This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of whether or not companies should focus on making sure employees follow a dress code 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: Warnings Not Punishment
In many situations, people who break the law should be warned instead of punished.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some feel that law-breakers ought to be entitled to a warning instead of strict sanctions. I largely disagree with this sentiment as punishment is crucial for society at large.
Those who argue in favor of warnings claim that incarceration encourages a cycle of criminal behavior. For example, if an individual is arrested for a low-level narcotics offense, there is a strong chance the incident will become part of their permanent record. This then makes it more difficult to apply for jobs or seek higher education. If the perpetrator in question also spends time in prison as a result, they may have made connections among the prisoner population. All these factors combine to increase the likelihood of committing crimes in the future since other avenues have become restricted. If the offense is insignificant, the punishment appears to do more harm than good.
Though the policy detailed above is logical for very minor infractions, punishment is needed for most crimes. The various justifications for punishment typically include deterrence, rehabilitation, public safety and justice itself. Of these, deterrence is the most often cited and effective. Most potential criminals do not commit crimes because they are aware of the punishments and this ensures a minimum degree of public safety. If a person knew they would only receive a warning for a more serious infraction, then there would almost undoubtedly be more crime. Even in the case of negligible offenses, stronger punishments that are not part of one’s permanent record would better curb future criminality.
In conclusion, though warnings may be preferable for certain minor crimes, the principle of deterrence justifies punishment. If a system of warnings were combined with other measures, such as improved education and mental health support, this reform would be more feasible.
Analysis
1. Some feel that law-breakers ought to be entitled to a warning instead of strict sanctions. 2. I largely disagree with this sentiment as punishment is crucial for society at large.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who argue in favor of warnings claim that incarceration encourages a cycle of criminal behavior. 2. For example, if an individual is arrested for a low-level narcotics offense, there is a strong chance the incident will become part of their permanent record. 3. This then makes it more difficult to apply for jobs or seek higher education. 4. If the perpetrator in question also spends time in prison as a result, they may have made connections among the prisoner population. 5. All these factors combine to increase the likelihood of committing crimes in the future since other avenues have become restricted. 6. If the offense is insignificant, the punishment appears to 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.
Keep developing it fully.
Extend with some long sentences as well.
Finish this main idea.
1. Though the policy detailed above is logical for very minor infractions, punishment is needed for most crimes. 2. The various justifications for punishment typically include deterrence, rehabilitation, public safety and justice itself. 3. Of these, deterrence is the most often cited and effective. 4. Most potential criminals do not commit crimes because they are aware of the punishments and this ensures a minimum degree of public safety. 5. If a person knew they would only receive a warning for a more serious infraction, then there would almost undoubtedly be more crime. 6. Even in the case of negligible offenses, stronger punishments that are not part of one’s permanent record would better curb future criminality.
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 hypothetical example.
1. In conclusion, though warnings may be preferable for certain minor crimes, the principle of deterrence justifies punishment. 2. If a system of warnings were combined with other measures, such as improved education and mental health support, this reform would be more feasible.
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.
Some feel that law-breakersought to be entitled to a warning instead of strict sanctions. I largely disagree with this sentiment as punishment is crucial for society at large.
Those who argue in favor of warnings claim that incarceration encourages a cycle of criminal behavior. For example, if an individual is arrested for a low-level narcotics offense, there is a strong chance the incident will become part of their permanent record. This then makes it more difficult to apply for jobs or seek higher education. If the perpetrator in question also spends time in prison as a result, they may have made connections among the prisoner population. All these factors combine to increase the likelihood of committing crimes in the future since other avenues have become restricted. If the offense is insignificant, the punishment appears to do more harm than good.
Though the policy detailed above is logical for very minor infractions, punishment is needed for most crimes. The various justifications for punishment typically include deterrence, rehabilitation, public safety and justice itself. Of these, deterrence is the most often cited and effective. Most potential criminals do not commit crimes because they are aware of the punishments and this ensures a minimum degree of public safety. If a person knew they would only receive a warning for a more serious infraction, then there would almost undoubtedly be more crime. Even in the case of negligible offenses, stronger punishments that are not part of one’s permanent record would better curb future criminality.
