This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of pictures being used in newspapers and the media from the real IELTS general training exam.
Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my full, exclusive IELTS Ebooks – you can even sign up for private live lessons with me!
Dave
Competitiveness for Men & Women
Some claim that men are naturally more competitive than women.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Men are stereotypically considered to be more competitive than women. In my opinion, though this is ostensibly true, in fact, competitiveness just finds different expression in females.
The traditional argument in favor of this claim is that men are predisposed genetically to aggressive traits. Men have elevated levels of the hormone testosterone. This is supposedly an evolved adaptation as males in human pre-history had to battle one another for dominance and required a surplus of strength to hunt and provide for the whole family. In the modern world, this translates to a heightened aggressiveness often reflected in the number of ambitious men, driven to excel in their chosen field. Numerous studies and tests have confirmed the surface-level validity of this argument.
However, this ignores the fact that women simply have different outlets for their competitive qualities. In the past, societal prejudices often discouraged women from expressing an interest in competitive sports and ambitious career paths. It is now more common for females to embrace their competitive drive and strive for goals similar to men. However, this is merely a redirection of innate desires that were already present. Instead of competing in traditionally competitive fields, women in past generations focused their energies towards more domestic matters. These might not have been as seemingly competitive but women nonetheless had to compete against each other to gain the highest possible position in society available to them at the time.
In conclusion, despite the evolutionary evidence to support the natural competitiveness of males, I feel that the sexes are generally equal in this area though women express this desire more subtly. Such narrow stereotyping of both genders is often overly simplistic.
Analysis
1. Men are stereotypically considered to be more competitive than women. 2. In my opinion, though this is ostensibly true, in fact, competitiveness just finds different expression in females.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The traditional argument in favor of this claim is that men are predisposed genetically to aggressive traits. 2. Men have elevated levels of the hormone testosterone. 3. This is supposedly an evolved adaptation as males in human pre-history had to battle one another for dominance and required a surplus of strength to hunt and provide for the whole family. 4. In the modern world, this translates to a heightened aggressiveness often reflected in the number of ambitious men, driven to excel in their chosen field. 5. Numerous studies and tests have confirmed the surface-level validity of this argument.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
You can use research as support.
1. However, this ignores the fact that women simply have different outlets for their competitive qualities. 2. In the past, societal prejudices often discouraged women from expressing an interest in competitive sports and ambitious career paths. 3. It is now more common for females to embrace their competitive drive and strive for goals similar to men. 4. However, this is merely a redirection of innate desires that were already present. 5. Instead of competing in traditionally competitive fields, women in past generations focused their energies towards more domestic matters.65. These might not have been as seemingly competitive but women nonetheless had to compete against each other to gain the highest possible position in society available to them at the time.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Continue developing it…
as fully as possible!
Finish with a strong statement.
1. In conclusion, despite the evolutionary evidence to support the natural competitiveness of males, I feel that the sexes are generally equal in this area though women express this desire more subtly. 2. Such narrow stereotyping of both genders is often overly simplistic.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Men are stereotypically considered to be more competitive than women. In my opinion, though this is ostensibly true, in fact, competitiveness just finds different expression in females.
The traditional argument in favor of this claim is that men are predisposed genetically to aggressive traits. Men have elevated levels of the hormone testosterone. This is supposedly an evolved adaptation as males in human pre-history had to battle one another for dominance and required a surplus of strength to hunt and provide for the whole family. In the modern world, this translates to a heightened aggressiveness often reflected in the number of ambitious men, driven to excel in their chosen field. Numerous studies and tests have confirmed the surface-level validity of this argument.
However, this ignores the fact that women simply have different outlets for their competitive qualities. In the past, societal prejudices often discouraged women from expressing an interest in competitive sports and ambitious career paths. It is now more common for females to embrace their competitive drive and strive for goals similar to men. However, this is merely a redirection of innate desires that were already present. Instead of competing in traditionally competitive fields, women in past generationsfocused their energies towards more domestic matters. These might not have been as seemingly competitive but women nonetheless had to compete against each other to gain the highest possible position in societyavailable to them at the time.
