access. 3. This is no doubt a positive development but it pales in comparison to the experience of walking through the Louvre and seeing the brushstrokes up close, going on a guided tour, and talking with other museum-goers. 4. This holds true for a variety of experiences that are enhanced by being physically present in the moment.
My first sentence is a topic sentence with the main idea for the showl paragraph – real life experience is better.
The second sentence begins my example using a specific website – be as specific as possible!
My next sentence continues to develop my museum example and mentions another specific museum.
The last sentence generalises this to other experiences besides museums.
1. Although there are good reasons to continue to travel on occasion, the internet allows people to access the majority of the experience remotely. 2. The most salient example of this is the ubiquity of YouTube for internet users around the world. 3. A child from an impoverished background, who still has internet access, probably cannot travel to other countries but they can watch travel documentaries, vlogs, and archived television shows that show cultures around the world. 4. The makers of these videos not only bring their experience but also aggregate the most noteworthy events and individuals that even the most adventurous traveller would have difficulty finding the time to locate.
The first sentence gives my main idea for this paragraph – accessing an experience remotely is almost as good.
I start my example right away in the second sentence – don’t waste any time before you get to your examples!
My third sentnence continues to develop my main idea with a hypothetical example.
I conclude the paragraph by adding further detail to the reasons why expereincing travel online is as good as in real life.
1. To conclude, travelling still plays a role in life but the internet has largely replaced its primary importance in life. 2. There will come a time when the virtual world too fully overcomes the physical but for the moment it is still beneficial.
The first sentence of the conclusion repeats my opinion clearly.
My last sentence adds an extra detail that many examiners require for band 7+.
Vocabulary
Try to write a definition or synonym for the vocabulary in bold below:
The fact that many people today use the internet to experience other countries means that it is no longer as important to actually travel to those nations. In my opinion, though travel has its benefits, this is largely true.
Proponents of travel often claim that real life experience trumps virtual experience. Compare, for instance, the recent Google Museum project which catalogues collections from famous museums in high resolution photos available to anyone with internet access. This is no doubt a positive development but it pales in comparison to the experience of walking through the Louvre and seeing the brushstrokes up close, going on a guided tour, and talking with other museum-goers. This holds true for a variety of experiences that are enhanced by being physically present in the moment.
Although there are good reasons to continue to travel on occasion, the internet allows people to access the majority of the experience remotely. The most salient example of this is the ubiquity of YouTube for internet users around the world. A child from an impoverished background, who still has internet access, probably cannot travel to other countries but they can watch travel documentaries, vlogs, and archived television shows that show cultures around the world. The makers of these videos not only bring their experience but also aggregate the most noteworthy events and individuals that even the most adventurous traveller would have difficulty finding the time to locate.
To conclude, travelling still plays a role in life but the internet has largely replaced its primary importance in life. There will come a time when the virtual world too fully overcomes the physical but for the moment it is still beneficial.
Answers
no longer as important less relevant
actually in fact
largely mostly
proponents supporters
trumps invalidates
catalogues records
high resolution photos good photos
internet access ability to use the internet
no doubt definitely
pales in comparison to is not as good as
brushstrokes the physical marks from the artist’s paintbrush
The fact that many people today use the internet to experience other countries means that it is ___________________ to ___________________ travel to those nations. In my opinion, though travel has its benefits, this is ___________________ true.
___________________ of travel often claim that real life experience ___________________ virtual experience. Compare, for instance, the recent Google Museum project which ___________________ collections from famous museums in ___________________ available to anyone with ___________________. This is ___________________ a positive development but it ___________________ the experience of walking through the Louvre and seeing the ___________________ up close, going on a ___________________, and talking with other ___________________. This ___________________ for a variety of experiences that are ___________________ by being physically present in the moment.
Although there are good reasons to continue to travel ___________________, the internet allows people to access the majority of the experience ___________________. The ___________________ of this is the ___________________ of YouTube for internet users around the world. A child from an ___________________ background, who still has internet access, probably cannot travel to other countries but they can watch travel documentaries, ___________________, and ___________________ that show cultures around the world. The ___________________ of these videos not only bring their experience but also ___________________ the most ___________________ events and individuals that even the most ___________________ would have difficulty ___________________ to locate.
To conclude, travelling still ___________________ in life but the internet has largely replaced its primary importance in life. There will come a time when the virtual world too fully ___________________ the physical but for the moment it is still ___________________.
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Watch the first 3 minutes of the clip below and answer the questions:
What is his main reason for travelling to Thailand?
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer on the topic of education and crime.
It came up on the real IELTS exam recently but these are also topics (crime, education) that come up all the time on listening, reading, writing, and speaking.
It is very useful for you to practice and learn about the topics and vocabulary for when you take IELTS.
Read on for my answer, analysis, vocabulary practice and more!
