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353 practice questions: task 2 (Ac+GT essays)
IELTS writing
This page contains essay questions from official IELTS books (with the link to Amazon and page number). The module (Academic or General Training) is marked for each question (there are more Academic topics here and in many books) but the essay structure, themes, types and requirements are essentially the same, so you can use any topic to practice, no matter which module you are taking.
Real test questions are developed by IELTS writers and, therefore, unique, so it's not a good idea to learn topics by heart. However, I recommend exploring a range of topics by reading articles and watching documentaries about them: expanding your awareness of the world issues will help you not only with the essay writing but with the speaking as well.
While your answer must be original (not plagiarised, or copied), it doesn't have to be particularly creative, unusual or express an expert opinion. Instead, concentrate on giving a relevant answer to the question and expressing your ideas clearly and logically, supporting them with reasons and examples.
Before you start writing, always make an outline of the main arguments and supporting ideas: this way, in the middle of writing, you won't waste time trying to think of ideas or go off topic. Even the most experienced writers need a plan when there is time for only one draft: the final.
SOME COMMON ESSAY QUESTIONS ARE:
Do you agree (or disagree)? To what extent do you agree? What is your opinion? Do you think...?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? Are the benefits of this greater than the drawbacks?
What causes this? Why is this happening?/ What are the consequences? Why is this a problem?/ How can this be solved? How can this be made better?
Discuss both views/ this view (and give your own opinion).
Other questions: What is happiness? Who should teach children responsibility? What communication skills are important in the modern world? etc. etc. This is a pretty uncommon type of essay question, but it is good practice because it makes you think carefully about what your task actually is.
Click to read about how writing task 2 (essay) is assessed.
1. It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives.
Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 29, Academic)
2. Some children spend hours every days on their smartphones.
Why is this the case?
Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? (p. 51, Academic)
3. Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 73, Academic)
4. Nowadays, a growing number of people with health problems are trying alternative medicines and treatment instead of visiting their usual doctor.
Do you think this is a positive or a negative development? (p. 94, Academic)
5. In some countries, more and more people are becoming interested in finding out about the history of the house or building they live in.
What are the reasons for this?
How can people research this? (p. 30, Academic)
6. In their advertising, businesses nowadays usually emphasise that their products are new in some way.
Why is this?
Do you think it is a positive or negative development? (p. 53, Academic)
7. Many manufactured food and drink products contain high levels of sugar, which causes many health problems. Sugary products should be made more expensive to encourage people to consume less sugar.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 74, Academic)
8. In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers.
Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 96, Academic)
Cambridge IELTS 16 General Training
9. Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment.
What damage does plastic do to the environment?
What can be done by governments and individuals to solve this problem ? (p. 30, General Training)
10. Some people like to try new things, for example places to visit and types of food. Other people prefer to keep doing things they are familiar with.
Discuss both these attitudes and give your own opinion. (p. 52, General Training)
11. Some people spend most of their lives living close to where they were born.
What might be the reasons for this?
What are the advantages and disadvantages? (p. 74, General Training)
12. Some people say that now is the best time in history to be living.
What is your opinion about this?
What other time in history would be interesting to live in? (p. 96, General Training)
13. In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people.
Why might this be the case?
Do you think this is a positive or negative situation? (p. 29, Academic)
14. In the future, nobody will buy printed newspapers or books because they will be able to read everything they want online without paying.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 50, Academic)
15. Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Other people say that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 72, Academic)
16. In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message? (p. 72, Academic)
Cambridge IELTS 15 General Training
17. In many countries today, crime novels and TV crime dramas are becoming more and more popular.
Why do you think these books and TV shows are popular?
What is your opinion of crime fiction and TV crime dramas? (p. 30, General Training)
18. Nowadays many people complain that they have difficulties getting enough sleep.
What problems can lack of sleep cause?
What can be done about lack of sleep? (p. 52, General Training)
19. In the future, more people will choose to go on holiday in their own country and not travel abroad on holiday.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 74, General Training)
20. In many countries, paying for things using mobile phone (cellphone) apps is becoming increasingly common.
Does this development have more advantages or disadvantages? (p. 96, General Training)
Cambridge IELTS 14 Academic
21. Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 30, Academic)
22. Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 51, Academic)
23. Some people say that music is a good way of bringing people of different cultures and ages together.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 73, Academic)
24. Nowadays many people choose to be self-employed, rather than work for a company or organisation.
Why might this be the case?
What could be the disadvantages of being self-employed? (p. 95, Academic)
Cambridge IELTS 14 General Training
25. The growth of online shopping will one day lead to all shops in towns and cities closing.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 31, General Training)
26. Some people think it’s better to choose friends who always have the same opinions as them. Others believe it’s good to have friends who sometimes disagree with them.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 52, General Training)
27. Some people say the main way to be happy in life is to have a lot of money.
How might having a lot of money make people happy?
What other things in life might make people happy? (p. 75, General Training)
28. Many people work long hours, leaving very little time for leisure activities.
Does this situation have more advantages or disadvantages? (p. 97, General Training)
29. Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause serious social problems, as well as practical problems.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement? (p. 30, Academic)
30. Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement? (p. 52, Academic)
31. Some people say History is one of the most important school subjects. Other people say that, in today’s world, subjects like Science and Technology are more important than History.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 74, Academic)
32. In spite of the advances made in agriculture, many people around the world still go hungry.
Why is this the case?
