This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay that is only available on my Patreon based on a real question related to urban and rural life from the IELTS exam.
Here is the questions itself:
Many believe that living in a city offers greater benefits compared to life in the countryside.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sign up for that Ebook as well as lots of other ones and the opportunity to chat with me personally or take a live lesson!
Dave
This is an IELTS writing task 1 sample answer essay on the topic of a line graph showing proportions of residents living in Australia from different countries from the real IELTS exam.
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
The line chart details the proportion of residents living in Australia in millions from different regions between 1976 and 2011.
The line chart compares figures for millions of residents from the UK, Asia, and other living in Australia from 1976 to 2011. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that those from the UK experienced a steep decline, which was compensated for with a rise among others and, in particular, Asians. Total numbers also rose overall.
Individuals from the UK began the period leading all demographics at nearly 14 million before a precipitous fall to 10 million by 1986. In contrast, Asian residents grew steadily from just over 6 million to 9 million by 1991 (overtaking the UK in that year) and continued this upward trajectory to finish with a final surge to 15 million in 2011. The UK had fallen to 5 million in the same year.
Other displayed a more erratic trend with initial figures at 11 million, a moderate decline to 8 million by 1986, a consistent rise to 14 million by 2006, and a slight pullback to 13 million to end the period. Total numbers remained between 19 and 25 million throughout the period with a low point in 1996 and a peak in 2011.
1. The line chart compares figures for millions of residents from the UK, Asia, and other living in Australia from 1976 to 2011. 2. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that those from the UK experienced a steep decline, which was compensated for with a rise among others and, in particular, Asians. 3. Total numbers also rose overall.
1. Individuals from the UK began the period leading all demographics at nearly 14 million before a precipitous fall to 10 million by 1986. 2. In contrast, Asian residents grew steadily from just over 6 million to 9 million by 1991 (overtaking the UK in that year) and continued this upward trajectory to finish with a final surge to 15 million in 2011. 3. The UK had fallen to 5 million in the same year.
1. Other displayed a more erratic trend with initial figures at 11 million, a moderate decline to 8 million by 1986, a consistent rise to 14 million by 2006, and a slight pullback to 13 million to end the period. 2. Total numbers remained between 19 and 25 million throughout the period with a low point in 1996 and a peak in 2011.
What do the words in bold below mean? Take some notes on a piece of paper to aid your memory:
The line chart compares figures for millions of residents from the UK, Asia, and other living in Australia from 1976 to 2011. Looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that those from the UK experienced a steep decline, which was compensated for with a rise among others and, in particular, Asians. Total numbers also rose overall.
Individuals from the UK began the period leading all demographics at nearly 14 million before a precipitous fall to 10 million by 1986. In contrast, Asian residents grew steadily from just over 6 million to 9 million by 1991 (overtaking the UK in that year) and continued this upward trajectory to finish with a final surge to 15 million in 2011. The UK had fallen to 5 million in the same year.
Other displayed a more erratic trend with initial figures at 11 million, a moderate decline to 8 million by 1986, a consistent rise to 14 million by 2006, and a slight pullback to 13 million to end the period. Total numbers remained between 19 and 25 million throughout the period with a low point in 1996 and a peak in 2011.
compares figures shows the differences between numbers
residents people living these
looking from an overall perspective, it is readily apparent that overall
experienced underwent
steep decline fell a lot
compensated for made up for
rise increase
in particular especially
total overall numbers
overall generally
leading above
demographics groups of people
before preceding
precipitous fall big decrease
in contrast in comparison
grew steadily increased at regular intervals
overtaking becoming stronger than
continued kept on
upward trajectory increasing pattern
finish end
final surge last large increase
fallen decreased
displayed showed
erratic trend fluctuated
initial figures starting numbers
moderate decline small decrease
consistent rise steady growth
slight pullback marginal decrease
end the period end of the time surveyed
remained between staying in the middle of
throughout the period the whole time
low point lowest number
peak highest number
kəmˈpeəz ˈfɪgəz
ˈrɛzɪdənts
ˈlʊkɪŋ frɒm ən ˈəʊvərɔːl pəˈspɛktɪv, ɪt ɪz ˈrɛdɪli əˈpærənt ðæt
ɪksˈpɪərɪənst
stiːp dɪˈklaɪn
ˈkɒmpɛnseɪtɪd fɔː
raɪz
ɪn pəˈtɪkjʊlə
ˈtəʊtl
ˈəʊvərɔːl
ˈliːdɪŋ
ˌdɛməˈgræfɪks
bɪˈfɔː
prɪˈsɪpɪtəs fɔːl
ɪn ˈkɒntrɑːst
gruː ˈstɛdɪli
ˌəʊvəˈteɪkɪŋ
kənˈtɪnju(ː)d
ˈʌpwəd ˈtræʤɪktəri
ˈfɪnɪʃ
ˈfaɪnl sɜːʤ
ˈfɔːlən
dɪsˈpleɪd
ɪˈrætɪk trɛnd
ɪˈnɪʃəl ˈfɪgəz
ˈmɒdərɪt dɪˈklaɪn
kənˈsɪstənt raɪz
slaɪt ˈpʊlbæk
ɛnd ðə ˈpɪərɪəd
rɪˈmeɪnd bɪˈtwiːn
θru(ː)ˈaʊt ðə ˈpɪərɪəd
ləʊ pɔɪnt
piːk
Remember and fill in the blanks:
The line chart c_________________s for millions of r____________s from the UK, Asia, and other living in Australia from 1976 to 2011. L___________________________________________t those from the UK e_____________d a s_____________e, which was c___________________r with a r_____e among others and, i_________________r, Asians. T_______l numbers also rose o_________l.