The most common solution for criminal behaviour is prison but many believe education is a better method.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Real Past IELTS Tests
Many feel that instead of locking up criminals, we could better reduce crime by tackling systemic problems in our educational systems. In my opinion, although education is important, deterrence remains the primary inhibitor of criminality.
Many see education as a better remedy as it holds long-term promise. The main cause of crime is poverty and that can be linked directly to education. Take for example countries with strong educational systems. In Singapore, which has one of the most well-regarded school systems in the world, the majority of graduates can find well paid jobs and the crime rate is consequently among the lowest globally. There is no cause to commit a crime if you have enough money to provide for yourself and your family.
Despite the clear results education can bring about, deterrence remains the main reason why people do not commit crimes. If there was no threat of prison, people would feel free to steal, murder or commit whatever crime they choose. A good example of the effect of prison on crime is in countries with strict, mandatory sentencing guidelines. Many Southeast Asian countries have imposed severe sentences on drug related crimes to successfully curb drug trafficking and distribution. There is no substitute for the clearcut logic engendered by the threat of prison.
To sum up, despite the admitted benefits of education, the deterring effect of prison prevents most crime. Countries ought to invest in sustainable solutions such as education and economic reform while not neglecting the irreplaceable role of incarceration.
Sample Answer Analysis
1. Many feel that instead of locking up criminals, we could better reduce crime by tackling systemic problems in our educational systems. 2. In my opinion, although education is important, deterrence remains the primary inhibitor of criminality.
The first sentence of your essay should simply restate what the general topic is.
My second sentence gives my opinion – make your opinion totally clear or you will get band 5 for task achievement automatically.
1. Many see education as a better remedy as it holds long-term promise. 2. The main cause of crime is poverty and that can be linked directly to education. 3. Take for example countries with strong educational systems. 4. In Singapore, which has one of the most well-regarded school systems in the world, the majority of graduates can find well paid jobs and the crime rate is consequently among the lowest globally. 5. There is no cause to commit a crime if you have enough money to provide for yourself and your family.
My first sentence is a topic sentence with my main idea for tha paragraph: education has long-term progress. Stick to 1 main idea so that you can develop it fully.
The next sentence begins to develop this main idea.
My third sentence begins my example. Try to make your examples as specific as possible: a real person, country, etc.
The fourth sentence continues my example by making it even more specific and detailed.
My fifth sentence concludes the paragraph by reiterating the link between lack of education and crime.
1. Despite the clear results education can bring about, deterrence remains the main reason why people do not commit crimes. 2. If there was no threat of prison, people would feel free to steal, murder or commit whatever crime they choose. 3. A good example of the effect of prison on crime is in countries with strict, mandatory sentencing guidelines. 4. Many Southeast Asian countries have imposed severe sentences on drug related crimes to successfully curb drug trafficking and distribution. 5. There is no substitute for the clearcut logic engendered by the threat of prison.
My first sentence is another topic sentence with the main idea for this paragraph which is that prison deters people from committing crimes.
The next sentence explains my main idea.
My third sentence starts another example – make your examples the centerpiece of your paragraph!
The fourth sentence develops the example by describing Southeast Asian countries.
My fifth sentence finishes the paragraph by repeating why I think deterrence is more important than education.
1. To sum up, despite the admitted benefits of education, the deterring effect of prison prevents most crime. 2. Countries ought to invest in sustainable solutions such as education and economic reform while not neglecting the irreplaceable role of incarceration.
The first sentence of my conlusion simple repeats my opinion.
My last sentence adds an extra, extended detail that examiners will typically require for band 7+ for task achievement.
Vocabulary
Try to figure out the words in bold from the context of the sentence. Write down a definition or synonym for each.
Many feel that instead of locking up criminals, we could better reduce crime by tackling systemic problems in our educational systems. In my opinion, although education is important, deterrence remains the primary inhibitor of criminality.
Many see education as a better remedy as it holds long-term promise. The main cause of crime is poverty and that can be linked directly to education. Take for example countries with strong educational systems. In Singapore, which has one of the most well-regarded school systems in the world, the majority of graduates can find well paid jobs and the crime rate is consequently among the lowest globally. There is no cause to commit a crime if you have enough money to provide for yourself and your family.
Despite the clear results education can bring about, deterrence remains the main reason why people do not commit crimes. If there was no threat of prison, people would feel free to steal, murder or commit whatever crime they choose. A good example of the effect of prison on crime is in countries with strict, mandatory sentencing guidelines. Many Southeast Asian countries have imposed severe sentences on drug related crimes to successfully curb drug trafficking and distribution. There is no substitute for the clearcut logic engendered by the threat of prison.
To sum up, despite the admitted benefits of education, the deterring effect of prison prevents most crime. Countries ought to invest in sustainable solutions such as education and economic reform while not neglecting the irreplaceable role of incarceration.
