IELTS Topic: Technology

IELTS Topic: Technology

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

Check out my exclusive IELTS EBooks here on Patreon.

This includes essays related to science, machines, artificial intelligence, computers, smartphones, space travel, the internet, scientific research, technological progress, and more.

Enjoy!

Dave

IELTS Technology Topics

Innovation is often driven by the pursuit of profit and economic growth. However, some argue that it should prioritize addressing social and environmental issues.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read my essay here on Patreon.

The demand for coaching services has grown significantly in the digital age, with online coaching platforms becoming prevalent. Some now feel online coaching is a superior option to in-person coach.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my EBook essay here.

Many would argue that scientific research requires a degree of oversight from the relevant governmental authorities. In my opinion, properly handled, this is a sensible and necessary policy.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?

Read the Ebook on Patreon here.

Information technology is changing many aspects of our lives and now dominates our home, leisure and work activities.

To what extent do the benefits of information technology outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my sample essay here.

People today often use the internet to learn about the culture of other countries. This means that it is not that important to travel to those countries.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

The crime rate nowadays is decreasing compared to the past due to advances in technology.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Nowadays more tasks at home and work are being performed by robots.

Is this a negative or positive development?

Read my sample essay here.

More and more people today are becoming overly dependent on the internet and phones.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read my sample 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 my sample essay on Patreon.

Some believe technology has made our lives too complex and the solution is to lead a simpler life without technology.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

More and more students at university today are not choosing to study science.

Why is this happening?

What are the effects of this?

Read my sample essay here.

Some people believe that smartphones are destroying social interaction today.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Some today argue that schools are no longer necessary because children can learn so much from the internet and be educated at home.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Governments should spend more money on medical research and less on researching the environment.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Research into medical treatments are essential to improve health and fight disease.

Who do you think should fund this research: individuals, private companies or governments?

Read my sample essay here.

Some old people today struggle with the use of modern technologies such as smartphones and computers.

What is the cause of this?

What are some possible solutions?

Read my sample essay here.

Many people think that mobile phones should be banned in public places such as libraries, shops and public transport.

Do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Some scientists believe that in the future computers will be more intelligent than human beings. While some see this as a positive development others worry about the negative consequences.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Read my sample 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 my sample essay here.

Many people think technological devices such as smart phones, tablets and mobile phones bring more disadvantages than advantages.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

In many workplaces, online communication is now more common than face-to-face meetings.

Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my sample essay here.

In the past, knowledge was contained in books. Nowadays, knowledge is uploaded to the internet.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my sample essay here.

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

Dicuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read my sample essay on Patreon.

Many educational institutions give greater importance to subjects related to science and ignore subjects such as drama and literature.

Why is this?

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read my sample essay here.

Some think scientists should be allowed to send messages into space to communicate with other life forms while others believe this is too dangerous.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read my sample essay here.

One of the most important issues facing the world today is a shortage of food and some think genetically modified foods are a possible solution.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay on Patreon.

The first man to walk on the moon claimed it was a step forward for mankind. However, it has made little difference in most people’s lives.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Computer games are very popular for all ages and nationalities. Parents think this has little educational value and it will be harmful for children.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Some Believe that nuclear weapons benefit the world at large.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay on Patreon.

Some people think students should study the science of food and how to prepare it. Others think students should spend time on important subjects.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read my sample essay here.

Machines are taking over more and more jobs previously done by humans.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages and give your own opinion.

Read my sample essay here.

Many people put their personal information online (address, telephone number, and so on) for purposes such as signing up for social networks or online banking.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read my sample essay here.

Today different types of robots are being developed which can serve as companions and workers to help at work and at home.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read my sample essay here.

Instead of requiring primary school students to do experiments themselves, schools should only alllow them to watch experiments demonstrated by teachers.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers.

Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my sample 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 my sample essay here.

Crime rates will fall as advances in technology make it easier to detect and prevent crimes.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Many adults nowadays prefer spending their free time playing computer games.

Why do they do this?

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read my sample essay here.

Computers are becoming increasingly pervasive in modern life. Some view this is as a positive while others feel it is negative overall.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read my sample essay on Patreon.

Scientific research should be carried out and controlled by the governments rather than private companies.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my sample essay here.

Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business, and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Read my sample essay here.

IELTS Essay: Solution to Crime

IELTS Essay: Solution to Crime

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of the best solution to crime from the real IELTS exam.

