IELTS General Training Essay: Competition

IELTS General Training Essay: Competition

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of prioritizing healthcare from the real IELTS exam.

Be sure to sign up for my full IELTS EBooks here to support my efforts to keep writing these essays for students:

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS General Training Essay: Competition

In some countries today, children are taught from a young age that competition is important and that winning is everything.

Is this a positive or a negative development?

In some cultures, competition is viewed as an essential part of personal and professional growth, and children are taught from an early age to win. While this approach may have motivational advantages, the drawbacks for morality are concerning.

Firstly, competition can inspire children to strive for excellence. For example, in many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China, academic competition is highly valued and students often participate in national and international competitions to demonstrate their superiority. The National Science Olympiad in China is a prime example of this, with over 4 million students competing for a chance to represent their country in international competitions. Through this process, students learn how to set goals, manage their time effectively, and think critically, all of which are valuable skills for success in the 21st century.

Moreover, a culture of competition can oftentimes lead to a disregard for ethical behavior and foster interpersonal hostility. An illustrative instance of this can be seen in the recent college admissions scandal in the United States, where wealthy parents paid bribes to secure their children’s admission to elite universities. These parents were more concerned with their children’s success and prestige than with their future character, and their actions sent a message that cheating is acceptable as long as it is not discovered. Such behavior can have negative consequences in the long-term, as children may grow up with a skewed sense of values and priorities and a desire to win unconditionally, leading to aggressive behavior and a lack of principles.

In conclusion, while competition can be a powerful motivator for some children, the disadvantages overshadow the benefits. It is important to maintain a balance between fostering a healthy sense of ambition and creating an environment that is supportive, collaborative, and respectful.

Analysis

1. In some cultures, competition is viewed as an essential part of personal and professional growth, and children are taught from an early age to win. 2. While this approach may have motivational advantages, the drawbacks for morality are concerning.

  1. Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
  2. Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.

1. Firstly, competition can inspire children to strive for excellence. 2. For example, in many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China, academic competition is highly valued and students often participate in national and international competitions to demonstrate their superiority. 3. The National Science Olympiad in China is a prime example of this, with over 4 million students competing for a chance to represent their country in international competitions. 4. Through this process, students learn how to set goals, manage their time effectively, and think critically, all of which are valuable skills for success in the 21st century.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Make sure your examples are specific

1. Moreover, a culture of competition can oftentimes lead to a disregard for ethical behavior and foster interpersonal hostility. 2. An illustrative instance of this can be seen in the recent college admissions scandal in the United States, where wealthy parents paid bribes to secure their children’s admission to elite universities. 3. These parents were more concerned with their children’s success and prestige than with their future character, and their actions sent a message that cheating is acceptable as long as it is not discovered. 4. Such behavior can have negative consequences in the long-term, as children may grow up with a skewed sense of values and priorities and a desire to win unconditionally, leading to aggressive behavior and a lack of principles.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.

1. In conclusion, while competition can be a powerful motivator for some children, the disadvantages overshadow the benefits. 2. It is important to maintain a balance between fostering a healthy sense of ambition and creating an environment that is supportive, collaborative, and respectful.

  1. Summarise your main ideas.
  2. 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.

In some cultures, competition is viewed as an essential part of personal and professional growth, and children are taught from an early age to win. While this approach may have motivational advantages, the drawbacks for morality are concerning.

Firstly, competition can inspire children to strive for excellence. For example, in many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China, academic competition is highly valued and students often participate in national and international competitions to demonstrate their superiority. The National Science Olympiad in China is a prime example of this, with over 4 million students competing for a chance to represent their country in international competitions. Through this process, students learn how to set goals, manage their time effectively, and think critically, all of which are valuable skills for success in the 21st century.

Moreover, a culture of competition can oftentimes lead to a disregard for ethical behavior and foster interpersonal hostility. An illustrative instance of this can be seen in the recent college admissions scandal in the United States, where wealthy parents paid bribes to secure their children’s admission to elite universities. These parents were more concerned with their children’s success and prestige than with their future character, and their actions sent a message that cheating is acceptable as long as it is not discovered. Such behavior can have negative consequences in the long-term, as children may grow up with a skewed sense of values and priorities and a desire to win unconditionally, leading to aggressive behavior and a lack of principles.

In conclusion, while competition can be a powerful motivator for some children, the disadvantages overshadow the benefits. It is important to maintain a balance between fostering a healthy sense of ambition and creating an environment that is supportive, collaborative, and respectful.

Answers

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

In some cultures in many nations

competition rivalry

viewed as seen as

essential part of personal and professional growth necessary element for growth in both personal and professional spheres

taught from an early age instilled from a young age

win succeed

While this approach may have motivational advantages Although this method may offer motivational benefits

drawbacks disadvantages

morality ethics

concerning having to do with

inspire motivate

strive for excellence try really hard

academic competition is highly valued scholastic competition is highly esteemed

participate in national and international competitions take part in national and international contests

demonstrate show

superiority being better than

prime example good instance of

competing for a chance to represent their country in international competitions contending for the chance to take part in international contests on behalf of their country

set goals establish objectives

manage their time effectively utilize their time efficiently

think critically analyze thoughtfully

valuable skills for success in the 21st century crucial abilities for achievement in the 21st century

oftentimes lead to frequently result in

disregard ignore

ethical behavior moral conduct

foster interpersonal hostility breed hostility among people

An illustrative instance of this can be seen in A case in point can be observed in

recent college admissions scandal in the United States people in the USA trying to unfairly get into universities

wealthy rich

paid bribes corruption

secure make sure of

elite universities the best schools

concerned with cared about

success achievement

prestige status

future character personality later on

actions sent a message what they did communicated that

acceptable permissible

discovered found out

negative consequences in the long-term harmful repercussions in the long haul

skewed sense of values and priorities distorted sense of what is important in life

win unconditionally succeed no matter what

aggressive forceful

a lack of principles no morality

powerful motivator for encourages people a lot

overshadow stronger than

maintain a balance keep things equal

a healthy sense of ambition some drive

supportive helpful

collaborative working with others

respectful considerate, polite

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:

ɪn sʌm ˈkʌlʧəz 

ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃᵊn 

vjuːd æz 

ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl pɑːt ɒv ˈpɜːsᵊnᵊl ænd prəˈfɛʃᵊnᵊl ɡrəʊθ 

tɔːt frɒm ən ˈɜːli eɪʤ 

wɪn.