Answers
locking up: incarcerate
tackling systemic problems: dealing with institutational issues
deterrence dissuade
inhibitor deterring factor
criminality crime
better remedy superior solution
holds long-term promise will have an impact in the future
linked directly stems from
well-regarded school systems good schools
well paid jobs good jobs
crime rate the level of crime
consequently as a result
commit a crime take part in a crime
provide for support
clear results definite outcomes
bring about cause
threat danger
strict harsh
mandatory sentencing guidelines rules for prison terms
imposed severe sentences hand out long prison sentences
curb drug trafficking slow down the transport of drugs
Many feel that instead of ________________ criminals, we could better reduce crime by ________________ in our educational systems. In my opinion, although education is important, ________________ remains the primary ________________ of ________________.
Many see education as a ________________ as it ________________. The main cause of crime is poverty and that can be ________________ to education. Take for example countries with strong educational systems. In Singapore, which has one of the most________________ in the world, the majority of graduates can find ________________ and the is ________________ among the lowest globally. There is no cause to ________________ if you have enough money to ________________ yourself and your family.
Despite the ________________ education can ________________, deterrence remains the main reason why people do not commit crimes. If there was no ________________ of prison, people would feel free to steal, murder or commit whatever crime they choose. A good example of the effect of prison on crime is in countries with ________________, ________________. Many Southeast Asian countries have ________________ on drug related crimes to successfully ________________________________ and ________________ . the ________________ by the threat of prison.
To sum up, despite the ________________ benefits of education, the deterring effect of prison prevents most crime. Countries ought to invest in ________________ such as education and ________________ while not ________________ the ________________ of ________________ .
Listen and check:
Listening Practice
Review the ideas and vocabulary above with this video. To improve your listening you can use the tips here.
Reading Practice
Read the article below to review the vocabulary and ideas from my sample answer. Here are some ideas for activities when your read the article below.
The recent questions from the IELTS writing task 2 exam are here, task 1 is here and the speaking questions and topics are here.
Dave
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Answer: The Ideal/Perfect Society
People have historically attempted to achieve a perfect society. However, it is difficult to decide what a perfect society would be like. What would be the most important element of an ideal society? What can normal people do to make society more perfect?
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The best way to improve our society is a topic of understandable concern for all governments and citizens. In my opinion, the key to this is increased tolerance of difference and people can take the individual step of examining their own beliefs in order to not pass ingrained prejudices on to the next generation.
The most momentous shifts in society in the last centuries have involved progress related to tolerance of different types of people. The original pilgrims left England to found new colonies in order to have religious freedom to worship as they wish. Racism and slavery in the 19th century is a direct result of considering one group of people separate. The most recent example is the movement to be more accepting of a variety of sexualities. These have all made society more perfect and their evolution and nascent spread throughout the world will allow the greatest number of people to enjoy a full range of freedom and opportunity.
To achieve the more open society mentioned above, individuals can closely evaluate their beliefs and try to impart more tolerant values to the younger generation. A good example of this can be seen in the embrace of gay marriage by many in the last decade. In the 20th century, it was political suicide to support gay marriage. However, people began to question the rationale for denying this basic human right. Now most schools and parents teach their children about alternative lifestyles and it is much more common to see LGBT couples in popular culture. This is one step towards a utopian, inclusive society free of prejudice.
In conclusion, the movement to accept more diverse elements of society is already underway. With continued effort, it is reasonable to expect a generally positive attitude towards all people in the coming years, though this progressivism will vary widely from country to country.
Word Count: 310
Analysis
1. The best way to improve our society is a topic of understandable concern for all governments and citizens. 2. In my opinion, the key to this is increased tolerance of difference and people can take the individual step of examining their own beliefs in order to not pass ingrained prejudices on to the next generation.
The first sentence of my introduction is just restating the topic – keep it simple!
My second sentence is more important because it contains my opinion. Make your opinion 100% clear!
1. The most momentous shifts in society in the last centuries have involved progress related to tolerance of different types of people. 2. The original pilgrims left England to found new colonies in order to have religious freedom to worship as they wish. 3. Racism and slavery in the 19th century is a direct result of considering one group of people separate. 4. The most recent example is the movement to be more accepting of a variety of sexualities. 5. These have all made society more perfect and their evolution and nascent spread throughout the world will allow the greatest number of people to enjoy a full range of freedom and opportunity.
The first sentence is a topic sentence with my main idea for that paragraph – tolerance.
My second sentence begins my example – don’t waste any time getting to your example.
The third sentence further develops my main idea with a related example.
Next I continue by giving a modern day example.
Finally I conclude the paragraph by saying that tolerance has evolved over time and is the key to a good society.
