IELTS Task 1 Essay: Women in Employment

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Women in Employment

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of women in employment.

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:

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS Task 1 Essay: Women in Employment

The line chart details the percentages for females working in various countries around the world from ages of 15 to 64. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that employment rose in all nations except for Iceland, where there was a marginal decline, and Turkey, where the percentage was stable overall. The three more developed nations also generally registered higher employment percentages compared to Chile and Turkey.

In 2003, there were approximately 10% differences in the figures for female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, respectively. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were generally stable before Canadian employment began to diverge upwards to finish at 65% in 2009 and Iceland experienced the inverse trend dropping to end at 78%. Canada was more stable and concluded the period at precisely 70%.

In contrast, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment ratios were lower throughout with the former beginning at 35% and plateauing just above 40% for the remainder of the surveyed timeframe. The latter, in comparison, fell from 25% in 2003 to near 20% in the middle years of the period, before a full recovery in the final year.

Analysis

1. The line chart details the percentages for females working in various countries around the world from ages of 15 to 64. 2. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that employment rose in all nations except for Iceland, where there was a marginal decline, and Turkey, where the percentage was stable overall. 3. The three more developed nations also generally registered higher employment percentages compared to Chile and Turkey.

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

1. In 2003, there were approximately 10% differences in the figures for female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, respectively. 2. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were generally stable before Canadian employment began to diverge upwards to finish at 65% in 2009 and Iceland experienced the inverse trend dropping to end at 78%. 3. Canada was more stable and concluded the period at precisely 70%.

  1. Begin writing about the data for the first categories.
  2. Compare between each sentence.
  3. Vary short and long sentences.

1. In contrast, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment ratios were lower throughout with the former beginning at 35% and plateauing just above 40% for the remainder of the surveyed timeframe. 2. The latter, in comparison, fell from 25% in 2003 to near 20% in the middle years of the period, before a full recovery in the final year.

  1. Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
  2. The paragraphs should be about equal length.

Vocabulary

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

The line chart details the percentages for females working in various countries around the world from ages of 15 to 64. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that employment rose in all nations except for Iceland, where there was a marginal decline, and Turkey, where the percentage was stable overall. The three more developed nations also generally registered higher employment percentages compared to Chile and Turkey.

In 2003, there were approximately 10% differences in the figures for female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, respectively. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were generally stable before Canadian employment began to diverge upwards to finish at 65% in 2009 and Iceland experienced the inverse trend dropping to end at 78%. Canada was more stable and concluded the period at precisely 70%.

In contrast, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment ratios were lower throughout with the former beginning at 35% and plateauing just above 40% for the remainder of the surveyed timeframe. The latter, in comparison, fell from 25% in 2003 to near 20% in the middle years of the period, before a full recovery in the final year.

Answers

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

Here are synonymous phrases for each line:

  1. Details the percentages for various countries around the world from
    • Provides the distribution of percentages across different nations globally from
  2. Looking from a general perspective, it is readily apparent that
    • From a broader viewpoint, it is clear that
  3. Rose in all nations except for
    • Increased in every country except for
  4. A marginal decline
    • A slight decrease
  5. The percentage was stable overall
    • The proportion remained consistent overall
  6. More developed nations
    • Economically advanced countries
  7. Generally registered higher employment percentages compared to
    • Typically showed greater employment rates in comparison to
  8. Approximately
    • Around
  9. The figures for
    • The data for
  10. Respectively
    • In the same order
  11. Generally stable
    • Largely consistent
  12. Diverge upwards to finish at
    • Increase and conclude at
  13. Experienced the inverse trend, dropping to end at
    • Followed the opposite pattern, falling to conclude at
  14. Concluded the period at precisely
    • Ended the period at exactly
  15. In contrast
    • Conversely
  16. Ratios
    • Proportions
  17. Lower throughout with the former beginning at
    • Consistently lower, starting at
  18. Plateauing just above
    • Stabilizing just above
  19. The remainder of the surveyed timeframe
    • The rest of the observed period
  20. The latter
    • The second one
  21. In comparison
    • When compared
  22. Near
    • Close to
  23. In the middle years of the period
    • During the middle part of the timeframe
  24. Before a full recovery in the final year
    • Prior to a complete rebound in the last year

Pronunciation

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

ˈdiːteɪlz ðə pəˈsɛntɪʤɪz fɔː
ˈveəriəs ˈkʌntriz əˈraʊnd ðə wɜːld frɒm
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ə ˈʤɛnᵊrᵊl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærᵊnt ðæt
rəʊz ɪn ɔːl ˈneɪʃᵊnz ɪkˈsɛpt fɔː
ə ˈmɑːʤɪnᵊl dɪˈklaɪn
ðə pəˈsɛntɪʤ wɒz ˈsteɪbᵊl ˌəʊvəˈrɔːl
mɔː dɪˈvɛləpt ˈneɪʃᵊnz
ˈʤɛnᵊrᵊli ˈrɛʤɪstəd ˈhaɪər ɪmˈplɔɪmənt pəˈsɛntɪʤɪz kəmˈpeəd tuː
əˈprɒksɪmətli
ðə ˈfɪɡəz fɔː
rɪˈspɛktɪvli
ˈʤɛnᵊrᵊli ˈsteɪbᵊl
daɪˈvɜːʤ ˈʌpwədz tuː ˈfɪnɪʃ æt
ɪkˈspɪəriənst ði ɪnˈvɜːs trɛnd ˈdrɒpɪŋ tuː ɛnd æt
kənˈkluːdɪd ðə ˈpɪəriəd æt prɪˈsaɪsli
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst
ˈreɪʃiəʊz
ˈləʊə θruːˈaʊt wɪð ðə ˈfɔːmə bɪˈɡɪnɪŋ æt
ˈplætəʊɪŋ ʤʌst əˈbʌv
ðə rɪˈmeɪndər ɒv ðə ˈsɜːveɪd ˈtaɪmˌfreɪm
ðə ˈlætə
ɪn kəmˈpærɪsᵊn
nɪə
ɪn ðə ˈmɪdᵊl jɪəz ɒv ðə ˈpɪəriəd
bɪˈfɔːr ə fʊl rɪˈkʌvᵊri ɪn ðə ˈfaɪnᵊl jɪə

Vocabulary Practice

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

The line chart d_________________________r females working in v________________________________m ages of 15 to 64. L_____________________________________________________t employment r________________________________r Iceland, where there was a________________________________e, and Turkey, where t____________________________l. The three m______________________s also g______________________________________________________________________o Chile and Turkey.

In 2003, there were a___________y 10% differences in t_____________r female employment in Iceland, Canada and Germany at 81%, 69%, and 59%, r____________y. Over the next 4 years, these percentages were g____________e before Canadian employment began to d_____________________t 65% in 2009 and Iceland e___________________________________________________t 78%. Canada was more stable and c____________________________y 70%.

I_____________t, Chile and Turkeys’ female employment r______s were l_________________________________________________t 35% and p__________________e 40% for t______________________________________e. T_________r, i___________n, fell from 25% in 2003 to n____r 20% i__________________________________d, b_________________________________r.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

Speaking Practice

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

Work (alternate)

What do you do for work?