Individuals from the UK began the period l_______g all d______________s at nearly 14 million b_________e a p_______________l to 10 million by 1986. I______________t, Asian residents g______________y from just over 6 million to 9 million by 1991 (o_____________g the UK in that year) and c__________d this u_______________y to f_________h with a f_______________e to 15 million in 2011. The UK had f_______n to 5 million in the same year.
Other d__________d a more e_____________d with i_____________s at 11 million, a m_________________e to 8 million by 1986, a c_________________e to 14 million by 2006, and a s_________________k to 13 million to e_______________d. Total numbers r_________________n 19 and 25 million t______________________d with a l_____________t in 1996 and a p_____k in 2011.
Listen to the related topic below and practice with these activities:
Read more and use these ideas to practice:
Practice with the following related questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:
Practice with the related graph below and then check with my sample answer:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of studying abroad 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
Some claim that studying abroad has great benefits for a student’s home country.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many believe that studying in another country is largely beneficial for the home country of the students in question. In my opinion, the losses entailed by these students potentially emigrating are outweighed by the expertise they often bring back.
Critics of this contention argue that many of the best and brightest students never return to their country of origin. This is especially the case as it regards developing countries, including both ordinary and famous examples. The average student from a developing nation that studies abroad in the United States or Europe, will likely have the opportunity to pursue a career there. Once hired by a company, there is a clear pathway to residency and even citizenship in the future. Since these students must meet higher admission requirements, it logically follows that a significant percentage will never return and share their newly acquired expertise with their fellow citizens.
Nonetheless, the instances above are rare and there are tangible effects from knowledgeable graduates returning to their home. Such students are capable of contributing novel outlooks and perspectives in society generally the workplace more specifically. One illustrative example of this in Vietnam is Ngo Bao Chau who studied mathematics at Oxford. After his studies abroad, he was awarded the most prestigious mathematics award, the Fields Medal, in 2007. Upon his return to Vietnam, he established a mathematics academy in Hanoi that distinguishes itself from other institutions with an innovative approach borrowed from Western schools. None of this would likely have come to pass if he had simply remained in Vietnam to study like most other students.
In conclusion, despite the risks that talented individuals may choose to reside permanently in a new country, there are more concrete benefits for the home country. Governments should therefore encourage such students with state scholarships.
1. Many believe that studying in another country is largely beneficial for the home country of the students in question. 2. In my opinion, the losses entailed by these students potentially emigrating are outweighed by the expertise they often bring back.
1. Critics of this contention argue that many of the best and brightest students never return to their country of origin. 2. This is especially the case as it regards developing countries, including both ordinary and famous examples. 3. The average student from a developing nation that studies abroad in the United States or 4. Europe, will likely have the opportunity to pursue a career there. 5. Once hired by a company, there is a clear pathway to residency and even citizenship in the future. 6. Since these students must meet higher admission requirements, it logically follows that a significant percentage will never return and share their newly acquired expertise with their fellow citizens.
1. Nonetheless, the instances above are rare and there are tangible effects from knowledgeable graduates returning to their home. 2. Such students are capable of contributing novel outlooks and perspectives in society generally the workplace more specifically. 3. One illustrative example of this in Vietnam is Ngo Bao Chau who studied mathematics at Oxford. 4. After his studies abroad, he was awarded the most prestigious mathematics award, the Fields Medal, in 2007. 5. Upon his return to Vietnam, he established a mathematics academy in Hanoi that distinguishes itself from other institutions with an innovative approach borrowed from Western schools. 6. None of this would likely have come to pass if he had simply remained in Vietnam to study like most other students.
1. In conclusion, despite the risks that talented individuals may choose to reside permanently in a new country, there are more concrete benefits for the home country. 2. Governments should therefore encourage such students with state scholarships.
