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 population in four Asian countries from 1970 to 2040.
IELTS Cambridge 18: Population in Four Asian Countries
The graph gives information about the percentage of the population if four different Asian countries living in cities between 1970 and 2020 with additional predictions for 2030 and 2040.
Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features and making comparisons where relevant.
The line chart delineates population trends as they relate to urban residency in four Asian countries starting in 1970 with projections through 2040. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that living in urban areas will increase in each nation, particularly Malaysia and the Philippines. By the end of the period, Malaysia will have by far the greatest proportion of their population living in cities.
In 1970, the percentages for urban residents in the Philippines and Malaysia were nearly equal (31% and 30% for each), similar to the data for Thailand and Indonesia (19% and 12%, respectively). Over the next twenty years, Malaysia’s percentage rose and fluctuated, switching relative positions with the Philippines around the 40% marker before beginning a dramatic surge in 1990 that is anticipated to continue and plateau at just over 80% by 2040. The Philippines, in contrast, declined moderately after 1980, though this figure will likely recover and end at a high of above 50% in 2040.
The statistics for urban residency in Indonesia have grown considerably, overtaking Thailand in 2000 (at 28%) and the Philippines in 2010 (at 42%). This pattern is projected to persist with the final figure the second highest among all nations at 55%. Lastly, Thailand has experienced the most gradual and consistent increase to reach approximately 30% in the present day, with a more rapid rise to over 40% expected over the next 17 years.
Analysis
1. The line chart delineates population trends as they relate to urban residency in four Asian countries starting in 1970 with projections through 2040. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that living in urban areas will increase in each nation, particularly Malaysia and the Philippines. 3. By the end of the period, Malaysia will have by far the greatest proportion of their population living in cities.
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 1970, the percentages for urban residents in the Philippines and Malaysia were nearly equal (31% and 30% for each), similar to the data for Thailand and Indonesia (19% and 12%, respectively). 2. Over the next twenty years, Malaysia’s percentage rose and fluctuated, switching relative positions with the Philippines around the 40% marker before beginning a dramatic surge in 1990 that is anticipated to continue and plateau at just over 80% by 2040. 3. The Philippines, in contrast, declined moderately after 1980, though this figure will likely recover and end at a high of above 50% in 2040.
Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
Compare between each sentence.
Add as much detail as possible.
1. The statistics for urban residency in Indonesia have grown considerably, overtaking Thailand in 2000 (at 28%) and the Philippines in 2010 (at 42%). 2. This pattern is projected to persist with the final figure the second highest among all nations at 55%. 3. Lastly, Thailand has experienced the most gradual and consistent increase to reach approximately 30% in the present day, with a more rapid rise to over 40% expected over the next 17 years.
Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
Compare the categories.
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 line chart delineates population trends as they relate tourban residency in four Asian countries starting in 1970 with projections through 2040. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that living in urban areas will increase in each nation, particularly Malaysia and the Philippines. By the end of the period, Malaysia will have by far the greatest proportion of their population living in cities.
In 1970, the percentages for urban residents in the Philippines and Malaysia were nearly equal (31% and 30% for each), similar to the data for Thailand and Indonesia (19% and 12%, respectively). Over the next twenty years, Malaysia’s percentage rose and fluctuated, switching relative positions with the Philippines around the 40% marker before beginning a dramatic surge in 1990 that is anticipated to continue and plateau at just over 80% by 2040. The Philippines, in contrast, declined moderately after 1980, though this figure will likely recover and end at a high of above 50% in 2040.