What can be done about this problem? (p. 95, Academic)
Cambridge IELTS 13 General Training
33. In some areas of the US, a ‘curfew’ is imposed, in which teenagers are not allowed to be out of doors after a particular time at night unless they are accompanied by an adult.
What is your opinion about this? (p. 29, General Training)
34. Many working people get little or no exercise either during the working day or in their free time, and have health problems as a result.
Why do many working people not get enough exercise?
What can be done about this problem? (p. 51, General Training)
35. Some people say that now we can see films on our phones or tablets there is no need to go to the cinema. Others say that to be fully enjoyed, films need to be seen in a cinema.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 73, General Training)
36. Some people say that it is important to keep your home and workplace tidy, with everything organised and in the correct place.
What is your opinion about this? (p. 94, General Training)
37. Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific research, business and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too important or too valuable to be shared freely.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 28, Academic)
38. At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of young adults, compared with the number fo older people.
Do the advantages of this situation outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 51, Academic)
39. In a number of countries, some people think it is necessary to spend large sums of money on constructing new railway lines for very fast trains between cities. Others believe the money should be spent on improving existing public transport.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 72, Academic)
40. Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think about their own wishes. Others people believe that it is important for children to make decisions about matters that affect them.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 93, Academic)
Cambridge IELTS 12 General Training
41. Today more and more tourists are visiting places where conditions are difficult, such as the Sahara desert or the Antarctic.
What are the benefits and disadvantages for tourists who visit such places? (p. 30, General Training)
42. In many places, new homes are needed but the only space available for building them is the countryside. Some people believe it is more important to protect the countryside and not build new homes there.
What is your opinion about this? (p. 51, General Training)
43. Some people say that parents should encourage their children to take part in organised group activities in their free time. Others say that it is important for children to learn how to occupy themselves on their own.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 78, General Training)
44. In recent years, many small local shops have closed because customers travel to large shopping centres or malls to do their shopping.
Is this a positive or negative development? (p. 100, General Training)
45. Governments should spend money on railways rather than roads.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 31, Academic)
46. Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement.
To what extent do you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste? (p. 55, Academic)
47. Some people say that the only reason for learning a foreign language is in order to travel to or work in a foreign country. Others say that these are not the only reasons why someone should learn a foreign language.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 78, Academic)
48. Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 101, Academic)
Cambridge IELTS 11 General Training
49. Employers sometimes ask people applying for jobs for personal information, such as their hobbies and interests, and whether they are married or single. Some people say that this information may be relevant and useful. Others disagree.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 31, General Training)
50. Some people say that in all levels of education, from primary school to universities, too much time is spent on learning facts and not enough on learning practical skills.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 53, General Training)
51. News stories on TV and in newspapers are often accompanied by pictures.
Some people say that these pictures are more effective than words.
What is your opinion about this? (p. 76, General Training)
52. Some people say that it’s possible to tell a lot about a person’s culture and character from their choice of clothes.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 98, General Training)
53. It is important for children to learn the difference between right and wrong at an early age. Punishment is necessary to help them learn this distinction.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
What sort of punishment should parents and teachers be allowed to use to teach good behaviours to them? (p. 31, Academic)
54. Some people think that all university students should study whatever they like. Others believe that they should only be allowed to study subjects that will be useful in the future, such as those related to science and technology.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 55, Academic)
55. Counties are becoming more and more similar because people are able to buy the same products anywhere in the world.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development? (p. 78, Academic)
56. Many museums charge for admission while others are free.
Do you think the advantages of charging people for admission to museums outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 102, Academic)
57. Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.
Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 31, Academic)
58. Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children).
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 54, Academic)
59. Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 77, Academic)
60. Every year several languages die out. Some people think that this is not important because life will be easier if there are fewer languages in the world.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 102, Academic)
61. Being a celebrity — such as a famous film star or sports personality — brings problems as well as befits.
Do you think that being a celebrity brings more benefits or more problems? (p. 117, General Training)
62. Some people think that the teenage years are the happiest times of most people’s lives. Others think that adult life brings more happiness, in spite of greater responsibilities.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 130, General Training
63. Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion. (p. 31, Academic)
64. Nowadays the way people interact with each other has changed because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships people have?
Has this become a positive or negative development? (p. 54, Academic)
65. Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
What other measures do you think might be effective? (p. 79, Academic)
66. In some countries the average weight of people is increasing and their levels of health and fitness are decreasing.
What do you think are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them? (p. 102, Academic)
67. Today more people are travelling than ever before.
Why is this the case?
What are the benefits of travelling to the traveller? (p. 116, General Training)
68. Some people think that it is better to educate boys and girls in separate schools. Others, however, believe that boys and girls benefit more from attending mixed schools.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 129, General Training)
69. It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 31, Academic)
70. Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 54, Academic)
71. As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important part of individual wellbeing.
What factors contribute to job satisfaction?
How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers? (p. 79, Academic)
72. Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer.
What, in your opinion, should be the main function of a university? (p. 102, Academic)
73. Some people prefer to live in a house, while others feel that there are more advantages to living in an apartment.
Are there more advantages than disadvantages of living in a house compared with living in an apartment? (p. 116, General Training)
74. Some people feel that entertainers (e.g. film stars, pop musicians or sports stars) are paid too much money.
Do you agree or disagree?