waɪl ðɪs əˈprəʊʧ meɪ hæv ˌməʊtɪˈveɪʃᵊnᵊl ədˈvɑːntɪʤɪz 

ˈdrɔːbæks 

məˈræləti 

kənˈsɜːnɪŋ 

ɪnˈspaɪə 

straɪv fɔːr ˈɛksələns 

ˌækəˈdɛmɪk ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃᵊn ɪz ˈhaɪli ˈvæljuːd 

pɑːˈtɪsɪpeɪt ɪn ˈnæʃᵊnᵊl ænd ˌɪntəˈnæʃᵊnᵊl ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃᵊnz 

ˈdɛmənstreɪt 

suːˌpɪəriˈɒrəti 

praɪm ɪɡˈzɑːmpᵊl 

kəmˈpiːtɪŋ fɔːr ə ʧɑːns tuː ˌrɛprɪˈzɛnt ðeə ˈkʌntri ɪn ˌɪntəˈnæʃᵊnᵊl ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃᵊnz 

sɛt ɡəʊlz 

ˈmænɪʤ ðeə taɪm ɪˈfɛktɪvli 

θɪŋk ˈkrɪtɪkᵊli 

ˈvæljəbᵊl skɪlz fɔː səkˈsɛs ɪn ðiː 21st ˈsɛnʧʊri 

ˈɒfntaɪmz liːd tuː 

ˌdɪsrɪˈɡɑːd 

ˈɛθɪkᵊl bɪˈheɪvjə 

ˈfɒstər ˌɪntəˈpɜːsᵊnᵊl hɒsˈtɪləti 

ən ˈɪləstreɪtɪv ˈɪnstəns ɒv ðɪs kæn biː siːn ɪn 

ˈriːsnt ˈkɒlɪʤ ədˈmɪʃᵊnz ˈskændᵊl ɪn ðə juːˈnaɪtɪd steɪts 

ˈwɛlθi 

peɪd braɪbz 

sɪˈkjʊə 

eɪˈliːt ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsətiz 

kənˈsɜːnd wɪð 

səkˈsɛs 

prɛsˈtiːʒ 

ˈfjuːʧə ˈkærɪktə 

ˈækʃᵊnz sɛnt ə ˈmɛsɪʤ 

əkˈsɛptəbᵊl 

dɪsˈkʌvəd 

ˈnɛɡətɪv ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz ɪn ðə ˈlɒŋtɜːm 

skjuːd sɛns ɒv ˈvæljuːz ænd praɪˈɒrətiz 

wɪn ˌʌnkənˈdɪʃᵊnᵊli 

əˈɡrɛsɪv 

ə læk ɒv ˈprɪnsəpᵊlz 

ˈpaʊəfʊl ˈməʊtɪveɪtə fɔː 

ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ 

meɪnˈteɪn ə ˈbæləns 

ə ˈhɛlθi sɛns ɒv æmˈbɪʃᵊn 

səˈpɔːtɪv 

kəˈlæbᵊrətɪv 

rɪsˈpɛktfʊl

Vocabulary Practice

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:

I______________________s, c_____________n is v__________s an e_____________________________________________________h, and children are t____________________e to w__n. W_____________________________________________________s, the d________s for m_______y are c_______g.

Firstly, competition can i_________e children to s______________e. For example, in many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China, a________________________________d and students often p__________________________________________s to d____________e their s_________y. The National Science Olympiad in China is a ____________e of this, with over 4 million students c__________________________________________________________________s. Through this process, students learn how to s_______s, m____________________y, and t_____________y, all of which are v______________________________________y.

Moreover, a culture of competition can o_________________o a d_________d for e__________________r and f___________________________________y. A______________________________________n the r________________________________________________s, where w_______y parents p___________s to s_______e their children’s admission to e____________________s. These parents were more c____________________h their children’s s________s and p_________e than with their f_____________r, and their a__________________e that cheating is a______________e as long as it is not d__________d. Such behavior can have n______________________________________________m, as children may grow up with a s____________________________s and a desire to w________________________y, leading to a___________e behavior and a__________________s.

In conclusion, while competition can be a p_____________________r some children, the disadvantages o_____________w the benefits. It is important to m_____________e between fostering a_____________________________n and creating an environment that is s___________e, c____________e, and r___________l.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Varsity_Blues_scandal

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:

School

  1. Did you like your school when you were a child?
  2. What did you learn about?
  3. Did you have a favorite teacher?
  4. Are there many rules in schools in your country?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some people think that children should begin their formal education at a very early age. Others think they should begin after 7 years of age.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

IELTS Essay: Drilling

IELTS Essay: Drilling

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of drilling in remote locations from the real IELTS exam.

Be sure to sign up for my full IELTS EBooks here to support my efforts to keep writing these essays for students:

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS Essay: Prioritizing Healthcare

In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of oil drilling operations in remote locations around the world. This has brought economic benefits to some countries, though it has also raised concerns about the environmental impact of these operations.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

There is ongoing debate about whether or not nations should drill for oil in remote locations. While some argue that it is necessary to meet our ever-increasing energy demands, I would side with those who contend that the potential environmental damage to local communities outweighs any economic benefits.

On the one hand, drilling for oil in remote locations can facilitate energy production. For example, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska is estimated to contain up to 12 billion barrels of oil, which could help to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil. Other nations have similar reserves that can meet pressing demands for the average person. The drilling operations in these remote locations will simultaneously create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding area. As economic conditions improve, energy needs will concomitantly rise and increased drilling can potentially create a cycle that benefits both locals and a given country at large.

On the other hand, drilling for oil in remote locations has significant environmental consequences. The process of extracting oil can lead to the release of greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. For instance, the Canadian oil sands, which are located in unpopulated areas of Alberta, are one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the world. Relatedly, drilling can have negative effects on the health and wellbeing of nearby communities, particularly indigenous populations. In the above-mentioned example, some of the oil has been extracted through the controversial practice of fracking which contaminates local water supplies where native population rates are high.

In conclusion, while drilling for oil in remote locations may provide temporary economic benefits, the long-term costs to the environment and local communities are too significant. Instead, governments should prioritize the development of sustainable energy sources that will help to ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.

