The maps below shows the town of Lynnfield in 1936 and then later in 2007.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
The maps detail changes to a town called Lynnfield between 1936 and 2007. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town became more residential, commercial, and accessible at the expense of natural land, agriculture and smaller shops.
In 1936, to the northwest and northeast of the town were several trees and a river surrounded by untouched land. By 2007, the number of trees had declined and the land around the river became a residential area. To the southwest of the town, a cycling path was turned into a road for cars and on the opposite side of the map a museum and golf course replaced government offices and farm land.
In terms of the center of the town itself, there was a post office, sweet shop and butcher’s in a single row with a lane separating those businesses from the flower shop, bank and library. In 2007, only the bank (slightly expanded in size), library, and post office remained the same. The flower shop had by then been removed in favor of a travel agent, there was a shopping center in the previously unoccupied space between businesses, and the sweet shop and butcher’s were combined and transformed into a large supermarket.
Analysis
1. The maps detail changes to a town called Lynnfield between 1936 and 2007. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town became more residential, commercial, and accessible at the expense of natural land, agriculture and smaller shops.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a general over for the map. Include the major changes and group them generally.
1. In 1936, to the northwest and northeast of the town were several trees and a river surrounded by untouched land. 2. By 2007, the number of trees had declined and the land around the river became a residential area. 3. To the southwest of the town, a cycling path was turned into a road for cars and on the opposite side of the map a museum and golf course replaced government offices and farm land.
Begin to describe the changes.
Be sure to compare as much as possible.
In this one I separated inside and outside the town itself.
1. In terms of the center of the town itself, there was a post office, sweet shop and butcher’s in a single row with a lane separating those businesses from the flower shop, bank and library. 2. In 2007, only the bank (slightly expanded in size), library, and post office remained the same. 3. The flower shop had by then been removed in favor of a travel agent, there was a shopping center in the previously unoccupied space between businesses, and the sweet shop and butcher’s were combined and transformed into a large supermarket.
Switch to another part of the map.
Don’t include any opinion and don’t forget any areas.
Nothing should be left out!
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Take some notes on a piece of paper to aid your memory:
detail show
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall
residential houses, apartments
commercial businesses
accessible can be travelled to easily
expense interest
natural land nature
agriculture farming
smaller shops local businesses
northwest top left
northeast top right
several lots of
surrounded by around
untouched land nature with no developments
declined decreased
to the southwest of the town in the lower left part
cycling path where bikes ride
on the opposite side reversed part
replaced taken the place of
in terms of considering
butcher’s place to buy meat
single row one line
lane separating space keeping apart
slightly expanded in size got a little bigger
remain the same unchanged
removed in favor of taken away so that
previously unoccupied space place where nothing was there before
combined added together
transformed changed
Answers
Try to write down or think of an antonym/opposite word for further practice:
The maps detail changes to a town called Lynnfield between 1936 and 2007. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town became more residential, commercial, and accessible at the expense of natural land, agriculture and smaller shops.
In 1936, to the northwest and northeast of the town were several trees and a river surrounded by untouched land. By 2007, the number of trees had declined and the land around the river became a residential area. To the southwest of the town, a cycling path was turned into a road for cars and on the opposite side of the map a museum and golf course replaced government offices and farm land.
In terms of the center of the town itself, there was a post office, sweet shop and butcher’s in a single row with a lane separating those businesses from the flower shop, bank and library. In 2007, only the bank (slightly expanded in size), library, and post office remained the same. The flower shop had by then been removed in favor of a travel agent, there was a shopping center in the previously unoccupied space between businesses, and the sweet shop and butcher’s were combined and transformed into a large supermarket.
Remember and fill in the blanks. Note it on a piece of paper so you can remember better:
The maps d_______l changes to a town called Lynnfield between 1936 and 2007. L_________________________________________________t the town became more r_____________l, c_____________l, and a___________e at the e________e of n_________d, a__________e and s__________s.
In 1936, to the n___________t and n___________t of the town were s__________l trees and a river s_______________y u___________________d. By 2007, the number of trees had d_________d and the land around the river became a residential area. T__________________________n, a c____________h was turned into a road for cars and o__________________e of the map a museum and golf course r_________d government offices and farm land.