Which other types of job should be highly paid? (p. 128, General Training)
75. Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of the society in which they are sold.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 31, Academic)
76. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 53, Academic)
77. Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 75, Academic)
78. Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 99, Academic)
79. Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in every subject.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 30, Academic)
80. In some countries, young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this. (p. 53, Academic)
81. Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 76, Academic)
82. Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life.
Which do you consider to be the major influence? (p. 99, Academic)
83. Some people believe that children are given too much free time. They feel that this time should be used to do more school work.
How do you think children should spend their free time? (p. 113, General Training)
84. Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish.
Why do you think this is happening?
What can governments do to reduce the amount of rubbish produced? (p. 127, General Training)
85. Happiness is considered very important in life.
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness? (p. 52, Academic)
86. Creative artists should always be given the freedom to express their own ideas (in words, pictures, music or film) in whichever way they wish. There should be no government restrictions on what they do.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 76, Academic)
87. In many countries schools have severe problems with student behaviour.
What do you think are the causes of this?
What solutions can you suggest? (p. 98, Academic)
88. In the past, many people had skills such as making their own clothes and doing repairs to things in the house. In many countries, nowadays, skills like these are disappearing.
Why do you think this change is happening?
How far is this situation true in your country? (p. 115, Academic)
89. Some people believe that children should be allowed to stay at home and play until they are six or seven years old. Others believe that it is important for young children to go to school as soon as possible.
What do you think are the advantages of attending school from a young age? (p. 129, General Training)
90. Popular events like the football World Cup and other international sporting occasions are essential in easing international tensions and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 28, Academic)
91. When a country develops its technology, the traditional skills and ways of life die out. It is pointless to try and keep them alive.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 52, Academic)
92. In many countries children are engaged in some kind of paid work. Some people regard this as completely wrong, while others consider it as valuable work experience, important for learning and taking responsibility.
What are your opinions on this? (p. 74, Academic)
93. Improvements in health, education and trade are essential for the development of poorer nations. However, the governments of richer nations should take more responsibility for helping the poorer nations in such areas.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 98, Academic)
94. Some people believe that children’s leisure activities must be educational, otherwise they are a complete waste of time.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 113, General Training)
95. It is generally accepted that families are not as close as they used to be.
Give some reasons why this change has happened and suggest how families could be brought closer together. Include any relevant examples from your experience. (p. 126, General Training)
96. Fatherhood ought to be emphasised as much as motherhood. The idea that women are solely responsible for deciding whether or not to have babies leads on to the idea that they are responsible for bringing the children up.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 28, Academic)
97. Prevention is better than cure.
Out of a country’s health budget, a large proportion should be diverted from treatment to spending on health education and preventative measures.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 52, Academic)
98. Without capital punishment (the death penalty) our lives are less secure and crimes of violence increase. Capital punishment is essential to control violence in society.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 74, Academic)
99. The position of women has changed markedly in the last twenty years. Many of the problems young people now experience, such as juvenile delinquency, arise from the fact that many married women now work and are not at home to care for their children.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 96, Academic)
100. Some governments say how many children a family can have in their country. They may control the number of children someone has through taxes.
It is sometimes necessary and right for a government to control the population in this way.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 111, General Training)
101. Millions of people every year move to English-speaking countries, such as Australia, Britain or America, in order to study at school, college or university.
Why do so many people want to study in English?
Why is English such an important international language?
Give reasons for your answer. (p. 125, General Training)
102. There are many different types of music in the world today.
Why do we need music?
Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard everywhere nowadays? (p. 32, Academic)
103. Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and education?
Or is it the responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to look after their citizens themselves? (p. 52, Academic)
104. News editors decide what to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers.
What factors do you think influence these decisions?
Do we become used to bad news?
Would it be better if more good news was reported? (p. 73, Academic)
105. The idea of having a single career is becoming an old-fashioned one. The new fashion will be to have several careers or ways of earning money and further education will be something that continues throughout life.
What is your opinion? (p. 92, Academic)
106. We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers. They are used in business, hospitals, crime detection and even to fly planes.
What things will they be used for in the future?
Is this dependence on computers a good thing or should we be more suspicious of their benefits? (p. 106, General Training)
Official IELTS Practice Materials
107. Many old buildings are protected by law because they are part of a nation’s history. However, some people think old buildings should be knocked down to make way for new ones because people need houses and offices.
How important is it to maintain old buildings?
Should history stand in the way of progress? (p. 33, Academic)
108. Television is dangerous because it destroys family life and any sense of community; instead of visiting people or talking with our family we just watch television.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 36, Academic)
109. Many people say that cooking and eating at home is better for the individual and the family than eating out in restaurants and canteens.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 51, General Training)
110. People should be allowed to continue to work for as long as they want to, and not be forced to retire at a particular age such as 60 or 65.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 54, General Training)
111. The car is possibly the most convenient and popular way of getting from A to B. However, due to its impact on the environment and the risk it poses to pedestrians and motorists, governments should take urgent steps to reduce our dependency on this mode of transport.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 51, Academic)
112. Young people are often the first to suffer when job opportunities are scarce.
In which ways does age affect employment opportunities?