The statistics for urban residency in Indonesia have grown considerably, overtaking Thailand in 2000 (at 28%) and the Philippines in 2010 (at 42%). This pattern is projected to persist with the final figure the second highest among all nations at 55%. Lastly, Thailand has experienced the most gradual and consistent increase to reach approximately 30% in the present day, with a more rapid rise to over 40% expected over the next 17 years.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
delineates shows
population trends the pattern for the number of people in a country
relate to concern
urban residency people living in cities
starting in beginning
with projections through showing predictions for the future
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall
urban areas cities
particularly especially
By the end of the period at the end of the time surveyed
by far the greatest proportion of their population living in cities a lot higher than the percentages for people living in cities in other countries
nearly equal about the same
respectively in turn, for each
rose grew
fluctuated was erratic, not stable
switching relative positions changing which one is leading
marker before beginning a dramatic surge in level prior to starting to grow quickly
anticipated to continue and plateau at just over predicted to keep going and level off at above
in contrast in comparison
declined moderately after went down a bit after
though however
will likely recover will probably come back up
end at a high of above finish at a high point over
statistics numbers
urban residency people living in cities
grown considerably increased a lot
overtaking getting bigger than
pattern trend
projected to persist predicted to continue
the final figure the ending number
among all covering all the countries
Lastly finally
experienced witnessed, underwent
most gradual and consistent increase slowest and steadiest rise
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
The line chart d____________s p__________________s as they r_________ou_______________y in four Asian countries s____________n 1970 w___________________h 2040. L______________________________________________________________t living in u___________s will increase in each nation, p__________y Malaysia and the Philippines. B________________d, Malaysia will have b___________________________________________________________________________s.
In 1970, the percentages for urban residents in the Philippines and Malaysia were n__________l (31% and 30% for each), similar to the data for Thailand and Indonesia (19% and 12%, r_________y). Over the next twenty years, Malaysia’s percentage r____e and f____________d, s__________________s with the Philippines around the 40% m_______________________________________n 1990 that is a___________________________________________r 80% by 2040. The Philippines, i_______________t, d_____________________________r 1980, t________h this figure w__________________r and e______________________e 50% in 2040.
The s____________s for u________________y in Indonesia have g____________________y, o___________g Thailand in 2000 (at 28%) and the Philippines in 2010 (at 42%). This p___________n is p_________________t with t_____________________e the second highest a____________l nations at 55%. L______y, Thailand has e______________d the m_________________________________e to r___________________y 30% in the present day, with a m________________e to over 40% e___________________t 17 years.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the newest IELTS Cambridg 18 book of past tests on the topic of university students and main subjects.
Be sure to sign up for my full IELTS EBooks here to support my efforts to keep writing these essays for students:
IELTS Cambridge 18: University Students and Main Subjects
Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Many university students are now inclined to divide their time between studying for their major and pursuing interests in unrelated subjects. In my opinion, it is crucial for undergraduates to learn about a wide range of disciplines in order to best prepare themselves for the future.
Those who support prioritizing one’s major argue the importance of specialization. At university, there are a range of potential distractions related to social life and living on one’s own. If a graduate wants to be successful in a future career, the most logical pathway is to prepare diligently in a one specialization. For instance, an undergraduate learning about chemical engineering will be a better potential candidate for well-paid positions if they have acquired a solid theoretical foundation and accumulated whatever practical experience is available in their courses. Any diversions that detract from this focus could hinder their early career progression.
However, it is in fact more valuable long-term to view learning as an interdisciplinary experience. Many graduates will change or at least alter their professions as they begin working. Even those who remain in the same industry will benefit greatly from studying a variety of subjects. The above-mentioned engineer might be able to study about figure drawing outside their main courses and come up with more creative ideas that combine multiple subjects in their main work. Even if the other subjects are not directly applicable to work, at the minimum they are likely to feel they have become a more diverse and well-rounded individual on a personal level.
In conclusion, though time spent on one’s university major can lead to an improved discrete skillset, there is far greater value in possessing a breadth of knowledge. This range of information will serve as the foundation for a potentially more creative and fulfilling career and personal life.