What are your responsibilities?

Is there some other kind of work you would rather do?

IELTS Essay: Innovative Employees

IELTS Essay: Innovative Employees

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

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:

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS Essay: Innovative Employees

Some people think that when recruiting, companies should aim to take on people who are innovative and able to work independently while others consider they should recruit people who are able to work in a team and follow instructions.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

When hiring employees, companies face a crucial decision: should they prioritize individuals who are creative and capable of working independently, or should they focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions? While both types of employees bring unique strengths, I believe that companies should aim for a workforce with good team-working skills.

On the one hand, prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The company is known for hiring highly independent engineers who think laterally and devise groundbreaking solutions, such as the reusable rocket system. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply followed instructions, it is unlikely that they would have achieved such technological advancements. In the adjacent tech industry, companies like Google and Apple thrive because they recruit employees who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take the initiative to develop new ideas, products, and solutions. Therefore, in industries where innovation is key, hiring independent thinkers is essential.

However, in the vast majority of contexts teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are crucial. In the fast-food industry, companies such as McDonald’s depend on employees who can strictly adhere to set procedures to ensure consistency in service and food quality. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency. In large-scale manufacturing, such as automobile assembly lines at Toyota or Ford, efficiency is achieved when workers collaborate and follow instructions meticulously. If each employee tried to introduce their own methods, production would become chaotic and inefficient. This highlights the fact that teamwork and compliance with established procedures are necessary for smooth operations. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative staff must collaborate efficiently under strict protocols to provide effective patient care.

In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who excel at teamwork and following instructions have their place in the workforce. Teamwork and adherence to protocols, in my opinion, are more generally applicable and therefore valuable characteristics.

Analysis

1. When hiring employees, companies face a crucial decision: should they prioritize individuals who are creative and capable of working independently, or should they focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions? 2. While both types of employees bring unique strengths, I believe that companies should aim for a workforce with good team-working skills.

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

1. On the one hand, prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress. 2. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. 3. The company is known for hiring highly independent engineers who think laterally and devise groundbreaking solutions, such as the reusable rocket system. 4. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply followed instructions, it is unlikely that they would have achieved such technological advancements. 5. In the adjacent tech industry, companies like Google and Apple thrive because they recruit employees who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take the initiative to develop new ideas, products, and solutions. 6. Therefore, in industries where innovation is key, hiring independent thinkers is essential.

  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. Better to have more detail.
  6. This essay is a bit long.

1. However, in the vast majority of contexts teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are crucial. 2. In the fast-food industry, companies such as McDonald’s depend on employees who can strictly adhere to set procedures to ensure consistency in service and food quality. 3. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency. 4. In large-scale manufacturing, such as automobile assembly lines at Toyota or Ford, efficiency is achieved when workers collaborate and follow instructions meticulously. 5. If each employee tried to introduce their own methods, production would become chaotic and inefficient. 6. This highlights the fact that teamwork and compliance with established procedures are necessary for smooth operations. 7. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative staff must collaborate efficiently under strict protocols to provide effective patient care.

  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. Keep extending your ideas.
  6. Include further results to extend fully.
  7. This essay is maybe too long – aim for about 275 words.

1. In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who excel at teamwork and following instructions have their place in the workforce. 2. Teamwork and adherence to protocols, in my opinion, are more generally applicable and therefore valuable characteristics.

  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.

When hiring employees, companies face a crucial decision: should they prioritize individuals who are creative and capable of working independently, or should they focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions? While both types of employees bring unique strengths, I believe that companies should aim for a workforce with good team-working skills.

On the one hand, prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The company is known for hiring highly independent engineers who think laterally and devise groundbreaking solutions, such as the reusable rocket system. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply followed instructions, it is unlikely that they would have achieved such technological advancements. In the adjacent tech industry, companies like Google and Apple thrive because they recruit employees who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take the initiative to develop new ideas, products, and solutions. Therefore, in industries where innovation is key, hiring independent thinkers is essential.

However, in the vast majority of contexts teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are crucial. In the fast-food industry, companies such as McDonald’s depend on employees who can strictly adhere to set procedures to ensure consistency in service and food quality. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency. In large-scale manufacturing, such as automobile assembly lines at Toyota or Ford, efficiency is achieved when workers collaborate and follow instructions meticulously. If each employee tried to introduce their own methods, production would become chaotic and inefficient. This highlights the fact that teamwork and compliance with established procedures are necessary for smooth operations. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative staff must collaborate efficiently under strict protocols to provide effective patient care.

In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who excel at teamwork and following instructions have their place in the workforce. Teamwork and adherence to protocols, in my opinion, are more generally applicable and therefore valuable characteristics.

Answers

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

  • Hiring employees → Recruiting staff
  • Face a crucial decision → Make a pivotal choice
  • Prioritize → Emphasize
  • Creative and capable of working independently → Inventive and self-sufficient
  • Focus on candidates who excel at teamwork and following instructions → Seek candidates who thrive in collaborative environments and follow directions well
  • Bring unique strengths → Offer distinctive abilities
  • Aim for a workforce with good team-working skills → Strive for a team-oriented workforce
  • On the one hand → From one perspective
  • Prioritizing innovative and independent workers drives progress → Emphasizing originality and autonomy fuels advancement
  • Hiring highly independent engineers → Recruiting self-reliant engineers
  • Think laterally → Approach problems creatively
  • Devise groundbreaking solutions → Develop revolutionary innovations
  • Reusable rocket system → Recoverable space launch technology
  • Simply followed instructions → Strictly adhered to guidelines
  • Achieved such technological advancements → Reached these milestones in innovation
  • In the adjacent tech industry → Within the neighboring technology sector
  • Thrive → Prosper
  • Recruit employees → Hire staff
  • Take the initiative to develop new ideas → Proactively generate innovative concepts
  • Products → Offerings
  • Solutions → Resolutions
  • Key → Fundamental
  • Hiring independent thinkers is essential → Bringing in autonomous problem-solvers is crucial
  • In the vast majority of contexts → Across most situations
  • Crucial → Vital
  • In the fast-food industry → Within the quick-service restaurant sector
  • Depend on → Rely upon
  • Strictly adhere to set procedures → Follow established protocols rigorously
  • Ensure consistency in service and food quality → Maintain uniformity in offerings and standards
  • Reinvent → Transform
  • Follow standardized guidelines to maintain consistency → Adhere to predefined procedures for uniform results
  • In large-scale manufacturing → Within mass production environments
  • Assembly lines → Production chains
  • Efficiency is achieved when → Optimal performance occurs when
  • Collaborate → Work together
  • Follow instructions meticulously → Execute directives with precision
  • Introduce their own methods → Implement personal approaches
  • Production would become chaotic and inefficient → Manufacturing processes would devolve into disorder
  • This highlights the fact that → This underscores the idea that
  • Compliance with established procedures → Adherence to standard protocols
  • Smooth operations → Seamless functionality
  • Administrative staff → Office personnel
  • Under strict protocols to provide effective patient care → Operate within rigid guidelines to ensure quality medical support
  • Excel → Perform exceptionally
  • Have their place in the workforce → Hold valuable roles in employment
  • Adherence → Compliance
  • More generally applicable → Broader in scope
  • Valuable characteristics → Important traits

