This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of whether or not schools should teach children about the science of food and its preparation from the real IELTS exam.
For my exclusive IELTS Ebooks, support me on Patreon here!
Dave
IELTS Essay: Food Science
Some people think students should study the science of food and how to prepare it. Others think students should spend time on important subjects.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some today advocate the teaching of food science and preparation in schools as a key 21st century skill. In my opinion, though the expense is a potential obstacle, such a proposal is justifiable.
Opponents of this proposed curriculum shift argue that it would only benefit more affluent school systems. The majority of schools, particularly those in inner cities and remote rural regions, struggle already to maintain quality facilities and employ experienced, dedicated teachers. The idea of building a kitchen for student-use and keeping it stocked with ingredients as well as the sophisticated equipment required to teach about and practice molecular gastronomy is simply unrealistic. Critics justly point out that such money would be better spent maintaining more essential infrastructure such as the fields, classrooms, and school buildings themselves.
Nonetheless, assuming government funding is available, this would be an ideal method of combining a practical skill with scientific theory. One of the most common complaints among students after graduation is that the vast majority of their studies were impractical and did not prepare them for adulthood. Learning to cook on its own would go a long way towards answering this criticism. However, the true gains would come from the linking of theory and practice. Many scientific theories are abstract and difficult to both understand and retain later in life. The practical application in cooking would not only help students grasp the concepts initially but repeated review from making meals in one’s daily life would likely ensure permanent understanding.
In conclusion, food science may seem trivial and its application might pose financial hurdles but it is worth enacting in order to educate students well. Where possible, governments should allocate the necessary funding.
Analysis
1. Some today advocate the teaching of food science and preparation in schools as a key 21st century skill. 2. In my opinion, though the expense is a potential obstacle, such a proposal is justifiable.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Opponents of this proposed curriculum shift argue that it would only benefit more affluent school systems. 2. The majority of schools, particularly those in inner cities and remote rural regions, struggle already to maintain quality facilities and employ experienced, dedicated teachers. 3. The idea of building a kitchen for student-use and keeping it stocked with ingredients as well as the sophisticated equipment required to teach about and practice molecular gastronomy is simply unrealistic. 4. Critics justly point out that such money would be better spent maintaining more essential infrastructure such as the fields, classrooms, and school buildings themselves.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with a hypothetical example.
Continue to develop it as fully as possible.
1. Nonetheless, assuming government funding is available, this would be an ideal method of combining a practical skill with scientific theory. 2. One of the most common complaints among students after graduation is that the vast majority of their studies were impractical and did not prepare them for adulthood. 3. Learning to cook on its own would go a long way towards answering this criticism. 4. However, the true gains would come from the linking of theory and practice. 5. Many scientific theories are abstract and difficult to both understand and retain later in life. 6. The practical application in cooking would not only help students grasp the concepts initially but repeated review from making meals in one’s daily life would likely ensure permanent understanding.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
The more specific, the better.
Develop the example.
Conclude the paragraph or finish developing your last idea.
1. In conclusion, food science may seem trivial and its application might pose financial hurdles but it is worth enacting in order to educate students well. 2. Where possible, governments should allocate the necessary funding.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Some today advocate the teaching of food science and preparation in schools as a key 21st century skill. In my opinion, though the expense is a potential obstacle, such a proposal is justifiable.
Opponents of this proposed curriculumshift argue that it would only benefit more affluent school systems. The majority of schools, particularly those in inner cities and remote rural regions, struggle already to maintain quality facilities and employ experienced, dedicated teachers. The idea of building a kitchen for student-use and keeping it stocked with ingredients as well as the sophisticated equipment required to teach about and practice molecular gastronomy is simply unrealistic. Critics justly point out that such money would be better spent maintaining more essential infrastructure such as the fields, classrooms, and school buildings themselves.
Nonetheless, assuming government funding is available, this would be an ideal method of combining a practical skill with scientific theory. One of the most common complaints among students after graduation is that the vast majority of their studies were impractical and did not prepare them for adulthood. Learning to cook on its own would go a long way towardsanswering this criticism. However, the true gains would come from the linking of theory and practice. Many scientific theories are abstract and difficult to both understand and retain later in life. The practical application in cooking would not only help students grasp the conceptsinitially but repeated review from making meals in one’s daily life would likely ensure permanent understanding.
