This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of standard of living from the real IELTS exam.
I write the essays on my blog for free for all students. If you want to support me to keep making materials, sign up for my full, exclusive IELTS EBooks here:
Nowadays, most countries can improve the standard of living through economic development, but some social values are lost as a result.
Do you think the advantages of this phenomenon outweigh the disadvantages?
The pursuit of economic progress often comes at the expense of certain social values. In my opinion, though economic development undeniably engenders numerous benefits, it is key to prioritize tradition.
There are several undeniable advantages to flourishing economic conditions. Firstly, it creates job opportunities and improves the employment rate, leading to reduced poverty levels and enhanced living standards. For example, in countries like China and India, rapid economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty through industries such as manufacturing and tourism services. Economic growth results in increased tax revenue, which can be allocated towards public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. In developing nations, these improvements create a sustainable cycle that can lead to improved overall societal well-being.
However, economic prioritization can sometimes harm social values. In the race for rapid growth, societies may witness a decline in traditions, cultural heritage, and community cohesion. For instance, the rise of consumerism and material wealth in marginalized communities such as on Native American reservations in the United States often leads to the erosion of cultural practices and traditions as people value material possessions over cultural preservation. Additionally, the focus on personal success and material gain may overshadow the importance of human relationships, leading to a decline in social interaction and a rise in individualistic attitudes. This ultimately widens economic inequalities as certain groups benefit disproportionately from development, exacerbating social divisions and creating social unrest.
In conclusion, although economic development is undoubtedly advantageous, it is crucial to recognize that social values are more important. Governments and societies must take proactive measures to balance economic growth and the preservation of cultural heritage, community values, and social well-being.
Analysis
1. The pursuit of economic progress often comes at the expense of certain social values. 2. In my opinion, though economic development undeniably engenders numerous benefits, it is key to prioritize tradition.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. There are several undeniable advantages to flourishing economic conditions. 2. Firstly, it creates job opportunities and improves the employment rate, leading to reduced poverty levels and enhanced living standards. 3. For example, in countries like China and India, rapid economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty through industries such as manufacturing and tourism services. 4. Economic growth results in increased tax revenue, which can be allocated towards public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. 5. In developing nations, these improvements create a sustainable cycle that can lead to improved overall societal well-being.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Use specific examples.
1. However, economic prioritization can sometimes harm social values. 2. In the race for rapid growth, societies may witness a decline in traditions, cultural heritage, and community cohesion. 3. For instance, the rise of consumerism and material wealth in marginalized communities such as on Native American reservations in the United States often leads to the erosion of cultural practices and traditions as people value material possessions over cultural preservation. 4. Additionally, the focus on personal success and material gain may overshadow the importance of human relationships, leading to a decline in social interaction and a rise in individualistic attitudes. 5. This ultimately widens economic inequalities as certain groups benefit disproportionately from development, exacerbating social divisions and creating social unrest.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Finish the paragraph strong.
1. In conclusion, although economic development is undoubtedly advantageous, it is crucial to recognize that social values are more important. 2. Governments and societies must take proactive measures to balance economic growth and the preservation of cultural heritage, community values, and social well-being.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The pursuit of economic progress often comes at the expense of certain social values. In my opinion, though economic development undeniably engenders numerous benefits, it is key to prioritize tradition.
There are several undeniable advantages toflourishing economic conditions. Firstly, it creates job opportunities and improves the employment rate, leading to reduced poverty levels and enhanced living standards. For example, in countries like China and India, rapid economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty through industries such as manufacturing and tourism services. Economic growth results in increased tax revenue, which can be allocated towards public services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. In developing nations, these improvements create a sustainable cycle that can lead to improved overall societal well-being.
However, economic prioritization can sometimes harm social values. In the race for rapid growth, societies may witness a decline in traditions, cultural heritage, and community cohesion. For instance, the rise of consumerism and material wealth in marginalized communities such as on Native American reservations in the United States often leads to the erosion of cultural practices and traditions as people value material possessions over cultural preservation. Additionally, the focus on personal success and material gain may overshadow the importance of human relationships, leading to a decline in social interaction and a rise in individualistic attitudes. This ultimately widens economic inequalities as certain groups benefit disproportionately from development, exacerbating social divisions and creating social unrest.