Pronunciation

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

ˈhaɪərɪŋ ˌɛmplɔɪˈiːz

feɪs ə ˈkruːʃᵊl dɪˈsɪʒᵊn

praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz

kriˈeɪtɪv ænd ˈkeɪpəbᵊl ɒv ˈwɜːkɪŋ ˌɪndɪˈpɛndəntli

ˈfəʊkəs ɒn ˈkændɪˌdeɪts huː ɪkˈsɛl æt ˈtiːmwɜːk ænd ˈfɒləʊɪŋ ɪnˈstrʌkʃᵊnz

brɪŋ juːˈniːk strɛŋθs

eɪm fɔːr ə ˈwɜːkfɔːs wɪð ɡʊd ˈtiːmwɜːkɪŋ skɪlz

ɒn ðə wʌn hænd

praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪzɪŋ ˈɪnəvətɪv ænd ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt ˈwɜːkəz draɪvz ˈprəʊɡrɛs

ˈhaɪərɪŋ ˈhaɪli ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt ˌɛnʤɪˈnɪəz

θɪŋk ˈlætᵊrᵊli

dɪˈvaɪz ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ səˈluːʃᵊnz

riːˈjuːzəbᵊl ˈrɒkɪt ˈsɪstəm

ˈsɪmpli ˈfɒləʊd ɪnˈstrʌkʃᵊnz

əˈʧiːvd sʌʧ ˌtɛknəˈlɒʤɪkᵊl ədˈvɑːnsmənts

ɪn ði əˈʤeɪsᵊnt tɛk ˈɪndəstri

θraɪv

rɪˈkruːt ˌɛmplɔɪˈiːz

teɪk ði ɪˈnɪʃətɪv tuː dɪˈvɛləp njuː aɪˈdɪəz

ˈprɒdʌkts

səˈluːʃᵊnz

kiː

ˈhaɪərɪŋ ˌɪndɪˈpɛndənt ˈθɪŋkəz ɪz ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl

ɪn ðə vɑːst məˈʤɒrəti ɒv ˈkɒntɛksts

ˈkruːʃᵊl

ɪn ðə fɑːst-fuːd ˈɪndəstri

dɪˈpɛnd ɒn

ˈstrɪktli ədˈhɪə tuː sɛt prəˈsiːʤəz

ɪnˈʃɔː kənˈsɪstᵊnsi ɪn ˈsɜːvɪs ænd fuːd ˈkwɒləti

ˌriːɪnˈvɛnt

ˈfɒləʊ ˈstændədaɪzd ˈɡaɪdlaɪnz tuː meɪnˈteɪn kənˈsɪstᵊnsi

ɪn lɑːʤ-skeɪl ˌmænjəˈfækʧərɪŋ

əˈsɛmbli laɪnz

ɪˈfɪʃᵊnsi ɪz əˈʧiːvd wɛn

kəˈlæbəreɪt

ˈfɒləʊ ɪnˈstrʌkʃᵊnz məˈtɪkjələsli

ˌɪntrəˈdjuːs ðeər əʊn ˈmɛθədz

prəˈdʌkʃᵊn wʊd bɪˈkʌm keɪˈɒtɪk ænd ˌɪnɪˈfɪʃᵊnt

ðɪs ˈhaɪlaɪts ðə fækt ðæt

kəmˈplaɪəns wɪð ɪˈstæblɪʃt prəˈsiːʤəz

smuːð ˌɒpᵊrˈeɪʃᵊnz

ədˈmɪnɪstrətɪv stɑːf

ˈʌndə strɪkt ˈprəʊtəkɒlz tuː prəˈvaɪd ɪˈfɛktɪv ˈpeɪʃᵊnt keə

ɪkˈsɛl

hæv ðeə pleɪs ɪn ðə ˈwɜːkfɔːs

ədˈhɪərᵊns

mɔː ˈʤɛnᵊrᵊli əˈplɪkəbᵊl

ˈvæljəbᵊl ˌkærəktəˈrɪstɪks

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:

When hiring e__________s, companies face a___________________n: should they p__________e individuals who are creative a_________________________________________________y, or should they focus o____________________________________________________________s? While both types of employees bring u_________________s, I believe that companies should aim f________________________________________________________s.

On t______________d, prioritizing i______________________________s. Take, for example, Elon Musk’s SpaceX. The company is known for hiring h__________________________s who think l__________y and devise g_________________s, such as the reusable r_________________m. If SpaceX had only employed individuals who simply f________________s, it is unlikely that they would have achieved s_____________________________s. In t_______________________y, companies like Google and Apple t_______e because they recruit e___________s who do not just wait to be told what to do but instead take t___________________________________________________________s. Therefore, in industries where innovation is k___y, hiring i___________________________________________________l.

However, in t_________________________s teamwork and the ability to follow instructions are c_______l. In t________________y, companies such as McDonald’s depend ____n employees who can strictly a_s to ensure c____________________________________________________y. A worker at McDonald’s does not need to reinvent the way a burger is made; they need to follow s____________________________________________y. In l____________________g, such as automobile assembly l_____s at Toyota or Ford, efficiency i_______________n workers c_________e and follow i__________________y. If each employee tried to introduce t_____________________s, production w________________________________t. This h_____________________t teamwork and compliance w____________________s are necessary for smooth o_________s. Another example of this would be hospitals where doctors, nurses, and administrative s_____f must collaborate efficiently under s_______________________________________________________________e.

In conclusion, both independent and innovative employees and those who e_____l at teamwork and following instructions have t____________________e. Teamwork and a_________e to protocols, in my opinion, are more g____________________e and therefore valuable c____________s.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://uk.indeed.com/career-advice/career-development/teamwork-skills

Speaking Practice

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

Work (Model answer available on my Patreon)

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

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:

The working week should be shorter and workers should have a longer weekend.

Do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay: Flights and Flying

IELTS Essay: Flights and Flying

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of flights and flying.

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:

Patreon Ebooks

Dave

IELTS Essay: Flights and Flying

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.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Air travel consumes enormous amounts of fuel, especially long-haul flights, and contributes significantly to pollution. Some argue that instead of restricting car usage, we should discourage unnecessary air travel. I believe this contention possesses merit and should be pursued by the relevant authorities.

Critics argue that private cars are also a major source of pollution. Unlike airplanes, which carry hundreds of passengers at once, most cars contain just one or two people. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours, producing tons of CO2 daily. Relatedly, urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency, leading to chronic air pollution and health issues such as asthma and lung disease. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution, much of it from vehicles. Given these facts, it seems unfair to blame flights alone while ignoring the impact of car travel. This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that cars never could. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within a day. A student from Brazil can study abroad in Australia, broadening their educational and career opportunities. If flights were severely restricted, it would not only damage economies but also isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences.

However, it is undeniable that long-distance flights burn an extraordinary amount of fuel. A single trip from London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters of fuel, equivalent to what an average car would consume over many years. Airplanes release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere, where they linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change. This makes non-essential air travel a major contributor to carbon footprints. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, amass over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would disappear, it would encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism. Such a pivot would be a negative in the short-term but yield long-term benefits not only for any nation dependent on tourism, but more importantly, for the global health of the environment.

