IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Shops that Closed

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Shops that Closed

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new Cambridge IELTS 17 book of past test papers about shop closures and openings in a country.

You can read essays and guides for the other IELTS Cambridge books, including Cambridge 17, here:

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 17

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 16

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 15

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 14

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 13

Dave

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Shops that Closed

The chart shows the number of shops that closed and the number of new shops opening in a country from 2011 to 2018.

The line chart details shop closures and openings in a given nation between 2011 and 2018. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that both figures were in decline, though most noticeably the number of openings. After erratic trends for both categories, by the end of the period closures had become more common.

In 2011, there were approximately 8,500 openings in the country, significantly higher than the 6,200 closures. Over the next several years, openings dropped to a low of 4,000 and then partly recovered to 6,100 in 2014. Openings were more stable and rose to a peak of 7,100 in 2013 before reaching nearly the same level as closures in 2014.

After this point, closures fell dramatically to just 600 in 2015 before returning to slightly depressed levels and finishing the time surveyed at 5,100. In contrast, openings declined less substantially to around 4,000 between 2015 and 2017 and dipped to end at 3,000 precisely in 2018.

Analysis

1. The line chart details shop closures and openings in a given nation between 2011 and 2018. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that both figures were in decline, though most noticeably the number of openings. 3. After erratic trends for both categories, by the end of the period closures had become more common.

  1. Paraphrase what the bar chart shows.
  2. Write a clear overview summarising the differences.
  3. You might need another sentence for your overview.

1. In 2011, there were approximately 8,500 openings in the country, significantly higher than the 6,200 closures. 2. Over the next several years, openings dropped to a low of 4,000 and then partly recovered to 6,100 in 2014. 3. Openings were more stable and rose to a peak of 7,100 in 2013 before reaching nearly the same level as closures in 2014.

  1. Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
  2. Make sure you compare as much as possible.
  3. Vary long and short sentences.

1. After this point, closures fell dramatically to just 600 in 2015 before returning to slightly depressed levels and finishing the time surveyed at 5,100. 2. In contrast, openings declined less substantially to around 4,000 between 2015 and 2017 and dipped to end at 3,000 precisely in 2018.

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

Vocabulary

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

The line chart details shop closures and openings in a given nation between 2011 and 2018. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that both figures were in decline, though most noticeably the number of openings. After erratic trends for both categories, by the end of the period closures had become more common.

In 2011, there were approximately 8,500 openings in the country, significantly higher than the 6,200 closures. Over the next several years, openings dropped to a low of 4,000 and then partly recovered to 6,100 in 2014. Openings were more stable and rose to a peak of 7,100 in 2013 before reaching nearly the same level as closures in 2014.

After this point, closures fell dramatically to just 600 in 2015 before returning to slightly depressed levels and finishing the time surveyed at 5,100. In contrast, openings declined less substantially to around 4,000 between 2015 and 2017 and dipped to end at 3,000 precisely in 2018.

Answers

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

details shows

closures shutting down, not opening

openings starting up, beginning

in a given nation in some country

between 2011 and 2018 from 2011 to 2018

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

figures numbers

in decline decreasing

though despite

most noticeably moreso

erratic trends fluctuating patterns

by the end of the period at the end of the time

common more popular

approximately around

significantly higher than a lot more than

dropped fell

low lowest point

partly recovered came back up but not all the way

stable little change

rose to a peak of hit a high point of

reaching nearly the same level as getting to the same point as

after this point now

fell dramatically decreased a lot

returning to slightly depressed levels going back down to lower numbers

finishing the time surveyed at ending at

In contrast however

declined less substantially went down not as much

around close to

dipped fell

end at finished at

precisely exactly

Pronunciation

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

ˈdiːteɪlz 
ˈkləʊʒəz 
ˈəʊpnɪŋz 
ɪn ə ˈgɪvn ˈneɪʃən 
bɪˈtwiːn … ænd …
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪv, ɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
ˈfɪgəz 
ɪn dɪˈklaɪn
ðəʊ 
məʊst ˈnəʊtɪsəbli 
ɪˈrætɪk trɛndz 
baɪ ði ɛnd ɒv ðə ˈpɪərɪəd 
ˈkɒmən
əˈprɒksɪmɪtli 
sɪgˈnɪfɪkəntli ˈhaɪə ðæn 
drɒpt 
ləʊ 
ˈpɑːtli rɪˈkʌvəd 
ˈsteɪbl 
rəʊz tuː ə piːk ɒv 
ˈriːʧɪŋ ˈnɪəli ðə seɪm ˈlɛvl æz 
ˈɑːftə ðɪs pɔɪnt,
fɛl drəˈmætɪk(ə)li
rɪˈtɜːnɪŋ tuː ˈslaɪtli dɪˈprɛst ˈlɛvlz 
ˈfɪnɪʃɪŋ ðə taɪm sɜːˈveɪd æt 
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst,
dɪˈklaɪnd lɛs səbˈstænʃəli 
əˈraʊnd 
dɪpt 
ɛnd æt 
prɪˈsaɪsli 

Vocabulary Practice

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

The line chart d_________s shop c_______s and o___________s i___________________n b_______________8. L___________________________________________t both f_________s were i___________e, t_________________________y the number of openings. After e_____________s for both categories, b______________________d closures had become more c______n.