In conclusion, despite the evolutionary evidence to support the natural competitiveness of males, I feel that the sexes are generally equal in this area though women express this desire more subtly. Such narrow stereotyping of both genders is often overly simplistic.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
stereotypically considered thought about in a prejudiced way
competitive wanting to beat other people, aggressive
ostensibly true seems to be the case
in fact actually
different expression varied ways
females woman
traditional argument old claim
claim argument
predisposed genetically innately built
aggressive traits competitive qualities
elevated levels increased amounts
hormone testosterone chemical that makes you aggressive
supposedly apparently
evolved adaptation learned over time
in human pre-history before people started writing down histories
battle one another for dominance fight for supremacy
required needed
surplus more than needed
strength power
hunt catch animals
provide for the whole family support everyone
in the modern world in today’s world
translates means
heightened aggressiveness more competitiveness
reflected in mirrored in
ambitious competitive, wanting to excel over others
driven to excel pushed to do well
chosen field where they work
numerous studies many reports
surface-level validity superficially true
ignores the fact that doesn’t pay attention to
different outlets varied ways
competitive qualities aggressive traits
in the past formerly
societal prejudices discrimination in public perception
discouraged not encouraged, dissuaded
expressing showing
interest in care about
ambitious career paths trying to excel in a career
embrace cherish, enjoy
competitive drive trying hard to excel
strive for try hard
merely only
redirection change the way
innate desires basic inclinations
already present there right now
instead of rather than
past generationsfocused people a long time ago cared about
towards to/at
domestic matters household things
seemingly apparently
nonetheless regardless
against each other fighting one another
gain get
highest possible position in society pinnacle of their place in life
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:
Men are s__________________________d to be more c_______________e than women. In my opinion, though this is o___________________e, i_________t, competitiveness just finds d_________________n in f__________s.
The t____________________t in favor of this c____m is that men are p_____________________y to a____________________s. Men have e__________________s of the h_____________________e. This is s______________________y an e_____________________n as males i___________________y had to b_____________________________e and r____________d a s__________s of s_________h to h______t and p________________________y. I_____________________d, this t_____________s to a h_________________________s often r_____________n the number of a_______________s men, d_________________l in their c_______________d. N_________________s and tests have confirmed the s_____________________y of this argument.
However, this i__________________________t women simply have d____________________s for their c_____________________s. I_______________t, s________________s often d____________d women from e___________g an i_____________n competitive sports and a_________________s. It is now more common for females to e___________e their c________________e and s____________r goals similar to men. However, this is m_______y a r_______________n of i_______________s that were a________________t. I____________f competing in traditionally competitive fields, women in p_____________________d their energies t__________s more d__________________s. These might not have been as s____________y competitive but women n_____________s had to compete a____________________r to g_____n the h________________________________ya__________________________e.
In conclusion, d__________e the evolutionary e__________e to support the n______l competitiveness of males, I feel that the sexes are g________________l in this a_____a though women express this d_____e more s_______y. Such n______w stereotyping of both genders is often overly s_____________c.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:
How are the attitudes of professionals and amateurs different?
How are children awarded competition prizes in your country?
What are the adverse effects of competition on children?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:
In many schools and universities today, women have a tendency to study the humanities (such as the arts and languages) while men more often major in science related subjects. Some believe this tendency should be changed.
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of pictures being used in newspapers and the media from the real IELTS general training exam.
Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my full, exclusive IELTS Ebooks – you can even sign up for private live lessons with me!
Dave
IELTS Essay: Newspapers & Learning
Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn about current events. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Many are of the view that news is best received through traditional newspapers while others feel that more modern media is preferable. In my opinion, despite the better habits engendered by reading the newspaper, it is impossible to argue convincingly against the convenience of newer mediums.
On the one hand, reading the newspaper allows for a healthy, distraction-free environment. This relates to both the content and the presentation of newspapers. Newspapers undergo rigorous editing and articles are necessarily published more slowly, allowing for better writing and fewer sensationalist headlines. An individual reading the newspaper can be compared to someone eating healthy foods or doing exercise. Similarly, newspapers are not vulnerable to the wide array of potential distractions on digital devices. There is less chance a newspaper reader will be distracted by social media or their personal communications.
On the other hand, there are a wide variety of functions only provided by more recent forms of media. Newspapers are primarily based on text, with images adding slight variety. In contrast, online media enables an individual to watch videos, listen to audio, cross-reference sources, consult primary sources, and generally take full advantage of the digital world. For example, a person who reads an article about a politician’s remarks can then check for the video in order to hear their words in context and later visit a site such as Twitter to analyze reactions from the general public, journalists, experts, and the politician. This information can then be easily shared through online messaging services or social media.
