IELTS Essay: Crime Amongst Youngsters

IELTS Essay: Crime Amongst Youngsters

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of more crimes being committed by youngsters 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: Crime Amongst Youngsters

In many countries, crimes rates amongst younger people has been rising.

Discuss the causes and solutions for this problem.

Criminal rates among younger offenders have been rising in certain countries. In my opinion, this is largely due to individual economic factors and the best solutions are related to ensuring stable employment for the majority of citizens.

The primary reasons for rises in youth crime are economic. There has been a persistent global recession in many nations since the world economic crisis of 2008. For example, countries such as Greece have been struggling for many years to reestablish core industries and stimulate economic growth to sustain high living standards. When the economy is in decline and fewer jobs are available, crime rates naturally rise as a result. This has been exacerbated in the last 2 years as Covid-19 has decimated national economies and put millions out of work. Young people with little savings are often the most vulnerable since they have fewer employable skills and less work experience.

Crime rates among younger individuals will recede with economic stimulus plans directed at job creation and education. The countries that have been able to survive and prosper during economic uncertainty tend to be those with mature economies, flexible governments, and a well-educated populace. In northern Europe, for instance, welfare states were able to support the underprivileged and many citizens with university degrees only had to wait in order for business to stabilize. The result of individuals having jobs is the motive for crime disappears in the vast majority of cases and police can focus on less common causes such as mental illness, greed, and jealousy.

In conclusion, the rise in youth crimes in a period of imperiled economies can be countered by government initiatives aimed at this same underlying cause. Addressing the symptoms of crime is simply a short-term solution.

Analysis

1. Criminal rates among younger offenders have been rising in certain countries. 2. In my opinion, this is largely due to individual economic factors and the best solutions are related to ensuring stable employment for the majority of citizens.

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

1. The primary reasons for rises in youth crime are economic. 2. There has been a persistent global recession in many nations since the world economic crisis of 2008. 3. For example, countries such as Greece have been struggling for many years to reestablish core industries and stimulate economic growth to sustain high living standards. 4. When the economy is in decline and fewer jobs are available, crime rates naturally rise as a result. 5. This has been exacerbated in the last 2 years as Covid-19 has decimated national economies and put millions out of work. 6. Young people with little savings are often the most vulnerable since they have fewer employable skills and less work experience.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Stay focused on the same main idea.
  6. Conclude with a strong statement.

1. Crime rates among younger individuals will recede with economic stimulus plans directed at job creation and education. 2. The countries that have been able to survive and prosper during economic uncertainty tend to be those with mature economies, flexible governments, and a well-educated populace. 3. In northern Europe, for instance, welfare states were able to support the underprivileged and many citizens with university degrees only had to wait in order for business to stabilize. 4. The result of individuals having jobs is the motive for crime disappears in the vast majority of cases and police can focus on less common causes such as mental illness, greed, and jealousy.

  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 fully!

1. In conclusion, the rise in youth crimes in a period of imperiled economies can be countered by government initiatives aimed at this same underlying cause. 2. Addressing the symptoms of crime is simply a short-term solution.

  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.

Criminal rates among younger offenders have been rising in certain countries. In my opinion, this is largely due to individual economic factors and the best solutions are related to ensuring stable employment for the majority of citizens.

The primary reasons for rises in youth crime are economic. There has been a persistent global recession in many nations since the world economic crisis of 2008. For example, countries such as Greece have been struggling for many years to reestablish core industries and stimulate economic growth to sustain high living standards. When the economy is in decline and fewer jobs are available, crime rates naturally rise as a result. This has been exacerbated in the last 2 years as Covid-19 has decimated national economies and put millions out of work. Young people with little savings are often the most vulnerable since they have fewer employable skills and less work experience.

Crime rates among younger individuals will recede with economic stimulus plans directed at job creation and education. The countries that have been able to survive and prosper during economic uncertainty tend to be those with mature economies, flexible governments, and a well-educated populace. In northern Europe, for instance, welfare states were able to support the underprivileged and many citizens with university degrees only had to wait in order for business to stabilize. The result of individuals having jobs is the motive for crime disappears in the vast majority of cases and police can focus on less common causes such as mental illness, greed, and jealousy.

In conclusion, the rise in youth crimes in a period of imperiled economies can be countered by government initiatives aimed at this same underlying cause. Addressing the symptoms of crime is simply a short-term solutions.

Answers

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

criminal rates number of people committing crimes

younger offenders youths committing crimes

rising growing

certain specific

largely mostly

due to because of

individual economic factors isolated problems related to business

related to concerning

ensuring making sure of

stable employment consistent jobs

majority most of

primary reasons main causes

persistent global recession consistent economies shrinking

world economic crisis of 2008 big problem with finances, recession

struggling having difficulty with

reestablish core industries start back up important businesses

stimulate economic growth encourage business growth

sustain high living standards keep quality of life high

in decline going down

fewer less

available out there that can be taken

naturally of course

as a result the outcome is

exacerbated hurting

decimated hurt

put millions out of work lots of people jobless

little savings not much money in the bank

vulnerable weak

fewer employable skills not as many abilities to help you get a job

less work experience not as much time working in the past

recede begin to disappear

economic stimulus plans action to pump money into the economy

directed at aimed at

survive get by

prosper during economic uncertainty do well when the economy is bad

mature fully developed

flexible governments nations responding well to events

well-educated populace smart citizens

northern Europe countries like Sweden, Denmark, Germany, etc.