What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
Many believe that studying in another country is largely beneficial for the home country of the students in question. In my opinion, the losses entailed by these students potentially emigrating are outweighed by the expertise they often bring back.
Critics of this contention argue that many of the best and brightest students never return to their country of origin. This is especially the case as it regards developing countries, including both ordinary and famous examples. The average student from a developing nation that studies abroad in the United States or Europe, will likely have the opportunity to pursue a career there. Once hired by a company, there is a clear pathway to residency and even citizenship in the future. Since these students must meet higher admission requirements, it logically follows that a significant percentage will never return and share their newly acquired expertise with their fellow citizens.
Nonetheless, the instances above are rare and there are tangible effects from knowledgeable graduates returning to their home. Such students are capable of contributing novel outlooks and perspectives in society generally the workplace more specifically. One illustrative example of this in Vietnam is Ngo Bao Chau who studied mathematics at Oxford. After his studies abroad, he was awarded the most prestigious mathematics award, the Fields Medal, in 2007. Upon his return to Vietnam, he established a mathematics academy in Hanoi that distinguishes itself from other institutions with an innovative approach borrowed from Western schools. None of this would likely have come to pass if he had simply remained in Vietnam to study like most other students.
In conclusion, despite the risks that talented individuals may choose to reside permanently in a new country, there are more concrete benefits for the home country. Governments should therefore encourage such students with state scholarships.
largely beneficial mostly good
home country nation you are from
in question relevant here
losses entailed what has been taken away
potentially emigrating possible moving
outweighed stronger than
expertise knowledgeable
bring back return
critics detractors
contention opinion
best and brightest smartest
country of origin nation you are from
especially the case as it regards in particular when it has to do with
average normal
studies abroad studying in another country
likely have the opportunity probably have the chance
pursue a career follow a job
hired employed
clear pathway good route
residency living in a country
citizenship becoming a citizen of a country
since because
meet higher admission requirements hard to get into schools
logically follows makes sense that
significant percentage sizeable proportion
return go back
share give information about
newly acquired expertise learned new information
fellow citizens other residents
nonetheless regardless
rare uncommon
tangible concrete
knowledgeable graduates smart people who have finished school
capable competent
contributing novel outlooks giving new opinions, perspectives
perspectives ways of seeing the world
generally overall
more specifically especially
illustrative shows this point
awarded given
prestigious well-regarded
established founded
mathematics academy math school
distinguishes differentiates
institutions schools, buildings, etc.
innovative approach new method
borrowed from taken from
come to pass happened
remained stayed
despite regardless of
risks threats
reside permanently stay forever
concrete real
encourage foster
state scholarships government grants
Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:
ˈlɑːʤli ˌbɛnɪˈfɪʃəl
həʊm ˈkʌntri
ɪn ˈkwɛsʧən
ˈlɒsɪz ɪnˈteɪld
pəʊˈtɛnʃəli ˈɛmɪgreɪtɪŋ
aʊtˈweɪd
ˌɛkspɜːˈtiːz
brɪŋ bæk
ˈkrɪtɪks
kənˈtɛnʃən
bɛst ænd ˈbraɪtɪst
ˈkʌntri ɒv ˈɒrɪʤɪn
ɪsˈpɛʃəli ðə keɪs æz ɪt rɪˈgɑːdz
ˈævərɪʤ
ˈstʌdiz əˈbrɔːd
ˈlaɪkli hæv ði ˌɒpəˈtjuːnɪti
pəˈsjuː ə kəˈrɪə
ˈhaɪəd
klɪə ˈpɑːθweɪ
ˈrɛzɪdənsi
ˈsɪtɪznʃɪp
sɪns
miːt ˈhaɪər ədˈmɪʃ(ə)n rɪˈkwaɪəmənts
ˈlɒʤɪkəli ˈfɒləʊz
sɪgˈnɪfɪkənt pəˈsɛntɪʤ
rɪˈtɜːn
ʃeə
ˈnjuːli əˈkwaɪəd ˌɛkspɜːˈtiːz
ˈfɛləʊ ˈsɪtɪznz
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
reə
ˈtænʤəbl
ˈnɒlɪʤəbl ˈgrædjʊəts
ˈkeɪpəbl
kənˈtrɪbju(ː)tɪŋ ˈnɒvəl ˈaʊtlʊks
pəˈspɛktɪvz
ˈʤɛnərəli
mɔː spəˈsɪfɪk(ə)li
ˈɪləstreɪtɪv
əˈwɔːdɪd
prɛˈstɪʤəs
ɪsˈtæblɪʃt
ˌmæθɪˈmætɪks əˈkædəmi
dɪsˈtɪŋgwɪʃɪz
ˌɪnstɪˈtjuːʃənz
ɪnˈnɒvətɪv əˈprəʊʧ
ˈbɒrəʊd frɒm
kʌm tuː pɑːs
rɪˈmeɪnd
dɪsˈpaɪt
rɪsks
rɪˈzaɪd ˈpɜːmənəntli
ˈkɒnkriːt
ɪnˈkʌrɪʤ
steɪt ˈskɒləʃɪps
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 studying in another country is l______________________l for the h________________y of the students i_________________n. In my opinion, the l_________________d by these students p_______________________g are o________________d by they e______________e the often b_____________k.
