Some groups of people have decided to reduce the number of times they fly every year or to stop flying altogether.
Do you think that the environmental benefits of this development outweigh the disadvantages for individuals and businesses?
In recent years, a growing number of individuals have chosen to limit or completely eliminate air travel from their lives, largely due to concerns about its environmental impact. While this shift may be economically inconvenient, I believe the environmental benefits far outweigh this downside from a long-term, global perspective.
On the one hand, it is undeniable that reducing air travel can negatively affect individuals and businesses. For example, frequent flyers, such as international consultants or academics attending conferences, rely on the ease and speed that air travel offers. In 2019, for instance, researchers from developing countries struggled to attend a major climate summit in Sweden after organizers encouraged train travel over flying. Similarly, the tourism and hospitality sectors in countries like Thailand or the Maldives would face significant economic losses if people worldwide reduced their flying. A decline in air travel due to environmental reasons during the COVID-19 pandemic led to an estimated loss of billions in global tourism revenues in 2020 alone.
However, the true impact of flying is difficult to fully quantify. Flights leave an outsized carbon footprint due to CO2 emissions at high altitudes, which can triple the climate effect. One transatlantic round-trip flight emits as much CO2 as the average person in some developing countries produces in years. By reducing such flights, individuals can drastically cut their personal carbon footprints. The impact of this was evident during the Swedish movement called ‘flight shame,’ which led to a decrease in domestic air travel in Sweden in the 2010s, while train usage increased significantly. This kind of behavioral change not only reduced emissions directly but also sent a strong market signal that spurred investment in greener transport options. Other countries adopting such an approach would necessarily encourage high-speed rail constructions and electric aviation startups.
In conclusion, while reducing the frequency of air travel may inconvenience individuals and hurt certain industries, the long-term environmental advantages are more significant. In a world increasingly threatened by climate change, these sacrifices are not only worthwhile but necessary.
Analysis
1. In recent years, a growing number of individuals have chosen to limit or completely eliminate air travel from their lives, largely due to concerns about its environmental impact. 2. While this shift may be economically inconvenient, I believe the environmental benefits far outweigh this downside from a long-term, global perspective.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. On the one hand, it is undeniable that reducing air travel can negatively affect individuals and businesses. 2. For example, frequent flyers, such as international consultants or academics attending conferences, rely on the ease and speed that air travel offers. 3. In 2019, for instance, researchers from developing countries struggled to attend a major climate summit in Sweden after organizers encouraged train travel over flying. 4. Similarly, the tourism and hospitality sectors in countries like Thailand or the Maldives would face significant economic losses if people worldwide reduced their flying. 5. A decline in air travel due to environmental reasons during the COVID-19 pandemic led to an estimated loss of billions in global tourism revenues in 2020 alone.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
Better to have more detail.
1. However, the true impact of flying is difficult to fully quantify. 2. Flights leave an outsized carbon footprint due to CO2 emissions at high altitudes, which can triple the climate effect. 3. One transatlantic round-trip flight emits as much CO2 as the average person in some developing countries produces in years. 4. By reducing such flights, individuals can drastically cut their personal carbon footprints. 5. The impact of this was evident during the Swedish movement called ‘flight shame,’ which led to a decrease in domestic air travel in Sweden in the 2010s, while train usage increased significantly. 6. This kind of behavioral change not only reduced emissions directly but also sent a strong market signal that spurred investment in greener transport options. 7. Other countries adopting such an approach would necessarily encourage high-speed rail constructions and electric aviation startups.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Keep developing.
Focus on this topic and don’t get sidetracked.
This essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
1. In conclusion, while reducing the frequency of air travel may inconvenience individuals and hurt certain industries, the long-term environmental advantages are more significant. 2. In a world increasingly threatened by climate change, these sacrifices are not only worthwhile but necessary.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
In recent years, a growing number of individuals have chosen to limit or completely eliminate air travel from their lives, largely due to concerns about its environmental impact. While this shift may be economically inconvenient, I believe the environmental benefits far outweigh this downside from a long-term, global perspective.
On the one hand, it is undeniable that reducing air travel can negatively affect individuals and businesses. For example, frequent flyers, such as international consultants or academics attending conferences, rely on the ease and speed that air travel offers. In 2019, for instance, researchers from developing countries struggled to attend a major climate summit in Sweden after organizers encouraged train travel over flying. Similarly, the tourism and hospitality sectors in countries like Thailand or the Maldives would face significant economic losses if people worldwide reduced their flying. A decline in air travel due to environmental reasons during the COVID-19 pandemic led to an estimated loss of billions in global tourism revenues in 2020 alone.
