This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay from the new IELTS Cambridge 18 book of past tests on the topic of the number of US households (in millions) by annual income.
The bar chart details the total number of households in the United States categorized by average annual income from the year 2007 to 2015. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that there were rising trends for all income brackets with the exception of those earning in the middle, which was stable. The greatest increase and the highest proportion by the end belonged to those earning the most.
In 2007, those with annual compensations under $25,000 numbered just over 25 million, a figure considerably higher than $50,000-$74,999 (21 million) and $75,000-99,999 (14 million) but beneath those earning $25,000-$49,999 (27 million) and over $100,000 (29 million). Four years later, there was a decline for the wealthiest homes to 26 million, the next wealthiest to 14 million and noticeable rises of around 3 million for the lower income brackets. Only the middle-income group was unchanged throughout the surveyed time period.
By 2015, the number of very wealthy households had surged to 33 million while the two lowest earning demographics fell slightly by about a million each to finish around 26 million. There was a moderate rise for the second highest earning households to end the period at precisely 15 million in total.
Analysis
1. The bar chart details the total number of households in the United States categorized by average annual income from the year 2007 to 2015. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that there were rising trends for all income brackets with the exception of those earning in the middle, which was stable. 3. The greatest increase and the highest proportion by the end belonged to those earning the most.
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 2007, those with annual compensations under $25,000 numbered just over 25 million, a figure considerably higher than $50,000-$74,999 (21 million) and $75,000-99,999 (14 million) but beneath those earning $25,000-$49,999 (27 million) and over $100,000 (29 million). 2. Four years later, there was a decline for the wealthiest homes to 26 million, the next wealthiest to 14 million and noticeable rises of around 3 million for the lower income brackets. 3. Only the middle-income group was unchanged throughout the surveyed time period.
Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
Compare between each sentence.
Add as much detail as possible.
1. By 2015, the number of very wealthy households had surged to 33 million while the two lowest earning demographics fell slightly by about a million each to finish around 26 million. 2. There was a moderate rise for the second highest earning households to end the period at precisely 15 million in total.
Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
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 bar chart details the total number of households in the United States categorized by average annual income from the year 2007 to 2015. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that there were rising trends for all income brackets with the exception of those earning in the middle, which was stable. The greatest increase and the highest proportion by the end belonged to those earning the most.
In 2007, those with annual compensations under $25,000 numbered just over 25 million, a figure considerably higher than $50,000-$74,999 (21 million) and $75,000-99,999 (14 million) but beneath those earning $25,000-$49,999 (27 million) and over $100,000 (29 million). Four years later, there was a decline for the wealthiest homes to 26 million, the next wealthiest to 14 million and noticeable rises of around 3 million for the lower income brackets. Only the middle-income group was unchanged throughout the surveyed time period.
By 2015, the number of very wealthy households had surged to 33 million while the two lowest earning demographics fell slightly by about a million each to finish around 26 million. There was a moderate rise for the second highest earning households to end the period at precisely 15 million in total.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
details shows
total number of households
categorized by average annual income grouped by how much earned in a year
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that in general
rising trends for all income brackets with the exception of growth patterns for all groups but not for
stable consistent
The greatest increase the biggest rise
the highest proportion by the end belonged to the majority at the finish was for
earning the most making the most money
annual compensations under money earned in a year less than
numbered just over was a little above
a figure considerably higher than a number much more than
later after that
there was a decline for the wealthiest homes to the richest houses fell to
the next wealthiest the second richest
noticeable rises of big increases constituting
lower income brackets people earning less money
unchanged throughout the surveyed time period was stable the whole time
very wealthy households rich homes
surged increased a lot
while in contrast
two lowest earning demographics fell slightly by people who made the least went down a little in the year
each both of them
finish around end near
moderate rise small increase
end the period at precisely finish the time at exactly
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 bar chart d______s the t___________________________s in the United States c___________________________________e from the year 2007 to 2015. L____________________________________________________t there were r____________________________________________________________________f those earning in the middle, which was s______e. T___________e and t______________________________________________o those e_____________t.