I____________f the center of the town itself, there was a post office, sweet shop and b__________s in a s___________w with a l________________g those businesses from the flower shop, bank and library. In 2007, only the bank (s___________________________e), library, and post office r_____________e. The flower shop had by then been r_____________________f a travel agent, there was a shopping center in the p_________________________e between businesses, and the sweet shop and butcher’s were c__________d and t_____________d into a large supermarket.
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 recycling from the real IELTS general training 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: Recycling
Some say that children should be taught at school to recycling and avoid waste. Others say they should learn this at home.
Discuss both views and give your opinion
Many feel that school, rather than the home, is the optimal environment to teach children about recycling and avoiding excessive waste. In my opinion, though schools can provide ideal social pressure, habits instilled at home are more likely to be long-lasting.
Those who would prioritize the duty of schools in this matter point to social factors. At school, students are first exposed to group dynamics and the expectations placed on them by institutions. Later in life, teachers will become bosses and school will become work. Children are especially vulnerable to the social pressures exerted by teachers and peers. For example, most young students will follow school rules without considering the possibility of disobeying. However, there is a likely turning point that will occur later in one’s schooling that may render progress achieved as a child less effective.
In contrast, the behaviors that a child learns at home can help form their identity. For instance, members of a family are likely to have similar tastes in food, entertainment, and various hobbies. Recycling is simply another habit that can be acquired and maintained over years. A child who reflexively recycles from a very young age will probably continue this action as they get older and learn the solid reasoning behind it. There is a chance that for other rules and habits they may rebel and actively work to change their identity but this is unlikely to occur with recycling since it is universally regarded as positive and progressive.
In conclusion, the home is a superior location to build habits related to recycling because schools often fail to instill lifelong behavioral changes. Therefore, a committed approach by parents is paramount to protecting the environment in the future.
Analysis
1. Many feel that school, rather than the home, is the optimal environment to teach children about recycling and avoiding excessive waste. 2. In my opinion, though schools can provide ideal social pressure, habits instilled at home are more likely to be long-lasting.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who would prioritize the duty of schools in this matter point to social factors. 2. At school, students are first exposed to group dynamics and the expectations placed on them by institutions. 3. Later in life, teachers will become bosses and school will become work. 4. Children are especially vulnerable to the social pressures exerted by teachers and peers. 5. For example, most young students will follow school rules without considering the possibility of disobeying. 6. However, there is a likely turning point that will occur later in one’s schooling that may render progress achieved as a child less effective.
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.
Extend with some short sentences as well.
You can include a concession here!
1. In contrast, the behaviors that a child learns at home can help form their identity. 2. For instance, members of a family are likely to have similar tastes in food, entertainment, and various hobbies. 3. Recycling is simply another habit that can be acquired and maintained over years. 4. A child who reflexively recycles from a very young age will probably continue this action as they get older and learn the solid reasoning behind it. 5. There is a chance that for other rules and habits they may rebel and actively work to change their identity but this is unlikely to occur with recycling since it is universally regarded as positive and progressive.
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, the home is a superior location to build habits related to recycling because schools often fail to instill lifelong behavioral changes. 2. Therefore, a committed approach by parents is paramount to protecting the environment in the future.
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 feel that school, rather than the home, is the optimal environment to teach children about recycling and avoiding excessive waste. In my opinion, though schools can provide ideal social pressure, habits instilled at home are more likely to be long-lasting.
Those who would prioritize the duty of schools in this matter point to social factors. At school, students are first exposed to group dynamics and the expectations placed on them by institutions. Later in life, teachers will become bosses and school will become work. Children are especially vulnerable to the social pressuresexerted by teachers and peers. For example, most young students will follow school rules without considering the possibility of disobeying. However, there is a likely turning point that will occur later in one’s schooling that may render progress achieved as a child less effective.