In 2011, there were a_______________y 8,500 openings in the country, s_________________n the 6,200 closures. Over the next several years, openings d_________d to a l___w of 4,000 and then p______________d to 6,100 in 2014. Openings were more s______e and r__________________f 7,100 in 2013 before r_________________________________s closures in 2014.

A______________t, closures f___________________y to just 600 in 2015 before r___________________________________s and f____________________________________t 5,100. I____________t, openings d_________________________y to a_______d 4,000 between 2015 and 2017 and d________d to e______t 3,000 p_________y in 2018.

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.harpersbazaar.com/uk/fashion/g19731295/10-coolest-stores-in-the-world/

Speaking Practice

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

Shopping

  1. What do you usually shop for?
  2. Do you often go to malls?
  3. Do you shop online a lot?
  4. How common are shopping centers in your country?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Health Problems

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Health Problems

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new Cambridge IELTS 17 book of past test papers on the topic of health problems and alternative medicines and treatments.

Check out my exclusive IELTS EBooks here on Patreon.

You can read essays and guides for the other IELTS Cambridge books, including Cambridge 17, here:

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 17

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 16

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 15

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 14

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 13

Dave

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Health Problems

Nowadays, an increasing number of people with health problems are using alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their normal doctor.

Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

In recent years, a growing number of unwell individuals have begun to adopt the use of alternative medicines and treatments. In my opinion, though these can sometimes be effective, this trend is negative overall due to the superiority of modern medicine.

Those who support alternative remedies argue there is historical evidence in favor of their effectiveness. A pertinent example of this would be the popularity of traditional Chinese medicine in Asia. Many of their medicines and treatments date back hundreds or even thousands of years. Over that time, they have been tested and their effect verified in some cases. Contemporary health researchers are often able to later identify the scientific rationale but it is possible there are remedies in use today that we still do not understand. This ignorance should not serve as a justification to question their overall importance.

However, the vast majority of viable medical treatment is modern. Scientists now understand more rigorously the underlying structures of cells, viruses, bacteria, cancers, and various other maladies. This has allowed for the creation of undeniably effective procedures such as surgery and the discovery of crucial medicines like penicillin. There is no doubt as to why these medicines work and therefore in the future they will only become more refined and safe. In contrast, traditional medicine may be effective for unknown reasons but its applicability is limited and it will not advance overtime.

In conclusion, with few exceptions, traditional medicine is a better alternative to less verifiable treatments and pharmaceuticals. Individuals can attempt to use them but should rely on their usual doctors.

Analysis

1. In recent years, a growing number of unwell individuals have begun to adopt the use of alternative medicines and treatments. 2. In my opinion, though these can sometimes be effective, this trend is negative overall due to the superiority of modern medicine.

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

1. Those who support alternative remedies argue there is historical evidence in favor of their effectiveness. 2. A pertinent example of this would be the popularity of traditional Chinese medicine in Asia. 3. Many of their medicines and treatments date back hundreds or even thousands of years. 4. Over that time, they have been tested and their effect verified in some cases. 5. Contemporary health researchers are often able to later identify the scientific rationale but it is possible there are remedies in use today that we still do not understand. 6. This ignorance should not serve as a justification to question their overall importance.

  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. Short sentences can make your writing clearer.
  6. Use complex and simple sentences.

1. However, the vast majority of viable medical treatment is modern. 2. Scientists now understand more rigorously the underlying structures of cells, viruses, bacteria, cancers, and various other maladies. 3. This has allowed for the creation of undeniably effective procedures such as surgery and the discovery of crucial medicines like penicillin. 4. There is no doubt as to why these medicines work and therefore in the future they will only become more refined and safe. 5. In contrast, traditional medicine may be effective for unknown reasons but its applicability is limited and it will not advance overtime.

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

1. In conclusion, with few exceptions, traditional medicine is a better alternative to less verifiable treatments and pharmaceuticals. 2. Individuals can attempt to use them but should rely on their usual doctors.

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

Vocabulary

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

In recent years, a growing number of unwell individuals have begun to adopt the use of alternative medicines and treatments. In my opinion, though these can sometimes be effective, this trend is negative overall due to the superiority of modern medicine.

Those who support alternative remedies argue there is historical evidence in favor of their effectiveness. A pertinent example of this would be the popularity of traditional Chinese medicine in Asia. Many of their medicines and treatments date back hundreds or even thousands of years. Over that time, they have been tested and their effect verified in some cases. Contemporary health researchers are often able to later identify the scientific rationale but it is possible there are remedies in use today that we still do not understand. This ignorance should not serve as a justification to question their overall importance.

However, the vast majority of viable medical treatment is modern. Scientists now understand more rigorously the underlying structures of cells, viruses, bacteria, cancers, and various other maladies. This has allowed for the creation of undeniably effective procedures such as surgery and the discovery of crucial medicines like penicillin. There is no doubt as to why these medicines work and therefore in the future they will only become more refined and safe. In contrast, traditional medicine may be effective for unknown reasons but its applicability is limited and it will not advance overtime.

In conclusion, with few exceptions, traditional medicine is a better alternative to less verifiable treatments and pharmaceuticals. Individuals can attempt to use them but should rely on their usual doctors.