In conclusion, food science may seem trivial and its application might pose financial hurdles but it is worth enacting in order to educate students well. Where possible, governments should allocate the necessary funding.
Answers
advocate are in favour of
food science molecular gastronomy
preparation making
key 21st century skill important future ability
expense cost
potential obstacle possible hurdle
proposal idea
justifiable good reason for
opponents critics
proposed curriculumshift suggested change to what is studied in school
argue point out
affluent school systems rich schools
majority most of
particularly especially
inner cities tough parts of cities
remote rural regions far away countryside
struggle have difficulty with
maintain quality facilities keep the school up to standard
employ experienced hire good
dedicated caring
student-use for students to use
keeping it stocked full of supplies
as well as also
sophisticated equipment fancy kitchen appliances
molecular gastronomy food science
unrealistic not feasible
critics justly point out opponents rightly argue
maintaining more essential infrastructure keep up the quality of more important buildings
fields pitches
nonetheless regardless
assuming if it is true
ideal method perfect way
combining putting together
practical skill useful ability
scientific theory possible explanation for nature
most common complaints among many are upset about
graduation finishing school
vast majority by far the most of
impractical not useful
adulthood as adults
go a long way towardsanswering this criticism helps to combat
true gains real benefits
linking combining
scientific theories ideas
abstract not practical, concrete
retain later in life remember later
practical application can be used in the real world
grasp the conceptsinitially understand right away
repeated review revise over and over
making meals in one’s daily life cooking
ensure permanent understanding make sure they retain the info
trivial unimportant
application use
pose financial hurdles challenges related to money
Some today a____________e the teaching of f________________e and p______________n in schools as a k_______________________l. In my opinion, though the e____________e is a p____________________e, such a p___________l is j__________________e.
O_______________s of this p_______________________________t a______e that it would only benefit more a_______________________s. The m__________y of schools, p_______________y those in i_______________s and r_______________________s, s_____________e already to m___________________________s and e______________________d, d_____________d teachers. The idea of building a kitchen for s______________e and k_____________________d with ingredients a_____________s the s_________________________t required to teach about and practice m__________________________y is simply u_______________c. C__________________________t that such money would be better spent m__________________________________________e such as the f_________s, classrooms, and school buildings themselves.
N______________s, a____________g government funding is available, this would be an i________________d of c_______________g a p_________________l with s______________________y. One of the m_____________________________g students after g______________n is that the v____________________y of their studies were i_______________________l and did not prepare them for a____________________d. Learning to cook on its own would g______________________________________m. However, the t_______________s would come from the l_____________g of theory and practice. Many s____________________s are a__________t and difficult to both understand and r____________________e. The p________________________n in cooking would not only help students g_____________________________y but r__________________w from m______________________________e would likely e________________________________g.
In conclusion, food science may seem t___________l and its a________________n might p___________________________s but it is worth e_______________g in order to educate students well. W________________e, governments should a___________e the n______________________g.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of whether parents or governments are responsible for transporting children to and school from the real IELTS general training exam.
For my exclusive IELTS Ebooks, support me on Patreon here!
Dave
IELTS Essay: Transporting Children
Some people think parents are responsible for transporting their children to school. Others think it is the government’s responsibility.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Many feel that parents should take their children to school, while others feel this is a governmental responsibility. In my opinion, this is chiefly the duty of governments.
Those who feel parents should be in charge of transportation to school argue this is an important element of family life. Most people have fond memories of their parents driving, walking, or taking public transport with them to school and this is a potential time for bonding. Early in the morning on the way to school children and parents are likely to be at their most energetic. After a long day at school and work, both parties will probably be tired or busy. This therefore means the morning commute is an opportunity to catch up, make plans for the day, and enjoy each other’s company.
Nonetheless, most families rely on government support in this area for a number of reasons. Firstly, many families lack the time to take their children to school in the morning. This is particularly the case if they have more than one child and they attend different schools. A parent living in a rural area, for example, might have to be at work early in the morning and simply does not have the flexible schedule to allow for multiple morning trips. Secondly, most people depend on school buses and consider this a key part of their tax contributions. This is particularly true for less privileged families, who might not have private transportation, or in single parent homes where time is at a premium.