In conclusion, though warnings may be preferable for certain minor crimes, the principle of deterrence justifies punishment. If a system of warnings were combined with other measures, such as improved education and mental health support, this reform would be more feasible.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
law-breakers criminals
ought to should
entitled deserve to have
warning caution, not a formal punishment
strict sanctions severe punishments
largely mostly
sentiment belief
punishment sanction
crucial important
society at large the public generally
argue claim
in favor of supporting
claim argue
incarceration being in prison
encourages motivates
cycle of criminal behavior people continuing to commit crimes
arrested put in prison
low-level narcotics offense small crime related to drugs
strong chance very likely
incident example
permanent record criminal files
apply for jobs try to get work
seek higher education apply for college, university
perpetrator in question criminal being talked about
spends time in prison be incarcerated
as a result the consequence is that
connections among bonds with
prisoner population people in prison
factors combine elements add up to
increase the likelihood greater chance of
other avenues different routes
restricted limited
offense crime
insignificant not important
punishment appears sanctions seem to be
more harm than good hurts more than it helps
policy detailed above reform mentioned before
logical rational
minor infractions small crimes
justifications rationalizations
typically usually
include have
deterrence make others afraid of committing a crime
rehabilitation improve
public safety guarding society
justice fairness, restoring balance
most often cited usually mentioned
effective works
potential possible
aware know about
ensures guarantees
minimum degree of public safety at least some safety
receive get
infraction breaking the rules
undoubtedly definitely
even in the case of negligible offenses also when they are minor crimes
better curb improved control
future criminality continue to commit crimes
preferable better
principle ethic, idea
justifies makes it a good idea
system programs
combined with other measures put together with other methods
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Some feel that l_________________so___________o be e__________d to a w________g instead of s__________________s. I l__________y disagree with this s_____________t as p_______________t is c_________l for s_________________e.
Those who a________e i______________f warnings c________m that i__________________n e_____________s a c____________________________r. For example, if an individual is a_____________d for a l___________________________e, there is a s_________________e the i_____________t will become part of their p_____________________d. This then makes it more difficult to a_________________s or s______________________n. If the p_____________________n also s_________________________________t, they may have made c_______________________g the p_________________n. All these f___________________e to i_________________________d of committing crimes in the future since o___________________s have become r____________d. If the o__________e is i__________________t, the p___________________s to do m__________________________d.
Though the p_______________________e is l__________l for very m__________________s, punishment is needed for most crimes. The various j_________________s for punishment t____________y i__________e d______________e, r_______________n, p_____________y and j_________e itself. Of these, deterrence is the m________________d and e___________e. Most p____________l criminals do not commit crimes because they are a________e of the punishments and this e___________s a m____________________________y. If a person knew they would only r____________e a warning for a more serious i___________n, then there would almost u______________y be more crime. E____________________________________s, stronger punishments that are not part of one’s permanent record would b_____________________________y.
In conclusion, though warnings may be p____________e for certain minor crimes, the p_____________e of deterrence j____________s punishment. If a s__________m of warnings were c__________________h o___________________s, such as i_______________________n and m_________________________t, this r_________m would be more f_____________e.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic by watching videos from The New York Times YouTube channel below and practice with these activities:
Why do witnesses of crimes sometimes disagree in their accounts?
How can modern technology help solve crimes?
Will teaching children to be honest reduce crime in the future?
Should there be more severe penalties for crimes like libel?
How will the detection of lies change in the future?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:
Some people believe that there should be a fixed punishment for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.
This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of a volcanic island chain from the real IELTS exam.
It is an extremely strange topic so I thought I’d give it a try to help out some students who asked me about it!
Find all the most recent task 1 topics here and my full IELTS Ebooks here.
Dave
IELTS Essay: Volcanic Island Chain in Hawaii
The presented diagram details an island chain in Hawaii located in the Pacific Ocean. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that volcanic formation begins deep under the Earth’s mantle and is visibly the result of multiple eruptions over the years.
