IELTS Essay: Freedom to Make Mistakes

IELTS Essay: Freedom to Make Mistakes

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of freedom to make mistakes 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: Freedom to Make Mistakes

Some people think children should have the freedom to make mistakes, while other people believe that adults should prevent children from making mistakes.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Some are of the opinion that children should be allowed to make mistakes, while others feel that adults should take a preventative approach. In my opinion, there are limits but it is nonetheless essential for healthy development to permit children their errors.

Proponents of reduced freedom for children argue that mistakes can lead to a pattern of misbehavior. This argument is often advanced by over-protective parents who believe human nature naturally trends toward anti-social activity. For example, a child who is mean to classmates and performs poorly in academics and athletics will only continue this behavior if enabled by understanding adults. To counter the child’s wayward impulses, parents should instead either punish or reward in order to motivate more socially acceptable behavior. The theory is that children will then recognize the boundaries set by parents and society and later fit into the adult world as well-functioning members.

Regardless, a sense of autonomy is crucial to mature development. Children who are shielded from making mistakes often lack the skills that encourage healthy growth. The majority of learning, for instance, is achieved through mistakes. A child who is learning a sport makes mistake after mistake but does it with a positive attitude and eventually improves. Later in life, the attitude may become more negative but the process remains the same for all disciplines, private and public. Parents and other adults must therefore seek to impart unconditional support and ensure children do not develop self-esteem problems based on their mistakes. This approach of fostering a cheerful self-sufficiency will serve them best throughout life.

In conclusion, although some adults may feel that are preventing children from making mistakes for the public good, they are in fact doing great harm to their child’s mental well-being. If larger segments of society accept this perspective, it will benefit all of society.

Analysis

1. Some are of the opinion that children should be allowed to make mistakes, while others feel that adults should take a preventative approach. 2. In my opinion, there are limits but it is nonetheless essential for healthy development to permit children their errors.

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

1. Proponents of reduced freedom for children argue that mistakes can lead to a pattern of misbehavior. 2. This argument is often advanced by over-protective parents who believe human nature naturally trends toward anti-social activity. 3. For example, a child who is mean to classmates and performs poorly in academics and athletics will only continue this behavior if enabled by understanding adults. 4. To counter the child’s wayward impulses, parents should instead either punish or reward in order to motivate more socially acceptable behavior. 5. The theory is that children will then recognize the boundaries set by parents and society and later fit into the adult world as well-functioning members.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Finish this main idea.

1. Regardless, a sense of autonomy is crucial to mature development. 2. Children who are shielded from making mistakes often lack the skills that encourage healthy growth. 3. The majority of learning, for instance, is achieved through mistakes. 4. A child who is learning a sport makes mistake after mistake but does it with a positive attitude and eventually improves. 5. Later in life, the attitude may become more negative but the process remains the same for all disciplines, private and public. 6. Parents and other adults must therefore seek to impart unconditional support and ensure children do not develop self-esteem problems based on their mistakes. 7. This approach of fostering a cheerful self-sufficiency will serve them best throughout life.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Continue developing it…
  5. as fully as possible!
  6. This paragraph can be long.
  7. Finish with a strong statement.

1. In conclusion, although some adults may feel that are preventing children from making mistakes for the public good, they are in fact doing great harm to their child’s mental well-being. 2. If larger segments of society accept this perspective, it will benefit all of society.

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

Vocabulary

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

Some are of the opinion that children should be allowed to make mistakes, while others feel that adults should take a preventative approach. In my opinion, there are limits but it is nonetheless essential for healthy development to permit children their errors.

Proponents of reduced freedom for children argue that mistakes can lead to a pattern of misbehavior. This argument is often advanced by over-protective parents who believe human nature naturally trends toward anti-social activity. For example, a child who is mean to classmates and performs poorly in academics and athletics will only continue this behavior if enabled by understanding adults. To counter the child’s wayward impulses, parents should instead either punish or reward in order to motivate more socially acceptable behavior. The theory is that children will then recognize the boundaries set by parents and society and later fit into the adult world as well-functioning members.

Regardless, a sense of autonomy is crucial to mature development. Children who are shielded from making mistakes often lack the skills that encourage healthy growth. The majority of learning, for instance, is achieved through mistakes. A child who is learning a sport makes mistake after mistake but does it with a positive attitude and eventually improves. Later in life, the attitude may become more negative but the process remains the same for all disciplines, private and public. Parents and other adults must therefore seek to impart unconditional support and ensure children do not develop self-esteem problems based on their mistakes. This approach of fostering a cheerful self-sufficiency will serve them best throughout life.

In conclusion, although some adults may feel that are preventing children from making mistakes for the public good, they are in fact doing great harm to their child’s mental well-being. If larger segments of society accept this perspective, it will benefit all of society.

Answers

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

are of the opinion believe

allowed are able to

mistakes errors

take a preventative approach want to stop it from happening at all

limits boundaries

nonetheless regardless

essential crucial

healthy development good for you

permit allow

errorsmistakes

proponents people who support

reduced less

lead to a pattern of misbehavior keep making mistakes in the future

argument debate

advanced developed

over-protective parents parents who try too hard to keep their kids safe

human nature how people are naturally

naturally trends toward of course leads to

anti-social activity not following the rules of society

mean not nice

classmates students in the same class

performs poorly does badly

academics school subjects

athletics sports

behavior how a person acts

enabled encouraged

understanding sympathy

counter fight against

wayward impulses bad desires

punish hit, reprimand

reward positive reinforcement

in order to so as to

socially acceptable behavior what the world allows you to do

theory idea

recognize start to notice

boundaries set by limits laid down by

fit into become part of

well-functioning members normal people

regardless nonetheless

sense of autonomy feeling of independence

crucial important

mature development sophisticated growing up

shielded from protected from

lack don’t have

encourage healthy growth help you grow up well

majority most of

achieved got to the point

mistake after mistake keep messing up

positive attitude good outlook

eventually improves in the long run helps

later in life as you get older

negative not positive

process way of doing something

remains the same doesn’t change

disciplines skills, jobs

private personal

public around others

therefore thus

seek to impart hopes to give

unconditional support no strings love

ensure make sure

develop self-esteem problems feel bad about themselves

based on comes from

approach way of doing something

fostering encouraging

cheerful self-sufficiency happy independence

throughout life your whole life

preventing stopping

public good for all of society

in fact actually

doing great harm hurting

mental well-being psychological health

larger segments more parts of

society accept the world believe in

perspective viewpoint

benefit get something from

Pronunciation

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

ɑːr ɒv ði əˈpɪnjən 
əˈlaʊd 
mɪsˈteɪks
teɪk ə prɪˈvɛntɪv əˈprəʊʧ
ˈlɪmɪts 
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs 
ɪˈsɛnʃəl 
ˈhɛlθi dɪˈvɛləpmənt 
ˈpɜːmɪt 
ˈɛrəz
prəˈpəʊnənts 
rɪˈdjuːst
liːd tuː ə ˈpætən ɒv ˌmɪsbɪˈheɪvjə
ˈɑːgjʊmənt 
ədˈvɑːnst 
ˈəʊvə-prəˈtɛktɪv ˈpeərənts 
ˈhjuːmən ˈneɪʧə 
ˈnæʧrəli trɛndz təˈwɔːd
ˈænti-ˈsəʊʃəl ækˈtɪvɪti
miːn 
ˈklɑːsmeɪts 
pəˈfɔːmz ˈpʊəli 
ˌækəˈdɛmɪks 
æθˈlɛtɪks 
bɪˈheɪvjə 
ɪˈneɪbld 
ˌʌndəˈstændɪŋ 
ˈkaʊntə 
ˈweɪwəd ˈɪmpʌlsɪz
ˈpʌnɪʃ 
rɪˈwɔːd 
ɪn ˈɔːdə tuː 
ˈsəʊʃəli əkˈsɛptəbl bɪˈheɪvjə
ˈθɪəri 
ˈrɛkəgnaɪz 
ˈbaʊndəriz sɛt baɪ 
fɪt ˈɪntuː 
wɛl-ˈfʌŋkʃənɪŋ ˈmɛmbəz
rɪˈgɑːdlɪs
sɛns ɒv ɔːˈtɒnəmi 
ˈkruːʃəl 
məˈtjʊə dɪˈvɛləpmənt
ˈʃiːldɪd frɒm 
læk 
ɪnˈkʌrɪʤ ˈhɛlθi grəʊθ
məˈʤɒrɪti 
əˈʧiːvd 
mɪsˈteɪk ˈɑːftə mɪsˈteɪk 
ˈpɒzətɪv ˈætɪtjuːd 
ɪˈvɛnʧəli ɪmˈpruːvz
ˈleɪtər ɪn laɪf
ˈnɛgətɪv 
ˈprəʊsɛs 
rɪˈmeɪnz ðə seɪm 
ˈdɪsɪplɪnz
ˈpraɪvɪt 
ˈpʌblɪk
ˈðeəfɔː 
siːk tuː ɪmˈpɑːt 
ˌʌnkənˈdɪʃənl səˈpɔːt 
ɪnˈʃʊə 
dɪˈvɛləp sɛlf-ɪsˈtiːm ˈprɒbləmz 
beɪst ɒn 
əˈprəʊʧ 
ˈfɒstərɪŋ 
ˈʧɪəfʊl sɛlf-səˈfɪʃənsi 
θru(ː)ˈaʊt laɪf
prɪˈvɛntɪŋ 
ˈpʌblɪk gʊd
ɪn fækt 
ˈdu(ː)ɪŋ greɪt hɑːm 
ˈmɛntl wɛl-ˈbiːɪŋ
ˈlɑːʤə ˈsɛgmənts 
səˈsaɪəti əkˈsɛpt 
pəˈspɛktɪv
ˈbɛnɪfɪt 

Vocabulary Practice

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

Some a_____________________n that children should be a_________d to make m___________s, while others feel that adults should t_____________________________h. In my opinion, there are l________s but it is n______________s e______________l for h____________________t to p_________t children their e_______s.

P___________s of r__________d freedom for children argue that mistakes can l_________________________________r. This a___________t is often a____________d by o___________________________s who believe h_____________e n____________y t_________________d a____________________y. For example, a child who is m____n to c___________s and p_________________y in a____________s and a____________s will only continue this b__________r if e________d by u_________________g adults. To c__________r the child’s w___________________s, parents should instead either p__________h or r_______d i___________o motivate more s_____________________________r. The t_______y is that children will then r___________e the b________________y parents and society and later f________o the adult world as w________________________s.

R___________s, a s_____________________y is c_________l to m_____________________t. Children who are s_____________m making mistakes often l_____k the skills that e________________________h. The m__________y of learning, for instance, is a___________d through mistakes. A child who is learning a sport makes m___________________e but does it with a p________________________e and e__________________s. L_____________e, the attitude may become more n___________e but the p__________s r_________________e for all d___________s, p___________e and p________c. Parents and other adults must t_____________e s___________________t u___________________t and e_________e children do not d________________________________n their mistakes. This a_____________h of f_____________g a c_____________________y will serve them best t_____________________e.

In conclusion, although some adults may feel that are p______________g children from making mistakes for the p____________d, they are i_______t d__________________m to their child’s m________________g. If l_________________s of s________________t this p____________e, it will b________t all of society.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

https://www.cnbc.com/2021/03/24/common-grammar-mistakes-that-make-people-cringe-and-make-you-look-less-smart-word-experts.html

Speaking Practice

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

Playing

  1. When you were a child, where did you like to play?
  2. Did you prefer playing indoors or outdoors?
  3. What kinds of games did you play?
  4. Do kids benefit more from playing outside?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

It is better for children if the whole family including aunts, uncles and so on are involved in a child’s upbringing, rather than just their parents.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay Task 1: Urban and Rural Population Trends

IELTS Essay Task 1: Urban and Rural Population Trends

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of urban and rural population trends and trends in age structure from the real IELTS exam.

Find all the most recent task 1 topics here and my full IELTS Ebooks here.

Dave

IELTS Essay Task 1: Urban and Rural Population Trends

The bar chart illustrates population trends globally by percentage from 1950 to 2040.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

The line charts detail population trends relating to location and age globally from 1950 until 2040. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that urban populations have and will continue to constitute the majority of growth. In terms of age demographics, those 15-65 have become by far the largest group and this is predicted to remain the same in the future.

Turning first to urban residency in 1950, this figure began the period at 6%, just 1% above the statistic for the rural population. Over the ensuing years, urban numbers soared, rising by approximately 5% each decade until the present day. This trend is anticipated to continue and urban occupants should represent just under 40% by 2040. In contrast, rural populations were largely steady, increasing under a percentage point every 10 years and anticipated to reach 6% in 2040. The growth in total figures roughly mirror urban percentages but are 5-10% higher throughout.

The age distribution indicates clearly that those 15-65 (beginning at 6% in 1950) will become most common, rising close to 5% each decade with a likely high point of 35% by the end of the period surveyed. Those under 15 and over 65 display a broadly similar pattern at around 5% for the majority of the time described.

Analysis

1. The line charts detail population trends relating to location and age globally from 1950 until 2040. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that urban populations have and will continue to constitute the majority of growth. 3. In terms of age demographics, those 15-65 have become by far the largest group and this is predicted to remain the same in the future.

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

1. Turning first to urban residency in 1950, this figure began the period at 6%, just 1% above the statistic for the rural population. 2. Over the ensuing years, urban numbers soared, rising by approximately 5% each decade until the present day. 3. This trend is anticipated to continue and urban occupants should represent just under 40% by 2040. 4. In contrast, rural populations were largely steady, increasing under a percentage point every 10 years and anticipated to reach 6% in 2040. 5. The growth in total figures roughly mirror urban percentages but are 5-10% higher throughout.

  1. Begin writing about the data for the first category.
  2. Continue describing it.
  3. Keep describing the data.
  4. Compare to the other lines.
  5. Make sure everything is detailed.

1. The age distribution indicates clearly that those 15-65 (beginning at 6% in 1950) will become most common, rising close to 5% each decade with a likely high point of 35% by the end of the period surveyed. 2. Those under 15 and over 65 display a broadly similar pattern at around 5% for the majority of the time described.

  1. Write about the final other parts of the line graph – include everything!
  2. There is a lot of data in this one but try to get to all of it.

Vocabulary

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

The line charts detail population trends relating to location and age globally from 1950 until 2040. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that urban populations have and will continue to constitute the majority of growth. In terms of age demographics, those 15-65 have become by far the largest group and this is predicted to remain the same in the future.

Turning first to urban residency in 1950, this figure began the period at 6%, just 1% above the statistic for the rural population. Over the ensuing years, urban numbers soared, rising by approximately 5% each decade until the present day. This trend is anticipated to continue and urban occupants should represent just under 40% by 2040. In contrast, rural populations were largely steady, increasing under a percentage point every 10 years and anticipated to reach 6% in 2040. The growth in total figures roughly mirror urban percentages but are 5-10% higher throughout.

The age distribution indicates clearly that those 15-65 (beginning at 6% in 1950) will become most common, rising close to 5% each decade with a likely high point of 35% by the end of the period surveyed. Those under 15 and over 65 display a broadly similar pattern at around 5% for the majority of the time described.

Answers

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

detail illustrate

population trends patterns for how many people

globally around the world

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

constitute make up

majority most of

growth increase

In terms of when it comes to

demographics groups of people

by far a lot more than

predicted expected to

remain stay the same

in the future later

turning first to considering firstly

residency living there

figure number

period time given

above over

statistic figure

over the ensuing years during the next span of time

soared increased a lot

rising increasing

approximately around

each decade every 10 years

until the present day up until now

anticipated predicted

continue keep going

occupants people living there

represent stand for

largely steady mostly unchanged

under a percentage point every 10 years less than 1% each decade

anticipated expected

reach get to

roughly mirror almost the same as

higher throughout above it the whole time

distribution how it is spread out

indicates clearly shows definitely

common ubiquitous

with a likely high point of probably reaching the top at

by the end of the period surveyed for the whole time detailed

display a broadly similar pattern has almost the same trend

majority most of

described shown

Pronunciation

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

ˈdiːteɪl 
ˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən trɛndz 
ˈgləʊbəli 
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt ˈɜːbən 
ˈkɒnstɪtjuːt 
məˈʤɒrɪti 
grəʊθ
ɪn tɜːmz ɒv 
ˌdɛməˈgræfɪks
baɪ fɑː 
prɪˈdɪktɪd 
rɪˈmeɪn 
ɪn ðə ˈfjuːʧə
ˈtɜːnɪŋ fɜːst tuː 
ˈrɛzɪdənsi 
ˈfɪgə 
ˈpɪərɪəd 
əˈbʌv 
stəˈtɪstɪk 
ˈəʊvə ði ɪnˈsjuːɪŋ jɪəz
sɔːd
ˈraɪzɪŋ 
əˈprɒksɪmɪtli 
iːʧ ˈdɛkeɪd 
ənˈtɪl ðə ˈprɛznt deɪ
ænˈtɪsɪpeɪtɪd 
kənˈtɪnju(ː) 
ˈɒkjʊpənts 
ˌrɛprɪˈzɛnt 
ˈlɑːʤli ˈstɛdi
ˈʌndər ə pəˈsɛntɪʤ pɔɪnt ˈɛvri tenjɪəz 
ænˈtɪsɪpeɪtɪd 
riːʧ 
ˈrʌfli ˈmɪrə 
ˈhaɪə θru(ː)ˈaʊt
ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən 
ˈɪndɪkeɪts ˈklɪəli 
ˈkɒmən
wɪð ə ˈlaɪkli haɪ pɔɪnt ɒv 
baɪ ði ɛnd ɒv ðə ˈpɪərɪəd sɜːˈveɪd
dɪsˈpleɪ ə ˈbrɔːdli ˈsɪmɪlə ˈpætən 
məˈʤɒrɪti 
dɪsˈkraɪbd

Vocabulary Practice

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

The line charts d_______l p_____________________s relating to location and age g___________y from 1950 until 2040. L_________________________________________________t u_______n populations have and will continue to c____________e the m_________y of g_______h. I_________________f age d_____________s, those 15-65 have become b_____r the largest group and this is p__________d to r________n the same i_____________e.

T________________o urban r__________y in 1950, this f________e began the p_______d at 6%, just 1% a_______e the s_________c for the rural population. O____________________________s, urban numbers s________d, r_______g by a______________________y 5% e__________________________________y. This trend is a___________d to c__________e and urban o___________s should r__________t just under 40% by 2040. In contrast, rural populations were l________________y, increasing u___________________________________________s and a____________d to r______h 6% in 2040. The growth in total figures r_____________________r urban percentages but are 5-10% h____________________t.

The age d______________n i______________________y that those 15-65 (beginning at 6% in 1950) will become most c________n, rising close to 5% each decade w________________________________f 35% b______________________________________d. Those under 15 and over 65 d___________________________________n at around 5% for the m___________y of the time d__________d.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

Read more and use these ideas to practice:

https://www.irishtimes.com/opinion/david-mcwilliams-the-global-population-will-soon-fall-and-this-will-change-the-world-1.4627666

Speaking Practice

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

Countryside

  1. Why is the country quieter than the city?
  2. Why do many people prefer to live in the countryside?
  3. Where are the quietest places in cities?
  4. What will the countryside look like in your country in the future?
  5. Are there any drawbacks to investing in public transport in the countryside?

Writing Practice

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

IELTS 16 Essay: Ownership of Electrical Appliances Line Chart
IELTS Essay: Globalization

IELTS Essay: Globalization

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of globalization 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: Globalization

Globalization is positive for economies but its negative sides should not be ignored.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many feel that the positives of globalization justify ignoring the downsides. In my opinion, modest benefits should not overshadow legitimate threats.

The most commonly cited advantages of globalization are economic. The argument here is that by allowing companies to operate across national borders, this is a boon to both consumers and national economies. For example, in the last several decades, many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China have allowed for foreign investment, thereby stimulating their economic growth. Individuals can enjoy a variety of products from around the world and the companies themselves contribute in the form of taxes and employment opportunities. However, many would caution that multinational companies are exploitive and have driven local businesses to bankruptcy. The overall impact for the average person is therefore uncertain.

Globalization also creates apparent cultural advantages. Individuals from all around the world can experience the latest Hollywood movies and listen to their favorite artists on applications like Spotify. This undoubtedly influences and encourages other entertainers to work hard and produce quality content. Nonetheless, it can foster a harmful homogeneity. The film industry is a prime example of this. The standard American structure for films and television shows is now copied globally and funded by powerful entertainment studios such as Netflix. These companies are almost exclusively interested in specific genres, most commonly crime and action. Over time, entertainment may become less unique and no longer showcase true diversity.

In conclusion, the cultural and economic advantages of globalization have concomitant tradeoffs. It is therefore important for each nation to carefully manage and balance their relationship to global society.

Analysis

1. Many feel that the positives of globalization justify ignoring the downsides. 2. In my opinion, modest benefits should not overshadow legitimate threats.

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

1. The most commonly cited advantages of globalization are economic. 2. The argument here is that by allowing companies to operate across national borders, this is a boon to both consumers and national economies. 3. For example, in the last several decades, many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China have allowed for foreign investment, thereby stimulating their economic growth. 4. Individuals can enjoy a variety of products from around the world and the companies themselves contribute in the form of taxes and employment opportunities. 5. However, many would caution that multinational companies are exploitive and have driven local businesses to bankruptcy. 6. The overall impact for the average person is therefore uncertain.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Switch to talk about the disadvantages.
  6. Develop that side too.

1. Globalization also creates apparent cultural advantages. 2. Individuals from all around the world can experience the latest Hollywood movies and listen to their favorite artists on applications like Spotify. 3. This undoubtedly influences and encourages other entertainers to work hard and produce quality content. 4. Nonetheless, it can foster a harmful homogeneity. 5. The film industry is a prime example of this. 6. The standard American structure for films and television shows is now copied globally and funded by powerful entertainment studios such as Netflix. 7. These companies are almost exclusively interested in specific genres, most commonly crime and action. 8. Over time, entertainment may become less unique and no longer showcase true diversity.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Continue developing it…
  5. as fully as possible!
  6. Be sure to develop the other side fully.
  7. Including specific examples.
  8. As well as the furthest possible result.

1. In conclusion, the cultural and economic advantages of globalization have concomitant tradeoffs. 2. It is therefore important for each nation to carefully manage and balance their relationship to global society.

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

Vocabulary

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

Many feel that the positives of globalization justify ignoring the downsides. In my opinion, modest benefits should not overshadow legitimate threats.

The most commonly cited advantages of globalization are economic. The argument here is that by allowing companies to operate across national borders, this is a boon to both consumers and national economies. For example, in the last several decades, many Asian countries such as Vietnam and China have allowed for foreign investment, thereby stimulating their economic growth. Individuals can enjoy a variety of products from around the world and the companies themselves contribute in the form of taxes and employment opportunities. However, many would caution that multinational companies are exploitive and have driven local businesses to bankruptcy. The overall impact for the average person is therefore uncertain.

Globalization also creates apparent cultural advantages. Individuals from all around the world can experience the latest Hollywood movies and listen to their favorite artists on applications like Spotify. This undoubtedly influences and encourages other entertainers to work hard and produce quality content. Nonetheless, it can foster a harmful homogeneity. The film industry is a prime example of this. The standard American structure for films and television shows is now copied globally and funded by powerful entertainment studios such as Netflix. These companies are almost exclusively interested in specific genres, most commonly crime and action. Over time, entertainment may become less unique and no longer showcase true diversity.

In conclusion, the cultural and economic advantages of globalization have concomitant tradeoffs. It is therefore important for each nation to carefully manage and balance their relationship to global society.

Answers

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

positives benefits

globalization the world being the same

justify give good reason for

ignoring not paying attention to

downsides negatives

modest benefits small advantages

overshadow stronger than

legitimate threats real risks

most commonly cited advantages drawbacks talked about the most

economic related to the economy

argument debate

allowing companies permitting corporations

operate across national borders work in various countries

boon benefit

consumers customers

national economies money earned in a country

in the last several decades last 20-30 years

Asian from Asia

allowed permitted

foreign investment money from other countries

stimulating making grow

economic growth countries making more money, higher GDP

variety different kinds of

products things that are sold

contribute add ot

in the form of as/made up of

taxes money paid to the government

employment opportunities job chances

exploitive take advantage of

driven local businesses made small businesses

bankruptcy out of business

overall impact whole effect

average person normal citizen

uncertain not clear

apparent cultural advantages seeming benefits for art

all around the world globally

experience watching/viewing

latest Hollywood movies new films at the cinema

listen hear

artists people who make music, films

Spotify application for streaming music

undoubtedly influences definitely affects

encourages motivates

produce quality content make good stuff

nonetheless regardless

foster engender

harmful homogeneity everything the same in a bad way

prime example good instance

standard all the same

structure way it is put together

copied duplicated

funded by given money by

studios companies that make movies

Netflix streaming website

exclusively interested only care about

specific genres individual types of movies

commonly normally

over time for a long time

unique singular

showcase true diversity show off real difference

concomitant tradeoffs resulting drawbacks

carefully manage diligently take care of

balance keep equal

relationship interaction

global society the whole world

Pronunciation

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

ˈpɒzətɪvz 
ˌgləʊb(ə)laɪˈzeɪʃ(ə)n 
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪ 
ɪgˈnɔːrɪŋ 
ˈdaʊnˌsaɪdz
ˈmɒdɪst ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
ˌəʊvəˈʃædəʊ 
lɪˈʤɪtɪmɪt θrɛts
məʊst ˈkɒmənli ˈsaɪtɪd ədˈvɑːntɪʤɪz 
ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk
ˈɑːgjʊmənt 
əˈlaʊɪŋ ˈkʌmpəniz 
ˈɒpəreɪt əˈkrɒs ˈnæʃənl ˈbɔːdəz
buːn 
kənˈsjuːməz 
ˈnæʃənl i(ː)ˈkɒnəmiz
ɪn ðə lɑːst ˈsɛvrəl ˈdɛkeɪdz
ˈeɪʃ(ə)n 
əˈlaʊd 
ˈfɒrɪn ɪnˈvɛstmənt
ˈstɪmjʊleɪtɪŋ 
ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk grəʊθ
vəˈraɪəti 
ˈprɒdʌkts 
kənˈtrɪbju(ː)t 
ɪn ðə fɔːm ɒv 
ˈtæksɪz 
ɪmˈplɔɪmənt ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪtiz
ˈɛksplɔɪtɪv
ˈdrɪvn ˈləʊkəl ˈbɪznɪsɪz 
ˈbæŋkrəptsi
ˈəʊvərɔːl ˈɪmpækt 
ˈævərɪʤ ˈpɜːsn 
ʌnˈsɜːtn
əˈpærənt ˈkʌlʧərəl ədˈvɑːntɪʤɪz
ɔːl əˈraʊnd ðə wɜːld 
ɪksˈpɪərɪəns 
ˈleɪtɪst ˈhɒlɪwʊd ˈmuːviz 
ˈlɪsn 
ˈɑːtɪsts 
spɒtifaɪ
ʌnˈdaʊtɪdli ˈɪnflʊənsɪz 
ɪnˈkʌrɪʤɪz 
ˈprɒdjuːs ˈkwɒlɪti ˈkɒntɛnt
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
ˈfɒstə 
ˈhɑːmfʊl ˌhɒməʊʤɛˈniːɪti
praɪm ɪgˈzɑːmpl 
ˈstændəd 
ˈstrʌkʧə 
ˈkɒpid 
ˈfʌndɪd baɪ 
ˈstjuːdɪəʊz 
nɛtflɪks
ɪksˈkluːsɪvli ˈɪntrɪstɪd 
spɪˈsɪfɪk ˈ(d)ʒɑːŋrəz
ˈkɒmənli 
ˈəʊvə taɪm
juːˈniːk 
ˈʃəʊkeɪs truː daɪˈvɜːsɪti
kənˈkɒmɪtənt treɪd ɒfs
ˈkeəfli ˈmænɪʤ 
ˈbæləns 
rɪˈleɪʃənʃɪp 
ˈgləʊbəl səˈsaɪəti

Vocabulary Practice

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

Many feel that the p____________s of g_________________n j__________y i__________g the d_____________s. In my opinion, m______________s should not o_______________________________________s.

The m___________________________s of globalization are e____________c. The a___________t here is that by a_______________________s to o_____________________________s, this is a b_______n to both c____________s and n______________________s. For example, i________________________s, many A______n countries such as Vietnam and China have a__________d for f______________________t, thereby s_______________g their e_________________h. Individuals can enjoy a v_________y of p_________s from around the world and the companies themselves c___________e i_______________f t____s and e____________________________s. However, many would caution that multinational companies are e_______________e and have d_________________________________s to b______________y. The o_______________t for the a________________n is therefore u__________n.

Globalization also creates a_______________________________s. Individuals from a_________________________d can e______________e the l________________________s and l_______n to their favorite a_________s on applications like S__________y. This u____________________s and e______________s other entertainers to work hard and p_______________________t. N_____________s, it can f_________r a h_______________________y. The film industry is a p________________e of this. The s___________d American s___________e for films and television shows is now c_______d globally and f___________y powerful entertainment s________s such as N_________x. These companies are almost e______________________d in s_________________s, most c___________y crime and action. O___________e, entertainment may become less u________e and no longer s____________________________y.

In conclusion, the cultural and economic advantages of globalization have c_________________________s. It is therefore important for each nation to c____________________e and b_____________e their r_______________p to g___________________y.

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

Speaking Practice

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

International Events/Parties

  1. What sort of international events does your country host?
  2. Do you think these types of events divide people?
  3. Why are these events celebrated?
  4. What activities are common for these celebrations?
  5. Are there many events that are celebrated across national borders?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

The growth of multinational companies and the resulting rise of globalization creates positive effects for all.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay: Letter to a Cinema Manager

IELTS Essay: Letter to a Cinema Manager

This is an IELTS writing task 1 letter from the real general training exam on the topic of writing a letter to you a cinema/theatre manager to ask about a jacket/coat that you forgot.

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

Dave

IELTS Essay: Letter to a Cinema Manager

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

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

Dear theatre management,

I am writing because I forgot my jacket during a recent showing at your cinema. The jacket is made from handmade hemp so it is rough and very distinctive. It is dyed blue and there is embroidery on the sleeves of brightly colored flowers.

I was in cinema 6 for the afternoon session of King Kong. I ordered my tickets online beforehand and I just double-checked to confirm that my friend and I were seated in row K, seats 12 and 13, near the center of the cinema.

I would advise you to check under the chairs in the cinema and in your lost and found section. If you are able to locate my jacket, please give me a phone call at 781-334-5054 and I will drive over to pick it up. If it is more convenient, you can also mail it to the return address on this envelope.

Thank you for your assistance.

Regards,

Jeremy

Analysis

1. Dear theatre management,

2. I am writing because I forgot my jacket during a recent showing at your cinema. 3. The jacket is made from handmade hemp so it is rough and very distinctive. 4. It is dyed blue and there is embroidery on the sleeves of brightly colored flowers.

  1. Address the letter to someone.
  2. You can begin with a greeting.
  3. Include the first bullet point.
  4. Add in some more detail if you want.

1. I was in cinema 6 for the afternoon session of King Kong. 2. I ordered my tickets online beforehand and I just double-checked to confirm that my friend and I were seated in row K, seats 12 and 13, near the center of the cinema.

  1. Begin to develop the second point.
  2. Add more detail to it.

1. I would advise you to check under the chairs in the cinema and in your lost and found section. 2. If you are able to locate my jacket, please give me a phone call at 781-334-5054 and I will drive over to pick it up. 3. If it is more convenient, you can also mail it to the return address on this envelope.

4. Thank you for your assistance.

5. Regards,

6. Jeremy

  1. Develop the last point.
  2. Keep developing it.
  3. The more detail, the better!
  4. Add an ending sentence.
  5. Use a phrase like regards or sincerely.
  6. Write your name at the end of the letter.

Vocabulary

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

Dear theatre management,

I am writing because I forgot my jacket during a recent showing at your cinema. The jacket is made from handmade hemp so it is rough and very distinctive. It is dyed blue and there is embroidery on the sleeves of brightly colored flowers.

I was in cinema 6 for the afternoon session of King Kong. I ordered my tickets online beforehand and I just double-checked to confirm that my friend and I were seated in row K, seats 12 and 13, near the center of the cinema.

I would advise you to check under the chairs in the cinema and in your lost and found section. If you are able to locate my jacket, please give me a phone call at 781-334-5054 and I will drive over to pick it up. If it is more convenient, you can also mail it to the return address on this envelope.

Thank you for your assistance.

Regards,

Jeremy

Answers

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

management the people in charge

I am writing because my intention is

forgot don’t remember

jacket coat

recent showing shown not that long ago

handmade hemp made from the hemp plant

rough not smooth

distinctive unique

dyed blue the color is blue

embroidery hand-stitched images

sleeves where your arms go in a shirt/jacket

brightly colored flowers strong colors for the plants/flowers

afternoon session showing after noon

ordered purchased

online beforehand on the internet before the show

double-checked looked again

confirm make sure

row line of seats

near next to

center in the middle

advise give advice

check under the chairs look under the seats

lost and found section area where you put missing items

locate find

give me a phone call ring me up

drive over come get

pick it up come get it

convenient if it is easy

mail it send by delivery

return address where I live

envelope what letters are sent in

thank you for your assistance much obliged

Pronunciation

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

ˈmænɪʤmənt
aɪ æm ˈraɪtɪŋ bɪˈkɒz 
fəˈgɒt 
ˈʤækɪt 
ˈriːsnt ˈʃəʊɪŋ 
ˈhændˈmeɪd hɛmp 
rʌf 
dɪsˈtɪŋktɪv
daɪd bluː 
ɪmˈbrɔɪdəri 
sliːvz 
ˈbraɪtli ˈkʌləd ˈflaʊəz
ˈɑːftəˈnuːn ˈsɛʃən 
ˈɔːdəd 
ˈɒnˌlaɪn bɪˈfɔːhænd 
ˈdʌbl-ʧɛkt 
kənˈfɜːm 
rəʊ 
nɪə 
ˈsɛntə 
ədˈvaɪz 
ʧɛk ˈʌndə ðə ʧeəz 
lɒst ænd faʊnd ˈsɛkʃən
ləʊˈkeɪt 
gɪv miː ə fəʊn kɔːl 
draɪv ˈəʊvə 
pɪk ɪt ʌp
kənˈviːniənt
meɪl ɪt 
rɪˈtɜːn əˈdrɛs 
ˈɛnvələʊp
θæŋk juː fɔː jɔːr əˈsɪstəns

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

Dear theatre m___________t,

I__________________e I f__________t my j________t during a r______________g at your cinema. The jacket is made from h_________________p so it is r________h and very d____________e. It is d___________e and there is e____________y on the s__________s of b______________________s.

I was in cinema 6 for the a__________________n of King Kong. I o__________d my tickets o________________d and I just d________________d to c____________m that my friend and I were seated in r___w K, seats 12 and 13, n____r the c__________r of the cinema.

I would a_______e you to c_____________________s in the cinema and in your l________________________n. If you are able to l_________e my jacket, please g______________________l at 781-334-5054 and I will d_____________r to p_________________p. If it is more c_______________t, you can also m________t to the r_________________s on this e_____________e.

T_________________________e.

Regards,

Jeremy

Listening Practice

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

Reading Practice

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

Best Place to Sit in the Cinema

Speaking Practice

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

Film/Movie Star

  1. Who is your favourite film star?
  2. Would you like to be a film star?
  3. Have you ever met a film star in person?
  4. Are film stars popular in your country?

Writing Practice

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

You recently attended a conference and would like to give a presentation to your colleagues about it. Write a letter to your manager and include

  • The topic of the conference
  • Why you want to present about it
  • When it could be done
IELTS Essay: Newspapers as the Most Important News Source

IELTS Essay: Newspapers as the Most Important News Source

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of whether or not newspapers are still the most important source of 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: Newspapers as the Most Important News Source

Although more and more people read news on the Internet, newspapers will remain the most important source of news for the majority of people.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some believe that despite the rise in consumption of online news, newspapers will always be the primary news source for most. In my opinion, though newspapers may remain more trustworthy, online news will surely only become more popular in the future.

Those who argue for the primacy of newspapers point out their reputations. Before publication, newspaper articles are researched thoroughly, often for several months, by accomplished and professional writers who then pass their articles on to editors who verify the information and approve inclusion in the next edition. Most individuals are dimly aware of this process and therefore more likely to carefully read and trust reputable papers like The New York Times and Washington Post. This stands in marked contrast to online news which is written hastily and published instantly, often with the intended purpose of generating clicks and advertising revenue rather than accurately informing their audience.

Nonetheless, the majority of people already receive most news from sources other than newspapers. This includes television and podcasts, but websites and social media now dominate the media landscape. Most individuals find articles through websites like Facebook and Twitter that allow for the direct posting of links, which can then redirect users to a primary news source. Other more popular social media, including YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, are more likely to aggregate and summarize or respond to recent news stories. Their potential audience is far wider than the dwindling circulations of physical newspapers.

In conclusion, despite the reliability of newspapers, there is little that can curb the growing ubiquity of online news. Individuals must therefore be more discerning as to which influencers they trust.

Analysis

1. Some believe that despite the rise in consumption of online news, newspapers will always be the primary news source for most. 2. In my opinion, though newspapers may remain more trustworthy, online news will surely only become more popular in the future.

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

1. Those who argue for the primacy of newspapers point out their reputations. 2. Before publication, newspaper articles are researched thoroughly, often for several months, by accomplished and professional writers who then pass their articles on to editors who verify the information and approve inclusion in the next edition. 3. Most individuals are dimly aware of this process and therefore more likely to carefully read and trust reputable papers like The New York Times and Washington Post. 4. This stands in marked contrast to online news which is written hastily and published instantly, often with the intended purpose of generating clicks and advertising revenue rather than accurately informing their audience.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific or hypothetical examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.

1. Nonetheless, the majority of people already receive most news from sources other than newspapers. 2. This includes television and podcasts, but websites and social media now dominate the media landscape. 3. Most individuals find articles through websites like Facebook and Twitter that allow for the direct posting of links, which can then redirect users to a primary news source. 4. Other more popular social media, including YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, are more likely to aggregate and summarize or respond to recent news stories. 5. Their potential audience is far wider than the dwindling circulations of physical newspapers.

  1. Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your new main idea.
  3. Include specific details and examples.
  4. Continue developing it…
  5. as fully as possible!

1. In conclusion, despite the reliability of newspapers, there is little that can curb the growing ubiquity of online news. 2. Individuals must therefore be more discerning as to which influencers they trust.

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

Vocabulary

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

Some believe that despite the rise in consumption of online news, newspapers will always be the primary news source for most. In my opinion, though newspapers may remain more trustworthy, online news will surely only become more popular in the future.

Those who argue for the primacy of newspapers point out their reputations. Before publication, newspaper articles are researched thoroughly, often for several months, by accomplished and professional writers who then pass their articles on to editors who verify the information and approve inclusion in the next edition. Most individuals are dimly aware of this process and therefore more likely to carefully read and trust reputable papers like The New York Times and Washington Post. This stands in marked contrast to online news which is written hastily and published instantly, often with the intended purpose of generating clicks and advertising revenue rather than accurately informing their audience.

Nonetheless, the majority of people already receive most news from sources other than newspapers. This includes television and podcasts, but websites and social media now dominate the media landscape. Most individuals find articles through websites like Facebook and Twitter that allow for the direct posting of links, which can then redirect users to a primary news source. Other more popular social media, including YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, are more likely to aggregate and summarize or respond to recent news stories. Their potential audience is far wider than the dwindling circulations of physical newspapers.

In conclusion, despite the reliability of newspapers, there is little that can curb the growing ubiquity of online news. Individuals must therefore be more discerning as to which influencers they trust.

Answers

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

despite regardless of

rise increase

consumption reading

online news websites, social media

newspapers where you read the news, physical papers

primary news source main way of getting news

remain stay

trustworthy can be trusted

surely definitely

argue claim

primacy importance, dominance

point out argue

reputations how people trust them

publication release

researched thoroughly lots of time preparing

several months 3 – 4 months

accomplished experienced

professional qualified

pass their articles on give their writing to

editors people who check articles

verify make sure it is true

information what is in the article

approve inclusion allow it to be published

next edition next issue

dimly aware kind of know about

process way it is done

carefully read spend time reading

trust reputable papers believe in professional newspapers

The New York Times the most trusted newspaper

Washington Post another trusted newspaper

stands in marked contrast to is clearly different from

hastily quickly and without care

published instantly released right away

intended purpose the reason they are written

generating clicks getting people to open them up

advertising revenue money from ads

rather than instead of

accurately informing conveying correct information

audience readers

nonetheless regardless

majority most of

receive most news get their news

other than besides

includes has inside

podcasts people talking online

social media Instagram, TikTok, Facebook, etc.

dominate have power over

media landscape news and papers generally

articles stories

direct posting put it right on there

links a redirect to another website

redirect users send to another site

primary news source main way to get news

aggregate summarize and combine

summarize sum up

respond to answer

potential audience possible readers/viewers

far wider much larger

dwindling circulations less and less people subscribing

physical newspapers actual papers

despite regardless of

reliability trustworthiness

little that can curb not much to stop

growing ubiquity more and more common

therefore thus

discerning careful

influencers popular people who post online

Pronunciation

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

dɪsˈpaɪt 
raɪz 
kənˈsʌm(p)ʃən 
ˈɒnˌlaɪn njuːz
ˈnjuːzˌpeɪpəz 
ˈpraɪməri njuːz sɔːs 
rɪˈmeɪn 
ˈtrʌstˌwɜːði
ˈʃʊəli 
ˈɑːgjuː 
ˈpraɪməsi 
pɔɪnt aʊt 
ˌrɛpju(ː)ˈteɪʃənz
ˌpʌblɪˈkeɪʃən
rɪˈsɜːʧt ˈθʌrəli
ˈsɛvrəl mʌnθs
əˈkɒmplɪʃt 
prəˈfɛʃənl 
pɑːs ðeər ˈɑːtɪklz ɒn 
ˈɛdɪtəz 
ˈvɛrɪfaɪ 
ˌɪnfəˈmeɪʃən 
əˈpruːv ɪnˈkluːʒən 
nɛkst ɪˈdɪʃən
ˈdɪmli əˈweə 
ˈprəʊsɛs 
ˈkeəfli riːd 
trʌst ˈrɛpjʊtəbl ˈpeɪpəz 
ðə njuː jɔːk taɪmz 
ˈwɒʃɪŋtən pəʊst
stændz ɪn mɑːkt ˈkɒntrɑːst tuː 
ˈheɪstɪli 
ˈpʌblɪʃt ˈɪnstəntli
ɪnˈtɛndɪd ˈpɜːpəs 
ˈʤɛnəreɪtɪŋ klɪks 
ˈædvətaɪzɪŋ ˈrɛvɪnjuː 
ˈrɑːðə ðæn 
ˈækjʊrɪtli ɪnˈfɔːmɪŋ 
ˈɔːdiəns
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
məˈʤɒrɪti 
rɪˈsiːv məʊst njuːz 
ˈʌðə ðæn 
ɪnˈkluːdz 
ˈpɒdkɑːsts
ˈsəʊʃəl ˈmiːdiə 
ˈdɒmɪneɪt 
ˈmiːdiə ˈlænskeɪp
ˈɑːtɪklz 
dɪˈrɛkt ˈpəʊstɪŋ 
lɪŋks
ˌriːdɪˈrɛkt ˈjuːzəz 
ˈpraɪməri njuːz sɔːs
ˈægrɪgɪt 
ˈsʌməraɪz 
rɪsˈpɒnd tuː 
pəʊˈtɛnʃəl ˈɔːdiəns 
fɑː ˈwaɪdə 
ˈdwɪndlɪŋ ˌsɜːkjʊˈleɪʃənz 
ˈfɪzɪkəl ˈnjuːzˌpeɪpəz
dɪsˈpaɪt 
rɪˌlaɪəˈbɪlɪti 
ˈlɪtl ðæt kæn kɜːb 
ˈgrəʊɪŋ ju(ː)ˈbɪkwɪti 
ˈðeəfɔː 
dɪˈsɜːnɪŋ 
ˈɪnflʊənsəz 

Vocabulary Practice

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

Some believe that d___________e the r____e in c_________________n of o________________s, n______________s will always be the p____________________e for most. In my opinion, though newspapers may r____________n more t______________y, online news will s________y only become more popular in the future.

Those who a________e for the p__________y of newspapers p__________t their r______________s. Before p____________n, newspaper articles are r___________________y, often for s_____________________s, by a________________d and p_________________l writers who then p__________________n to e__________s who v______y the i_______________n and a____________________n in the n_______________n. Most individuals are d___________e of this p_________s and therefore more likely to c____________________d and t____________________________s like T______________________s and W___________________t. This s________________________________o online news which is written h___________y and p_______________________y, often with the i__________________e of g____________________s and a__________________e r__________________n a______________________g their a____________e.

N_______________s, the m____________y of people already r________________s from sources o_____________n newspapers. This i___________s television and p___________s, but websites and s_____________a now d___________e the m___________________e. Most individuals find a_________s through websites like Facebook and Twitter that allow for the d________________g of l_______s, which can then r_______________s to a p____________________e. Other more popular social media, including YouTube, Instagram, and TikTok, are more likely to a____________e and s________________e or r_____________o recent news stories. Their p_______________e is f______________r than the d______________________s of p____________________s.

In conclusion, d________e the r____________y of newspapers, there is l____________________b the g__________________y of online news. Individuals must t____________e be more d_____________g as to which i_________________s they trust.

Listening Practice

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

https://www.youtube.com/user/TheNewYorkTimes

Reading Practice

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

https://www.wired.com/1994/09/news-suck/

Speaking Practice

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

Newspapers/Magazines

  1. Do you prefer to read newspapers or magazines?
  2. Do you like reading the news online?
  3. Is it more convenient nowadays to read the news online?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn news. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.