In conclusion, although economic development is undoubtedly advantageous, it is crucial to recognize that social values are more important. Governments and societies must take proactive measures to balance economic growth and the preservation of cultural heritage, community values, and social well-being.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
The pursuit of economic progress The search for economic prosperity
comes at the expense of certain social values Involves sacrificing certain societal ideals
economic development undeniably engenders numerous benefits Economic advancement unquestionably brings forth many benefits
key Vital
prioritize tradition Give priority to customs
several undeniable advantages toflourishing economic conditions Numerous indisputable benefits of thriving economic circumstances
creates job opportunities Provides work opportunities
improves the employment rate Boosts employment figures
leading to reduced poverty levels and enhanced living standards Bringing about lower levels of poverty and elevated living standards
rapid economic growth has lifted millions out of poverty Quick economic development has uplifted millions by alleviating poverty
industries Economic sectors
manufacturing Production
increased tax revenue Greater tax earnings
allocated towards public services Assigned to community services
healthcare Medical care
infrastructure development Construction of infrastructure
improvements Enhancements
sustainable cycle Long-term cycle
lead to improved overall societal well-being Result in enhanced societal welfare
prioritization Preference
harm Adversely affect
In the race for rapid growth Experience a weakening of traditional practices
witness a decline in traditions Ancestral customs
cultural heritage Social unity
community cohesion Solidarity among community members
consumerism Wanting to buy things
material wealth Money
Native American reservations Tribal lands
erosion Deterioration
cultural practices Rituals
value material possessions over cultural preservation Emphasize the importance of material belongings over the preservation of culture
Additionally Furthermore
focus on personal success Prioritize personal accomplishments
material gain Acquisition of wealth
overshadow the importance of human relationships Diminish the significance of interpersonal connections
individualistic attitudes Self-centered mindsets
ultimately widens economic inequalities In the end exacerbates economic disparities
certain groups benefit disproportionately from development Specific demographics gain disproportionately from progress
exacerbating social divisions Worsening social disparities
creating social unrest Provoking social turmoil
undoubtedly Certainly
crucial Essential
recognize Acknowledge
take proactive measures Preemptive actions
balance Equal
preservation of cultural heritage Conservation of cultural legacy
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
T________________________________s often c___________________________________s. In my opinion, though e_________________________________________________________s, it is k___y to p____________n.
There are s_______________________________________________________________________s. Firstly, it c____________________________s and i_____________________e, l___________________________________________________________s. For example, in countries like China and India, r________________________________________________y through i__________s such as m_________g and tourism services. Economic growth results in i________________e, which can be a_______________________s such as h_________e, education, and i______________________________t. In developing nations, these i_______________s create a s__________________e that can l______________________________________g.
However, economic p__________________n can sometimes h____m social values. I_____________________________h, societies may w___________________________s, c____________________e, and c____________________n. For instance, the rise of c_____________________m and m_______________h in marginalized communities such as on N___________________________s in the United States often leads to the e_________n of c__________________s and traditions as people v_____________________________________________n. A_____________y, the f_____________________s and m____________n may o_________________________________________s, leading to a decline in social interaction and a rise in i_____________________________s. This u_______________________________________s as c_________________________________________________t, e_____________________________s and c____________________________t.
In conclusion, although economic development is u____________y advantageous, it is c_______l to r_________e that social values are more important. Governments and societies must t_______________________s to b_________e economic growth and the p______________________________e, c_____________________________s, and s______________________g.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Many individuals eat less meat compared to previous generations as there is clear evidence it may not be nutritious. In my opinion, although meat is often eaten in unhealthy contexts, it is generally healthy if prepared correctly.
Those who argue that meat is inherently unhealthy point out modern insights into nutrition. Many meats, most infamously red meats such as pork and beef, contain fats that can build up and contribute to the leading cause of death globally: cardiovascular disease. Added to this is the fact that meaty dishes are often saturated with heavy carbohydrates, salt, sugar, and other unhealthy fats like butter. One standout example of this would be the cheeseburger, one of the most eaten meal items globally. Not only is the red meat bad for heart health but the buns, cheese, and potentially other toppings only hinder short and long-term nutritional goals.
However, meat on its own is crucial due to high protein levels. Many vegetarians and vegans would argue that protein can be sourced from a variety of nutritious and vitamin-dense nuts and vegetables. Though there is some truth in this, the levels of protein in other foods are low and there are certain essential compounds that can only be found in meat. The best evidence for this comes not only from nutritional studies but also human prehistory. For thousands of years, people have been subsisting on diets high in meat that have greatly contributed to the flourishing of the human race generally and civilization more specifically. Consumed without unhealthy ingredients, there is simply no greater source of energy for the average person.