In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be targeted to reduce emissions generally. Investing in better transport infrastructure, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing sustainable tourism policies would also help address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel.

Analysis

1. Air travel consumes enormous amounts of fuel, especially long-haul flights, and contributes significantly to pollution. Some argue that instead of restricting car usage, we should discourage unnecessary air travel. 2. I believe this contention possesses merit and should be pursued by the relevant authorities.

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

1. Critics argue that private cars are also a major source of pollution. 2. Unlike airplanes, which carry hundreds of passengers at once, most cars contain just one or two people. 3. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours, producing tons of CO2 daily. 4. Relatedly, urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency, leading to chronic air pollution and health issues such as asthma and lung disease. 5. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution, much of it from vehicles. 6. Given these facts, it seems unfair to blame flights alone while ignoring the impact of car travel. 7. This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that cars never could. 8. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within a day. 9. A student from Brazil can study abroad in Australia, broadening their educational and career opportunities. 10. If flights were severely restricted, it would not only damage economies but also isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences.

  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. Better to have more detail.
  6. You can vary long and short sentences.
  7. I did some research for this essay, so yours can be more general.
  8. Avoid over-generalizing.
  9. Or making claims that are too strong.
  10. This essay is a bit long – aim more for 275 words.

1. However, it is undeniable that long-distance flights burn an extraordinary amount of fuel. 2. A single trip from London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters of fuel, equivalent to what an average car would consume over many years. 3. Airplanes release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere, where they linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change. 4. This makes non-essential air travel a major contributor to carbon footprints. 5. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, amass over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. 6. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would disappear, it would encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism. 7. Such a pivot would be a negative in the short-term but yield long-term benefits not only for any nation dependent on tourism, but more importantly, for the global health of the environment.

  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. This is the side I agree with so the ideas should be stronger.
  6. Keep adding detail.
  7. Remember this essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.

1. In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be targeted to reduce emissions generally. 2. Investing in better transport infrastructure, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing sustainable tourism policies would also help address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel.

  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.

Air travel consumes enormous amounts of fuel, especially long-haul flights, and contributes significantly to pollution. Some argue that instead of restricting car usage, we should discourage unnecessary air travel. I believe this contention possesses merit and should be pursued by the relevant authorities.

Critics argue that private cars are also a major source of pollution. Unlike airplanes, which carry hundreds of passengers at once, most cars contain just one or two people. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours, producing tons of CO2 daily. Relatedly, urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency, leading to chronic air pollution and health issues such as asthma and lung disease. In fact, the World Health Organization (WHO) reports that over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution, much of it from vehicles. Given these facts, it seems unfair to blame flights alone while ignoring the impact of car travel. This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that cars never could. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within a day. A student from Brazil can study abroad in Australia, broadening their educational and career opportunities. If flights were severely restricted, it would not only damage economies but also isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences.

However, it is undeniable that long-distance flights burn an extraordinary amount of fuel. A single trip from London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters of fuel, equivalent to what an average car would consume over many years. Airplanes release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere, where they linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change. This makes non-essential air travel a major contributor to carbon footprints. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, amass over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would disappear, it would encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism. Such a pivot would be a negative in the short-term but yield long-term benefits not only for any nation dependent on tourism, but more importantly, for the global health of the environment.

In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be targeted to reduce emissions generally. Investing in better transport infrastructure, promoting electric vehicles, and implementing sustainable tourism policies would also help address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel.

Answers

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

  • Air travel → Aviation
  • Consumes enormous amounts of fuel → Uses vast quantities of fuel
  • Long-haul flights → Extended-distance air journeys
  • Contributes significantly to → Plays a major role in
  • Instead of restricting car usage → Rather than limiting automobile use
  • Discourage unnecessary air travel → Reduce non-essential flying
  • I believe this contention possesses merit → I find this argument valid
  • Should be pursued by the relevant authorities → Must be implemented by responsible agencies
  • Critics argue that private cars → Detractors claim personal vehicles
  • A major source of pollution → A significant contributor to environmental degradation
  • Unlike → In contrast to
  • Carry hundreds of passengers at once → Transport large numbers of people simultaneously
  • Contain → Include
  • Traffic congestion causes vehicles to idle for hours → Gridlock results in cars sitting idle for extended periods
  • Producing tons of CO2 daily → Emitting vast amounts of carbon dioxide every day
  • Relatedly → Similarly
  • Urban sprawl encourages excessive car dependency → Expanding cities promote overreliance on automobiles
  • Leading to chronic air pollution and health issues → Resulting in persistent smog and medical conditions
  • Asthma and lung disease → Respiratory illnesses such as bronchitis and emphysema
  • In fact → Indeed
  • Reports → Studies indicate
  • Over 4 million premature deaths per year are linked to air pollution → More than 4 million early fatalities annually are attributed to poor air quality
  • Much of it from → A large portion stemming from
  • Given these facts → Considering this evidence
  • Unfair → Unjustified
  • Blame flights alone → Solely hold air travel responsible
  • Ignoring the impact of car travel → Overlooking the role of road transport
  • This is particularly the case as flights connect families and cultures in ways that → This is especially true as air travel bridges loved ones and global communities
  • Within a day → In mere hours
  • Study abroad → Pursue education overseas
  • Broadening their educational and career opportunities → Expanding academic and professional prospects
  • If flights were severely restricted → Were air travel to be heavily limited
  • Damage economies → Harm financial systems
  • Isolate people from loved ones and life-changing experiences → Cut individuals off from family and transformative opportunities
  • It is undeniable that → There is no doubt that
  • Burn an extraordinary amount of fuel → Consume an immense quantity of energy
  • A single trip from → One journey between
  • Liters of fuel → Gallons of aviation fuel
  • An average car → A typical vehicle
  • Release emissions directly into the upper atmosphere → Discharge pollutants high in the sky
  • Linger longer and contribute disproportionately to climate change → Persist in the atmosphere and accelerate global warming
  • Major contributor to carbon footprints → Significant driver of greenhouse gas emissions
  • Amass → Accumulate
  • Disappear → Fade away
  • Encourage the growth of sustainable industries outside of tourism → Support the expansion of eco-friendly sectors beyond travel
  • Pivot → Shift focus
  • In the short-term → Initially
  • Yield long-term benefits → Generate lasting advantages
  • Nation dependent on tourism → Economy reliant on visitors
  • But more importantly, → More critically,
  • The global health of the environment → The planet’s ecological well-being
  • Targeted → Focused
  • Generally → Broadly speaking
  • Investing in better transport infrastructure → Funding improved transit systems
  • Promoting electric vehicles → Advocating for zero-emission cars
  • Implementing sustainable tourism policies → Enforcing eco-conscious travel regulations
  • Address the issue without harming economies or restricting essential travel → Tackle the problem while preserving financial stability and necessary mobility