In conclusion, the familial gains of a trip to school in the morning are outweighed by the very practical concerns of average citizens. Governments should continue to ease the burden on parents by providing transportation to and from school.
Analysis
1. Many feel that parents should take their children to school, while others feel this is a governmental responsibility. 2. In my opinion, this is chiefly the duty of governments.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those who feel parents should be in charge of transportation to school argue this is an important element of family life. 2. Most people have fond memories of their parents driving, walking, or taking public transport with them to school and this is a potential time for bonding. 3. Early in the morning on the way to school children and parents are likely to be at their most energetic. 4. After a long day at school and work, both parties will probably be tired or busy. 5. This therefore means the morning commute is an opportunity to catch up, make plans for the day, and enjoy each other’s company.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with a hypothetical example.
Continue to develop it as fully as possible.
Include specific detail.
1. Nonetheless, most families rely on government support in this area for a number of reasons. 2. Firstly, many families lack the time to take their children to school in the morning. 3. This is particularly the case if they have more than one child and they attend different schools. 4. A parent living in a rural area, for example, might have to be at work early in the morning and simply does not have the flexible schedule to allow for multiple morning trips. 5. Secondly, most people depend on school buses and consider this a key part of their tax contributions. 6. This is particularly true for less privileged families, who might not have private transportation, or in single parent homes where time is at a premium.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
The more specific, the better.
Develop the example.
Conclude the paragraph or finish developing your last idea.
1. In conclusion, the familial gains of a trip to school in the morning are outweighed by the very practical concerns of average citizens. 2. Governments should continue to ease the burden on parents by providing transportation to and from school.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Many feel that parents should take their children to school, while others feel this is a governmental responsibility. In my opinion, this is chiefly the duty of governments.
Those who feel parents should be in charge of transportation to school argue this is an important element of family life. Most people have fond memories of their parents driving, walking, or taking public transport with them to school and this is a potential time for bonding. Early in the morning on the way to school children and parents are likely to be at their most energetic. After a long day at school and work, both parties will probably be tired or busy. This therefore means the morning commute is an opportunity to catch up, make plans for the day, and enjoy each other’s company.
Nonetheless, most families rely on government support in this area for a number of reasons. Firstly, many families lack the time to take their children to school in the morning. This is particularly the case if they have more than one child and they attend different schools. A parent living in a rural area, for example, might have to be at work early in the morning and simply does not have the flexible schedule to allow formultiple morning trips. Secondly, most people depend on school buses and consider this a key part of their tax contributions. This is particularly true for less privileged families, who might not have private transportation, or in single parent homes where time is at a premium.
In conclusion, the familial gains of a trip to school in the morning are outweighed by the very practical concerns of average citizens. Governments should continue to ease the burden on parents by providing transportation to and from school.
Answers
governmental responsibility government should take care of it
chiefly mainly
duty responsibility
in charge of oversee
important element key part
family life living together in a family
fond memories good memories
taking public transport taking the bus, subway
potential time possible moment
early in the morning on the way to while going to
likely to be probably
energetic have more energy
parties both groups – parents and children
therefore thus
morning commute going to school/work
opportunity chance
catch up talk about what has been going on
make plans for the day decide on what to do later
enjoy each other’s company spend quality time together
nonetheless regardless
rely on depend on
firstly first of all
lack don’t have
particularly the case especially true
attend go to
rural area countryside
flexible schedule not a fixed timetable
allow formultiple be able to go many times
secondly second of all
depend on rely on
consider think about
key part essential element
tax contributions giving part of your paycheck to the government
particularly true especially the case
less privileged families poor families
private transportation cars
single parent homes only one parent to raise you
at a premium very valuable
familial gains good for the family
outweighed stronger than
practical concerns pragmatic issues
average citizens normal people
ease the burden make life easier
providing transportation to and from school taking care of the morning and afternoon commute
Many feel that parents should take their children to school, while others feel this is a g_______________________________y. In my opinion, this is c________y the d____y of governments.
Those who feel parents should be i__________f transportation to school argue this is an i____________________t of f____________e. Most people have f______________________s of their parents driving, walking, or t_________________________t with them to school and this is a p______________e for bonding. E_______________________________o school children and parents are l_______________e at their most e___________c. After a long day at school and work, both p__________s will probably be tired or busy. This t___________e means the m___________________e is an o______________y to c__________p, m______________________y, and e__________________________y.