In conclusion, though many meat dishes are high in fat, salt, sugar, and carbohydrates, meat itself is an excellent and healthy source of protein that has historically been a part of the human diet. Individuals in this case as in all others should therefore pursue a more moderate approach.
Analysis
1. Many individuals eat less meat compared to previous generations as there is clear evidence it may not be nutritious. 2. In my opinion, although meat is often eaten in unhealthy contexts, it is generally healthy if prepared correctly.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who argue that meat is inherently unhealthy point out modern insights into nutrition. 2. Many meats, most infamously red meats such as pork and beef, contain fats that can build up and contribute to the leading cause of death globally: cardiovascular disease. 3. Added to this is the fact that meaty dishes are often saturated with heavy carbohydrates, salt, sugar, and other unhealthy fats like butter. 4. One standout example of this would be the cheeseburger, one of the most eaten meal items globally. 5. Not only is the red meat bad for heart health but the buns, cheese, and potentially other toppings only hinder short and long-term nutritional goals.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Make sure your examples are specific.
And you fully detail the results.
1. However, meat on its own is crucial due to high protein levels. 2. Many vegetarians and vegans would argue that protein can be sourced from a variety of nutritious and vitamin-dense nuts and vegetables. 3. Though there is some truth in this, the levels of protein in other foods are low and there are certain essential compounds that can only be found in meat. 4. The best evidence for this comes not only from nutritional studies but also human prehistory. 5. For thousands of years, people have been subsisting on diets high in meat that have greatly contributed to the flourishing of the human race generally and civilization more specifically. 6. Consumed without unhealthy ingredients, there is simply no greater source of energy for the average person.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Finish the paragraph strong.
1. In conclusion, though many meat dishes are high in fat, salt, sugar, and carbohydrates, meat itself is an excellent and healthy source of protein that has historically been a part of the human diet. 2. Individuals in this case as in all others should therefore pursue a more moderate approach.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many individuals eat less meat compared to previous generations as there is clear evidence it may not be nutritious. In my opinion, although meat is often eaten in unhealthy contexts, it is generally healthy if prepared correctly.
Those who argue that meat is inherently unhealthy point out modern insights into nutrition. Many meats, most infamously red meats such as pork and beef, contain fats that can build up and contribute to the leading cause of death globally: cardiovascular disease. Added to this is the fact that meaty dishes are often saturated with heavy carbohydrates, salt, sugar, and other unhealthy fats like butter. One standout example of this would be the cheeseburger, one of the most eaten meal items globally. Not only is the red meat bad for heart health but the buns, cheese, and potentially other toppings only hinder short and long-term nutritional goals.
However, meat on its own is crucial due to high protein levels. Many vegetarians and vegans would argue that protein can be sourced from a variety of nutritious and vitamin-dense nuts and vegetables. Though there is some truth in this, the levels of protein in other foods are low and there are certain essential compounds that can only be found in meat. The best evidence for this comes not only from nutritional studies but also human prehistory. For thousands of years, people have been subsisting on diets high in meat that have greatly contributed to the flourishing of the human race generally and civilization more specifically. Consumed without unhealthy ingredients, there is simply no greater source of energy for the average person.
In conclusion, though many meat dishes are high in fat, salt, sugar, and carbohydrates, meat itself is an excellent and healthy source of protein that has historically been a part of the human diet. Individuals in this case as in all others should thereforepursue a more moderate approach.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
eat less meat compared to previous generations as don’t eat as many animal products compared to the past
clear evidence real proof
unhealthy contexts not in good foods/meals
generally healthy if prepared correctly overall better for you when made well
Those who argue that the people against
inherently in itself, naturally
point out modern insights into nutrition argue new ideas about eating healthy
infamously red meats notoriously beef, pork, lamb, etc.
contain have inside
build up increase
contribute to add to
leading cause of death globally main reason people die around the world
cardiovascular disease heart disease
meaty full of meat
saturated with heavy carbohydrates, salt, sugar, and other unhealthy fats full of unhealthy breads, salty foods, sweet foods and other oily foods
One standout example of this would be an illustrative instance of this is
most eaten meal items globally food that most people consume around the world
heart health cardiovascular health
buns bread for burgers
potentially possibly
toppings what you put on a burger
hinder short and long-term nutritional goals impair now and the future your health
on its own by itself
crucial due to high protein levels essential because of an essential amino acid
vegetarians people who don’t eat meat
vegans people who don’t eat any animal products
protein chicken, beef, etc.