C__________s of this c_______________n argue that many of the b____________________________t students never return to their c___________________n. This is e_________________________________s developing countries, including both ordinary and famous examples. The a______________e student from a developing nation that s__________________d in the United States or Europe, will l_______________________y to p________________r there. Once h_____d by a company, there is a c______________y to r___________y and even c____________p in the future. S____e these students must m____________________________________s, it l___________________s that a s_____________________e will never r__________n and s_______e their n___________________________________e with their f_________________s.
N_____________s, the instances above are r____e and there are t________e effects from k_________________________s returning to their home. Such students are c__________e of c_________________________s and p_____________s in society g____________y the workplace m_____________________y. One i_______________e example of this in Vietnam is Ngo Bao Chau who studied mathematics at Oxford. After his studies abroad, he was a________________d the most p_____________s mathematics award, the Fields Medal, in 2007. Upon his return to Vietnam, he e______________d a m________________________y in Hanoi that d________________s itself from other i_______________s with an i_____________________h b__________________m Western schools. None of this would likely have c_________________s if he had simply r_____________d in Vietnam to study like most other students.
In conclusion, d_______e the r_____s that talented individuals may choose to r________________________y in a new country, there are more c_________e benefits for the home country. Governments should therefore e___________e such students with s____________________s.
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:
Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:
Practice with the same basic topic below and then check with my sample answer:
Compared to the past, more people are now studying abroad because it is more convenient and cheaper than before.
Do you think this is beneficial to the foreign student’s home country?
Will this trend change much in the future?
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of hard work from the real IELTS general training exam.
Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts so that I can continue publishing these essays! You can also sign up for private live lessons with my through Patreon!
Dave
Some people work harder than other.
Why is this?
Is this a positive or negative habit?
Some people work harder than others. In my opinion, this is due to natural differences in temperament and it is largely a positive characteristic, though there are exceptions.
The main motivating factor behind disparities in work ethic is character. The extent to which this is genetic or imbued by parents and other influences during childhood is in debate. There can be little doubt, however, that some are born with a natural proclivity to focus and the willpower to push themselves to accomplish their work. Well known examples of this abound in the biographies of great men. Naturally, in each of these cases, there tends to be situational factors underpinning such ambitious drives and these include a supportive family, access to quality education, and lack of neglect or abuse.
On the whole, working hard is a positive trait. This does not hold true in exceptional instances where individuals are surrounded by psychological problems and work to the detriment of their own well-being. Most employees and entrepreneurs can balance home and work life and therefore minimise the tradeoffs. The advantages, on the other hand, are substantial. A diligent worker can expect to earn more money, which can then be used to support their family or invested back into a passion project. Elon Musk is a quintessential example of a hard-working businessman who has profited individually and now contributes greatly to the advancement of mankind through a variety of forward-looking initiatives.
In conclusion, hard work has its source in the make-up of an individual and results in mostly positive benefits. Nonetheless, those who are driven must be wary of losing sight of their true goals as they achieve higher levels of success.
1. Some people work harder than others. 2. In my opinion, this is due to natural differences in temperament and it is largely a positive characteristic, though there are exceptions.
1. The main motivating factor behind disparities in work ethic is character. 2. The extent to which this is genetic or imbued by parents and other influences during childhood is in debate. 3. There can be little doubt, however, that some are born with a natural proclivity to focus and the willpower to push themselves to accomplish their work. 4. Well known examples of this abound in the biographies of great men. 5. Naturally, in each of these cases, there tends to be situational factors underpinning such ambitious drives and these include a supportive family, access to quality education, and lack of neglect or abuse.
1. On the whole, working hard is a positive trait. 2. This does not hold true in exceptional instances where individuals are surrounded by psychological problems and work to the detriment of their own well-being. 3. Most employees and entrepreneurs can balance home and work life and therefore minimise the tradeoffs. 4. The advantages, on the other hand, are substantial. 5. A diligent worker can expect to earn more money, which can then be used to support their family or invested back into a passion project. 6. Elon Musk is a quintessential example of a hard-working businessman who has profited individually and now contributes greatly to the advancement of mankind through a variety of forward-looking initiatives.