Considering first of all the deepest layer buried in solid dense rock (2883 km down), there are vast repositories of magma in a central ‘hot spot’ where spume remains static. The magma spume then rises in a narrow channel and the shifting (7-9cm a year) Pacific tectonic plate to reach the surface and create the least mature volcanoes through multiple eruptions.
The diagram also contains information about Hawaii more specifically including that the oldest volcano was formed 80,000,000 years ago and the major islands include Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Hahoolawa, Maui, and, the largest, Hawaii.
Analysis
1. The presented diagram details an island chain in Hawaii located in the Pacific Ocean. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that volcanic formation begins deep under the Earth’s mantle and is visibly the result of multiple eruptions over the years.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a general over for the process. Include the major changes and group them generally.
1. Considering first of all the deepest layer buried in solid dense rock (2883 km down), there are vast repositories of magma in a central ‘hot spot’ where spume remains static. 2. The magma spume then rises in a narrow channel and the shifting (7-9cm a year) Pacific tectonic plate to reach the surface and create the least mature volcanoes through multiple eruptions.
Begin to describe the diagram fully – for this one just follow the formation of the volcanoes.
Be sure to detail everything fully.
1. The diagram also contains information about Hawaii more specifically including that the oldest volcano was formed 80,000,000 years ago and the major islands include Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Hahoolawa, Maui, and, the largest, Hawaii.
Don’t include any opinion and don’t forget any areas in the diagram.
Try to keep it to 3 paragraphs but if there is an extra detail that is better in another paragraph, that is fine!
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?Take some notes on a piece of paper to aid your memory:
The presented diagram details an island chain in Hawaii located in the Pacific Ocean. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that volcanic formation begins deep under the Earth’s mantle and is visibly the result of multiple eruptionsover the years.
Consideringfirst of all the deepest layer buried in solid dense rock (2883 km down), there are vast repositories of magma in a central ‘hot spot’ where spume remains static. The magma spume then rises in a narrow channel and the shifting (7-9cm a year) Pacific tectonic plate to reach the surface and create the least mature volcanoes through multiple eruptions.
The diagram also contains information about Hawaii more specifically including that the oldest volcano was formed 80,000,000 years ago and the major islands include Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Hahoolawa, Maui, and, the largest, Hawaii.
Answers
Try to write down or think of an antonym/opposite word for further practice:
presented shown
details describes
island chain group of islands
Hawaii an island state in the United States
located found in
Pacific Ocean water between China and the United States
Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall
formation creation
deep under the Earth’s mantle far inside the world
visibly can be seen
result of because of
multiple eruptionsover the years many times the volcano exploded
consideringfirst of all looking initially at
deepest layer fruther down
buried in covered deep in
solid dense rock very hard rock/stone
vast repositories of magma lots of lava
central in the middle
spume a foamy initial form of magma/lava
static unchanging
magma spume before it become lava
then next
rises comes up
narrow channel small passageway
shifting moving
Pacific tectonic plate the discs under the Earth that slide and create earthquakes and eruptions
Remember and fill in the blanks. Note it on a piece of paper so you can remember better:
The p_____________d diagram d_________s an i_________________n in H_________i l_________d in the P____________n. L_______________________________________________t volcanic f____________n begins d_____________________________________e and is v_______y the r__________________________so_________________s.
C_______________________l the d______________r b_____________n s___________________k (2883 km down), there are v____________________________a in a c__________l ‘hot spot’ where s________e remains s________c. The m____________e t____n r_______s in a n_______________l and the s___________g (7-9cm a year) P___________________e to r__________________e and create the l_______________e volcanoes through m___________________s.
The diagram also c_________________n about Hawaii more s_____________y including that the oldest volcano was formed 80,000,000 years ago and the m_______r islands include Niihau, Kauai, Oahu, Molokai, Lanai, Hahoolawa, Maui, and, the l_______t, Hawaii.
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 whether or not companies should focus on making sure employees follow a dress code 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: Employee Dress Code
Some people think employers should not care about the way their employees dress, but the quality at work.
