IELTS Essay: Crime in the City Center Line Chart

IELTS Essay: Crime in the City Center Line Chart

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of crime in the city center from the real IELTS exam.

Find my full IELTS Ebooks here.

Dave

IELTS Essay: Crime in the City Center Line Chart

The line chart displays data concerning robberies, car thefts, and burglaries from 2003 to 2012 in New Port city center. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that burglaries declined dramatically and were replaced as the most common crime by car thefts, which fell slightly overall. Robberies were least common throughout yet also rose marginally.

In 2003, burglaries were prevalent at a rate of nearly 3,500 per year. This number then peaked at 3,750 the next year before dropping considerably to a nadir of 1,100 in 2008 and remaining generally around this level until the end of the period. In contrast, car thefts began the period lower (2,800), dipped to 2000 in 2006 and rose with minor fluctuations to 2,750 by 2012.

The least common crime was robbery. Statistics indicated just over 500 robberies in 2003 and incidences remained under 1000 the entire time surveyed, finishing at 750 in 2012.

Analysis

1. The line chart displays data concerning robberies, car thefts, and burglaries from 2003 to 2012 in New Port city center. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that burglaries declined dramatically and were replaced as the most common crime by car thefts, which fell slightly overall. 3. Robberies were least common throughout yet also rose marginally.

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

1. In 2003, burglaries were prevalent at a rate of nearly 3,500 per year. 2. This number then peaked at 3,750 the next year before dropping considerably to a nadir of 1,100 in 2008 and remaining generally around this level until the end of the period. 3. In contrast, car thefts began the period lower (2,800), dipped to 2000 in 2006 and rose with minor fluctuations to 2,750 by 2012.

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

1. The least common crime was robbery. 2. Statistics indicated just over 500 robberies in 2003 and incidences remained under 1000 the entire time surveyed, finishing at 750 in 2012.

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

Vocabulary

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

The line chart displays data concerning robberies, car thefts, and burglaries from 2003 to 2012 in New Port city center. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that burglaries declined dramatically and were replaced as the most common crime by car thefts, which fell slightly overall. Robberies were least common throughout yet also rose marginally.

In 2003, burglaries were prevalent at a rate of nearly 3,500 per year. This number then peaked at 3,750 the next year before dropping considerably to a nadir of 1,100 in 2008 and remaining generally around this level until the end of the period. In contrast, car thefts began the period lower (2,800), dipped to 2000 in 2006 and rose with minor fluctuations to 2,750 by 2012.

The least common crime was robbery. Statistics indicated just over 500 robberies in 2003 and incidences remained under 1000 the entire time surveyed, finishing at 750 in 2012.

Answers

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

displays shows

data numbers

concerning relating to

robberies taking money from a store

car thefts stealing a car

burglaries taking from a person

city center inner city

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

declined dramatically fell a lot

replaced took the place of

most common crime most prevalent offense

car thefts stealing cars

fell slightly overall went down a little by the end

least common throughout didn’t happen as much the whole time

yet so far

rose marginally increased a little

prevalent at a rate of nearly common to the level of

per each

peaked rose to the top at

dropping considerably fell a lot

nadir low point

remaining generally around this level staying at about the same point

until the end of the period until 2012

In contrast however

began started

period lower time less than

dipped fell to

rose with minor fluctuations to increased with erratic changes

indicated showed

incidences remained under offenses stayed less than

entire time surveyed whole time detailed

finishing at ending at

Pronunciation

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

dɪsˈpleɪz 
ˈdeɪtə 
kənˈsɜːnɪŋ 
ˈrɒbəriz
kɑː θɛfts
ˈbɜːgləriz 
ˈsɪti ˈsɛntə
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
dɪˈklaɪnd drəˈmætɪk(ə)li 
rɪˈpleɪst 
məʊst ˈkɒmən kraɪm 
kɑː θɛfts
fɛl ˈslaɪtli ˈəʊvərɔːl
liːst ˈkɒmən θru(ː)ˈaʊt 
jɛt 
rəʊz ˈmɑːʤɪnəli
ˈprɛvələnt æt ə reɪt ɒv ˈnɪəli 
pɜː 
piːkt 
ˈdrɒpɪŋ kənˈsɪdərəbli 
ˈneɪdɪə 
rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ ˈʤɛnərəli əˈraʊnd ðɪs ˈlɛvl 
ənˈtɪl ði ɛnd ɒv ðə ˈpɪərɪəd
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst
bɪˈgæn 
ˈpɪərɪəd ˈləʊə 
dɪpt 
rəʊz wɪð ˈmaɪnə ˌflʌktjʊˈeɪʃənz tuː 
ˈɪndɪkeɪtɪd 
ˈɪnsɪdənsɪz rɪˈmeɪnd ˈʌndə 
ɪnˈtaɪə taɪm sɜːˈveɪd
ˈfɪnɪʃɪŋ æt 

Vocabulary Practice

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

The line chart d_________s d____a c__________g r_________s, c__________s, and b__________s from 2003 to 2012 in New Port c____________r. L___________________________________________________________________t burglaries d__________________y and were r___________d as the m______________e by c___________s, which f_____________________l. Robberies were l___________________________t also r________________y.