Answers

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

in recent years in the last few decades

growing increasing

unwell sick

begun started to

adopt start using

medicines pills, drugs, etc.

treatments ways to deal with illnesses

though despite

effective works well

trend pattern

negative overall bad in general

due to because of

the superiority of modern medicine how much better new medicine and doctors are

support alternative remedies favor less traditional doctors

argue point out

historical evidence examples from the past

in favor of supporting

effectiveness works well

A pertinent example of this would be a good instance of this is

popularity how common it is

traditional Chinese medicine older treatments from China

date back from a long time ago

Over that time as time passes

tested verified

verified proven true

in some cases sometimes

Contemporary health researchers are doctors today can

later identify after that figure out

scientific rationale good reasons

remedies in use today treatments now

ignorance not knowing about

serve as are the basis for

justification reason for

question doubt

overall importance how valuable they are in general

vast majority most of

viable medical useful treatment

rigorously intensively

underlying structures basic parts

cells fundamental component of life

viruses dangerous spreading diseases

bacteria cause disease

cancers a serious illness

various other maladies different diseases

allowed for made it possible

creation making of

undeniably effective procedures definitely work

surgery operating on someone

discovery finding of

crucial medicines key treatments

penicillin a drug for treating infections

There is no doubt as to it can’t be denied that

therefore thus

refined made better

safe not dangerous

In contrast however

unknown reasons ignorance of why

applicability how much it can be used in other cases

limited contained

advance move forward

with few exceptions not many other instances

better alternative to better way to

less verifiable treatments medicines that can’t be trusted

pharmaceuticals drugs

attempt try

rely on dependent on

usual doctors normal doctors

Pronunciation

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

ɪn ˈriːsnt jɪəz
ˈgrəʊɪŋ 
ʌnˈwɛl 
bɪˈgʌn 
əˈdɒpt 
ˈmɛdsɪnz 
ˈtriːtmənts
ðəʊ 
ɪˈfɛktɪv 
trɛnd 
ˈnɛgətɪv ˈəʊvərɔːl 
djuː tuː 
ðə sju(ː)ˌpɪərɪˈɒrɪti ɒv ˈmɒdən ˈmɛdsɪn
səˈpɔːt ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv ˈrɛmɪdiz 
ˈɑːgjuː 
hɪsˈtɒrɪkəl ˈɛvɪdəns 
ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv 
ɪˈfɛktɪvnəs
ə ˈpɜːtɪnənt ɪgˈzɑːmpl ɒv ðɪs wʊd biː 
ˌpɒpjʊˈlærɪti 
trəˈdɪʃənl ˌʧaɪˈniːz ˈmɛdsɪn 
deɪt bæk 
ˈəʊvə ðæt taɪm
ˈtɛstɪd 
ˈvɛrɪfaɪd 
ɪn sʌm ˈkeɪsɪz
kənˈtɛmpərəri hɛlθ rɪˈsɜːʧəz ɑː 
ˈleɪtər aɪˈdɛntɪfaɪ 
ˌsaɪənˈtɪfɪk ˌræʃəˈnɑːl 
ˈrɛmɪdiz ɪn juːz təˈdeɪ 
ˈɪgnərəns 
sɜːv æz 
ˌʤʌstɪfɪˈkeɪʃən 
ˈkwɛsʧən 
ˈəʊvərɔːl ɪmˈpɔːtəns
vɑːst məˈʤɒrɪti 
ˈvaɪəbl ˈmɛdɪkəl 
ˈrɪgərəsli 
ˌʌndəˈlaɪɪŋ ˈstrʌkʧəz 
sɛlz
ˈvaɪərəsɪz
bækˈtɪərɪə
ˈkænsəz,
ˈveərɪəs ˈʌðə ˈmælədiz
əˈlaʊd fɔː 
kri(ː)ˈeɪʃən 
ˌʌndɪˈnaɪəbli ɪˈfɛktɪv prəˈsiːʤəz 
ˈsɜːʤəri 
dɪsˈkʌvəri 
ˈkruːʃəl ˈmɛdsɪnz 
ˌpɛnɪˈsɪlɪn.
ðeər ɪz nəʊ daʊt æz 
ˈðeəfɔː 
rɪˈfaɪnd 
seɪf
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst
ʌnˈnəʊn ˈriːznz 
ˌæplɪkəˈbɪlɪti 
ˈlɪmɪtɪd 
ədˈvɑːns 
wɪð fjuː ɪkˈsɛpʃənz
ˈbɛtər ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv tuː 
lɛs ˈvɛrɪfaɪəbl ˈtriːtmənts 
ˌfɑːməˈsjuːtɪkəlz
əˈtɛmpt 
rɪˈlaɪ ɒn 
ˈjuːʒʊəl ˈdɒktəz

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:

Nowadays, an increasing number of people with health problems are using alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their normal doctor.

Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

I__________________s, a g__________g number of u________l individuals have b______n to a______t the use of alternative m______________s and t_____________s. In my opinion, t______h these can sometimes be e___________e, this t_____d is n____________________l d_________________________________________e.

Those who s______________________________s a________e there is h_______________________e i____________f their e____________s. A____________________________________________e the p__________y of t___________________________e in Asia. Many of their medicines and treatments d________k hundreds or even thousands of years. O_______________e, they have been t______d and their effect v___________d i______________s. C________________________________e often able to l____________y the s________________e but it is possible there are r__________s i_____________y that we still do not understand. This i_________e should not s_________s a j________________n to q___________n their o_____________e.