Analysis
1. Many university students are now inclined to divide their time between studying for their major and pursuing interests in unrelated subjects. 2. In my opinion, it is crucial for undergraduates to learn about a wide range of disciplines in order to best prepare themselves for the future.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who support prioritizing one’s major argue the importance of specialization. 2. At university, there are a range of potential distractions related to social life and living on one’s own. 3. If a graduate wants to be successful in a future career, the most logical pathway is to prepare diligently in a one specialization. 4. For instance, an undergraduate learning about chemical engineering will be a better potential candidate for well-paid positions if they have acquired a solid theoretical foundation and accumulated whatever practical experience is available in their courses. 5. Any diversions that detract from this focus could hinder their early career progression.
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, it is in fact more valuable long-term to view learning as an interdisciplinary experience. 2. Many graduates will change or at least alter their professions as they begin working. 3. Even those who remain in the same industry will benefit greatly from studying a variety of subjects. 4. The above-mentioned engineer might be able to study about figure drawing outside their main courses and come up with more creative ideas that combine multiple subjects in their main work. 5. Even if the other subjects are not directly applicable to work, at the minimum they are likely to feel they have become a more diverse and well-rounded individual on a personal 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.
Finish the paragraph strong.
1. In conclusion, though time spent on one’s university major can lead to an improved discrete skillset, there is far greater value in possessing a breadth of knowledge. 2. This range of information will serve as the foundation for a potentially more creative and fulfilling career and personal life.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many university students are now inclined to divide their time between studying for their major and pursuing interests in unrelated subjects. In my opinion, it is crucial for undergraduates to learn about a wide range of disciplines in order to best prepare themselves for the future.
Those who support prioritizing one’s major argue the importance of specialization. At university, there are a range of potential distractions related tosocial life and living on one’s own. If a graduate wants to be successful in a future career, the most logical pathway is to prepare diligently in a one specialization. For instance, an undergraduate learning about chemical engineering will be a better potential candidate for well-paid positions if they have acquired a solid theoretical foundation and accumulated whatever practical experience is available in their courses. Any diversions that detract from this focus could hinder their early career progression.
However, it is in fact more valuable long-term to view learning as an interdisciplinary experience. Many graduates will change or at least alter their professions as they begin working. Even those who remain in the same industry will benefit greatly from studying a variety of subjects. The above-mentioned engineer might be able to study about figure drawing outside their main courses and come up with more creative ideas that combine multiple subjects in their main work. Even if the other subjects are not directly applicable to work, at the minimum they are likely to feel they have become a more diverse and well-rounded individual on a personal level.
In conclusion, though time spent on one’s university major can lead to an improved discrete skillset, there is far greater value in possessing a breadth of knowledge. This range of information will serve as the foundation for a potentially more creative and fulfilling career and personal life.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
now inclined to divide their time between studying for their major and these days like to split time on their main subject and other subjects
pursuing interests in unrelated subjects looking into different subject areas
it is crucial for undergraduates important for students at university
wide range of disciplines lots of different subjects
in order to so that
best prepare better get ready for
Those who support prioritizing one’s major argue the people in favor of focusing on just their main subject
importance value
specialization focusing on one area
range of potential distractions related tosocial life lots of possible ways to not focus concerning personal life
living on one’s own not living with parents
successful doing well
most logical pathway clearest way
prepare diligently get ready carefully
chemical engineering working with chemicals to make things
better potential candidate good applicants
well-paid positions good jobs
acquired get
solid theoretical foundation good understanding of the basics of a subject
accumulated whatever practical experience is available in their courses get real-life experience from their classes
diversions distractions
detract distract
focus concentration
hinder their early career progression hurt how well they do in their first job
long-term in the future
view learning see studying
interdisciplinary experience studying lots of different subjects
graduates people who finish school
at least alter at minimum change a it
professions jobs
remain in the same industry stay in the same area
benefit greatly get a lot from
studying a variety of subjects learning lots of areas
above-mentioned engineer worker I talked about before
figure drawing learning to draw people
come up with think of
creative ideas imaginative concepts
multiple many
directly applicable to work can be use at work
at the minimum at least
diverse different
well-rounded overall strong, balanced
on a personal level personally, related to private life
improved discrete skillset better at certain skills
far greater value in more importance from
breadth of knowledge lots of information, knowing about many different subjects
serve as the foundation as the basis for
potentially more creative and fulfilling career and personal life possible a better job and private life
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many university students are n____________________________________________________________d p_____________________n u________________s. In my opinion, i____________________________s to learn about a w____________________s i____________o b_____________e themselves for the future.