How might employers deal with the issue fairly? (p. 72, Academic)
113. Hosting a major sporting event like the Olympics or the football World Cup offers significant benefits to the country concerned, yet the costs involved can be excessive and may divert funds from other important areas.
What are the benefits of being a host, and do these outweigh the financial implications? (p. 94, Academic)
114. Some people think that taxation should be kept to a minimum as the money people earn should be theirs to do with as they wish. Others believe that people should pay a significant level of tax in order to support the public services we all depend on.
In your view, what is the fairest way to deal with the issue of taxation? (p. 113, Academic)
115. Some people think any form of experimentation on animals for any reason is wrong. They believe all such experiments should be banned. Others think the benefits research offers us in terms of medical advances make experiments on animals worthwhile.
Discuss both views and give your opinion. (p. 125, General Training)
116. Today more people are shopping online than ever before.
Why do people choose to shop in this way?
Are there disadvantages to shopping online? (p. 139, General Training)
IELTS Foundation Study Skills General training
117. Some people believe that television has brought many benefits to people’s lives. Others believe that it has had a negative effect.
Discuss both of these views and give your own opinions. (p. 53, General Training)
118. In the past, people often got married and had children when they were very young. Nowadays many people choose to start a family later on in life.
What do you think are the advantages and disadvantages of this development? (p. 53, General Training)
119. People who live and work in large cities often complain that they are suffering from stress.
What do you think are the causes of this problem and how should it be solved? (p. 54, General Training)
120. In Britain, many traditions and customs are changing or have disappeared completely.
What is the situation in your country? (p. 54, General Training)
IELTS Foundation Student’s Book
121. Academic achievement at school or university is the only true measure of a person’s intelligence.
To what extent do you agree with this statement? (p. 48, Academic)
122. Parents and family background have more influence than teachers on a young person’s learning and academic achievement.
To what extent do you agree with this statement? (p. 50, Academic)
123. In recent years, many countries have become extremely concerned about the increase in crimes committed by young people. Tough measures and strict punishments are necessary to stop youths from re-offending.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 74, Academic)
124. In the last 20 years, there have been significant developments in the field of information technology (IT), for example, the World Wide Web and communication by email. However, future developments in IT are likely to have more negative effects than positive.
To what extent do you agree with this view? (p. 122, Academic)
125. Some of the methods used in advertising are unethical and unacceptable in today’s society.
To what extent do you agree with this view? (p. 134, Academic)
Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS
126. In today’s job market it is far more important to have practical skills than theoretical knowledge. In the future, job applicants may not need any formal qualifications.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 93, Academic)
127. In many countries, the level of crime is increasing and crimes are becoming more violent.
Why do you think this is and what can be done about it? (p. 97, Academic)
128. Whoever controls the media also controls the opinions and attitudes of the people and there is little that can be done to rectify this.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 101, Academic)
129. The Internet allows us to stay connected with each other no matter where we are. On the other hand, it also isolates us and encourages people not to socialise.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with these statements? (p. 129, Academic)
130. Some people work for the same organisation their whole working life. Others think that it is better to work for different organisations.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 171, Academic)
131. One of the consequences of improved medical care is that people are living longer and life expectancy is increasing.
Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 188, Academic)
132. Car ownership has increased so rapidly over the past thirty years that many cities in the world are now ‘one big traffic jam’.
How true do you think this statement is?
What measures can governments take to discourage people from using their cars? (p. 205, Academic)
133. In some countries, an increasing number of people are suffering from health problems as a result of eating too much fast food. It is, therefore, necessary for governments to impose a higher tax on this kind of food.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 224, Academic)
134. Nowadays technology is increasingly being used to monitor what people are saying and doing (for example, through cellphone tracking and security cameras). In many cases, the people being monitored are unaware that this is happening.
Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 244, Academic)
135. In the past, when students did a university degree, they tended to study in their own country. Nowadays, they have more opportunity to study abroad.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development? (p. 264, Academic)
136. The continued rise in the world’s population is the greatest problem faced by humanity at the present time.
What are the causes of this continued rise?
Do you agree that this is the greatest problem faced by humanity? (p. 283, Academic)
137. It is sometimes said that people should be encouraged to get married before they are 30, as this is best both for the individual and society.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 299, General Training)
138. Some people get into debt by buying things they don’t need and can’t afford.
What are the reasons for this behaviour?
What action can be taken to prevent people from having this problem? (p. 317, Academic)
139. Many people like to wear fashionable clothes.
Why do you think this is the case?
Is this a good or a bad thing? (p. 332, General Training)
140. University lecturers are now able to put their lectures on the Internet for students to read and so the importance of attending face to face lectures has been reduced.
Do you believe the use of the Internet in formal education is a good idea?
What future effect will the Internet have on academic study? (p. 23, Academic)
141. Under British and Australian laws a jury in a criminal case has no access to information about the defendant’s past criminal record. This protects the person who is being accused of the crime.
Some lawyers have suggested that this practice should be changed and that a jury should be given all the past facts before they reach their decision about the case.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 50, Academic)
142. Some employers reward members of staff for their exceptional contribution to the company by giving them extra money. This practice can act as an incentive for some but may also have a negative impact on others.