Pronunciation

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

eə ˈtrævᵊl

kənˈsjuːmz ɪˈnɔːməs əˈmaʊnts ɒv ˈfjuːəl

lɒŋ-hɔːl flaɪts

kənˈtrɪbjuːts sɪɡˈnɪfɪkᵊntli tuː

ɪnˈstɛd ɒv rɪˈstrɪktɪŋ kɑː ˈjuːzɪʤ

dɪˈskʌrɪʤ ʌnˈnɛsəsɛri eə ˈtrævᵊl

aɪ bɪˈliːv ðɪs kənˈtɛnʃᵊn pəˈzɛsɪz ˈmɛrɪt

ʃʊd biː pəˈsjuːd baɪ ðə ˈrɛləvᵊnt ɔːˈθɒrətiz

ˈkrɪtɪks ˈɑːɡjuː ðæt ˈpraɪvət kɑːz

ə ˈmeɪʤə sɔːs ɒv pəˈluːʃᵊn

ʌnˈlaɪk

ˈkæri ˈhʌndrədz ɒv ˈpæsɪnʤəz æt wʌns

kənˈteɪn

ˈtræfɪk kənˈʤɛsʧᵊn ˈkɔːzɪz ˈvɪəkᵊlz tuː ˈaɪdᵊl fɔːr aʊəz

prəˈdjuːsɪŋ tʌnz ɒv kəʊˈdeɪli

rɪˈleɪtɪdli

ˈɜːbᵊn sprɔːl ɪnˈkʌrɪʤɪz ɪkˈsɛsɪv kɑː dɪˈpɛndənsi

ˈliːdɪŋ tuː ˈkrɒnɪk eə pəˈluːʃᵊn ænd hɛlθ ˈɪʃuːz

ˈæsmə ænd lʌŋ dɪˈziːz

ɪn fækt

rɪˈpɔːts

ˈəʊvə 4 ˈmɪljən ˈprɛməʧə dɛθs pɜː jɪər ɑː lɪŋkt tuː eə pəˈluːʃᵊn

mʌʧ ɒv ɪt frɒm

ˈɡɪvᵊn ðiːz fækts

ʌnˈfeə

bleɪm flaɪts əˈləʊn

ɪɡˈnɔːrɪŋ ði ˈɪmpækt ɒv kɑː ˈtrævᵊl

ðɪs ɪz pəˈtɪkjələli ðə keɪs æz flaɪts kəˈnɛkt ˈfæmᵊliz ænd ˈkʌlʧəz ɪn weɪz ðæt

wɪˈðɪn ə deɪ

ˈstʌdi əˈbrɔːd

ˈbrɔːdᵊnɪŋ ðeər ˌɛʤʊˈkeɪʃᵊnᵊl ænd kəˈrɪər ˌɒpəˈʧuːnətiz

ɪf flaɪts wɜː sɪˈvɪəli rɪˈstrɪktɪd

ˈdæmɪʤ ɪˈkɒnəmiz

ˈaɪsəleɪt ˈpiːpᵊl frɒm lʌvd wʌnz ænd laɪf-ˈʧeɪnʤɪŋ ɪkˈspɪəriənsɪz

ɪt ɪz ˌʌndɪˈnaɪəbᵊl ðæt

bɜːn ən ɪkˈstrɔːdᵊnᵊri əˈmaʊnt ɒv ˈfjuːəl

ə ˈsɪŋɡᵊl trɪp frɒm

ˈliːtəz ɒv ˈfjuːəl

ən ˈævᵊrɪʤ kɑː

rɪˈliːs ɪˈmɪʃᵊnz daɪˈrɛktli ˈɪntuː ði ˈʌpər ˈætməsfɪə

ˈlɪŋɡə ˈlɒŋɡər ænd kənˈtrɪbjuːt ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃᵊnətli tuː ˈklaɪmət ʧeɪnʤ

ˈmeɪʤə kənˈtrɪbjətə tuː ˈkɑːbᵊn ˈfʊtprɪnts

əˈmæs

ˌdɪsəˈpɪə

ɪnˈkʌrɪʤ ðə ɡrəʊθ ɒv səˈsteɪnəbᵊl ˈɪndəstriz ˌaʊtˈsaɪd ɒv ˈtʊərɪzᵊm

ˈpɪvət

ɪn ðə ˌʃɔːtˈtɜːm

jiːld ˈlɒŋtɜːm ˈbɛnɪfɪts

ˈneɪʃᵊn dɪˈpɛndənt ɒn ˈtʊərɪzᵊm

bʌt mɔːr ɪmˈpɔːtᵊntli,

ðə ˈɡləʊbᵊl hɛlθ ɒv ði ɪnˈvaɪrᵊnmənt

ˈtɑːɡɪtɪd

ˈʤɛnᵊrᵊli

ɪnˈvɛstɪŋ ɪn ˈbɛtə ˈtrænspɔːt ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌkʧə

prəˈməʊtɪŋ ɪˈlɛktrɪk ˈvɪəkᵊlz

ˈɪmplɪmɛntɪŋ səˈsteɪnəbᵊl ˈtʊərɪzᵊm ˈpɒləsiz

əˈdrɛs ði ˈɪʃuː wɪˈðaʊt ˈhɑːmɪŋ ɪˈkɒnəmiz ɔː rɪˈstrɪktɪŋ ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl ˈtrævᵊl

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:

Air _______l consumes ________________________l, especially long-haul ____s, and contributes _________________o pollution. Some argue that instead __________________e, we should discourage ____________________l. I ___________________________________t and should ___________________________s.

Critics _____________________s are also a ___________________n. U_____e airplanes, which carry _____________________e, most cars contain just one or two people. In cities like Los Angeles, traffic _______________________________s, producing ___________y. R________y, urban _____________________________________y, leading __________________________s such as asthma ___________e. I_______t, the World Health Organization (WHO) r_____s that over __________________________________________________n, much _______m vehicles. Given __________s, it seems u_____r to blame ___________e while ignoring ______________________l. This ______________________________________________________________________________t cars never could. A grandmother in India can visit her grandchildren in Canada within _y. A_____ student from Brazil can study ______d in Australia, broadening ________________________________________s. If ____________________d, it would not only damage __________s but also isolate _______________________s.

However, it ________________t long-distance flights burn _____________________________l. A ______________m London to Sydney, for instance, uses many thousands of liters _______l, equivalent to what an _________r would consume over many years. Airplanes release _____________________________________e, where they linger __________________________________________________e. This makes non-essential air travel a major ___________________________s. Many nations, such as Thailand for example, a_______s over 20% of the GDP comes from tourism. If international tourists were discouraged from flying, although millions of jobs in hotels, restaurants, and transportation would d__________r, it would encourage ________________________________________________m. Such a p_____t would be a negative in ________m but yield ___________s not only for any nation _________________m, but _________________y, for the _____________________t.

In conclusion, flights contribute significantly to pollution and should be t________d to reduce emissions g_______y. Investing _____________________________e, promoting ____________s, and implementing _________________s would also help address ____________________________________________________l.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://carbonmarketwatch.org/2024/07/31/summer-hot-ticket-why-flying-has-twice-the-climate-impact-youd-expect/

Speaking Practice

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

Flying

  1. Are there many airlines in your country?
  2. Have you ever flown anywhere?
  3. Where would you like to fly?
  4. Are you scared of flying?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:

Developing the economy will always damage the environment.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay Task 1: India’s GDP

IELTS Essay Task 1: India’s GDP

This is my IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of India’s GDP from a recent exam.