In 2007, those with a_____________________________r $25,000 n_________________r 25 million, a__________________________________________n $50,000-$74,999 (21 million) and $75,000-99,999 (14 million) but beneath those earning $25,000-$49,999 (27 million) and over $100,000 (29 million). Four years l____r, t________________________________________________o 26 million, t__________________t to 14 million and n_______________________f around 3 million for the l______________________s. Only the middle-income group was u____________________________________________________________d.
By 2015, the number of v______________________s had s_____d to 33 million w_____e the t________________________________________________y about a million e____h to f________________d 26 million. There was a m______________e for the second highest earning households to e____________________________y 15 million i__________l.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new IELTS Cambridge 18 book of past tests on the topic of people living longer and an ageing population.
IELTS Cambridge 18: Living Longer / An Ageing Population
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?
It has become increasingly common today for individuals to live longer than they did in past generations. Although many point out that ageing populations hinder a nation economically, I would argue that the benefits for society as a whole overshadow these perceived drawbacks.
The main reason that many fixate on the negatives associated with an ageing population relates to the financial implications. Governments and companies must both take into account the age of their population and plan accordingly. For instance, Japan has a famously old population that requires the government to make budgetary allowances for better healthcare and shortages in the labor force. The economy more generally in Japan must overcome a shrinking consumer market as young people are more likely to shop, travel, and spend freely. This same situation applies to varying degrees in nearly every country around the world at different moments in their history.
However, the economic effects of an ageing population are less important than the value of older generations. In most societies globally, young people are more progressive and push society forward. Older generations typically serve as a stabilizing ballast that keeps forward momentum from becoming too chaotic. This can take the form of advice given by elders within families to young people or more broadly across the entire political spectrum of a country. Although this conservatism can feel limiting to younger generations at first, most would admit as they get older that the influence of more experienced and wiser family members was generally positive on an individual and societal level.
In conclusion, despite the economic repercussions of older population demographics, I believe that the less tangible benefits for families make this a positive development. Naturally, there are legitimate downsides that must be collectively managed by governments and individuals alike.
Analysis
1. It has become increasingly common today for individuals to live longer than they did in past generations. 2. Although many point out that ageing populations hinder a nation economically, I would argue that the benefits for society as a whole overshadow these perceived drawbacks.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The main reason that many fixate on the negatives associated with an ageing population relates to the financial implications. 2. Governments and companies must both take into account the age of their population and plan accordingly. 3. For instance, Japan has a famously old population that requires the government to make budgetary allowances for better healthcare and shortages in the labor force. 4. The economy more generally in Japan must overcome a shrinking consumer market as young people are more likely to shop, travel, and spend freely. 5. This same situation applies to varying degrees in nearly every country around the world at different moments in their history.
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.
Vary long and short sentences.
1. However, the economic effects of an ageing population are less important than the value of older generations. 2. In most societies globally, young people are more progressive and push society forward. 3. Older generations typically serve as a stabilizing ballast that keeps forward momentum from becoming too chaotic. 4. This can take the form of advice given by elders within families to young people or more broadly across the entire political spectrum of a country. 5. Although this conservatism can feel limiting to younger generations at first, most would admit as they get older that the influence of more experienced and wiser family members was generally positive on an individual and societal level.
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.
Keep adding…
1. In conclusion, despite the economic repercussions of older population demographics, I believe that the less tangible benefits for families make this a positive development. 2. Naturally, there are legitimate downsides that must be collectively managed by governments and individuals alike.
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.
It has become increasingly common today for individuals to live longer than they did in past generations. Although many point out that ageing populations hinder a nation economically, I would argue that the benefits for society as a whole overshadow these perceived drawbacks.