To what extent you agree or disagree?
Many are of the belief that corporations should prioritize quality work over appropriate workplace attire. In my opinion, there are limits to this sentiment; however, it is largely justified as other areas are more crucial to success.
Those in favor of a strict dress code argue that it fosters professionalism. Appearance is important not only for clients and customers but also workers themselves. An employee who dresses well for work is similar to an actor preparing for a performance. The appearance of professionalism is likely engender the same level of diligence to their work. This becomes part of a cycle as customers notice the attention to detail and workers become aware they are essentially performing. The best illustration of this is professions that require uniforms, such as doctors and police officers, and thus fully embody their public role.
However, the quality of the work itself is paramount. In recent years, corporations have relaxed dress codes in recognition of this fact. For example, many technology companies in Silicon Valley including Facebook and Google are famous for a more casual approach to attire. This policy begins with the CEOs and executives who eschew traditional suits for jeans, normal shirts, and comfortable shoes. This signals that the success of a company depends more on the output of their work. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot code or contribute meaningfully to a high-achieving team is in fact a hindrance to success. The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement.
In conclusion, the minor benefits of dress codes for professionalism are outweighed by the recognition of the importance of real work. Companies should therefore strive to uphold values with tangible impact.
Analysis
1. Many are of the belief that corporations should prioritize quality work over appropriate workplace attire. 2. In my opinion, there are limits to this sentiment; however, it is largely justified as other areas are more crucial to success.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those in favor of a strict dress code argue that it fosters professionalism. 2. Appearance is important not only for clients and customers but also workers themselves. 3. An employee who dresses well for work is similar to an actor preparing for a performance. 4. The appearance of professionalism is likely engender the same level of diligence to their work. 5. This becomes part of a cycle as customers notice the attention to detail and workers become aware they are essentially performing. 6. The best illustration of this is professions that require uniforms, such as doctors and police officers, and thus fully embody their public role.
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 long sentences as well.
Finish this main idea.
1. However, the quality of the work itself is paramount. 2. In recent years, corporations have relaxed dress codes in recognition of this fact. 3. For example, many technology companies in Silicon Valley including Facebook and Google are famous for a more casual approach to attire. 4. This policy begins with the CEOs and executives who eschew traditional suits for jeans, normal shirts, and comfortable shoes. 5. This signals that the success of a company depends more on the output of their work. 6. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot code or contribute meaningfully to a high-achieving team is in fact a hindrance to success. 7. The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement.
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 hypothetical example.
Focus back on the topic.
1. In conclusion, the minor benefits of dress codes for professionalism are outweighed by the recognition of the importance of real work. 2. Companies should therefore strive to uphold values with tangible impact.
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 belief that corporations should prioritize quality work over appropriate workplace attire. In my opinion, there are limits to this sentiment; however, it is largely justified as other areas are more crucial to success.
Those in favor of a strict dress codeargue that it fosters professionalism. Appearance is important not only for clients and customers but also workers themselves. An employee who dresses well for work is similar to an actor preparing for a performance. The appearance of professionalism is likely engender the same level of diligence to their work. This becomes part of a cycle as customers notice the attention to detail and workers become aware they are essentially performing. The best illustration of this is professions that require uniforms, such as doctors and police officers, and thus fully embody their public role.
However, the quality of the work itself is paramount. In recent years, corporations have relaxed dress codes in recognition of this fact. For example, many technology companies in Silicon Valley including Facebook and Google are famous for a more casual approach to attire. This policy begins with the CEOs and executives who eschew traditional suits for jeans, normal shirts, and comfortable shoes. This signals that the success of a company depends more on the output of their work. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot code or contribute meaningfully to a high-achieving team is in fact a hindrance to success. The focus on inner qualities and capabilities is reflective of an broader social shift that places less value on factors extrinsic to true achievement.