N_____________s, most families r________n government support in this area for a number of reasons. F_________y, many families l_____k the time to take their children to school in the morning. This is p__________________e if they have more than one child and they a________d different schools. A parent living in a r_____________a, for example, might have to be at work early in the morning and simply does not have the f____________________e to a______________________e morning trips. S______________y, most people d______________n school buses and c____________r this a k___________t of their t______________________s. This is p______________________e for l________________________s, who might not have p_____________________n, or in s_________________________s where time is a________________m.
In conclusion, the f________________s of a trip to school in the morning are o________________d by the very p__________________s of a___________________s. Governments should continue to e______________________n on parents by p___________________________________________l.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of whether or not television programmes should be aimed at educating viewers about important social issues 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 don’t miss any of my exclusive IELTS Ebooks)!
Dave
IELTS Essay: Watching TV
Some people say that all popular TV entertainment programmes should aim to educate viewers about important social issues.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Critics of the quality of televisions shows these days argue that more educational programming related to key social issues is needed. In my opinion, though there are legitimate reasons to support such reforms, I believe television should be mainly for entertainment.
Those in favour of raising awareness of social problems claim that television is not currently serving a socially viable purpose. The most popular shows are dramas, comedies, and reality TV, all of which are purely for entertainment. If the time wasted on such shows was diverted towards educational programs, this would have a ripple effect on society at large. For example, more informed news shows about underprivileged segments of society could lead to outpourings of empathy and encourage a nuanced understanding of the causes of poverty. This greater awareness would translate to real action in many cases. Powerful figures and small activists alike could contribute to socially beneficial causes.
Nonetheless, the actual impact of the proposed changes is questionable and most people do not watch TV out of altruism. Raising awareness of social issues, depending on how it is handled and the self-righteousness of the programs, is just as likely to provoke a negative backlash and hinder progress. Moreover, people watch TV in order to relax and let their minds rest or to experience a feeling of excitement. Forcing viewers to think about complex societal problems would simply discourage them and they would instead watch videos on YouTube or Netflix. It would be impossible to regulate all media and there would be public uproar at the attempt.
In conclusion, though it would be ideal for television to inform citizens of social problems, this solution is not practical. Individuals will always seek out the pastimes that entertain, not educate, them the most.
Analysis
1. Critics of the quality of televisions shows these days argue that more educational programming related to key social issues is needed. 2. In my opinion, though there are legitimate reasons to support such reforms, I believe television should be mainly for entertainment.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Those in favour of raising awareness of social problems claim that television is not currently serving a socially viable purpose. 2. The most popular shows are dramas, comedies, and reality TV, all of which are purely for entertainment. 3. If the time wasted on such shows was diverted towards educational programs, this would have a ripple effect on society at large. 4. For example, more informed news shows about underprivileged segments of society could lead to outpourings of empathy and encourage a nuanced understanding of the causes of poverty. 5. This greater awareness would translate to real action in many cases. 6. Powerful figures and small activists alike could contribute to socially beneficial causes.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific examples.
Continue to develop it.
State the result.
Develop it fully.
1. Nonetheless, the actual impact of the proposed changes is questionable and most people do not watch TV out of altruism. 2. Raising awareness of social issues, depending on how it is handled and the self-righteousness of the programs, is just as likely to provoke a negative backlash and hinder progress. 3. Moreover, people watch TV in order to relax and let their minds rest or to experience a feeling of excitement. 4. Forcing viewers to think about complex societal problems would simply discourage them and they would instead watch videos on YouTube or Netflix. 5. It would be impossible to regulate all media and there would be public uproar at the attempt.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
The more specific, the better.
Develop the example fully by stating the result.
1. In conclusion, though it would be ideal for television to inform citizens of social problems, this solution is not practical. 2. Individuals will always seek out the pastimes that entertain, not educate, them the most.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Critics of the quality of televisions shows these days argue that more educational programming related to key social issues is needed. In my opinion, though there are legitimate reasons to support such reforms, I believe television should be mainly for entertainment.