In contrast, the behaviors that a child learns at home can help form their identity. For instance, members of a family are likely to have similar tastes in food, entertainment, and various hobbies. Recycling is simply another habit that can be acquired and maintained over years. A child who reflexively recycles from a very young age will probably continue this action as they get older and learn the solid reasoning behind it. There is a chance that for other rules and habits they may rebel and actively work to change their identity but this is unlikely to occur with recycling since it is universally regarded as positive and progressive.
In conclusion, the home is a superior location to build habits related to recycling because schools often fail to instill lifelong behavioral changes. Therefore, a committed approach by parents is paramount to protecting the environment in the future.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
rather than instead of
optimal environment best place
recycling using products again – or putting them in bins so they can be processed and used again
avoiding excessive waste not throwing away too much stuff
provide ideal social pressure feel a lot of stress from others
instilled encouraged
long-lasting doesn’t go away for a while
prioritize make most important
duty responsibility
matter issue
point to highlight
social factors elements rated to people around them
exposed open to
expectations placed on them by institutions wishes put on by schools
later in life as they get older
especially vulnerable to really weak to
social pressures anxiety from people aroung you
exerted by forced by
peers fellow students
follow listen to
considering thinking about
possibility chance
disobeying not following rules
turning point change in thinking
occur happen
schooling going to school
render progress achieved make what they have done
effective works well
in contrast however
form their identity make up their personality
members of a family people in your family
tastes likes
acquired gathered
maintained kept up
reflexively instinctively
continue keep on
learn the solid reasoning behind it realize the justifications for it
rebel fight against
actively work make a big effort to
unlikely not much of a chance
universally regarded as worldwide thought ot
progressive forward-thinking
superior location better place
related to having to do with
fail to instill lifelong behavioral changes not make you follow these actions forever
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many feel that school, r_____________n the home, is the o____________________t to teach children about r_________g and a________________________e. In my opinion, though schools can p___________________________e, habits i_________d at home are more likely to be l___________g.
Those who would p____________e the d___y of schools in this m________r p________o s___________s. At school, students are first e___________d to group dynamics and the e_____________________________________s. L______________e, teachers will become bosses and school will become work. Children are e________________________o the s________________________y teachers and p_______s. For example, most young students will f_______w school rules without c_____________g the p___________y of d_____________g. However, there is a likely t_______________t that will o_________r later in one’s s____________g that may r_____________________________d as a child less e______________e.
I________________t, the behaviors that a child learns at home can help f__________________y. For instance, m______________________y are likely to have similar t________s in food, entertainment, and various hobbies. R___________g is simply another habit that can be a___________d and m______________d over years. A child who r___________y recycles from a very young age will probably c____________e this action as they get older and l________________________________t. There is a chance that for other rules and habits they may r________l and a______________k to change their identity but this is u____________y to occur with recycling since it is u__________________y r______________s positive and p________________e.
In conclusion, the home is a s___________n to build habits r__________o recycling because schools often f____________________________________________s. T____________e, a c_________________h by parents is p__________t to p____________g the environment in the future.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:
How do you react when you see litter on the streets?
Do you recycle?
How do you help keep the streets tidy?
What would you do if someone else dropped some litter?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:
Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of the value of the arts 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: Value of the Arts
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?
Many people today continue to value the arts despite a growing emphasis on science and technology. In my opinion, this is because only the arts allow for self-expression and create fundamentally crucial and uplifting truths about humanity.
The first reason the arts continue to be relevant relates to their capacity for self-expression. This is important not only for individuals but also for society at large. For individuals, the ability to express themselves is a crucial element of being fully human and having strong mental health. This explains the popularity of classes for painting, music, and dance as a means of relaxing and expressing one’s thoughts and feelings. In the aggregate, millions of people expressing their viewpoints leads to a plurality of perspectives that can enrich society. For instance, all the most revered periods of human history, such as the Renaissance, were defined by a flourishing of the arts.
Secondly, art has the capacity to create value in a way that science cannot. Although science is capable of making tangible improvements in the lives of individuals, it is unable to impart meaning. In contrast, the arts are interpretations of the world that can uplift and enliven. For example, great filmmakers over the course of the 20th century have explored complex subject matter in classic films such as The Godfather, not only entertaining viewers but also presenting a vision and insightful understanding of American history. If the arts are extended to include the writings and teachings of religious leaders, it is easy to see their impact on values and morality.