In conclusion, there are definite advantages to non-digital news sources, however, these are overshadowed by the versatility of modern media. It is the duty of individuals to ensure they enjoy the positives without the drawbacks of spending too much time online.
Analysis
1. Many are of the view that news is best received through traditional newspapers while others feel that more modern media is preferable. 2. In my opinion, despite the better habits engendered by reading the newspaper, it is impossible to argue convincingly against the convenience of newer mediums.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. On the one hand, reading the newspaper allows for a healthy, distraction-free environment. 2. This relates to both the content and the presentation of newspapers. 3. Newspapers undergo rigorous editing and articles are necessarily published more slowly, allowing for better writing and fewer sensationalist headlines. 4. An individual reading the newspaper can be compared to someone eating healthy foods or doing exercise. 5. Similarly, newspapers are not vulnerable to the wide array of potential distractions on digital devices. 6. There is less chance a newspaper reader will be distracted by social media or their personal communications.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
You can have a second main idea.
And develop it as well.
1. On the other hand, there are a wide variety of functions only provided by more recent forms of media. 2. Newspapers are primarily based on text, with images adding slight variety. 3. In contrast, online media enables an individual to watch videos, listen to audio, cross-reference sources, consult primary sources, and generally take full advantage of the digital world. 4. For example, a person who reads an article about a politician’s remarks can then check for the video in order to hear their words in context and later visit a site such as Twitter to analyze reactions from the general public, journalists, experts, and the politician. 5. This information can then be easily shared through online messaging services or social media.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Continue developing it…
as fully as possible!
1. In conclusion, there are definite advantages to non-digital news sources, however, these are overshadowed by the versatility of modern media. 2. It is the duty of individuals to ensure they enjoy the positives without the drawbacks of spending too much time online.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many are of the view that news is best received through traditional newspapers while others feel that more modern media is preferable. In my opinion, despite the better habits engendered by reading the newspaper, it is impossible to argue convincingly against the convenience of newer mediums.
On the one hand, reading the newspaper allows for a healthy, distraction-free environment. This relates to both the content and the presentation of newspapers. Newspapers undergo rigorous editing and articles are necessarily published more slowly, allowing for better writing and fewer sensationalist headlines. An individual reading the newspaper can be compared to someone eating healthy foods or doing exercise. Similarly, newspapers are not vulnerable to the wide array of potential distractions on digital devices. There is less chance a newspaper reader will be distracted by social media or their personal communications.
On the other hand, there are a wide variety of functions only provided by more recent forms of media. Newspapers are primarily based on text, with images adding slight variety. In contrast, online media enables an individual to watch videos, listen to audio, cross-reference sources, consult primary sources, and generally take full advantage of the digital world. For example, a person who reads an article about a politician’s remarks can then check for the video in order to hear their words in context and later visit a site such as Twitter to analyzereactions from the general public, journalists, experts,and the politician. This information can then be easily shared through online messaging services or social media.
In conclusion, there are definite advantages to non-digital news sources, however, these are overshadowed by the versatility of modern media. It is the duty of individuals to ensure they enjoy the positives without the drawbacks of spending too much time online.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
best received better to get this way
traditional newspapers normal papers like The New York Times
modern media online forms of news (and TV)
preferable better
despite regardless of
better habits improved actions
engendered by created by
impossible can’t happen
argue convincingly against make a good contrary point
convenience comfort and ease
mediums modes of delivery
on the one hand on the one side
allows for enables one
distraction-free environment able to focus
relates to concerning
content what’s inside
presentation how it is shown
undergo rigorous go through meticulous
necessarily must be
allowing for enabling
fewer sensationalist headlines not so many big headline stories
compared to relative to
similarly a lot like
vulnerable to at risk of
wide array many types
potential distractions possible ways to lose focus
digital devices phones, computers, etc.
distracted not focused
social media Facebook, Twitter, TikTok, etc.
personal communications chatting and emailing
on the other hand however
wide variety many different types
functions features
provided by presented by
primarily based on text mostly written
images pictures
slight variety small amount of different stuff
in contrast however
enables allows for
cross-reference sources check articles
consult primary sources look at where it first came from
generally take full advantage of the digital world overall use the internet
remarks what a person said
in context in the full situation
analyzereactions look at what people are saying
general public society
journalists reporters
experts people who know a lot about it
easily shared can be sent out quickly
through online messaging services Facebook Messenger, WhatsApp, etc.