I actually wrote about almost the same question a few years back but it’s always good practice to try the same question a second time – especially tricky ones about crime!

Be sure to check out some of my other resources here:

Patreon Ebooks

IELTS Agree Disagree Questions

IELTS Two Questions

IETLS Advantages Disadvantages Questions

IELTS Cause Solution Questions

IELTS Problem Solution Questions

IELTS Discuss both Sides Questions

Dave

IELTS Essay: Solution to Crime

Prison is the common way most countries try to solve the problem of crime. However, a more effective solution is to provide the public a better education.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some would argue that although punishment is the most pervasive means of combatting crime globally, education would in fact be far more efficacious. In my opinion, there are strong grounds for this opinion but ultimately deterrence remains the central core of all legal systems.

Those who favor education are trying to resolve systemic issues. There can be little debate over the fact that crime is overwhelmingly driven by necessity. Individuals who have few other options in life are more likely to see criminal activity as a viable alternative. By educating a population well and providing at minimum a high school diploma for every citizen, governments can effectively eliminate this motive. For instance, countries with quality education systems are much less likely to have high crime rates.

However, the solution detailed above is difficult to implement and the simplest method to discourage crime is to punish criminal acts. There are many justifications cited for punishment but the most basic is the need to deter future crimes. A criminal being put in prison does not reverse their past action but it does deter the same action being committed by other individuals in the future. If there were no punishments or extremely lenient sentences, it is a near inevitability that individuals would commit crimes, for a range of motives, more frequently.

In conclusion, education addresses the root causes of crime yet punishment is still a more effective preventative countermeasure. A combination of both is naturally ideal.

Analysis

1. Some would argue that although punishment is the most pervasive means of combatting crime globally, education would in fact be far more efficacious. 2. In my opinion, there are strong grounds for this opinion but ultimately deterrence remains the central core of all legal systems.

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

1. Those who favor education are trying to resolve systemic issues. 2. There can be little debate over the fact that crime is overwhelmingly driven by necessity. 3. Individuals who have few other options in life are more likely to see criminal activity as a viable alternative. 4. By educating a population well and providing at minimum a high school diploma for every citizen, governments can effectively eliminate this motive. 5. For instance, countries with quality education systems are much less likely to have high crime rates.

  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. However, the solution detailed above is difficult to implement and the simplest method to discourage crime is to punish criminal acts. 2. There are many justifications cited for punishment but the most basic is the need to deter future crimes. 3. A criminal being put in prison does not reverse their past action but it does deter the same action being committed by other individuals in the future. 4. If there were no punishments or extremely lenient sentences, it is a near inevitability that individuals would commit crimes, for a range of motives, more frequently.

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

1. In conclusion, education addresses the root causes of crime yet punishment is still a more effective preventative countermeasure. 2. A combination of both is naturally ideal.

  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 although punishment is the most pervasive means of combatting crime globally, education would in fact be far more efficacious. In my opinion, there are strong grounds for this opinion but ultimately deterrence remains the central core of all legal systems.

Those who favor education are trying to resolve systemic issues. There can be little debate over the fact that crime is overwhelmingly driven by necessity. Individuals who have few other options in life are more likely to see criminal activity as a viable alternative. By educating a population well and providing at minimum a high school diploma for every citizen, governments can effectively eliminate this motive. For instance, countries with quality education systems are much less likely to have high crime rates.

However, the solution detailed above is difficult to implement and the simplest method to discourage crime is to punish criminal acts. There are many justifications cited for punishment but the most basic is the need to deter future crimes. A criminal being put in prison does not reverse their past action but it does deter the same action being committed by other individuals in the future. If there were no punishments or extremely lenient sentences, it is a near inevitability that individuals would commit crimes, for a range of motives, more frequently.

In conclusion, education addresses the root causes of crime yet punishment is still a more effective preventative countermeasure. A combination of both is naturally ideal.