In conclusion, the arts still occupy a prominent position in society as they allow for individual self-expression and the creation of ideals. Therefore, it is important that governments continue to fund and support these seemingly less worthwhile pursuits.
Analysis
1. Many people today continue to value the arts despite a growing emphasis on science and technology. 2. In my opinion, this is because only the arts allow for self-expression and create fundamentally crucial and uplifting truths about humanity.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The first reason the arts continue to be relevant relates to their capacity for self-expression. 2. This is important not only for individuals but also for society at large. 3. For individuals, the ability to express themselves is a crucial element of being fully human and having strong mental health. 4. This explains the popularity of classes for painting, music, and dance as a means of relaxing and expressing one’s thoughts and feelings. 5. In the aggregate, millions of people expressing their viewpoints leads to a plurality of perspectives that can enrich society. 6. For instance, all the most revered periods of human history, such as the Renaissance, were defined by a flourishing of the arts.
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.
Extend with some short sentences as well.
State the furthest possible result.
1. Secondly, art has the capacity to create value in a way that science cannot. 2. Although science is capable of making tangible improvements in the lives of individuals, it is unable to impart meaning. 3. In contrast, the arts are interpretations of the world that can uplift and enliven. 4. For example, great filmmakers over the course of the 20th century have explored complex subject matter in classic films such as The Godfather, not only entertaining viewers but also presenting a vision and insightful understanding of American history. 5. If the arts are extended to include the writings and teachings of religious leaders, it is easy to see their impact on values and morality.
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, the arts still occupy a prominent position in society as they allow for individual self-expression and the creation of ideals. 2. Therefore, it is important that governments continue to fund and support these seemingly less worthwhile pursuits.
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 people today continue to value the arts despite a growing emphasis on science and technology. In my opinion, this is because only the arts allow for self-expression and create fundamentally crucial and uplifting truths about humanity.
The first reason the arts continue to be relevant relates to their capacity for self-expression. This is important not only for individuals but also for society at large. For individuals, the ability to express themselves is a crucial element of being fully human and having strong mental health. This explains the popularity of classes for painting, music, and dance as a means of relaxing and expressing one’s thoughts and feelings. In the aggregate, millions of people expressing their viewpoints leads to a plurality of perspectives that can enrich society. For instance, all the most revered periods of human history, such as the Renaissance, were defined by a flourishing of the arts.
Secondly, art has the capacity to create value in a way that science cannot. Although science is capable of making tangible improvements in the lives of individuals, it is unable to impart meaning. In contrast, the arts are interpretations of the world that can uplift and enliven. For example, great filmmakers over the course of the 20th century have explored complex subject matter in classic films such as The Godfather, not only entertaining viewers but also presenting a vision and insightful understanding of American history. If the arts are extended to include the writings and teachings of religious leaders, it is easy to see their impact on values and morality.
In conclusion, the arts still occupy a prominent position in society as they allow for individual self-expression and the creation of ideals. Therefore, it is important that governments continue to fund and support these seemingly less worthwhile pursuits.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
value importance
arts painting, film, poetry, music, literature, fashion, etc.
despite regardless of
growing emphasis more and more importance
allow for self-expression let you show your views and feelings
create fundamentally crucial make very important
uplifting truths interpretations that raise people up
humanity people, mankind
relevant still important
relates to have to do with
capacity ability
self-expression ability to show your thoughts and feelings
society at large everyone
ability capacity
crucial element key part
fully human 100% a person
strong mental health healthy attitude and outlook
explains is the reason for
popularity people like it
as a means of in order to
in the aggregate all combined
viewpoints opinions
leads to creates
a plurality of perspectives many different viewpoints
enrich make better
revered periods of human history best times in the past
the Renaissance period in Italy when the arts flourished
defined characterized by
flourishing doing well
although despite
tangible improvements real developments
unable can’t
impart meaning give purpose
in contrast however
interpretations views
uplift bring up
enliven bring to life
over the course of the 20th century from 1900 – 2000
explored complex subject matter dealt with interesting issues
classic films famous movies
The Godfather an American movie about gangsters
entertaining fun
presenting showing
vision opinion
insightful understanding deep view
extended allowed to include
include to also have
religious leaders Jesus, Buddha, etc.