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 are of the view that news is b_______________d through t_____________________s while others feel that more m________________a is p_______________e. In my opinion, d_______e the b________________________________y reading the newspaper, it is i______________e to a_________________________t the c________________e of newer m___________s.
O___________________d, reading the newspaper a______________r a healthy, d___________________________t. This r_________o both the c__________t and the p____________n of newspapers. Newspapers u_________________s editing and articles are n___________y published more slowly, a_________________r better writing and f______________________________s. An individual reading the newspaper can be c_______________o someone eating healthy foods or doing exercise. S_____________y, newspapers are not v_______________o the w___________y of p__________________s on d______________s. There is less chance a newspaper reader will be d__________d by s_________________a or their p________________________s.
O________________d, there are a w____________y of f_____________s only p______________y more recent forms of media. Newspapers are p_______________________t, with i__________s adding s____________y. I__________t, online media e________s an individual to watch videos, listen to audio, c______________________s, c__________________s, and g_____________________________________________d. For example, a person who reads an article about a politician’s r_________s can then check for the video in order to hear their words i____________t and later visit a site such as Twitter to a_____________s from the g___________c, j___________s, e__________s,and the politician. This information can then be e_______________d t________________________________________s or social media.
In conclusion, there are d_________e advantages to n_________________________s, however, these are o__________________d by the v___________y of modern media. It is the duty of individuals to e______e they enjoy the p________s without the d___________s of spending too much time online.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:
Is it more convenient nowadays to read the news online?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:
Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn news. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion
IELTS Essay Task 1: Transport Preferences Among Young People
The bar chart below shows transport preferences among young people in four countries in a single year.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
The bar chart details transport preferences for young people in terms of cars, motorcycles, and bicycles in the United Kingdom, the United States, France and Italy. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that cars are more popular in the UK, the US and especially Italy while the French prefer to ride bicycles. In all countries except the United States, motorcycles are the least common option.
Considering the statistics for cars first of all, the United States and the United Kingdom have identical figures at 60% each. Italy is noticeably higher at 75% while just 40% of younger individuals in France drive cars. In most nations, bicycles are also pervasive, with the highest number in France at 47%, followed by 30% in the UK, slightly over 10% in Italy, and precisely 10% in the US.
Motorcycles are only a significant choice for younger people in the United States (30% ride motorcycles there), and in contrast the figures for France, the UK, and Italy merely reach 11%, 10%, and 9%, respectively.
Analysis
1. The bar chart details transport preferences for young people in terms of cars, motorcycles, and bicycles in the United Kingdom, the United States, France and Italy. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that cars are more popular in the UK, the US and especially Italy while the French prefer to ride bicycles. 3. In all countries except the United States, motorcycles are the least common option.
Paraphrase what the bar chart shows.
Write a clear overview summarising the differences.
You might need a second sentence for your overview.
1. Considering the statistics for cars first of all, the United States and the United Kingdom have identical figures at 60% each. 2. Italy is noticeably higher at 75% while just 40% of younger individuals in France drive cars. 3. In most nations, bicycles are also pervasive, with the highest number in France at 47%, followed by 30% in the UK, slightly over 10% in Italy, and precisely 10% in the US.
Begin writing about the data for the first category.
Make sure you compare as much as possible.
Finish with the rest of the data.
1. Motorcycles are only a significant choice for younger people in the United States (30% ride motorcycles there), and in contrast the figures for France, the UK, and Italy merely reach 11%, 10%, and 9%, respectively.
Write about the final other parts of the graph – include everything!
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Take some notes on a piece of paper to aid your memory:
The bar chart details transport preferences for young people in terms of cars, motorcycles, and bicycles in the United Kingdom, the United States, France and Italy. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that cars are more popular in the UK, the US and especially Italy while the French prefer to ride bicycles. In all countries except the United States, motorcycles are the least common option.