sourced from gotten from
nutritious and vitamin-dense healthy and full of nutrients
Though there is some truth in this however this is somewhat the case
levels how much of it
low not high
certain essential compounds nutritious vitamins
found in located in
The best evidence for this comes not only from nutritional studies but also human prehistory this is best supported by science and the history of humanity
subsisting on diets high in consuming foods with lots of
greatly contributed to the flourishing of the human race generally a main reason why civilization exists
civilization more specifically society especially
Consumed without eaten but not with
ingredients what’s inside a food
no greater source of energy for the average person no better way to get energy for most people
meat dishes meals with meat
high in fat, salt, sugar, and carbohydrates lots of fat, salt, sugar, and carbs
excellent and healthy source of protein main way to get a nutrient for your muscles and energy
historically looking at the past
a part of the human diet something people eat on a daily basis
in this case as in all others always true
thereforepursue a more moderate approach thus look for a better way
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many individuals e________________________________________________________s there is c______________e it may not be nutritious. In my opinion, although meat is often eaten in u_________________s, it is g_______________________________________y.
T______________________t meat is i_____________y unhealthy p_________________________________________n. Many meats, most i____________________________s such as pork and beef, c_________n fats that can b_______p and c__________o the l_________________________________________________e. Added to this is the fact that m______y dishes are often s_______________________________________________________________________s like butter. O______________________________________________e the cheeseburger, one of the m_______________________________y. Not only is the red meat bad for h_____________h but the b___s, cheese, and p______________y other t_____________s only h_____________________________________________s.
However, meat o________n is c____________________________________s. Many v______________s and v_________s would argue that p____________n can be s____________m a variety of n______________________e nuts and vegetables. T____________________________________s, the l________s of protein in other foods are l___w and there are c_______________________________s that can only be f_______n meat. T_______________________________________________________________________________________y. For thousands of years, people have been s______________________n meat that have g____________________________________________________________y and c________________________y. C______________________t unhealthy i____________s, there is simply n_______________________________________________________n.
In conclusion, though many m____________s are h___________________________________s, meat itself is an e______________________________________________n that has h______________y been a___________________t. Individuals i________________________s should t________________________________________h.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of friendship from the real IELTS exam.
I write the essays on my blog for free for all students. If you want to support me to keep making materials, sign up for my full, exclusive IELTS EBooks here:
Friendships that take place online are not as meaningful as those where people meet each other face to face.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Certain concerned parties today would argue that there is inherently less value in online friendships. In my opinion, despite the unique features possible when making friends online, in-person friendships are more meaningful due to the human element.
Supporters of making friendships in the virtual world point out the diverse possibilities for communication. In the past, an individual had little choice other than to make friends within a generally narrow range. Today, the average social media user can contact individuals with more varied interests. For instance, people who are passionate about playing old board games can locate each other on a Facebook group or through an Instagram page and become friends as a result of a shared affinity. Using the internet, these people can stay in contact and sustain a potentially rewarding intellectual friendship.
Nonetheless, it is only possible to have a truly meaningful friendship when meeting face to face. Research has shown that the body produces endorphins that elevate one’s mood through touch and in-person conversation. These are signs that there is tremendous value in real life friendships based around physical proximity. The benefits of such relationships extend to the ability to communicate with body language, eye contact, and physical contact. These features are the intrinsic value and meaning most assign to quality friendships and are completely lacking in superficial online friendships that ultimately do little more than a waste of one’s valuable time and energy.
In conclusion, although being online affords the average person a number of conveniences that can enhance a friendship, there is indeed far greater value in connecting with a person in real life. Few would dispute this claim even as many friendships become increasingly situated in online contexts.
Analysis
1. Certain concerned parties today would argue that there is inherently less value in online friendships. 2. In my opinion, despite the unique features possible when making friends online, in-person friendships are more meaningful due to the human element.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Supporters of making friendships in the virtual world point out the diverse possibilities for communication. 2. In the past, an individual had little choice other than to make friends within a generally narrow range. 3. Today, the average social media user can contact individuals with more varied interests. 4. For instance, people who are passionate about playing old board games can locate each other on a Facebook group or through an Instagram page and become friends as a result of a shared affinity. 5. Using the internet, these people can stay in contact and sustain a potentially rewarding intellectual friendship.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Use specific examples.
1. Nonetheless, it is only possible to have a truly meaningful friendship when meeting face to face. 2. Research has shown that the body produces endorphins that elevate one’s mood through touch and in-person conversation. 3. These are signs that there is tremendous value in real life friendships based around physical proximity. 4. The benefits of such relationships extend to the ability to communicate with body language, eye contact, and physical contact. 5. These features are the intrinsic value and meaning most assign to quality friendships and are completely lacking in superficial online friendships that ultimately do little more than a waste of one’s valuable time and energy.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Finish the paragraph strong.