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:

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Dave

IELTS Essay Task 1: India’s GDP

The bar chart details the constituent elements of India’s GDP divided into the agriculture, industry, and service sectors from 1960 to 2000. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that services became by far the dominant field over the time surveyed, overtaking agriculture, which declined considerably. Industry increased but displayed a far less extreme trend, ending the period above agriculture.

In 1960, agriculture represented the overwhelming majority of India’s total GDP at near 63%, noticeably higher than industry and services at around 18% each. Over the next two decades, agriculture declined by 10% each year to fall to 45% in 1980 while there were reciprocal rises for industry and services, with both reaching just under 30% by the same year.

From 1980, agriculture continued a consistent decline that terminated at 25% in 2000. The trends for the remaining sectors then diverged with industry plateauing and remaining relatively stable around 23%. In contrast, the contribution of services to overall GDP more than doubled with near 20% surges over the ensuing decades to finish at 63%, a figure identical to the data point for agriculture 40 years prior.

Analysis

1. The bar chart details the constituent elements of India’s GDP divided into the agriculture, industry, and service sectors from 1960 to 2000. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that services became by far the dominant field over the time surveyed, overtaking agriculture, which declined considerably. 3. Industry increased but displayed a far less extreme trend, ending the period above agriculture.

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

1. In 1960, agriculture represented the overwhelming majority of India’s total GDP at near 63%, noticeably higher than industry and services at around 18% each. 2. Over the next two decades, agriculture declined by 10% each year to fall to 45% in 1980 while there were reciprocal rises for industry and services, with both reaching just under 30% by the same year.

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

1. From 1980, agriculture continued a consistent decline that terminated at 25% in 2000. 2. The trends for the remaining sectors then diverged with industry plateauing and remaining relatively stable around 23%. 3. In contrast, the contribution of services to overall GDP more than doubled with near 20% surges over the ensuing decades to finish at 63%, a figure identical to the data point for agriculture 40 years prior.

  1. Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
  2. The paragraphs should be about equal length.
  3. Include all the data.

Vocabulary

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

The bar chart details the constituent elements of India’s GDP divided into the agriculture, industry, and service sectors from 1960 to 2000. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that services became by far the dominant field over the time surveyed, overtaking agriculture, which declined considerably. Industry increased but displayed a far less extreme trend, ending the period above agriculture.

In 1960, agriculture represented the overwhelming majority of India’s total GDP at near 63%, noticeably higher than industry and services at around 18% each. Over the next two decades, agriculture declined by 10% each year to fall to 45% in 1980 while there were reciprocal rises for industry and services, with both reaching just under 30% by the same year.

From 1980, agriculture continued a consistent decline that terminated at 25% in 2000. The trends for the remaining sectors then diverged with industry plateauing and remaining relatively stable around 23%. In contrast, the contribution of services to overall GDP more than doubled with near 20% surges over the ensuing decades to finish at 63%, a figure identical to the data point for agriculture 40 years prior.

Answers

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

  1. Details the constituent elements of → Outlines the key components of
  2. Divided into → Categorized into
  3. Agriculture → Farming and cultivation
  4. Industry → Manufacturing and production
  5. Service → Tertiary sector
  6. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that → From a broad viewpoint, it is clear that
  7. Became by far the dominant field → Emerged as the leading sector
  8. Over the time surveyed → Throughout the analyzed period
  9. Overtaking → Surpassing
  10. Declined considerably → Dropped significantly
  11. Displayed a far less extreme trend → Exhibited a more moderate pattern
  12. Ending the period above → Concluding the timeframe higher than
  13. Represented the overwhelming majority of → Accounted for the vast bulk of
  14. Noticeably higher than → Substantially greater than
  15. Each → Every individual
  16. Over the next two decades → Across the following 20 years
  17. Fall to → Decrease to
  18. There were reciprocal rises for → Corresponding increases occurred for
  19. Reaching just under → Approaching slightly below
  20. By the same year → In the corresponding year
  21. Continued a consistent decline that terminated at → Maintained a steady decrease, ending at
  22. The trends for the remaining sectors then diverged → The patterns for the other categories then shifted in different directions
  23. Plateauing → Stabilizing
  24. Remaining relatively stable → Staying mostly unchanged
  25. Contribution to → Share in
  26. Overall GDP → Total economic output
  27. More than doubled with → Grew by over twice, accompanied by
  28. Surges → Significant increases
  29. Over the ensuing decades to finish at → Across the following years, concluding at
  30. A figure identical to the data point for → A value matching the recorded point for
  31. Prior → Earlier or preceding

Pronunciation

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

ˈdiːteɪlz ðə kənˈstɪʧuənt ˈɛlɪmənts ɒv
dɪˈvaɪdɪd ˈɪntuː
ˈæɡrɪkʌlʧə
ˈɪndəstri
ˈsɜːvɪs
ˈsɛktəz
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˌəʊvəˈrɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærᵊnt ðæt
bɪˈkeɪm baɪ fɑː ðə ˈdɒmɪnənt fiːld
ˈəʊvə ðə taɪm ˈsɜːveɪd
ˌəʊvəˈteɪkɪŋ
dɪˈklaɪnd kənˈsɪdᵊrəbᵊli
dɪˈspleɪd ə fɑː lɛs ɪkˈstriːm trɛnd
ˈɛndɪŋ ðə ˈpɪəriəd əˈbʌv
ˌrɛprɪˈzɛntɪd ði ˌəʊvəˈwɛlmɪŋ məˈʤɒrəti ɒv
ˈnəʊtɪsəbli ˈhaɪə ðæn
iːʧ
ˈəʊvə ðə nɛkst tuː ˈdɛkeɪdz
fɔːl tuː
ðeə wɜː rɪˈsɪprəkᵊl ˈraɪzɪz fɔː
ˈriːʧɪŋ ʤʌst ˈʌndə
baɪ ðə seɪm jɪə
kənˈtɪnjuːd ə kənˈsɪstᵊnt dɪˈklaɪn ðæt ˈtɜːmɪneɪtɪd æt
ðə trɛndz fɔː ðə rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ ˈsɛktəz ðɛn daɪˈvɜːʤd
ˈplætəʊɪŋ
rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ ˈrɛlətɪvli ˈsteɪbᵊl
ˌkɒntrɪˈbjuːʃᵊn əʊ
ˌəʊvəˈrɔːl ʤiː-diː-piː
mɔː ðæn ˈdʌbᵊld wɪð
ˈsɜːʤɪz
ˈəʊvə ði ɪnˈsjuːɪŋ ˈdɛkeɪdz tuː ˈfɪnɪʃ æt
ə ˈfɪɡər aɪˈdɛntɪkᵊl tuː ðə ˈdeɪtə pɔɪnt fɔː
ˈpraɪə

Vocabulary Practice

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

The bar chart d____________________________f India’s GDP d_________o the a_______e, i_______y, and s____________s from 1960 to 2000. L______________________________________________t services b__________________________________________________d, o_________g agriculture, which d______________________y. Industry increased but d_________________________d, e___________________e agriculture.

