IELTS Essay: Harder to Study at School

IELTS Essay: Harder to Study at School

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of it being harder to study at school from the real IELTS general training exam.

Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my exclusive IELTS Ebooks! (You can also sign up for live, personal lessons with me there.)

Dave

IELTS Essay: Harder to Study at School

Many students find it is harder to study at university or college compared to when they were in grade school.

Why is this?

What are some possible solutions for this problem?

Many university students find concentrating on their new academic life considerably more challenging than past schooling. In my opinion, this is typically due to the altered structure of university teaching and the best solutions are to prepare and support students in the transition.

The primary cause of a lack of concentration at university is adjustment to novel ways of learning. In high school or secondary school, students fall into a set pattern of daily classes and homework assignments. This changes greatly depending on the pedagogical techniques of the university in question. Most university courses will only meet once or twice a week and the workload outside the classroom is larger and may include writing long essays and reading entire books. Students must therefore have the self-discipline to work mostly on their own and then be prepared for more rigorous discussion than they are used to with professors and other students.

The solutions to the problem mentioned above involve the activity of high schools and universities. For high school students who will be moving on to higher education, it is important that there are courses offered that roughly simulate the rigor of university. An example of this would be the AP courses on offer at most American high schools. Additionally, university professors play a key role, particularly freshman year. Professors must be patient but also strict in ensuring students understand their responsibilities. This could entail simple awareness raising related to how to manage their time effectively or clear illustrations of the standards required for academic comprehension and output in university.

In conclusion, though it is challenging for students to adapt to new styles of teaching and learning, they can be aided by empathetic teachers. The new environment will always be an obstacle and part of the importance of university is learning independently to overcome it.

Analysis

1. Many university students find concentrating on their new academic life considerably more challenging than past schooling. 2. In my opinion, this is typically due to the altered structure of university teaching and the best solutions are to prepare and support students in the transition.

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

1. The primary cause of a lack of concentration at university is adjustment to novel ways of learning. 2. In high school or secondary school, students fall into a set pattern of daily classes and homework assignments. 3. This changes greatly depending on the pedagogical techniques of the university in question. 4. Most university courses will only meet once or twice a week and the workload outside the classroom is larger and may include writing long essays and reading entire books. 5. Students must therefore have the self-discipline to work mostly on their own and then be prepared for more rigorous discussion than they are used to with professors and other students.

  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.

1. The solutions to the problem mentioned above involve the activity of high schools and universities. 2. For high school students who will be moving on to higher education, it is important that there are courses offered that roughly simulate the rigor of university. 3. An example of this would be the AP courses on offer at most American high schools. 4. Additionally, university professors play a key role, particularly freshman year. 5. Professors must be patient but also strict in ensuring students understand their responsibilities. 6. This could entail simple awareness raising related to how to manage their time effectively or clear illustrations of the standards required for academic comprehension and output in university.

  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. Finish with a strong statement.

1. In conclusion, though it is challenging for students to adapt to new styles of teaching and learning, they can be aided by empathetic teachers. 2. The new environment will always be an obstacle and part of the importance of university is learning independently to overcome it.

  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 university students find concentrating on their new academic life considerably more challenging than past schooling. In my opinion, this is typically due to the altered structure of university teaching and the best solutions are to prepare and support students in the transition.

The primary cause of a lack of concentration at university is adjustment to novel ways of learning. In high school or secondary school, students fall into a set pattern of daily classes and homework assignments. This changes greatly depending on the pedagogical techniques of the university in question. Most university courses will only meet once or twice a week and the workload outside the classroom is larger and may include writing long essays and reading entire books. Students must therefore have the self-discipline to work mostly on their own and then be prepared for more rigorous discussion than they are used to with professors and other students.

The solutions to the problem mentioned above involve the activity of high schools and universities. For high school students who will be moving on to higher education, it is important that there are courses offered that roughly simulate the rigor of university. An example of this would be the AP courses on offer at most American high schools. Additionally, university professors play a key role, particularly freshman year. Professors must be patient but also strict in ensuring students understand their responsibilities. This could entail simple awareness raising related to how to manage their time effectively or clear illustrations of the standards required for academic comprehension and output in university.

In conclusion, though it is challenging for students to adapt to new styles of teaching and learning, they can be aided by empathetic teachers. The new environment will always be an obstacle and part of the importance of university is learning independently to overcome it.

Answers

For extra practice, write down an antonym (opposite word) for each of the new words below:

concentrating focusing

new academic life university

considerably greatly

challenging difficult

past schooling high school, primary, secondary school

typically normally

due to because of

altered structure different way

prepare get ready

support help

transition change

primary cause main reason

lack of concentration can’t focus

adjustment change

novel ways new methods

fall into a set pattern become set in their ways

greatly depending on a lot in the case where

pedagogical techniques ways of teaching

in question relevant now

meet once or twice a week have class a couple times in a week

workload outside the classroom work to do at home

therefore thus

self-discipline willpower

rigorous difficult

used to acclimated to

involve has to do woth

moving on going to

higher education university

roughly simulate approximate

rigor difficulty

AP courses honors classes

on offer available

additionally also

play a key role have an important part

particularly especially

freshman year first year of university

patient not in a rush

strict severe

ensuring making sure

entail consists of

awareness raising informing about

manage their time effectively not wasting time

clear illustrations good orders

standards required what they must do

academic comprehension understanding the class

output what they produce

adapt deal with

aided helped

empathetic caring, understanding

obstacle hurdle

part of the importance of one key element of

independently on their own

overcome beat, triumph over

Pronunciation

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

ˈkɒnsəntreɪtɪŋ 
njuː ˌækəˈdɛmɪk laɪf 
kənˈsɪdərəbli 
ˈʧælɪnʤɪŋ 
pɑːst ˈskuːlɪŋ
ˈtɪpɪk(ə)li 
djuː tuː 
ˈɔːltəd ˈstrʌkʧə 
prɪˈpeə 
səˈpɔːt 
trænˈzɪʃ(ə)n
ˈpraɪməri kɔːz 
læk ɒv ˌkɒnsənˈtreɪʃən 
əˈʤʌstmənt 
ˈnɒvəl weɪz 
fɔːl ˈɪntuː ə sɛt ˈpætən 
ˈgreɪtli dɪˈpɛndɪŋ ɒn 
ˌpɛdəˈgɒʤɪkəl tɛkˈniːks 
ɪn ˈkwɛsʧən
miːt wʌns ɔː twaɪs ə wiːk 
ˈwɜːkˌləʊd ˌaʊtˈsaɪd ðə ˈklɑːsrʊm
ˈðeəfɔː
sɛlf-ˈdɪsɪplɪn 
ˈrɪgərəs 
juːzd tuː 
ɪnˈvɒlv 
ˈmuːvɪŋ ɒn 
ˈhaɪər ˌɛdju(ː)ˈkeɪʃən
ˈrʌfli ˈsɪmjʊleɪt 
ˈrɪgə 
eɪ-piː ˈkɔːsɪz 
ɒn ˈɒfə 
əˈdɪʃənli
pleɪ ə kiː rəʊl
pəˈtɪkjʊləli 
ˈfrɛʃmən jɪə
ˈpeɪʃənt 
strɪkt 
ɪnˈʃʊərɪŋ 
ɪnˈteɪl 
əˈweənəs ˈreɪzɪŋ 
ˈmænɪʤ ðeə taɪm ɪˈfɛktɪvli 
klɪər ˌɪləsˈtreɪʃənz 
ˈstændədz rɪˈkwaɪəd 
ˌækəˈdɛmɪk ˌkɒmprɪˈhɛnʃən 
ˈaʊtpʊt 
əˈdæpt
ˈeɪdɪd 
ˈɛmpəθetik
ˈɒbstəkl 
pɑːt ɒv ði ɪmˈpɔːtəns ɒv 
ˌɪndɪˈpɛndəntli 
ˌəʊvəˈkʌm

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 university students find c______________g on their n_________________e c______________y more c_________________g than p_____________g. In my opinion, this is t______________y d________o the a_________________e of university teaching and the best solutions are to p__________e and s____________t students in the t____________n.

The p________________e of a l_____________________n at university is a____________t to n____________s of learning. In high school or secondary school, students f______________________n of daily classes and homework assignments. This changes g__________y d________________n the p_______________________s of the university i______________n. Most university courses will only m__________________________k and the w_________________________________m is larger and may include writing long essays and reading entire books. Students must t____________e have the s___________________e to work mostly on their own and then be prepared for more r____________s discussion than they are u________o with professors and other students.

The solutions to the problem mentioned above i__________e the activity of high schools and universities. For high school students who will be m______________n to h___________________n, it is important that there are courses offered that r_______________e the r______r of university. An example of this would be the A___________s o____________r at most American high schools. A________________y, university professors p________________e, p______________y f________________r. Professors must be p_________t but also s_________t in e__________g students understand their responsibilities. This could e________l simple a_____________________g related to how to m___________________________y or c__________________s of the s______________________d for a________________________n and o__________t in university.

In conclusion, though it is challenging for students to a_______t to new styles of teaching and learning, they can be a_________d by e______________c teachers. The new environment will always be an o_________e and p_______________________f university is learning i________________y to o___________e it.

Listening Practice

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

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p60rN9JEapg

Reading Practice

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

https://www.theguardian.com/education/2019/aug/12/deadlines-distractions-and-difficult-books-how-uni-differs-from-school

Speaking Practice

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

Concentration (Ebook available on my Patreon)

  1. Do you find it hard to concentrate?
  2. What do you do to concentrate better?
  3. Did you concentrate on your studies a lot when you were younger?

Writing Practice

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

Some claim that studying abroad has great benefits for a student’s home country.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

IELTS Essay: Developed Countries & Happiness

IELTS Essay: Developed Countries & Happiness

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of developed countries and happiness from the real IELTS exam.

A really tough topic – don’t try to come up with the most amazing ideas ever for it. Focus on a good, reasonable idea fully developed because the topic is so broad and difficult!

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: Developed Countries & Happiness

In recent times, economic growth has helped many become richer, both in developed and developing countries. However, those in developed countries are not as happy as they were in the past.

Why is this?

What can be learned from this?

As global wealth increases, there has been a surprising decrease in reported levels of happiness in developed nations. In my opinion, this is due to lifestyle changes and it teaches that money is merely a baseline requirement for happiness.

The main reason individuals in wealthy nations are less happy today relates to how people live. In the past, people had fewer free time options and this led to more time being outside and socializing. Modern lifestyles are predicated around isolation. For example, the average worker or student after a long day is likely to spend at least a few hours watching movies on Netflix, messaging friends, checking social media, and listening to music. These 21st century habits would seemingly elevate happiness levels but they are in fact a passive means of achieving low levels of contentment and pleasure. In the aggregate, this minimum threshold of commitment pales in comparison to more substantial activities.