However, the v________________________f v_______________l treatment is modern. Scientists now understand more r___________y the u_____________________s of c_____s, v_________s, b_________a, c_________s, and v__________________s. This has a________________r the c___________n of u_______________________________s such as s___________y and the d____________y of c_______________________s like p__________n. T_____________________________s to why these medicines work and t____________e in the future they will only become more r____________d and s___e. I______________t, traditional medicine may be effective for u______________________s but its a__________________y is l____________d and it will not a________e overtime.

In conclusion, w____________________s, traditional medicine is a b____________________________o l_______________________________s and p____________________s. Individuals can a___________t to use them but should r_________n their u_______________s.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.wired.com/2015/04/alternative-medicine-believers-journey-back-science/

Speaking Practice

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

Health

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

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

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

Why is this?

Is this a positive or a negative development?

Cambridge IELTS 17 – The Complete Guide!

Cambridge IELTS 17 – The Complete Guide!

The latest Cambridge IELTS 17 book of past tests just came out and I have collected some tips and materials to help you get the most out of it!

I also have guides for IELTS Cambridge 16 here, Cambridge 15 here, Cambridge 14 here, and Cambridge 13 here.

You can find my exclusive IELTS EBooks here on my Patreon as well.

Dave

Cambridge IELTS 17 – Sample Answers and Essays

I have written sample answer essays for all the Cambridge 17 writing topics below:

Writing Task 1 Tests 1-4:

Cambridge 17: Shops that Closed Line Chart

Canbridge 17: Average Weekly Spending Bar Chart

Cambridge 17: Map of an Industrial Area (Norbiton)

Writing Task 2 Tests 1-4

Cambridge 17: Taking Risks

Cambridge 17: Professionals

Cambridge 17: Smartphones

Cambridge 17: Health and Doctors

How to Study with IELTS Cambridge 17

There are a lot of mistakes to avoid when practice with IELTS Cambridge books.

You shouldn’t just do test after test after test.

That is more about your anxiety than your English development.

Doing practice tests is just about being familiar with the test format.

And also practicing test strategies, such as writing your topic sentences.

If you want to actually improve your English ability, then you need to use the IELTS Cambridge books in a different way.

Start with a timed test to have an idea of your level.

Then figure out the areas where you need to improve the most.

Then search online for how to practice or check out ideas in the rest of my blog.

There are some further practice ideas below.

Best of luck!

Practicing with the new IELTS Cambridge 17

Listening

Study some tips before you listen.

Create a realistic testing environment: quiet, headphones, practice paper, pencil, etc.

After you finish, check your answers first.

More importantly, go back and read the tapescript.

Highlight it.

Find out the reason why you got the answers wrong – because of the vocabulary? the pronunciation?

Now you know what to work on and can practice it more before the next test.

Use the tests to measure your development – not to develop.

Reading

Just like with reading, read some tips first.

Simulate the testing environment.

Time yourself and take the test.

Check your answers.

Highlight the answers you got wrong.

Write the reasons why you got them wrong in your notebook.

Improve in those areas before you take another test later to measure your progress.

Simple!

Also, try practicing with the news and these activities.

Writing

Time yourself and write a full test.

Go over your writing yourself or find a qualified teacher to make it for you and give you feedback.

Study some sample answers related to the same topic.

Practice again and again paying attention to your weak points: vocabulary, grammar, structure, ideas, etc.

This is usually the lowest score for most IELTS candidates so practice it more than anything else!

Speaking

Answer the speaking questions and record yourself speaking.

Listen back to it or get it marked by a professional.

Locate your weaknesses – vocabulary? pronunciation? speed?

Find ways to improve your speaking before the next test.

My favorite idea is here: improve your pronunciation with Google voice search.

You can also try out of my ideas here for practicing without a partner.

Study Activities

Combine the different skills when you practice so that your brain groups together the language – this will make your progress much faster.

Listening Activities for Cambridge IELTS 17

  1. Over and over: The most important key to improving your listening is to listen multiple times. Listen over and over and try to hear new sounds, words, etc. Then check with the tapescript to find where your weaknesses are.
  2. Test environment: Find out how the exam works in your country and simulate the environment. Headphones or speaker? Sitting at a desk? Really cold room? This can help to alleviate anxiety on the day of the test.
  3. After you listen: This is the key period for improvement. Fill in the answers but maybe write some other possibilities – keep your practice light and easy. You should be having fun with it and playing around with your listening skills. Vary it up by putting down the book and listening to a video on YouTube or a podcast as well.

For more listening activities read here about listening with or without subtitles and the top 3 keys to improve your listening here.