However, the true impact of flying is difficult to fully quantify. Flights leave an outsized carbon footprint due to CO2 emissions at high altitudes, which can triple the climate effect. One transatlantic round-trip flight emits as much CO2 as the average person in some developing countries produces in years. By reducing such flights, individuals can drastically cut their personal carbon footprints. The impact of this was evident during the Swedish movement called ‘flight shame,’ which led to a decrease in domestic air travel in Sweden in the 2010s, while train usage increased significantly. This kind of behavioral change not only reduced emissions directly but also sent a strong market signal that spurred investment in greener transport options. Other countries adopting such an approach would necessarily encourage high-speed rail constructions and electric aviation startups.
In conclusion, while reducing the frequency of air travel may inconvenience individuals and hurt certain industries, the long-term environmental advantages are more significant. In a world increasingly threatened by climate change, these sacrifices are not only worthwhile but necessary.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
1. In recent years → Over the past decade 2. a growing number of individuals → an increasing proportion of people 3. limit or completely eliminate air travel → reduce or altogether stop flying 4. largely due to concerns about its environmental impact → primarily because of worries about the harm it causes to the environment 5. shift → transition 6. economically inconvenient → financially burdensome 7. far outweigh this downside → significantly surpass this disadvantage 8. long-term, global perspective → a broader, future-oriented outlook 9. On the one hand → From one angle 10. it is undeniable → it cannot be contested 11. reducing air travel → cutting back on flying 12. frequent flyers → habitual air travelers 13. international consultants → global business advisors 14. academics attending conferences → scholars participating in international seminars 15. rely on the ease and speed that air travel offers → depend on the convenience and rapidity of flying 16. struggled to attend a major climate summit → faced difficulties getting to a key environmental conference 17. organizers encouraged train travel over flying → event planners promoted rail transport instead of planes 18. Similarly → In the same vein 19. tourism and hospitality sectors → travel and accommodation industries 20. would face significant economic losses → could suffer major financial setbacks 21. worldwide reduced their flying → globally cut down on air travel 22. decline → downturn 23. during the COVID-19 pandemic → throughout the coronavirus crisis 24. led to an estimated loss of billions in global tourism revenues → resulted in a projected multibillion-dollar drop in international tourism income 25. in 2020 alone → within just the year 2020 26. the true impact of → the actual consequences of 27. difficult to fully quantify → hard to measure precisely 28. leave an outsized carbon footprint due to → produce a disproportionately large amount of CO₂ because of 29. emissions at high altitudes → pollutants released at elevated atmospheric levels 30. triple the climate effect → cause three times the environmental damage 31. transatlantic round-trip flight emits → a flight across the Atlantic and back produces 32. developing countries → lower-income nations 33. drastically cut their personal carbon footprints → significantly reduce their individual greenhouse gas emissions 34. evident → clearly observable 35. ‘flight shame’ → the social stigma around flying 36. a decrease in domestic air travel → a drop in short-haul or internal flights 37. train usage increased significantly → rail transport saw a notable rise 38. behavioral change → shift in individual habits 39. reduced emissions directly → led to immediate declines in pollution 40. sent a strong market signal → gave a powerful economic message 41. spurred investment in greener transport options → encouraged funding for more sustainable travel alternatives 42. adopting such an approach → embracing this kind of strategy 43. necessarily encourage high-speed rail constructions → would likely support the expansion of fast train networks 44. electric aviation startups → emerging companies focused on battery-powered aircraft 45. reducing the frequency of air travel → flying less often 46. hurt certain industries → negatively affect specific economic sectors 47. long-term environmental advantages are more significant → the ecological benefits over time are more substantial 48. In a world increasingly threatened by → As the planet faces growing danger from 49. sacrifices → personal or economic trade-offs 50. not only worthwhile but necessary → both justified and essential
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
In ________ years, a ________________ individuals have chosen to limit _______________________ travel from their lives, largely __________________________________ impact. While this s____t may be economically _____________t, I believe the environmental benefits far _______________ downside from a long-term__________perspective.
On __________ hand, it _____ undeniable that reducing ________ travel can negatively affect individuals and businesses. For example, frequent _______s, such as international ______________s or academics ___________ conferences, rely _________________________ offers. In 2019, for instance, researchers from developing countries struggled ____________________________________ summit in Sweden after organizers ________________________ flying. S__________y, the tourism __________________ sectors in countries like Thailand or the Maldives would ______________________ losses if people worldwide _________________ flying. A d_______e in air travel due to environmental reasons during _________________________c led ___________________________________________________________ revenues in ___________ alone.