Analysis

1. There is ongoing debate about whether or not nations should drill for oil in remote locations. 2. While some argue that it is necessary to meet our ever-increasing energy demands, I would side with those who contend that the potential environmental damage to local communities outweighs any economic benefits.

  1. Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
  2. Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.

1. On the one hand, drilling for oil in remote locations can facilitate energy production. 2. For example, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska is estimated to contain up to 12 billion barrels of oil, which could help to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil. 3. Other nations have similar reserves that can meet pressing demands for the average person. 4. The drilling operations in these remote locations will simultaneously create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding area. 5. As economic conditions improve, energy needs will concomitantly rise and increased drilling can potentially create a cycle that benefits both locals and a given country at large.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Make sure your examples are specific.
  6. And you fully detail the results.

1. On the other hand, drilling for oil in remote locations has significant environmental consequences. 2. The process of extracting oil can lead to the release of greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. 3. For instance, the Canadian oil sands, which are located in unpopulated areas of Alberta, are one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the world. 4. Relatedly, drilling can have negative effects on the health and wellbeing of nearby communities, particularly indigenous populations. 5. In the above-mentioned example, some of the oil has been extracted through the controversial practice of fracking which contaminates local water supplies where native population rates are high.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
  5. Finish the paragraph strong.

1. In conclusion, while drilling for oil in remote locations may provide temporary economic benefits, the long-term costs to the environment and local communities are too significant. 2. Instead, governments should prioritize the development of sustainable energy sources that will help to ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.

  1. Summarise your main ideas.
  2. 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.

There is ongoing debate about whether or not nations should drill for oil in remote locations. While some argue that it is necessary to meet our ever-increasing energy demands, I would side with those who contend that the potential environmental damage to local communities outweighs any economic benefits.

On the one hand, drilling for oil in remote locations can facilitate energy production. For example, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska is estimated to contain up to 12 billion barrels of oil, which could help to reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil. Other nations have similar reserves that can meet pressing demands for the average person. The drilling operations in these remote locations will simultaneously create jobs and stimulate economic growth in the surrounding area. As economic conditions improve, energy needs will concomitantly rise and increased drilling can potentially create a cycle that benefits both locals and a given country at large.

On the other hand, drilling for oil in remote locations has significant environmental consequences. The process of extracting oil can lead to the release of greenhouse gases and other harmful pollutants into the atmosphere, contributing to climate change. For instance, the Canadian oil sands, which are located in unpopulated areas of Alberta, are one of the largest sources of greenhouse gas emissions in the world. Relatedly, drilling can have negative effects on the health and wellbeing of nearby communities, particularly indigenous populations. In the above-mentioned example, some of the oil has been extracted through the controversial practice of fracking which contaminates local water supplies where native population rates are high.

In conclusion, while drilling for oil in remote locations may provide temporary economic benefits, the long-term costs to the environment and local communities are too significant. Instead, governments should prioritize the development of sustainable energy sources that will help to ensure a cleaner, healthier future for all.

Answers

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

There is ongoing debate about whether or not many people are wondering about if

drill for oil get fuel out of the ground

remote locations far away places

necessary needed

meet our ever-increasing energy demands satisfy the need for more fuel

I would side with those who contend that I agree with the people who say that

potential environmental damage to local communities outweighs possibly hurting nature and people are more significant

economic benefits helping the economy

facilitate energy production help make more energy

estimated to contain up to likely holds

reduce America’s dependence on foreign oil lower need for imported oil

similar reserves comparable deposits

meet pressing demands for the average person  fulfill urgent needs of everyday people

drilling operations oil extraction procedures

simultaneously at the same time

stimulate economic growth in the surrounding area foster economic advancement in the neighboring region

As economic conditions improve with an enhancement in the economy

concomitantly rise increase simultaneously

potentially create a cycle could lead to a pattern

benefits advantages

a given country at large the entire nation

significant environmental consequences important environmental effects

The process of extracting oil petroleum retrieval procedure

lead to result in

release of greenhouse gases emission of harmful gases

harmful pollutants detrimental contaminants

atmosphere air

contributing to climate change causing global warming

unpopulated areas deserted regions

largest sources of main origins of

Relatedly similarly

health and wellbeing of nearby communities the welfare of neighboring communities

particularly indigenous populations predominantly original inhabitants

In the above-mentioned example in the earlier mentioned case

extracted through the controversial practice of fracking extracted using the disputed process of fracking

where native population rates are high in areas with elevated indigenous population levels

provide temporary economic benefits supply short-term financial advantages

long-term costs to extended consequences for

Instead as an alternative

prioritize put first

sustainable energy sources eco-friendly energy

ensure a cleaner secure a less polluted

healthier future for all better future for everyone

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:

ðeər ɪz ˈɒŋˌɡəʊɪŋ dɪˈbeɪt əˈbaʊt ˈwɛðər ɔː nɒt 
drɪl fɔːr ɔɪl 
rɪˈməʊt ləʊˈkeɪʃᵊnz
ˈnɛsɪsəri 
miːt ˈaʊə ˈɛvər-ɪnˈkriːsɪŋ ˈɛnəʤi dɪˈmɑːndz
aɪ wʊd saɪd wɪð ðəʊz huː kənˈtɛnd ðæt 
pəˈtɛnʃᵊl ɪnˌvaɪrᵊnˈmɛntᵊl ˈdæmɪʤ tuː ˈləʊkᵊl kəˈmjuːnətiz aʊtˈweɪ 
ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈbɛnɪfɪts
fəˈsɪlɪteɪt ˈɛnəʤi prəˈdʌkʃᵊn
ˈɛstɪmeɪtɪd tuː kənˈteɪn ʌp tuː 
rɪˈdjuːs əˈmɛrɪkəz dɪˈpɛndəns ɒn ˈfɒrən ɔɪl 
ˈsɪmɪlə rɪˈzɜːvz 
miːt ˈprɛsɪŋ dɪˈmɑːndz fɔː ði ˈævərɪʤ ˈpɜːsᵊn 
ˈdrɪlɪŋ ˌɒpəˈreɪʃᵊnz 
ˌsɪməlˈteɪniəsli 
ˈstɪmjəleɪt ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ ɪn ðə səˈraʊndɪŋ ˈeərɪə 
æz ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk kənˈdɪʃᵊnz ɪmˈpruːv 
kənˈkɒmɪtəntli raɪz 
pəˈtɛnʃᵊli kriˈeɪt ə ˈsaɪkᵊl 
ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
ə ˈɡɪvᵊn ˈkʌntri æt lɑːʤ 
sɪɡˈnɪfɪkənt ɪnˌvaɪrᵊnˈmɛntᵊl ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz 
ðə ˈprəʊsɛs ɒv ɪksˈtræktɪŋ ɔɪl 
liːd tuː 
rɪˈliːs ɒv ˈɡriːnhaʊs ˈɡæsɪz 
ˈhɑːmfʊl pəˈluːtənts 
ˈætməsfɪə 
kənˈtrɪbjuːtɪŋ tuː ˈklaɪmət ʧeɪnʤ 
ˌʌnˈpɒpjəleɪtɪd ˈeərɪəz 
ˈlɑːʤɪst ˈsɔːsɪz ɒv 
rɪˈleɪtɪdli 
hɛlθ ænd ˌwɛlˈbiːɪŋ ɒv ˈnɪəbaɪ kəˈmjuːnətiz 
pəˈtɪkjələli ɪnˈdɪʤɪnəs ˌpɒpjəˈleɪʃᵊnz
ɪn ði əˈbʌvˈmɛnʃᵊnd ɪɡˈzɑːmpᵊl 
ɪksˈtræktɪd θruː ðə ˌkɒntrəˈvɜːʃᵊl ˈpræktɪs ɒv frakɪŋ
weə ˈneɪtɪv ˌpɒpjəˈleɪʃᵊn reɪts ɑː haɪ 
prəˈvaɪd ˈtɛmpərəri ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
ˈlɒŋtɜːm kɒsts tuː 
ɪnˈstɛd 
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz 
səsˈteɪnəbᵊl ˈɛnəʤi ˈsɔːsɪz 
ɪnˈʃʊər ə ˈkliːnə 
ˈhɛlθɪə ˈfjuːʧə fɔːr ɔːl 

Vocabulary Practice

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______________________________________t nations should d____________l in r_________________s. While some argue that it is n__________y to m___________________________s, I_____________________________________t the p______________________________________________________h any e___________________s.

On the one hand, drilling for oil in remote locations can f______________________n. For example, the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge in Alaska is e________________________o 12 billion barrels of oil, which could help to r____________________________________________l. Other nations have s______________s that can m_______________________________________n. The d____________________s in these remote locations will s___________________y create jobs and s________________________________________a. A__________________________________e, energy needs will c________________e and increased drilling can p__________________________e that b__________s both locals and a______________________________e.

On the other hand, drilling for oil in remote locations has s_____________________________________________s. T__________________________l can l___________o the r___________________________s and other h_________________s into the a_____________e, c_________________________e. For instance, the Canadian oil sands, which are located in u__________________s of Alberta, are one of the l___________________f greenhouse gas emissions in the world. R_________y, drilling can have negative effects on the h______________________________________s, p_____________________________________s. I__________________________e, some of the oil has been e_________________________________________g which contaminates local water supplies w_________________________________________________h.

In conclusion, while drilling for oil in remote locations may p_____________________________________s, the l____________________o the environment and local communities are too significant. I_______d, governments should p___________e the development of s__________________________s that will help to e_________________r, h___________________l.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:

https://www.nationalgeographic.com/environment/article/wilderness-crown-jewel-opening-for-drilling-industry-interest-weak

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Environment

  1. How are environmental problems dealt with in your country?
  2. What can be done to make people recycle more often?
  3. What is the most pressing environmental problem?
  4. Is recycling a common practice in your country?
  5. Are governments or individuals more responsible?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

The global demand for oil and gas is increasing. Some believe that we should therefore encourage the exploitation of remote areas.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

IELTS Essay: Prioritizing Healthcare

IELTS Essay: Prioritizing Healthcare

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of prioritizing healthcare from the real IELTS exam.

Be sure to sign up for my full IELTS EBooks here to support my efforts to keep writing these essays for students:

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS Essay: Prioritizing Healthcare

Some feel that governments should prioritize healthcare instead of other important areas.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In recent years, the issue of whether the government should prioritize funding for healthcare above all other areas has been a topic of debate. I would argue that healthcare should take precedence, as it is a fundamental human right and essential for a healthy and productive population.

Certain interested party contend that there are other areas that are just as important as healthcare. One such area is education. Education is often rightly seen as a key factor in social and economic development. For example, in developing countries, a lack of education can result in high levels of poverty and unemployment. Countries that invest in education have seen the results permeate throughout society, including the well-known examples of Japan after the Second World War and Finland in recent decades. Educational quality can in turn lead to sustained economic growth and higher standards of living for the average citizen.

Despite these valid arguments, I believe that healthcare should still be given priority in terms of state budget allocation. One reason for this is the fact that healthcare is a universal need. Unlike education, which can benefit some people more than others, everyone requires quality healthcare at some point in their lives. For instance, in the United States, the lack of affordable healthcare has resulted in many people from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds being unable to afford necessary treatments. The consequences of this can be seen in the high number of preventable deaths each year, which could have been avoided if the government had prioritized healthcare funding.

In conclusion, it is clear that healthcare is an essential human right and deserves precedence above other critical areas such as education. Ultimately, the key is to find a sustainable and equitable approach that benefits everyone.

Analysis

1. In recent years, the issue of whether the government should prioritize funding for healthcare above all other areas has been a topic of debate. 2. I would argue that healthcare should take precedence, as it is a fundamental human right and essential for a healthy and productive population.

  1. Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
  2. Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.

1. Certain interested party contend that there are other areas that are just as important as healthcare. 2. One such area is education. 3. Education is often rightly seen as a key factor in social and economic development. 4. For example, in developing countries, a lack of education can result in high levels of poverty and unemployment. 5. Countries that invest in education have seen the results permeate throughout society, including the well-known examples of Japan after the Second World War and Finland in recent decades. 6. Educational quality can in turn lead to sustained economic growth and higher standards of living for the average citizen.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Make sure your examples are specific.
  6. And you fully detail the results.