Considering the statistics for cars first of all, the United States and the United Kingdom have identical figures at 60% each. Italy is noticeably higher at 75% while just 40% of younger individuals in France drive cars. In most nations, bicycles are also pervasive, with the highest number in France at 47%, followed by 30% in the UK, slightly over 10% in Italy, and precisely 10% in the US.
Motorcycles are only a significant choice for younger people in the United States (30% ride motorcycles there), and in contrast the figures for France, the UK, and Italy merely reach 11%, 10%, and 9%, respectively.
Answers
Try to write down or think of an antonym/opposite word for further practice:
details shows
transport preferences what vehicles you like to use
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall
Remember and fill in the blanks. Note it on a piece of paper so you can remember better:
The bar chart d_________s t_________________________s for young people in terms of cars, motorcycles, and bicycles in the United Kingdom, the United States, France and Italy. L_________________________________________________________t cars are more popular in the UK, the US and e______________y Italy while the French prefer to ride bicycles. In all countries e_______t the United States, motorcycles are the l_________________________n.
C________________g the s__________s for cars f_____________l, the United States and the United Kingdom have i_________________s at 60% e______h. Italy is n_____________________r at 75% w______e just 40% of younger individuals in France drive cars. I_______________s, bicycles are also p_____________e, with the highest number in France at 47%, f________________y 30% in the UK, s______________r 10% in Italy, and p___________y 10% in the US.
Motorcycles are only a s________________e for younger people in the United States (30% ride motorcycles there), and i_________________t the figures for France, the UK, and Italy m_______________h 11%, 10%, and 9%, r___________y.
Listening Practice
Listen to the related topic below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of shopping habits and age from the real IELTS exam.
Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my exclusive IELTS Ebooks – you can even sign up for private live lessons with me!
Dave
IELTS Essay: Shopping Habits & Age
Shopping habits depend more on your age group than anything else.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many would argue that an individual’s shopping habits depend more on age demographics than other factors. In my opinion, age is relevant in terms of a person’s tastes, however social class is a greater determiner.
Those who would argue in favor of age point out how a person’s preferences are largely fixed. The past several decades have witnessed seismic changes in culture, particularly related to technology. A person who grew up before the digital age is more inclined to spend money on books, holidays, furniture, and other non-digital items. The style of these items is also likely to be more traditional and less modern. However, someone under the age of 40, is more likely to spend on a new phone, electronic vehicle such as a Tesla, or clothing and furniture that is more modern and minimalist. These disparities widen when considering the youngest generations who are even more inclined to value the virtual world through purchases such as NFTs and cryptocurrencies.
However, for the majority of major purchases, wealth determines what a person can afford and therefore buy. This is evident for a variety of products ranging from food and wellness items to technology and fashion. For instance, most individuals would love to buy the newest smartphone when it is released, drive in a luxury car and shop for expensive and healthy organic products at the supermarket. However, one’s financial status will either allow a person to express these desires or force them to live frugally. The best evidence for this is the lack of discretion children show when it comes to shopping. They are uninhibited by financial concerns and therefore attempt to buy whatever they like.
In conclusion, despite the clear differences in taste present in individuals or different generations, financial flexibility is the clearest factor influencing a person’s shopping habits. This has been true for most of history and still remains the case today.
Analysis
1. Many would argue that an individual’s shopping habits depend more on age demographics than other factors. 2. In my opinion, age is relevant in terms of a person’s tastes, however social class is a greater determiner.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who would argue in favor of age point out how a person’s preferences are largely fixed. 2. The past several decades have witnessed seismic changes in culture, particularly related to technology. 3. A person who grew up before the digital age is more inclined to spend money on books, holidays, furniture, and other non-digital items. 4. The style of these items is also likely to be more traditional and less modern. 5. However, someone under the age of 40, is more likely to spend on a new phone, electronic vehicle such as a Tesla, or clothing and furniture that is more modern and minimalist. 6. These disparities widen when considering the youngest generations who are even more inclined to value the virtual world through purchases such as NFTs and cryptocurrencies.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Keep developing it fully.
1. However, for the majority of major purchases, wealth determines what a person can afford and therefore buy. 2. This is evident for a variety of products ranging from food and wellness items to technology and fashion. 3. For instance, most individuals would love to buy the newest smartphone when it is released, drive in a luxury car and shop for expensive and healthy organic products at the supermarket. 4. However, one’s financial status will either allow a person to express these desires or force them to live frugally. 5. The best evidence for this is the lack of discretion children show when it comes to shopping. 6. They are uninhibited by financial concerns and therefore attempt to buy whatever they like.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Continue developing it…
as fully as possible!