However, the ________________________ of flying is difficult ____________ quantify. Flights leave _____________________________ to CO2 emissions _________ altitudes, which can triple _________ effect. One transatlantic ________________ emits as much CO2 as the average person in some developing ___________s produces in years. By reducing such flights, individuals can drastically ______________________________ footprints. The impact of this was e________t during the Swedish movement called ‘flight _______e,’ which led to a _________________________ travel in Sweden in the 2010s, while train __________________ significantly. This kind of behavioral ________e not only reduced ____________ directly but also sent __________________ signal that spurred ______________________________ options. Other countries adopting _________ approach would necessarily ______________________________________ constructions and electric ___________ startups.
In conclusion, while reducing _________________________________ travel may inconvenience individuals and hurt __________ industries, the long-term ________________________________________ significant. In ______________________________________ by climate change, these s____________s are not __________________________ necessary.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Long distance flight consumes the amount of fuel that a car uses for many years and pollutes the air. Some people think that we should discourage non-essential flights, such as tourists travel, rather than limit the use of cars.
This is my IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay from the new IELTS Cambridge 20 book of past tests on the topic of a map showing Beechwood Farm in the past in the present day.
If you sign up for my Patreon below, you will get access to many years’ worth of past EBook and PDFs – that are only available on Patreon here:
The plans below show the site of a farm in 1950 and the same site today.
Analysis
1. The maps detail Beechwood farm in the past and the present day. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that farming operations have greatly expanded to allow for recreational activities related to camping. 3. There have also been improvements implemented in terms of accessibility and energy generation, while only major infrastructure remains unchanged.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear overview.
Your overview should be two sentences.
1. In the year 1950, the farm was relatively simple in design with the majority of land dedicated to a northeastern pasture for sheep grazing. 2. Today, this same space now accommodates an array of solar panels, two parking areas, and a large campground. 3. The previous track bisecting the northern and southern sections of the farm and featuring a triangular middle intersection is now a road with an unaltered shape and direction.
Begin describing the map.
Make sure that you compare between sentences.
And include as much information as possible.
1. In the southern half of the farm, the fruit trees, soft fruits, and vegetable plots to the west are largely unchanged (the sole addition is a farm shop near the main road running to the north). 2. To the east, a new barn connected to the updated road has been constructed in an empty lot of land. 3. Further east, a long farmhouse and chickencoop remain unaltered, with the only new addition being a row of holiday cottages. 4. The curving river surrounding the farm to the south and the road going west to northeast are identical in structure and direction.
Switch to the rest of the map.
Vary short and long sentences.
Include everything and keep comparing.
Aim for under 200 words.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The maps detail Beechwood farm in the past and the present day. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that farming operations have greatly expanded to allow for recreational activities related to camping. There have also been improvements implementedin terms of accessibility and energy generation, while only major infrastructure remains unchanged.
In the year 1950, the farm was relatively simple in design with the majority of land dedicated to a northeastern pasture for sheep grazing. Today, this same space now accommodates an array of solar panels, two parking areas, and a large campground. The previous track bisecting the northern and southern sections of the farm and featuring a triangular middle intersection is now a road with an unaltered shape and direction.
In the southern half of the farm, the fruit trees, soft fruits, and vegetable plots to the west are largely unchanged (the sole addition is a farm shop near the main road running to the north). To the east, a new barn connected to the updated road has been constructed in an empty lot of land. Further east, a long farmhouse and chickencoop remain unaltered, with the only new addition being a row of holiday cottages. The curving river surrounding the farm to the south and the road going west to northeast are identical in structure and direction.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
detail → show
in the past and the present day → historically and currently
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that farming operations → From a broad viewpoint, it is clear that agricultural activities
greatly expanded to allow for → significantly developed to make room for
recreational activities related to camping → leisure pursuits associated with camping
improvements implemented → enhancements made
in terms of → regarding
accessibility and energy generation → transport access and power production
major infrastructure remains unchanged → key facilities have stayed the same
relatively simple in design with → fairly basic in structure, featuring
majority of land dedicated to → most of the area used for
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 maps d_____l Beechwood farm in ______________________ day. Looking _____________________________________________________________ operations have greatly ___________________________________ camping. There have also been improvements _____________________________________________________ generation, while only major ____________________________ unchanged.