The main reason that many fixate on the negatives associated with an ageing population relates to the financial implications. Governments and companies must both take into account the age of their population and plan accordingly. For instance, Japan has a famously old population that requires the government to make budgetary allowances for better healthcare and shortages in the labor force. The economy more generally in Japan must overcome a shrinking consumer market as young people are more likely to shop, travel, and spend freely. This same situation applies to varying degrees in nearly every country around the world at different moments in their history.
However, the economic effects of an ageing population are less important than the value of older generations. In most societies globally, young people are more progressive and push society forward. Older generations typically serve as a stabilizing ballast that keeps forward momentum from becoming too chaotic. This can take the form of advice given by elders within families to young people or more broadly across the entire political spectrum of a country. Although this conservatism can feel limiting to younger generations at first, most would admit as they get older that the influence of more experienced and wiser family members was generally positive on an individual and societal level.
In conclusion, despite the economic repercussions of older population demographics, I believe that the less tangible benefits for families make this a positive development. Naturally, there are legitimate downsides that must be collectively managed by governments and individuals alike.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
It has become increasingly common today for more and more people do this now
in past generations before
Although despite, however
point out argue
ageing populations hinder a nation economically older demographics in a country hurt it in terms of finances
argue contend
benefits for society as a whole overshadow positives for everyone are stronger than
perceived drawbacks what people think are the bad parts
fixate on focus on
negatives associated with an ageing population bad parts related to having too many old people
financial implications
take into account consider
plan accordingly anticipate as a result
famously old population everyone knows there are lots of old people
make budgetary allowances save money
healthcare hospitals
shortages in the labor force not enough workers
overcome a shrinking consumer market recover from not having shoppers
spend freely use money without thinking much
This same situation applies to varying degrees true somewhat in other places
in nearly every country around the world in almost everywhere in the world
at different moments in their history throughout time
economic effects financial impact
value importance
In most societies globally around the world
progressive liberal, want to move forward
push society forward advance society
serve as a stabilizing ballast keep society from moving too fast
keeps forward momentum from becoming too chaotic stops it from going too quickly
This can take the form of one way this exists is
broadly across the entire political spectrum of a country generally over the social aspects of a nation
conservatism not progressive
limiting keeping back
at first initially
admit concede
influence effect
wiser family members smarter people in a family
generally positive on an individual and societal level overall good for people
despite the economic repercussions of regardless of the effects on finances
population demographics how many people are in a country
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_________________________________________r individuals to live longer than they did i________________s. A_____________h many p_________t that a_______________________________________y, I would a_____e that the b________________________________________w these p_____________________s.
The main reason that many f________n the n______________________________________n relates to the f__________________________s. Governments and companies must both t_______________t the age of their population and p_____________y. For instance, Japan has a f______________________n that requires the government to m___________________s for better h____________e and s_______________________e. The economy more generally in Japan must o________________________________t as young people are more likely to shop, travel, and s____________y. T______________________________________________________s i__________________________________________d a______________________________y.
However, the e_________________s of an ageing population are less important than the v______e of older generations. I__________________________y, young people are more p____________e and p__________________d. Older generations typically s_________________________t that k________________________________________________c. T___________________f advice given by elders within families to young people or more b____________________________________________y. Although this c__________m can feel l__________g to younger generations a________t, most would a_______t as they get older that the i_________e of more experienced and w___________________s was g_______________________________________________________l.
In conclusion, d______________________________________f older p_____________________s, I believe that the l___________________________s for families make this a positive development. N______________y, there are l_____________________s that must be c_______________________y governments and individuals a_____e.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Around the world, rural people are moving to cities and urban areas, so populations in the countryside are decreasing.
Is this a positive or negative development?
It is becoming increasingly common for residents to concentrate in urban areas, rather than the countryside. In my opinion, this is a decidedly negative phenomenon for human society as a whole despite the economic benefits.