The lesson from this development is that wealth is only the foundation of happiness. Many would claim that money has no relationship to happiness, however, this is naive since families living in poverty must obsess over simple matters such as shelter and sustenance. Money only serves to guarantee basic necessities and happiness is an active byproduct of action. This can be seen most clearly in nations that score high on happiness surveys such as in Northern Europe and Japan. Individuals in these countries tend to have more focused lives and feel they are part of a community and culture that requires active engagement. These societies prioritise involvement with others and community responsibility and shun the insular hobbies that have led to dissatisfaction in other developed nations.

In conclusion, lower levels of happiness are due to modern ways of living and this illustrates the relative importance of wealth. Happiness itself should not be an aim but rather a result of pursuing worthier life goals.

Analysis

1. As global wealth increases, there has been a surprising decrease in reported levels of happiness in developed nations. 2. In my opinion, this is due to lifestyle changes and it teaches that money is merely a baseline requirement for happiness.

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

1. The main reason individuals in wealthy nations are less happy today relates to how people live. 2. In the past, people had fewer free time options and this led to more time being outside and socializing. 3. Modern lifestyles are predicated around isolation. 4. For example, the average worker or student after a long day is likely to spend at least a few hours watching movies on Netflix, messaging friends, checking social media, and listening to music. 5. These 21st century habits would seemingly elevate happiness levels but they are in fact a passive means of achieving low levels of contentment and pleasure. 6. In the aggregate, this minimum threshold of commitment pales in comparison to more substantial activities.

  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 by adding extra detail.

1. The lesson from this development is that wealth is only the foundation of happiness. 2. Many would claim that money has no relationship to happiness, however, this is naive since families living in poverty must obsess over simple matters such as shelter and sustenance. 3. Money only serves to guarantee basic necessities and happiness is an active byproduct of action. 4. This can be seen most clearly in nations that score high on happiness surveys such as in Northern Europe and Japan. 5. Individuals in these countries tend to have more focused lives and feel they are part of a community and culture that requires active engagement. 6. These societies prioritise involvement with others and community responsibility and shun the insular hobbies that have led to dissatisfaction in other developed nations.

  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. Conclude by relating it back to the overall topic.

1. In conclusion, lower levels of happiness are due to modern ways of living and this illustrates the relative importance of wealth. 2. Happiness itself should not be an aim but rather a result of pursuing worthier life goals.

  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.

As global wealth increases, there has been a surprising decrease in reported levels of happiness in developed nations. In my opinion, this is due to lifestyle changes and it teaches that money is merely a baseline requirement for happiness.

The main reason individuals in wealthy nations are less happy today relates to how people live. In the past, people had fewer free time options and this led to more time being outside and socializing. Modern lifestyles are predicated around isolation. For example, the average worker or student after a long day is likely to spend at least a few hours watching movies on Netflix, messaging friends, checking social media, and listening to music. These 21st century habits would seemingly elevate happiness levels but they are in fact a passive means of achieving low levels of contentment and pleasure. In the aggregate, this minimum threshold of commitment pales in comparison to more substantial activities.

The lesson from this development is that wealth is only the foundation of happiness. Many would claim that money has no relationship to happiness, however, this is naive since families living in poverty must obsess over simple matters such as shelter and sustenance. Money only serves to guarantee basic necessities and happiness is an active byproduct of action. This can be seen most clearly in nations that score high on happiness surveys such as in Northern Europe and Japan. Individuals in these countries tend to have more focused lives and feel they are part of a community and culture that requires active engagement. These societies prioritise involvement with others and community responsibility and shun the insular hobbies that have led to dissatisfaction in other developed nations.

In conclusion, lower levels of happiness are due to modern ways of living and this illustrates the relative importance of wealth. Happiness itself should not be an aim but rather a result of pursuing worthier life goals.

Answers

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

global wealth amount of money in the world

surprising decrease shocking fall

reported levels the amount people say

developed nations rich countries

lifestyle changes different ways of living

merely only

baseline requirement minimum needed

relates to has to do with

fewer free time options not as many choices for hobbies

socializing talking to people

predicated based on

isolation being alone

average worker normal employee

long day whole day at work/school

at least at the minimum

checking social media looking at Facebook, Instagram, TikTok, etc.

21st century habits new pastimes in the 2000s

seemingly elevate ostensibly make better

in fact actually

passive means not an active way

achieving accomplishing

contentment satisfaction

pleasure happiness

in the aggregate all combined

minimum threshold the least required

commitment duty

pales in comparison is weaker than

substantial meaningful

foundation basis

claim argue

naive innocent, unrealistic

poverty poor

obsess fixate on

simple matters ordinary issues

shelter home

sustenance food

serves to works to

guarantee ensure

basic necessities minimum to live

active byproduct result of

This can be seen most clearly in a good example of this is

score high get good marks

surveys reports

Northern Europe Finland, Denmark, Sweden, etc.