In the year 1950, the farm was relatively ______________ with the majority ______________ to a northeastern p________e for sheep ________g. Today, this ________________ accommodates an a______y of solar panels, two parking areas, and a large ___________d. The previous track b_______g the northern and southern s________s of the farm and featuring ______________________ intersection is now a road with an unaltered _________ direction.
In __________________ the farm, the fruit trees, soft fruits, and vegetable plots to ________ west are largely _________d (the sole _________n is a farm shop near the main ___________________ north). To the east, a new barn connected ___________________ road has been constructed ___________________ land. Further _____t, a long farmhouse and chickencoop remain __________d, with ______________________________ being a row of holiday __________s. The curving _______________________ farm to the south and the road going west to northeast are identical ________________________ direction.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
In certain countries, primary and secondary schools close for two months or more in the summer holidays.
What is the value of long school holidays?
What are the arguments in favour of shorter school holidays?
While long school holidays have traditionally been considered a necessary break in the academic calendar, their value is under increasing scrutiny today. In my opinion, the benefits of a rest period greatly outweigh any perceived learning losses.
The most commonly cited drawback of a long holiday concerns the issue of “summer learning loss,” particularly for younger students. A study by independent organizations in the United States reported that students lose on average one month of learning in reading and mathematics during long holidays, with low-income students disproportionately affected. In countries like the Netherlands, where the summer break is just six weeks, the curriculum is structured to minimize this gap. Shorter, more frequent holidays spread throughout the year, as is standard in Japan, can help maintain academic momentum while still providing students periodic relief from stressful academic work.
The primary advantage of extended school holidays is the opportunity to recharge physically and emotionally. After months of studying, tests, and regimented schedules, children often suffer from burnout. A long summer holiday allows them to recuperate. For example, in countries like Germany, which has a six-week summer break, students use the time to travel domestically with family, attend music camps, or participate in forest schools, programs that build resilience and curiosity through outdoor education. These activities foster creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills that the classroom often cannot accommodate. Relatedly, teachers also benefit from this pause, using the time to develop lesson plans, attend professional development workshops, or simply avoid occupational fatigue, which has been linked to high attrition rates in many countries.
In conclusion, long school holidays undoubtedly offer valuable time for rest despite the marginal impact on academics. The summer holiday period should be embraced by all interested parties and governing bodies.
Analysis
1. While long school holidays have traditionally been considered a necessary break in the academic calendar, their value is under increasing scrutiny today. 2. In my opinion, the benefits of a rest period greatly outweigh any perceived learning losses.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The most commonly cited drawback of a long holiday concerns the issue of “summer learning loss,” particularly for younger students. 2. A study by independent organizations in the United States reported that students lose on average one month of learning in reading and mathematics during long holidays, with low-income students disproportionately affected. 3. In countries like the Netherlands, where the summer break is just six weeks, the curriculum is structured to minimize this gap. 4. Shorter, more frequent holidays spread throughout the year, as is standard in Japan, can help maintain academic momentum while still providing students periodic relief from stressful academic work.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
1. The primary advantage of extended school holidays is the opportunity to recharge physically and emotionally. 2. After months of studying, tests, and regimented schedules, children often suffer from burnout. 3. A long summer holiday allows them to recuperate. 4. For example, in countries like Germany, which has a six-week summer break, students use the time to travel domestically with family, attend music camps, or participate in forest schools, programs that build resilience and curiosity through outdoor education. 5. These activities foster creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills that the classroom often cannot accommodate. 6. Relatedly, teachers also benefit from this pause, using the time to develop lesson plans, attend professional development workshops, or simply avoid occupational fatigue, which has been linked to high attrition rates in many countries.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Vary long and short sentences.
Finish the paragraph strong.
1. In conclusion, long school holidays undoubtedly offer valuable time for rest despite the marginal impact on academics. 2. The summer holiday period should be embraced by all interested parties and governing bodies.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
While long school holidays have traditionally been considered a necessary break in the academic calendar, their value is under increasing scrutiny today. In my opinion, the benefits of a rest period greatly outweigh any perceived learning losses.
The most commonly cited drawback of a long holiday concerns the issue of “summer learning loss,” particularly for younger students. A study by independent organizations in the United States reported that students lose on average one month of learning in reading and mathematics during long holidays, with low-income students disproportionately affected. In countries like the Netherlands, where the summer break is just six weeks, the curriculum is structured to minimize this gap. Shorter, more frequent holidays spread throughout the year, as is standard in Japan, can help maintain academic momentum while still providing students periodic relief from stressful academic work.