impact effect
morality ethics
occupy take a place
prominent position important spot
ideals morals
fund give money
support aid
seemingly less worthwhile pursuits ostensibly less important areas
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Many people today continue to v_____e the a____s d_______e a g__________________s on science and technology. In my opinion, this is because only the arts a__________r s_________________n and c___________________________l and u_________________s about h__________y.
The first reason the arts continue to be r_________t r_________o their c__________y for s_____________n. This is important not only for individuals but also for s_________________e. For individuals, the a________y to express themselves is a c____________________t of being f_______________n and having s_____________________h. This e___________s the p___________y of classes for painting, music, and dance a_______________f relaxing and expressing one’s thoughts and feelings. I__________________e, millions of people expressing their v______________s l______________________________s that can e________s society. For instance, all the most r_______________________________y, such as t__________________e, were d_________d by a f____________g of the arts.
Secondly, art has the capacity to create value in a way that science cannot. A_________h science is capable of making t____________________s in the lives of individuals, it is u_________e to i_________________g. I_______________t, the arts are i_________________________s of the world that can u________t and e________n. For example, great filmmakers over the course of the 20th century have e____________________________r in c______________s such as T______________r, not only e______________g viewers but also p_____________g a v_______n and i_____________________g of American history. If the arts are e____________d to i__________e the writings and teachings of r___________________s, it is easy to see their i_________t on values and m__________y.
In conclusion, the arts still o________y a p__________________n in society as they allow for individual self-expression and the creation of i_________s. Therefore, it is important that governments continue to f_____d and s__________t these s_______________________________s.
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 from the general training exam on the topic of father 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: Fathers
Some think that fathers should have time off from work after the birth of a child.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many now suggest that both mothers and fathers deserve leave from work after the birth of a child. In my opinion, though time off work for fathers is not as justified as it is for mothers, this policy is forward-thinking and advisable.
Critics of such a policy claim that there is little physical justification for paternity leave. Few would argue that women should have time off in order to both establish an emotional connection with their child and to recover their physical strength for work. Men, however, do not suffer physical side-effects and therefore do not need time to recuperate before returning to work. They may require a period of time for emotional recovery but this claim is tenuous and difficult to support with clear evidence. Therefore, the norm in most countries is to prioritize workplace productivity and provide little or no contractually obligated paternity leave.
However, fathers need time with their children and spouse to form strong emotional bonds for the good of all family members. In past generations, taking care of children and the home was the domain of mothers and men were defined primarily as earners. The recent shift in society that sees more women entering the workforce also recognizes for the emotional needs of men and its importance for the entire family unit. Research has shown that the single most important element of healthy childhood development is a loving and supportive home environment. The consequence is that fathers are now expected to be more involved in the child-rearing process. By staying home for several weeks or months after birth, they can become more active, helpful participants.
In conclusion, despite the lack of physical justification, paternal leave is crucial for emotional reasons. When possible, governments and employers should advocate and extend this privilege to both parents equally.
Analysis
1. Many now suggest that both mothers and fathers deserve leave from work after the birth of a child. 2. In my opinion, though time off work for fathers is not as justified as it is for mothers, this policy is forward-thinking and advisable.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Critics of such a policy claim that there is little physical justification for paternity leave. 2. Few would argue that women should have time off in order to both establish an emotional connection with their child and to recover their physical strength for work. 3. Men, however, do not suffer physical side-effects and therefore do not need time to recuperate before returning to work. 4. They may require a period of time for emotional recovery but this claim is tenuous and difficult to support with clear evidence. 5. Therefore, the norm in most countries is to prioritize workplace productivity and provide little or no contractually obligated paternity leave.
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.
Extend even more for a higher task achievement mark.