Those who support the current prioritization of city life point out how it positively impacts the workforce. When the majority of a population is concentrated, this makes it easier for businesses to operate. For example, in cities such as Tokyo, there are millions of residents in the city itself and the outlying districts. The people support restaurants, cinemas, malls, arcades, parks, and various other recreational areas. These businesses in turn provide jobs for locals and this creates a positive feedback loop and greatly enriches the quality of life for the average person living in a big city. The best evidence for this is the number of people willing to move to cities for superior employment options.
However, the drawbacks associated with city lifestyles are more significant. In past generations, there was greater diversity in terms of where residents lived that enabled more varied lifestyle options. People living in the country were more likely to work outdoors and possess skills related to farming, hunting, and raising livestock. Today, most people live in cities and work corporate jobs and are experts in terms of marketing, finance, business, and customer service. These industries have a place in a healthy society but should not predominate over healthier, more active forms of gainful employment. As the world continues to transition to online-based jobs, the situation will only worsen.
In conclusion, although there are legitimate economic arguments to be made for urban migration, I would argue the effects on how humans live are overwhelmingly negative. Governments should therefore implement policies to encourage more rural infrastructure and economic activity.
Analysis
1. It is becoming increasingly common for residents to concentrate in urban areas, rather than the countryside. 2. In my opinion, this is a decidedly negative phenomenon for human society as a whole despite the economic benefits.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who support the current prioritization of city life point out how it positively impacts the workforce. 2. When the majority of a population is concentrated, this makes it easier for businesses to operate. 3. For example, in cities such as Tokyo, there are millions of residents in the city itself and the outlying districts. 4. The people support restaurants, cinemas, malls, arcades, parks, and various other recreational areas. 5. These businesses in turn provide jobs for locals and this creates a positive feedback loop and greatly enriches the quality of life for the average person living in a big city. 6. The best evidence for this is the number of people willing to move to cities for superior employment options.
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.
Vary long and short sentences.
Finish strong.
1. However, the drawbacks associated with city lifestyles are more significant. 2. In past generations, there was greater diversity in terms of where residents lived that enabled more varied lifestyle options. 3. People living in the country were more likely to work outdoors and possess skills related to farming, hunting, and raising livestock. 4. Today, most people live in cities and work corporate jobs and are experts in terms of marketing, finance, business, and customer service. 5. These industries have a place in a healthy society but should not predominate over healthier, more active forms of gainful employment. 6. As the world continues to transition to online-based jobs, the situation will only worsen.
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.
Keep adding…
Finish the paragraph with even more detail.
1. In conclusion, although there are legitimate economic arguments to be made for urban migration, I would argue the effects on how humans live are overwhelmingly negative. 2. Governments should therefore implement policies to encourage more rural infrastructure and economic activity.
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.
It is becoming increasingly common for residents to concentrate in urban areas, rather than the countryside. In my opinion, this is a decidedly negative phenomenon for human society as a whole despite the economic benefits.
Those who support the current prioritization of city life point out how it positively impacts the workforce. When the majority of a population is concentrated, this makes it easier for businesses to operate. For example, in cities such as Tokyo, there are millions of residents in the city itself and the outlying districts. The people support restaurants, cinemas, malls, arcades, parks, and various other recreational areas. These businesses in turn provide jobs for locals and this creates a positive feedback loop and greatly enriches the quality of life for the average person living in a big city. The best evidence for this is the number of people willing to move to cities for superior employment options.
However, the drawbacks associated with city lifestyles are more significant. In past generations, there was greater diversity in terms of where residents lived that enabled more varied lifestyle options. People living in the country were more likely to work outdoors and possess skills related to farming, hunting, and raising livestock. Today, most people live in cities and work corporate jobs and are experts in terms of marketing, finance, business, and customer service. These industries have a place in a healthy society but should not predominate over healthier, more active forms of gainful employment. As the world continues to transition to online-based jobs, the situation will only worsen.