The primary advantage of extended school holidays is the opportunity to recharge physically and emotionally. After months of studying, tests, and regimented schedules, children often suffer from burnout. A long summer holiday allows them to recuperate. For example, in countries like Germany, which has a six-week summer break, students use the time to travel domestically with family, attend music camps, or participate in forest schools, programs that build resilience and curiosity through outdoor education. These activities foster creativity, independence, and problem-solving skills that the classroom often cannot accommodate. Relatedly, teachers also benefit from this pause, using the time to develop lesson plans, attend professional development workshops, or simply avoid occupational fatigue, which has been linked to high attrition rates in many countries.
In conclusion, long school holidays undoubtedly offer valuable time for rest despite the marginal impact on academics. The summer holiday period should be embraced by all interested parties and governing bodies.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
long school holidays ➜ extended academic breaks
traditionally been considered a necessary break ➜ historically viewed as an essential respite
academic calendar ➜ school-year schedule
value is under increasing scrutiny today ➜ its benefits are being questioned more and more
rest period greatly outweigh any perceived learning losses ➜ downtime significantly surpasses any supposed educational setbacks
The most commonly cited drawback of ➜ The most frequently mentioned disadvantage of
concerns the issue of ➜ relates to the matter of
particularly for ➜ especially in the case of
A study by independent organizations in ➜ Research conducted by third-party institutions in
lose on average one month of learning in reading and mathematics during long holidays ➜ typically fall behind by about four weeks in literacy and numeracy over extended breaks
low-income students disproportionately affected ➜ students from disadvantaged backgrounds are more severely impacted
curriculum ➜ course of study
structured to minimize this gap ➜ designed to reduce this disparity
more frequent holidays spread throughout the year ➜ shorter breaks distributed evenly across the calendar
as is standard in Japan ➜ following the model commonly used in Japan
help maintain academic momentum ➜ support consistent educational progress
providing students periodic relief ➜ offering learners regular intervals of rest
stressful academic work ➜ demanding school-related tasks
recharge physically and emotionally ➜ restore both body and mind
travel domestically ➜ take trips within the country
attend music camps ➜ enroll in musical enrichment programs
participate in forest schools ➜ join nature-based educational programs
programs that build resilience and curiosity through outdoor education ➜ initiatives promoting mental strength and inquisitiveness via nature-based learning
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:
While long __________ holidays have traditionally __________________________________ break in the academic _____________r, their value ______________________________ today. In my opinion, the benefits of a rest ______________________________________________ losses.
The _______________________________ of a long holiday concerns _____________ of “summer learning loss,” particularly ___r younger students. A ___________________________________________ in the United States reported that students lose ______________________________________________________________________ holidays, with low-income ___________________________ affected. In countries like the Netherlands, where the summer break is just six weeks, the c____________m is structured ____________________________ gap. Shorter, more ____________________________________________________ year, as ________________ Japan, can help _______________________ momentum while still providing ___________________ relief from stressful __________________ work.
The primary advantage of extended school holidays is the opportunity to recharge _________________ emotionally. After months of studying, tests, and regimented ____________s, children often suffer from b__________t. A long summer holiday allows them to r__________e. For example, in countries like Germany, which has a six-week summer break, students use the time to travel _______________y with family, attend ___________ camps, or participate _______________ schools, programs ___________________________________________________________ education. These activities foster ______________________________________________ skills that the classroom often cannot a____________e. R__________y, teachers also benefit from this p_______e, using the time to develop ___________________________________________________ workshops, or simply avoid _______________ fatigue, which has ____________ linked to high _______________ rates in many countries.
In conclusion, long school holidays u____________y offer valuable _______________________________________________ academics. The summer ____________ period should be embraced _____________________ parties and governing _________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
Question 2: Do you usually spend your days off with your parents or with your friends?
Question 3: Do you make plans for your day off?
Question 4: When was the last time you had a few days off?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:
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.
This is my IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of the population of New York City from the newly released Cambridge 20 books of past IELTS tests.
If you sign up for my Patreon below, you will get access to many years’ worth of past EBook and PDFs – that are only available on Patreon here:
IELTS Cambridge 20 Task 1 Essay: Population of New York City
The first table below shows changes in the total population of New York City from 1800 to 2000. The second and third tables show changes in the population of the five districts of the city (Manhattan, Brooklyn, Bronx, Queens, Staten Island) over the same period.
The tables detail overall population figures in New York City and statistics concerning the surrounding boroughs compared to Manhattan from the year 1800 to 2000. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the dramatic overall growth is strongly correlated with increases in population growth outside of Manhattan. The proportional dominance of the outer boroughs over Manhattan has widened notably in the last century in particular.