1. Despite these valid arguments, I believe that healthcare should still be given priority in terms of state budget allocation. 2. One reason for this is the fact that healthcare is a universal need. 3. Unlike education, which can benefit some people more than others, everyone requires quality healthcare at some point in their lives. 4. For instance, in the United States, the lack of affordable healthcare has resulted in many people from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds being unable to afford necessary treatments. 5. The consequences of this can be seen in the high number of preventable deaths each year, which could have been avoided if the government had prioritized healthcare funding.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
  5. Finish the paragraph strong.

1. In conclusion, it is clear that healthcare is an essential human right and deserves precedence above other critical areas such as education. 2. Ultimately, the key is to find a sustainable and equitable approach that benefits everyone.

  1. Summarise your main ideas.
  2. 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.

In recent years, the issue of whether the government should prioritize funding for healthcare above all other areas has been a topic of debate. I would argue that healthcare should take precedence, as it is a fundamental human right and essential for a healthy and productive population.

Certain interested party contend that there are other areas that are just as important as healthcare. One such area is education. Education is often rightly seen as a decisive factor in social and economic development. For example, in developing countries, a lack of education can result in high levels of poverty and unemployment. Countries that invest in education have seen the results permeate throughout society, including the well-known examples of Japan after the Second World War and Finland in recent decades. Educational quality can in turn lead to sustained economic growth and higher standards of living for the average citizen.

Despite these valid arguments, I believe that healthcare should still be given priority in terms of state budget allocation. One reason for this is the fact that healthcare is a universal need. Unlike education, which can benefit some people more than others, everyone requires quality healthcare at some point in their lives. For instance, in the United States, the lack of affordable healthcare has resulted in many people from a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds being unable to afford necessary treatments. The consequences of this can be witnessed in the high number of preventable deaths each year, which could have been avoided if the government had valued healthcare funding appropriately.

In conclusion, it is clear that healthcare is an essential human right and deserves precedence above other critical areas such as education. Ultimately, the key is to find a sustainable and equitable approach that benefits everyone.

Answers

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

In recent years these days

the issue of whether the problem about whether or not

prioritize funding for healthcare above all other areas focus on spending money on hospital and doctors instead of other places to invest in

topic of debate something people argue about

take precedence more important than

fundamental human right basic thing humans deserve

essential crucial

healthy and productive population people working and living well

Certain interested party contend that some argue that

just as important as equally important to

often rightly seen as a decisive factor usually justly the critical element

social and economic development people and the economy getting better

developing countries less wealthy nations

a lack of not having

high levels of poverty and unemployment lots of poor people and people without jobs

invest in put money into

seen the results permeate throughout society the effects impact everyone

including these examples of it

well-known examples famous instances of this

in turn lead to sustained economic growth thus cause better finances

higher standards of living for the average citizen higher quality of life for most people

Despite these valid arguments regardless of these true points

given priority in terms of state budget allocation granted precedence concerning money from the government

One reason for this is once justification is

quality healthcare at some point in their lives good hospital in their lifetime

lack of affordable healthcare no good options for insurance

a variety of socioeconomic backgrounds being unable to afford necessary treatments people from different parts of society can’t pay for procedures at hospitals

consequences results

high number of preventable deaths each year many people dying every year who don’t have to

avoided get around

valued considered important

appropriately well-suited

essential human right basic human need

deserves precedence should be given consideration

critical crucial

Ultimately in the end

key important

sustainable and equitable approach that benefits everyone long-term, fair way that helps every person

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:

ɪn ˈriːsnt jɪəz 

ði ˈɪʃuː ɒv ˈwɛðə 

praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz ˈfʌndɪŋ fɔː ˈhɛlθkeər əˈbʌv ɔːl ˈʌðər ˈeərɪəz 

ˈtɒpɪk ɒv dɪˈbeɪt 

teɪk ˈprɛsɪdᵊns 

ˌfʌndəˈmɛntᵊl ˈhjuːmən raɪt 

ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl 

ˈhɛlθi ænd prəˈdʌktɪv ˌpɒpjəˈleɪʃᵊn 

ˈsɜːtn ˈɪntrɛstɪd ˈpɑːti kənˈtɛnd ðæt 

ʤʌst æz ɪmˈpɔːtənt æz 

ˈɒfᵊn ˈraɪtli siːn æz ə dɪˈsaɪsɪv ˈfæktə 

ˈsəʊʃᵊl ænd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk dɪˈvɛləpmənt 

dɪˈvɛləpɪŋ ˈkʌntriz 

ə læk ɒv 

haɪ ˈlɛvᵊlz ɒv ˈpɒvəti ænd ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt 

ɪnˈvɛst ɪn 

siːn ðə rɪˈzʌlts ˈpɜːmieɪt θruːˈaʊt səˈsaɪəti 

ɪnˈkluːdɪŋ 

wɛl-nəʊn ɪɡˈzɑːmpᵊlz 

ɪn tɜːn liːd tuː səsˈteɪnd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ 

ˈhaɪə ˈstændədz ɒv ˈlɪvɪŋ fɔː ði ˈævərɪʤ ˈsɪtɪzn 

dɪsˈpaɪt ðiːz ˈvælɪd ˈɑːɡjəmənts 

ˈɡɪvn praɪˈɒrəti ɪn tɜːmz ɒv steɪt ˈbʌʤɪt ˌæləʊˈkeɪʃᵊn 

wʌn ˈriːzn fɔː ðɪs ɪz 

ˈkwɒləti ˈhɛlθkeər æt sʌm pɔɪnt ɪn ðeə lɪvz 

læk ɒv əˈfɔːdəbᵊl ˈhɛlθkeə 

ə vəˈraɪəti ɒv ˌsəʊsiəʊˌɛkəˈnɒmɪk ˈbækɡraʊndz ˈbiːɪŋ ʌnˈeɪbᵊl tuː əˈfɔːd ˈnɛsɪsəri ˈtriːtmənts 

ˈkɒnsɪkwənsɪz 

haɪ ˈnʌmbər ɒv prɪˈvɛntəbᵊl dɛθs iːʧ jɪə 

əˈvɔɪdɪd 

ˈvæljuːd 

əˈprəʊpriətli 

ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl ˈhjuːmən raɪt 

dɪˈzɜːvz ˈprɛsɪdᵊns 

ˈkrɪtɪkᵊl 

ˈʌltɪmɪtli 

kiː 

səsˈteɪnəbᵊl ænd ˈɛkwɪtəbᵊl əˈprəʊʧ ðæt ˈbɛnɪfɪts ˈɛvrɪwʌn

Vocabulary Practice

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:

I___________________s, t_______________________r the government should p______________________________________________________s has been a t_________________e. I would argue that healthcare should t_________________e, as it is a f________________________t and e__________l for a h__________________________________n.