Answers

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

argue point out

although but

most pervasive means of combatting most common way of fighting

globally around the world

education schooling

in fact actually

efficacious effective

strong grounds good basis

ultimately in the end

deterrence not doing something because you are afraid of the consequences

remains still the same

central core foundation

legal systems courts, police, etc.

favor support

resolve systemic issues fix institutional problems

little debate over not much fighting about

fact truth

overwhelmingly much more than

driven by motivated by

necessity needed

few other options in life not many other choices

criminal activity committing crimes

as a viable alternative a good other option

providing at minimum assuming at least

a high school diploma graduating high school

citizen resident

effectively eliminate basically get rid of

motive reason for

quality education systems good schools

high crime rates lots of crimes

detailed above described before

difficult to implement hard to put in place

simplest most basic

discourage deter

punish criminal acts sentence criminals

justifications cited reasons mentioned

most basic fundamental

deter future crimes discourage misbehavior

reverse fix

past action thing done before

extremely lenient sentences not strict punishments

near inevitability almost certain to happen

a range of motives many reasons

addresses deals with

root causes basic sources

preventative countermeasure solution to prevent something

combination more than one thing combined

naturally ideal of course best

Pronunciation

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

ˈɑːgjuː 
ɔːlˈðəʊ 
məʊst pɜːˈveɪsɪv miːnz ɒv ˈkɒmbætɪŋ 
ˈgləʊbəli
ˌɛdju(ː)ˈkeɪʃən 
ɪn fækt 
ˌɛfɪˈkeɪʃəs
strɒŋ graʊndz 
ˈʌltɪmɪtli 
dɪˈtɛrəns 
rɪˈmeɪnz 
ˈsɛntrəl kɔː 
ˈliːgəl ˈsɪstɪmz
ˈfeɪvə 
rɪˈzɒlv sɪˈstɛmɪk ˈɪʃuːz
ˈlɪtl dɪˈbeɪt ˈəʊvə 
fækt 
ˌəʊvəˈwɛlmɪŋli 
ˈdrɪvn baɪ 
nɪˈsɛsɪti
fjuː ˈʌðər ˈɒpʃənz ɪn laɪf 
ˈkrɪmɪnl ækˈtɪvɪti 
æz ə ˈvaɪəbl ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪv
prəˈvaɪdɪŋ æt ˈmɪnɪməm 
ə haɪ skuːl dɪˈpləʊmə 
ˈsɪtɪzn
ɪˈfɛktɪvli ɪˈlɪmɪneɪt 
ˈməʊtɪv
ˈkwɒlɪti ˌɛdju(ː)ˈkeɪʃən ˈsɪstɪmz 
haɪ kraɪm reɪts
ˈdiːteɪld əˈbʌv 
ˈdɪfɪkəlt tuː ˈɪmplɪmənt 
ˈsɪmplɪst 
dɪsˈkʌrɪʤ 
ˈpʌnɪʃ ˈkrɪmɪnl ækts
ˌʤʌstɪfɪˈkeɪʃənz ˈsaɪtɪd 
məʊst ˈbeɪsɪk 
dɪˈtɜː ˈfjuːʧə kraɪmz
rɪˈvɜːs 
pɑːst ˈækʃ(ə)n 
ɪksˈtriːmli ˈliːniənt ˈsɛntənsɪz
nɪər ɪnˌɛvɪtəˈbɪlɪti 
ə reɪnʤ ɒv ˈməʊtɪvz
əˈdrɛsɪz 
ruːt ˈkɔːzɪz
preventətɪv ˈkaʊntəˌmɛʒə
ˌkɒmbɪˈneɪʃən 
ˈnæʧrəli aɪˈdɪəl

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 a_________e that a___________h punishment is the m____________________________________g crime g__________y, e___________n would i_____t be far more e_______________s. In my opinion, there are s___________________s for this opinion but u_____________________________s the c_______________e of all l__________s.

Those who favor education are trying to r_________________s. There can be l_______________r the f____t that crime is o______________________y d___________y n__________y. Individuals who have f______________________e are more likely to see c_______________________________e. By educating a population well and p_______________________________________a for every c______n, governments can e_________________e this m______e. For instance, countries with q________________s are much less likely to have h_______________s.

However, the solution d_____________e is d____________________t and the s______t method to d______________e crime is to p_______________________s. There are many j_______________________d for punishment but the m__________c is the need to d_______________________s. A criminal being put in prison does not r________e their p___________n but it does deter the same action being committed by other individuals in the future. If there were no punishments or e_____________________________s, it is a n____________________y that individuals would commit crimes, for a_____________________________s, more frequently.

In conclusion, education a______________s the r___________s of crime yet punishment is still a more effective p______________________________e. A c____________n of both is n_____________l.