In the year 1800, the vast majority of New York City’s total population (79,216) was situated in Manhattan (60,515 or 76%), far above the corresponding figure for other outlying districts (18,710 or 24%). Over the subsequent century, there occurred a pronounced shift with a narrow majority of 54% of the population (1,850,093) living in Manhattan and 46% outside the city center (1,587,109). The total population figure also surged to 3,437,202.
In the last one hundred years, the pattern detailed above only increased in velocity as other districts now represent 81% of the population at a total population figure of 6,471,089. In contrast, residents in Manhattan slipped to 19%, or 1,538,096. The combined total was 8,009,185.
Analysis
1. The tables detail overall population figures in New York City and statistics concerning the surrounding boroughs compared to Manhattan from the year 1800 to 2000. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the dramatic overall growth is strongly correlated with increases in population growth outside of Manhattan. 3. The proportional dominance of the outer boroughs over Manhattan has widened notably in the last century in particular.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear overview.
Your overview should be two sentences.
1. In the year 1800, the vast majority of New York City’s total population (79,216) was situated in Manhattan (60,515 or 76%), far above the corresponding figure for other outlying districts (18,710 or 24%). 2. Over the subsequent century, there occurred a pronounced shift with a narrow majority of 54% of the population (1,850,093) living in Manhattan and 46% outside the city center (1,587,109). 3. The total population figure also surged to 3,437,202.
Begin describing the data.
Make sure that you compare between sentences.
And include as much data as possible.
1. In the last one hundred years, the pattern detailed above only increased in velocity as other districts now represent 81% of the population at a total population figure of 6,471,089. 2. In contrast, residents in Manhattan slipped to 19%, or 1,538,096. 3. The combined total was 8,009,185.
Switch to the other table.
Vary short and long sentences.
Include everything and keep comparing.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
The tables detailoverall population figures in New York City and statistics concerning the surrounding boroughs compared to Manhattan from the year 1800 to 2000. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the dramatic overall growth is strongly correlated with increases in population growth outside of Manhattan. The proportional dominance of the outer boroughs over Manhattan has widened notably in the last century in particular.
In the year 1800, the vast majority of New York City’s total population (79,216) was situated in Manhattan (60,515 or 76%), far above the corresponding figure for other outlying districts (18,710 or 24%). Over the subsequent century, there occurred a pronounced shift with a narrow majority of 54% of the population (1,850,093) living in Manhattan and 46% outside the city center (1,587,109). The total population figure also surged to 3,437,202.
In the last one hundred years, the pattern detailed above only increased in velocity as other districts now represent 81% of the population at a total population figure of 6,471,089. In contrast, residents in Manhattan slipped to 19%, or 1,538,096. The combined total was 8,009,185.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
Original: detail overall population figures Synonym: outline total demographic numbers
Original: in statistics concerning the surrounding boroughs Synonym: within data related to neighboring districts
Original: compared to Synonym: in contrast with
Original: Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the dramatic overall growth Synonym: From a broad viewpoint, it is clear that the significant expansion
Original: strongly correlated with increases Synonym: closely linked to rises
Original: population growth outside of Synonym: demographic expansion beyond
Original: proportional dominance of the outer boroughs over Synonym: relative majority of the peripheral areas compared to
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 tables detail____________________ in New York City and statistics ___________________________________________________ to Manhattan from the year 1800 to 2000. Looking _______________________________________________ that the dramatic _____________ growth is strongly _____________________ increases in population ______________________ of Manhattan. The proportional ______________________________________ over Manhattan has widened __________________________________ particular.
In the year 1800, the _____________ of New York City’s total population (79,216) was s________d in Manhattan (60,515 or 76%), far __________________________________________________ districts (18,710 or 24%). Over ____________________ century, there __________________________________ shift with a narrow _______________ of 54% of the population (1,850,093) living in Manhattan and 46% outside _____________ center (1,587,109). The total population figure also s________d to 3,437,202.
In ___________________________ years, the pattern _____________________________________ velocity as other districts now r__________t 81% of the population at ____________________________ of 6,471,089. In contrast, r_________s in Manhattan s_______d to 19%, or 1,538,096. The c_______________ total was 8,009,185.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of water being a basic human right from the recently released IELTS Cambridge 20 book of past essays.