focused lives purposeful lives

community neighborhood

culture traditions and people around you

requires active engagement needs actual input

prioritise consider more important

involvement with others interpersonal relationships

community responsibility duty to those around you

shun ignore

insular hobbies isolated pastimes

dissatisfaction not feeling content, satisfied

relative importance of wealth how important money is compared to other factors

aim goal

pursuing worthier life goals going after more important aims in life

Pronunciation

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

ˈgləʊbəl wɛlθ
səˈpraɪzɪŋ ˈdiːkriːs 
rɪˈpɔːtɪd ˈlɛvlz 
dɪˈvɛləpt ˈneɪʃənz
ˈlaɪfˌstaɪl ˈʧeɪnʤɪz 
ˈmɪəli 
ˈbeɪslaɪn rɪˈkwaɪəmənt 
rɪˈleɪts tuː 
ˈfjuːə friː taɪm ˈɒpʃənz 
ˈsəʊʃəlaɪzɪŋ
ˈprɛdɪkeɪtɪd 
ˌaɪsəʊˈleɪʃən
ˈævərɪʤ ˈwɜːkə 
lɒŋ deɪ 
æt liːst 
ˈʧɛkɪŋ ˈsəʊʃəl ˈmiːdiə
ˈtwɛnti fɜːst ˈsɛnʧʊri ˈhæbɪts 
ˈsiːmɪŋli ˈɛlɪveɪt 
ɪn fækt 
ˈpæsɪv miːnz 
əˈʧiːvɪŋ 
kənˈtɛntmənt 
ˈplɛʒə
ɪn ði ˈægrɪgɪt 
ˈmɪnɪməm ˈθrɛʃˌhəʊld 
kəˈmɪtmənt 
peɪlz ɪn kəmˈpærɪsn 
səbˈstænʃəl 
faʊnˈdeɪʃən 
kleɪm 
nɑːˈiːv 
ˈpɒvəti 
əbˈsɛs 
ˈsɪmpl ˈmætəz 
ˈʃɛltə 
ˈsʌstɪnəns
sɜːvz tuː 
ˌgærənˈtiː 
ˈbeɪsɪk nɪˈsɛsɪtiz 
ˈæktɪv ˈbaɪˌprɒdʌkt 
ðɪs kæn biː siːn məʊst ˈklɪəli ɪn 
skɔː haɪ 
ˈsɜːveɪz 
ˈnɔːðən ˈjʊərəp 
ˈfəʊkəst lɪvz 
kəˈmjuːnɪti 
ˈkʌlʧə 
rɪˈkwaɪəz ˈæktɪv ɪnˈgeɪʤmənt
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz 
ɪnˈvɒlvmənt wɪð ˈʌðəz 
kəˈmjuːnɪti rɪsˌpɒnsəˈbɪlɪti 
ʃʌn 
ˈɪnsjʊlə ˈhɒbiz 
dɪsˌsætɪsˈfækʃən 
ˈrɛlətɪv ɪmˈpɔːtəns ɒv wɛlθ
eɪm 
pəˈsjuːɪŋ ˈwɜːðɪə laɪf gəʊlz

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:

As g_______________h increases, there has been a s__________________e in r________________s of happiness in d________________s. In my opinion, this is due to l________________s and it teaches that money is m______y a b________________________t for happiness.

The main reason individuals in wealthy nations are less happy today r____________o how people live. In the past, people had f_________________________s and this led to more time being outside and s________________g. Modern lifestyles are p_____________d around i__________n. For example, the a_________________r or student after a l_____________y is likely to spend a________t a few hours watching movies on Netflix, messaging friends, c___________________a, and listening to music. These 2_________________s would s________________e happiness levels but they are i_______t a p_____________s of a_______________g low levels of c________________t and p___________e. I____________________e, this m_____________________d of c______________t p________________n to more s______________l activities.

The lesson from this development is that wealth is only the f___________n of happiness. Many would c______m that money has no relationship to happiness, however, this is n______e since families living in p________y must o________s over s_________________s such as s_________r and s_____________e. Money only s____________o g____________e b__________________s and happiness is an a__________________t of action. T________________________n nations that s_________h on happiness s________s such as in N_____________________e and Japan. Individuals in these countries tend to have more focused lives and feel they are part of a c______________y and c_________e that r______________________________t. These societies p____________________________s and c_________________________y and s_____n the i____________________s that have led to d_________________n in other developed nations.

In conclusion, lower levels of happiness are due to modern ways of living and this illustrates the r_________________________h. Happiness itself should not be an a____m but rather a result of p___________________________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.vox.com/first-person/2016/10/4/13093380/happiness-america-ruth-whippman

Speaking Practice

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

Age

  1. Do you like your current age?
  2. What was the biggest decision you made in your life?
  3. At what age are people happiest?

Writing Practice

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

Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

IELTS Essay: Cocoa Beans and Chocolate Process Diagram

IELTS Essay: Cocoa Beans and Chocolate Process Diagram

This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of the process of how cocoa beans and liquid chocolate is produced.

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 Essay Task 1: Cocoa Beans and Chocolate Process Diagram

The process diagram details the steps by which liquid chocolcate is produced from cocoa beans.

The process illustrated above details how cocoa beans are harvested in order to produce liquid chocolate. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that this combination of a man-made and natural process involves 3 main stages beginning with the collection and initial treatment of the beans followed by transportation and final processing in a factory.

The cacao tree is grown in South America, Africa and Indonesia and the pods are ripe for harvest when they turn red. The pods are then split open and the white cocoa beans are fermented under leaves before being left in the sun to dry. Subsequently, they are placed in large sacks and sent by either train or truck to factories for further preparations.

In the factory, the beans are roasted at 350 °C prior to being crushed in a grinder so that the outer shell can be separated out. The final step involves taking the inner part of the bean from the last step and pressing it into liquid chocolate.

Analysis

1. The process illustrated above details how cocoa beans are harvested in order to produce liquid chocolate. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that this combination of a man-made and natural process involves 3 main stages beginning with the collection and initial treatment of the beans followed by transportation and final processing in a factory.