In 2003, burglaries were p___________________y 3,500 p___r year. This number then p_____d at 3,750 the next year before d___________________y to a n______r of 1,100 in 2008 and r_______________________________________________________d. I______________t, car thefts b_______n the p_______________r (2,800), d___________d to 2000 in 2006 and r_______________________________o 2,750 by 2012.

The least common crime was robbery. Statistics i_____________d just over 500 robberies in 2003 and i___________________________r 1000 the e___________________d, f___________t 750 in 2012.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

Read more and use these ideas to practice:

https://www.wired.com/story/crime-rates-dropped-in-2020-just-as-they-did-in-1918/

Speaking Practice

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

IELTS 16 Essay: Ownership of Electrical Appliances Line Chart
IELTS Essay: The Present Moment

IELTS Essay: The Present Moment

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of the present moment from the real IELTS recent exam.

Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my full, exclusive IELTS Ebooks!

Dave

IELTS Essay: The Present Moment

Some people think that enjoying the present is more important than planning for the future for both countries and individuals.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many feel that being fully present in the moment is more valuable than thinking of the future in terms of both nations and their residents. In my opinion, this claim is untrue and shortsighted.

Firstly, countries must look to the future to ensure the safe flourishing of all citizens. A country that simply looks to maximize current moments might make unwise decisions that could quickly have catastrophic repercussions. A well-known example of this would be the actions not taken by the United States government in the build-up to The Great Recession of 2007 – 2009. Authorities and governing bodies ignored the over-leveraging of assets and the potential for foreclosures on real estate properties. When the worst scenario occurred, the result was that millions lost their homes and the entire world plunged into a period of stagnation. This same principle applies generally beyond economics and includes the military, medicine, social welfare, and so on.

Secondly, the average person can best attain quality living standards through careful preparation. Admittedly, this can lead to anxiety and a feeling of dissociation with reality. These potential byproducts nonetheless pale in comparison to the risk of not providing for one’s future. For instance, a person who does not study hard in school or apply themselves fully to their career is likely to always face financial pressure. This pressure will itself engender anxiety. In extreme situations, such a person may fail to integrate productively with society. In contrast, someone who thinks about the future, invests wisely, and makes logical decisions is more likely to achieve a sense of happiness and fulfillment.

In conclusion, looking to the future guarantees a higher standard of living and the preservation of various national benefits. Countries in particular must always prioritize consideration of future threats.

Analysis

1. Many feel that being fully present in the moment is more valuable than thinking of the future in terms of both nations and their residents. 2. In my opinion, this claim is untrue and shortsighted.

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

1. Firstly, countries must look to the future to ensure the safe flourishing of all citizens. 2. A country that simply looks to maximize current moments might make unwise decisions that could quickly have catastrophic repercussions. 3. A well-known example of this would be the actions not taken by the United States government in the build-up to The Great Recession of 2007 – 2009. 4. Authorities and governing bodies ignored the over-leveraging of assets and the potential for foreclosures on real estate properties. 5. When the worst scenario occurred, the result was that millions lost their homes and the entire world plunged into a period of stagnation. 6. This same principle applies generally beyond economics and includes the military, medicine, social welfare, and so on.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Vary long and short sentences.
  6. Make sure you generalize if your example is too specific.

1. Secondly, the average person can best attain quality living standards through careful preparation. 2. Admittedly, this can lead to anxiety and a feeling of dissociation with reality. 3. These potential byproducts nonetheless pale in comparison to the risk of not providing for one’s future. 4. For instance, a person who does not study hard in school or apply themselves fully to their career is likely to always face financial pressure. 5. This pressure will itself engender anxiety. 6. In extreme situations, such a person may fail to integrate productively with society. 7. In contrast, someone who thinks about the future, invests wisely, and makes logical decisions is more likely to achieve a sense of happiness and fulfillment.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Add as much information as you can and make sure it links logically.
  5. Develop the example fully.
  6. State the results as well.
  7. Conclude strong.