Listening Practice

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wp4fKplfGRc

Reading Practice

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

https://www.newyorker.com/magazine/2021/06/14/the-murder-scandalizing-brazils-evangelical-church

Speaking Practice

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

Crime

  1. Why do people commit crimes?
  2. How can criminals be rehabilitated?
  3. What is the purpose of punishment?
  4. Are punishment and revenge the same?
  5. Will crime become less common in the future?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topics below:

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Map of a Museum in 1990 and 2010

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Map of a Museum in 1990 and 2010

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of a map of a museum in 1990 and 2010child from the real IELTS exam.

Find my full IELTS Ebooks here.

You can find line charts here and bar charts here.

Dave

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Map of a Museum in 1990 and 2010

The diagrams show a museum and its surroundings in 1990 and 2010.

The map details renovations to a museum and the surrounding grounds from 1990 to 2010. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the museum itself decreased the square footage for exhibitions and outside there were significant alterations to the surrounding area to allow for greater access and leisure.

Internally, the museum in 1990 contained a store room in the top left corner, various exhibition spaces on all sides, and a small shop in the bottom right. By 2010, the only modification was that the shop was extended towards the left at the expense of the adjacent exhibition room.

Outside the main structure, the largest single change was the expansion of the car park on the right side which subsumed a garden beneath it. The paths and roads as well as the garden above the car park were unchanged. The final difference was the cottage in the bottom left corner across from the museum was renovated to become a cafe.

Analysis

1. The map details renovations to a museum and the surrounding grounds from 1990 to 2010. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the museum itself decreased the square footage for exhibitions and outside there were significant alterations to the surrounding area to allow for greater access and leisure.

  1. Paraphrase what the map shows.
  2. Write a clear overview summarising the differences.

1. Internally, the museum in 1990 contained a store room in the top left corner, various exhibition spaces on all sides, and a small shop in the bottom right. 2. By 2010, the only modification was that the shop was extended towards the left at the expense of the adjacent exhibition room.

  1. Begin writing about the map.
  2. Make sure you compare as much as possible.

1. Outside the main structure, the largest single change was the expansion of the car park on the right side which subsumed a garden beneath it. 2. The paths and roads as well as the garden above the car park were unchanged. 3. The final difference was the cottage in the bottom left corner across from the museum was renovated to become a cafe.

  1. Write about the final, other parts of the map – include everything!
  2. Compare the categories.
  3. Add in everything, even what has not changed.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean? Take some notes on a piece of paper to aid your memory:

The map details renovations to a museum and the surrounding grounds from 1990 to 2010. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the museum itself decreased the square footage for exhibitions and outside there were significant alterations to the surrounding area to allow for greater access and leisure.

Internally, the museum in 1990 contained a store room in the top left corner, various exhibition spaces on all sides, and a small shop in the bottom right. By 2010, the only modification was that the shop was extended towards the left at the expense of the adjacent exhibition room.

Outside the main structure, the largest single change was the expansion of the car park on the right side which subsumed a garden beneath it. The paths and roads as well as the garden above the car park were unchanged. The final difference was the cottage in the bottom left corner across from the museum was renovated to become a cafe.

Answers

Try to write down or think of an antonym/opposite word for further practice:

details shows

renovations changes

surrounding grounds area around it

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

square footage how large it is inside

exhibitions places to display art

outside not inside

significant alterations big changes

surrounding area places around it

allow for give the possibility of

greater access more ability to get there

leisure relaxation

internally inside

contained what is inside

store room place to keep things

various exhibition spaces different art rooms

all sides all around it

small shop little store

modification change

extended towards lengthened in the direction of

at the expense of over

main structure big building

largest single change biggest one alteration

expansion making bigger

subsumed combined into, taken over

garden place for plants and trees

beneath under

paths roads

roads streets

as well as and

unchanged the same

final difference last alteration

across from on the other side of

renovated changed

cafe coffee shop

Pronunciation

Practice saying the words below using this tip with Google voice dictation:

ˈdiːteɪlz 
ˌrɛnəʊˈveɪʃənz 
səˈraʊndɪŋ graʊndz 
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
skweə ˈfʊtɪʤ 
ˌɛksɪˈbɪʃənz 
ˌaʊtˈsaɪd 
sɪgˈnɪfɪkənt ˌɔːltəˈreɪʃ(ə)nz 
səˈraʊndɪŋ ˈeərɪə 
əˈlaʊ fɔː 
ˈgreɪtər ˈæksɛs 
ˈlɛʒə
ɪnˈtɜːnəli
kənˈteɪnd 
stɔː ruːm 
ˈveərɪəs ˌɛksɪˈbɪʃən ˈspeɪsɪz 
ɔːl saɪdz
smɔːl ʃɒp 
ˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃən 
ɪksˈtɛndɪd təˈwɔːdz 
æt ði ɪksˈpɛns ɒv 
meɪn ˈstrʌkʧə 
ˈlɑːʤɪst ˈsɪŋgl ʧeɪnʤ 
ɪksˈpænʃən 
səbˈsjuːmd 
ˈgɑːdn 
bɪˈniːθ 
pɑːðz 
rəʊdz 
æz wɛl æz 
ʌnˈʧeɪnʤd 
ˈfaɪnl ˈdɪfrəns 
əˈkrɒs frɒm 
ˈrɛnəʊveɪtɪd 
ˈkæfeɪ

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks. Note it on a piece of paper so you can remember better:

The map d__________s r________________s to a museum and the s_________________s from 1990 to 2010. L__________________________________________________t the museum itself decreased the s_____________e for e_____________s and o_______e there were s_____________________s to the s________________a to a_______r g______________s and l_________e.

I__________y, the museum in 1990 c________d a s________m in the top left corner, v___________________s on a_____________s, and a s_________p in the bottom right. By 2010, the only m__________n was that the shop was e______________s the left a__________________f the adjacent exhibition room.

Outside the m_________________e, the l_________________________e was the e__________n of the car park on the right side which s___________d a g________________h it. The p______s and r______s a__________s the garden above the car park were u_________d. The f_________________e was the cottage in the bottom left corner a_____________m the museum was r____________d to become a c___e.

Listening Practice

Listen to the related topic below and practice with these activities:

https://www.youtube.com/c/TheArtInstituteofChicago

Reading Practice

Read more and use these ideas to practice:

https://www.travelandleisure.com/attractions/museums-galleries/museums-with-virtual-tours

Speaking Practice

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

Museums

  1. Have you ever been to a museum?
  2. What kind of art is in museums in your country?
  3. Did you parents take you to museums as a child?
  4. Are museums common in your country?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related chart below and then check with my sample answer:

ielts essay task 1 museums
IELTS Topic: Family

IELTS Topic: Family

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

This includes essays related to children, husbands, wives, spouses, grandparents, work/life balance, houses, apartments, parents, childbirth, and more.

Check out my IELTS EBooks here.

Enjoy!

Dave

IELTS Family Topics

Some believe that research on family history is a useful thing to do, while others disagree.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Read the full essay here.

In marriages today, some argue that it is the responsibility of both spouses to earn a living for the family.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?  

Read my sample essay here.

More and more people today are moving away from where their friends and family live.

Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my sample here.

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?

Read my essay here.

In some countries, there has been an increase in the number of advertisements which try to persuade children to buy snacks, toys, and other goods. Parents often claim that these ads are unfair.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Read my essay here.

In many countries, children are becoming overweight and unhealthy. Some people think that the government has the responsibility to solve this problem.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay here.

Some believe that younger family members should be legally responsible for supporting older family members when they become physically, mentally and financially unable to look after themselves.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay here.

Today family members eat fewer meals together.

Why is this?

Is this a positive or negative trend?

Read my essay here.

Many parents encourage young people to leave home when they become older, while others think they should stay at home with the family.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read my essay here.

Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read my essay here.

Many people think that it is better to get advice from old rather than young people.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay here.

Many parents today do not spend much time with their children.

Why is this?

Does this affect parents or children more?

Read my essay here.

In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?

Read my essay here.

It is better for children if the whole family including aunts, uncles and so on are involved in a child’s upbringing, rather than just their parents.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay here.

In some places, young people find it difficult to communicate with older people.

Why is this?

What are the solutions?

Read my essay here.

These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children while mothers go out to work.

What could be the reasons for this? Is it a positive or negative development?

Read my essay here.

Some people believe that the experiences children have before they go to school will have the greatest effect on their future life. Others argue that experiences gained when they are teenagers have a bigger influence.

Discuss both views and give your own opinions.

Read my essay here.