If you sign up for my Patreon below, you will get access to many years’ worth of past EBook and PDFs – that are only available on Patreon here:
IELTS Cambridge 20: Clean Water is a Basic Human Right
Access to clean water is a basic human right. Therefore every home should have a water supply that is provided free of charge.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is often argued that since access to clean water is a fundamental human right, it should be given to every household free of charge. I agree that clean water is essential and should be universally accessible, despite the potential expense of such a proposal.
One the one hand, providing unlimited free water to every home engenders serious logistical and financial challenges. Water treatment, maintenance of pipelines, and distribution all require funding, skilled labor, and dedicated infrastructure. If water were completely free, there would be little incentive for consumers to use it responsibly, leading to wastage and overconsumption. Consider the example of California during its 2011–2017 drought: despite public campaigns, many affluent neighborhoods continued to overwater their lawns and fill large swimming pools, as water prices were heavily subsidized. This overuse strained reservoirs and forced emergency water restrictions. As a response, nations like Singapore have implemented a tiered pricing system where basic water needs are affordable, but excessive use is charged at higher rates.
On the other hand, the argument that clean water is a human right is supported by strong moral and humanitarian reasoning. Water is vital not only for drinking, but for cooking, hygiene, and sanitation. Without it, communities are vulnerable to diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, all of which are preventable with access to clean water. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, where millions still lack safe water access, avoidable waterborne illnesses cause more deaths each year than armed conflicts. In this context, expecting individuals to pay for water they cannot afford fosters an unjust system where survival equates to income. Governments, therefore, have a duty to ensure that no citizens are denied this basic resource, especially in less affluent or rural areas.
In conclusion, I strongly agree that every individual deserves access to clean water as a basic human right, despite the practical challenges posed. A fair solution would safeguard free access to water for the general public regardless of the financial ramifications.
Analysis
1. It is often argued that since access to clean water is a fundamental human right, it should be given to every household free of charge. 2. I agree that clean water is essential and should be universally accessible, despite the potential expense of such a proposal.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. One the one hand, providing unlimited free water to every home engenders serious logistical and financial challenges. 2. Water treatment, maintenance of pipelines, and distribution all require funding, skilled labor, and dedicated infrastructure. 3. If water were completely free, there would be little incentive for consumers to use it responsibly, leading to wastage and overconsumption. 4. Consider the example of California during its 2011–2017 drought: despite public campaigns, many affluent neighborhoods continued to overwater their lawns and fill large swimming pools, as water prices were heavily subsidized. 5. This overuse strained reservoirs and forced emergency water restrictions. 6. As a response, nations like Singapore have implemented a tiered pricing system where basic water needs are affordable, but excessive use is charged at higher rates.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
The examples should be very specific.
Better to have more detail.
1. On the other hand, the argument that clean water is a human right is supported by strong moral and humanitarian reasoning. 2. Water is vital not only for drinking, but for cooking, hygiene, and sanitation. 3. Without it, communities are vulnerable to diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, all of which are preventable with access to clean water. 4. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, where millions still lack safe water access, avoidable waterborne illnesses cause more deaths each year than armed conflicts. 5. In this context, expecting individuals to pay for water they cannot afford fosters an unjust system where survival equates to income. 6. Governments, therefore, have a duty to ensure that no citizens are denied this basic resource, especially in less affluent or rural areas.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
Keep adding more detail.
This essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
1. In conclusion, I strongly agree that every individual deserves access to clean water as a basic human right, despite the practical challenges posed. 2. A fair solution would safeguard free access to water for the general public regardless of the financial ramifications.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
It is often argued that since access to clean water is a fundamental human right, it should be given to every household free of charge. I agree that clean water is essential and should be universally accessible, despite the potential expense of such a proposal.
One the one hand, providing unlimited free water to every home engenders serious logistical and financial challenges. Water treatment, maintenance of pipelines, and distribution all require funding, skilled labor, and dedicated infrastructure. If water were completely free, there would be little incentive for consumers to use it responsibly, leading to wastage and overconsumption. Consider the example of California during its 2011–2017 drought: despite public campaigns, many affluent neighborhoods continued to overwater their lawns and fill large swimming pools, as water prices were heavily subsidized. This overuse strained reservoirs and forced emergency water restrictions. As a response, nations like Singapore have implemented a tiered pricing system where basic water needs are affordable, but excessive use is charged at higher rates.