1. In conclusion, hard work has its source in the make-up of an individual and results in mostly positive benefits. 2. Nonetheless, those who are driven must be wary of losing sight of their true goals as they achieve higher levels of success.
What do the words in bold below mean? Take notes on a piece of paper so that you remember them better:
Some people work harder than others. In my opinion, this is due to natural differences in temperament and it is largely a positive characteristic, though there are exceptions.
The main motivating factor behind disparities in work ethic is character. The extent to which this is genetic or imbued by parents and other influences during childhood is in debate. There can be little doubt, however, that some are born with a natural proclivity to focus and the willpower to push themselves to accomplish their work. Well known examples of this abound in the biographies of great men. Naturally, in each of these cases, there tends to be situational factors underpinning such ambitious drives and these include a supportive family, access to quality education, and lack of neglect or abuse.
On the whole, working hard is a positive trait. This does not hold true in exceptional instances where individuals are surrounded by psychological problems and work to the detriment of their own well-being. Most employees and entrepreneurs can balance home and work life and therefore minimise the tradeoffs. The advantages, on the other hand, are substantial. A diligent worker can expect to earn more money, which can then be used to support their family or invested back into a passion project. Elon Musk is a quintessential example of a hard-working businessman who has profited individually and now contributes greatly to the advancement of mankind through a variety of forward-looking initiatives.
In conclusion, hard work has its source in the make-up of an individual and results in mostly positive benefits. Nonetheless, those who are driven must be wary of losing sight of their true goals as they achieve higher levels of success.
natural differences inherent disparities
temperament personality
largely mostly
characteristic quality
exceptions outside the norm
main motivating factor primary reason
behind underpinning
disparities differences
work ethic working hard
character how a person is
extent to which this is level this relates to
genetic biological
imbued fostered, imparted
influences people who shape someone
in debate open to question
there can be little doubt not much chance
born with inborn
natural proclivity born with it
focus pay attention to
willpower self-control
push themselves force themselves
accomplish achieve
well known examples of this abound famous instances of this are very common
biographies books about a person’s life
naturally obviously
in each of these cases in both instances
tends to be situational factors contextual matters
underpinning serving as a foundation for
ambitious drives desire to achieve a lot
include make part of
supportive family caring parents
access be able to get to
quality education good schools
lack not have
neglect not taking care of
abuse being hurt
on the whole in general
trait quality
not hold true not still the case
exceptional instances outliers, exceptions
surrounded all around
psychological problems mental issues
detriment disadvantage
well-being health
entrepreneurs people who start their own business
balance keep both equal
therefore minimise as a result keep under control
tradeoffs disadvantages
on the other hand however
substantial meaningful
diligent caring
can expect to earn will likely make
support their family take care of a wife and kids
invested back put money back into
passion project something you care greatly about
quintessential example good instance
hard-working businessman good worker
profited gained
contributes greatly adds a lot to
advancement of mankind making the world better
variety lots of different kinds
forward-looking initiatives ideas for the future
source foundation
make-up constitution, character
results in leads to
nonetheless regardless of
driven motivated
wary worried about
losing sight not paying attention to, forgetting about
true goals real aims
achieve higher levels of success become more successful
ˈnæʧrəl ˈdɪfrənsɪz
ˈtɛmpərəmənt
ˈlɑːʤli
ˌkærɪktəˈrɪstɪk
ɪkˈsɛpʃənz
meɪn ˈməʊtɪveɪtɪŋ ˈfæktə
bɪˈhaɪnd
dɪsˈpærɪtiz
wɜːk ˈɛθɪk
ˈkærɪktə
ɪksˈtɛnt tuː wɪʧ ðɪs ɪz
ʤɪˈnɛtɪk
ɪmˈbjuːd
ˈɪnflʊənsɪz
ɪn dɪˈbeɪt
ðeə kæn biː ˈlɪtl daʊt
bɔːn wɪð
ˈnæʧrəl prəˈklɪvɪti
ˈfəʊkəs
ˈwɪlˌpaʊə
pʊʃ ðəmˈsɛlvz
əˈkɒmplɪʃ
wɛl nəʊn ɪgˈzɑːmplz ɒv ðɪs əˈbaʊnd
baɪˈɒgrəfiz
ˈnæʧrəli
ɪn iːʧ ɒv ðiːz ˈkeɪsɪz
tɛndz tuː biː ˌsɪtjʊˈeɪʃən(ə)l ˈfæktəz
ˌʌndəˈpɪnɪŋ
æmˈbɪʃəs draɪvz
ɪnˈkluːd
səˈpɔːtɪv ˈfæmɪli
ˈæksɛs
ˈkwɒlɪti ˌɛdju(ː)ˈkeɪʃən
læk
nɪˈglɛkt
əˈbjuːs
ɒn ðə həʊl
treɪt
nɒt həʊld truː
ɪkˈsɛpʃənl ˈɪnstənsɪz
səˈraʊndɪd
ˌsaɪkəˈlɒʤɪkəl ˈprɒbləmz
ˈdɛtrɪmənt
wɛl-ˈbiːɪŋ
ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːz
ˈbæləns
ˈðeəfɔː ˈmɪnɪmaɪz