It is sometimes suggested that primary schoolchildren should learn how to grow vegetables and keep animals.

Do you think that the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my essay here.

Parents should take courses in parenting in order to improve the lives of their children.

To what extent do you agree?

Read my essay on Patreon.

Many people who care for the elderly do not have enough time to look after them.

What are the problems related to this?

What are some possible solutions?

Read my essay here.

Some people believe that family is more important than friends.

To what extent do you agree and disagree?

Read my essay here.

Many people nowadays tend to marry and have children in their thirties rather than at a younger age.

Is this a positive or negative development?

Read my essay here.

Some people think parents are responsible for transporting their children to school. Others think it is the government’s responsibility.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Read my essay here.

Fewer and fewer children are willing to look after their parents as they get older these days.

Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my essay here.

All fathers should be entitled to time-off from work when their children are born.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay here.

Childhood obesity has become a serious problem in recent years.

What are the primary causes of this?

What measures should be taken to reduce childhood obesity?

Read my essay here.

Some people spend a lot of money celebrating personal family events, such as weddings and birthdays.

How important is it to celebrate such events?

Do you think people spend too much money on these events?

Read my essay here.

People nowadays tend to have children at older ages.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Read my essay here.

In many countries, crimes rates amongst younger people has been rising.

Discuss the causes and solutions for this problem.

Read my essay here.

Some people think that children can learn about history by visiting museums, while others feel that there are better ways to learn about history.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Read my essay here.

Some people believe that children should do sports so that they will grow up as healthy adults, but others feel sports are just about enjoying yourself.

Discuss these both views and give your own opinion.

Read my essay here.

Some people think children should have the freedom to make mistakes, while other people believe that adults should prevent children from making mistakes.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Read my essay here.

Children are now facing educational, social, and commercial pressures.

What are the causes of these pressures?

What measures can be taken to reduce them?

Read my essay here.

Some think that fathers should have time off from work after the birth of a child.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my essay here.

Because many children are not able to learn foreign languages, schools should not force them to learn foreign languages.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Read my 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 my essay here.

Nowadays, families are not as close as in the past and a lot of people have become used to this.

Why is this happening?

Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the drawbacks?

Read my essay on Patreon.

IELTS Task 2 General Training Essay: Recycling

IELTS Task 2 General Training Essay: Recycling

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

Be sure to check out some of my other resources here:

Patreon Ebooks

IELTS Problem Solution Questions

IELTS Discuss both Sides Questions

IELTS Agree / Disagree Questions

Dave

IELTS Task 2 General Training Essay: Recycling

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?

Many today would claim that the optimal method to encourage individuals to recycle more often is for governments to legally enforce it. In my opinion, there are subtler approaches governments could take though this reform would undoubtedly be effective.

The principle rationale in favor of this argument is that only governments can force the average person to act when there are pressing social concerns. The world is facing an uncertain future because of increasingly severe environmental problems largely related to overpopulation and human activity. Therefore, governments can justifiably compel their citizens to contribute to the solution by recycling. At the moment, only a small proportion of households recycle consistently but a law that required all families to separate and categorize their garbage would undeniably help combat climate change. This is best evidenced in nations where residents do recycle frequently and the environment is not as direly threatened, such as in Japan.

However, the public backlash to this reform could be avoided with more nuanced reforms. Instead of forcing all households to recycle the government could institute a variety of reforms such as offering incentives to companies that recycle, educating young people about the benefits of recycling, and making recycling in schools a point of emphasis. These minor alterations to existing policy would allow the general public to slowly transition to a more sustainable lifestyle and avoid any potential controversy. If, on the other hand, the reforms were strictly mandated, there is a strong chance that in nations like the United States where individuals are protective of their civil liberties, the government might do more harm than good in the short-term.

In conclusion, though compulsory recycling is a well-intentioned aim, it should not be prioritized over less invasive regulations. In this way, governments will be able to achieve long-term success without alienating the public.

Analysis

1. Many today would claim that the optimal method to encourage individuals to recycle more often is for governments to legally enforce it. 2. In my opinion, there are subtler approaches governments could take though this reform would undoubtedly be effective.