To what extent is this style of management effective.
Are there better ways of encouraging employees to work hard? (p. 70, Academic)
143. In the past, sporting champions used to be motivated primarily by the desire to win a match or break world records. These days, they are more likely to be motivated by prize money and the opportunity to be famous.
What message does this send to young people and how does this attitude to sport affect sports themselves? (p. 89, Academic)
144. ‘Failure is proof that the desire wasn’t strong enough.’
To what extent do you agree with this statement? (p. 110, Academic)
145. To be labelled a ‘Work of Art’, a painting, sculpture or other art forms should display certain qualities that are unique. However, over the past century, there has been a decline in the quality of prize-winning artwork and it is now possible for quite ordinary pieces of art to be labelled ‘masterpieces’ whilst true works of art pass unnoticed.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 128, Academic)
146. Popular hobbies and interests change over time and are more a reflection of trends and fashions than an indication of what individuals really want to do in their spare time.
To what extent do you agree with this statement? (p. 143, General Training)
147. The only way to reduce the amount of traffic in cities today is by reducing the need for people to travel from home to work, education or shopping.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 35, Academic)
148. Modern societies need specialists in certain fields, but not in others.
Some people, therefore, think that governments should pay university fees for students who study subjects that are needed by society. Those who chose to study less relevant subjects should not receive government funding.
Would the advantages of such an educational policy outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 63, Academic)
149. Young people in the modern world seem to have more power and influence than any previous young generation.
Why is this the case?
What impact does this have on a relationship between old and young people? (p. 86, Academic)
150. Music is played in every society and culture in the world today.
Some people think that music brings only benefits to individuals and societies. Others, however, think that music can have a negative influence on both.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 107, Academic)
151. In recent years some countries have experienced very rapid economic development. This has resulted in much higher standards of living in urban areas but not in the countryside.
This situation may bring some problems to a country as a whole.
What are these problems?
How might they be reduced? (p. 126, Academic)
152. People who travel to another country to live, work or study for a period of time often suffer badly from homesickness.
Why is this?
What are the best ways to reduce this problem? (p. 154, General Training)
153. Some people think men and women have different natural abilities that make them suitable for different types of work. Others, however, believe that both men and women can be equally suited to do any type of work.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 157, Academic)
154. Some say that because many people are living much longer, the age at which people retire from work should be raised considerably.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 29, Academic)
155. As children become adults, their social behaviour changes in some ways.
What are the main differences between young children’s social behaviour and that of adults?
To what extent are changes that take place good? (p. 53, Academic)
156. Many people assume that the goal of every country should be to produce more materials and goods.
To what extent do you agree or disagree that constantly increasing production is an appropriate goal? (p. 74, Academic)
157. Modern technology has made it easier for individuals to download copyrighted music and books from the Internet for no charge.
To what extent is this a positive or negative development? (p. 94, Academic)
158. Meat production requires relatively more land than crop production. Some people think that as land is becoming scarce, the world’s meat production should be reduced.
What measures could be taken to reduce the world’s meat consumption? What kinds of problem might such measures cause? (p. 112, Academic)
159. Some say that it would be better if the majority of employees worked from home instead of travelling to a workplace every day.
Do you think the advantages of working from home outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 131, Academic)
160. Some people feel that the legal age at which people can marry should be at least 21.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 151, Academic)
161. Some people think that there are now too many cars on the roads and that they are spoiling our town and cities.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 165, General Training)
162. In many parts of the world, there is continuous coverage of sport on television. Some people believe this discourages the young from taking part in any sport themselves.
Discuss this view and give your own opinion. (p. 48, Academic)
163. In the past, shopping was a routine domestic task. Many people nowadays regard it as a hobby.
To what extent do you think this is a positive trend? (p. 90, Academic)
164. Some people argue that it is more important to have an enjoyable job than to earn a lot of money. Others disagree and say that a good salary leads to a better life.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 114, Academic)
165. It is generally believed that the Internet is an excellent means of communication but some people suggest that it may not be the best place to find information.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 133, Academic)
166. In some countries, it is thought advisable that children begin formal education at four years old, while in others they do not have to start school until they are seven or eight.
How far do you agree with either of these views? (p. 152, Academic)
167. Some people choose to eat no meat or fish. They believe that this is not only better for their own health but also benefits the world as a whole.
Discuss this view and give your own opinion. (p. 171, Academic)
168. In spite of the many advances women have made in education and employment, they continue to be at a disadvantage when it comes to pay and promotion.
In your view, what should be done to promote equality of opportunity for men and women in the workplace? (p. 12, Academic)
169. Dieting to lose weight has become increasingly prevalent in the developed world.
Why do you think people nowadays are so concerned with body shape and size? (p. 22, Academic)
170. Convenience food will become increasingly prevalent and eventually replace traditional foods and traditional methods of food preparation.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 23, Academic)
171. In order to be truly employable, the educated person should be able to demonstrate not just knowledge but also the ability to work independently in teams.
How can teamwork best be encouraged and assessed in educational settings? (p. 28, Academic)
172. Success in formal ‘pen and paper’ examinations is often seen to be a sign of intelligence.
To what extent do you agree with the view that formal examinations measure intelligence.