In conclusion, although there are legitimate economic arguments to be made for urban migration, I would argue the effects on how humans live are overwhelmingly negative. Governments should therefore implement policies to encourage more rural infrastructure and economic activity.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
It is becoming increasingly common for residents more and more people today are
concentrate focus on
urban areas cities
rather than instead of
countryside rural areas
decidedly negative phenomenon for human society as a whole despite the economic benefits definitely bad for all people in general regardless of how it helps the economy
Those who support the current prioritization of city life point out the people in favor of living in cities argue
positively impacts the workforce helps people in terms of jobs
the majority of a most of
makes it easier for is not as hard to
operate work in that area
residents people living there
outlying districts suburbs
arcades places to play games
various other recreational areas lots of other things to do for fun
in turn provide as a result give
locals people living in that area
creates a positive feedback loop benefits everyone
greatly enriches the quality of life for the average person makes life better for people
The best evidence for this is the strongest case is
willing to will do it
superior employment options better job choices
the drawbacks associated with the downsides related to
lifestyles how people live
significant meaningful
In past generations before
greater diversity in terms of lots of different people concerning
enabled more varied lifestyle options allowed for different ways of living
work outdoors and possess skills related to farming, hunting, and raising livestock not office jobs and can do agricultural work
work corporate jobs work in an office
experts in terms of marketing, finance, business, and customer service good at advertising and economics and selling things
have a place in a healthy society there is room for them
predominate are most common
healthier better for you
more active forms of gainful employment less passive ways of earning money
transition to online-based jobs change to jobs on computers and the internet
worsen not get better
legitimate economic arguments to be made for strong financial points that can be argued for
migration moving to
overwhelmingly negative very bad
implement policies to encourage more rural infrastructure and economic activity create laws to improve living in the countryside
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 to c_________e in u_________s, r__________n the c__________e. In my opinion, this is a d_________________________________________________________________________________________________s.
T____________________________________________________________________t how it p________________________________e. When t________________a population is concentrated, this m________________________r businesses to o_______e. For example, in cities such as Tokyo, there are millions of r_______s in the city itself and the o______________s. The people support restaurants, cinemas, malls, a__________s, parks, and v________________________s. These businesses i______________e jobs for l_____s and this c____________________________________p and g________________________________________________n living in a big city. T_____________________s the number of people w___________o move to cities for s_________________________s.
However, t__________________________h city l__________s are more s_________t. I____________s, there was g_______________________f where residents lived that e_________________________________s. People living in the country were more likely to w_____________________________________________________________________________k. Today, most people live in cities and w______________s and are e________________________________________________________________________e. These industries h___________________________y but should not p___________e over h________r, m______________________________t. As the world continues to t_________________________________s, the situation will only w______n.
In conclusion, although there are l_____________________________r urban m_________n, I would argue the effects on how humans live are o________________e. Governments should therefore i_______________________________________________________________________________y.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Many people believe that it is easier to have a healthy lifestyle in the countryside. Other believe that there are health benefits to living in cities.
This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay from the new IELTS Cambridge 18 book of past tests on the topic of average monthly change in a line chart showing copper, nickel, and zinc prices.
IELTS Cambridge 18: Average Monthly Change Line Chart
The line chart gives information about the change in monthly prices for copper, nickel and zinc over the course of 2014. Overall, there were declines for the prices of copper and especially nickel, and a moderate rise for zinc. By the end of the period, the changes had become less extreme and nickel clearly experienced the greatest month-to-month volatility.
In January of 2014, the percentage change for nickel based on the previous month was 6%, by far higher than copper (2%) and zinc (1%). This trend reversed for nickel with the percentage changes dropping to 1% by March and a low of -3% by June. The divergences for the other minerals were more moderate with a high of a 3% change for zinc in February before a declining trend over the remainder of the first half of the year. Copper prices similarly fell but were grouped slightly lower around 1% to -1%.
In the second half of the year, nickel production declined (-1% over most months) before a sharp rise to finish the year with 1% increases. Copper, in contrast, hovered near 1% from July onwards with a slight uptick in December. Zinc was marginally lower with .5% drops for the majority of the latter part of the year, prior to a surge to finish with a 2% rise in December, the highest ending point among all mineral prices.