1. In conclusion, despite the clear differences in taste present in individuals or different generations, financial flexibility is the clearest factor influencing a person’s shopping habits. 2. This has been true for most of history and still remains the case today.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many would argue that an individual’s shopping habitsdepend more on age demographics than other factors. In my opinion, age is relevant in terms of a person’s tastes, however social class is a greater determiner.
Those who would argue in favor of age point out how a person’s preferences are largely fixed. The past several decades have witnessed seismic changes in culture, particularly related to technology. A person who grew up before the digital age is more inclined to spend money on books, holidays, furniture, and other non-digital items. The style of these items is also likely to be more traditional and less modern. However, someone under the age of 40, is more likely to spend on a new phone, electronic vehicle such as a Tesla, or clothing and furniture that is more modern and minimalist. These disparities widen when considering the youngest generations who are even more inclined to value the virtual world through purchases such as NFTs and cryptocurrencies.
However, for the majority of major purchases, wealth determines what a person can afford and therefore buy. This is evident for a variety of products ranging from food and wellness items to technology and fashion. For instance, most individuals would love to buy the newest smartphone when it is released, drive in a luxury car and shop for expensive and healthy organic products at the supermarket. However, one’s financial status will either allow a person to express these desires or force them to live frugally. The best evidence for this is the lack of discretion children show when it comes to shopping. They are uninhibited by financial concerns and therefore attempt to buy whatever they like.
In conclusion, despite the clear differences in taste present in individuals or different generations, financial flexibility is the clearest factorinfluencing a person’s shopping habits. This has been true for most of history and still remains the case today.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
shopping habits what people usually buy
depend more on has more to do with
age demographics age groups, generations
factors elements
relevant important here
in terms of concerning
tastes what people like and dislike
social class how wealthy you are
greater determiner has more importance for
argue in favor of make the point to support
point out argue
preferences likes
largely fixed mostly don’t change
witnessed seismic changes undergone big alterations
particularly related to technology especially concerning science and tech
digital age computer age
inclined like to
non-digital not related to electronics
style your taste and preferences
traditional older style
modern more recent style
electronic vehicle cars like a Tesla that don’t run on gasoline
minimalist simple and refined
disparities widen differences get bigger
considering taking into account
youngest generations younger people
even more inclined moreso want to
value importance
virtual world online life
NFTs a form of online product (non-fungible tokens)
cryptocurrencies Bitcoin, Ethereum, etc.
majority most of
major purchases main things being bought
afford be able to buy
evident clear
variety lots of different kinds
ranging from … to including
wellness items products for your health
released published
luxury car nice automobiles
healthy organic products natural items
financial status how much money you have
express show yourself
desires what you want
frugally inexpensively
lack of discretion not inhibitions, concerns, holding back
uninhibited feeling free, not self-conscious
financial concerns money worries
attempt try to
despite nonetheless
clear differences basic divergences
present in living in
financial flexibility ability to buy things
clearest factorinfluencing main elements impacting
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 would argue that an individual’s s___________________________________________________s than other f_____________s. In my opinion, age is r_______________________f a person’s t_______s, however s__________________s is a g____________________r.
Those who would a_______________f age p_____________t how a person’s p_____________s are l____________d. The past several decades have w_________________________s in culture, p__________________________y. A person who grew up before the d____________e is more i_____________d to spend money on books, holidays, furniture, and other n______________l items. The s________e of these items is also likely to be more t________________l and less m_________n. However, someone under the age of 40, is more likely to spend on a new phone, e_____________e such as a Tesla, or clothing and furniture that is more modern and m_________t. These d_____________________n when c__________________g the y______________________s who are e___________________d to v_______e the v________________d through purchases such as N_____s and c_____________________s.
However, for the m___________y of m_______________s, wealth determines what a person can a________d and therefore buy. This is e__________t for a v_________y of products r_______________m food and w______________s __o technology and fashion. For instance, most individuals would love to buy the newest smartphone when it is r_________d, drive in a l_________r and shop for expensive and h________________________s at the supermarket. However, one’s f_____________s will either allow a person to e_______s these d_________s or force them to live f__________y. The best evidence for this is the l_______________n children show when it comes to shopping. They are u_____________d by f___________________s and therefore a___________t to buy whatever they like.