C___________________________________________t there are other areas that are j_____________________s healthcare. One such area is education. Education is o________________________________r in s_________________________________t. For example, in d______________________s, a_________f education can result in h________________________________________________t. Countries that i__________n education have s______________________________________________________y, i_____________g the w____________________s of Japan after the Second World War and Finland in recent decades. Educational quality can i________________________________________h and h__________________________________________________n.

D_____________________________________s, I believe that healthcare should still be g_____________________________________________n. O__________________________s the fact that healthcare is a universal need. Unlike education, which can benefit some people more than others, everyone requires q___________________________________________________s. For instance, in the United States, the l______________________________e has resulted in many people from a____________________________________________________________________________________________s. The c_____________s of this can be witnessed in the h_______________________________________r, which could have been a_________d if the government had v_______d healthcare funding a_______________y.

In conclusion, it is clear that healthcare is an e________________________t and d___________________e above other c________l areas such as education. U____________y, the k__y is to find a s__________________________________________________________e.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:

https://news.google.com/articles/CBMie2h0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmZvcmJlcy5jb20vc2l0ZXMvc2FjaGluamFpbi8yMDIzLzA3LzA2L2hlYWx0aGNhcmUtamFyZ29uLXRoZS0xMC1tb3N0LWNvbmZ1c2luZy1hbmQtdW5oZWxwZnVsLXdvcmRzLWFuZC1waHJhc2VzL9IBf2h0dHBzOi8vd3d3LmZvcmJlcy5jb20vc2l0ZXMvc2FjaGluamFpbi8yMDIzLzA3LzA2L2hlYWx0aGNhcmUtamFyZ29uLXRoZS0xMC1tb3N0LWNvbmZ1c2luZy1hbmQtdW5oZWxwZnVsLXdvcmRzLWFuZC1waHJhc2VzL2FtcC8?hl=en-US&gl=US&ceid=US%3Aen

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Health

  1. How often do people in your country go to the doctor?
  2. Are doctors always trustworthy?
  3. How will hospitals change in the future?
  4. Is traditional medicine an important part of your culture?
  5. What makes a person healthy?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some people today prefer to get advice for medical problems and do not want to visit a doctor.

Why is this?

Is this a positive or a negative development?

IELTS Task 1: Patients Visiting a Clinic

IELTS Task 1: Patients Visiting a Clinic

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of patients visiting a clinic from 2010 to 2016.

You can also sign up for my full EBooks below:

Full IELTS EBooks on Patreon

Dave

IELTS Task 1: Patients Visiting a Clinic

The line graph compares the average visitation figures for patients in four categories who went to clinics at a specific hospital weekly between 2010 and 2016. In general, it is noticeable that the number of patients at the four clinics increased for all types of visits except for birth control which was unchanged overall. The figure for eye issues became the most common over the period, overtaking birth control, while visits for diabetic and dental reasons were lower throughout.

There were nearly 250 visits related to birth control in 2010, a figure which rose to a peak of 275 by 2012, before a sharp decline to 175 in 2014, and a complete recovery to its starting figure by the end of the time surveyed. In contrast, visits to the doctor concerning eye issues started lower at 125, grew negligibly over the next two years, prior to surging in the final four years to a high point, relative to all visits, of 350.

Diabetic and dental visits were consistently less common with the former beginning at 60, rising steadily to plateau under 100, and finishing the period with a sharp uptick to 175. The latter began the period higher at 100 visits, fell to half that number in 2012, more than recovered to 125 in 2014, and grew marginally in the final two years recorded.

Analysis

1. The line graph compares the average visitation figures for patients in four categories who went to clinics at a specific hospital weekly between 2010 and 2016. 2. In general, it is noticeable that the number of patients at the four clinics increased for all types of visits except for birth control which was unchanged overall. 3. The figure for eye issues became the most common over the period, overtaking birth control, while visits for diabetic and dental reasons were lower throughout.

  1. Paraphrase what the bar chart shows.
  2. Write a clear overview summarising the differences and the overall trend.
  3. This one is a little complex so it needs a second sentence for the overview.

1. There were nearly 250 visits related to birth control in 2010, a figure which rose to a peak of 275 by 2012, before a sharp decline to 175 in 2014, and a complete recovery to its starting figure by the end of the time surveyed. 2. In contrast, visits to the doctor concerning eye issues started lower at 125, grew negligibly over the next two years, prior to surging in the final four years to a high point, relative to all visits, of 350.

  1. Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
  2. Compare between each sentence.

1. Diabetic and dental visits were consistently less common with the former beginning at 60, rising steadily to plateau under 100, and finishing the period with a sharp uptick to 175. 2. The latter began the period higher at 100 visits, fell to half that number in 2012, more than recovered to 125 in 2014, and grew marginally in the final two years recorded.

  1. Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
  2. Compare the categories.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

The line graph compares the average visitation figures for patients in four categories who went to clinics at a specific hospital weekly between 2010 and 2016. In general, it is noticeable that the number of patients at the four clinics increased for all types of visits except for birth control which was unchanged overall. The figure for eye issues became the most common over the period, overtaking birth control, while visits for diabetic and dental reasons were lower throughout.

There were nearly 250 visits related to birth control in 2010, a figure which rose to a peak of 275 by 2012, before a sharp decline to 175 in 2014, and a complete recovery to its starting figure by the end of the time surveyed. In contrast, visits to the doctor concerning eye issues started lower at 125, grew negligibly over the next two years, prior to surging in the final four years to a high point, relative to all visits, of 350.

Diabetic and dental visits were consistently less common with the former beginning at 60, rising steadily to plateau under 100, and finishing the period with a sharp uptick to 175. The latter began the period higher at 100 visits, fell to half that number in 2012, more than recovered to 125 in 2014, and grew marginally in the final two years recorded.