In conclusion, the minor benefits of dress codes for professionalism are outweighed by the recognition of the importance of real work. Companies should therefore strive to uphold values with tangible impact.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
are of the belief think
corporations companies
prioritize quality work value more how good the work is
appropriate workplace attire professional clothes for work
limits boundaries
sentiment feeling
however but
largely justified mostly give reason for
more crucial to success more important to achievement
in favor of preferring
strict dress code very limited options to wear to work
argue point out
fosters professionalism creates better work
appearance look on the outside
clients customers
customers clients
dresses well wears professional clothes
similar the same
actor preparing person in a show getting ready
performance starring in a show
engender create
same level of diligence similar amount of professionalism
part piece
cycle back and forth circle
notice realize
attention to detail diligence
aware know about
essentially performing basically showing off
best illustration clearest example
require uniforms need clothes
fully embody completely in the role of
public role job in front of others
quality of the work itself how good it is
paramount more important
in recent years the last several years
relaxed calm
recognition knowing about
Silicon Valley place where technology companies are in California
famous for well-known for
casual approach relaxed way
CEOs chief executive officers
executives highly ranking bosses
eschew avoid instead of
traditional suits fancy clothes for work
comfortable shoes sneakers
signals shows
depends more has more to do with
output what is produced
code what must be followed
contribute meaningfully give significance
high-achieving team group that does well normally
in fact actually
hindrance holds back
focus pay attention to
inner qualities characteristics
reflective of mirrors
broader social shift changes within the public
places less value care less about
factors extrinsic to true achievement parts not related to success
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 a___________________f that c______________s should p_______________________k over a____________________________e. In my opinion, there are l______s to this s_____________t; h___________r, it is l________________d as other areas are m________________________s.
Those i_____________f a s_________________ea________e that it f_______________________m. A______________e is important not only for c________s and c____________s but also workers themselves. An employee who d____________l for work is s___________r to an a______________g for a p__________________e. The appearance of professionalism is likely e__________r the s__________________________e to their work. This becomes p_____t of a c_______e as customers n________e the a____________________l and workers become a_____e they are e_________________________g. The b___________________n of this is professions that r__________________s, such as doctors and police officers, and thus f_________________y their p_______________e.
However, the q____________________________f is p______________t. I_________________s, corporations have r_________d dress codes in r_____________n of this fact. For example, many technology companies in S_________________y including Facebook and Google are f______________r a more c________________h to attire. This policy begins with the C_____s and e_______________s who e__________w t________________s for jeans, normal shirts, and c_______________________s. This s________s that the success of a company d____________e on the o_______t of their work. An employee at such a company who dresses well but cannot c____e or c________________________y to a h____________________m is i________t a h____________e to success. The f________s on i____________________s and capabilities is r__________________f an b____________r s______________________t that p_____________________________e on f______________________________________t.
In conclusion, the m________________s of dress codes for professionalism are o____________d by the recognition of the importance of real work. Companies should therefore s_________e to u________________s with t__________________t.
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 whether or not people should focus on reading local or international news 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: News
Some people focus on news in their own country, while others think it is more important to be aware of international news.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Many readers now feel it is more important to stay informed concerning international news items, rather than local ones. In my opinion, though international news can be interesting, local stories contain greater relevance and are therefore more important.
Consumers of international news point out its entertainment value. The majority of people reading news from other countries recognize it has essentially no impact on their own life. However, for many articles from abroad also tend to hold greater appeal. An individual in the United Kingdom, for example, might become bored of local politics and repetitive, provincial stories. There is likely to be more excitement gained in reading about global conflicts, trade disputes, foreign elections, political unrest and environmental catastrophes in distant nations. The reader may not be aware of their own intentions, but these stories are primarily a way to pass the time and be entertained.
However, the entertainment value of international news is less important than relevant local reporting. For example, local news has become essential reading during the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Individuals have little choice but to read articles about the particular strain in their nation, the number of active cases, and the restrictions being urged or mandated by public authorities. If an individual is unaware of such news, they may violate a rule and put themselves and others at risk. The value of local news applies to less pressing emergency situations as well and may include stories about local elections, corruption in politics, crime rates, and various other stories of interest.