treɪd ɒfs
ɒn ði ˈʌðə hænd
səbˈstænʃəl
ˈdɪlɪʤənt
kæn ɪksˈpɛkt tuː ɜːn
səˈpɔːt ðeə ˈfæmɪli
ɪnˈvɛstɪd bæk
ˈpæʃən ˈprɒʤɛkt
ˌkwɪntɪˈsɛnʃəl ɪgˈzɑːmpl
ˈhɑːdˌwɜːkɪŋ ˈbɪznɪsmən
ˈprɒfɪtɪd
kənˈtrɪbju(ː)ts ˈgreɪtli
ədˈvɑːnsmənt ɒv mænˈkaɪnd
vəˈraɪəti
ˈfɔːwədˈlʊkɪŋ ɪˈnɪʃɪətɪvz
sɔːs
ˈmeɪkʌp
rɪˈzʌlts ɪn
ˌnʌnðəˈlɛs
ˈdrɪvn
ˈweəri
ˈluːzɪŋ saɪt
truː gəʊlz
əˈʧiːv ˈhaɪə ˈlɛvlz ɒv səkˈsɛs
I recommend getting a pencil and piece of paper because that aids memory. Then write down the missing vocabulary from my sample answer in your notebook:
Some people work harder than others. In my opinion, this is due to n_________________________s in t______________t and it is l_________y a positive c__________________c, though there are e____________s.
The m__________________________r b_______d d______________s in w_______________c is c____________r. The e________________________s g__________c or i_________d by parents and other i___________s during childhood is i___________e. T___________________t, however, that some are b___________h a n_____________________y to f_______s and the w___________r to p___________________s to a_____________h their work. W_______________________________d in the b______________s of great men. N___________y, i_______________________s, there t___________e s__________________s u____________g such a______________s and these i_________e a s___________________y, a_________s to q__________________n, and l_____k of n_______t or a_______e.
O____________e, working hard is a positive t______t. This does n______________e in e___________________s where individuals are s______________d by p___________________s and work to the d__________t of their own w____________g. Most employees and e_____________s can b_________e home and work life and t_______________________e the t___________s. The advantages, o__________________d, are s_____________l. A d__________t worker c_________________n more money, which can then be used to s_________________y or i_______________k into a p_________________t. Elon Musk is a q______________________e of a h__________________________n who has p__________d individually and now c_______________________y to the a______________________d through a v__________y of f______________________________s.
In conclusion, hard work has its s________e in the m_________p of an individual and r___________n mostly positive benefits. N______________s, those who are d_______n must be w_____y of l______________t of their t___________s as they a_________________________s.
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:
https://www.newyorker.com/news/daily-comment/you-really-dont-need-to-work-so-much
Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:
Practice with the related topic below and then check with my sample answer:
In many countries, people are spending more time in their workplace.
Why is this?
Is this a negative or positive development?
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of laws to limit working hours from the real IELTS exam.
Please consider supporting me on Patreon.com/howtodoielts to receive my exclusive IELTS Ebooks! If you want a one-on-one private lesson with me for speaking or writing – you can also sign up there on Patreon!
Dave
Some countries have introduced laws to limit working hours for employees.
Why are these laws introduced?
Do you think they are a positive or negative development?
An increasing number of nations have enacted laws to protect average working hours. In my opinion, these laws are meant to limit exploitive practices and they are advantageous if enforced well.
Lawmakers typically argue these reforms defend employees. Before labor laws existed, it was common for corporations to require long working days under extreme conditions. Modern stipulations that limit working hours are responding to these deeply-rooted historic concerns. For example, in many developing nations, the labor laws are often not strict, leading to so-called ‘sweatshops’ where employees work long hours in dangerous environments for little pay. This mistreatment has been exposed in the media and now citizens demand better treatment. The laws therefore establish basic guidelines to prevent employees from working excessive hours.
On the whole, these laws are positive as long as they are nuanced and enforced consistently. There are many countries where such laws have been passed but in practice they are not followed and workers have little recourse to report infractions. These laws must be strictly monitored including preventing employers from firing employees who make complaints. Moreover, there are possible exceptions. A factory worker, for example, should never be required to work too many hours as they are likely earning a low wage and putting their health at risk. However, many white collar workers, such as those at a start-up, may desire to work 90+ hour workweeks due to an overriding passion for a project. The law must discriminate between these dissimilar cases.