Analysis
1. The line chart gives information about the change in monthly prices for copper, nickel and zinc over the course of 2014. 2. Overall, there were declines for the prices of copper and especially nickel, and a moderate rise for zinc. 3. By the end of the period, the changes had become less extreme and nickel clearly experienced the greatest month-to-month volatility.
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 January of 2014, the percentage change for nickel based on the previous month was 6%, by far higher than copper (2%) and zinc (1%). 2. This trend reversed for nickel with the percentage changes dropping to 1% by March and a low of -3% by June. 3. The divergences for the other minerals were more moderate with a high of a 3% change for zinc in February before a declining trend over the remainder of the first half of the year. 4. Copper prices similarly fell but were grouped slightly lower around 1% to -1%.
Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
Compare between each sentence.
Add as much detail as possible.
This essay is a bit long – aim for about 175 words.
1. In the second half of the year, nickel production declined (-1% over most months) before a sharp rise to finish the year with 1% increases. 2. Copper, in contrast, hovered near 1% from July onwards with a slight uptick in December. 3. Zinc was marginally lower with .5% drops for the majority of the latter part of the year, prior to a surge to finish with a 2% rise in December, the highest ending point among all mineral prices.
Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
Compare the categories.
Better to include all the data than be too short!
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The line chart gives information about the change in monthly prices for copper, nickel and zinc over the course of 2014. Overall, there were declines for the prices of copper and especially nickel, and a moderate rise for zinc. By the end of the period, the changes had become less extreme and nickel clearly experienced the greatest month-to-month volatility.
In January of 2014, the percentage change for nickel based on the previous month was 6%, by far higher than copper (2%) and zinc (1%). This trend reversed for nickel with the percentage changes dropping to 1% by March and a low of -3% by June. The divergences for the other minerals were more moderatewith a high of a 3% change for zinc in February before a declining trendover the remainder of the first half of the year. Copper prices similarly fell but were grouped slightly lower around 1% to -1%.
In the second half of the year, nickel production declined (-1% over most months) before a sharp rise to finish the year with 1% increases. Copper, in contrast, hovered near 1% from July onwards with a slight uptick in December. Zinc was marginally lower with .5% drops for the majority of the latter part of the year, prior to a surge to finish with a 2% rise in December, the highest ending point among all mineral prices.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
gives information about shows
copper a mineral used for making wire
nickel a mineral for making coins
zinc a healthy mineral
over the course of during the entire time
Overall in general
declines goes down
moderate rise small increase
less extreme not as big
clearly experienced the greatest month-to-month volatility definitely changed a lot more each month
based on the previous month from the month before
by far higher than much more than
This trend reversed for this pattern went the other way in terms of
dropping to falling to
a low of low point of
divergences differences
more moderatewith a high of a not as extreme with a top level of
before a declining trendover the remainder of the first half of the year prior to a falling pattern for the rest of the year
similarly fell also decreased
grouped slightly lower around all less at close to
In the second half of the year after July
declined went down
before a sharp rise to finish the year with prior to a surge to end at
in contrast however
hovered near was around
from … onwards starting here and going to here
a slight uptick a little increase
marginally lower with a little less
drops falls
the majority of the latter part of the year most of the rest of the year
prior to a surge to finish with before a big increase to end at
highest ending point among all mineral prices the biggest number for all categories
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 g________________t the change in monthly prices for c_______r, n_____l and z___c o__________________f 2014. O______l, there were d______s for the prices of copper and especially nickel, and a m___________e for zinc. By the end of the period, the changes had become l___________e and nickel c___________________________________________________________________________________________y.
In January of 2014, the percentage change for nickel b_______________________h was 6%, b______________n copper (2%) and zinc (1%). T_______________r nickel with the percentage changes d___________o 1% by March and a_______f -3% by June. The d_________s for the other minerals were m___________________________________a 3% change for zinc in February b__________________________________________________________________r. Copper prices s__________l but were g_______________________________d 1% to -1%.