In conclusion, d_________e the c________________s in taste p______________n individuals or different generations, f________________y is the c_______________________g a person’s shopping habits. This has been t______________________y and still r____________________y.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of concerts and plays from the real IELTS exam
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Dave
IELTS Essay: Cigarettes
Smoking is a major cause of serious illness and death throughout the world today. In the interest of the public health, governments should ban cigarettes and other tobacco products.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many today are calling for a complete ban on tobacco related products due to their health effects. In my opinion, since tobacco offers few tangible benefits, such a prohibition would be justified.
Opponents of such a policy argue that it conflicts with individual and economic freedom. Firstly, individuals should have the right to live their life as they wish as long as they are not harming others. This is the basic tenet that underlies most democratic societies and smoking cigarettes falls firmly within this sphere of an individual’s rights. Secondly, there is an economic factor. Tobacco companies produce billions of cigarettes a year, providing employment and paying significant taxes throughout the process. If these companies were suddenly forced to declare bankruptcy and shut down, it would have catastrophic short-term effects on the economies of both developed and developing nations. The economic downsides alone could, temporarily, do more harm than good.
However, tobacco is an almost entirely harmful product in its effects. In contrast to other narcotics, such as caffeine, alcohol, and cannabis, there is no discernible sensation produced by smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco. Tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive and engenders a chemical dependency, and that is the reason it has become such a common habit. Moreover, there are meaningful health problems that for smokers as well as unintended parties through second-hand smoke. It is common for long-time smokers to suffer from a weakened immune system, conditions like emphysema, and increased risk for lung cancer. These maladies place an added burden on the health system and hospitals.
The limited benefits of cigarettes compared with the massive potential health costs for individuals and society justify the ban. Individuals have always had to sacrifice elements of freedom in order to ensure greater security and this issue is only viewed differently for historical reasons.
Analysis
1. Many today are calling for a complete ban on tobacco related products due to their health effects. 2. In my opinion, since tobacco offers few tangible benefits, such a prohibition would be justified.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Opponents of such a policy argue that it conflicts with individual and economic freedom. 2. Firstly, individuals should have the right to live their life as they wish as long as they are not harming others. 3. This is the basic tenet that underlies most democratic societies and smoking cigarettes falls firmly within this sphere of an individual’s rights. 4. Secondly, there is an economic factor. 5. Tobacco companies produce billions of cigarettes a year, providing employment and paying significant taxes throughout the process. 6. If these companies were suddenly forced to declare bankruptcy and shut down, it would have catastrophic short-term effects on the economies of both developed and developing nations. 7. The economic downsides alone could, temporarily, do more harm than good.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
Move on to a related factor if you want.
Develop that idea.
Use complex grammar to help you development.
Conclude the paragraph.
1. However, tobacco is an almost entirely harmful product in its effects. 2. In contrast to other narcotics, such as caffeine, alcohol, and cannabis, there is no discernible sensation produced by smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco. 3. Tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive and engenders a chemical dependency, and that is the reason it has become such a common habit. 4. Moreover, there are meaningful health problems that for smokers as well as unintended parties through second-hand smoke. 5. It is common for long-time smokers to suffer from a weakened immune system, conditions like emphysema, and increased risk for lung cancer. 6. These maladies place an added burden on the health system and hospitals.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
Continue developing it…
as fully as possible!
Conclude a strong statement.
1. The limited benefits of cigarettes compared with the massive potential health costs for individuals and society justify the ban. 2. Individuals have always had to sacrifice elements of freedom in order to ensure greater security and this issue is only viewed differently for historical reasons.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many today are calling for a complete ban on tobacco related products due to their health effects. In my opinion, since tobacco offers few tangible benefits, such a prohibition would be justified.
Opponents of such a policy argue that it conflicts with individual and economic freedom. Firstly, individuals should have the right to live their life as they wish as long as they are not harming others. This is the basic tenet that underlies most democratic societies and smoking cigarettes falls firmly within this sphere of an individual’s rights. Secondly, there is an economic factor. Tobacco companies produce billions of cigarettes a year, providing employment and paying significant taxes throughout the process. If these companies were suddenly forced to declare bankruptcy and shut down, it would have catastrophic short-term effects on the economies of both developed and developing nations. The economic downsides alone could, temporarily, do more harm than good.