1. However, fathers need time with their children and spouse to form strong emotional bonds for the good of all family members. 2. In past generations, taking care of children and the home was the domain of mothers and men were defined primarily as earners. 3. The recent shift in society that sees more women entering the workforce also recognizes for the emotional needs of men and its importance for the entire family unit. 4. Research has shown that the single most important element of healthy childhood development is a loving and supportive home environment. 5. The consequence is that fathers are now expected to be more involved in the child-rearing process. 6. By staying home for several weeks or months after birth, they can become more active, helpful participants.
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!
Relate back to the overall topic.
1. In conclusion, despite the lack of physical justification, paternal leave is crucial for emotional reasons. 2. When possible, governments and employers should advocate and extend this privilege to both parents equally.
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 now suggest that both mothers and fathers deserve leave from work after the birth of a child. In my opinion, though time off work for fathers is not as justified as it is for mothers, this policy is forward-thinking and advisable.
Critics of such a policy claim that there is little physical justification for paternity leave. Few would argue that women should have time off in order to both establish an emotional connection with their child and to recover their physical strength for work. Men, however, do not suffer physical side-effects and therefore do not need time to recuperate before returning to work. They may require a period of time for emotional recovery but this claim is tenuous and difficult to support with clear evidence. Therefore, the norm in most countries is to prioritize workplace productivity and provide little or no contractually obligated paternity leave.
However, fathers need time with their children and spouse to form strong emotional bonds for the good of all family members. In past generations, taking care of children and the home was the domain of mothers and men were defined primarily as earners. The recent shift in society that sees more women entering the workforce also recognizes for the emotional needs of men and its importance for the entire family unit. Research has shown that the single most important element ofhealthy childhood development is a loving and supportive home environment. The consequence is that fathers are now expected to be more involved in the child-rearing process. By staying home for several weeks or months after birth, they can become more active, helpful participants.
In conclusion, despite the lack of physical justification, paternal leave is crucial for emotional reasons. When possible, governments and employers should advocate and extend this privilege to both parents equally.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
suggest advise
deserve should get
leave from work not have to work for a while
birth of a child when a kid is born
time off work paid leave
is not as justified as it is for not as much of a reason for
policy idea
forward-thinking progressive
advisable good idea
critics people who are against this idea
policy claim idea argue that
little physical justification not much reason for it based on the body
paternity leave time off work for fathers
argue claim
in order to so that
establish create
emotional connection interpersonal relationship
recover get better
physical strength body health
suffer physical side-effects weakened body
therefore thus
recuperate recover, get better
returning going back
require need
period space of time
emotional recovery feeling better mentally
claim argue
tenuous not strong
support reason for
clear evidence good support
norm normal practice
prioritize workplace productivity consider the company more important
provide little not give much
contractually obligated have to do because of what the contract says
spouse wife/husband
form strong emotional bonds have a good relationship with
family members people in the family
in past generations years before
taking care of children looking after kids
domain control over
defined primarily as earners just make money
recent shift new change
entering going into
workforce being employed
recognizes notices
emotional needs mental requirements
importance relevance
entire family unit whole family
research has shown that studies indicate that
single most important element of the biggest part of
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 now s__________t that both mothers and fathers d_______e l________________k after the b______________d. In my opinion, though t_____________k for fathers i_________________________r mothers, this p________y is f_____________g and a_____________e.
C_______s of such a p___________m that there is l_________________________n for p________________e. Few would a______e that women should have time off i______________o both e__________h an e___________________n with their child and to r________r their p_____________________h for work. Men, however, do not s_________________________s and t__________e do not need time to r____________e before r____________g to work. They may r__________e a p________d of time for e______________y but this c_______m is t_________s and difficult to s________t with c_______________e. Therefore, the n_____m in most countries is to p________________________________y and p_____________e or no c_____________________d paternity leave.
However, fathers need time with their children and s________e to f__________________________s for the good of all f__________________s. I___________________s, t_________________________n and the home was the d__________n of mothers and men were d______________________________s. The r______________t in society that sees more women e_____________g the w_____________e also r______________s for the e_________________s of men and its i_____________e for the e_________________t. R______________________t the s__________________________________fh_______________________________t is a l__________g and s_____________________________________t. The c_____________e is that fathers are now e______________d to be more i__________d in the c________________________s. By staying home for several weeks or months after birth, they can become more a_________e, h_________________________s.