(p. 29, Academic)
173. In many countries, students attend ‘cram schools’ for extra coaching in test-taking techniques.
What is your view of this practice? (p. 30, Academic)
174. Many people believe that formal ‘pen and paper’ examinations are not the best method of achieving educational achievement.
What is your view of examinations? (p. 31, Academic)
175. Many species of plants and animals have come and gone throughout the history of the Earth. From this perspective, extinction can be seen as part of a natural process. Some people have argued that we should not, therefore, make heroic efforts to preserve the natural habitats of endangered plants and animals when doing so would conflict with human interests.
To what extent do you agree with this view? (p. 37, Academic)
176. The importance of biodiversity is being more widely recognised as increasing numbers of species come under threat.
What can be done to maintain biodiversity? (p. 39, Academic)
177. As the English language becomes more widespread, some speakers of other languages fear that English loanwords are gradually replacing perfectly adequate native words.
To what extent do you believe that people should seek to protect the ‘purity’ of their language from the influence of English? (p. 45, Academic)
178. With regard to foreign language learning, the effectiveness of out-of-class learning is well-established.
What are the best ways of learning a foreign language outside of a classroom situation? (p. 45, Academic)
179. Many education systems throughout the world recognise the value of learning a foreign language and are seeking to improve the way foreign languages are taught.
What in your view is the best way of teaching a foreign language run schools and universities? (p. 46, Academic)
180. As English becomes more widespread as a lingua franca, there is concern that the values and culture of the English-speaking world will displace native values and cultures.
To what extent is this fear justified? (p. 46, Academic)
181. Sometimes misunderstandings occur among people from different cultures, even those who can communicate in a common language.
What factors can contribute to the breakdown of cross-cultural communication? (p. 46, Academic)
182. As languages such as English, Spanish and Mandarin become more widely spoken, there is a fear that many minority languages may die out. Some countries have taken steps to protect minority languages.
What is your view of this practice? (p. 47, Academic)
183. To what extent has information technology reduced social inequality? (p. 54, Academic)
184. New technologies of buying and selling are transforming the lives of consumers.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 55, Academic)
185. What influences our purchasing decisions?
Do we mainly buy things because we need them, or are other factors involved? (p. 61, Academic)
186. The increased availability of consumer credit in some countries has contributed to the problem of debt.
Who is responsible for high levels of indebtedness: the financial institutions that lend money or the individual who borrow money? (p. 62, Academic)
187. Learning to manage money is one of the key aspects of adult life.
How in your view can individuals best learn to manage their money? (p. 63, Academic)
188. In many countries, young people are granted certain privileges and responsibilities at the age of sixteen. Clearly parents have a responsibility to both care for and prepare their children as they approach this important milestone.
To what degree should parents intervene in the lives of their 14-15-year-old children? (p. 71, Academic)
189. What are the obligations of younger family members toward older relations? (p. 76, Academic)
190. What are the most significant consequences of population ageing? (p. 78, Academic)
191. Longer life spans and improvements on the health of older people suggest that people over the age of sixty-five can continue to live full and active lives.
In what ways can society benefit from the contribution that older people can make? (p. 79, Academic)
192. Many people believe that media coverage of celebrities is having a negative effect on children.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 87, Academic)
193. There is a good deal of evidence that increasing car use is contributing to global warming and having other undesirable effects on people’s health and well-being.
What can be done to discourage people from using their cars? (p. 95, Academic)
194. In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between inequality and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in more egalitarian societies. Others believe that high levels of personal achievement are possible only if individuals are free to succeed or fail according to their individual merits.
What is your view of the relationship between equality and personal success? (p. 97, Academic)
195. Modern lifestyles mean that many parents have little time for their children. Many children suffer because they do not get as much attention from their parents as they did in the past.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 88, Academic)
196. People nowadays work hard to buy more things. This has made our lives generally more comfortable but many traditional values and customs have been lost and this is a pity.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 89, Academic)
197. In most countries, multinational companies and their products are becoming more and more important. This trend is seriously damaging our quality of life.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 91, Academic)
198. In many countries television shows many foreign-made programmes. The dominance of imported entertainment is harmful to the cultures of these countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p.92, Academic)
199. Governments make rules to protect people from danger, for example by making people wear seat belts in cars or not allowing smoking in public buildings. However, many people believe there are too many rules nowadays.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 94, Academic)
200. Parents and teachers make many rules for children to encourage good behaviour and to protect them from danger. However, children would benefit from fewer rules and greater freedom.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 95, Academic)
201. In general, people do not have such a close relationship with their neighbours as they did in the past.
Why is this so, and what can be done to improve contact between neighbours? (p. 109, General Training)
202. Life nowadays is generally much more stressful than in the past.
Give some reasons why people suffer more from stress nowadays, and say what they can do to reduce it. (p. 110, General Training)
203. Computers and modems have made it possible for office workers to do much of their work from home instead of working in offices every day. Working from home should be encouraged as it is good for workers and employers.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 112, General Training)
204. It is often difficult for young people to find a good job without previous work experience. Governments should encourage employers to choose young people when they need new workers.