However, tobacco is an almost entirely harmful product in its effects. In contrast to other narcotics, such as caffeine, alcohol, and cannabis, there is no discernible sensation produced by smoking cigarettes or chewing tobacco. Tobacco contains nicotine, which is highly addictive and engenders a chemical dependency, and that is the reason it has become such a common habit. Moreover, there are meaningful health problems that for smokers as well asunintended parties through second-hand smoke. It is common for long-time smokers to suffer from a weakened immune system, conditions like emphysema, and increased risk for lung cancer. These maladies place an added burden on the health system and hospitals.
The limited benefits of cigarettes compared with the massive potential health costs for individuals and society justify the ban. Individuals have always had to sacrifice elements of freedom in order to ensure greater security and this issue is only viewed differently for historical reasons.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
calling for asking about
complete ban total prohibition against
tobacco related products cigarettes, chewing tobacco, etc.
tobacco what is inside cigarettes
few tangible benefits concrete advantages
prohibition ban
justified good reason for it
opponents people against it
policy reform
conflicts fights
right a basic ability people should have
as long as so far as
harming hurting
basic tenet essential part
underlies is the foundation of
democratic societies countries where you can vote
falls firmly within this sphere is definitely part of
factor element
produce make
employment jobs
paying significant taxes throughout the process giving money to the government all the time
suddenly forced right now must
declare bankruptcy go out of business
shut down close down, go out of business
catastrophic short-term effects huge impact right away
developed and developing nations rich and poor countries
downsides disadvantages
temporarily for a short time
almost entirely nearly completely
in contrast to however
narcotics drugs
caffeine coffee
alcohol beer, wine, etc.
cannabis marijuana
discernible sensation real feeling
chewing tobacco another kind of tobacco product
contains nicotine has an addictive chemical in it
highly addictive makes you want to keep using it
engenders creates
chemical dependency need to have it
common habit pervasive action
meaningful significant
as well as and
unintended parties people not meant to be involved
second-hand smoke people inhaling smoke who are not smoking, passive smokers
common pervasive
suffer from have the condition
weakened immune system get sick easily
conditions diseases
emphysema a lung disease
increased risk more chance of it
lung cancer cancer of your lungs
maladies illnesses
added burden more pressure
health system and hospitals doctors, medical care, etc.
limited benefits fewer advantages
compared with in comparison to
massive potential health costs huge expense in hospitals
sacrifice give up
in order to do that
ensure make sure
greater security increased safety
viewed differently seen in another way
historical reasons causes from the past, traditions
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many today are c_______________r a c________________n on t_________________________s due to their health effects. In my opinion, since t__________o offers f_______________________s, such a p______________n would be j___________d.
O_____________s of such a p_______y argue that it c__________s with individual and economic freedom. Firstly, individuals should have the r_______t to live their life as they wish a____________s they are not h_______g others. This is the b_____________t that u___________s most d__________________s and smoking cigarettes f_________________________e of an individual’s rights. Secondly, there is an economic f______r. Tobacco companies p_______e billions of cigarettes a year, providing e______________t and p________________________________________s. If these companies were s_______________d to d_____________________y and s___________n, it would have c________________________s on the economies of both d____________________________________s. The economic d______________s alone could, t_____________y, do more harm than good.
However, tobacco is an a_________________y harmful product in its effects. I________________o other n_____________s, such as c__________e, a_____________l, and c__________s, there is no d________________________n produced by smoking cigarettes or c_________________o. Tobacco c____________________e, which is h___________________e and e_____________s a c______________________y, and that is the reason it has become such a c______________t. Moreover, there are meaningful health problems that for smokers a____________su__________________s through s__________________e. It is c_________n for long-time smokers to s______________m a w_________________________m, c______________s like e____________a, and i________________k for l_______________r. These m____________s place an a_______________n on the h______________________________s.
The l________________s of cigarettes c________________h the m__________________________s for individuals and society justify the ban. Individuals have always had to s____________e elements of freedom i____________o e_______________________y and this issue is only v_____________________y for h____________________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:
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