Those in favour of raising awareness of social problems claim that television is not currently serving a socially viable purpose. The most popular shows are dramas, comedies, and reality TV, all of which are purely for entertainment. If the time wasted on such shows was diverted towards educational programs, this would have a ripple effect on society at large. For example, more informed news shows about underprivileged segments of society could lead to outpourings of empathy and encourage a nuanced understanding of the causes of poverty. This greater awareness would translate to real action in many cases. Powerful figures and small activists alike could contribute to socially beneficial causes.
Nonetheless, the actual impact of the proposed changes is questionable and most people do not watch TV out of altruism. Raising awareness of social issues, depending on how it is handled and the self-righteousness of the programs, is just as likely to provoke a negative backlash and hinder progress. Moreover, people watch TV in order to relax and let their minds rest or to experience a feeling of excitement. Forcing viewers to think about complex societal problems would simply discourage them and they would instead watch videos on YouTube or Netflix. It would be impossible to regulate all media and there would be public uproar at the attempt.
In conclusion, though it would be ideal for television to inform citizens of social problems, this solution is not practical. Individuals will always seek out the pastimes that entertain, not educate, them the most.
Answers
critics those who argue against it
quality how good it is
these days recently
educational programming shows that are informative
key social issues imprtant problems related to society
legitimate reasons good justifications
reforms changes
those in favour of raising awareness supporters of this opinion
claim argue
not currently serving not helping
socially viable purpose good for society
reality TV shows without scripts about real people
purely entirely
wasted not used properly
diverted towards pushed in a different direction
ripple effect trickle down impact
at large in general
more informed news shows TV shows that report well
underprivileged segments poor parts
lead to outpourings of empathy cause people to feel bad
encourage motivate
nuanced understanding complex understanding of
poverty being poor
greater awareness know more about
translate means
powerful figures famous, rich people
small activists alike individuals as well
contribute add to
socially beneficial causes helps society
nonetheless regardless
actual impact real effect
proposed changes what they want to reform
questionable dubious
out of altruism not for personal gain
depending on has to do with
handled dealt with
self-righteousness feeling superior to others
provoke instigate
negative backlash overreaction
hinder progress hurt the movement
let their minds rest relax
experience watch
forcing have to
complex societal problems nuanced issues in society
C_________s of the q_________y of televisions shows t___________s argue that more e____________________________g related to k__________________s is needed. In my opinion, though there are l______________________s to support such r________s, I believe television should be mainly for entertainment.
T_____________________________________s of social problems c_____m that television is n__________________________g a s___________________e. The most popular shows are dramas, comedies, and r_________V, all of which are p________y for entertainment. If the time w________d on such shows was d__________________s educational programs, this would have a r_______________t on society a_________e. For example, m______________________s about u__________________________s of society could l__________________________________y and e_____________e a n___________________________g of the causes of p__________y. This g____________________s would t________________e to real action in many cases. P____________________s and s_______________________e could c______________e to s_____________________________s.
N________________s, the a________________t of the p____________________s is q____________________e and most people do not watch TV o__________________m. Raising awareness of social issues, d____________________n how it is h_____________d and the s______________________s of the programs, is just as likely to p___________e a n_______________________h and h_____________________s. Moreover, people watch TV in order to relax and l________________________t or to e____________e a feeling of excitement. F___________g viewers to think about c___________________________s would simply d___________e them and they would i__________d watch videos on YouTube or Netflix. It would be impossible to r___________e all media and there would be p_______________r at the a_____________t.
In conclusion, though it would be i_________l for television to i__________m citizens of social problems, this solution is n__________________l. Individuals will always seek out the p__________s that entertain, not educate, them the most.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of maths 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 don’t miss any of my exclusive IELTS Ebooks)!
Dave
IELTS Essay: Maths
To succeed in a business, one needs to know maths.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many people claim that a key ingredient to success in the business world is a firm understanding of math. In my opinion, although there is some truth to this, it is not a crucial factor.
Proponents of the importance of math argue its usefulness in a variety of business contexts. For all business majors, mathematics courses in university are a requirement for graduation. This is because it is essential not only for those running a small business or shop to be able to do good book-keeping but also as a foundational skill for Wall Street brokers, bankers, entrepreneurs, accountants, and marketers. Without a solid understanding of the mathematical principles underlying the decision-making in those fields it is difficult to truly innovate and excel.