1. In conclusion, looking to the future guarantees a higher standard of living and the preservation of various national benefits. 2. Countries in particular must always prioritize consideration of future threats.

  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 feel that being fully present in the moment is more valuable than thinking of the future in terms of both nations and their residents. In my opinion, this claim is untrue and shortsighted.

Firstly, countries must look to the future to ensure the safe flourishing of all citizens. A country that simply looks to maximize current moments might make unwise decisions that could quickly have catastrophic repercussions. A well-known example of this would be the actions not taken by the United States government in the build-up to The Great Recession of 2007 – 2009. Authorities and governing bodies ignored the over-leveraging of assets and the potential for foreclosures on real estate properties. When the worst scenario occurred, the result was that millions lost their homes and the entire world plunged into a period of stagnation. This same principle applies generally beyond economics and includes the military, medicine, social welfare, and so on.

Secondly, the average person can best attain quality living standards through careful preparation. Admittedly, this can lead to anxiety and a feeling of dissociation with reality. These potential byproducts nonetheless pale in comparison to the risk of not providing for one’s future. For instance, a person who does not study hard in school or apply themselves fully to their career is likely to always face financial pressure. This pressure will itself engender anxiety. In extreme situations, such a person may fail to integrate productively with society. In contrast, someone who thinks about the future, invests wisely, and makes logical decisions is more likely to achieve a sense of happiness and fulfillment.

In conclusion, looking to the future guarantees a higher standard of living and the preservation of various national benefits. Countries in particular must always prioritize consideration of future threats.

Answers

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

fully present in the moment not thinking about the future

valuable has importance

in terms of concerning

nations countries

residents citizens

claim argue

untrue not true

shortsighted not looking to the future

look to the future thinking of later

ensure make sure of

safe flourishing no danger and getting better

citizens people of a country

simply merely

maximize current moments make the most of right now

make unwise decisions made bad choices

quickly fast

catastrophic repercussions really bad results

A well-known example of this would be a famous instance is

actions steps

build-up period before

The Great Recession of 2007 – 2009 financial crisis of 2008

authorities people in charge

governing bodies ignored people in charge didn’t pay attention to

over-leveraging investing too much

assets money, capital, property, etc.

potential possible

foreclosures homes being lost

real estate properties homes

worst scenario occurred bad thing happened

lost their homes houses foreclosed on

entire world whole Earth

plunged into feel deep into

a period of stagnation time of no growth

principle rule

beyond economics not just the money made in a country

includes applies for

military armies

medicine hospitals

social welfare taking care of people

and so on etc.