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

1. The principle rationale in favor of this argument is that only governments can force the average person to act when there are pressing social concerns. 2. The world is facing an uncertain future because of increasingly severe environmental problems largely related to overpopulation and human activity. 3. Therefore, governments can justifiably compel their citizens to contribute to the solution by recycling. 4. At the moment, only a small proportion of households recycle consistently but a law that required all families to separate and categorize their garbage would undeniably help combat climate change. 5. This is best evidenced in nations where residents do recycle frequently and the environment is not as direly threatened, such as in Japan.

  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. State the fullest possible result.

1. However, the public backlash to this reform could be avoided with more nuanced reforms. 2. Instead of forcing all households to recycle the government could institute a variety of reforms such as offering incentives to companies that recycle, educating young people about the benefits of recycling, and making recycling in schools a point of emphasis. 3. These minor alterations to existing policy would allow the general public to slowly transition to a more sustainable lifestyle and avoid any potential controversy. 4. If, on the other hand, the reforms were strictly mandated, there is a strong chance that in nations like the United States where individuals are protective of their civil liberties, the government might do more harm than good in the short-term.

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

1. In conclusion, though compulsory recycling is a well-intentioned aim, it should not be prioritized over less invasive regulations. 2. In this way, governments will be able to achieve long-term success without alienating the public.

  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 would claim that the optimal method to encourage individuals to recycle more often is for governments to legally enforce it. In my opinion, there are subtler approaches governments could take though this reform would undoubtedly be effective.

The principle rationale in favor of this argument is that only governments can force the average person to act when there are pressing social concerns. The world is facing an uncertain future because of increasingly severe environmental problems largely related to overpopulation and human activity. Therefore, governments can justifiably compel their citizens to contribute to the solution by recycling. At the moment, only a small proportion of households recycle consistently but a law that required all families to separate and categorize their garbage would undeniably help combat climate change. This is best evidenced in nations where residents do recycle frequently and the environment is not as direly threatened, such as in Japan.

However, the public backlash to this reform could be avoided with more nuanced reforms. Instead of forcing all households to recycle the government could institute a variety of reforms such as offering incentives to companies that recycle, educating young people about the benefits of recycling, and making recycling in schools a point of emphasis. These minor alterations to existing policy would allow the general public to slowly transition to a more sustainable lifestyle and avoid any potential controversy. If, on the other hand, the reforms were strictly mandated, there is a strong chance that in nations like the United States where individuals are protective of their civil liberties, the government might do more harm than good in the short-term.

In conclusion, though compulsory recycling is a well-intentioned aim, it should not be prioritized over less invasive regulations. In this way, governments will be able to achieve long-term success without alienating the public.