Writing Activities for Cambridge IELTS 17

  1. Focus Activity: Sometimes students have trouble focusing on all areas at one: vocabulary, grammar, ideas, etc. Make it easier on yourself. Just write one paragraph for a topic and focus on your vocabulary. Then write the same paragraph but focus on grammar. Then on ideas. Change the order with the next paragraph. Keep building up your skills and then later try to write a whole essay focusing on all skills at once.
  2. Sample Answers: Take advantage of sample answers to improve. Go back to your old essays and then check with my sample answers. Can you take any of my vocabulary and put it in? Any grammar? Keep going back to your old essays adding in what you learn from my samples. Then later when you practice on your own, try to remember some of what you have learned.
  3. More ideas for teachers and students: I wrote a whole post about this before. Some ideas will apply for classes but lots of them you can also do all on your own without a teacher or another student: https://howtodoielts.com/ielts-lesson-activities/

Reading Activities for Cambridge IELTS 17

  1. Listen and stop: Start listening to a test but every once in a while stop the listening. What was the last sentence you heard? The last word? Can you predict the next word? The next sentence? Change up the way you practice so that your development is more consistent and faster.
  2. Paraphrases/Synonyms: These are really key on IELTS. After doing a test, highlight the key words in the questions. Highlight how those words change in the reading. Make a list in your notebook of the differences. This will raise your awareness of the differences and help you understand the test much better.
  3. Summaries: Summarizing is simple but also really, really hard. After a reading try to write a few sentences to summarize the practice. But change it up. Sometimes you can just write 1 sentence – sometimes a whole paragraph. Sometimes, just summarize a single paragraph or paraphrase one sentence. Always change the way that you practice to keep challenging yourself!

Speaking Activities for Cambridge IELTS 17

  1. Different Answers: Some students practice by repeating the same answers over and over again. This will make you sound really robotic. Instead, try answering the same question with slightly different details each time. This will make you sound more natural, fluent, and you will get the chance to use a wider range of vocabulary.
  2. Simulate the Test: Watch a test on YouTube to understand how it will really work. One of my favorites is here. Then either use the computer or a friend to practice a real test for yourself. This will help to reduce your anxiety later when you take the real test.
  3. Combination: You should always be combining your skills. So, after doing a reading, do some speaking questions on the same topic. Record your answers. Then do a writing. Go back and listen to your answers. Is there any better vocabulary that you could have used? Record yourself again. Keep practicing the same topic. Listen back to your answers a day later. Try again with better vocabulary and record yourself. Keep repeating this process over and over again so that you can hear your progress and know that you are not wasting your time!
IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Professionals

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Professionals

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new Cambridge IELTS 17 book of past test papers related to professionals such as doctors and engineers working in other countries.

Check out my exclusive IELTS EBooks here on Patreon.

Dave

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Professionals

Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish.

Discuss views and give your own opinion.

Certain groups today have argued that skilled professionals should be obliged to work where they did their initial training, while others feel they are owed the right to work anywhere. In my opinion, assuming that the qualifications translate, all individuals ought to have the freedom to choose their country of occupation.

Those who oppose this practice contend that professionals owe a debt of gratitude to the location of their training. Qualified professionals ranging from medical practitioners and engineers to scientists and teachers at some point likely relied deeply on governmental and educational resources in their local area. It is therefore logical that these individuals should remain at least in the same country and contribute their skills to bettering society as a whole. For instance, a doctor who has benefited from quality schools and government aid in the United States can justifiably be asked to help their fellow citizens and train future doctors.

However, the right to choose freely where one works and lives is paramount. Since many professionals will likely end up remaining where they did their training, this is rarely a pressing problem in most nations. Given that reality, workers should not be restricted in their movement and choice of living environment. When moving to another locale, they will likely have to ensure their standardization and certification are valid and learn the intricacies of working in another nation. However, these are simply individual impediments and should not be used as definitive counter-arguments. Preventing individuals from working in other countries would also considerably impair the sharing of expertise and culture across international borders.

In conclusion, though there are certain standards that must be reached, all working professionals should be free to work abroad. This policy is largely already in place for most occupations.

Analysis

1. Certain groups today have argued that skilled professionals should be obliged to work where they did their initial training, while others feel they are owed the right to work anywhere. 2. In my opinion, assuming that the qualifications translate, all individuals ought to have the freedom to choose their country of occupation.

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

1. Those who oppose this practice contend that professionals owe a debt of gratitude to the location of their training. 2. Qualified professionals ranging from medical practitioners and engineers to scientists and teachers at some point likely relied deeply on governmental and educational resources in their local area. 3. It is therefore logical that these individuals should remain at least in the same country and contribute their skills to bettering society as a whole. 4. For instance, a doctor who has benefited from quality schools and government aid in the United States can justifiably be asked to help their fellow citizens and train future doctors.

  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.

1. However, the right to choose freely where one works and lives is paramount. 2. Since many professionals will likely end up remaining where they did their training, this is rarely a pressing problem in most nations. 3. Given that reality, workers should not be restricted in their movement and choice of living environment. 4. When moving to another locale, they will likely have to ensure their standardization and certification are valid and learn the intricacies of working in another nation. 5. However, these are simply individual impediments and should not be used as definitive counter-arguments. 6. Preventing individuals from working in other countries would also considerably impair the sharing of expertise and culture across international borders.

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

1. In conclusion, though there are certain standards that must be reached, all working professionals should be free to work abroad. 2. This policy is largely already in place for most occupations.

  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.

Certain groups today have argued that skilled professionals should be obliged to work where they did their initial training, while others feel they are owed the right to work anywhere. In my opinion, assuming that the qualifications translate, all individuals ought to have the freedom to choose their country of occupation.

Those who oppose this practice contend that professionals owe a debt of gratitude to the location of their training. Qualified professionals ranging from medical practitioners and engineers to scientists and teachers at some point likely relied deeply on governmental and educational resources in their local area. It is therefore logical that these individuals should remain at least in the same country and contribute their skills to bettering society as a whole. For instance, a doctor who has benefited from quality schools and government aid in the United States can justifiably be asked to help their fellow citizens and train future doctors.