average person normal resident

best attain quality living standards live their best lives

through careful preparation thinking ahead

admittedly it is true that

anxiety nervousness

dissociation not connecting to

reality the real world

potential products possible items

nonetheless regardless

pale in comparison not as important as

risk threat

providing for supporting

apply themselves fully to their career work hard

face financial pressure have money trobles

engender anxiety make them feel nervous

In extreme situations in some cases

fail to integrate productively don’t join in a good way

In contrast however

invests wisely put money in stocks, property

makes logical decisions choose well

achieve a sense of happiness and fulfillment feel good about their lives

guarantees makes sure of

higher standard of living quality of life

preservation keeping alive

various national benefits good things for the country

in particular especially

prioritize consideration make more important caring about

threats risks

Pronunciation

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

ˈfʊli ˈprɛznt ɪn ðə ˈməʊmənt
ˈvæljʊəbl
ɪn tɜːmz ɒv
ˈneɪʃənz
ˈrɛzɪdənts
kleɪm
ʌnˈtruː
ˌʃɔːtˈsaɪtɪd
lʊk tuː ðə ˈfjuːʧə
ɪnˈʃʊə
seɪf ˈflʌrɪʃɪŋ
ˈsɪtɪznz
ˈsɪmpli
ˈmæksɪmaɪz ˈkʌrənt ˈməʊmənts
meɪk ʌnˈwaɪz dɪˈsɪʒənz
ˈkwɪkli
ˌkætəˈstrɒfɪk ˌriːpɜːˈkʌʃənz
ə wɛl-nəʊn ɪgˈzɑːmpl ɒv ðɪs wʊd biː
ˈækʃ(ə)nz
ˈbɪldʌp
ðə greɪt rɪˈsɛʃən ɒv
ɔːˈθɒrɪtiz
ˈgʌvənɪŋ ˈbɒdiz ɪgˈnɔːd
ˈəʊvə-ˈliːvərɪʤɪŋ
ˈæsɛts
pəʊˈtɛnʃəl
fɔːˈkləʊʒəz
rɪəl ɪsˈteɪt ˈprɒpətiz
wɜːst sɪˈnɑːrɪəʊ əˈkɜːd
lɒst ðeə həʊmz
ɪnˈtaɪə wɜːld
plʌnʤd ˈɪntuː
ə ˈpɪərɪəd ɒv stægˈneɪʃən
ˈprɪnsəpl
bɪˈjɒnd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪks
ɪnˈkluːdz
ˈmɪlɪtəri
ˈmɛdsɪn
ˈsəʊʃəl ˈwɛlfeə
ænd səʊ ɒn
ˈævərɪʤ ˈpɜːsn
bɛst əˈteɪn ˈkwɒlɪti ˈlɪvɪŋ ˈstændədz
θruː ˈkeəfʊl ˌprɛpəˈreɪʃən
ədˈmɪtɪdli
æŋˈzaɪəti
dɪˌsəʊsɪˈeɪʃən
ri(ː)ˈælɪti
pəʊˈtɛnʃəl ˈprɒdʌkts
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
peɪl ɪn kəmˈpærɪsn
rɪsk
prəˈvaɪdɪŋ fɔː
əˈplaɪ ðəmˈsɛlvz ˈfʊli tuː ðeə kəˈrɪə
feɪs faɪˈnænʃəl ˈprɛʃə
ɪnˈʤɛndər æŋˈzaɪəti
ɪn ɪksˈtriːm ˌsɪtjʊˈeɪʃənz
feɪl tuː ˈɪntɪgreɪt prəˈdʌktɪvli
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst
ɪnˈvɛsts ˈwaɪzli
meɪks ˈlɒʤɪkəl dɪˈsɪʒənz
əˈʧiːv ə sɛns ɒv ˈhæpɪnɪs ænd fʊlˈfɪlmənt
ˌgærənˈtiːz
ˈhaɪə ˈstændəd ɒv ˈlɪvɪŋ
ˌprɛzə(ː)ˈveɪʃən
ˈveərɪəs ˈnæʃənl ˈbɛnɪfɪts
ɪn pəˈtɪkjʊlə
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz kənˌsɪdəˈreɪʃən
θrɛts

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 feel that being f_________________________t is more v____________e than thinking of the future i______________f both n___________s and their r__________s. In my opinion, this c_____m is u_______e and s____________d.

Firstly, countries must l________________e to e_______e the s_____________g of all c_________s. A country that s_______y looks to m__________________s might m_________________________s that could q_______y have c________________________s. A_________________________________e the a________s not taken by the United States government in the b________p to T___________________________________9. A____________s and g_________________________d the o__________________g of a_________s and the p_________l for f_____________s on r______________________s. When the w____________________d, the result was that millions l___________________s and the e____________________________________________n. This same p__________e applies generally b_______________s and i__________s the m_______y, m________e, s_____________e, a____________n.

Secondly, the a_______________n can b___________n q_________________________s t______________________n. A____________y, this can lead to a__________y and a feeling of d______________n with r________y. These p____________________s n___________s p____________________n to the r____k of not p______________r one’s future. For instance, a person who does not study hard in school or a____________________________r is likely to always f____________________________e. This pressure will itself e________________y. I____________________s, such a person may f___________________________y with society. I______________t, someone who thinks about the future, i______________y, and m_______________________s is more likely to a_________________________________________t.

In conclusion, looking to the future g____________s a h______________________g and the p___________n of v__________________________s. Countries i________________r must always p_______________________n of future t_________s.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

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

https://www.gaiam.com/blogs/discover/6-ways-to-live-in-the-moment

Speaking Practice

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

Talk about a goal that you want to achieve in the future. Include:

What the goal is

When you thought of it

How you will accomplish it

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

Some feel that it is a waste of time to plan for the future and it is more important to focus on the present.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay: Change

IELTS Essay: Change

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of change from the real IELTS recent exam.

Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my full, exclusive IELTS Ebooks!

Dave

IELTS Essay: Change

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

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Many people feel that change should be embraced without qualification while others believe it is better to avoid new situations. In my opinion, though change can be positive in certain contexts, it should not be pursued as valuable in itself.

Those in favor of change argue it is nearly always positive. Examples of good changes might include moving to a new city, starting a new job, finding a new life companion, or even something as simple as getting a pet. Each of these decisions is a means of addressing a desire or feeling of dissatisfaction. One change that has become prevalent in recent decades relates to nutrition and exercise. Such lifestyle changes are based on research that has definitively shown the importance of a healthy diet and identified foods low in certain kinds of fats and carbohydrates. Combined with weekly exercise, the results are superior fitness and improved longevity.