1. In conclusion, although being online affords the average person a number of conveniences that can enhance a friendship, there is indeed far greater value in connecting with a person in real life. 2. Few would dispute this claim even as many friendships become increasingly situated in online contexts.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Certain concerned parties today would argue that there is inherently less value in online friendships. In my opinion, despite the unique features possible when making friends online, in-person friendships are more meaningful due to the human element.
Supporters of making friendships in the virtual worldpoint out the diverse possibilities for communication. In the past, an individual had little choice other than to make friends within a generally narrow range. Today, the average social media user can contact individuals with more varied interests. For instance, people who are passionate about playing old board games can locate each other on a Facebook group or through an Instagram page and become friends as a result of a shared affinity. Using the internet, these people can stay in contact and sustain a potentially rewarding intellectual friendship.
Nonetheless, it is only possible to have a truly meaningful friendship when meeting face to face. Research has shown that the body produces endorphins that elevate one’s mood through touch and in-person conversation. These are signs that there is tremendous value in real life friendships based around physical proximity. The benefits of such relationships extend to the ability to communicate with body language, eye contact, and physical contact. These features are the intrinsic value and meaning most assign to quality friendships and are completely lacking in superficial online friendships that ultimately do little more than a waste of one’s valuable time and energy.
In conclusion, although being online affords the average person a number of conveniences that can enhance a friendship, there is indeed far greater value in connecting with a person in real life. Few would dispute this claim even as many friendships become increasingly situated in online contexts.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
Certain concerned parties today would argue that some people today contend that
inherently less value in intrinsically not as important as
despite regardless of
unique features possible when new ways of using it allowed as
in-person friendships face to face relationships
meaningful due to the human element valuable because you can meet in person
Supporters of people in favor of
in the virtual world online
point out argue
the diverse possibilities for communication different options for talking
In the past before
little choice other than to not much option besides to
narrow range not many options
average social media user normal person online
contact talk to
varied interests different hobbies
passionate about care a lot about
board games Monopoly, Risk, etc.
locate find
as a result of a shared affinity because of the same interest
stay in contact and sustain a potentially rewarding intellectual friendship talk to each other and possibly keep up a relationship based around ideas and talking
Nonetheless regardless
truly meaningful friendship when meeting face to face actually important relationship as you talk in person
Research has shown that studies indicate that
body produces endorphins makes you feel good and happy
elevate one’s mood through touch and in-person conversation lift your spirits by touching people and talking in person
signs signals, clues
tremendous value real importance
based around physical proximity being near a person in the real world
benefits advantages
extend to include
body language eye contact, moving your hands, touch
eye contact looking in someone’s eyes
physical contact touching
features benefits
intrinsic value real importance
assign to quality friendships consider part of a good relationship
completely lacking in superficial online friendships not present when talking on the internet
ultimately in the end
waste of one’s valuable time and energy inefficient
affords the average person a number of conveniences allows people to live easier
enhance make better
indeed far greater value in connecting with actually more importance in reaching out to
Few would dispute this claim even as not many would argue this point
increasingly situated in online contexts more and more on the internet
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
C_________________________________________________________t there is i____________________________n online friendships. In my opinion, d________e the u______________________________n making friends online, i___________________________s are more m______________________________________t.
S_________________f making friendships i______________________________________________________________n. I_____________t, an individual had l__________________________o make friends within a generally n______________e. Today, the a______________________________r can c__________t individuals with more v___________________s. For instance, people who are p_________________t playing old b_______________s can l_________e each other on a Facebook group or through an Instagram page and become friends a__________________________y. Using the internet, these people can s_____________________________________________________________p.
N_____________s, it is only possible to have a t__________________________________________________________e. R__________________________t the b________________________s that e__________________________________________________________n. These are s____s that there is t__________________e in real life friendships b___________________________________y. The b________s of such relationships e__________o the ability to communicate with b_____________e, e_____________t, and p________________t. These f___________s are the i_____________e and meaning most a_________________________s and are c_____________________________________________________s that u________________y do little more than a w___________________________________________________y.
In conclusion, although being online a________________________________________________s that can e___________e a friendship, there is i____________________________________________h a person in real life. F______________________________________________s many friendships become i________________________________________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Around the world, people are now living longer than ever before in the past. Some say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Others believe there are benefits to society having more elderly people.