However, the right to choose freely where one works and lives is paramount. Since many professionals will likely end up remaining where they did their training, this is rarely a pressing problem in most nations. Given that reality, workers should not be restricted in their movement and choice of living environment. When moving to another locale, they will likely have to ensure their standardization and certification are valid and learn the intricacies of working in another nation. However, these are simply individual impediments and should not be used as definitive counter-arguments. Preventing individuals from working in other countries would also considerably impair the sharing of expertise and culture across international borders.

In conclusion, though there are certain standards that must be reached, all working professionals should be free to work abroad. This policy is largely already in place for most occupations.

Answers

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

certain groups today some people

argued contended

skilled professionals people with jobs that require training and education

obliged should have to do it

initial training first learning

while however

owed are obliged to

right deserve to

assuming that given that

qualifications translate certifications carry over

ought to have should have

country of occupation where you work

oppose go against

practice contend policy argue

owe a debt of gratitude have to pay back

location place

training learning and studying and practicing

Qualified professionals people who are trained and certified

ranging from medical practitioners and engineers to scientists and teachers including doctors, etc.

at some point eventually

relied deeply had to get a lot of help from

governmental federal

educational resources schools

local area where you live

logical rational

remain at least stay at minimum

contribute add to

bettering society as a whole making life better for all

quality schools good education

government aid federal support

justifiably good reason for it

help their fellow citizens aid other people in the country

train future doctors help teacher young doctors

paramount crucial

will likely end up probably will happen

remaining staying

rarely not often

pressing problem key issue

Given that reality since

workers employees

restricted limited

movement going to a new place

choice of living environment where you live

locale place

ensure make sure of

standardization making sure everything is the same and certified

certification standardized

valid not fraudulent

intricacies complexities

simply individual impediments only personal obstacles

definitive counter-arguments strong argument against

preventing stopping

considerably impair hurt a lot

sharing of expertise and culture across international borders collaborating and working with others

certain standards some thresholds

reached got to

policy way of doing things

largely already in place mostly true now

occupations jobs

Pronunciation

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

ˈsɜːtn gruːps təˈdeɪ 
ˈɑːgjuːd 
skɪld prəˈfɛʃənlz 
əˈblaɪʤd 
ɪˈnɪʃəl ˈtreɪnɪŋ
waɪl 
əʊd 
raɪt 
əˈsjuːmɪŋ ðæt 
ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz trænsˈleɪt
ɔːt tuː hæv 
ˈkʌntri ɒv ˌɒkjʊˈpeɪʃən
əˈpəʊz 
ˈpræktɪs kənˈtɛnd 
əʊ ə dɛt ɒv ˈgrætɪtjuːd 
ləʊˈkeɪʃən 
ˈtreɪnɪŋ
ˈkwɒlɪfaɪd prəˈfɛʃənlz 
ˈreɪnʤɪŋ frɒm ˈmɛdɪkəl prækˈtɪʃnəz ænd ˌɛnʤɪˈnɪəz tuː ˈsaɪəntɪsts ænd ˈtiːʧəz 
æt sʌm pɔɪnt 
rɪˈlaɪd ˈdiːpli 
ˌgʌvənˈmɛntl 
ˌɛdju(ː)ˈkeɪʃənl rɪˈsɔːsɪz 
ˈləʊkəl ˈeərɪə
ˈlɒʤɪkəl 
rɪˈmeɪn æt liːst 
kənˈtrɪbju(ː)t 
ˈbɛtərɪŋ səˈsaɪəti æz ə həʊl
ˈkwɒlɪti skuːlz 
ˈgʌvnmənt eɪd 
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪəbli 
hɛlp ðeə ˈfɛləʊ ˈsɪtɪznz 
treɪn ˈfjuːʧə ˈdɒktəz
ˈpærəmaʊnt 
wɪl ˈlaɪkli ɛnd ʌp 
rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ 
ˈreəli 
ˈprɛsɪŋ ˈprɒbləm 
ˈgɪvn ðæt ri(ː)ˈælɪti
ˈwɜːkəz 
rɪsˈtrɪktɪd 
ˈmuːvmənt 
ʧɔɪs ɒv ˈlɪvɪŋ ɪnˈvaɪərənmənt
ləʊˈkɑːl
ɪnˈʃʊə 
ˌstændədaɪˈzeɪʃən 
ˌsɜːtɪfɪˈkeɪʃən 
ˈvælɪd 
ˈɪntrɪkəsiz 
ˈsɪmpli ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəl ɪmˈpɛdɪmənts 
dɪˈfɪnɪtɪv ˈkaʊntər-ˈɑːgjʊmənts
prɪˈvɛntɪŋ 
kənˈsɪdərəbli ɪmˈpeə 
ˈʃeərɪŋ ɒv ˌɛkspɜːˈtiːz ænd ˈkʌlʧər əˈkrɒs ˌɪntə(ː)ˈnæʃənl ˈbɔːdəz
ˈsɜːtn ˈstændədz 
riːʧt
ˈpɒlɪsi 
ˈlɑːʤli ɔːlˈrɛdi ɪn pleɪs 
ˌɒkjʊˈpeɪʃənz

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:

C_____________________y have a________d that s_________________s should be o________d to work where they did their i_____________g, w_____e others feel they are o_____d the r______t to work anywhere. In my opinion, a_____________t the q________________________e, all individuals o_______________e the freedom to choose their c_____________________n.

Those who o_________e this p______________d that professionals o_____________________e to the l________n of their t_______g. Q_______________s r________________________________________________________s a______________t likely r________y on g____________l and e______________________s in their l___________a. It is therefore l________l that these individuals should r_______________t in the same country and c_____________e their skills to b_________________________e. For instance, a doctor who has benefited from q________________s and g____________________d in the United States can j____________y be asked to h_____________________________s and t______________________s.

However, the right to choose freely where one works and lives is p___________t. Since many professionals w__________________________________g where they did their training, this is r________y a p___________m in most nations. G________________y, w_________s should not be r____________d in their m____________t and c________________t. When moving to another l_______e, they will likely have to e______e their s____________n and c______________n are v_____d and learn the i____________s of working in another nation. However, these are s____________________s and should not be used as d___________________________s. P__________g individuals from working in other countries would also c________________r the s_________________________________________________s.

In conclusion, though there are c___________________s that must be r_________d, all working professionals should be free to work abroad. This p_____y is l___________________________e for most o_______________s.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.gooverseas.com/blog/best-countries-work-abroad

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:

These days people spend more and more time at work and less time at home.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Taking Risks in Professional and Personal Lives

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Taking Risks in Professional and Personal Lives

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay from the new Cambridge IELTS 17 book of past test papers on the topic of taking risks in professional and personal lives.

Check out my exclusive IELTS EBooks here on Patreon.

You can read essays and guides for the other IELTS Cambridge books, including Cambridge 17, here:

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 17

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 16

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 15

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 14

The Complete Guide to IELTS Cambridge 13

Dave

IELTS Cambridge 17 Essay: Taking Risks in Professional and Personal Lives

It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives.

Do the advantages of taking these risks outweigh the disadvantages?

Some would argue that taking risks, both in terms of one’s private life and one’s working career, is advantageous overall. I am generally in agreement with this contention due to the potential for advancement and growth.

Firstly, risk-taking can expedite one’s career goals. Many workers decide early on that they are content with their position in society and therefore often fail to actualize their potential. Others, however, attempt various business enterprises and transition from field to field in order to find a good match. Although this may lead to short-term setbacks, in the long-term such ambitious individuals are far more likely to become very successful in life. Assuming that these risks are taken early in one’s career, there is a strong likelihood that they will eventually profit the risk-taker in question.

Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also develop more mature personal relationships. In more conservative countries, many young people do not begin to have serious romantic relationships until after university. The result of this is that they are often immature and it can lead to poor and naive choices in terms of marriage and parenting. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and enters into various relationships throughout high school and university will become a better judge of character. Their allegedly risky behavior can then serve as the foundation for personal growth and increased maturity.

In conclusion, taking risks can be a catalyst for tremendous growth and is therefore advisable. The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be mitigated in most contexts by not being inordinately reckless.

Analysis

1. Some would argue that taking risks, both in terms of one’s private life and one’s working career, is advantageous overall. 2. I am generally in agreement with this contention due to the potential for advancement and growth.

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

1. Firstly, risk-taking can expedite one’s career goals. 2. Many workers decide early on that they are content with their position in society and therefore often fail to actualize their potential. 3. Others, however, attempt various business enterprises and transition from field to field in order to find a good match. 4. Although this may lead to short-term setbacks, in the long-term such ambitious individuals are far more likely to become very successful in life. 5. Assuming that these risks are taken early in one’s career, there is a strong likelihood that they will eventually profit the risk-taker in question.

  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. Short sentences can make your writing clearer.

1. Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also develop more mature personal relationships. 2. In more conservative countries, many young people do not begin to have serious romantic relationships until after university. 3. The result of this is that they are often immature and it can lead to poor and naive choices in terms of marriage and parenting. 4. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and enters into various relationships throughout high school and university will become a better judge of character. 5. Their allegedly risky behavior can then serve as the foundation for personal growth and increased maturity.

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

1. In conclusion, taking risks can be a catalyst for tremendous growth and is therefore advisable. 2. The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be mitigated in most contexts by not being inordinately reckless.

  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 would argue that taking risks, both in terms of one’s private life and one’s working career, is advantageous overall. I am generally in agreement with this contention due to the potential for advancement and growth.

Firstly, risk-taking can expedite one’s career goals. Many workers decide early on that they are content with their position in society and therefore often fail to actualize their potential. Others, however, attempt various business enterprises and transition from field to field in order to find a good match. Although this may lead to short-term setbacks, in the long-term such ambitious individuals are far more likely to become very successful in life. Assuming that these risks are taken early in one’s career, there is a strong likelihood that they will eventually profit the risk-taker in question.

Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also develop more mature personal relationships. In more conservative countries, many young people do not begin to have serious romantic relationships until after university. The result of this is that they are often immature and it can lead to poor and naive choices in terms of marriage and parenting. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and enters into various relationships throughout high school and university will become a better judge of character. Their allegedly risky behavior can then serve as the foundation for personal growth and increased maturity.

In conclusion, taking risks can be a catalyst for tremendous growth and is therefore advisable. The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be mitigated in most contexts by not being inordinately reckless.