In conclusion, d____________e the l_____k of physical justification, paternal leave is crucial for emotional reasons. W_____________e, governments and e____________s should a_____________e and e____________d this p___________e to both parents equally.
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 traditional clothing and influcence of western fashion 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: Traditional Clothing
In many countries, people now wear western-style dress such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing.
Why is this?
Is this a positive or negative development?
It has become increasingly common in recent years for individuals globally to dress in western-influenced clothing. In my opinion, this is a natural result of corporate and cultural globalization and is broadly negative.
The main cause of this phenomenon is globalization. This relates firstly to culture. The growth of the media industry generally and online media more specifically has spread primarily American cultural values. Individuals living in distant nations watch the latest blockbuster Hollywood movies, listen to the same singers and emulate their lifestyle choices including fashion. Secondly, mass production enables this homogeneity. Hundreds of years ago, consumers had no choice other than to buy clothes produced by local artisans. Now, companies like Louis Vuitton and Tommy Hilfiger can fabricate identical items of clothing to be shipped globally at affordable prices, forcing many local businesses into bankruptcy.
The positive side of this trend, lower prices and potential inspiration from western fashion, are largely overshadowed by the injurious impact on cultural diversity. For example, in many parts of Asia, there are the rich cultural traditions of various ethnic minorities. These skilled garment-makers follow traditions dating back hundreds of years. The clothing produced is not only beautiful, but also more environmentally friendly and unique. However, these days few local residents are interested as they prefer wealthy western fashion brands that showcase their social status. The result is that the values being espoused by fashion are material wealth and appearances rather than tradition, culture, and artistic skill.
In conclusion, western fashion trends are ubiquitous today due to the effects of globalization and this represents a negative shift in values. Individuals should therefore strive to ignore these trends and purchase clothes that express their culture better when possible.
Analysis
1. It has become increasingly common in recent years for individuals globally to dress in western-influenced clothing. 2. In my opinion, this is a natural result of corporate and cultural globalization and is broadly negative.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. The main cause of this phenomenon is globalization. 2. This relates firstly to culture. 3. The growth of the media industry generally and online media more specifically has spread primarily American cultural values. 4. Individuals living in distant nations watch the latest blockbuster Hollywood movies, listen to the same singers and emulate their lifestyle choices including fashion. 5. Secondly, mass production enables this homogeneity. 6. Hundreds of years ago, consumers had no choice other than to buy clothes produced by local artisans. 7. Now, companies like Louis Vuitton and Tommy Hilfiger can fabricate identical items of clothing to be shipped globally at affordable prices, forcing many local businesses into bankruptcy.
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.
Extend with some short sentences as well.
State the furthest possible result.
The more you can add, the higher your task achievement score.
1. The positive side of this trend, lower prices and potential inspiration from western fashion, are largely overshadowed by the injurious impact on cultural diversity. 2. For example, in many parts of Asia, there are the rich cultural traditions of various ethnic minorities. 3. These skilled garment-makers follow traditions dating back hundreds of years. 4. The clothing produced is not only beautiful, but also more environmentally friendly and unique. 5. However, these days few local residents are interested as they prefer wealthy western fashion brands that showcase their social status. 6. The result is that the values being espoused by fashion are material wealth and appearances rather than tradition, culture, and artistic skill.
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!
Continue the example.
1. In conclusion, western fashion trends are ubiquitous today due to the effects of globalization and this represents a negative shift in values. 2. Individuals should therefore strive to ignore these trends and purchase clothes that express their culture better when possible.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
It has become increasingly common in recent years for individuals globally to dress in western-influenced clothing. In my opinion, this is a natural result ofcorporate and cultural globalization and is broadly negative.