Nonetheless, there are more vital elements to business success. The math a business needs to prosper can be handled by dedicated specialists. It is more important for a potential business person to understand the nuances of the market, display leadership qualities, be decisive, and possess generally above-average intelligence. A good example of this would be an entrepreneur like Steve Jobs. He famously only hired quality specialists and prioritised for himself learning how to be an effective leader and motivate his employees well. The key to success is therefore segmenting a business into different areas all under the capable hands of a visionary leader.
In conclusion, mathematical ability can help inform businesses but it is not as essential as other management qualities. The ideal business person has an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and brings together a team of strong complements.
Analysis
1. Many people claim that a key ingredient to success in the business world is a firm understanding of math. 2. In my opinion, although there is some truth to this, it is not a crucial factor.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. Proponents of the importance of math argue its usefulness in a variety of business contexts. 2. For all business majors, mathematics courses in university are a requirement for graduation. 3. This is because it is essential not only for those running a small business or shop to be able to do good book-keeping but also as a foundational skill for Wall Street brokers, bankers, entrepreneurs, accountants, and marketers. 4. Without a solid understanding of the mathematical principles underlying the decision-making in those fields it is difficult to truly innovate and excel.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific examples.
Continue to develop it as fully as possible.
1. Nonetheless, there are more vital elements to business success. 2. The math a business needs to prosper can be handled by dedicated specialists. 3. It is more important for a potential business person to understand the nuances of the market, display leadership qualities, be decisive, and possess generally above-average intelligence. 4. A good example of this would be an entrepreneur like Steve Jobs. 5. He famously only hired quality specialists and prioritised for himself learning how to be an effective leader and motivate his employees well. 6. The key to success is therefore segmenting a business into different areas all under the capable hands of a visionary leader.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Include specific details and examples.
The more specific, the better.
Develop the example.
Conclude the paragraph or finish developing your last idea.
1. In conclusion, mathematical ability can help inform businesses but it is not as essential as other management qualities. 2. The ideal business person has an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and brings together a team of strong complements.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
Many people claim that a key ingredient to success in the business world is a firm understanding of math. In my opinion, although there is some truth to this, it is not a crucial factor.
Proponents of the importance of math argue its usefulness in a variety of business contexts. For all business majors, mathematics courses in university are a requirement for graduation. This is because it is essential not only for those running a small business or shop to be able to do good book-keeping but also as a foundational skill for Wall Street brokers, bankers, entrepreneurs, accountants, and marketers. Without a solid understanding of the mathematical principles underlying the decision-making in those fields it is difficult to truly innovate and excel.
Nonetheless, there are more vital elements to business success. The math a business needs to prosper can be handled by dedicated specialists. It is more important for a potential business person to understand the nuances of the market, display leadership qualities, be decisive, and possess generally above-average intelligence. A good example of this would be an entrepreneur like Steve Jobs. He famously only hired quality specialists and prioritised for himself learning how to be an effective leader and motivate his employees well. The key to success is therefore segmenting a business into different areas all under the capable hands of a visionary leader.
In conclusion, mathematical ability can help inform businesses but it is not as essential as other management qualities. The ideal business person has an understanding of their strengths and weaknesses and brings together a team of strong complements.
Answers
key ingredient essential part
business world where business people work
firm understanding of math know math well
crucial factor important element
proponents supporters
usefulness practicality
variety of business contexts many different jobs
majors studying
requirement must do
graduation finishing school
running a small business having your own business
book-keeping keeping track of your earnings/spending
foundational skill needed
Wall Street brokers people who trade stocks
bankers people who work in banks
entrepreneurs people starting their own business
accountants people working with finances
marketers people working in advertising
solid understanding good grasp
mathematical principles underlying the math that underpins/supports
decision-making making decisions
fields jobs, areas
truly innovate think of new ideas
excel do better than others
nonetheless regardless
vital elements key parts
prosper do rewally well
handled by dedicated specialists dealt with by people who know it well
potential business person will get into business someday
nuances complexity
display leadership qualities are good leaders
decisive can make decisions
possess generally above-average intelligence are smart
entrepreneur person who starts a business
famously well-known
hired quality specialists employed experts
prioritised placed value on
effective leader good boss
motivate his employees well encourage those who work for him
key to success ingredient to doing well
segmenting a business dividing up a company
under the capable hands of under good leadership
visionary leader boss who can see the future
inform contribute to
not as essential as not as important as
management qualities leadership qualities
ideal perfect
strengths and weaknesses what you’re good and bad at
Many people claim that a k___________________t to success in the b___________________d is a f_________________________________h. In my opinion, although there is some truth to this, it is not a c___________________r.