Answers

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

taking risks making decisions that are not always safe

in terms of concerning

private life personal lives

working career jobs

advantageous overall good in general

I am generally in agreement with this contention I mostly agree

due to because of

potential possible

advancement moving forward

growth becoming a better person

risk-taking making risky decisions

expedite make faster

career goals pursue a good job and career path

decide early on choose from the beginning

content satisfied with

position job

fail to actualize don’t fully achieve

attempt try

business enterprises jobs and businesses

transition from field to field move from job to job

good match good fit

short-term setbacks drawbacks right away

ambitious individuals people with big dreams

are far more likely to become greater chance they will

Assuming given that

risks are taken doing risky actions

career job

strong likelihood good chance of it

profit what you get/earn

risk-taker person who takes risks

in question being discussed here

develop change

mature personal relationships better interactions with others

conservative countries traditional nations

serious romantic relationships boyfriends, girlfriends, partners, etc.

The result of this is that the consequence is

immature not mature, childish

poor not good

naive innocent

in terms of concerning

enters into various relationships throughout have many different relationships during

better judge of character understand people better

allegedly it is assumed that

serve as the foundation for are the basis for

personal growth how a person changes and gets better

increased maturity growing as a person

a catalyst for tremendous the cause of big

advisable a good idea

mitigated weakened

contexts situations

inordinately reckless very risky

Pronunciation

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

ˈteɪkɪŋ rɪsks
ɪn tɜːmz ɒv 
ˈpraɪvɪt laɪf 
ˈwɜːkɪŋ kəˈrɪə 
ˌædvənˈteɪʤəs ˈəʊvərɔːl
aɪ æm ˈʤɛnərəli ɪn əˈgriːmənt wɪð ðɪs kənˈtɛnʃən 
djuː tuː 
pəʊˈtɛnʃəl 
ədˈvɑːnsmənt 
grəʊθ
rɪsk-ˈteɪkɪŋ 
ˈɛkspɪdaɪt 
kəˈrɪə gəʊlz
dɪˈsaɪd ˈɜːli ɒn 
ˈkɒntɛnt 
pəˈzɪʃən 
feɪl tuː ˈækʧʊəlaɪz 
əˈtɛmpt 
ˈbɪznɪs ˈɛntəpraɪzɪz 
trænˈzɪʃ(ə)n frɒm fiːld tuː fiːld 
gʊd mæʧ
ʃɔːt-tɜːm ˈsɛtbæks
æmˈbɪʃəs ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəlz 
ɑː fɑː mɔː ˈlaɪkli tuː bɪˈkʌm 
əˈsjuːmɪŋ 
rɪsks ɑː ˈteɪkən 
kəˈrɪə
strɒŋ ˈlaɪklɪhʊd 
ˈprɒfɪt 
rɪsk-ˈteɪkə 
ɪn ˈkwɛsʧən
dɪˈvɛləp 
məˈtjʊə ˈpɜːsnl rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps
kənˈsɜːvətɪv ˈkʌntriz
ˈsɪərɪəs rəʊˈmæntɪk rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps 
ðə rɪˈzʌlt ɒv ðɪs ɪz ðæt 
ˌɪməˈtjʊə 
pʊə 
nɑːˈiːv 
ɪn tɜːmz ɒv 
ˈɛntəz ˈɪntuː ˈveərɪəs rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪps θru(ː)ˈaʊt 
ˈbɛtə ˈʤʌʤ ɒv ˈkærɪktə 
əˈlɛʤdli 
sɜːv æz ðə faʊnˈdeɪʃən fɔː 
ˈpɜːsnl grəʊθ 
ɪnˈkriːst məˈtjʊərɪti
ə ˈkætəlɪst fɔː trɪˈmɛndəs 
ədˈvaɪzəbl
ˈmɪtɪgeɪtɪd 
ˈkɒntɛksts 
ɪˈnɔːdɪnɪtli ˈrɛklɪs

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 would argue that t________________s, both i____________f one’s p_____________e and one’s w______________r, is a_____________________l. I_________________________________________________n d______o the p_________l for a_________t and g_________h.

Firstly, r__________g can e_________e one’s c__________s. Many workers d______________n that they are c_______t with their p________n in society and therefore often f____________e their potential. Others, however, a_______t various b__________________s and t___________________________d in order to find a g_________h. Although this may lead to s________________________s, in the long-term such a____________________s a_______________________________e very successful in life. A___________g that these r________________n early in one’s c_______r, there is a s_____________d that they will eventually p______t the r___________________________n.

Moreover, an individual who takes risks will also d__________p more m______________________s. In more c____________________________s, many young people do not begin to have s___________________________s until after university. T_________________________t they are often i____________e and it can lead to p____r and n____e choices i________________f marriage and parenting. In contrast, a person who takes risks in their personal life and e____________________________________t high school and university will become a b_________________r. Their a__________y risky behavior can then s_______________________________r p___________________h and i________________y.

In conclusion, taking risks can be a____________________________s growth and is therefore a__________e. The disadvantages of risk-taking can also be m__________d in most c______________s by not being i____________________s.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/passion/202105/how-inspire-yourself-take-risks

Speaking Practice

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

Life Goals

  1. How important is it for people to set goals?
  2. Do people set different goals at different stages of life?
  3. Are personal goals more important than professional goals?
  4. What sort of goals do young people today set?
  5. Are people becoming more pessimistic about their life goals?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always good.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

https://howtodoielts.com/ielts-essay-change/