However, change is, more often than not, a means of disregarding one’s responsibilities. Many individuals change jobs or leave relationships simply because they feel they have lost their passion. This effort to re-energize is typically unsuccessful because outward changes do little to alleviate internal problems. Therefore, in the majority of cases, change is either an excuse to justify selfish behavior or a temporary and superficial solution. The best-known example of this would be the classic ‘mid-life crisis’ that particularly affects men as they age and decide their life is not fulfilling their most basic desires. Ultimately, most people would be better served by focusing on improving their current situation rather than seeking transitory and exaggerated new experiences.

In conclusion, change should not be sought as a means of escaping one’s primary duties. Change should be an organic process and it is therefore advisable individuals do not pursue it as a goal generally.

Analysis

1. Many people feel that change should be embraced without qualification while others believe it is better to avoid new situations. 2. In my opinion, though change can be positive in certain contexts, it should not be pursued as valuable in itself.

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

1. Those in favor of change argue it is nearly always positive. 2. Examples of good changes might include moving to a new city, starting a new job, finding a new life companion, or even something as simple as getting a pet. 3. Each of these decisions is a means of addressing a desire or feeling of dissatisfaction. 4. One change that has become prevalent in recent decades relates to nutrition and exercise. 5. Such lifestyle changes are based on research that has definitively shown the importance of a healthy diet and identified foods low in certain kinds of fats and carbohydrates. 6. Combined with weekly exercise, the results are superior fitness and improved longevity.

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

1. However, change is, more often than not, a means of disregarding one’s responsibilities. 2. Many individuals change jobs or leave relationships simply because they feel they have lost their passion. 3. This effort to re-energize is typically unsuccessful because outward changes do little to alleviate internal problems. 4. Therefore, in the majority of cases, change is either an excuse to justify selfish behavior or a temporary and superficial solution. 5. The best-known example of this would be the classic ‘mid-life crisis’ that particularly affects men as they age and decide their life is not fulfilling their most basic desires. 6. Ultimately, most people would be better served by focusing on improving their current situation rather than seeking transitory and exaggerated new experiences.

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

1. In conclusion, change should not be sought as a means of escaping one’s primary duties. 2. Change should be an organic process and it is therefore advisable individuals do not pursue it as a goal generally.

  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 people feel that change should be embraced without qualification while others believe it is better to avoid new situations. In my opinion, though change can be positive in certain contexts, it should not be pursued as valuable in itself.

Those in favor of change argue it is nearly always positive. Examples of good changes might include moving to a new city, starting a new job, finding a new life companion, or even something as simple as getting a pet. Each of these decisions is a means of addressing a desire or feeling of dissatisfaction. One change that has become prevalent in recent decades relates to nutrition and exercise. Such lifestyle changes are based on research that has definitively shown the importance of a healthy diet and identified foods low in certain kinds of fats and carbohydrates. Combined with weekly exercise, the results are superior fitness and improved longevity.

However, change is, more often than not, a means of disregarding one’s responsibilities. Many individuals change jobs or leave relationships simply because they feel they have lost their passion. This effort to re-energize is typically unsuccessful because outward changes do little to alleviate internal problems. Therefore, in the majority of cases, change is either an excuse to justify selfish behavior or a temporary and superficial solution. The best-known example of this would be the classic ‘mid-life crisis’ that particularly affects men as they age and decide their life is not fulfilling their most basic desires. Ultimately, most people would be better served by focusing on improving their current situation rather than seeking transitory and exaggerated new experiences.

In conclusion, change should not be sought as a means of escaping one’s primary duties. Change should be an organic process and it is therefore advisable individuals do not pursue it as a goal generally.

Answers

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

change embraced without qualification new experiences and differences accepted without challenging their value

avoid not do

situations contexts

positive good

contexts situations

pursued sought

valuable in itself good on its own

those in favor of supporters

argue say

nearly always usually

life companion husband/wife

even something as simple as even for a minor area like

decisions choices

means ways

addressing fixing

desire need

dissatisfaction unhappy with

prevalent common

recent decades last 20 or so years

relates to concerns

nutrition diet

exercise working out

lifestyle how you live your life

based on research studies show

definitively shown 100% indicate

healthy diet eating good foods

identified recognized

certain kinds of particular types of

fats foods high in fat

carbohydrates breads, pasta, rice, etc.