Do you agree or disagree? (p.113, General Training)
205. Nowadays many students have the opportunity to study for part or all of their courses in foreign countries. While studying abroad brings many benefits to individual students, it also has a number of disadvantages.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 115, General Training)
206. In some countries, it is common for students leaving school to do a gap year in which they travel, do voluntary work or do a job before going on to higher education. Although this may benefit students in a number of ways, it also has a number of disadvantages.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 116, General Training)
Objective IELTS Intermediate Student's Book
207. Working hours today are too long and people are not spending as much time as they should with their families or on leisure activities.
What is your opinion on this? (p. 44, Academic)
208. People today spend far more time watching sport than actually doing any themselves.
What are the factors influencing this change? (p. 82, Academic)
209. The world would be a poorer place without colour.
To what extent do you agree with this statement? (p. 97, Academic)
210. With the increase in use of the Internet, books will soon become unnecessary.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 108, Academic)
211. Some countries have come to rely on tourism as their major source of income. However, many people believe that the problems caused by tourism are more serious than those it has solved.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 123, Academic)
212. A larger proportion of people live and work in other countries today than at any time in the past. It is very probable that in the future there will be no borders and people will be able to move freely between countries.
To what extent do you agree with this opinion? (p. 135, Academic)
Objective IELTS Advanced Student's Book
213. Some people believe that professional sportsmen and women are paid too much money nowadays in relation to their usefulness to society.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 18, Academic)
214. The amount of sport shown on television every week has increased significantly and this is having an impact on live sports events.
Do you think the benefits of having more televised sports are greater than the disadvantages? (p. 18, Academic)
215. Recycling is now an essential measure: it is time for everyone in society to become more responsible towards the environment.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 45, Academic)
216. City living in the 21st century is stressful and offers no advantages.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 70, Academic)
217. Because of falling birth rates and better healthcare, the world’s population is getting steadily older and this trend is going to cause serious problems for society.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 96, Academic)
218. There are fewer and fewer employment opportunities for graduates entering the job market and this will have serious implications for higher education.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 97, Academic)
219. Television cannot replace the book as a learning tool, which is why children are less well educated today.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 122, Academic)
220. In many countries, there is a shortage of suitable people for essential jobs.
What do you think are the causes of this problem and what measures could be taken to solve it? (p. 135, Academic)
Objective IELTS Advanced Workbook
221. In today’s world, the dominance of global product brands is increasingly threatening our identity as individuals.
How far do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 44, Academic)
222. Email and text messaging have transformed communication, but they are seriously threatening the status of written language.
How far do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 45, Academic)
223. Due to the success of convenience food and ready-made meals, we are failing to pass on adequate culinary skills to the next generation.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 46, Academic).
224. People face far greater risks in our modern way of life than they did in the past.
How far do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 50, Academic)
225. Job satisfaction is far less important than job security in the modern workplace.
How far do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 52, Academic)
Kaplan IELTS 2009-2010 Edition
226. Some countries invest a lot of money in space research. While some people believe that this money could be better used to solve other problems on Earth (for example, environmental problems), others argue that space research brings many benefits for life on Earth.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 137, General Training)
227. The Internet has dramatically changed the way we access information. Some people think that there is a lot of harmful content with very little regulation online, and argue that strict policies are needed to regulate the Internet. Others oppose this view and think that the Internet should not be regulated.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 145, Academic)
228. Nowadays we are producing more and more garbage.
Why do you think this is happening?
What can governments do to help reduce the amount of garbage produced? (p. 148, Academic)
229. For a long time, there has been concern about the quality of the food we eat because of additives and contaminants. Recently, genetically modified food is becoming more common and is causing concern.
Is this concern justified or not? (p. 154, Academic)
230. Some people think the government should provide unemployed people with a free mobile phone and free access to the Internet to help them find jobs.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 155, Academic)
231. Some people think that recent innovations in technology have made life more comfortable and helped us to become more efficient by saving us time, while others argue that technology has made us less efficient.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 156, Academic)
232. In some countries, people spend a lot of money on their pets. They buy special food for their cats or dogs, buy them toys and often pay high fees for medical treatment. Some people think this is a waste of money.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a pet? Do people spend too much money on pets? (p. 157, General Training)
Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS
233. In today’s job market it is far more important to have practical skills than theoretical knowledge. In the future, job applicants may not need any formal qualifications.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 93, Academic)
234. In many countries, the level of crime is increasing and crimes are becoming more violent.
Why do you think this is and what can be done about it? (p. 97, Academic)
235. Whoever controls the media also controls opinions and attitudes of the people and there is little that can be done to rectify this.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 101, Academic)
Cambridge Vocabulary for IELTS Advanced
236. All education and healthcare should be funded by the government and free for everyone.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 47, Academic)
237. Obesity is now a major global epidemic.
What can be done to tackle this increasingly common problem? (p. 79, Academic)
238. Alternative energy sources that use the natural power of the wind, waves and sun are too expensive and complicated to replace the coal, oil and gas that we use to power our cities and transport.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 89, Academic)
239. Tourism has increased so much over the last 50 years that it is having a mainly negative impact on local inhabitants and the environment. However, others claim that it is good for the economy.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of tourism and give your own opinion. (p. 122, Academic)
240. The birth rate in most developed countries is predicted to begin to fall over the next 50 years. By 2030 it is estimated that over one-third of the population in most developed countries will be aged 65 and over.
What effects will these predictions have on developed countries if they prove true?