In 1960, agriculture r_________________________________f India’s total GDP at near 63%, n______________________n industry and services at around 18% e____h. O___________________s, agriculture declined by 10% each year to f_____o 45% in 1980 while t___________________________________r industry and services, with both r_______________r 30% b________________r.

From 1980, agriculture c___________________________________________t 25% in 2000. T_____________________________________________d with industry p___________g and r______________________e around 23%. In contrast, the c___________n of services to o______________________________________h near 20% s_______________________________________t 63%, a_______________________________________________r agriculture 40 years p______r.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.asianstudies.org/publications/eaa/archives/the-history-of-economic-development-in-india-since-independence/

Speaking Practice

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

Work-life balance (IELTS Speaking Part 3)

Question 1: What kinds of jobs do young people not want to do in your country?

Question 2: Who is best at advising young people about choosing a job: teachers or parents?

Question 3: Is money always the most important thing when choosing a job?

Question 4: Do you agree that most people nowadays are under pressure to work longer hours and take less holiday?

Question 5: What is the impact on society of people having a poor work-life balance?

Question 6: Could you recommend some effective strategies for governments and employers to ensure people have a good work-life balance?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:

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

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

IELTS Essay: Supporting Artists

IELTS Essay: Supporting Artists

This is my IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of city planning and zoning.

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:

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Dave

IELTS Essay: Supporting Artists

Some believe that the government should support artists like musicians, painters, and poets, while others argue that this is a misuse of funds. 

Discuss both views and give your own opinion

Some argue that government support for artists is vital for cultural and artistic development, while others believe that it constitutes a misuse of public funds. In my opinion, allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals is justifiable.

On the one hand, opponents of government support for the arts contend that this money could be better spent elsewhere, particularly on more pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. Critics make the point that the arts, while valuable, are a luxury that should not take precedence over basic public services. For example, during times of economic hardship, when governments are faced with budget deficits, many believe that funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated to prioritize more immediate needs. This is evident in countries like Greece, where austerity measures have forced significant cuts to public services. These critics argue artists should seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives, such as sponsorships or crowdfunding, rather than straining taxpayers.

On the other hand, those in favor of government support for artists argue that the arts are an essential part of society’s cultural heritage and identity. Without funding, many artists would struggle to create their work, which could lead to a decline in cultural production. For instance, state funding has been crucial for the preservation and development of various art forms. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund allocates money to arts projects, helping to support everything from local theatre productions to international art exhibitions. These investments can stimulate creativity, enrich society, and attract tourists. In fact, art often generates substantial revenue through tourism, as visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals. Therefore, government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth.

In conclusion, while both sides present valid arguments, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the long-term cultural and economic health of society, provided that it is managed prudently and in conjunction with other societal priorities. A well-balanced allocation of funds can ensure that both the arts and essential public services are adequately supported.

Analysis

1. Some argue that government support for artists is vital for cultural and artistic development, while others believe that it constitutes a misuse of public funds. 2. In my opinion, allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals is justifiable.

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

1. On the one hand, opponents of government support for the arts contend that this money could be better spent elsewhere, particularly on more pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. 2. Critics make the point that the arts, while valuable, are a luxury that should not take precedence over basic public services. 3. For example, during times of economic hardship, when governments are faced with budget deficits, many believe that funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated to prioritize more immediate needs. 4. This is evident in countries like Greece, where austerity measures have forced significant cuts to public services. 5. These critics argue artists should seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives, such as sponsorships or crowdfunding, rather than straining taxpayers.

  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. Better to have more detail.

1. On the other hand, those in favor of government support for artists argue that the arts are an essential part of society’s cultural heritage and identity. 2. Without funding, many artists would struggle to create their work, which could lead to a decline in cultural production. 3. For instance, state funding has been crucial for the preservation and development of various art forms. 4. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund allocates money to arts projects, helping to support everything from local theatre productions to international art exhibitions. 5. These investments can stimulate creativity, enrich society, and attract tourists. 6. In fact, art often generates substantial revenue through tourism, as visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals. 7. Therefore, government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth.

  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. This essay is a bit long – aim for about 275 words.
  6. This paragraph can be longer since I agree with this side.
  7. State a final conclusion.

1. In conclusion, while both sides present valid arguments, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the long-term cultural and economic health of society, provided that it is managed prudently and in conjunction with other societal priorities. 2. A well-balanced allocation of funds can ensure that both the arts and essential public services are adequately supported.

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

Vocabulary

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

Some argue that government support for artists is vital for cultural and artistic development, while others believe that it constitutes a misuse of public funds. In my opinion, allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals is justifiable.

On the one hand, opponents of government support for the arts contend that this money could be better spent elsewhere, particularly on more pressing social issues such as healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation. Critics make the point that the arts, while valuable, are a luxury that should not take precedence over basic public services. For example, during times of economic hardship, when governments are faced with budget deficits, many believe that funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated to prioritize more immediate needs. This is evident in countries like Greece, where austerity measures have forced significant cuts to public services. These critics argue artists should seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives, such as sponsorships or crowdfunding, rather than straining taxpayers.

On the other hand, those in favor of government support for artists argue that the arts are an essential part of society’s cultural heritage and identity. Without funding, many artists would struggle to create their work, which could lead to a decline in cultural production. For instance, state funding has been crucial for the preservation and development of various art forms. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund allocates money to arts projects, helping to support everything from local theatre productions to international art exhibitions. These investments can stimulate creativity, enrich society, and attract tourists. In fact, art often generates substantial revenue through tourism, as visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals. Therefore, government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth.

In conclusion, while both sides present valid arguments, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the long-term cultural and economic health of society, provided that it is managed prudently and in conjunction with other societal priorities. A well-balanced allocation of funds can ensure that both the arts and essential public services are adequately supported.

Answers

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

Government support
State assistance

Vital
Crucial

Cultural and artistic development
Advancement of culture and the arts

Constitutes
Represents

Misuse of public funds
Improper allocation of taxpayer money

Allocating resources for creatively-minded individuals
Distributing funds to support artistic talents

Justifiable
Defensible

Opponents of
Critics of

Contend
Argue

Better spent elsewhere
Put to better use in other areas

Particularly on more pressing social issues
Especially on urgent societal concerns

Healthcare
Medical services

Poverty alleviation
Reducing financial hardship

Critics make the point
Opponents argue

Valuable
Important

Luxury
Non-essential indulgence

Take precedence over basic public services
Be prioritized over fundamental community needs

During times of economic hardship
In periods of financial strain

Faced with budget deficits
Dealing with financial shortfalls

Funding for arts programs should be reduced or eliminated
Support for artistic initiatives should be cut back or discontinued

Prioritize more immediate needs
Focus on addressing urgent necessities

This is evident in
This is demonstrated by

Austerity measures
Economic cutbacks

Forced significant cuts to public services
Led to major reductions in essential services

Seek funding through private means or market-based initiatives
Rely on private investments or commercial opportunities

Sponsorships
Corporate funding

Crowdfunding
Community-based fundraising

Rather than straining taxpayers
Instead of burdening citizens financially

Those in favor of
Supporters of

An essential part of
A fundamental component of

Cultural heritage and identity
Traditions and collective identity

Without funding
In the absence of financial support

Struggle to create their work
Face challenges in producing art

Decline in cultural production
Reduction in creative output

Crucial
Essential

Preservation
Protection

Various art forms
Diverse creative expressions

Allocates money to arts projects
Designates funds for artistic endeavors

Local theatre productions
Community stage performances

International art exhibitions
Global showcases of artwork

Investments
Funding initiatives

Stimulate creativity
Encourage innovation

Enrich society
Enhance communal well-being

Attract tourists
Draw visitors

Generates substantial revenue
Produces significant income

Visitors flock to cities known for their cultural institutions and festivals
Tourists gather in areas celebrated for their artistic attractions and events

Government funding is a means to promote national pride and economic growth
Public financing fosters patriotism and boosts the economy

Present valid arguments
Offer reasonable points

Long-term cultural and economic health of society
Sustained well-being of culture and economy

Provided that it is managed prudently
If handled wisely

In conjunction with
Together with

A well-balanced allocation of funds
A fair distribution of resources

Ensure
Guarantee

Adequately supported
Properly funded

Pronunciation

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

ˈɡʌvᵊnmənt səˈpɔːt
ˈvaɪtᵊl
ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ænd ɑːˈtɪstɪk dɪˈvɛləpmənt
ˈkɒnstɪʧuːts
ˌmɪsˈjuːs ɒv ˈpʌblɪk fʌndz
ˈæləʊkeɪtɪŋ rɪˈzɔːsɪz fɔː kriˈeɪtɪvli-ˈmaɪndɪd ˌɪndɪˈvɪʤuəlz
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪəbᵊl
əˈpəʊnənts ɒv
kənˈtɛnd
ˈbɛtə spɛnt ˌɛlsˈweə
pəˈtɪkjələli ɒn mɔː ˈprɛsɪŋ ˈsəʊʃᵊl ˈɪʃuːz
ˈhɛlθkeə
ˈpɒvəti əˌliːviˈeɪʃᵊn
ˈkrɪtɪks meɪk ðə pɔɪnt
ˈvæljəbᵊl
ˈlʌkʃᵊri
teɪk ˈprɛsɪdᵊns ˈəʊvə ˈbeɪsɪk ˈpʌblɪk ˈsɜːvɪsɪz
ˈdjʊərɪŋ taɪmz ɒv ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈhɑːdʃɪp
feɪst wɪð ˈbʌʤɪt ˈdɛfɪsɪts
ˈfʌndɪŋ fɔːr ɑːts ˈprəʊɡræmz ʃʊd biː rɪˈdjuːst ɔːr ɪˈlɪmɪneɪtɪd
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz mɔːr ɪˈmiːdiət niːdz
ðɪs ɪz ˈɛvɪdᵊnt ɪn
ɔːˈstɛrəti ˈmɛʒəz
fɔːst sɪɡˈnɪfɪkᵊnt kʌts tuː ˈpʌblɪk ˈsɜːvɪsɪz
siːk ˈfʌndɪŋ θruː ˈpraɪvət miːnz ɔː ˈmɑːkɪt-beɪst ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz
sponsorships
crowdfunding
ˈrɑːðə ðæn ˈstreɪnɪŋ ˈtæksˌpeɪəz
ðəʊz ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv
ən ɪˈsɛnʃᵊl pɑːt ɒv
ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ˈhɛrɪtɪʤ ænd aɪˈdɛntəti
wɪˈðaʊt ˈfʌndɪŋ
ˈstrʌɡᵊl tuː kriˈeɪt ðeə wɜːk
dɪˈklaɪn ɪn ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl prəˈdʌkʃᵊn
ˈkruːʃᵊl
ˌprɛzəˈveɪʃᵊn
ˈveəriəs ɑːt fɔːmz
ˈæləʊkeɪts ˈmʌni tuː ɑːts ˈprɒʤɛkts
ˈləʊkᵊl ˈθɪətə prəˈdʌkʃᵊnz
ˌɪntəˈnæʃᵊnᵊl ɑːt ˌɛksɪˈbɪʃᵊnz
ɪnˈvɛstmənts
ˈstɪmjəleɪt ˌkriːeɪˈtɪvəti
ɪnˈrɪʧ səˈsaɪəti
əˈtrækt ˈtʊərɪsts
ˈʤɛnəreɪts səbˈstænʃᵊl ˈrɛvənjuː
ˈvɪzɪtəz flɒk tuː ˈsɪtiz nəʊn fɔː ðeə ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃᵊnz ænd ˈfɛstɪvᵊlz
ˈɡʌvᵊnmənt ˈfʌndɪŋ ɪz ə miːnz tuː prəˈməʊt ˈnæʃᵊnᵊl praɪd ænd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ
ˈprɛzᵊnt ˈvælɪd ˈɑːɡjəmənts
ˈlɒŋtɜːm ˈkʌlʧᵊrᵊl ænd ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk hɛlθ ɒv səˈsaɪəti
prəˈvaɪdɪd ðæt ɪt ɪz ˈmænɪʤd ˈpruːdᵊntli
ɪn kənˈʤʌŋkʃᵊn wɪð
ə ˌwɛlˈbælᵊnst ˌæləʊˈkeɪʃᵊn ɒv fʌndz
ɪnˈʃɔː
ˈædəkwətli səˈpɔːtɪd

Vocabulary Practice

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

Some argue that g_______________t for artists is v____l for c_________________________t, while others believe that it c________s a m______________________s. In my opinion, a____________________________________________________s is j_________e.

On the one hand, o_____________f government support for the arts c_________d that this money could be b______________________________e, p_______________________________s such as h_________e, education, and p_______________n. C______________________t that the arts, while v__________e, are a l_______y that should not t______________________________________s. For example, d_____________________________p, when governments are f__________________s, many believe that f________________________________________________d to p________________________s. T_____________n countries like Greece, where a________________s have f___________________________________s. These critics argue artists should s_____________________________________________s, such as s____________s or c___________g, r__________________________s.

On the other hand, t_________________f government support for artists argue that the arts are a________________f society’s c______________________________y. W______________g, many artists would s_____________________________k, which could lead to a d___________________________n. For instance, state funding has been c______l for the p__________n and development of v________________s. In the United Kingdom, the National Lottery Fund a_____________________________s, helping to support everything from l______________________s to i_________________________s. These i__________s can s__________________y, e____________y, and a_____________s. In fact, art often g_______________________e through tourism, as v____________________________________________________________s. Therefore, g______________________________________________________________________h.

In conclusion, while both sides p________________________s, I believe that government support for artists is crucial for the l___________________________________________________y, p_______________________________________y and i__________________h other societal priorities. A_____________________________s can e________e that both the arts and essential public services are a________________________d.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.history.com/topics/renaissance/medici-family

Speaking Practice

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

Art

Question 1: Do you like art?

Question 2: Do you like visiting art galleries?

Question 3: Do you want to be an artist?

Question 4: Do you like modern or traditional art?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic:

In today’s world of advanced science and technology, many still greatly value artists such as musicians, painters and writers.

What can the arts tell us about life that science cannot?