To what extent do the advantages of possessing an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages?
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between equality and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in egalitarian societies. Others believe that high levels of personal achievement are possible only if individuals are free to succeed or fail according to their individual merits.
Some people believe that children of all ages should have extra responsibilities (for example, helping at home or at work). Others believe that, outside of school, children should be free to enjoy their lives.
Some feel that individuals should try to assimilate completely to the country where they live while others feel it is more important to preserve their native culture.
Some think schools should rewards students who have the best academic results, while others think it’s more important to reward students who achieve other types of success (such as sports, music, and good behaviour).
Some people 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?
The line chart details the unemployment rate and number of people leaving Ireland from 1988 to 2008. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the figures followed a roughly complementary pattern except for an extended period in the 1990s. Both data sets declined overall though individuals leaving the country ended with an upwards trend.
In 1988, 17% of individuals were unemployed in Ireland and a slightly lower 15.5% decided to leave the country. Starting in 1990, the rates diverged with between 12% and 13% being unemployed up until 1996 and far fewer proportionally moving abroad (between 14% and 8%).
After 1996, a steep drop in terms of unemployment (down to a low of 5% by 2000) recreated a more symmetrical pattern. Individuals leaving the island nation was broadly stable around 7% before a sharp uptick over the final four years of the period to end at 13%. The rise for unemployment figures was more gradual and was finally registered at 6%.
Analysis
1. The line chart details the unemployment rate and number of people leaving Ireland from 1988 to 2008. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the figures followed a roughly complementary pattern except for an extended period in the 1990s. 3. Both data sets declined overall though individuals leaving the country ended with an upwards trend.
Paraphrase what the bar chart shows.
Write a clear overview summarising the differences and the overall trend.
This one is a little complex so it needs a second sentence for the overview.
1. In 1988, 17% of individuals were unemployed in Ireland and a slightly lower 15.5% decided to leave the country. 2. Starting in 1990, the rates diverged with between 12% and 13% being unemployed up until 1996 and far fewer proportionally moving abroad (between 14% and 8%).
Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
Compare between each sentence.
1. After 1996, a steep drop in terms of unemployment (down to a low of 5% by 2000) recreated a more symmetrical pattern. 2. Individuals leaving the island nation was broadly stable around 7% before a sharp uptick over the final four years of the period to end at 13%. 3. The rise for unemployment figures was more gradual and was finally registered at 6%.
Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
Compare the categories.
Don’t leave out any information but try to group as well.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The line chart details the unemployment rate and number of people leaving Ireland from 1988 to 2008. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the figures followed a roughly complementary pattern except for an extended period in the 1990s. Both data sets declined overall though individuals leaving the country ended with an upwards trend.
In 1988, 17% of individuals were unemployed in Ireland and a slightly lower 15.5% decided to leave the country. Starting in 1990, the rates diverged with between 12% and 13% being unemployed up until 1996 and far fewer proportionally moving abroad (between 14% and 8%).
After 1996, a steep drop interms of unemployment (down to a low of 5% by 2000) recreated a more symmetrical pattern. Individuals leaving the island nation was broadly stable around 7% before a sharp uptick over the final four years of the period to end at 13%. The rise for unemployment figures was more gradual and was finally registered at 6%.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
details shows
unemployment rate people without jobs
number of people leaving Ireland individuals moving abroad
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall
figures followed a roughly complementary pattern except for an extended period in numbers were similar in their shape but for one long time
data sets declined overall numbers went down by the end
ended with an upwards trend increased near the end
slightly lower a little less
decided to leave the country chose to move abroad
Starting in beginning
diverged went in different directions
up until leading up to
far fewer proportionally moving abroad not as many people in terms of the percentage leaving for other countries
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
The line chart d_________s the u__________________e and n_________________________d from 1988 to 2008. L______________________________________________________________________t the f_______________________________________________________________________________n the 1990s. Both d______________________l though individuals leaving the country e_________________d.
In 1988, 17% of individuals were unemployed in Ireland and a s______________r 15.5% d______________________________y. S____________n 1990, the rates d_________d with between 12% and 13% being unemployed u________l 1996 and f____________________________________d (between 14% and 8%).
A_______r 1996, a______________________f unemployment (d_______________f 5% by 2000) r____________d a m________________________n. Individuals leaving the i____________n was b_________________d 7% b__________________________r the final four years of the period to e______t 13%. The r____e for unemployment figures was more g______l and was f____________________________t 6%.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
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