  1. Paraphrase what the process shows.
  2. Write a clear overview summarising the major trends and differences.

1. The cacao tree is grown in South America, Africa and Indonesia and the pods are ripe for harvest when they turn red. 2. The pods are then split open and the white cocoa beans are fermented under leaves before being left in the sun to dry. 3. Subsequently, they are placed in large sacks and sent by either train or truck to factories for further preparations.

  1. Begin writing about the details of the process.
  2. Compare as much as possible.
  3. Finish the last steps of the process.

1. In the factory, the beans are roasted at 350 °C prior to being crushed in a grinder so that the outer shell can be separated out. 2. The final step involves taking the inner part of the bean from the last step and pressing it into liquid chocolate.

  1. Write about the rest of the process – include everything!
  2. Try to paraphrase some of the words from process as well.

Vocabulary

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

The process illustrated above details how cocoa beans are harvested in order to produce liquid chocolate. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that this combination of a man-made and natural process involves 3 main stages beginning with the collection and initial treatment of the beans followed by transportation and final processing in a factory.

The cacao tree is grown in South America, Africa and Indonesia and the pods are ripe for harvest when they turn red. The pods are then split open and the white cocoa beans are fermented under leaves before being left in the sun to dry. Subsequently, they are placed in large sacks and sent by either train or truck to factories for further preparations.

In the factory, the beans are roasted at 350 °C prior to being crushed in a grinder so that the outer shell can be separated out. The final step involves taking the inner part of the bean from the last step and pressing it into liquid chocolate.

Answers

illustrated above describe in the picture

details shows

harvested picked

in order to so that

produce make

liquid chocolate chococalte in liquid form

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

combination both together

man-made done by people

natural process done by nature

involves has to do with

main stages big steps

beginning with starting with

collection putting together

initial treatment first state of dealing with them

followed by after that

final processing last stage

factory place to make the chocolate, plant

cacao tree where chocolate pods are grown

pods containers

ripe ready

harvest picked

turn become

split open cut open

fermented left to age

leaves from a tree

left in the sun to dry allowed to become dry in the heat

subsequently after that

placed put in

large sacks big bags

sent given to

further preparations additional steps

roasted cooked in an oven

prior to before

crushed grinded

grinder crusher

outer shell part around the bean

separated out kept apart

pressing pushing together

Pronunciation

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

ˈɪləstreɪtɪd əˈbʌv 
ˈdiːteɪlz 
ˈhɑːvɪstɪd 
ɪn ˈɔːdə tuː 
ˈprɒdjuːs 
ˈlɪkwɪd ˈʧɒkəlɪt
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪv, ɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt 
ˌkɒmbɪˈneɪʃən 
ˈmænˈmeɪd 
ˈnæʧrəl ˈprəʊsɛs 
ɪnˈvɒlvz 
meɪn ˈsteɪʤɪz 
bɪˈgɪnɪŋ wɪð 
kəˈlɛkʃən 
ɪˈnɪʃəl ˈtriːtmənt 
ˈfɒləʊd baɪ 
ˈfaɪnl ˈprəʊsɛsɪŋ 
ˈfæktəri
kəˈkɑːəʊ triː 
pɒdz 
raɪp 
ˈhɑːvɪst 
tɜːn 
splɪt ˈəʊpən 
fə(ː)ˈmɛntɪd 
liːvz 
lɛft ɪn ðə sʌn tuː draɪ
ˈsʌbsɪkwəntli
pleɪst 
lɑːʤ sæks 
sɛnt 
ˈfɜːðə ˌprɛpəˈreɪʃənz
ˈrəʊstɪd 
ˈpraɪə tuː 
krʌʃt
ˈgraɪndə 
ˈaʊtə ʃɛl 
ˈsɛpəreɪtɪd aʊt
ˈprɛsɪŋ 

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

The process i___________________e d__________s how cocoa beans are h__________d i_____________o p_________e l___________________e. L__________________________________________t this c_____________n of a m______________e and n_______________s i____________s 3 m_____________s b_________________h the c___________n and i__________________t of the beans f________________y transportation and f________________g in a f__________y.

The c___________e is grown in South America, Africa and Indonesia and the p___s are r___e for h_________t when they t_____n red. The pods are then s________n and the white cocoa beans are f_____________d under l________s before being l_________________________y. S______________y, they are p___________d in l________________s and s______t by either train or truck to factories for f_________________________s.

In the factory, the beans are r___________d at 350 °C p______o being c________d in a g________r so that the o_____________l can be s_______________t. The final step involves taking the inner part of the bean from the last step and p___________g it into liquid chocolate.

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.lakechamplainchocolates.com/where-do-cocoa-beans-grow

Speaking Practice

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

Sweets

  1. Do you like sweets?
  2. Did you like sweets when you were younger?
  3. What kind of sweet foods are popular in your country?

Writing Practice

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

IELTS Essay: Minority Languages

IELTS Essay: Minority Languages

This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of minority languages 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: Minority Languages

Some feel governments should invest in preserving minority languages, while others feel this is not a good use of resources.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Many are of the belief that it would be worthwhile for governments to prioritise the preservation of various minority languages. In my opinion, despite limited potential efficacy this sentiment is justifiable.

Detractors of this proposal argue that investment is unlikely to have a major impact. In order for minority groups to earn a living and enjoy the conveniences of the modern world, they require knowledge of a nation’s most widely spoken language. In fact, many indigenous peoples themselves desire to move away from their hometowns to live in large cities and join the modern workforce. For example, in the Hmong people of Southeast Asia, it is typically the older generation that seeks to communicate in their native tongue and preserve traditional ways of life. The younger generation, generally, would rather learn the most useful language and integrate with the dominant national culture. Therefore efforts by governments oppose what individuals desire and are unlikely to be successful.

Nonetheless, there is cultural value in preserving a language. A language uniquely represents and codifies the external world. Everything from the verb structures and choice of nouns to the intonation and rhythm of the language present a singular way of interacting with and deciphering the world at large. For example, in many languages there are words that are not precisely translatable and users therefore are more likely to see events and objects differently. As the world becomes increasingly globalised, I would argue that the importance of a plurality of perspectives only becomes more crucial. If such languages die out, they will likely never be resurrected and the world will be poorer for the loss.

In conclusion, regardless of the potential challenges faced in preserving minority languages, their continued existence is essential to diversity. Governments must therefore make every effort to ensure their survival.

Analysis

1. Many are of the belief that it would be worthwhile for governments to prioritise the preservation of various minority languages. 2. In my opinion, despite limited potential efficacy this sentiment is justifiable.

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

1. Detractors of this proposal argue that investment is unlikely to have a major impact. 2. In order for minority groups to earn a living and enjoy the conveniences of the modern world, they require knowledge of a nation’s most widely spoken language. 3. In fact, many indigenous peoples themselves desire to move away from their hometowns to live in large cities and join the modern workforce. 4. For example, in the Hmong people of Southeast Asia, it is typically the older generation that seeks to communicate in their native tongue and preserve traditional ways of life. 5. The younger generation, generally, would rather learn the most useful language and integrate with the dominant national culture. 6. Therefore efforts by governments oppose what individuals desire and are unlikely to be successful.

  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 by adding extra detail.

1. Nonetheless, there is cultural value in preserving a language. 2. A language uniquely represents and codifies the external world. 3. Everything from the verb structures and choice of nouns to the intonation and rhythm of the language present a singular way of interacting with and deciphering the world at large. 4. For example, in many languages there are words that are not precisely translatable and users therefore are more likely to see events and objects differently. 5. As the world becomes increasingly globalised, I would argue that the importance of a plurality of perspectives only becomes more crucial. 6. If such languages die out, they will likely never be resurrected and the world will be poorer for the loss.

  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. Conclude by relating it back to the overall topic.

1. In conclusion, regardless of the potential challenges faced in preserving minority languages, their continued existence is essential to diversity. 2. Governments must therefore make every effort to ensure their survival.

  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 are of the belief that it would be worthwhile for governments to prioritise the preservation of various minority languages. In my opinion, despite limited potential efficacy this sentiment is justifiable.

Detractors of this proposal argue that investment is unlikely to have a major impact. In order for minority groups to earn a living and enjoy the conveniences of the modern world, they require knowledge of a nation’s most widely spoken language. In fact, many indigenous peoples themselves desire to move away from their hometowns to live in large cities and join the modern workforce. For example, in the Hmong people of Southeast Asia, it is typically the older generation that seeks to communicate in their native tongue and preserve traditional ways of life. The younger generation, generally, would rather learn the most useful language and integrate with the dominant national culture. Therefore efforts by governments oppose what individuals desire and are unlikely to be successful.

Nonetheless, there is cultural value in preserving a language. A language uniquely represents and codifies the external world. Everything from the verb structures and choice of nouns to the intonation and rhythm of the language present a singular way of interacting with and deciphering the world at large. For example, in many languages there are words that are not precisely translatable and users therefore are more likely to see events and objects differently. As the world becomes increasingly globalised, I would argue that the importance of a plurality of perspectives only becomes more crucial. If such languages die out, they will likely never be resurrected and the world will be poorer for the loss.

In conclusion, regardless of the potential challenges faced in preserving minority languages, their continued existence is essential to diversity. Governments must therefore make every effort to ensure their survival.

Answers

of the belief believe

worthwhile important

prioritise place more importance on

preservation keep alive

various different types

minority languages less widely spoken languages

despite regardless of

limited potential efficacy no much actual effect

sentiment feeling

justifiable reasonable

detractors critics

proposal suggestion

investment money, time, etc.

major impact large effect

minority small group

earn a living make money

conveniences modern luxury’s

modern world today’s world and lifestyles

require knowledge need to know about

most widely spoken language common languages

indigenous peoples groups native to a country

desire want

move away leave

hometowns where you are from

modern workforce working at companies, in cities, etc.