P_____________________________s of the importance of math argue its u______________s in a v_____________________________s. For all business m__________s, mathematics courses in university are a r__________________t for g_____________________n. This is because it is essential not only for those r_________________________s or shop to be able to do good b__________________g but also as a f__________________________l for W______________________s, b_________s, e________________s, a_______________s, and m___________s. Without a s______________________g of the m_________________________________g the d____________________g in those f__________s it is difficult to t___________________e and e_____l.
N________________s, there are more v______________s to business success. The math a business needs to p___________r can be h___________________________s. It is more important for a p______________________n to understand the n____________s of the market, d________________________s, be d___________e, and p___________________________________________e. A good example of this would be an e____________r like Steve Jobs. He f____________y only h__________________________s and p_______________d for himself learning how to be an e_______________r and m______________________l. The k________________s is therefore s_____________________s into different areas all u_______________________________f a v________________r.
In conclusion, mathematical ability can help i__________m businesses but it is n________________________s other m_________________________s. The i______l business person has an understanding of their s________________________________s and b________________r a team of s________________________s.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
This is an IELTS writing task 2 sample answer essay on the topic of advertising from the real IELTS exam.
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IELTS Essay: Advertising
Some feel that the effects of advertising are positive for individuals and businesses, while others think they are negative.
Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.
As advertising becomes increasingly invasive, there has been an increase in debates concerning its effects. In my opinion, advertising is on the whole a negative due to its impact on the average individual, though it is clearly beneficial for businesses.
It is hard to argue against the positive boon that advertising has brought to a variety of industries. In the 1950s and 60s, the growth of American advertising in particular ushered in an age of rampant commercial opportunity. Corporations ranging from automoblie manufacturers to airlines to soft drink companies took advantage of the emerging medium of television to reach wider audiences. By appealing to basic human psychology, they were able to tap into a nearly limitless market that eventually expanded globally and is now supported by ruthlessly efficient and profitable online marketing methods.
Nonetheless, advertising mainly serves to distract and entice. The purpose of advertisements is not simply to inform. Consumers can find information about products from a number of sources of their own volition. Advertising attracts individuals and creates new desires that distract from healthier modes of living. For example, the average person would be better served by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. However, ubiquitous advertisements for fast food make this difficult, in some cases impossible, to achieve. Generalised across a range of consumer products, it is clear that people are being drawn unhealthily towards their worst impulses.
In conclusion, the benefits of advertising for the business world do not outweigh its psychological impact on the average citizen. A world without advertising is not feasible but it is still possible to limit one’s exposure.
Analysis
1. As advertising becomes increasingly invasive, there has been an increase in debates concerning its effects. 2. In my opinion, advertising is on the whole a negative due to its impact on the average individual, though it is clearly beneficial for businesses.
Paraphrase the overall essay topic.
Write a clear opinion. Read more about introductions here.
1. It is hard to argue against the positive boon that advertising has brought to a variety of industries. 2. In the 1950s and 60s, the growth of American advertising in particular ushered in an age of rampant commercial opportunity. 3. Corporations ranging from automoblie manufacturers to airlines to soft drink companies took advantage of the emerging medium of television to reach wider audiences. 4. By appealing to basic human psychology, they were able to tap into a nearly limitless market that eventually expanded globally and is now supported by ruthlessly efficient and profitable online marketing methods.
Write a topic sentence with a clear main idea at the end.
Explain your main idea.
Develop it with specific detail as fully as possible.
Continue to develop it and don’t change to a new idea.
1. Nonetheless, advertising mainly serves to distract and entice. 2. The purpose of advertisements is not simply to inform. 3. Consumers can find information about products from a number of sources of their own volition. 4. Advertising attracts individuals and creates new desires that distract from healthier modes of living. 5. For example, the average person would be better served by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. 6. However, ubiquitous advertisements for fast food make this difficult, in some cases impossible, to achieve. 7. Generalised across a range of consumer products, it is clear that people are being drawn unhealthily towards their worst impulses.