On the other hand, the argument that clean water is a human right is supported by strong moral and humanitarian reasoning. Water is vital not only for drinking, but for cooking, hygiene, and sanitation. Without it, communities are vulnerable to diseases such as cholera, dysentery, and typhoid, all of which are preventable with access to clean water. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, where millions still lack safe water access, avoidable waterborne illnesses cause more deaths each year than armed conflicts. In this context, expecting individuals to pay for water they cannot afford fosters an unjust system where survival equates to income. Governments, therefore, have a duty to ensure that no citizens are denied this basic resource, especially in less affluent or rural areas.
In conclusion, I strongly agree that every individual deserves access to clean water as a basic human right, despite the practical challenges posed. A fair solution would safeguard free access to water for the general public regardless of the financial ramifications.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
It is often argued that → Many people believe that
access to clean water → the ability to obtain safe drinking water
a fundamental human right → a basic right every person should have
given to every household free of charge → provided to all homes at no cost
universally accessible → available to everyone everywhere
despite the potential expense of such a proposal → even though it could be very costly
On the one hand → From one perspective
engenders serious logistical and financial challenges → creates major planning and cost problems
Water treatment → cleaning and purifying water
maintenance of pipelines → keeping water pipes in good condition
distribution → delivery to users
funding → financial support
skilled labor → trained workers
dedicated infrastructure → special systems and facilities
there would be little incentive for → people would have few reasons to
responsibly → in a careful and thoughtful way
wastage and overconsumption → using too much and not conserving
Consider the example of → Take, for instance,
Drought → a long period without enough rain
public campaigns → government awareness efforts
affluent neighborhoods continued to overwater their lawns → wealthy areas kept using too much water on their gardens
fill large swimming pools → use water for big private pools
heavily subsidized → mostly paid for by the government
This overuse strained reservoirs → this extra use put pressure on water supplies
forced emergency water restrictions → led to strict limits on water use
implemented → put into action
tiered pricing system → a pay scale with different levels
Affordable → reasonably priced
excessive use is charged at higher rates → high usage costs more
On the other hand → From another point of view
argument → viewpoint
supported by strong moral and humanitarian reasoning → backed by ethical and compassionate thinking
vital → extremely important
hygiene → staying clean
sanitation → safe systems for waste and cleanliness
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
I__________________t since a________________r is a______________________t, it should be g_____________________e. I agree that clean water is essential and should be u_______________________e, d____________________________l.
O_____________d, providing unlimited free water to every home e___________________________________________s. W_____________t, m____________________s, and d__________n all require f_______g, s_________r, and d_________________e. If water were completely free, t____________________________________r consumers to use it r___________y, leading to w_____________________________n. C__________________of California during its 2011–2017 d_______t: despite p_____________s, many a_____________________________________________s and f_________________s, as water prices were h______________d. T_________________________s and f_____________________s. As a response, nations like Singapore have i__________d a t___________m where basic water needs are a_________e, but e______________s.
O_____________d, the a________t that clean water is a human right is s_____________________________________________________g. Water is v_____l not only for drinking, but for cooking, h_______e, and s_________n. W_______t, communities are v____________________s such as c________a, d_________y, and t________d, all of which are p___________e with access to clean water. For example, in sub-Saharan Africa, where millions still l________________________s, a_______________________s cause more deaths each year than a______________s. I________________t, expecting individuals to pay for water they cannot afford f______________________________________________________e. Governments, therefore, h__________________e that no citizens are d______________________________e, especially in l_____________t or rural areas.
In conclusion, I strongly agree that every individual deserves access to clean water as a basic human right, d_______________________________d. A___________________d free access to water for t_____________________________________________s.
Simplified Version
Some people believe that clean water is a basic human right. Because of this, they think every home should get water for free. I agree that everyone should have access to clean water, even if it is expensive for the government.
On one hand, giving free water to every home is not easy. It costs money to clean water, fix pipes, and deliver water to people’s homes. If water is free, people might waste it. They might use too much and not be careful. For example, during a drought in California from 2011 to 2017, many rich areas used a lot of water for their gardens and swimming pools. This happened even though there was not enough water. The government had to make new rules to stop this. Some countries, like Singapore, have a better system. They make basic water use cheap, but if people use too much, they have to pay more.
On the other hand, clean water is very important. People need it to drink, cook, and stay clean. Without clean water, people can get sick from diseases like cholera or typhoid. In some poor parts of Africa, many people still do not have clean water. Every year, many die from diseases that clean water could prevent. If people must pay for water and they don’t have money, they may suffer. This is not fair. Governments should help poor families and rural areas get the water they need.
In conclusion, I believe that clean water is a basic human right. Everyone should be able to use it, even if it costs the government a lot. A good system would give water for free to everyone who needs it.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching from YouTube below and practice with these activities:
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