In conclusion, labor laws related to maximum working hours are meant to safeguard workers’ rights and are positive generally depending on their execution. It is important that governments propose laws they believe are enforceable and beneficial for the whole of society.
1. An increasing number of nations have enacted laws to protect average working hours. 2. In my opinion, these laws are meant to limit exploitive practices and they are advantageous if enforced well.
1. Lawmakers typically argue these reforms defend employees. 2. Before labor laws existed, it was common for corporations to require long working days under extreme conditions. 3. Modern stipulations that limit working hours are responding to these deeply-rooted historic concerns. 4. For example, in many developing nations, the labor laws are often not strict, leading to so-called ‘sweatshops’ where employees work long hours in dangerous environments for little pay. 5. This mistreatment has been exposed in the media and now citizens demand better treatment. 6. The laws therefore establish basic guidelines to prevent employees from working excessive hours.
1. On the whole, these laws are positive as long as they are nuanced and enforced consistently. 2. There are many countries where such laws have been passed but in practice they are not followed and workers have little recourse to report infractions. 3. These laws must be strictly monitored including preventing employers from firing employees who make complaints. 4. Moreover, there are possible exceptions. 5. A factory worker, for example, should never be required to work too many hours as they are likely earning a low wage and putting their health at risk. 6. However, many white collar workers, such as those at a start-up, may desire to work 90+ hour workweeks due to an overriding passion for a project. 7. The law must discriminate between these dissimilar cases.
1. In conclusion, labor laws related to maximum working hours are meant to safeguard workers’ rights and are positive generally depending on their execution. 2. It is important that governments propose laws they believe are enforceable and beneficial for the whole of society.
What do the words in bold below mean? Make some notes on paper to aid memory and then check below.
An increasing number of nations have enacted laws to protect average working hours. In my opinion, these laws are meant to limit exploitive practices and they are advantageous if enforced well.
Lawmakers typically argue these reforms defend employees. Before labor laws existed, it was common for corporations to require long working days under extreme conditions. Modern stipulations that limit working hours are responding to these deeply-rooted historic concerns. For example, in many developing nations, the labor laws are often not strict, leading to so-called ‘sweatshops’ where employees work long hours in dangerous environments for little pay. This mistreatment has been exposed in the media and now citizens demand better treatment. The laws therefore establish basic guidelines to prevent employees from working excessive hours.
On the whole, these laws are positive as long as they are nuanced and enforced consistently. There are many countries where such laws have been passed but in practice they are not followed and workers have little recourse to report infractions. These laws must be strictly monitored including preventing employers from firing employees who make complaints. Moreover, there are possible exceptions. A factory worker, for example, should never be required to work too many hours as they are likely earning a low wage and putting their health at risk. However, many white collar workers, such as those at a start-up, may desire to work 90+ hour workweeks due to an overriding passion for a project. The law must discriminate between these dissimilar cases.
In conclusion, labor laws related to maximum working hours are meant to safeguard workers’ rights and are positive generally depending on their execution. It is important that governments propose laws they believe are enforceable and beneficial for the whole of society.
increasing growing
enacted laws pass regulations
protect average safeguard normal
meant supposed to be for
limit exploitive practices keep under control taking advantage of workers
advantageous positive
if enforced well assuming they are actively followed
lawmakers the government
reforms changes
defend safeguard
labor laws rules safeguarding workers
common prevalent
corporations companies
require need
under extreme conditions in bad working environments
modern stipulations new rules
responding addressing
deeply-rooted historic concerns worries from a long time in the past
developing nations poorer countries
strict severe
leading causing
so-called often termed
‘sweatshops’ factories where workers are mistreated
dangerous environments unsafe workplaces