Hmong an ethnic minority from Asia

typically usually

seeks tries to

native tongue native language

traditional ways of life old modes of living

integrate join in

dominant national culture main culture of a country

efforts trying

oppose go against

desire want to

successful works out

nonetheless regardless

cultural value important for the culture

uniquely represents new ways of showing

codifies makes into a symbol, language

external world outside world, reality

verb structures how verbs are used

intonation the tone of your voice

rhythm the musical quality of a language

present a singular way show a unique method

interacting with communicating with

deciphering figuring out

at large in general

not precisely translatable can’t be put in another language

users people who speak a language

increasingly globalised more and more similar

plurality of perspectives different ways of seeing the world

crucial really important

die out become extinct

resurrected brought back to life

poorer for the loss the world loses out

regardless of despite

potential challenges faced possible difficulties

continued existence stay alive

diversity differences

make every effort try hard

ensure make sure of

survival remain alive

Pronunciation

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

ɒv ðə bɪˈliːf 
ˈwɜːθˈwaɪl 
praɪˈɒrɪˌtaɪz 
ˌprɛzə(ː)ˈveɪʃən 
ˈveərɪəs 
maɪˈnɒrɪti ˈlæŋgwɪʤɪz
dɪsˈpaɪt 
ˈlɪmɪtɪd pəʊˈtɛnʃəl ˈɛfɪkəsi 
ˈsɛntɪmənt 
ˈʤʌstɪfaɪəbl
dɪˈtræktəz 
prəˈpəʊzəl 
ɪnˈvɛstmənt 
ˈmeɪʤər ˈɪmpækt
maɪˈnɒrɪti
ɜːn ə ˈlɪvɪŋ
kənˈviːniənsɪz 
ˈmɒdən wɜːld
rɪˈkwaɪə ˈnɒlɪʤ 
məʊst ˈwaɪdli ˈspəʊkən ˈlæŋgwɪʤ
ɪnˈdɪʤɪnəs ˈpiːplz 
dɪˈzaɪə 
muːv əˈweɪ 
ˈhəʊmˈtaʊnz 
ˈmɒdən ˈwɜːkˌfɔːs
hʌmʌŋ
ˈtɪpɪk(ə)li 
siːks 
ˈneɪtɪv tʌŋ 
trəˈdɪʃənl weɪz ɒv laɪf
ˈɪntɪgreɪt 
ˈdɒmɪnənt ˈnæʃənl ˈkʌlʧə
ˈɛfəts 
əˈpəʊz 
dɪˈzaɪə 
səkˈsɛsfʊl
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
ˈkʌlʧərəl ˈvæljuː 
juːˈniːkli ˌrɛprɪˈzɛnts 
ˈkɒdɪfaɪz 
ɛksˈtɜːnl wɜːld
vɜːb ˈstrʌkʧəz 
ˌɪntəʊˈneɪʃən 
ˈrɪðəm 
ˈprɛznt ə ˈsɪŋgjʊlə weɪ 
ˌɪntərˈæktɪŋ wɪð 
dɪˈsaɪfərɪŋ 
æt lɑːʤ
nɒt prɪˈsaɪsli trænsˈleɪtəbl 
ˈjuːzəz 
ɪnˈkriːsɪŋli ˌgləʊb(ə)laɪˈzeɪd
plʊəˈrælɪti ɒv pəˈspɛktɪvz 
ˈkruːʃəl
daɪ aʊt
ˌrɛzəˈrɛktɪd 
ˈpʊərə fɔː ðə lɒs
rɪˈgɑːdlɪs ɒv 
pəʊˈtɛnʃəl ˈʧælɪnʤɪz feɪst 
kənˈtɪnju(ː)d ɪgˈzɪstəns 
daɪˈvɜːsɪti
meɪk ˈɛvri ˈɛfət 
ɪnˈʃʊə 
səˈvaɪvəl

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 are o_______________f that it would be w___________e for governments to p__________e the p_______________n of v__________s m___________________s. In my opinion, d______________________________y this s___________t is j_____________e.

D____________s of this p____________l argue that i____________t is unlikely to have a m________________t. In order for m__________y groups to e____________g and enjoy the c_____________s of the m____________d, they r_________________e of a nation’s m____________________________e. In fact, many i_____________________s themselves d________e to m_____________y from their h____________s to live in large cities and join the m________________e. For example, in the H______g people of Southeast Asia, it is t__________y the older generation that s________s to communicate in their n_______________e and preserve t______________________e. The younger generation, generally, would rather learn the most useful language and i____________e with the d_________________________e. Therefore e________s by governments o________e what individuals d_________e and are unlikely to be s____________l.

N_____________s, there is c________________e in preserving a language. A language u__________________s and c__________s the e______________d. Everything from the v_______________s and choice of nouns to the i____________n and r________m of the language p______________________y of i__________________h and d________________g the world a__________e. For example, in many languages there are words that are n___________________________e and u_________s therefore are more likely to see events and objects differently. As the world becomes i_________________________d, I would argue that the importance of a p___________________________s only becomes more c__________l. If such languages d_________t, they will likely never be r_________________d and the world will be p____________________s.

In conclusion, r_________________f the p_________________________d in preserving minority languages, their c________________________e is essential to d_____________y. Governments must therefore m____________________t to e_______________e their s_______________l.

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.theatlantic.com/international/archive/2012/07/the-disappearing-languages-of-asia/259530/

Speaking Practice

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

Talk about a language you would like to learn. Include

What is the language

Why you want to learn it

If you will learn it

Writing Practice

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

Some believe that we should invent a new language for international communication.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

IELTS Essay: Application Letter

IELTS Essay: Application Letter

This is an IELTS writing task 1 letter from the real general training exam on the topic of writing to your boss about an application letter at work.

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: Application Letter

You are interested in applying for a new position at your company but have some questions. Write a letter to you boss. In your letter include:

  • Which position you are considering
  • What questions you have about it
  • How your boss can help you decide whether or not to apply

Dear John,

I am writing to inform you of my desire to apply for the position of assistant to the regional manager and ask your advice as to my suitability for this role. The job opening was advertised in a recent company-wide memo and would involve working for Ted Johnson, who holds your equivalent position in the Lynn district.

I have several questions. Firstly, will you be willing to recommend me for this position if I choose to apply? Secondly, what are the primary role requirements for such an assistant? Finally, would it be possible to keep my current job if my application is unsuccessful?