I____________________________r, nickel production d_________d (-1% over most months) b____________________________________h 1% increases. Copper, i_________t, h___________r 1% f___m July o_________s with a____________k in December. Zinc was m__________________h .5% d_____s for t_________________________________________________r, p_________________________h a 2% rise in December, the h___________________________________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new IELTS Cambridge 18 book of past tests on the topic of the most important aim of science.
IELTS Cambridge 18: The Most Important Aim of Science
The most important aim of science ought to be to improve people’s lives.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some have argued the most crucial aim of science is to improve the lives of ordinary people. In my opinion, though science might have grander aims at times, this simple goal is in fact its primary purpose.
Those who contend that science is not simply a means to improving ordinary life point out scientific inquiry can be a goal in itself. Many scientists do not imagine how their discoveries will benefit the general populace and are instead concerned with discovery and exploration. A standout example of this would be the theories of Charles Darwin, which had little immediate practical purpose other than to understand the origins of the human species. For the average researcher, concentrating solely on learning more about the natural world is a valid and potentially productive mindset. However, this interpretation of science does not reflect the real-world demands placed on science.
Historically, science has always been a platform to improve the daily lives of average individuals. This can be understood in a number of different senses. In terms of medicine, procedures and pharmaceuticals are designed with the explicit purpose of lengthening and elevating quality of life. When it comes to technology, science can be seen as subordinate to the arts and the enjoyment of the average person. The entire purpose of developing technologies such as mobile phones and computers is to allow users to listen to music, watch movies and televisions shows, edit their own videos, engage in word processing, and so on. Therefore, the highest aim of science is ultimately only to provide humans with the means to express themselves and reach others.
In conclusion, since improving life can be interpreted widely, it is decidedly the main aim of science. Those who argue for a more idealistic interpretation are not considering the pragmatism that should be the foundation of all scientific endeavor.
Analysis
1. Some have argued the most crucial aim of science is to improve the lives of ordinary people. 2. In my opinion, though science might have grander aims at times, this simple goal is in fact its primary purpose.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who contend that science is not simply a means to improving ordinary life point out scientific inquiry can be a goal in itself. 2. Many scientists do not imagine how their discoveries will benefit the general populace and are instead concerned with discovery and exploration. 3. A standout example of this would be the theories of Charles Darwin, which had little immediate practical purpose other than to understand the origins of the human species. 4. For the average researcher, concentrating solely on learning more about the natural world is a valid and potentially productive mindset. 5. However, this interpretation of science does not reflect the real-world demands placed on science.
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.
Vary long and short sentences.
1. Historically, science has always been a platform to improve the daily lives of average individuals. 2. This can be understood in a number of different senses. In terms of medicine, procedures and pharmaceuticals are designed with the explicit purpose of lengthening and elevating quality of life. 3. When it comes to technology, science can be seen as subordinate to the arts and the enjoyment of the average person. 4. The entire purpose of developing technologies such as mobile phones and computers is to allow users to listen to music, watch movies and televisions shows, edit their own videos, engage in word processing, and so on. 5. Therefore, the highest aim of science is ultimately only to provide humans with the means to express themselves and reach others.
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, since improving life can be interpreted widely, it is decidedly the main aim of science. 2. Those who argue for a more idealistic interpretation are not considering the pragmatism that should be the foundation of all scientific endeavor.
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.
Some have argued the most crucial aim of science is to improve the lives of ordinary people. In my opinion, though science might have grander aims at times, this simple goal is in fact its primary purpose.
Those who contend that science is not simply a means to improving ordinary life point out scientific inquiry can be a goal in itself. Many scientists do not imagine how their discoveries will benefit the general populace and are instead concerned with discovery and exploration. A standout example of this would be the theories of Charles Darwin, which had little immediate practical purpose other than to understand the origins of the human species. For the average researcher, concentrating solely on learning more about the natural world is a valid and potentially productive mindset. However, this interpretation of science does not reflect the real-world demands placed on science.