T_________________________________________________e the i____________e of s_____________n. At university, there are a r________________________________s r____________os____________e and l___________________n. If a graduate wants to be s___________l in a future career, the m____________________y is to p________________y in a one s______________n. For instance, an undergraduate learning about c_________________________g will be a b_________________________e for w_________________s if they have a___________d a s___________________________n and a_____________________________________________________________s. Any d____________s that d_______t from this f______s could h_______________________________________n.
However, it is in fact more valuable l__________m to v____________g as an i____________________________e. Many g____________s will change or a____________r their p___________s as they begin working. Even those who r________________________________y will b_____________y from s_______________________________s. The a________________________________r might be able to study about f__________________g outside their main courses and c________________h more c___________________s that combine m_________e subjects in their main work. Even if the other subjects are not d________________________k, a________________m they are likely to feel they have become a more d________e and w______________d individual o____________________l.
In conclusion, though time spent on one’s university major can lead to an i__________________________t, there is f________________n possessing a b__________________e. This range of information will s________________________n for a p_____________________________________________________________________e.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
The bar chart compares the figures for waste collection in four categories at a recycling center between 2011 and 2015. Overall, it is noticeable that waste collected for all areas increased, in particular for paper waste which was generally highest throughout the period. In contrast, garden and tin waste were less commonly recycled.
There was a consistent decrease for the amount of paper waste (from 57 tons to 40 tons) from 2011 to 2013, however, the data increased dramatically for the rest of the period and ended at 70 tons. Similarly, in 2011, the figure for glass waste was 48 tons and witnessed a negligible decrease (reaching 41 tons) in 2012. The figure then recovered to its initial number, overtaking the statistic for paper waste in 2013, and fluctuated around 50 tons for the rest of the time surveyed.
The number for tin waste was erratic around 35 tons for the 5-year-period and reached 39 tons in 2015. Garden waste was slightly lower, dropping from 32 tons to 15 tons in 2012, before rebounding to 31 tons the next year and finishing at 35 tons.
Analysis
1. The bar chart compares the figures for waste collection in four categories at a recycling center between 2011 and 2015. 2. Overall, it is noticeable that waste collected for all areas increased, in particular for paper waste which was generally highest throughout the period. 3. In contrast, garden and tin waste were less commonly recycled.
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. There was a consistent decrease for the amount of paper waste (from 57 tons to 40 tons) from 2011 to 2013, however, the data increased dramatically for the rest of the period and ended at 70 tons. 2. Similarly, in 2011, the figure for glass waste was 48 tons and witnessed a negligible decrease (reaching 41 tons) in 2012. 3. The figure then recovered to its initial number, overtaking the statistic for paper waste in 2013, and fluctuated around 50 tons for the rest of the time surveyed.
Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
Compare between each sentence.
One paragraph can be longer than the other.
1. The number for tin waste was erratic around 35 tons for the 5-year-period and reached 39 tons in 2015. 2. Garden waste was slightly lower, dropping from 32 tons to 15 tons in 2012, before rebounding to 31 tons the next year and finishing at 35 tons.
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 compares the figures for waste collection in four categories at a recycling center between 2011 and 2015. Overall, it is noticeable that waste collected for all areas increased, in particular for paper waste which was generally highest throughout the period. In contrast, garden and tin waste were less commonly recycled.