Answers

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

compares shows the differences between

average visitation figures for patients number of times people went to the hospital

clinics hospitals

specific hospital weekly this one medical center each week

In general overall

it is noticeable that it can clearly be seen that

all types of visits except for birth control all kinds of trips not including pills to stop pregnancy

unchanged overall stable in general

eye issues problems with your eyes

most common over the period happened a lot during that time

overtaking going past

while in contrast

diabetic related to diabetes

dental related to taking care of your teeth

lower throughout less the whole time

nearly almost

related to birth control in concerning pills to prevent pregnancy

figure data

rose to a peak of increased to a high of

before a sharp decline to prior to a big drop to

complete recovery to totally getting back to the same level

starting figure by the end of the time surveyed beginning number at the end of the period

In contrast in comparison

concerning eye issues started lower at having to do with eye problems began under at

grew negligibly over the next two years increased a bit for the next couple of years

prior to surging before increasing a lot

to a high point, relative to its peak, compared to

Diabetic can’t eat too much sugar

dental related to teeth

consistently less common with the former beginning at all the time not as often with the on mentioned before starting at

rising steadily to plateau under increasing consistently to level off at

finishing the period with a sharp uptick to ending the time with a big increase to

latter the one mentioned second

fell to half that number in decreased to 50% of the figure

more than recovered to came back up and exceeded the number before

grew marginally in the final two years recorded increased a bit at the end of the period

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:

kəmˈpeəz 
ˈævərɪʤ ˌvɪzɪˈteɪʃᵊn ˈfɪɡəz fɔː ˈpeɪʃənts 
ˈklɪnɪks 
spɪˈsɪfɪk ˈhɒspɪtᵊl ˈwiːkli 
ɪn ˈʤɛnərəl 
ɪt ɪz ˈnəʊtɪsəbᵊl ðæt 
ɔːl taɪps ɒv ˈvɪzɪts ɪkˈsɛpt fɔː bɜːθ kənˈtrəʊl 
ʌnˈʧeɪnʤd ˈəʊvərɔːl 
aɪ ˈɪʃuːz 
məʊst ˈkɒmən ˈəʊvə ðə ˈpɪəriəd 
ˌəʊvəˈteɪkɪŋ 
waɪl 
ˌdaɪəˈbɛtɪk 
ˈdɛntᵊl 
ˈləʊə θruːˈaʊt 
ˈnɪəli 
rɪˈleɪtɪd tuː bɜːθ kənˈtrəʊl ɪn 
ˈfɪɡə 
rəʊz tuː ə piːk ɒv 
bɪˈfɔːr ə ʃɑːp dɪˈklaɪn tuː 
kəmˈpliːt rɪˈkʌvəri tuː 
ˈstɑːtɪŋ ˈfɪɡə baɪ ði ɛnd ɒv ðə taɪm sɜːˈveɪd 
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst 
kənˈsɜːnɪŋ aɪ ˈɪʃuːz ˈstɑːtɪd ˈləʊər æt 
ɡruː ˈnɛɡlɪʤəbᵊli ˈəʊvə ðə nɛkst tuː jɪəz 
ˈpraɪə tuː ˈsɜːʤɪŋ 
tuː ə haɪ pɔɪntˈrɛlətɪv tuː 
ˌdaɪəˈbɛtɪk 
ˈdɛntᵊl 
kənˈsɪstəntli lɛs ˈkɒmən wɪð ðə ˈfɔːmə bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ æt 
ˈraɪzɪŋ ˈstɛdɪli tuː ˈplætəʊ ˈʌndə 
ˈfɪnɪʃɪŋ ðə ˈpɪəriəd wɪð ə ʃɑːp ʌp tɪk tuː 
ˈlætə 
fɛl tuː hɑːf ðæt ˈnʌmbər ɪn 
mɔː ðæn rɪˈkʌvəd tuː 
ɡruː ˈmɑːʤɪnəli ɪn ðə ˈfaɪnᵊl tuː jɪəz rɪˈkɔːdɪd 

Vocabulary Practice

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 graph c_________s the a_______________________________s in four categories who went to c______s at a s__________________________y between 2010 and 2016. I___________l, i__________________t the number of patients at the four clinics increased for a______________________________________l which was u_________________l. The figure for e__________s became the m_______________________________d, o__________g birth control, w_____e visits for d________c and d__________l reasons were l______________________t.

There were n________y 250 visits r_________________________n 2010, a f_______e which r_________________f 275 by 2012, b________________________o 175 in 2014, and a c_________________o its s____________________________________________d. I_____________t, visits to the doctor c__________________________________t 125, g______________________________________s, p__________________g in the final four years t______________________t, r_____________o all visits, of 350.

D__________c and d_______l visits were c______________________________________________t 60, r____________________________r 100, and f__________________________________________o 175. The l________r began the period higher at 100 visits, f_____________________________n 2012, m________________________o 125 in 2014, and g_________________________________________d.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:

https://www.healthline.com/

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Health

  1. How often do people in your country go to the doctor?
  2. Are doctors always trustworthy?
  3. How will hospitals change in the future?
  4. Is traditional medicine an important part of your culture?
  5. What makes a person healthy?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS chart below:

IELTS Cambridge 18: Map of a Central Library

IELTS Cambridge 18: Map of a Central Library

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay from the new IELTS Cambridge 18 book of past tests on the topic of a map of a central library.

You can also sign up for my full EBooks below:

Full IELTS EBooks on Patreon

Dave

IELTS Cambridge 18: Map of a Central Library

The diagram details a central library floor plan twenty years ago compared to the present day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the library has a more open layout and there is greater emphasis on technology, self-service, and recreation. All rooms have been reorganized and only the entrance is unchanged.

Two decades ago, the most noticeable difference was two groupings of tables and chairs immediately upon entering the library that are no longer there today. To the left of the chairs there was a reading room that contained newspapers and magazines that has now been transformed into a computer room. Above that there used to be adult fiction but now this open area contains all the library’s reference books. The final rooms on the left side were previously for media such as CDs, videos, and games but now the children’s area has moved from the opposite corner and expanded to allow for sofas and storytelling events.

The former location of the children’s area on the upper left side of the library is now a room for lectures which is directly above a space with adult fiction, a long information desk, and 3 self-service machines. The final addition is a café that has taken the place of an enquiry desk for returns and other questions.

Analysis

1. The diagram details a central library floor plan twenty years ago compared to the present day. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the library has a more open layout and there is greater emphasis on technology, self-service, and recreation. 3. All rooms have been reorganized and only the entrance is unchanged.