Answers

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

claim argue

optimal method best way

encourage say it is a good idea

recycle turn waste into something new

legally enforce make into a law

subtler approaches not as overt change

though however

reform change

undoubtedly definitely

effective would work

principle rationale main reason

in favor of supporting

argument claim

force make them do this

average person normal resident

pressing social concerns important problems for all of the public

facing confronting

uncertain future not a clear future

increasingly severe getting worse and worse

environmental problems issues related to nature

largely related to mostly concerning

overpopulation more and more people

human activity what people do

justifiably compel with good reason force

contribute add to

solution remedy

At the moment right now

small proportion little percentage

consistently all the time

required need to

separate apart from

categorize put into groups

garbage trash

undeniably definitely

combat climate change fight the worsening environment

evidenced supported by

residents people who live in place, citizens

direly threatened deeply at risk

public backlash people angry about it

avoided get around

nuanced reforms complex new regulations

Instead of rather than

institute put in place

variety different kinds

offering incentives give rewards

benefits good for

a point of emphasis something to focus on

minor alterations small changes

existing policy what is already being done

slowly transition over time move to

sustainable lifestyle environmentally-friendly ways of living

avoid any potential controversy stay away from upsetting people

reforms changes

strictly mandated strong laws

strong chance good chance of

protective care a lot about

civil liberties freedoms

might do more harm than good in the short-term might actually hurt

compulsory required

well-intentioned aim good intentions, mean well

prioritized over considered more important than

invasive have a deep impact

In this way through this method

achieve long-term success sustainable results

alienating upsetting, making angry

Pronunciation

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

kleɪm 
ˈɒptɪməl ˈmɛθəd 
ɪnˈkʌrɪʤ 
ˌriːˈsaɪkl 
ˈliːgəli ɪnˈfɔːs
ˈsʌtlər əˈprəʊʧɪz 
ðəʊ 
ˌriːˈfɔːm 
ʌnˈdaʊtɪdli 
ɪˈfɛktɪv
ˈprɪnsəpl ˌræʃəˈnɑːl 
ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv 
ˈɑːgjʊmənt 
fɔːs 
ˈævərɪʤ ˈpɜːsn 
ˈprɛsɪŋ ˈsəʊʃəl kənˈsɜːnz
ˈfeɪsɪŋ 
ʌnˈsɜːtn ˈfjuːʧə 
ɪnˈkriːsɪŋli sɪˈvɪə 
ɪnˌvaɪərənˈmɛntl ˈprɒbləmz 
ˈlɑːʤli rɪˈleɪtɪd tuː 
ˌəʊvəˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən 
ˈhjuːmən ækˈtɪvɪti
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪəbli kəmˈpɛl 
kənˈtrɪbju(ː)t 
səˈluːʃən 
æt ðə ˈməʊmənt
smɔːl prəˈpɔːʃən 
kənˈsɪstəntli 
rɪˈkwaɪəd 
ˈsɛprɪt 
ˈkætɪgəraɪz 
ˈgɑːbɪʤ 
ˌʌndɪˈnaɪəbli 
ˈkɒmbæt ˈklaɪmɪt ʧeɪnʤ
ˈɛvɪdənst 
ˈrɛzɪdənts 
ˈdaɪəli ˈθrɛtnd
ˈpʌblɪk ˈbæklæʃ 
əˈvɔɪdɪd 
nju(ː)ˈɑːnst ˌriːˈfɔːmz
ɪnˈstɛd ɒv 
ˈɪnstɪtjuːt 
vəˈraɪəti 
ˈɒfərɪŋ ɪnˈsɛntɪvz 
ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
ə pɔɪnt ɒv ˈɛmfəsɪs 
ˈmaɪnər ˌɔːltəˈreɪʃ(ə)nz 
ɪgˈzɪstɪŋ ˈpɒlɪsi 
ˈsləʊli trænˈzɪʃ(ə)n
səsˈteɪnəbl ˈlaɪfˌstaɪl 
əˈvɔɪd ˈɛni pəʊˈtɛnʃəl ˈkɒntrəvɜːsi
ˌriːˈfɔːmz 
ˈstrɪktli ˈmændeɪtɪd
strɒŋ ʧɑːns 
prəˈtɛktɪv 
ˈsɪvl ˈlɪbətiz
maɪt duː mɔː hɑːm ðæn gʊd ɪn ðə ʃɔːt-tɜːm
kəmˈpʌlsəri 
wɛl-ɪnˈtɛnʃənd eɪm
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪzd ˈəʊvə 
ɪnˈveɪsɪv 
ɪn ðɪs weɪ
əˈʧiːv ˈlɒŋtɜːm səkˈsɛs 
ˈeɪliəneɪtɪŋ 

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 would c______m that the o_________________d to e______________e individuals to r________e more often is for governments to l________________e it. In my opinion, there are s_____________________s governments could take t________h this r_______m would u_________________y be e__________e.

The p______________________e i_____________f this a____________t is that only governments can f_____e the a_________________n to act when there are p________________________s. The world is f______g an u___________________e because of i________________________e e_____________________s l_______________________o o______________n and h______________y. Therefore, governments can j________________l their citizens to c______________e to the s_________n by recycling. A_______________t, only a s______________n of households recycle c_________________y but a law that r_____________d all families to s___________e and c____________e their g__________e would u___________y help c______________________e. This is best e__________d in nations where r_________s do recycle frequently and the environment is not as d________________d, such as in Japan.

However, the p______________h to this reform could be a_______d with more n________________s. I____________f forcing all households to recycle the government could i___________e a v________y of reforms such as o_______________s to companies that recycle, educating young people about the b__________s of recycling, and making recycling in schools a_____________________s. These m________________s to e________________y would allow the general public to s______________________n to a more s______________________e and a______________________________y. If, on the other hand, the r_________s were s_____________________d, there is a s_______________e that in nations like the United States where individuals are p_______________e of their c________________s, the government m___________________________________________________________m.

In conclusion, though c______________y recycling is a w_____________________________m, it should not be p___________________r less i_____________e regulations. I_______________y, governments will be able to a_____________________________s without a_____________g the public.

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.bbc.com/future/article/20220525-what-can-and-cant-be-recycled

Speaking Practice

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

Environment

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

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

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