The main cause of this phenomenon is globalization. This relates firstly to culture. The growth of the media industry generally and online media more specifically has spread primarily American cultural values. Individuals living in distant nations watch the latest blockbuster Hollywood movies, listen to the same singers and emulate their lifestyle choices including fashion. Secondly, mass production enables this homogeneity. Hundreds of years ago, consumers had no choice other than to buy clothes produced by local artisans. Now, companies like Louis Vuitton and Tommy Hilfiger can fabricate identical items of clothing to be shipped globally at affordable prices, forcing many local businesses into bankruptcy.
The positive side of this trend, lower prices and potential inspiration from western fashion, are largely overshadowed by the injurious impact on cultural diversity. For example, in many parts of Asia, there are the rich cultural traditions of various ethnic minorities. These skilled garment-makersfollow traditions dating back hundreds of years. The clothing produced is not only beautiful, but also more environmentally friendly and unique. However, these days few local residents are interested as they prefer wealthy western fashion brands that showcase their social status. The result is that the values being espoused by fashion are material wealth and appearances rather thantradition, culture, and artistic skill.
In conclusion, western fashion trends are ubiquitous today due to the effects of globalization and this represents a negative shift in values. Individuals should therefore strive to ignore these trends and purchase clothes that express their culture better when possible.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
increasingly common more and more pervasive
globally around the world
dress clothing
western-influenced clothing clothes from America, Europe
natural result of logical consequence of
corporate companies, business
cultural globalization cultures becoming the same around the world
broadly negative mostly bad
main cause primary catalyst
phenomenon development
relates firstly has to do with first of all
growth development
media industry news, websites, etc.
generally overall
online media websites, social media, etc.
more specifically in detail
spread primarily sent out mostly
cultural values traditions
distant nations far away countries
latest blockbuster Hollywood movies big movies from America
singers musicians
emulate copy
lifestyle choices decisions about how someone lives
fashion clothing
mass production making lots of something through factories
enables allows for
homogeneity all the same
hundreds of years ago since before the 1800s
consumers people buying things
produced by local artisans made by artists from this country
fabricate identical items of clothing create the same piece of fashion
shipped globally sent around the world
affordable prices cheap
forcing making
local businesses companies from this country
bankruptcy being driven out of business
positive side beneficial part
lower prices cheaper
potential inspiration possible influence
largely overshadowed mostly stronger than
injurious impact bad effect
cultural diversity different kinds of culture
rich cultural traditions important arts and crafts and fashions from the past
ethnic minorities groups of people
skilled garment-makers good tailors
follow traditions dating back hundreds use old techniques
not only … but also including
environmentally friendly good for nature
unique special
residents people living there
interested care about
prefer like better
wealthy western fashion brands famous clothing makers
showcase demonstrate
social status how you are regarded by other people
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:
It has become i__________________________n in recent years for individuals g_____________y to d_____s in w__________________________g. In my opinion, this is a n___________________fc_____________e and c___________________n and is b__________________e.
The m______________e of this p_____________n is globalization. This r_________________y to culture. The g__________h of the m________________________________y and o__________________a m_______________________y has s______________________y American c__________________________s. Individuals living in d_______________s watch the l__________________________________s, listen to the same s___________s and e____________e their l____________________s including f____________n. Secondly, m____________________n e___________s this h_________________y. H________________o, c_______________s had no choice other than to buy clothes p__________________________s. Now, companies like Louis Vuitton and Tommy Hilfiger can f_________________________________g to be s____________________y at a____________________s, f________________g many l__________________s into b__________y.
The p_________________e of this trend, l______________s and p________________________n from western fashion, are l_________________________d by the i______________________t on c__________________________y. For example, in many parts of Asia, there are the r_________________________s of various e_____________________s. These s______________________sf______________________s d_______________________s of years. The clothing produced is n_________y beautiful, b_________o more e________________________y and u__________e. However, these days few local r______________s are i_______________d as they p_________r w_________________________________s that s_____________e their s__________________s. The r__________t is that the v_________s being e_______________d by fashion are m_________________h and a_____________________s r_________________nt_____________n, culture, and a_______________l.
In conclusion, western fashion trends are u_______________s today d_______o the effects of globalization and this r____________s a n___________________s. Individuals should t_______________e to i__________e these trends and p__________e clothes that e_________s their culture better w____________e.
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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