Combined with in conjunction with

results what comes out of it

superior fitness in better shape

improved longevity living longer

more often than not usually

a means of a way of

disregarding ignoring

lost their passion not caring about anymore

effort try

re-energize get energy back 

unsuccessful doesn’t work

outward changes superficial differences

alleviate internal problems fix mental issues

in the majority of cases usually

excuse justification

justify selfish behavior make you feel good about acting badly 

temporary not permanent

superficial solution bad fix

best-known most well-known

classic ‘mid-life crisis’ well-known instance of wanting change in your 40s

particularly affects especially impacts

fulfilling satisfying

most basic desires fundamental wants

ultimately in the end

better served best met

focusing on caring more about

current situation how things are now

rather than instead of

seeking transitory looking for temporary

exaggerated out of control

sought looked for

escaping getting away from

primary duties main responsibilities

organic process natural way

advisable should happen

generally for all people

Pronunciation

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

ʧeɪnʤ ɪmˈbreɪst wɪˈðaʊt ˌkwɒlɪfɪˈkeɪʃən 
əˈvɔɪd 
ˌsɪtjʊˈeɪʃənz
ˈpɒzətɪv 
ˈkɒntɛksts
pəˈsjuːd 
ˈvæljʊəbl ɪn ɪtˈsɛlf
ðəʊz ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv 
ˈɑːgjuː 
ˈnɪəli ˈɔːlweɪz
laɪf kəmˈpænjən
ˈiːvən ˈsʌmθɪŋ æz ˈsɪmpl æz 
dɪˈsɪʒənz 
miːnz 
əˈdrɛsɪŋ 
dɪˈzaɪə 
dɪsˌsætɪsˈfækʃən
ˈprɛvələnt 
ˈriːsnt ˈdɛkeɪdz 
rɪˈleɪts tuː 
nju(ː)ˈtrɪʃən 
ˈɛksəsaɪz
ˈlaɪfˌstaɪl 
beɪst ɒn rɪˈsɜːʧ 
dɪˈfɪnɪtɪvli ʃəʊn 
ˈhɛlθi ˈdaɪət 
aɪˈdɛntɪfaɪd 
ˈsɜːtn kaɪndz ɒv 
fæts 
ˈkɑːbəʊˈhaɪdreɪts
kəmˈbaɪnd wɪð 
rɪˈzʌlts 
sju(ː)ˈpɪərɪə ˈfɪtnɪs 
ɪmˈpruːvd lɒnˈʤɛvɪti
mɔːr ˈɒf(ə)n ðæn nɒt
ə miːnz ɒv 
ˌdɪsrɪˈgɑːdɪŋ 
lɒst ðeə ˈpæʃən
ˈɛfət 
riː-ˈɛnəʤaɪz 
ˌʌnsəkˈsɛsfʊl 
ˈaʊtwəd ˈʧeɪnʤɪz 
əˈliːvɪeɪt ɪnˈtɜːnl ˈprɒbləmz
ɪn ðə məˈʤɒrɪti ɒv ˈkeɪsɪz
ɪksˈkjuːs 
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪ ˈsɛlfɪʃ bɪˈheɪvjə 
ˈtɛmpərəri 
ˌsjuːpəˈfɪʃəl səˈluːʃən
bɛst-nəʊn 
ˈklæsɪk mɪd-laɪf ˈkraɪsɪs 
pəˈtɪkjʊləli əˈfɛkts
fʊlˈfɪlɪŋ 
məʊst ˈbeɪsɪk dɪˈzaɪəz
ˈʌltɪmɪtli
ˈbɛtə sɜːvd 
ˈfəʊkəsɪŋ ɒn 
ˈkʌrənt ˌsɪtjʊˈeɪʃən 
ˈrɑːðə ðæn 
ˈsiːkɪŋ ˈtrænsɪtəri 
ɪgˈzæʤəreɪtɪd 
sɔːt 
ɪsˈkeɪpɪŋ 
ˈpraɪməri ˈdjuːtiz
ɔːˈgænɪk ˈprəʊsɛs 
ədˈvaɪzəbl 
ˈʤɛnərəli

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 people feel that c_______e should be e___________________________n while others believe it is better to a______d new s___________s. In my opinion, though change can be p_________e in certain c________s, it should not be p________d as v__________________f.