welfare states countries that support citizens a lot

support help

underprivileged poor

stabilize make sure it is ok

motive reason

disappears goes away

vast majority of cases most instances

less common causes not as popular reasons

mental illness sick in the head

greed desiring money

jealousy envy

period time

imperiled economies economies in trouble

countered by resolved by

initiatives actions, proposals, laws

aimed at with the purpose of

underlying cause foundational reason

addressing dealing with

symptoms what comes from a disease – not the cause itself, effects

short-term solutions will just work for now

Pronunciation

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

ˈkrɪmɪnl reɪts 
ˈjʌŋər əˈfɛndəz 
ˈraɪzɪŋ 
ˈsɜːtn 
ˈlɑːʤli 
djuː tuː 
ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəl ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈfæktəz 
rɪˈleɪtɪd tuː 
ɪnˈʃʊərɪŋ 
ˈsteɪbl ɪmˈplɔɪmənt 
məˈʤɒrɪti 
ˈpraɪməri ˈriːznz 
pəˈsɪstənt ˈgləʊbəl rɪˈsɛʃən 
wɜːld ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈkraɪsɪs ɒv tuː ˈθaʊzənd ænd eɪt
ˈstrʌglɪŋ 
ˌriːɪsˈtæblɪʃ kɔːr ˈɪndəstriz 
ˈstɪmjʊleɪt ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk grəʊθ 
səsˈteɪn haɪ ˈlɪvɪŋ ˈstændədz
ɪn dɪˈklaɪn 
ˈfjuːə 
əˈveɪləbl
ˈnæʧrəli 
æz ə rɪˈzʌlt
ɛksˈæsə(ː)beɪtɪd 
ˈdɛsɪmeɪtɪd 
pʊt ˈmɪljənz aʊt ɒv wɜːk
ˈlɪtl ˈseɪvɪŋz 
ˈvʌlnərəbl 
ˈfjuːər ɪmˈplɔɪəbl skɪlz 
lɛs wɜːk ɪksˈpɪərɪəns
ri(ː)ˈsiːd 
ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈstɪmjʊləs plænz 
dɪˈrɛktɪd æt 
səˈvaɪv 
ˈprɒspə ˈdjʊərɪŋ ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ʌnˈsɜːtnti 
məˈtjʊə 
ˈflɛksəbl ˈgʌvnmənts
wɛl-ˈɛdju(ː)keɪtɪd ˈpɒpjʊləs
ˈnɔːðən ˈjʊərəp
ˈwɛlfeə steɪts 
səˈpɔːt 
ˌʌndəˈprɪvɪlɪʤd 
ˈsteɪbɪlaɪz
ˈməʊtɪv 
ˌdɪsəˈpɪəz 
vɑːst məˈʤɒrɪti ɒv ˈkeɪsɪz 
lɛs ˈkɒmən ˈkɔːzɪz 
ˈmɛntl ˈɪlnɪs
griːd
ˈʤɛləsi
ˈpɪərɪəd 
ɪmˈpɛrɪld i(ː)ˈkɒnəmiz 
ˈkaʊntəd baɪ 
ɪˈnɪʃɪətɪvz 
eɪmd æt 
ˌʌndəˈlaɪɪŋ kɔːz
əˈdrɛsɪŋ 
ˈsɪmptəmz 
ʃɔːt-tɜːm səˈluːʃənz

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:

C_________________s among y_________________s have been r_______g in c_______n countries. In my opinion, this is l________y d_______o i______________________s and the best solutions are r____________o e_____________g s______________________t for the m___________y of citizens.

The p__________________s for rises in youth crime are economic. There has been a p_________________________n in many nations since the w______________________________8. For example, countries such as Greece have been s____________g for many years to r__________________________s and s_________________________________h to s_________________________________s. When the economy is i______________e and f________r jobs are a__________e, crime rates n______________y rise a____________t. This has been e______________d in the last 2 years as Covid-19 has d____________d national economies and p________________________k. Young people with l_________________s are often the most v____________e since they have f________________________s and l_______________________e.

Crime rates among younger individuals will r___________e with e_______________________s d_____________t job creation and education. The countries that have been able to s_____________e and p________________________________________y tend to be those with m_________e economies, f__________________________s, and a w______________________e. In n____________________e, for instance, w__________________s were able to s__________t the u__________________d and many citizens with university degrees only had to wait in order for business to s_________e. The result of individuals having jobs is the m_________e for crime d____________s in the v___________________________s and police can focus on l_____________________s such as m___________________s, g______d, and j_________y.

In conclusion, the rise in youth crimes in a p________d of i____________________s can be c__________________y government i_________________________t this same u__________________e. A_____________g the s______________s of crime is simply a s______________________s.

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:

https://www.independent.co.uk/topic/youth-crime

Speaking Practice

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

Truth in Crime

  1. Why do witnesses of crimes sometimes disagree in their accounts?
  2. How can modern technology help solve crimes?
  3. Will teaching children to be honest reduce crime in the future?
  4. Should there be more severe penalties for crimes like libel?
  5. How will the detection of lies change in the future?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think the parents should be punished instead.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

IELTS Essay: Roommate Letter

IELTS Essay: Roommate Letter

This is an IELTS writing task 1 letter from the real general training exam on the topic of complaining about problems related to a roommate.

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: Roommate Letter

You live with a roommate at university but you have trouble studying because of a problem related to your roommate. Write a letter to an administrator at your university and include:

  • Who you are
  • The problem
  • What you suggest they do

To whom it may concern,

My name is Nhi and I am a 3rd-year medical students currently attending your university and residing in the Williams dormitory along the south border of campus. I just transferred here after completing my first 2 years at Sonoma College.

I am writing because there is an issue with my assigned roommate related to being inconsiderate. The problem is that my roommate keeps very unusual sleeping hours. She often arrives home late and is very noisy entering the room. Oftentimes she will begin to watch a movie or play music late at night and wake me up. I have tried to talk to her but she has not changed her habits so far.

I am writing because I would like someone in a position of authority to issue her a warning and, if that fails, I need a new room or roommate. I hope that this can be resolved simply by having someone speak with her because we get along well otherwise.

Please inform me at your earliest convenience of the steps that will be taken.

Sincerely,

Nhi

Analysis

1. To whom it may concern,

2. My name is Nhi and I am a 3rd-year medical students currently attending your university and residing in the Williams dormitory along the south border of campus. 3. I just transferred here after completing my first 2 years at Sonoma College.

  1. Address the letter to someone.
  2. Include the first bullet point.
  3. Add in some more detail if you want.

1. I am writing because there is an issue with my assigned roommate related to being inconsiderate. 2. The problem is that my roommate keeps very unusual sleeping hours. 3. She often arrives home late and is very noisy entering the room. 4. Oftentimes she will begin to watch a movie or play music late at night and wake me up. 5. I have tried to talk to her but she has not changed her habits so far.

  1. Begin to develop the second point.
  2. Add more detail to it.
  3. Keep developing it.
  4. Put in as much as possible for a higher task achievement score.
  5. Too much is better than too little.

1. I am writing because I would like someone in a position of authority to issue her a warning and, if that fails, I need a new room or roommate. 2. I hope that this can be resolved simply by having someone speak with her because we get along well otherwise.

3. Please inform me at your earliest convenience of the steps that will be taken.

4. Sincerely,

5. Nhi

  1. Develop the last point.
  2. Keep developing it.
  3. Add an ending sentence.
  4. Use a phrase like regards or sincerely.
  5. 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.

To whom it may concern,

My name is Nhi and I am a 3rd-year medical students currently attending your university and residing in the Williams dormitory along the south border of campus. I just transferred here after completing my first 2 years at Sonoma College.

I am writing because there is an issue with my assigned roommate related to being inconsiderate. The problem is that my roommate keeps very unusual sleeping hours. She often arrives home late and is very noisy entering the room. Oftentimes she will begin to watch a movie or play music late at night and wake me up. I have tried to talk to her but she has not changed her habits so far.

I am writing because I would like someone in a position of authority to issue her a warning and, if that fails, I need a new room or roommate. I hope that this can be resolved simply by having someone speak with her because we get along well otherwise.

Please inform me at your earliest convenience of the steps that will be taken.

Sincerely,

Nhi

Answers

3rd-year junior

currently attending now going to school at

residing in living in

dormitory along rooms for students to stay in next to

border side

transferred moving from one school to another

completing finishing

issue problem

assigned roommate person given to me to live with

related to concerning

inconsiderate not being polite to others

keeps very unusual sleeping hours sleeps at weird times

arrives comes back

noisy entering loud coming in

oftentimes usually

begin start

late at night after 10pm

wake me up make me get up

so far to this point

position job

authority person with power

issue problem

warning formal admonishing

if that fails if that doesn’t work

resolved simply taken care of easily

get along well friendly with each other

otherwise in all other situations

inform tell

earliest convenience as soon as you can

steps that will be taken actions to be done

sincerely from

Pronunciation

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

θɜːd-jɪə 
ˈkʌrəntli əˈtɛndɪŋ 
rɪˈzaɪdɪŋ ɪn 
ˈdɔːmɪtri əˈlɒŋ 
ˈbɔːdə 
trænsˈfɜːd 
kəmˈpliːtɪŋ 
ˈɪʃuː 
əˈsaɪnd ˈruːmmeɪt 
rɪˈleɪtɪd tuː 
kənˈsɪdərɪt
kiːps ˈvɛri ʌnˈjuːʒʊəl ˈsliːpɪŋ ˈaʊəz
əˈraɪvz 
ˈnɔɪzi ˈɛntərɪŋ 
ˈɒfntaɪmz 
bɪˈgɪn 
leɪt æt naɪt 
weɪk miː ʌp
səʊ fɑː
pəˈzɪʃən 
ɔːˈθɒrɪti 
ˈɪʃuː 
ˈwɔːnɪŋ 
ɪf ðæt feɪlz
rɪˈzɒlvd ˈsɪmpli 
gɛt əˈlɒŋ wɛl 
ˈʌðəwaɪz
ɪnˈfɔːm 
ˈɜːlɪɪst kənˈviːniəns 
stɛps ðæt wɪl biː ˈteɪkən
sɪnˈsɪəli

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

To whom it may concern,

My name is Nhi and I am a 3________r medical students c_________________g your university and r______________n the Williams d______________g the south b__________r of campus. I just t______________d here after c___________g my first 2 years at Sonoma College.

I am writing because there is an i_______e with my a_____________________e r__________o being i______________e. The problem is that my roommate k__________________________________________s. She often a________s home late and is very n__________________g the room. O____________s she will b________n to watch a movie or play music l_____________t and w____________p. I have tried to talk to her but she has not changed her habits s_______r.

I am writing because I would like someone in a p___________n of a_____________y to i_______e her a w__________g and, i____________s, I need a new room or roommate. I hope that this can be r_______________y by having someone speak with her because we g__________________l o___________e.

Please i_________m me at your e______________________e of the s_______________________n.

S____________y,

Nhi

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:

Speaking Practice

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

Where you Live

  1. Do you like where you live now?
  2. Do you have a good relationship with your neighbors?
  3. Is it a good area for children to grow up?

Writing Practice

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

You recently stayed at a hotel for a conference with your company and there were several problems with your room. Write to the hotel management to complain. Include

  • Where you stayed
  • What the problems were
  • How they can fix your complaints
IELTS Essay: Convenience Foods

IELTS Essay: Convenience Foods

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of convenience foods 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: Convenience Foods

Convenience foods will become increasingly prevalent and eventually replace traditional foods and methods of preparation.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many feel that convenience foods will one day completely replace traditional cuisine. In my opinion, though these products are inexpensive and convenient, there will always be a meaningful place for traditional food products.

The threat of convenience foods is based in their value. Prepared foods that can be found in supermarkets and small shops such as TV dinners and junk food are cheap and require little initiative. There is appeal in this for both single individuals and those with families. Most people come home tired after a long day at work or school and do not want to spend too much money or invest a lot of time in preparing a meal. Therefore, it is logical that companies produce ready-made meals that target this particular segment of market demand. In the future, there is a strong chance that companies will make these products healthier and convenience foods will become more prevalent.

Nonetheless, there will always be appreciation for traditional meals. At the moment, this is because these meals taste better and are healthier than convenience foods. Shoppers tend to consume unhealthy prepared meals as a last resort and when they have surplus time, money, or energy will opt for more wholesome meals that they can remember from their childhood. This is the reason that most cities have vibrant food scenes. Additionally, even if convenience foods can later be manufactured to a higher standard, it is unlikely individuals will ever want to relinquish the atmosphere of a more traditional dining experience. Traditional food is therefore an antidote to increasingly insular and sedentary modern lifestyles.

In conclusion, despite the utilitarian benefits of convenience foods, individuals will always prefer the better quality and experience of eating more traditionally. This is likely to remain the case for the foreseeable future.

Analysis

1. Many feel that convenience foods will one day completely replace traditional cuisine. 2. In my opinion, though these products are inexpensive and convenient, there will always be a meaningful place for traditional food products.

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

1. The threat of convenience foods is based in their value. 2. Prepared foods that can be found in supermarkets and small shops such as TV dinners and junk food are cheap and require little initiative. 3. There is appeal in this for both single individuals and those with families. 4. Most people come home tired after a long day at work or school and do not want to spend too much money or invest a lot of time in preparing a meal. 5. Therefore, it is logical that companies produce ready-made meals that target this particular segment of market demand. 6. In the future, there is a strong chance that companies will make these products healthier and convenience foods will become more prevalent.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Stay focused on the same main idea.
  6. Finish with the full result.

1. Nonetheless, there will always be appreciation for traditional meals. 2. At the moment, this is because these meals taste better and are healthier than convenience foods. 3. Shoppers tend to consume unhealthy prepared meals as a last resort and when they have surplus time, money, or energy will opt for more wholesome meals that they can remember from their childhood. 4. This is the reason that most cities have vibrant food scenes. 5. Additionally, even if convenience foods can later be manufactured to a higher standard, it is unlikely individuals will ever want to relinquish the atmosphere of a more traditional dining experience. 6. Traditional food is therefore an antidote to increasingly insular and sedentary modern lifestyles.

  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. Vary long and short sentences.

1. In conclusion, despite the utilitarian benefits of convenience foods, individuals will always prefer the better quality and experience of eating more traditionally. 2. This is likely to remain the case for the foreseeable future.

  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 convenience foods will one day completely replace traditional cuisine. In my opinion, though these products are inexpensive and convenient, there will always be a meaningful place for traditional food products.

The threat of convenience foods is based in their value. Prepared foods that can be found in supermarkets and small shops such as TV dinners and junk food are cheap and require little initiative. There is appeal in this for both single individuals and those with families. Most people come home tired after a long day at work or school and do not want to spend too much money or invest a lot of time in preparing a meal. Therefore, it is logical that companies produce ready-made meals that target this particular segment of market demand. In the future, there is a strong chance that companies will make these products healthier and convenience foods will become more prevalent.

Nonetheless, there will always be appreciation for traditional meals. At the moment, this is because these meals taste better and are healthier than convenience foods. Shoppers tend to consume unhealthy prepared meals as a last resort and when they have surplus time, money, or energy will opt for more wholesome meals that they can remember from their childhood. This is the reason that most cities have vibrant food scenes. Additionally, even if convenience foods can later be manufactured to a higher standard, it is unlikely individuals will ever want to relinquish the atmosphere of a more traditional dining experience. Traditional food is therefore an antidote to increasingly insular and sedentary modern lifestyles.

In conclusion, despite the utilitarian benefits of convenience foods, individuals will always prefer the better quality and experience of eating more traditionally. This is likely to remain the case for the foreseeable future.

Answers

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

convenience foods junk foods and prepared foods

one day eventually

completely replace take over 100%

traditional cuisine food from the past of a country

products foods

inexpensive cheap

convenient cheap and easy

meaningful place important space

traditional food products culturally important foods

threat risk

is based in has its foundation in

value importance

prepared foods meals made ahead of time

can be found in can be located in

TV dinners prepared meals you can microwave

junk food unhealthy foods like chips, etc.

cheap inexpensive

require little initiative need not much effort

appeal attractiveness

single individuals unmarried people

tired without energy

invest put money, time into

logical rational

ready-made meals already prepared foods

particular segment certain area

market demand consumers wanting it

strong chance good likelihood

healthier better for you

prevalent very common

nonetheless regargless

appreciation caring about

meals foods

at the moment right now

taste better better flavor

healthier more nutritious

consume eat

last resort final option

surplus extra

wholesome meals good foods

childhood when you were a kid

vibrant food scenes flourishing restaurants

additionally also

later in the future

higher standard better quality

relinquish give up

atmosphere feeling in the restaurant

more traditional less modern

dining experience atmosphere

antidote cure

increasingly more and more

insular isolated

sedentary less active, more passive

modern lifestyles way people live now

utilitarian benefits actual effects for a person

prefer desire more

quality how good something is

remain the case still true

foreseeable future as far as we can see in the future

Pronunciation

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

kənˈviːniəns fuːdz 
wʌn deɪ 
kəmˈpliːtli rɪˈpleɪs 
trəˈdɪʃənl kwi(ː)ˈziːn
ˈprɒdʌkts 
ˌɪnɪksˈpɛnsɪv 
kənˈviːniənt
ˈmiːnɪŋfʊl pleɪs 
trəˈdɪʃənl fuːd ˈprɒdʌkts
θrɛt 
ɪz beɪst ɪn 
ˈvæljuː
prɪˈpeəd fuːdz 
kæn biː faʊnd ɪn 
ˌtiːˈviː ˈdɪnəz 
ʤʌŋk fuːd 
ʧiːp 
rɪˈkwaɪə ˈlɪtl ɪˈnɪʃɪətɪv
əˈpiːl 
ˈsɪŋgl ˌɪndɪˈvɪdjʊəlz 
ˈtaɪəd 
ɪnˈvɛst 
ˈlɒʤɪkəl 
ˈrɛdɪˈmeɪd miːlz 
pəˈtɪkjʊlə ˈsɛgmənt 
ˈmɑːkɪt dɪˈmɑːnd
strɒŋ ʧɑːns 
ˈhɛlθɪə 
ˈprɛvələnt
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
əˌpriːʃɪˈeɪʃ(ə)n 
miːlz
æt ðə ˈməʊmənt
teɪst ˈbɛtə 
ˈhɛlθɪə 
kənˈsjuːm 
lɑːst rɪˈzɔːt 
ˈsɜːpləs 
ˈhəʊlsəm miːlz 
ˈʧaɪldhʊd
ˈvaɪbrənt fuːd siːnz
əˈdɪʃənli
ˈleɪtə 
ˈhaɪə ˈstændəd
rɪˈlɪŋkwɪʃ 
ˈætməsfɪə 
mɔː trəˈdɪʃənl 
ˈdaɪnɪŋ ɪksˈpɪərɪəns
ˈæntɪdəʊt 
ɪnˈkriːsɪŋli 
ˈɪnsjʊlə 
ˈsɛdntəri 
ˈmɒdən ˈlaɪfˌstaɪlz
ˌjuːtɪlɪˈteərɪən ˈbɛnɪfɪts 
priˈfɜː 
ˈkwɒlɪti 
rɪˈmeɪn ðə keɪs 
fɔːˈsiːəbl ˈfjuːʧə

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 c____________________s will o_________y c__________________e t_____________________e. In my opinion, though these p___________s are i_______________e and c_____________t, there will always be a m________________________e for t_______________________________s.

The t________t of convenience foods i________________n their v_______e. P________________s that c_________________n supermarkets and small shops such as T______________s and j___________d are c________p and r_____________________e. There is a___________l in this for both s________________s and those with families. Most people come home t________d after a long day at work or school and do not want to spend too much money or i_________t a lot of time in preparing a meal. Therefore, it is l__________l that companies produce r__________________s that target this p_______________________t of m_________________d. In the future, there is a s_________________e that companies will make these products h______________r and convenience foods will become more p___________t.

N________________s, there will always be a________________n for traditional m________s. A___________________t, this is because these meals t____________r and are h_____________r than convenience foods. Shoppers tend to c___________e unhealthy prepared meals as a l_________t and when they have s__________s time, money, or energy will opt for more w____________________s that they can remember from their c____________d. This is the reason that most cities have v______________________s. A_____________y, even if convenience foods can l________r be manufactured to a h________________d, it is unlikely individuals will ever want to r____________h the a_____________e of a m_______________________________________e. Traditional food is therefore an a___________e to i_____________________r and s_____________________________s.

In conclusion, despite the u_________________s of convenience foods, individuals will always p_________r the better q________y and experience of eating more traditionally. This is likely to r_________________e for the f_____________________e.

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:

https://www.bbc.com/future/article/20210521-which-processed-foods-are-better-than-natural

Speaking Practice

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

Food

  1. What kinds of foods do you like to eat?
  2. How different is food in your country today from when you were younger?
  3. Which foods do you dislike?
  4. What foods do people in your country buy at the market?

Writing Practice

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

Many manufactured food and drink products contain high levels of sugar, which causes many health problems. Sugary products should be made more expensive to encourage people to consume less sugar.

Do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay Task 1: Mining Town

IELTS Essay Task 1: Mining Town

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of a mining town in the past and now from the real IELTS exam.

A really interesting, kind of strange one – love the opportunity to write about an old-timey mining town!

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

Dave

IELTS Cambridge 16 Essay: Airport Map

The plans below show the site of mining town in the past and after redevelopment in the present day.

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

ielts essay map mine

The maps detail significant alterations to a former mining town. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town became less focused on the industry of mining and more on tourism with various historical sites and facilities for dining and entertainment.

In the past, the mining town was centered around a mine entrance for workers and related infrastructure. There were two waste pits near the mines as well as a staff changing room and medical room for treatment of injuries. Adjacent to the mine was also an office building and slightly further away was the parking lot for cars and lorries.

In the present day, the parking lot for cars remains the same and the mine is still present, though it is now for visitors instead of workers. The office and changing rooms have been replaced by a museum while the lorry parking space and medical area have become a footpath (leading to a children’s playground) and a cafe, respectively. Finally, the waste pits have been removed in favor of a driving truck track and an area reserved for picnics.

Analysis

1. The maps detail significant alterations to a former mining town. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town became less focused on the industry of mining and more on tourism with various historical sites and facilities for dining and entertainment.

  1. Paraphrase what the map shows.
  2. Write a clear overview summarising the major groups.

1. In the past, the mining town was centered around a mine entrance for workers and related infrastructure. 2. There were two waste pits near the mines as well as a staff changing room and medical room for treatment of injuries. 3. Adjacent to the mine was also an office building and slightly further away was the parking lot for cars and lorries.

  1. Begin writing about the details of the map.
  2. Describe what is located next to what you described before.
  3. Include everything!

1. In the present day, the parking lot for cars remains the same and the mine is still present, though it is now for visitors instead of workers. 2. The office and changing rooms have been replaced by a museum while the lorry parking space and medical area have become a footpath (leading to a children’s playground) and a cafe, respectively. 3. Finally, the waste pits have been removed in favor of a driving truck track and an area reserved for picnics.

  1. Move on to the other map.
  2. Try to paraphrase some of the words from the map as well.
  3. Include every single change in the map.

Vocabulary

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

The maps detail significant alterations to a former mining town. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that the town became less focused on the industry of mining and more on tourism with various historical sites and facilities for dining and entertainment.

In the past, the mining town was centered around a mine entrance for workers and related infrastructure. There were two waste pits near the mines as well as a staff changing room and medical room for treatment of injuries. Adjacent to the mine was also an office building and slightly further away was the parking lot for cars and lorries.

In the present day, the parking lot for cars remains the same and the mine is still present, though it is now for visitors instead of workers. The office and changing rooms have been replaced by a museum while the lorry parking space and medical area have become a footpath (leading to a children’s playground) and a cafe, respectively. Finally, the waste pits have been removed in favor of a driving truck track and an area reserved for picnics.

Answers

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

detail show

significant alterations big changes

former mining town past place where people dug into the ground to locate minerals

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

less focused on not caring about

industry business, work

more on tourism directed more toward customers

various historical sites different places related to history

facilities infrastructure

dining eating

entertainment places to have fun

in the past formerly

centered around related to

entrance place to go in

related infrastructure similar buildings, etc.

waste pits where to put the excess waste/trass

near next to

as well as and

a staff changing room place to put on clothes

medical room hospital area

injuries getting hurt

adjacent to next to

slightly further away a little bit away from there

parking lot place to park

lorries trucks

in the present day right now

remains the same nothing has changed

present now

visitors guests

instead of rather than

replaced by something in its place

footpath walking road

leading to going toward

respectively in turn

removed in favor of taken away in order for

reserved for specifically for

Pronunciation

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

ˈdiːteɪl 
sɪgˈnɪfɪkənt ˌɔːltəˈreɪʃ(ə)nz 
ˈfɔːmə ˈmaɪnɪŋ taʊn
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪvɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
lɛs ˈfəʊkəst ɒn 
ˈɪndəstri 
mɔːr ɒn ˈtʊərɪz(ə)m 
ˈveərɪəs hɪsˈtɒrɪkəl saɪts 
fəˈsɪlɪtiz 
ˈdaɪnɪŋ 
ˌɛntəˈteɪnmənt
ɪn ðə pɑːst
ˈsɛntəd əˈraʊnd 
ˈɛntrəns 
rɪˈleɪtɪd ˈɪnfrəˌstrʌkʧə
weɪst pɪts 
nɪə 
æz wɛl æz 
ə stɑːf ˈʧeɪnʤɪŋ ruːm 
ˈmɛdɪkəl ruːm 
ˈɪnʤəriz
əˈʤeɪsənt tuː 
ˈslaɪtli ˈfɜːðər əˈweɪ 
ˈpɑːkɪŋ lɒt 
ˈlɒriz
ɪn ðə ˈprɛznt deɪ
rɪˈmeɪnz ðə seɪm 
ˈprɛznt
ˈvɪzɪtəz 
ɪnˈstɛd ɒv 
rɪˈpleɪst baɪ 
ˈfʊtpɑːθ 
ˈliːdɪŋ tuː 
rɪsˈpɛktɪvli
rɪˈmuːvd ɪn ˈfeɪvər ɒv 
rɪˈzɜːvd fɔː 

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

The maps d_________l s______________________s to a f________________n. L_____________________________________________________t the town became l__________________n the i__________y of mining and m_______________m with v_________________________s and f______________s for d________g and e_________________t.

I_______________t, the mining town was c_________________d a mine e__________e for workers and r________________________e. There were two w_________________r the mines a____________s a________________________m and m_________________m for treatment of i___________s. A___________o the mine was also an office building and s_______________________y was the p_______________t for cars and l___________s.

I__________________y, the parking lot for cars r___________________e and the mine is still p_________t, though it is now for v_________s i___________f workers. The office and changing rooms have been r_____________y a museum while the lorry parking space and medical area have become a f_________h (l_____________o a children’s playground) and a cafe, r_____________y. Finally, the waste pits have been r__________________________f a driving truck track and an area r______________r picnics.

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.loveexploring.com/gallerylist/67994/the-eerie-american-gold-rush-ghost-towns-you-can-visit

Speaking Practice

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

Work (Model answer available on my Patreon)

  1. Do you work or are you a student?
  2. Do you like your current job?
  3. In the future, do you want to change jobs?

Writing Practice

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

IELTS Essay: Map of Pentland
IELTS Essay General Training: Wild Animals and Zoos

IELTS Essay General Training: Wild Animals and Zoos

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of wild animals and zoos 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!

Check out a related video here too: https://youtube.com/shorts/R-7vLPqjfis?si=li058QWVhLHUJEfG

Dave

IELTS Essay General Training: Wild Animals and Zoos

Some people believe that wild animals should not be kept in zoos or other man-made environments as there is no longer a need for them in the 21st century.

Do you agree or disagree?

Many believe that zoos are antiquated and inhumane. In my opinion, though zoos raise legitimate ethical concerns, their value for conservation is greater than ever before.

Critics of zoos argue that the animal life simulated there is unnatural. In the majority of zoos, animals are kept in small enclosures or cages. Any visitor to a zoo is first struck by the lack of energy and vitality present in animals not living in their natural habitats and fending for themselves. This unnatural divorce from their intended purpose in life is inherently unethical. Added to this is the fact that there are now alternatives to zoos. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the Serengeti is located, there are sprawling national preserves that accomplish the dual aims of aiding animal conservation and allowing interested spectators to see wildlife up close.

Nonetheless, zoos are principal locations for wildlife research and preservation initiatives. Nearly every zoo will not only allow local researchers to learn more about animals, but also contain programs for increasing population numbers. The hastening of climate change has brought disastrous results to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now endangered. It is nearly impossible to quickly restore their homes so the only option remaining is to breed animals in captivity to increase their numbers and then release them into the wild later. This situation is unfortunate but necessary and will only become more essential in years to come as greater numbers of species are threatened and zoos become a key location for raising both public awareness and population levels.

In conclusion, despite the moral hazards zoos entail, their effect on wildlife conservation is crucial. Countries should therefore continue to maintain their current zoos.

Analysis

1. Many believe that zoos are antiquated and inhumane. 2. In my opinion, though zoos raise legitimate ethical concerns, their value for conservation is greater than ever before.

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

1. Critics of zoos argue that the animal life simulated there is unnatural. 2. In the majority of zoos, animals are kept in small enclosures or cages. 3. Any visitor to a zoo is first struck by the lack of energy and vitality present in animals not living in their natural habitats and fending for themselves. 4. This unnatural divorce from their intended purpose in life is inherently unethical. 5. Added to this is the fact that there are now alternatives to zoos. 6. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the Serengeti is located, there are sprawling national preserves that accomplish the dual aims of aiding animal conservation and allowing interested spectators to see wildlife up close.

  1. Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
  2. Explain your main idea.
  3. Develop it with specific examples.
  4. Keep developing it fully.
  5. Stay focused on the same main idea.
  6. You can have some long sentences like this to really argue your point.

1. Nonetheless, zoos are principal locations for wildlife research and preservation initiatives. 2. Nearly every zoo will not only allow local researchers to learn more about animals, but also contain programs for increasing population numbers. 3. The hastening of climate change has brought disastrous results to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now endangered. 4. It is nearly impossible to quickly restore their homes so the only option remaining is to breed animals in captivity to increase their numbers and then release them into the wild later. 5. This situation is unfortunate but necessary and will only become more essential in years to come as greater numbers of species are threatened and zoos become a key location for raising both public awareness and population levels.

  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 moral hazards zoos entail, their effect on wildlife conservation is crucial. 2. Countries should therefore continue to maintain their current zoos.

  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 believe that zoos are antiquated and inhumane. In my opinion, though zoos raise legitimate ethical concerns, their value for conservation is greater than ever before.

Critics of zoos argue that the animal life simulated there is unnatural. In the majority of zoos, animals are kept in small enclosures or cages. Any visitor to a zoo is first struck by the lack of energy and vitality present in animals not living in their natural habitats and fending for themselves. This unnatural divorce from their intended purpose in life is inherently unethical. Added to this is the fact that there are now alternatives to zoos. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the Serengeti is located, there are sprawling national preserves that accomplish the dual aims of aiding animal conservation and allowing interested spectators to see wildlife up close.

Nonetheless, zoos are principal locations for wildlife research and preservation initiatives. Nearly every zoo will not only allow local researchers to learn more about animals, but also contain programs for increasing population numbers. The hastening of climate change has brought disastrous results to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now endangered. It is nearly impossible to quickly restore their homes so the only option remaining is to breed animals in captivity to increase their numbers and then release them into the wild later. This situation is unfortunate but necessary and will only become more essential in years to come as greater numbers of species are threatened and zoos become a key location for raising both public awareness and population levels.

In conclusion, despite the moral hazards zoos entail, their effect on wildlife conservation is crucial. Countries should therefore continue to maintain their current zoos.

Answers

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

zoos places where animals are kept for people to look at

antiquated old and outdated

inhumane not ethical, moral

raise legitimate ethical concerns mention real moral issues

value consider important

conservation keeping safe and alive

greater than ever before more important than in the past

critics detractors

argue claim

simulated recreated

unnatural artificial

majority most of

kept remained

small enclosures cages, small spaces

cages metal bars around an animal

visitor guest

first struck notice initially

lack of energy lacking energy

vitality present in life contained in

natural habitats where animals are from

fending for themselves looking after itself

unnatural divorce artificial separation

intended purpose stated aim

inherently unethical immoral from the beginning

added to this is the fact that also

alternatives different options

Serengeti a really large preservation

sprawling national preserves large place for animals to live

accomplish achieve

dual aims two purposes

interested spectators audiences who want to go there

up close in person

nonetheless regardless

principal locations main places

wildlife research looking into animals

preservation initiatives attempts to save animals

local living nearby

contain programs have initiatives

increasing population numbers more and more animals

hastening speeding up

climate change global warming

brought disastrous results caused something really bad

endangered not many left

restore bring back to life

only option remaining no other choices

breed reproduce

in captivity in zoos

release them into the wild go back to their natural habitat

unfortunate not lucky

necessary needed

more essential really important

species types of animals

threatened at risk

key location important place

raising both public awareness and population levels increasing knowledge about animals and their numbers

despite regardless of

moral hazards ethical concerns

entail involve

crucial really important

continue to maintain keep up

current present day

Pronunciation

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

zuːz 
ˈæntɪkweɪtɪd 
ˌɪnhju(ː)ˈmeɪn
reɪz lɪˈʤɪtɪmɪt ˈɛθɪkəl kənˈsɜːnz
ˈvæljuː 
ˌkɒnsə(ː)ˈveɪʃən 
ˈgreɪtə ðæn ˈɛvə bɪˈfɔː
ˈkrɪtɪks 
ˈɑːgjuː 
ˈsɪmjʊleɪtɪd 
ʌnˈnæʧrəl
məˈʤɒrɪti 
kɛpt 
smɔːl ɪnˈkləʊʒəz 
ˈkeɪʤɪz
ˈvɪzɪtə 
fɜːst strʌk 
læk ɒv ˈɛnəʤi 
vaɪˈtælɪti ˈprɛznt ɪn 
ˈnæʧrəl ˈhæbɪtæts 
ˈfɛndɪŋ fɔː ðəmˈsɛlvz
ʌnˈnæʧrəl dɪˈvɔːs 
ɪnˈtɛndɪd ˈpɜːpəs 
ɪnˈhɪərəntli ˌʌnˈɛθɪkəl
ˈædɪd tuː ðɪs ɪz ðə fækt ðæt 
ɔːlˈtɜːnətɪvz 
sɛrɪngɛti: 
ˈsprɔːlɪŋ ˈnæʃənl prɪˈzɜːvz 
əˈkɒmplɪʃ 
ˈdju(ː)əl eɪmz 
ˈɪntrɪstɪd spɛkˈteɪtəz 
ʌp kləʊs
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
ˈprɪnsəpəl ləʊˈkeɪʃənz 
ˈwaɪldlaɪf rɪˈsɜːʧ 
ˌprɛzə(ː)ˈveɪʃən ɪˈnɪʃɪətɪvz
ˈləʊkəl 
kənˈteɪn ˈprəʊgræmz 
ɪnˈkriːsɪŋ ˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən ˈnʌmbəz
ˈheɪsnɪŋ 
ˈklaɪmɪt ʧeɪnʤ 
brɔːt dɪˈzɑːstrəs rɪˈzʌlts 
ɪnˈdeɪnʤəd
rɪsˈtɔː 
ˈəʊnli ˈɒpʃən rɪˈmeɪnɪŋ 
briːd 
ɪn kæpˈtɪvɪti 
rɪˈliːs ðɛm ˈɪntuː ðə waɪld 
ʌnˈfɔːʧnɪt 
ˈnɛsɪsəri 
mɔːr ɪˈsɛnʃəl 
ˈspiːʃiːz 
ˈθrɛtnd 
kiː ləʊˈkeɪʃən 
ˈreɪzɪŋ bəʊθ ˈpʌblɪk əˈweənəs ænd ˌpɒpjʊˈleɪʃən ˈlɛvlz
dɪsˈpaɪt 
ˈmɒrəl ˈhæzədz 
ɪnˈteɪl
ˈkruːʃəl
kənˈtɪnju(ː) tuː meɪnˈteɪn 
ˈkʌrənt 

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 believe that z____s are a_____________d and i_____________e. In my opinion, though zoos r_____________________________s, their v_______e for c__________________n is g______________________________e.

C______s of zoos a_____e that the animal life s___________d there is u____________l. In the m_________y of zoos, animals are k____t in s________________s or c_______s. Any v_________r to a zoo is f____________k by the l_______________y and v_________________n animals not living in their n_________________s and f________________________s. This u____________________e from their i_________________e in life is i_______________________l. A_____________________________________t there are now a____________s to zoos. In countries such as Kenya and Tanzania, where the S___________i is located, there are s_________________________s that a_____________h the d_________s of aiding animal conservation and allowing i___________________s to see wildlife u_______e.

N______________s, zoos are p________________s for w_________________h and p__________________________s. Nearly every zoo will not only allow l______l researchers to learn more about animals, but also c__________________s for i_________________________________s. The h___________g of c_____________e has b_____________________________s to animal habitats around the world and thousands of animals are now e_____________d. It is nearly impossible to quickly r_________e their homes so the o_____________________g is to b______d animals i______________y to increase their numbers and then r________________________d later. This situation is u_______________e but n_____________y and will only become m_________________l in years to come as greater numbers of s__________s are t______________d and zoos become a k_____________n for r_________________________________________________s.

In conclusion, d_________e the m____________s zoos e________l, their effect on wildlife conservation is c__________l. Countries should therefore c_____________________n their c_________t zoos.

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:

https://www.theguardian.com/world/2020/feb/02/zoos-time-shut-down-conservation-education-wild-animals

Speaking Practice

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

Wildlife

  1. Have you ever seen a wild animal?
  2. What is your favourite wild animal?
  3. How do you feel when you see animals at the zoo?
  4. What is the importance of animals to children?

Writing Practice

Practice with the related IELTS essay topic below:

Some people think that resources should be spent on protecting wild animals, while others think those would be better used for the human population.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.