Write a new topic sentence with a new main idea at the end.
Explain your new main idea.
Continue with your explanation if you need to.
Start developing your idea.
Use a specific example.
Develop the example.
Fully.
1. In conclusion, the benefits of advertising for the business world do not outweigh its psychological impact on the average citizen. 2. A world without advertising is not feasible but it is still possible to limit one’s exposure.
Summarise your main ideas.
Include a final thought. Read more about conclusions here.
Vocabulary
What do the words in bold below mean?
As advertising becomes increasingly invasive, there has been an increase in debates concerning its effects. In my opinion, advertising is on the whole a negative due to its impact on the average individual, though it is clearly beneficial for businesses.
It is hard to argue against the positive boon that advertising has brought to a variety of industries. In the 1950s and 60s, the growth of American advertising in particular ushered in an age of rampant commercial opportunity. Corporations ranging from automoblie manufacturers to airlines to soft drink companies took advantage of the emerging medium of television to reach wider audiences. By appealing to basic human psychology, they were able to tap into a nearly limitless market that eventually expanded globally and is now supported by ruthlessly efficient and profitable online marketing methods.
Nonetheless, advertising mainly serves to distract and entice. The purpose of advertisements is not simply to inform. Consumers can find information about products from a number of sources of their own volition. Advertising attracts individuals and creates new desires that distract from healthier modes of living. For example, the average person would be better served by eating a healthy diet and exercising regularly. However, ubiquitous advertisements for fast food make this difficult, in some cases impossible, to achieve. Generalised across a range of consumer products, it is clear that people are being drawn unhealthily towards their worst impulses.
In conclusion, the benefits of advertising for the business world do not outweigh its psychological impact on the average citizen. A world without advertising is not feasible but it is still possible to limit one’s exposure.
Answers
increasingly invasive more and more personal
debates concerning controversy around
on the whole in general
average individual normal person
clearly beneficial definitely good for
hard to argue against difficult to disagree with
boon good for
variety of industries many types of
ushered in an age of rampant commercial opportunity started an era of more business
ranging from including
manufacturers makers
took advantage exploited
emerging medium new type
reach wider audiences find more people
appealing attractive
basic human psychology how people think
tap into exploit
nearly limitless market unlimited potential
eventually expanded globally after a while became international
supported by ruthlessly efficient backed up by useful
profitable making money
nonetheless regardless
distract take attention from
entice pull in
inform give information about
of their own volition their own choice
attracts entices
healthier modes of living ways of being healthy
better served is better for
regularly usually
ubiquitous common
in some cases impossible sometimes can’t be
achieve accomplish
generalised applies to lots of
drawn unhealthily towards their worst impulses enticed to do bad things
As advertising becomes i_____________________e, there has been an increase in d____________________g its effects. In my opinion, advertising is o_________________e a negative due to its impact on the a_________________l, though it is c_________________l for businesses.
It is h__________________t the positive b____n that advertising has brought to a v___________________s. In the 1950s and 60s, the growth of American advertising in particular u__________________________________________________y. Corporations r_________________m automoblie m________________s to airlines to soft drink companies t______________e of the e_________________m of television to r____________________s. By a_____________g to b__________________________y, they were able to t__________o a n______________________t that e_______________________y and is now s_________________________________t and p____________e online marketing methods.
N_____________s, advertising mainly serves to d_________t and e_______e. The purpose of advertisements is not simply to i_______urces o______________________n. Advertising a________s individuals and creates new desires that distract from h_________________________g. For example, the average person would be b_______________d by eating a healthy diet and exercising r_________y. However, u_____________s advertisements for fast food make this difficult, i____________________________e, to a_________e. G______________d across a range of consumer products, it is clear that people are being d____________________________________________________s.
In conclusion, the benefits of advertising for the b_____________d do not o_________h its p_____________________t on the average citizen. A world without advertising is n______________e but it is still possible to l________t one’s e___________e.
Listening Practice
Learn more about this topic in the video below and practice with these activities:
Do you think the media influences our idea of beauty?
Do you think advertisements portrayal of beauty is correct?
How has people’s idea of beauty changed over the last few decades?
Do you think beauty only relates to a person’s appearance?
Writing Practice
Practice with the related topic below and then check with my sample answer:
Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Other people think that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
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