T_________________f change a_____e it is n__________s positive. Examples of good changes might include moving to a new city, starting a new job, finding a new l______________n, or e______________________s getting a pet. Each of these d_________s is a m_____s of a_____________g a d______e or feeling of d_______________n. One change that has become p_______t in r_____________s r____________o n__________n and e______e. Such l______e changes are b______________h that has d_______________n the importance of a h_____________t and i_________d foods low in c____________________s and c____________s. C______________h weekly exercise, the r________s are s___________s and i_________________y.

However, change is, m_____________________t, a_________________________g one’s responsibilities. Many individuals change jobs or leave relationships simply because they feel they have l_____________n. This e_____t to r____________e is typically u_____________l because o_______________s do little to a______________________s. Therefore, i_________________________s, change is either an e______e to j_______________________r or a t_____________y and s__________________n. The b____________n example of this would be the c_______________________s’ that p__________________s men as they age and decide their life is not f____________g their m___________________s. U___________y, most people would be b_______________d by f____________n improving their c____________n r_______________n s__________________y and e____________d new experiences.

In conclusion, change should not be s________t as a means of e_________g one’s p___________s. Change should be an o_____________s and it is therefore a__________e individuals do not pursue it as a goal g_________y.

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

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

https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/blog/toxic-relationships/202104/how-change-your-attachment-style-and-your-relationships

Speaking Practice

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

Talk about a goal that you want to achieve in the future. Include:

What the goal is

When you thought of it

How you will accomplish it

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

The job market today is very competitive and it is best to choose a career or field of study early in order to get a good job later in life.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Ebook: Holidays

IELTS Ebook: Holidays

My sample answer for this essay is available as a full Ebook here on Patreon.com/howtdoIELTS!

Some people think it is better for to have many short holidays during the year. Others believe it would be beneficial to have fewer, longer vacations.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sign up for that Ebook as well as lots of other ones and the opportunity to chat with me personally!

Dave

IELTS Letter: Staying at a Hotel

IELTS Letter: Staying at a Hotel

This is an IELTS writing task 1 letter from the real general training exam on the topic of writing a letter of complaint to a hotel.

Please consider supporting my efforts to creative high quality IELTS materials for students around the world by signing up for my Patreon (and don’t miss any of my exclusive IELTS Ebooks)!

Dave

IELTS Essay: Letter to a Hotel

You have a complaint about the hotel you stayed at while attending a meeting that was booked by the organiser of a company meeting. Write a letter to the organiser of the meeting and include

  • Details about the meeting
  • The problem you face
  • What should be done

Dear Optimal Synergy,

I am writing from the Botanica company about the event that you recently managed for us. It was at the Continental Hotel in downtown Saigon and was held the weekend before last (the weekend of the 23rd) on the 4th floor reception area.

There were some issues during the meeting that you could have foreseen in my opinion. Firstly, the catering was late and there were few dishes that appealed to attendees. We are a local company but the majority of the food was western. Additionally, during the meeting we tried to reach your company in order to arrange for an extra hour but could not contact you. This was extremely unprofessional.

From my point of view, you should address these problems immediately by ensuring that you have catered according to the tastes of the company you are representing. There should also be a back-up number to deal with any issues that come up during the event. I hope that you will be able to make some form of restitution to us for these inconveniences.

Please reply promptly.

Best Regards,

Linh

Analysis

1. Dear Optimal Synergy,

2. I am writing from the Botanica company about the event that you recently managed for us. 3. It was at the Continental Hotel in downtown Saigon and was held the weekend before last (the weekend of the 23rd) on the 4th floor reception area.

  1. Address the letter to someone.
  2. You can begin with a greeting.
  3. Include the first bullet point.

1. There were some issues during the meeting that you could have foreseen in my opinion. 2. Firstly, the catering was late and there were few dishes that appealed to attendees. 3. We are a local company but the majority of the food was western. 4. Additionally, during the meeting we tried to reach your company in order to arrange for an extra hour but could not contact you. 5. This was extremely unprofessional.

  1. Begin to develop the second point.
  2. Add more detail to it.
  3. This one is focused on second point so include a lot.
  4. The more you add, the higher your task achievement mark.
  5. Vary long and short sentences.

1. From my point of view, you should address these problems immediately by ensuring that you have catered according to the tastes of the company you are representing. 2. There should also be a back-up number to deal with any issues that come up during the event. 3. I hope that you will be able to make some form of restitution to us for these inconveniences.

4. Please reply promptly.

5. Best Regards,

6. Linh

  1. Develop the last point.
  2. Keep developing it.
  3. Add an ending sentence.
  4. You can add one final sentence like this.
  5. Use a phrase like regards or sincerely.
  6. Write your name at the end of the letter.

Vocabulary

What do the words in bold below mean? Take notes on a piece of paper to aid memory retention.

Dear Optimal Synergy,

I am writing from the Botanica company about the event that you recently managed for us. It was at the Continental Hotel in downtown Saigon and was held the weekend before last (the weekend of the 23rd) on the 4th floor reception area.

There were some issues during the meeting that you could have foreseen in my opinion. Firstly, the catering was late and there were few dishes that appealed to attendees. We are a local company but the majority of the food was western. Additionally, during the meeting we tried to reach your company in order to arrange for an extra hour but could not contact you. This was extremely unprofessional.

From my point of view, you should address these problems immediately by ensuring that you have catered according to the tastes of the company you are representing. There should also be a back-up number to deal with any issues that come up during the event. I hope that you will be able to make some form of restitution to us for these inconveniences.

Please reply promptly.

Best Regards,

Linh

Dear Lisa,

Answers

Practice writing sentences with the words below on a piece of paper:

event big meeting, conference

recently not that long ago

managed dealt with

downtown Saigon central Ho Chi Minh City

held hosted

weekend before last two weekends ago

reception area big meeting area

issues problems

foreseen can be predicted

catering food brought in

few dishes some food

appealed to attendees people there liked

local company firm working here

majority of most of

western from western countries

additionally also

reach get to

in order to so

arrange for plan for

extra additionally

contact call or talk to

extremely unprofessional not well-run

from my point of view in my opinion

address deal with

immediately right now

ensuring making sure

according to relating to

tastes what people like

representing symbolizing

back-up number phone number in case

deal with handle

come up appear

make some form of restitution give us a refund

inconveniences problems

please reply promptly answer right now

Best Regards sincerely

Pronunciation

Practice with this tip using Google voice search to improve your pronunciation:

ɪˈvɛnt
ˈriːsntli
ˈmænɪʤd
ˈdaʊntaʊn saɪgɒn
hɛld
ˈwiːkˈɛnd bɪˈfɔː lɑːst
rɪˈsɛpʃən ˈeərɪə
ˈɪʃuːz
fɔːˈsiːn
ˈkeɪtərɪŋ
fjuː ˈdɪʃɪz
əˈpiːld tuː  ətendi:z
ˈləʊkəl ˈkʌmpəni
məˈʤɒrɪti ɒv
ˈwɛstən
əˈdɪʃənli
riːʧ
ɪn ˈɔːdə tuː
əˈreɪnʤ fɔː
ˈɛkstrə
ˈkɒntækt
ɪksˈtriːmli ˌʌnprəˈfɛʃənl
frɒm maɪ pɔɪnt ɒv vjuː
əˈdrɛs
ɪˈmiːdiətli
ɪnˈʃʊərɪŋ
əˈkɔːdɪŋ tuː
teɪsts
ˌrɛprɪˈzɛntɪŋ
bæk-ʌp ˈnʌmbə
diːl wɪð
kʌm ʌp
meɪk sʌm fɔːm ɒv ˌrɛstɪˈtjuːʃən
ˌɪnkənˈviːniənsɪz
pliːz rɪˈplaɪ ˈprɒmptli
bɛst rɪˈgɑːdz

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

Dear Optimal Synergy,

I am writing from the Botanica company about the e_____t that you r__________________d for us. It was at the Continental Hotel in d__________________n and was h___d the w__________________________t (the weekend of the 23rd) on the 4th floor r__________________a.

There were some i__________s during the meeting that you could have f_______n in my opinion. Firstly, the c________g was late and there were f___________s that a____________________s. We are a l_______________y but the m_____________f the food was w_________n. A______________y, during the meeting we tried to r_______h your company i____________o a____________r an e_____a hour but could not c__________t you. This was e_______________________l.

F____________________________w, you should a__________s these problems i_______________y by e____________g that you have catered a_______________o the t_________s of the company you are r_______________g. There should also be a b________________r to d________h any issues that c________p during the event. I hope that you will be able to m_____________________________n to us for these i________________s.

P___________________y.

B_______________s,

Linh

Listening Practice

Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:

Reading Practice

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

Speaking Practice

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

Meetings

  1. Are meetings common for most businesses in your country?
  2. Are meetings a waste of time?
  3. How could meetings be made more efficient?
  4. How has technology changed the way people hold meetings?
  5. Are there cultural differences in terms of meetings in different parts of your country?

Writing Practice

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

Write a letter to the manager of a cinema (movie theatre) about a jacket you have left behind after a film. In your letter:

  • Describe the jacket
  • Describe where you were seated
  • Explain what you want to be done