There was a consistent decrease for the amount of paper waste (from 57 tons to 40 tons) from 2011 to 2013, however, the data increased dramatically for the rest of the period and ended at 70 tons. Similarly, in 2011, the figure for glass waste was 48 tons and witnessed a negligible decrease (reaching 41 tons) in 2012. The figure then recovered to its initial number, overtaking the statistic for paper waste in 2013, and fluctuated around 50 tons for the rest of the time surveyed.
The number for tin waste was erratic around 35 tons for the 5-year-period and reached 39 tons in 2015. Garden waste was slightly lower, dropping from 32 tons to 15 tons in 2012, before rebounding to 31 tons the next year and finishing at 35 tons.
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
figures for waste collection numbers related to trash taken
recycling center place to recycle trash
Overall, it is noticeable that in general, we can see that
in particular especially
generally highest throughout the period usually the most the whole time
In contrast in comparison to
less commonly recycled not recycled as much
consistent decrease for steady fall for
increased dramatically for the rest of the period and ended at went up a lot for the remainder of the time and finished at
Similarly not different from
witnessed a negligible decrease experienced a small drop
reaching getting to
The figure then recovered to its initial number the number got back to the previous point
overtaking going past
statistic data
fluctuated around was erratic near
for the rest of the time surveyed the remainder of the time detailed
erratic unstable
slightly lower a little less than
dropping from … to … falling from one number to another
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 c__________s the f_________________n in four categories at a r______________r between 2011 and 2015. O_______________________t waste collected for all areas increased, i____________r for paper waste which was g________________________________d. I_____________t, garden and tin waste were l_____________________d.
There was a c________________________r the amount of paper waste (from 57 tons to 40 tons) from 2011 to 2013, however, the data i_____________________________________________t 70 tons. S__________y, in 2011, the figure for glass waste was 48 tons and w__________________________e (r________g 41 tons) in 2012. T_______________________________________________r, o___________g the s___________c for paper waste in 2013, and f______________________d 50 tons f________________________________d.
The number for tin waste was e________c around 35 tons for the 5-year-period and reached 39 tons in 2015. Garden waste was s____________r, d_______________m 32 tons t___ 15 tons in 2012, b______________________o 31 tons the next year and f_____________t 35 tons.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Fossil fuels are the main source of energy around the world today. In some countries, the use of alternative sources of energy is replacing fossil fuels.
Is this a positive or negative development?
Many nations are now supporting the adoption of various energy alternatives in order to reduce fossil fuel consumption. In my opinion, though there may be short-term economic downsides, this is a decidedly positive development due to the implications on the environment generally.
Those who feel the sudden adoption of alternative energies is a negative point out the financial repercussions. There are economies around the world that are currently dependent on exporting fossil fuels, in particular in The Middle East, South America, and Eastern Europe. Many of these countries are still developing and have few other natural resources or industries that could replace a decline in the energy sector. The economic effects will extend far beyond exporters though. Both developed and developing nations ranging from The United States and Vietnam to China and Russia exploit oil for private vehicles and various industries. Substituting cheap oil for a more expensive alternative might result in economic catastrophe with wide-ranging repercussions.
However, the environmental effect is overwhelmingly more important for the long-term health of the planet. The economic results of less dependence on fossil fuels will cause short-term problems but the issues caused by climate change are also becoming a present reality. For instance, there has been a rise in the number of cataclysmic natural disasters related to rising ocean temperatures and deforestation. Even more troubling are the less noticed problems such as habitats being destroyed in remote areas like Antarctica and the Amazon Rainforest. Beyond the animals becoming endangered and extinct, it is only a number of years before human life is affected. This existential threat is the reason alternative energies are a pressing need.
In conclusion, despite the economic drawbacks of a sudden shift to alternative power sources, this reorientation will have a markedly positive long-term impact on the environment. Governments should therefore implement and bolster alternative energy initiatives.
Analysis
1. Many nations are now supporting the adoption of various energy alternatives in order to reduce fossil fuel consumption. 2. In my opinion, though there may be short-term economic downsides, this is a decidedly positive development due to the implications on the environment generally.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who feel the sudden adoption of alternative energies is a negative point out the financial repercussions. 2. There are economies around the world that are currently dependent on exporting fossil fuels, in particular in The Middle East, South America, and Eastern Europe. 3. Many of these countries are still developing and have few other natural resources or industries that could replace a decline in the energy sector. 4. The economic effects will extend far beyond exporters though. Both developed and developing nations ranging from The United States and Vietnam to China and Russia exploit oil for private vehicles and various industries. 5. Substituting cheap oil for a more expensive alternative might result in economic catastrophe with wide-ranging repercussions.
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.
1. However, the environmental effect is overwhelmingly more important for the long-term health of the planet. 2. The economic results of less dependence on fossil fuels will cause short-term problems but the issues caused by climate change are also becoming a present reality. 3. For instance, there has been a rise in the number of cataclysmic natural disasters related to rising ocean temperatures and deforestation. 4. Even more troubling are the less noticed problems such as habitats being destroyed in remote areas like Antarctica and the Amazon Rainforest. 5. Beyond the animals becoming endangered and extinct, it is only a number of years before human life is affected. 6. This existential threat is the reason alternative energies are a pressing need.
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, despite the economic drawbacks of a sudden shift to alternative power sources, this reorientation will have a markedly positive long-term impact on the environment. 2. Governments should therefore implement and bolster alternative energy initiatives.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many nations are now supporting the adoption of various energy alternatives in order to reduce fossil fuel consumption. In my opinion, though there may be short-term economic downsides, this is a decidedly positive development due to the implications on the environment generally.
Those who feel the sudden adoption of alternative energies is a negative point out the financial repercussions. There are economies around the world that are currently dependent on exporting fossil fuels, in particular in The Middle East, South America, and Eastern Europe. Many of these countries are still developing and have few other natural resources or industries that could replace a decline in the energy sector. The economic effects will extend far beyond exporters though. Both developed and developing nations ranging from The United States and Vietnam to China and Russia exploit oil for private vehicles and various industries. Substituting cheap oil for a more expensive alternative might result in economic catastrophe with wide-ranging repercussions.
However, the environmental effect is overwhelmingly more important for the long-term health of the planet. The economic results of less dependence on fossil fuels will cause short-term problems but the issues caused by climate change are also becoming a present reality. For instance, there has been a rise in the number of cataclysmic natural disasters related to rising ocean temperatures and deforestation. Even more troubling are the less noticed problems such as habitats being destroyed in remote areas like Antarctica and the Amazon Rainforest. Beyond the animals becoming endangered and extinct, it is only a number of years before human life is affected. This existential threat is the reason alternative energies are a pressing need.
In conclusion, despite the economic drawbacks of a sudden shift to alternative power sources, this reorientation will have a markedly positive long-term impact on the environment. Governments should therefore implement and bolster alternative energy initiatives.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
supporting helping
adoption of various energy alternatives use cleaner energies
reduce fossil fuel consumption use less fuel/oil
short-term economic downsides right now how it hurts the economy
decidedly positive development due to definitely good change because
implications results, what happens after
Those who feel the sudden adoption of alternative energies is a negative point out people in favor of more alternative energies argue
financial repercussions economic results
economies finances in a country
currently dependent right now reliant on
exporting fossil fuels sending oil abroad
in particular especially
few other natural resources or industries not many other sources of money
replace a decline in the energy sector substitute a drop in energy-related businesses
extend far beyond exporters though go far past the countries sending out oil
ranging from … to … and … including
exploit oil take advantage of fuel, petrol
private vehicles cars, motorbikes, etc.
Substituting …for changing for
economic catastrophe hurts finances a lot
wide-ranging repercussions effects on lots of areas
overwhelmingly very strong
long-term health of the planet the environment in the future
less dependence on fossil fuels not as reliant on oil
cause short-term problems hurt right now
present reality how the situation is now
rise increase
cataclysmic natural disasters related to rising ocean temperatures really bad storms caused by hotter seas
deforestation cutting down forests
Even more troubling are in fact much worse is
less noticed problems not as apparent issues
habitats where animals live
remote areas places far from cities
Beyond past
endangered not many left
extinct all gone
existential threat risk to their existence
pressing need really important now, an emergency
despite the economic drawbacks of a sudden shift to alternative power sources regardless of the financial downsides of a change to cleaner energy
reorientation shift
markedly positive long-term impact on definitely good for the future effect on
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many nations are now s___________g the a_____________________________________s in order to r___________________________n. In my opinion, though there may be s________________________s, this is a d_______________________________________o the i____________s on the environment generally.
T_______________________________________________________________________________t the f_____________________s. There are e_____________s around the world that are c_________________t on e______________________________s, i_______________r in The Middle East, South America, and Eastern Europe. Many of these countries are still developing and have f___________________________________s that could r__________________________________________r. The economic effects will e________________________________h. Both developed and developing nations r______________m The United States and Vietnam t___ China a___d Russia e______________l for p___________________s and various industries. S_______________g cheap oil f___r a more expensive alternative might result in e_______________________e with w__________________________s.
However, the environmental effect is o_____________________y more important for the l___________________________________t. The economic results of l_________________s will c_____________________________s but the issues caused by climate change are also becoming a p_________________y. For instance, there has been a r____e in the number of c______________________________________________________s and d______________n. E_______________________e the l________________________s such as h___________s being destroyed in r________________s like Antarctica and the Amazon Rainforest. B__________d the animals becoming e_____________d and e________t, it is only a number of years before human life is affected. This e_____________________t is the reason alternative energies are a p________________d.
In conclusion, d_____________________________________________________________________s, this r_____________n will have a m______________________________n the environment. Governments should therefore i____________t and b__________r alternative energy i____________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Some countries have introduced laws to limit the working hours that an employer can ask from an employee.
Why are these law introduced?
Is this a positive or negative trend?
In many countries, it is common for the state to constrain the number of hours a person can work within any given day. In my opinion, this law is designed to discourage exploitation and is decidedly positive overall.
The main reason the average workday is limited by law is that otherwise companies could take advantage of their employees. The evidence for this comes from past centuries before such laws were passed. Around the beginning of the industrial revolution, it was a common practice in European countries for individuals to work 12 to 16 hours a day. If an employee protested then they might be fired or even physically harmed. Today, there are very few countries where corporations have the ability to make inhumane physical and mental demands on employees.
Limiting a person’s working laws is beneficial to society as it ensures workers have time for themselves. In countries where these laws do not exist or are poorly defined, there may still be instances of child labor or long working days. For example, in several East Asian countries, factory workers must live and work at their jobs with little opportunity for an outside life. In contrast, in countries with strict labor laws, a person possesses more time for family, hobbies, and friends. Free time is one way of guaranteeing better quality of life and overall satisfaction, benefits which can have ramifications for society as a whole.
In conclusion, laws related to working conditions protect workers and for that reason are positive. It is also essential that countries enforce the laws they have passed.
Analysis
1. In many countries, it is common for the state to constrain the number of hours a person can work within any given day. 2. In my opinion, this law is designed to discourage exploitation and is decidedly positive overall.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The main reason the average workday is limited by law is that otherwise companies could take advantage of their employees. 2. The evidence for this comes from past centuries before such laws were passed. 3. Around the beginning of the industrial revolution, it was a common practice in European countries for individuals to work 12 to 16 hours a day. 4. If an employee protested then they might be fired or even physically harmed. 5. Today, there are very few countries where corporations have the ability to make inhumane physical and mental demands on employees.
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.
1. Limiting a person’s working laws is beneficial to society as it ensures workers have time for themselves. 2. In countries where these laws do not exist or are poorly defined, there may still be instances of child labor or long working days. 3. For example, in several East Asian countries, factory workers must live and work at their jobs with little opportunity for an outside life. 4. In contrast, in countries with strict labor laws, a person possesses more time for family, hobbies, and friends. 5. Free time is one way of guaranteeing better quality of life and overall satisfaction, benefits which can have ramifications for society as a whole.
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, laws related to working conditions protect workers and for that reason are positive. 2. It is also essential that countries enforce the laws they have passed.
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.
In many countries, it is common forthe state to constrain the number of hours a person can work within any given day. In my opinion, this law is designed to discourage exploitation and is decidedly positive overall.
The main reason the average workday is limited by law is that otherwise companies could take advantage of their employees. The evidence for this comes from past centuries before such laws were passed. Around the beginning of the industrial revolution, it was a common practice in European countries for individuals to work 12 to 16 hours a day. If an employee protested then they might be fired or even physically harmed. Today, there are very few countries where corporations have the ability to make inhumane physical and mental demands on employees.
Limiting a person’s working laws is beneficial to society as it ensures workers have time for themselves. In countries where these laws do not exist or are poorly defined, there may still be instances of child labor or long working days. For example, in several East Asian countries, factory workers must live and work at their jobs with little opportunity for an outside life. In contrast, in countries with strict labor laws, a person possesses more time for family, hobbies, and friends. Free time is one way of guaranteeing better quality of life and overall satisfaction, benefits which can have ramifications for society as a whole.
In conclusion, laws related to working conditions protect workers and for that reason are positive. It is also essential that countries enforce the laws they have passed.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
it is common for it happens a lot
the state the government
constrain limit
within any given day on a random day
designed to discourage exploitation for the reason of preventing taking advantage of
limited by law constrained by legal rules
otherwise instead of that
take advantage of their employees exploit workers
The evidence for this comes from past centuries proof is from the past
Around the beginning of the industrial revolutionwhen the world started to develop technology and industry
it was a common practice in it happened a lot in
protested demonstrate against
fired laid off
even physically harmed maybe hurt their body
Today now
corporations companies
inhumane physical and mental demands on employees cruel expectations on workers
beneficial good
ensures makes sure of
have time for themselves have free time
do not exist not in the real world
poorly defined hard to pinpoint, not exact
instances examples
child labor or long working days kids working or working too long
East Asian countries countries like China, Japan, etc.
little opportunity for an outside life not much of a chance to have free time
strict labor laws strong regulations
possesses has
better quality of life stronger standard of living
overall satisfaction how you feel overall
ramifications for society as a whole effects for everyone
working conditions protect workers the environment keeps employees safe
for that reason thus
essential crucial
enforce make sure the laws are followed
laws they have passed rules put in place / enacted
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:
In many countries, i_________________rt_________e to c_________n the number of hours a person can work w_________________y. In my opinion, this law is d__________________________________n and is decidedly positive overall.
The main reason the average workday is l_________________w is that o____________e companies could t_______________________________s. T_____________________________________________s before such laws were passed. A____________________________________________________n, i___________________________n European countries for individuals to work 12 to 16 hours a day. If an employee p_________d then they might be f_____d or e___________________d. T_____y, there are very few countries where c_____________s have the ability to make i____________________________________________________________s.
Limiting a person’s working laws is b___________l to society as it e_________s workers h___________________________s. In countries where these laws d_______________t or are p______________d, there may still be i____________s of c_____________________________________s. For example, in several E_____________________s, factory workers must live and work at their jobs with l______________________________________e. In contrast, in countries with s_______________________s, a person p__________s more time for family, hobbies, and friends. Free time is one way of guaranteeing b_______________________e and o_________________n, benefits which can have r____________________________________e.
In conclusion, laws related to w___________________________________s and f_________________n are positive. It is also e__________l that countries e_________e the l____________________________d.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
What do you like about your job/school at the moment?
What job would you like to do in the future?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:
Some people say that individuals should change jobs during their working life often while others believe that doing the same job has advantages to individuals, companies, and society.
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