In conclusion, despite the value of international news as a source of entertainment, local news should be prioritized given its actual significance. Individuals should strive to ignore as much news as possible and only stay informed about pertinent issues.
Analysis
1. Many readers now feel it is more important to stay informed concerning international news items, rather than local ones. 2. In my opinion, though international news can be interesting, local stories contain greater relevance and are therefore more important.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Consumers of international news point out its entertainment value. 2. The majority of people reading news from other countries recognize it has essentially no impact on their own life. 3. However, for many articles from abroad also tend to hold greater appeal. 4. An individual in the United Kingdom, for example, might become bored of local politics and repetitive, provincial stories. 5. There is likely to be more excitement gained in reading about global conflicts, trade disputes, foreign elections, political unrest and environmental catastrophes in distant nations. 6. The reader may not be aware of their own intentions, but these stories are primarily a way to pass the time and be entertained.
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 long sentences as well.
Finish this main idea.
1. However, the entertainment value of international news is less important than relevant local reporting. 2. For example, local news has become essential reading during the recent Covid-19 pandemic. 3. Individuals have little choice but to read articles about the particular strain in their nation, the number of active cases, and the restrictions being urged or mandated by public authorities. 4. If an individual is unaware of such news, they may violate a rule and put themselves and others at risk. 5. The value of local news applies to less pressing emergency situations as well and may include stories about local elections, corruption in politics, crime rates, and various other stories of interest.
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 value of international news as a source of entertainment, local news should be prioritized given its actual significance. 2. Individuals should strive to ignore as much news as possible and only stay informed about pertinent issues.
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 readers now feel it is more important to stay informed concerning international news items, rather than local ones. In my opinion, though international news can be interesting, local stories contain greater relevance and are therefore more important.
Consumers of international news point out its entertainment value. The majority of people reading news from other countries recognize it has essentially no impact on their own life. However, for many articles from abroad also tend to hold greater appeal. An individual in the United Kingdom, for example, might become bored of local politics and repetitive, provincial stories. There is likely to be more excitement gained in reading about global conflicts, trade disputes, foreign elections, political unrest and environmental catastrophes in distant nations. The reader may not be aware of their own intentions, but these stories are primarily a way to pass the time and be entertained.
However, the entertainment value of international news is less important than relevant local reporting. For example, local news has become essential reading during the recent Covid-19 pandemic. Individuals have little choice but to read articles about the particular strain in their nation, the number of active cases, and the restrictions being urged or mandated by public authorities. If an individual is unaware of such news, they may violate a rule and put themselves and others at risk. The value of local news applies to less pressing emergency situations as well and may include stories about local elections, corruption in politics, crime rates, and various other stories of interest.
In conclusion, despite the value of international news as a source of entertainment, local news should be prioritized given its actual significance. Individuals should strive to ignore as much news as possible and only stay informed about pertinent issues.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
readers people reading the news
stay informed keep up to date
concerning having to do with
international news items newspapers from around the world
rather than instead of
local from your area/country
stories contain articles have
greater relevance more personal importance
therefore thus
consumers people reading
point out argue
entertainment value fun to read
majority most of
recognize notice
essentially no impact basically no effect
articles stories
abroad in other countries
tend to hold greater appeal usually have more importance
the United Kingdom England and nearby countries
local politics government in your country/area
repetitive tedious
provincial related to your area
excitement enjoyment
global conflicts fights around the world
trade disputes conflicts related to economics and trade
foreign elections voting for people in other countries
political unrest problems related to government
environmental catastrophes hurricanes, tsunamis, etc.
distant nations remote countries
aware know about
intentions hopes
primarily mainly
pass the time occupy free time
entertained occupied and interested
relevant local reporting stories near them that matter
essential reading important stories
recent Covid-19 pandemic Coronavirus
have little choice but to no option except to
particular strain specific type
active cases Covid-19 currently circulating
restrictions rules
urged encouraged
mandated ordered
public authorities administrators, politicians, etc.
unaware not aware of
violate break
at risk under threat
applies relates here
less pressing emergency situations as well not such important problems
local elections people in your country voting
corruption crimes in positions of authority
crime rates how much crime there is
various other stories of interest other articles you might want to read
value importance
a source of entertainment place to read/watch stuff
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 readers now feel it is more important to s_________________d c_________________g i_________________________s, r_____________nl____l ones. In my opinion, though international news can be interesting, local s___________________n g_______________________e and are t_____________e more important.
C______________s of international news p__________t its e_________________e. The m_________y of people reading news from other countries r__________e it has e________________________t on their own life. However, for many a___________s from a________d also t_____________________________l. An individual in the U________________m, for example, might become bored of l________________s and r______________e, p___________l stories. There is likely to be more e________________t gained in reading about g________________s, t__________________s, f__________________s, p_______________t and e______________________________s in d______________s. The reader may not be a_______e of their own i_____________s, but these stories are p_____________y a way to p________________e and be e____________d.
However, the entertainment value of international news is less important than r______________________g. For example, local news has become e_________________g during the r_________________________c. Individuals h_____________________________o read articles about the p__________________n in their nation, the number of a_____________s, and the r_____________s being u______d or m__________d by p_________________s. If an individual is u___________e of such news, they may v_______e a rule and put themselves and others a________k. The value of local news a________s to l_____________________________________l and may include stories about l_________________s, c__________________n in politics, c____________s, and v________________________________t.
In conclusion, despite the v______e of international news as a___________________________t, local news should be p_______________d given its a_____________________e. Individuals should s________e to i_______e as much news as possible and only stay informed about p________________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 on the topic of shops from the real IELTS general training exam.
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Dave
IELTS Essay: Shops
There is little difference in the shops now operating in various nations. Some people think this is positive development,while other believe it is negative.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Many people believe that increasing ubiquity in terms of the selection of products in shops is a positive trend. In my opinion, this is a advantageous for convenience, however its wider implications make it a negative overall.
On the positive side, this development guarantees a consistent customer experience. An individual who is traveling abroad, for example, can go into most major convenience stores and find the same basic necessities they would expect in their home country. The products themselves are also more consistent. Since they are manufactured and distributed globally, food products have the same safety standards and tastes and household items are similarly likely to be safe and effective. In contrast, a shop with completely different products, many of which may have been produced locally, complicates the decision-making process for shoppers.
Nonetheless, there is also the risk that corporations will become powerful monopolies. The first implication of this would be that many local shops are likely to go out of business. The local owners of such shops will then be forced to find less desirable work. Replicated globally, this means that profits that were previously directed towards millions of local shop owners are now being funneled to a select number of companies and their shareholders. As these companies become larger and more powerful, it is easier for them to enter new markets, lower prices to dominate the competition, and then establish an unhealthy monopoly.
In conclusion, despite the wide range of consistent options available for consumers, the rise of corporate power is damaging generally. It is therefore important for individual nations to curb this trend when possible.
Analysis
1. Many people believe that increasing ubiquity in terms of the selection of products in shops is a positive trend. 2. In my opinion, this is a advantageous for convenience, however its wider implications make it a negative overall.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. On the positive side, this development guarantees a consistent customer experience. 2. An individual who is traveling abroad, for example, can go into most major convenience stores and find the same basic necessities they would expect in their home country. 3. The products themselves are also more consistent. 4. Since they are manufactured and distributed globally, food products have the same safety standards and tastes and household items are similarly likely to be safe and effective. 5. In contrast, a shop with completely different products, many of which may have been produced locally, complicates the decision-making process for shoppers.
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.
State the results of your ideas.
1. Nonetheless, there is also the risk that corporations will become powerful monopolies. 2. The first implication of this would be that many local shops are likely to go out of business. 3. The local owners of such shops will then be forced to find less desirable work. 4. Replicated globally, this means that profits that were previously directed towards millions of local shop owners are now being funneled to a select number of companies and their shareholders. 5. As these companies become larger and more powerful, it is easier for them to enter new markets, lower prices to dominate the competition, and then establish an unhealthy monopoly.
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 wide range of consistent options available for consumers, the rise of corporate power is damaging generally. 2. It is therefore important for individual nations to curb this trend 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.
Many people believe that increasing ubiquity in terms of the selection of products in shops is a positive trend. In my opinion, this is a advantageous for convenience, however its wider implications make it a negative overall.
On the positive side, this development guarantees a consistent customer experience. An individual who is traveling abroad, for example, can go into most major convenience stores and find the same basic necessities they would expect in their home country. The products themselves are also more consistent. Since they are manufactured and distributed globally, food products have the same safety standards and tastes and household items are similarly likely to be safe and effective. In contrast, a shop with completely different products, many of which may have been produced locally, complicates the decision-making process for shoppers.
Nonetheless, there is also the risk that corporations will become powerful monopolies. The first implication of this would be that many local shops are likely to go out of business. The local owners of such shops will then be forced to find less desirable work. Replicated globally, this means that profits that were previously directed towards millions of local shop owners are now being funneled to a select number of companies and their shareholders. As these companies become larger and more powerful, it is easier for them to enter new markets, lower prices to dominate the competition, and then establish an unhealthy monopoly.
In conclusion, despite the wide range of consistent optionsavailable for consumers, the rise of corporate power is damaging generally. It is therefore important for individual nations to curb this trend when possible.
Answers
For extra practice, write an antonym (opposite word) on a piece of paper to help you remember the new vocabulary:
increasing ubiquity more and more common
in terms of when it comes to
selection choice
products items in a shop
trend pattern
advantageous good
convenience easy
wider implications bigger results
negative overall bad in general
on the positive side the good part is that
development guarantees change makes sure that
consistent customer experience the same products, services available all the time
traveling abroad going to other countries
most major convenience stores 7-Eleven, Circle K, etc.
basic necessities normal items like toilet paper, toothpaste, etc.
expect can predict
home country where you are from
consistent the same all the time
manufactured made
distributed globally sent around the world
safety standards how dangerous they are
tastes how a food product is
household items products you can use at home
similarly likely also probably
effective works well
in contrast however
completely totally
produced locally made in your country
complicates harder to decide
decision-making process thinking about what to buy
shoppers customers
nonetheless regardless
risk threat
powerful monopolies companies that control all of an industry
implication result
local shops shops in your country
go out of business can’t stay open
local owners small businesses
forced have to
less desirable work jobs that are not as good
replicated globallyreproduced around the world
profits money earned
previously directed towards in the past sent to
funneled directed toward
select number some people
shareholders people who own companies
enter new markets get into new countries
dominate take over
competition fighting between companies
establish build
unhealthy monopoly complete control
wide range lots of different types
consistent optionsavailable the same products on sale
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 believe that i_______________________y i_______________f the s___________n of p____________s in shops is a positive t_______d. In my opinion, this is a a_______________s for c________________e, however its w____________________s make it a n_________________l.
O_______________________e, this d__________________________s a c_________________________________e. An individual who is t____________________d, for example, can go into m______________________________s and find the same b________________s they would e________t in their h______________y. The products themselves are also more c_____________t. Since they are m_______________d and d______________________y, food products have the same s___________________s and t_________s and h____________________s are s___________________y to be safe and e___________e. I_____________t, a shop with c_____________y different products, many of which may have been p___________________y, c_________________s the d_________________________s for s__________s.
N______________s, there is also the r____k that corporations will become p_______________________s. The first i_____________n of this would be that many l____________s are likely to g___________________s. The l_____________s of such shops will then be f________d to find l______________________k. R________________________y, this means that p_________s that were p____________________________s millions of local shop owners are now being f_____________d to a s_______________r of companies and their s______________s. As these companies become larger and more powerful, it is easier for them to e___________________s, lower prices to d___________e the c_______________n, and then e______________h an u____________________y.
In conclusion, despite the w____________e of c________________________e for consumers, the r____e of c__________________r is d____________________y. It is therefore important for i_____________________s to c____b this trend 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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