  1. Paraphrase what the bar chart shows.
  2. Write a clear overview summarising the differences .
  3. Be safe and include a second sentence where you group and characterize the changes.

1. Two decades ago, the most noticeable difference was two groupings of tables and chairs immediately upon entering the library that are no longer there today. 2. To the left of the chairs there was a reading room that contained newspapers and magazines that has now been transformed into a computer room. 3. Above that there used to be adult fiction but now this open area contains all the library’s reference books. 4. The final rooms on the left side were previously for media such as CDs, videos, and games but now the children’s area has moved from the opposite corner and expanded to allow for sofas and storytelling events.

  1. Begin writing about where everything is.
  2. Compare between each sentence.
  3. Add as much detail as possible.
  4. Make sure you don’t miss anything.

1. The former location of the children’s area on the upper left side of the library is now a room for lectures which is directly above a space with adult fiction, a long information desk, and 3 self-service machines. 2. The final addition is a café that has taken the place of an enquiry desk for returns and other questions.

  1. Write about the final other parts of the map – include everything!
  2. This one is a bit long, but better than being too short!

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.

The diagram details a central library floor plan twenty years ago compared to the present day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the library has a more open layout and there is greater emphasis on technology, self-service, and recreation. All rooms have been reorganized and only the entrance is unchanged.

Two decades ago, the most noticeable difference was two groupings of tables and chairs immediately upon entering the library that are no longer there today. To the left of the chairs there was a reading room that contained newspapers and magazines that has now been transformed into a computer room. Above that there used to be adult fiction but now this open area contains all the library’s reference books. The final rooms on the left side were previously for media such as CDs, videos, and games but now the children’s area has moved from the opposite corner and expanded to allow for sofas and storytelling events.

The former location of the children’s area on the upper left side of the library is now a room for lectures which is directly above a space with adult fiction, a long information desk, and 3 self-service machines. The final addition is a café that has taken the place of an enquiry desk for returns and other questions.

Answers

For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:

diagram details map shows

central library floor plan the rooms in a library where you can borrow books

compared to the present day in contrast to now

Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall

more open layout less cluttered

greater emphasis on more focus on

self-service place where you can look up / check-out yourself

recreation having fun

reorganized changed around

entrance place to go in

unchanged no different

Two decades ago 20 years ago

most noticeable difference biggest change

groupings things that are together

immediately upon entering the library as soon as you get into the library

no longer there today not there any more

To the left of on the left side of

reading room place to read

contained has

transformed into changed to

Above that over that

adult fiction books for adults

reference books books to look things up, encyclopedias

previously for media such as before for entertainment like

moved from the opposite corner over to the other side in the same place

expanded to allow for sofas made bigger for couches

storytelling events telling stories to kids

The former location of where it was before

upper left side of top left part

lectures talks

directly above right over

long information desk big place to find out information

self-service machines where you can do it yourself

final addition last thing added

taken the place of replaced

enquiry desk place to ask questions

returns and other questions give back books and make queries

Pronunciation

Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:

ˈdaɪəɡræm ˈdiːteɪlz 
ˈsɛntrəl ˈlaɪbrəri flɔː plæn 
kəmˈpeəd tuː ðə ˈprɛzᵊnt deɪ 
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
mɔːr ˈəʊpən ˈleɪaʊt 
ˈɡreɪtər ˈɛmfəsɪs ɒn 
sɛlf-ˈsɜːvɪs 
ˌrɛkriˈeɪʃᵊn 
ˌriːˈɔːɡənaɪzd 
ˈɛntrəns 
ʌnˈʧeɪnʤd 
tuː ˈdɛkeɪdz əˈɡəʊ 
məʊst ˈnəʊtɪsəbᵊl ˈdɪfrəns 
ˈɡruːpɪŋz 
ɪˈmiːdiətli əˈpɒn ˈɛntərɪŋ ðə ˈlaɪbrəri 
nəʊ ˈlɒŋɡə ðeə təˈdeɪ 
tuː ðə lɛft ɒv 
ˈriːdɪŋ ruːm 
kənˈteɪnd 
trænsˈfɔːmd ˈɪntuː 
əˈbʌv ðæt 
ˈædʌlt ˈfɪkʃᵊn 
ˈrɛfrəns bʊks 
ˈpriːviəsli fɔː ˈmiːdiə sʌʧ æz 
muːvd frɒm ði ˈɒpəzɪt ˈkɔːnə 
ɪksˈpændɪd tuː əˈlaʊ fɔː ˈsəʊfəz 
ˈstɔːrɪˌtɛlə ɪˈvɛnts 
ðə ˈfɔːmə ləʊˈkeɪʃᵊn ɒv 
ˈʌpə lɛft saɪd ɒv 
ˈlɛkʧəz 
dɪˈrɛktli əˈbʌv 
lɒŋ ˌɪnfəˈmeɪʃᵊn dɛsk 
sɛlf-ˈsɜːvɪs məˈʃiːnz 
ˈfaɪnl əˈdɪʃᵊn 
ˈteɪkən ðə pleɪs ɒv 
ɪnˈkwaɪəri dɛsk 
rɪˈtɜːnz ænd ˈʌðə ˈkwɛsʧənz 

Vocabulary Practice

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 d________m d_____s a c____________________n twenty years ago c_______________o t_________________y. L___________________________________________________________t the library has a m_____________t and there is g__________________n technology, s___________e, and r__________n. All rooms have been r______________d and only the e_______e is u__________d.

T_________________o, the m__________________________e was two g________s of tables and chairs i________________________________y that are n____________________y. T_______________f the chairs there was a r______________m that c_________d newspapers and magazines that has now been t________________o a computer room. A__________t there used to be a____________n but now this open area contains all the library’s r__________________s. The final rooms on the left side were p________________________s CDs, videos, and games but now the children’s area has m___________________________r and e______________________s and s______________________s.

T__________________f the children’s area on the u___________________f the library is now a room for l_________s which is d___________e a space with adult fiction, a l_______________k, and 3 s_________________s. The f_____________________n is a café that has t____________________f an e______________k for r_______________________________s.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:

https://www.architecturaldigest.com/gallery/home-libraries-slideshow

Speaking Practice

Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:

Reading

  1. Do you enjoy reading?
  2. What kinds of books do you like?
  3. Do you have a favorite author?
  4. Is reading a popular pastime in your country?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS chart below: