IELTS Topic: Environment

IELTS Topic: Environment

Here all the sample answer IELTS essays that I have written on the topic of the environment!

This includes essays related to pollution, environmental science, factories, climate change/global warming, endangered animals, alternative/clean energy, fossil fuels, recycling, and more.

Some of my environment essays are also available as EBooks here on Patreon.com/howtodoielts.

Enjoy!

Dave

IELTS Environment Topics

Eco-tourism often involves visiting remote and fragile ecosystems, which raises concerns about the impact on local cultures and indigenous communities.

What problems can this cause?

How can these problems be resolved?

Get the full EBook here on Patreon.

In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining.

Why do you think this is happening?

How can this issue be solved?

Read the essay here.

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.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining.

Why do you think this is happening?

How can this issue be solved?

Read the essay here.

Some believe that people should make efforts to fight climate change while others think it is better to learn to live with it.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

It is a natural process for animal species to become extinct (e.g. dinosaurs, dodos, etc.). There is no reason why people should try to prevent this from happening.

Do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Some people believe that wild animals should not be kept in zoos or other man-made environments as there is no longer a need for them in the 21st century.

Do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Nowadays many countries are facing problemsrelated to waste disposal.

Why is this the case?

How can this issue be tackled?

Read the essay here.

It is now possible for scientists and tourists to travel to remote natural environments, such as the South Pole.

Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Read the essay here.

Some think that climate change reforms will negatively affect business. Others feel they are an opportunity for businesses.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

The amount of drinkable water for people is decreasing.

Why is this?

What can be done?

Read the essay here.

In many countries, plastic containers have become more common than ever and are used by many food and drink companies.

Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Read the essay here.

Some people say that supermarkets and manufacturers have a responsibility to reduce the amount of packaging on products they sell. Others believe that it is the consumer’s responsibility to avoid buying products which have a lot of packaging.

Discuss both views and give your opinions.

Read the essay here.

In many countries, people throw away a lot of food from restaurants and shops.

Why do you think people waste food in this way?

What can be done to reduce the amount of food thrown away?

Read the essay here.

The manufacturing and use of cars damages the environment but their popularity is increasing.

Why is this?

How could this be controlled?

Read the essay here.

Some people think that resources should be spent on protecting wild animals, while others think those would be better used for the human population.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

In the future, people may have to live on other planets. Some think that it is therefore important to spend money researching other planets such as Mars.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Many people think that zoos are cruel. Others think they are helpful in protecting rare animals.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

In the future it will become more difficult to live on Earth so more money should be spent researching how to live on other planets such as Mars.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Developing the economy will always damage the environment.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Scientists have been warning for many years about environmental protection and how important it is to limit our personal energy consumption.

What are the causes of the over-consumption of electricity?

How can people be encouraged to use less energy?

Read the essay here.

Most agree that we should be training children to recycle waste to preserve the Earth’s natural resources. However, some believe that it is parents who should teach their children to recycle waste while others feels schools are more responsible.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

More and more people in developing countries are purchasing cars for the first time.

What problems does this cause?

What do you think are the possible solutions?

Read the essay here.

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

Plastic shopping bags are used widely and cause many environmental problems. Some people say they should be banned.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Climate change is a phenomenon that affects countries all over the world. Many people strongly believe that it is the responsibility of individuals, rather than corporations and governments, to deal with this problem.

To what extent do you agree?

Read the essay here.

Some people believe that car-free days are effective ways to reduce air pollution. However, others argue that there are other ways that are more effective.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

It has been suggested that primary children should learn how to grow vegetables and keep animals.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Read the essay here.

Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Read the essay here.

Some people claim that not enough waste from homes is recycled and that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Many cities are now turning parks and farmland into new housing developments.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read the essay here.

Some people claim that too much focus and resources have been spent to protect wild animals and birds.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Some people say that now is the best time in history to be living.

What is your opinion about this?

What other time in history would be interesting to live in?

Read the essay here.

Some people think that the government should strictly control the supply of fresh water, as it is a limited resource, while others it should not be regulated.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Read the essay here.

Some experts say for road safety cyclists should pass a test before being allowed on public roads.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

In many cities, problems related to overpopulation are becoming more common. Some governments are now encouraging businesses and individuals to move out of cities to rural areas.

Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Read the essay here.

Some people prefer activities and lifestyles in hot climates while others prefer living in cold climates.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Read the essay here.

Many wild birds and animals live in towns and cities. Some people think that the wildlife should be protected. Some think that they should be removed.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Read the essay here.

There is too much noise in many public places in cities.

What are the causes of this problem?

What can be done to solve the problem?

Read the essay here.

The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel for cars and other private vehicles.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Many claim that the fast food industry had a negative effect on the environment, eating habits, and families.

To what extend do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Governments should make people responsible for looking after their own local environment.

Do you agree or disagree?

Read the essay here.

Everyone should become vegetarian because they do not need to eat meat to have a healthy diet.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay on Patreon here.

Some say that children should be taught at school to recycling and avoid waste. Others say they should learn this at home.

Discuss both views and give your opinion

Read the essay here.

IELTS Essay: Responsibilities

IELTS Essay: Responsibilities

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of the responsibilities that children should have from the real IELTS exam.

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

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS Essay: Responsibilities

Some people believe that children of all ages should have extra responsibilities (for example, helping at home or at work). Others believe that, outside of school, children should be free to enjoy their lives. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Many today have argued for the importance of children having greater responsibility in the home. I am generally in agreement with this position, though it should naturally not be taken to extremes.

Critics of such an approach maintain that it can overburden young children. In many societies around the world today, children are under immense pressure at school to perform well academically. In many Asian countries, for example, young children must study at school until the late afternoon, have dinner, and then take additional classes before doing their homework each night. If these students were also tasked with cleaning the house or washing their own clothes, they simply would not have enough time to complete all their responsibilities and rest for the next day.

However, increased responsibility encourages greater maturity and self-reliance. A child who must ensure their room is clean and takes part in either cooking or cleaning up afterwards better understands the importance of time management and how to run a household. In contrast, some parents are overly protective of their children and do not instill traits related to independence. If a child grows up and attends university without a variety of life skills or the maturity that comes from looking after themselves, then they will likely struggle to adjust and may be viewed as childish by their peers.

In conclusion, though there must be logical limits to the amount of work that children should do in the home, it is an advisable approach overall to increase a child’s sense of responsibility. The benefits later in life justify any potential fatigue.

Analysis

1. Many today have argued for the importance of children having greater responsibility in the home. 2. I am generally in agreement with this position, though it should naturally not be taken to extremes.

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

1. Critics of such an approach maintain that it can overburden young children. 2. In many societies around the world today, children are under immense pressure at school to perform well academically. 3. In many Asian countries, for example, young children must study at school until the late afternoon, have dinner, and then take additional classes before doing their homework each night. 4. If these students were also tasked with cleaning the house or washing their own clothes, they simply would not have enough time to complete all their responsibilities and rest for the next day.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. You might add a counterpoint here.

1. However, increased responsibility encourages greater maturity and self-reliance. 2. A child who must ensure their room is clean and takes part in either cooking or cleaning up afterwards better understands the importance of time management and how to run a household. 3. In contrast, some parents are overly protective of their children and do not instill traits related to independence. 4. If a child grows up and attends university without a variety of life skills or the maturity that comes from looking after themselves, then they will likely struggle to adjust and may be viewed as childish by their peers.

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

1. In conclusion, though there must be logical limits to the amount of work that children should do in the home, it is an advisable approach overall to increase a child’s sense of responsibility. 2. The benefits later in life justify any potential fatigue.

  1. Summarise your main ideas.
  2. Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.

Vocabulary

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

Many today have argued for the importance of children having greater responsibility in the home. I am generally in agreement with this position, though it should naturally not be taken to extremes.

Critics of such an approach maintain that it can overburden young children. In many societies around the world today, children are under immense pressure at school to perform well academically. In many Asian countries, for example, young children must study at school until the late afternoon, have dinner, and then take additional classes before doing their homework each night. If these students were also tasked with cleaning the house or washing their own clothes, they simply would not have enough time to complete all their responsibilities and rest for the next day.

However, increased responsibility encourages greater maturity and self-reliance. A child who must ensure their room is clean and takes part in either cooking or cleaning up afterwards better understands the importance of time management and how to run a household. In contrast, some parents are overly protective of their children and do not instill traits related to independence. If a child grows up and attends university without a variety of life skills or the maturity that comes from looking after themselves, then they will likely struggle to adjust and may be viewed as childish by their peers.

In conclusion, though there must be logical limits to the amount of work that children should do in the home, it is an advisable approach overall to increase a child’s sense of responsibility. The benefits later in life justify any potential fatigue.

Answers

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

argued for the importance of are in favor of

greater responsibility in the home more duty in one’s house

I am generally in agreement with this position I agree mostly with the opinion that

naturally of course

taken to extremes pursued in a strong way

Critics those against it

approach maintain way argue

overburden put too much pressure on

under immense pressure at school to perform well academically have lots of stress to do well in their classes

late afternoon around 3 – 5pm

take additional classes sign up for more courses

each night every night

tasked with are assigned

complete all their responsibilities finish their work

rest relaxing

increased responsibility encourages greater maturity and self-reliance more duty motivates them to be more responsible

ensure make sure of

takes part in engages in

afterwards after that

how to run a household how to take care of your place

overly protective of looking too much after

instill traits related to independence sculpt kids to be self-reliant

attends goes to

without a variety of life skills not having lots of abilities like cooking, cleaning, etc.

maturity how old you are emotionally

looking after themselves taking care of themselves

likely struggle to adjust probably have difficulty adapting

may be viewed as childish by their peers might seem immature by other classmates

logical limits rational levels

advisable approach overall good idea in general

sense of responsibility feeling of duty

later in life justify any potential fatigue after that make it worth it to be tired

Pronunciation

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

ˈɑːgjuːd fɔː ði ɪmˈpɔːtəns ɒv 
ˈgreɪtə rɪsˌpɒnsəˈbɪlɪti ɪn ðə həʊm
aɪ æm ˈʤɛnərəli ɪn əˈgriːmənt wɪð ðɪs pəˈzɪʃən 
ˈnæʧrəli 
ˈteɪkən tuː ɪksˈtriːmz
ˈkrɪtɪks 
əˈprəʊʧ meɪnˈteɪn 
ˌəʊvəˈbɜːdn 
ˈʌndər ɪˈmɛns ˈprɛʃər æt skuːl tuː pəˈfɔːm wɛl ˌækəˈdɛmɪkəli
leɪt ˈɑːftəˈnuːn
teɪk əˈdɪʃənl ˈklɑːsɪz 
iːʧ naɪt
tɑːskt wɪð 
kəmˈpliːt ɔːl ðeə rɪsˌpɒnsəˈbɪlɪtiz 
rɛst 
ɪnˈkriːst rɪsˌpɒnsəˈbɪlɪti ɪnˈkʌrɪʤɪz ˈgreɪtə məˈtjʊərɪti ænd sɛlf-rɪˈlaɪəns
ɪnˈʃʊə 
teɪks pɑːt ɪn 
ˈɑːftəwədz 
haʊ tuː rʌn ə ˈhaʊshəʊld
ˈəʊvəli prəˈtɛktɪv ɒv 
ɪnˈstɪl treɪts rɪˈleɪtɪd tuː ˌɪndɪˈpɛndəns
əˈtɛndz 
wɪˈðaʊt ə vəˈraɪəti ɒv laɪf skɪlz 
məˈtjʊərɪti 
ˈlʊkɪŋ ˈɑːftə ðəmˈsɛlvz
ˈlaɪkli ˈstrʌgl tuː əˈʤʌst 
meɪ biː vjuːd æz ˈʧaɪldɪʃ baɪ ðeə pɪəz
ˈlɒʤɪkəl ˈlɪmɪts 
ədˈvaɪzəbl əˈprəʊʧ ˈəʊvərɔːl 
sɛns ɒv rɪsˌpɒnsəˈbɪlɪti
ˈleɪtər ɪn laɪf ˈʤʌstɪfaɪ ˈɛni pəʊˈtɛnʃəl fəˈtiːg

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

Many today have a______________________________f children having g______________________________e. I a____________________________________________n, though it should n____________y not be t_____________s.

C_______s of such an a__________________n that it can o____________n young children. In many societies around the world today, children are u_____________________________________________________________y. In many Asian countries, for example, young children must study at school until the l__________________n, have dinner, and then t__________________s before doing their homework e_____________t. If these students were also t_____________h cleaning the house or washing their own clothes, they simply would not have enough time to c__________________________________s and r____t for the next day.

However, i_________________________________________________________________________e. A child who must e______e their room is clean and t_____________n either cooking or cleaning up a__________s better understands the importance of time management and h___________________d. In contrast, some parents are o_____________________f their children and do not i_____________________________________________e. If a child grows up and a_________s university w_____________________________________________s or the m________y that comes from l_______________________s, then they will l___________________________t and m_____________________________________________s.

In conclusion, though there must be l_____________s to the amount of work that children should do in the home, it is an a_______________________________l to increase a child’s s______________________y. The benefits l________________________________________________e.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.romper.com/life/childrens-responsibilities

Speaking Practice

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

Chores

  1. Did you do many chores as a child?
  2. What chores do you typically do now?
  3. Are there are chores you dislike doing?
  4. Do men or women do more chores in your country?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some people believe that engaging in an active pastime does more to develop children’s life skills than time spent reading.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Task 1: Comparison of Energy Production

IELTS Task 1: Comparison of Energy Production

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of a comparison of energy production.

You can also get my full EBooks below:

Full IELTS EBooks on Patreon

Dave

IELTS Task 1: Comparison of Energy Production

The pie charts show information about energy production in a country in two separate years.

IELTS WRITING TASK 1 – Pie Chart Model Score 9

The pie charts detail the distribution of various energy sources in a given nation in the years 1995 and 2005. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that production of two main energies (coal and gas) rose marginally, while petrol declined considerably. ‘Other’ and nuclear production also grew greatly, despite remaining less popular in both years.

In 1995, coal, gas, and petrol were roughly equal in terms of energy production with each slightly above 29%. By 2005, the figures for coal and gas had risen moderately (30.93% and 30.31%, respectively) while petrol exploitation declined to represent just 19.55% of all sources.

The data for the remaining categories was considerably lower with ‘other’ accounting for 4.9% of energy production to begin the period and nuclear noticeably higher at 6.4%. By 2005, ‘other’ had narrowed the disparity and nearly doubled to 9.1% as nuclear energy use grew more slowly to reach 10.1%.

Analysis

1. The pie charts detail the distribution of various energy sources in a given nation in the years 1995 and 2005. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that production of two main energies (coal and gas) rose marginally, while petrol declined considerably. 3. ‘Other’ and nuclear production also grew greatly, despite remaining less popular in both years.

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

1. In 1995, coal, gas, and petrol were roughly equal in terms of energy production with each slightly above 29%. 2. By 2005, the figures for coal and gas had risen moderately (30.93% and 30.31%, respectively) while petrol exploitation declined to represent just 19.55% of all sources.

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

1. The data for the remaining categories was considerably lower with ‘other’ accounting for 4.9% of energy production to begin the period and nuclear noticeably higher at 6.4%. 2. By 2005, ‘other’ had narrowed the disparity and nearly doubled to 9.1% as nuclear energy use grew more slowly to reach 10.1%.

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

Vocabulary

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

The pie charts detail the distribution of various energy sources in a given nation in the years 1995 and 2005. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that production of two main energies (coal and gas) rose marginally, while petrol declined considerably. ‘Other’ and nuclear production also grew greatly, despite remaining less popular in both years.

In 1995, coal, gas, and petrol were roughly equal in terms of energy production with each slightly above 29%. By 2005, the figures for coal and gas had risen moderately (30.93% and 30.31%, respectively) while petrol exploitation declined to represent just 19.55% of all sources.

The data for the remaining categories was considerably lower with ‘other’ accounting for 4.9% of energy production to begin the period and nuclear noticeably higher at 6.4%. By 2005, ‘other’ had narrowed the disparity and nearly doubled to 9.1% as nuclear energy use grew more slowly to reach 10.1%.

Answers

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

detail show

distribution how it is allocated to each category

various energy sources in a given nation where energy comes from in a country

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

rose marginally increased a bit

petrol declined considerably gas went down a lot

nuclear related to radiation and uranium

grew greatly increased a lot

despite remaining less popular in both years regardless of being less common in each time period

roughly equal in terms of about the same concerning

slightly above just a bit over

figures numbers

had risen moderately had increased a bit

respectively in turn

exploitation declined taking advantage of decreased

represent just stand for only

data figures

remaining categories extra areas

considerably lower with much less than

accounting for representing

to begin the period starting the time at

noticeably higher at much bigger at

narrowed the disparity came much closer to each other, to being equal

nearly doubled almost 2x

grew more slowly to reach increased slightly to get to

Pronunciation

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

ˈdiːteɪl 
ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən 
ˈveərɪəs ˈɛnəʤi ˈsɔːsɪz ɪn ə ˈgɪvn ˈneɪʃən 
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
rəʊz ˈmɑːʤɪnəli
ˈpɛtrəl dɪˈklaɪnd kənˈsɪdərəbli
ˈnjuːklɪə 
gruː ˈgreɪtli
dɪsˈpaɪt rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ lɛs ˈpɒpjʊlər ɪn bəʊθ jɪəz
ˈrʌfli ˈiːkwəl ɪn tɜːmz ɒv 
ˈslaɪtli əˈbʌv 
ˈfɪgəz 
hæd ˈrɪzn ˈmɒdərɪtli 
rɪsˈpɛktɪvli
ˌɛksplɔɪˈteɪʃən dɪˈklaɪnd 
ˌrɛprɪˈzɛnt ʤʌst 
ˈdeɪtə 
rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ ˈkætɪgəriz 
kənˈsɪdərəbli ˈləʊə wɪð 
əˈkaʊntɪŋ fɔː 
tuː bɪˈgɪn ðə ˈpɪərɪəd 
ˈnəʊtɪsəbli ˈhaɪər æt 
ˈnærəʊd ðə dɪsˈpærɪti 
ˈnɪəli ˈdʌbld 
gruː mɔː ˈsləʊli tuː riːʧ 

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

The pie charts d_______l the d______________n of v_________________________________________n in the years 1995 and 2005. L______________________________________________t production of two main energies (coal and gas) r______________y, while p______________________________y. ‘Other’ and n___________r production also g____________y, d___________________________________s.

In 1995, coal, gas, and petrol were r_________________________f energy production with each s____________e 29%. By 2005, the f_________s for coal and gas h______________________y (30.93% and 30.31%, r_____________y) while petrol e_______________________d to r___________t 19.55% of all sources.

The d_____a for the r___________________________s was c_____________________________h ‘other’ a____________________r 4.9% of energy production t______________________d and nuclear n_______________________t 6.4%. By 2005, ‘other’ had n________________________y and n_______________d to 9.1% as nuclear energy use g_____________________________h 10.1%.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.euronews.com/next/2022/12/05/norways-energy-paradox-how-oil-and-gas-are-at-odds-with-green-tech-start-ups

Speaking Practice

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

Environment

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

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS chart below:

IELTS Essay: Equality and Achievement

IELTS Essay: Equality and Achievement

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of equality and achievement from the real IELTS exam

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

Patreon Ebooks

Dave





IELTS Essay: Equality and Achievement

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between equality and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in egalitarian societies. Others believe that high levels of personal achievement are possible only if individuals are free to succeed or fail according to their individual merits.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

In recent decades, there has been considerable debate about whether or not individual achievement is greater in egalitarian or more hierarchical societies. In my opinion, despite the benefits of egalitarianism as a political principle, it should not be pursued as a social ideal.

Those who argue egalitarian societies are better for achievement point out the benefits of opportunity. The most well-known examples of this are in socialist nations in Europe like France where income disparity is less pronounced than in more capitalist countries. In such liberal countries, a person can receive a good education, secure stable employment, receive unemployment benefits in the case of an economic downturn, and support the rest of society by paying high taxes. Being part of such a community is itself a motivation for individuals to perform well at work and pursue life goals. This is especially the case as a person will not have to feel anxious about the possibility of being left behind by society at large.

I would contend that when conditions are generally equal individuals should then be permitted to compete without considerable governmental regulation. The standout example for this situation would be in the United States. Although there are more problems related to income inequality, there is also greater innovation across a variety of sectors. One cause of this is that individuals are motivated by the desire to excel and earn the financial rewards that accompany success. A person is therefore encouraged to attain their own definition of success or they might be forced to live on the fringes of society.

In conclusion, though there is a cruel element to competition, it is the best way to encourage innovation and growth in an individual and society as a whole. Naturally, such an approach is only possible when systemic problems related to discrimination have first been eliminated.

Analysis

1. In recent decades, there has been considerable debate about whether or not individual achievement is greater in egalitarian or more hierarchical societies. 2. In my opinion, despite the benefits of egalitarianism as a political principle, it should not be pursued as a social ideal.

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

1. Those who argue egalitarian societies are better for achievement point out the benefits of opportunity. 2. The most well-known examples of this are in socialist nations in Europe like France where income disparity is less pronounced than in more capitalist countries. 3. In such liberal countries, a person can receive a good education, secure stable employment, receive unemployment benefits in the case of an economic downturn, and support the rest of society by paying high taxes. 4. Being part of such a community is itself a motivation for individuals to perform well at work and pursue life goals. 5. This is especially the case as a person will not have to feel anxious about the possibility of being left behind by society at large.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. You might add a counterpoint here.

1. I would contend that when conditions are generally equal individuals should then be permitted to compete without considerable governmental regulation. 2. The standout example for this situation would be in the United States. 3. Although there are more problems related to income inequality, there is also greater innovation across a variety of sectors. 4. One cause of this is that individuals are motivated by the desire to excel and earn the financial rewards that accompany success. 5. A person is therefore encouraged to attain their own definition of success or they might be forced to live on the fringes of society.

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

1. In conclusion, though there is a cruel element to competition, it is the best way to encourage innovation and growth in an individual and society as a whole. 2. Naturally, such an approach is only possible when systemic problems related to discrimination have first been eliminated.

  1. Summarise your main ideas.
  2. Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.





Vocabulary

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

In recent decades, there has been considerable debate about whether or not individual achievement is greater in egalitarian or more hierarchical societies. In my opinion, despite the benefits of egalitarianism as a political principle, it should not be pursued as a social ideal.

Those who argue egalitarian societies are better for achievement point out the benefits of opportunity. The most well-known examples of this are in socialist nations in Europe like France where income disparity is less pronounced than in more capitalist countries. In such liberal countries, a person can receive a good education, secure stable employment, receive unemployment benefits in the case of an economic downturn, and support the rest of society by paying high taxes. Being part of such a community is itself a motivation for individuals to perform well at work and pursue life goals. This is especially the case as a person will not have to feel anxious about the possibility of being left behind by society at large.

I would contend that when conditions are generally equal individuals should then be permitted to compete without considerable governmental regulation. The standout example for this situation would be in the United States. Although there are more problems related to income inequality, there is also greater innovation across a variety of sectors. One cause of this is that individuals are motivated by the desire to excel and earn the financial rewards that accompany success. A person is therefore encouraged to attain their own definition of success or they might be forced to live on the fringes of society.

In conclusion, though there is a cruel element to competition, it is the best way to encourage innovation and growth in an individual and society as a whole. Naturally, such an approach is only possible when systemic problems related to discrimination have first been eliminated.

Answers

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

In recent decades the last 20 or 30 years

there has been considerable debate about whether or not lots of conflict concerning

achievement how much you get done

greater more than

egalitarian equal

more hierarchical societies countries with clear classes

despite the benefits of egalitarianism as a political principle regardless of the advantages of equal rights

should not be pursued as a social ideal is not a desirable way to live

point out argue

benefits advantages

opportunity chance

The most well-known examples of this are in socialist nations best instances exist in more equal countries

income disparity differences in how much people earn

less pronounced than in more capitalist countries not as different as in more market-oriented nations

liberal socialist, more open and free

receive get

secure stable employment have a good job

receive unemployment benefits in the case of an economic downturn get money from the government when the economy is not doing well

support the rest of society by paying high taxes help everyone by paying some of your salary to the government

motivation encouragement

perform well do well

pursue life goals seek out achievements in life

This is especially the case as particularly the true because

anxious nervous

possibility chance

left behind by society at large not keeping up with the rest of the public

contend argue

conditions situations

generally equal mostly the same

permitted to compete without considerable governmental regulation allowed to do what they want without interference

The standout example for this situation would be best instance of this is

related to income inequality concerning people not being equal

innovation across a variety of sectors new ideas in many industries

One cause of this is that one source is

desire what you want

excel do well

earn the financial rewards make money

accompany success go along with success

attain their own definition of success achieve what they want

on the fringes of society nearly outside of society

cruel element to competition mean part of fighting with others

society as a whole all of society, the public

Naturally of course

approach way

systemic problems issues from history

discrimination prejudice

first before this

eliminated gotten rid of





Pronunciation

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

ɪn ˈriːsnt ˈdɛkeɪdz
ðeə hæz biːn kənˈsɪdərəbl dɪˈbeɪt əˈbaʊt ˈwɛðər ɔː nɒt 
əˈʧiːvmənt 
ˈgreɪtə 
ɪˌgælɪˈteərɪən 
mɔː ˌhaɪərˈɑːkɪkəl səˈsaɪətiz
dɪsˈpaɪt ðə ˈbɛnɪfɪts ɒv ɪˌgælɪˈteərɪənɪz(ə)m æz ə pəˈlɪtɪkəl ˈprɪnsəpl
ʃʊd nɒt biː pəˈsjuːd æz ə ˈsəʊʃəl aɪˈdɪəl
pɔɪnt aʊt 
ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪti
ðə məʊst wɛl-nəʊn ɪgˈzɑːmplz ɒv ðɪs ɑːr ɪn ˈsəʊʃəlɪst ˈneɪʃənz 
ˈɪnkʌm dɪsˈpærɪti 
lɛs prəˈnaʊnst ðæn ɪn mɔː ˈkæpɪtəlɪst ˈkʌntriz
ˈlɪbərəl 
rɪˈsiːv 
sɪˈkjʊə ˈsteɪbl ɪmˈplɔɪmənt
rɪˈsiːv ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt ˈbɛnɪfɪts ɪn ðə keɪs ɒv ən ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈdaʊntɜːn
səˈpɔːt ðə rɛst ɒv səˈsaɪəti baɪ ˈpeɪɪŋ haɪ ˈtæksɪz
ˌməʊtɪˈveɪʃən 
pəˈfɔːm wɛl 
pəˈsjuː laɪf gəʊlz
ðɪs ɪz ɪsˈpɛʃəli ðə keɪs æz 
ˈæŋkʃəs 
ˌpɒsəˈbɪlɪti 
lɛft bɪˈhaɪnd baɪ səˈsaɪəti æt lɑːʤ
kənˈtɛnd 
kənˈdɪʃənz 
ˈʤɛnərəli ˈiːkwəl 
pəˈmɪtɪd tuː kəmˈpiːt wɪˈðaʊt kənˈsɪdərəbl ˌgʌvənˈmɛntl ˌrɛgjʊˈleɪʃən
ðə ˈstændaʊt ɪgˈzɑːmpl fɔː ðɪs ˌsɪtjʊˈeɪʃən wʊd biː 
rɪˈleɪtɪd tuː ˈɪnkʌm ˌɪni(ː)ˈkwɒlɪti
ˌɪnəʊˈveɪʃən əˈkrɒs ə vəˈraɪəti ɒv ˈsɛktəz
wʌn kɔːz ɒv ðɪs ɪz ðæt 
dɪˈzaɪə 
ɪkˈsɛl 
ɜːn ðə faɪˈnænʃəl rɪˈwɔːdz 
əˈkʌmpəni səkˈsɛs
əˈteɪn ðeər əʊn ˌdɛfɪˈnɪʃən ɒv səkˈsɛs 
ɒn ðə ˈfrɪnʤɪz ɒv səˈsaɪəti
krʊəl ˈɛlɪmənt tuː ˌkɒmpɪˈtɪʃən
səˈsaɪəti æz ə həʊl
ˈnæʧrəli
əˈprəʊʧ 
sɪˈstɛmɪk ˈprɒbləmz 
dɪsˌkrɪmɪˈneɪʃən 
fɜːst 
ɪˈlɪmɪneɪtɪd

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

I_________________________s, t_______________________________________________________t individual a______________t is g_________r in e_______________n or m_____________________________s. In my opinion, d____________________________________________e, it s_________________________________________________l.

Those who argue egalitarian societies are better for achievement p____________t the b___________s of o______________y. T_______________________________________________________s in Europe like France where i__________________y is l__________________________________________________________s. In such l__________l countries, a person can r__________e a good education, s__________________________________t, r_______________________________________________________________n, and s____________________________________________s. Being part of such a community is itself a m_________________n for individuals to p_________________l at work and p____________________s. T______________________________s a person will not have to feel a______________s about the p_________________y of being l__________________________________e.

I would c__________d that when c_______________s are g______________________l individuals should then be p_________________________________________________________n. T_________________________________________e in the United States. Although there are more problems r_________________________y, there is also greater i__________________________________________s. O______________________________t individuals are motivated by the d_______e to e_______l and e_____________________________s that a______________________s. A person is therefore encouraged to a____________________________________________s or they might be forced to live o______________________________y.

In conclusion, though there is a c_____________________________n, it is the best way to encourage innovation and growth in an individual and s_______________________e. N________________y, such an a________h is only possible when s______________________________s related to d________________n have f_____t been e___________d.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

Speaking Practice

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

Work (Model answer available on my Patreon)

  1. Are you student or are you working now?
  2. What do you like about your job/school at the moment?
  3. What job would you like to do in the future?





Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some believe that advances in technology are increasing the gap between rich and poor while others think the opposite is happening.

Dicuss both sides and give your own opinion.

IELTS Essay: Creativity

IELTS Essay: Creativity

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

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

Patreon Ebooks

Dave





IELTS Essay: Creativity

Doing an enjoyable activity with a child can is better for their overall skills development and creativity than reading.

To what extent do you agree?

Some today have argued that in order to best facilitate a child’s skills and imagination they should participate in engaging activities instead of spending time reading. In my opinion, though reading is beneficial to imagination to an extent, it is better to take part in a more active pastime.

Those who argue in favor of reading maintain that it stimulates creativity. For generations, parents have read stories to children not only to impart moral lessons but also inspire. One of the most famous children’s authors, Dr. Seuss, is well-known for his imaginative drawings, creative rhymes, and socially conscious plotlines. Children who read his stories are then likely to imitate this example in their own writing and artwork. As kids grow older, they can discover other creative writers and use reading as a way to imagine diverse worlds and characters. By doing so, they will implicitly have more examples to creatively rely on in their studies and future work.

However, a fun activity requires greater levels of engagement. This is broadly true for a number of pastimes ranging from playing sports and making art to socializing and going on holiday. For instance, if a parent decides to teach painting, then their children will have to learn how to employ different kinds of paints and papers, choose subjects to portray, and learn the techniques to achieve any given effect. They will also have to develop resilience and dedication as their first paintings are unlikely to be successes. If this activity is done in a group, then they can develop social skills at the same time. Depending on the activity, a child will have to push themselves outside their comfort zone far beyond what is required when passively reading a book alone.

In conclusion, despite the legitimate benefits of reading for imagination, I would argue that a more active undertaking has more concrete and memorable advantages. Parents should encourage a balance but prioritize active engagement over passivity.

Analysis

1. Some today have argued that in order to best facilitate a child’s skills and imagination they should participate in engaging activities instead of spending time reading. 2. In my opinion, though reading is beneficial to imagination to an extent, it is better to take part in a more active pastime.

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

1. Those who argue in favor of reading maintain that it stimulates creativity. 2. For generations, parents have read stories to children not only to impart moral lessons but also inspire. 3. One of the most famous children’s authors, Dr. Seuss, is well-known for his imaginative drawings, creative rhymes, and socially conscious plotlines. 4. Children who read his stories are then likely to imitate this example in their own writing and artwork. 5. As kids grow older, they can discover other creative writers and use reading as a way to imagine diverse worlds and characters. 6. By doing so, they will implicitly have more examples to creatively rely on in their studies and future work.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Vary long and short sentences.
  6. You might add a counterpoint here.

1. However, a fun activity requires greater levels of engagement. 2. This is broadly true for a number of pastimes ranging from playing sports and making art to socializing and going on holiday. 3. For instance, if a parent decides to teach painting, then their children will have to learn how to employ different kinds of paints and papers, choose subjects to portray, and learn the techniques to achieve any given effect. 4. They will also have to develop resilience and dedication as their first paintings are unlikely to be successes. 5. If this activity is done in a group, then they can develop social skills at the same time. 6. Depending on the activity, a child will have to push themselves outside their comfort zone far beyond what is required when passively reading a book alone.

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

1. In conclusion, despite the legitimate benefits of reading for imagination, I would argue that a more active undertaking has more concrete and memorable advantages. 2. Parents should encourage a balance but prioritize active engagement over passivity.

  1. Summarise your main ideas.
  2. Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.





Vocabulary

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

Some today have argued that in order to best facilitate a child’s skills and imagination they should participate in engaging activities instead of spending time reading. In my opinion, though reading is beneficial to imagination to an extent, it is better to take part in a more active pastime.

Those who argue in favor of reading maintain that it stimulates creativity. For generations, parents have read stories to children not only to impart moral lessons but also inspire. One of the most famous children’s authors, Dr. Seuss, is well-known for his imaginative drawings, creative rhymes, and socially conscious plotlines. Children who read his stories are then likely to imitate this example in their own writing and artwork. As kids grow older, they can discover other creative writers and use reading as a way to imagine diverse worlds and characters. By doing so, they will implicitly have more examples to creatively rely on in their studies and future work.

However, a fun activity requires greater levels of engagement. This is broadly true for a number of pastimes ranging from playing sports and making art to socializing and going on holiday. For instance, if a parent decides to teach painting, then their children will have to learn how to employ different kinds of paints and papers, choose subjects to portray, and learn the techniques to achieve any given effect. They will also have to develop resilience and dedication as their first paintings are unlikely to be successes. If this activity is done in a group, then they can develop social skills at the same time. Depending on the activity, a child will have to push themselves outside their comfort zone far beyond what is required when passively reading a book alone.

In conclusion, despite the legitimate benefits of reading for imagination, I would argue that a more active undertaking has more concrete and memorable advantages. Parents should encourage a balance but prioritize active engagement over passivity.

Answers

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

facilitate make it possible to, allow for

imagination creativity, thinking of lots of ideas

participate in engaging activities instead of spending time reading do fun stuff rather than reading books

beneficial to imagination to an extent helps you be more creative somewhat

take part in a more active pastime do more active activities

Those who argue in favor of people who support

maintain argue

stimulates creativity makes you more imaginative

not only to impart moral lessons more than just telling you ethical stories

inspire encourage

well-known for his imaginative drawings famous for creative pictures

creative rhymes interesting words that sound the same

socially conscious plotlines stories that show you care about the world

imitate copy

As kids grow older when children grow up

discover other creative writers find different imaginative authors

imagine diverse worlds and characters think of varied places and people

By doing so in this way

implicitly not explicitly

rely on depend on

studies schoolwork

future work job later

requires greater levels of engagement need more interaction

This is broadly true for mostly the case for

ranging from playing sports and making art to socializing and going on holiday including…

decides chooses

employ use

subjects what you choose to draw about

portray how it is shown

learn the techniques to achieve any given effect know how to make different kinds of images

develop resilience become grittier

dedication commitment

unlikely to be successes not much chance of it working out

social skills at the same time interacting with others also

Depending on relying on

push themselves outside their comfort zone far beyond challenge yourself

passively reading a book alone buried in a book on your own

despite the legitimate benefits of regardless of the real advantages of

active undertaking not a passive activity

concrete real, tangible

memorable advantages easy to remember benefits

encourage a balance promote equality

prioritize active engagement over passivity focus more on activity rather than doing nothing

Pronunciation

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

fəˈsɪlɪteɪt 
ɪˌmæʤɪˈneɪʃən 
pɑːˈtɪsɪpeɪt ɪn ɪnˈgeɪʤɪŋ ækˈtɪvɪtiz ɪnˈstɛd ɒv ˈspɛndɪŋ taɪm ˈriːdɪŋ
ˌbɛnɪˈfɪʃəl tuː ɪˌmæʤɪˈneɪʃən tuː ən ɪksˈtɛnt
teɪk pɑːt ɪn ə mɔːr ˈæktɪv ˈpɑːstaɪm
ðəʊz huː ˈɑːgjuː ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv 
meɪnˈteɪn 
ˈstɪmjʊleɪts ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvɪti
nɒt ˈəʊnli tuː ɪmˈpɑːt ˈmɒrəl ˈlɛsnz 
ɪnˈspaɪə
wɛl-nəʊn fɔː hɪz ɪˈmæʤɪnətɪv ˈdrɔːɪŋz
kri(ː)ˈeɪtɪv raɪmz
ˈsəʊʃəli ˈkɒnʃəs plɒt laɪnz
ˈɪmɪteɪt 
æz kɪdz grəʊ ˈəʊldə
dɪsˈkʌvər ˈʌðə kri(ː)ˈeɪtɪv ˈraɪtəz 
ɪˈmæʤɪn daɪˈvɜːs wɜːldz ænd ˈkærɪktəz
baɪ ˈdu(ː)ɪŋ səʊ
ɪmˈplɪsɪtli 
rɪˈlaɪ ɒn 
ˈstʌdiz 
ˈfjuːʧə wɜːk
rɪˈkwaɪəz ˈgreɪtə ˈlɛvlz ɒv ɪnˈgeɪʤmənt
ðɪs ɪz ˈbrɔːdli truː fɔː 
ˈreɪnʤɪŋ frɒm ˈpleɪɪŋ spɔːts ænd ˈmeɪkɪŋ ɑːt tuː ˈsəʊʃəlaɪzɪŋ ænd ˈgəʊɪŋ ɒn ˈhɒlədeɪ
dɪˈsaɪdz 
ɪmˈplɔɪ 
ˈsʌbʤɪkts 
pɔːˈtreɪ
lɜːn ðə tɛkˈniːks tuː əˈʧiːv ˈɛni ˈgɪvn ɪˈfɛkt
dɪˈvɛləp rɪˈzɪlɪəns 
ˌdɛdɪˈkeɪʃən 
ʌnˈlaɪkli tuː biː səkˈsɛsɪz
ˈsəʊʃəl skɪlz æt ðə seɪm taɪm
dɪˈpɛndɪŋ ɒn 
pʊʃ ðəmˈsɛlvz ˌaʊtˈsaɪd ðeə ˈkʌmfət zəʊn fɑː bɪˈjɒnd 
ˈpæsɪvli ˈriːdɪŋ ə bʊk əˈləʊn
dɪsˈpaɪt ðə lɪˈʤɪtɪmɪt ˈbɛnɪfɪts ɒv 
ˈæktɪv ˌʌndəˈteɪkɪŋ 
ˈkɒnkriːt 
ˈmɛmərəbl ədˈvɑːntɪʤɪz
ɪnˈkʌrɪʤ ə ˈbæləns 
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz ˈæktɪv ɪnˈgeɪʤmənt ˈəʊvə pæˈsɪvɪti

Vocabulary Practice

I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:

Some today have argued that in order to best f_________e a child’s skills and i______________n they should p_____________________________________________________g. In my opinion, though reading is b______________________________________t, it is better to t________________________________e.

T__________________________________f reading m______________n that it s________________y. For generations, parents have read stories to children n__________________________s but also i___________e. One of the most famous children’s authors, Dr. Seuss, is w____________________________________s, c__________________s, and s_____________________s. Children who read his stories are then likely to i_________e this example in their own writing and artwork. A___________________r, they can d_____________________________________s and use reading as a way to i___________________________________s. B_____________o, they will i_____________y have more examples to creatively r________n in their s___________s and f____________k.

However, a fun activity r_______________________________________t. T___________________________r a number of pastimes r_________________________________________________________________________y. For instance, if a parent d________s to teach painting, then their children will have to learn how to e_______y different kinds of paints and papers, choose s________s to p________y, and l_________________________________________________t. They will also have to d__________________e and d___________n as their first paintings are u______________________s. If this activity is done in a group, then they can develop s__________________________________e. D_________________n the activity, a child will have to p_________________________________________________________d what is required when p_________________________e.

In conclusion, d_______________________________f reading for imagination, I would argue that a more a___________________g has more c___________e and m_____________________________s. Parents should e__________________________e but p___________________________________________________y.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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





Speaking Practice

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

Creativity

  1. Are you a creative person?
  2. What did you learn about creativity at school?
  3. Does anyone in your family have a good imagination?
  4. Are people in your country generally very creative?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some people believe that engaging in an active pastime does more to develop children’s life skills than time spent reading.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?