Historically, science has always been a platform to improve the daily lives of average individuals. This can be understood in a number of different senses. In terms of medicine, procedures and pharmaceuticals are designed with the explicit purpose of lengthening and elevating quality of life. When it comes to technology, science can be seen as subordinate to the arts and the enjoyment of the average person. The entire purpose of developingtechnologies such as mobile phones and computers is to allow users to listen to music, watch movies and televisions shows, edit their own videos, engage in word processing, and so on. Therefore, the highest aim of science is ultimately only to provide humans with the means to express themselves and reach others.
In conclusion, since improving life can be interpreted widely, it is decidedly the main aim of science. Those who argue for a more idealistic interpretation are not considering the pragmatism that should be the foundation of all scientific endeavor.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
argued made the point that
most crucial aim of science key goal of chemistry, biology, technology, physics, astronomy, engineering, etc.
improve the lives of ordinary people make average people have better lives
grander aims at times bigger goals sometimes
simple goal basic aim
in fact actually
primary purpose real reason for it
Those who contend that the people who argue that
improving ordinary life making life better for normal people
scientific inquiry learning about and researching through science
goal in itself no other goal needed
imagine think of
discoveries what they uncover about the world, inventions
general populace people
instead concerned with discovery and exploration in fact caring about learning
A standout example of this would be a clear instance of this is
theories ideas about the world
little immediate practical purpose no real effect in the real world to start
the origins of the human species where people came from, evolution
average researcher a normal scientist
concentrating solely on focusing just on
natural of course
valid and potentially productive mindset legitimate and possible useful way of seeing the world
interpretation of way of seeing something
reflect the real-world demands placed on science show the actual way science exists in the world
Historically in the past
platform place for
daily lives of average individuals how normal people live, standard of living
This can be understood in a number of different senses there’s more than one way to interpret this
In terms of medicine when it comes to health
procedures operations
pharmaceuticals drugs
designed with the explicit purpose of lengthening and elevating quality of life made just to help people living longer and live better
When it comes to concerning
subordinate to the arts serve artistic purposes
The entire purpose of developingtechnologies the only reason to have different kinds of tech
users people using services such as websites
edit their own videos cut up movies
engage in word processing write things
and so on etc.
Therefore thus
the highest aim of the best goal of
ultimately only in the end just
express themselves be artistic
reach distribute to the world at large
interpreted widely understand in many ways, broadly
decidedly definitely
main aim of science the primary reason to do science
more idealistic interpretation lofty way of seeing it
considering given that
pragmatism related to being practical, real life
foundation basis
scientific endeavor learning about and practicing science
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:
Some have a_________d the m_______________________________e is to i________________________________________e. In my opinion, though science might have g______________________s, this s________________l is i_________t its p_______________________e.
T______________________________t science is not simply a means to i_____________________e point out s____________________y can be a g______________f. Many scientists do not i________-_e how their d____________s will benefit the g_______________e and are i___________________________________n. A_________________________________e the t_________s of Charles Darwin, which had l_______________________________e other than to understand t___________________________s. For the a______________________r, c_________________________-n learning more about the n___________l world is a v_____________________________________________________t. However, this i_________________f science does not r_______________________________________________e.
H_______________y, science has always been a p________m to improve the d____________________________s. T__________________________________________________________________s. I_______________________e, p___________s and p_______________s are d____________________________________________________________________________e. W________________o technology, science can be seen as s______________________s and the enjoyment of the average person. T____________________________________________s such as mobile phones and computers is to allow u_______s to listen to music, watch movies and televisions shows, e_______________________s, e__________________________g, a___________n. T__________e, t________________f science is u_______________y to provide humans with the means to e____________________s and r_______h others.
In conclusion, since improving life can be i_________________y, it is d____________y the m____________________e. Those who argue for a m____________________________n are not c_______________g the p_____________m that should be the f_______________n of all s__________________r.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
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