1. To achieve the more open society mentioned above, individuals can closely evaluate their beliefs and try to impart more tolerant values to the younger generation. 2. A good example of this can be seen in the embrace of gay marriage by many in the last decade. 3. In the 20th century, it was political suicide to support gay marriage. 4. However, people began to question the rationale for denying this basic human right. 5. Now most schools and parents teach their children about alternative lifestyles and it is much more common to see LGBT couples in popular culture. 6. This is one step towards a utopian, inclusive society free of prejudice.
My first sentence is another topic sentence with my new main idea – people can change themselves to be more tolerant.
The second sentence begins my example.
For this paragraph I develop one example fully. In this sentence I give the background related to gay marriage.
My fourth sentence develops my example further.
The fifth sentence also develops the same example – the more you develop, the higher your task achievement score will be!
My fifth sentence concludes how this could have an impact on the perfect society.
1. In conclusion, the movement to accept more diverse elements of society is already underway. 2. With continued effort, it is reasonable to expect a generally positive attitude towards all people in the coming years, though this progressivism will vary widely from country to country.
My conclusion begins by repeating my opinion (and making it completely clear).
The last sentence is an extra related detail that a lot of examiners will look for to give you band 7+ for task achievement.
Vocabulary
The best way to improve our society is a topic of understandable concern for all governments and citizens. In my opinion, the key to this is increased tolerance of difference and people can take the individual step ofexamining their own beliefs in order to not pass ingrained prejudices on to the next generation.
The most momentous shifts in society in the last centuries have involved progress related to tolerance of different types of people. The original pilgrims left England to found new colonies in order to have religious freedom to worship as they wish. Racism and slavery in the 19th century is a direct result of considering one group of people separate. The most recent example is the movement to be more accepting of a variety of sexualities. These have all made society more perfect and their evolution and nascent spread throughout the world will allow the greatest number of people to enjoy a full range of freedom and opportunity.
To achieve the more open society mentioned above, individuals can closely evaluate their beliefs and try to impart more tolerant values to the younger generation. A good example of this can be seen in the embrace of gay marriage by many in the last decade. In the 20th century, it was political suicide to support gay marriage. However, people began to question the rationale for denying this basic human right. Now most schools and parents teach their children about alternative lifestyles and it is much more common to see LGBT couples in popular culture. This is one step towards a utopian, inclusive society free of prejudice.
In conclusion, the movement to accept more diverse elements of society is already underway. With continued effort, it is reasonable to expect a generally positive attitude towards all people in the coming years, though this progressivism will vary widely from country to country.
Answers
understandable concern: good reason to worry increased tolerance of difference: inclusiveness take the individual step of: personally can examining their own beliefs: being self-critical pass ingrained prejudices on: breed racist beliefs momentous shifts: changes in thinking original pilgrims: first settlers found new colonies: start new states religious freedom: ability to worship as you wish worship: pray to direct result: main effect considering: regarding movement: swell of support for accepting: allowing for sexualities: different sexual orientations more perfect: better nascent spread: beginning to spread full range: variety of open society: inclusive society closely evaluate: watch intently impart: teach tolerant values: allowing for difference embrace: acceptance political suicide: ruin your political career question the rationale: dispute the reasoning denying this basic human right: not allowing a fundamental right alternative lifestyles: different ways of living LGBT couples: lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transsexual popular culture: movies, tv, books, etc. one step: one solution utopian: perfect inclusive society free of prejudice: ideal society diverse elements: different parts already underway: incipient continued effort: keep going reasonable: logical expect: hope for generally positive attitude: friendly outlook progressivism: liberalism vary widely: major differences
The best way to improve our society is a topic of understandable concern for all governments and citizens. In my opinion, the key to this is increased tolerance of difference and people can take the individual step ofexamining their own beliefs in order to not pass ingrained prejudices on to the next generation.
The most momentous shifts in society in the last centuries have involved progress related to tolerance of different types of people. The original pilgrims left England to found new colonies in order to have religious freedom to worship as they wish. Racism and slavery in the 19th century is a direct result of considering one group of people separate. The most recent example is the movement to be more accepting of a variety of sexualities. These have all made society more perfect and their evolution and nascent spread throughout the world will allow the greatest number of people to enjoy a full range of freedom and opportunity.
To achieve the more open society mentioned above, individuals can closely evaluate their beliefs and try to impart more tolerant values to the younger generation. A good example of this can be seen in the embrace of gay marriage by many in the last decade. In the 20th century, it was political suicide to support gay marriage. However, people began to question the rationale for denying this basic human right. Now most schools and parents teach their children about alternative lifestyles and it is much more common to see LGBT couples in popular culture. This is one step towards a utopian, inclusive society free of prejudice.
In conclusion, the movement to accept more diverse elements of society is already underway. With continued effort, it is reasonable to expect a generally positive attitude towards all people in the coming years, though this progressivism will vary widely from country to country.
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