little pay not much of a salary
mistreatment treated badly
exposed made people aware of it
demand better treatment ask strongly for fairer laws
establish basic guidelines put in place minimum rules
prevent stop
excessive too strong
on the whole overall
as long as assuming that
nuanced complex
enforced consistently everyone follows them all the time
passed enacted
in practice in reality
recourse way to complain
report infractions make complaints about breaking the rules
strictly monitored watched closely
preventing stopping
firing getting laid off
make complaints report a problem
possible exceptions potential cases outside the norm
factory worker person working in a factory
earning a low wage not making much money
putting their health at risk easy to get sick, hurt
white collar workers people with good office jobs
start-up new company
90+ hour workweeks really long hours
due to because of
overriding passion really strong desire
discriminate between know the different between
dissimilar cases different examples
maximum the most
safeguard protect
depending on in some cases
execution how they are done
propose laws suggest rules
enforceable can be enforced, followed
beneficial good
the whole of society everyone
Practice saying the vocabulary below and use this tip about Google voice search:
ɪnˈkriːsɪŋ
ɪˈnæktɪd lɔːz
prəˈtɛkt ˈævərɪʤ
mɛnt
ˈlɪmɪt ˈɛksplɔɪtɪv ˈpræktɪsɪz
ˌædvənˈteɪʤəs
ɪf ɪnˈfɔːst wɛl
ˈlɔːˌmeɪkəz
ˌriːˈfɔːmz
dɪˈfɛnd
ˈleɪbə lɔːz
ˈkɒmən
ˌkɔːpəˈreɪʃənz
rɪˈkwaɪə
ˈʌndər ɪksˈtriːm kənˈdɪʃənz
ˈmɒdən ˌstɪpjʊˈleɪʃənz
rɪsˈpɒndɪŋ
ˈdiːpli-ˈruːtɪd hɪsˈtɒrɪk kənˈsɜːnz
dɪˈvɛləpɪŋ ˈneɪʃənz
strɪkt
ˈliːdɪŋ
ˈsəʊˈkɔːld
ˈswɛtˌʃɒps
ˈdeɪnʤrəs ɪnˈvaɪərənmənts
ˈlɪtl peɪ
mɪsˈtriːtmənt
ɪksˈpəʊzd
dɪˈmɑːnd ˈbɛtə ˈtriːtmənt
ɪsˈtæblɪʃ ˈbeɪsɪk ˈgaɪdlaɪnz
prɪˈvɛnt
ɪkˈsɛsɪv
ɒn ðə həʊl
æz lɒŋ æz
nju(ː)ˈɑːnst
ɪnˈfɔːst kənˈsɪstəntli
pɑːst
ɪn ˈpræktɪs
rɪˈkɔːs
rɪˈpɔːt ɪnˈfrækʃənz
ˈstrɪktli ˈmɒnɪtəd
prɪˈvɛntɪŋ
ˈfaɪərɪŋ
meɪk kəmˈpleɪnts
ˈpɒsəbl ɪkˈsɛpʃənz
ˈfæktəri ˈwɜːkə
ˈɜːnɪŋ ə ləʊ weɪʤ
ˈpʊtɪŋ ðeə hɛlθ æt rɪsk
waɪt ˈkɒlə ˈwɜːkəz
ˈstɑːtʌp
90+ ˈaʊə ˈwɜːkwiːks
djuː tuː
ˌəʊvəˈraɪdɪŋ ˈpæʃən
dɪsˈkrɪmɪnɪt bɪˈtwiːn
ˌdɪˈsɪmɪlə ˈkeɪsɪz
ˈmæksɪməm
ˈseɪfgɑːd
dɪˈpɛndɪŋ ɒn
ˌɛksɪˈkjuːʃən
prəˈpəʊz lɔːz
ɪnˈfɔːsəbl
ˌbɛnɪˈfɪʃəl
ðə həʊl ɒv səˈsaɪəti
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:
An i___________g number of nations have e_____________s to p_____________e working hours. In my opinion, these laws are m_______t to l___________________s and they are a________________s i_________________l.
L______________s typically argue these r_________s d________d employees. Before l____________s existed, it was c_________n for c_____________s to r__________e long working days u__________________________s. M_____________________s that limit working hours are r___________g to these d___________________________________s. For example, in many d_______________________s, the labor laws are often not s_______t, l_________g to s___________d ‘s_____________s’ where employees work long hours in d_____________________________s for l_________y. This m______________t has been e_________d in the media and now citizens d_______________________t. The laws therefore e_____________________s to p_________t employees from working e_____________e hours.
O_______________e, these laws are positive a__________s they are n________d and e______________________y. There are many countries where such laws have been p________d but i__________e they are not followed and workers have little r__________e to r___________________s. These laws must be s_____________________d including p___________g employers from f_______g employees who m__________________s. Moreover, there are p______________________s. A f__________________r, for example, should never be required to work too many hours as they are likely e______________________e and p_____________________________k. However, many w____________________s, such as those at a s_________p, may desire to work 9________________________s d________o an o____________________n for a project. The law must d_______________________n these d________________s.
In conclusion, labor laws related to m___________m working hours are meant to s____________d workers’ rights and are positive generally d______________n their e_________________n. It is important that governments p_____________s they believe are e_________________e and b______________l for t______________________y.
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
Read more about this topic and use these ideas to practice:
https://www.theatlantic.com/politics/archive/2018/03/american-immigration-service-slavery/555824/
Practice with the following speaking questions from the real IELTS speaking exam:
Practice with the same basic topic below and then check with my sample answer:
In many countries, people are spending more time in their workplace.
Why is this?
Is this a negative or positive development?