I would also like to ask for your thoughts before submitting a final application. I’ve been working directly under you for 3 years so you can best assess my abilities. You could greatly help me by being direct and honest as to my potential and whether or not I am pursuing a viable career path.

Thank you for taking the time.

Best Regards,

David

Analysis

1. Dear John,

2. I am writing to inform you of my desire to apply for the position of assistant to the regional manager and ask your advice as to my suitability for this role. 3. The job opening was advertised in a recent company-wide memo and would involve working for Ted Johnson, who holds your equivalent position in the Lynn district.

  1. Address the letter to someone.
  2. Include your purpose for writing.
  3. Add in some more detail if you want.

1. I have several questions. 2. Firstly, will you be willing to recommend me for this position if I choose to apply? 3. Secondly, what are the primary role requirements for such an assistant? 4. Finally, would it be possible to keep my current job if my application is unsuccessful?

  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.

1. I would also like to ask for your thoughts before submitting a final application. 2. I’ve been working directly under you for 3 years so you can best assess my abilities. 3. You could greatly help me by being direct and honest as to my potential and whether or not I am pursuing a viable career path.

4. Thank you for taking the time.

5. Best Regards,

6. David

  1. Develop the last point.
  2. Keep developing it.
  3. Finish developing it.
  4. Add a final thought at the end of the letter.
  5. Use a phrase like regards or sincerely.
  6. Write your name (or a fake one) at the end.

Vocabulary

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

Dear John,

I am writing to inform you of my desire to apply for the position of assistant to the regional manager and ask your advice as to my suitability for this role. The job opening was advertised in a recent company-wide memo and would involve working for Ted Johnson, who holds your equivalent position in the Lynn district.

I have several questions. Firstly, will you be willing to recommend me for this position if I choose to apply? Secondly, what are the primary role requirements for such an assistant? Finally, would it be possible to keep my current job if my application is unsuccessful?

I would also like to ask for your thoughts before submitting a final application. I’ve been working directly under you for 3 years so you can best assess my abilities. You could greatly help me by being direct and honest as to my potential and whether or not I am pursuing a viable career path.

Thank you for taking the time.

Best Regards,

David

Answers

I am writing to inform you my purpose for the letter is

desire want

apply put in an application

position job

assistant to the regional manager working under a boss in charge of a large area

advice suggestion

suitability how well you would fit in

role job

job opening new position available

advertised opened up

recent company-wide memo message sent to the whole company

would involve is likely to entail

holds has

equivalent position same job

district area

several a bunch

willing able to do it

recommend give support

primary role requirements main job duties

would it be possible to keep could I potentially remain

current now

application noun for apply

unsuccessful doesn’t work out

thoughts ideas

submitting putting in

directly under working right below

assess form an opinion on

abilities capacities

greatly help be of much assistance

direct frank

honest truthful

potential possible

pursuing trying for

viable career path good way forward

thank you for taking the time thanks for listening

Best Regards sincerely

Pronunciation

aɪ æm ˈraɪtɪŋ tuː ɪnˈfɔːm juː 
dɪˈzaɪə 
əˈplaɪ 
pəˈzɪʃən 
əˈsɪstənt tuː ðə ˈriːʤənl ˈmænɪʤə 
ədˈvaɪs 
ˌsjuːtəˈbɪlɪti 
rəʊl
ʤɒb ˈəʊpnɪŋ 
ˈædvətaɪzd 
ˈriːsnt ˈkʌmpəni-waɪd ˈmiːməʊ 
wʊd ɪnˈvɒlv 
həʊldz 
ɪˈkwɪvələnt pəˈzɪʃən 
ˈdɪstrɪkt
ˈsɛvrəl 
ˈwɪlɪŋ 
ˌrɛkəˈmɛnd 
ˈpraɪməri rəʊl rɪˈkwaɪəmənts 
wʊd ɪt biː ˈpɒsəbl tuː kiːp 
ˈkʌrənt 
ˌæplɪˈkeɪʃ(ə)n 
ˌʌnsəkˈsɛsfʊl
θɔːts 
səbˈmɪtɪŋ 
dɪˈrɛktli ˈʌndə 
əˈsɛs 
əˈbɪlɪtiz
ˈgreɪtli hɛlp 
dɪˈrɛkt 
ˈɒnɪst 
pəʊˈtɛnʃəl 
pəˈsjuːɪŋ 
ˈvaɪəbl kəˈrɪə pɑːθ
θæŋk juː fɔː ˈteɪkɪŋ ðə taɪm
bɛst rɪˈgɑːdz

Vocabulary Practice

Remember and fill in the blanks:

Dear John,

I_______________________u of my d________e to a_______y for the p_________n of a_______________________________r and ask your a________e as to my s____________y for this r______e. The j______________g was a____________d in a r________________________o and w______________e working for Ted Johnson, who h______s your e_____________________n in the Lynn d________t.

I have s__________l questions. Firstly, will you be w________g to r______________d me for this position if I choose to apply? Secondly, what are the p__________________________s for such an assistant? Finally, w_______________________________p my c__________t job if my a____________n is u_______________l?

I would also like to ask for your t____________s before s____________g a final application. I’ve been working d_______________r you for 3 years so you can best a_________s my a___________s. You could g_____________p me by being d_______t and h_________t as to my p_____________l and whether or not I am p___________g a v_________________h.

T_______________________________e.

B______________s,

David

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/worklife/article/20140314-take-a-quiz-get-a-career

Speaking Practice

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

Write a letter to your manager about your work from the last year. Include

What you did

What you think you could improve

A training request