What can be done now to deal with the situation? (p. 54, Academic)
241. Many health problems in adults such as obesity and heart disease can be linked to poor diet. Research shows that it is important to encourage healthy eating patterns at an early age in order to avoid ill-health as an adult.
What action can be taken to encourage children to eat more healthily? (p. 189, Academic)
242. Children today play very violent games. This must be the reason for the increase in violence and crime in most major cities of the world.
What are your opinions on this? (p. 190, Academic)
243. Air pollution is growing in cities at an alarming rate.
What measures could be taken to address this problem? (p. 196, Academic)
244. It is generally accepted that smoking causes the deaths of large numbers of people. In order to address this problem governments should ban smoking in public places.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 204, Academic)
245. School children are becoming far too dependent on computers. This is having an alarming effect on reading and writing skills. Teachers need to avoid using computers in the classroom at all costs and go back to teaching basic study skills.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 215, Academic)
246. Some people consider computers to be more of a hindrance than a help. Others believe that they have greatly increased human potential.
How could computers be considered a hindrance? What is your opinion? (p. 41, Academic)
247. Some people feel that education should be provided exclusively by the state and that private education should be prohibited.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 45, Academic)
248. Although tourism is a very profitable business, it can have a damaging effect on local communities.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 46, Academic)
249. Workers in public services such as education and health-care are undervalued and underpaid, while others such as footballers, actors and company directors can earn a great deal more, yet contribute much less to society.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 47, Academic)
250. In some countries, the government gives money or other help to people who are unemployed.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of this? (p. 93, Academic)
251. These days more and more people are retraining for different careers in their thirties or forties.
Why is this happening?
Do you think it is more advantageous for individuals or society? (p. 93, Academic)
252. Many people around the world are dreaming of buying their own home even though this may cost a lot of money.
Consider opposing views on this, and present your own. (p. 93, Academic)
253. Schools these days teach subjects like Art and Music to students aged 7-14.
Explain why schools do this.
Some parents believe this is a waste of time.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 93, Academic)
254. People worldwide are leaving the countryside to live ion the city. This causes disruption to both the city and the countryside.
Describe these disruptions, and suggest how they might be reduced. (p. 93, Academic)
255. Governments worldwide are trying to make people use private cars less. However, private car use continues to increase.
If governments cannot make people forego their cars, what other ways are there to reduce the negative effects of so much car traffic? (p. 93, Academic)
256. Some universities assess students on examinations; others have a mix of assignments throughout the course and examinations.
Which system do you think is better? (p. 93, Academic)
257. Many countries these days have high immigration.
In your opinion, what are the disadvantages of this for the receiving country?
How could these disadvantages be reduced? (p. 116, Academic)
258. Many parents these days are sending their teenage children to another country to continue their education.
What are the advantages and disadvantages for the child’s family of doing this? (p. 130, Academic)
259. Doing voluntary work is far better for the volunteer than the community.
To what extent do you agree? (p. 134, Academic)
260. In some countries, art, craft, and music are taught at both primary and secondary school to all students.
Why might this be a good idea? (p. 135, Academic)
261. Around the world, children learn English as a second language at school. However, in some places, they also learn at kindergarten (pre-school care, when children are aged two to five).
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of learning English at kindergarten. (p. 138, Academic)
262. More and more people are living in big cities these days.
Why is this happening?
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this to society and the individual? (p. 141, Academic)
263. More and more information about the lives of celebrities is now found in newspapers, magazines, and online.
Why is this happening?
What are the drawbacks for the reading public? (p. 162, Academic)
264. There are many stages to life, for example, childhood, adolescence, young adulthood, and middle age.
Choose one that you consider the most difficult for men and one for women. It may be the same one.
Provide reasons for these difficulties and say how they may be overcome. (p. 173, General Training)
265. These days many countries help other countries by giving free food, medical, or other aid.
What are the benefits and drawbacks of this for countries that give and receive? (p. 316, Academic)
266. In some rich countries, the number of children at secondary and high school who are taking science subjects is declining.
What effects might this have on the children’s and their countries’ futures? How can children be encouraged to study science? (p. 332, Academic)
267. In some countries, health care is free, paid by the state. In other countries, payment is divided between the state and people themselves.
Discuss both systems and say which one is better. (p. 366, General Training)
268. In some countries, fathers are playing a greater role in raising their children.
Why is this happening?
What are the benefits of it? (p. 378, General Training)
Exam Essentials IELTS practice tests
269. In some societies, obesity is regarded as a major problem. Some people believe that junk food advertising is largely to blame for this and should be banned.
However, others feel that junk food advertising does not contribute to the problem and should not be banned.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 50, Academic)
270. Some people think that the fictional violence portrayed on television is harmless entertainment.
others disagree and think that it encourages violent behaviour.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 114, Academic)
271. In recent years, through the internet, air travel, trade and popular culture, globalisation has rapidly increased.
Many people believe that the increased interaction between nations through globalisation is a good thing.
Discuss this view and give your own opinion. (p. 155, Academic)
272. Concern for the environment is growing rapidly and more and more people are choosing to be ‘eco-tourists’ — travelling in responsible, eco-friendly ways. As a result, the eco-tourism industry is expanding.
To what extent do you think this is a positive trend? (p. 156, Academic)
273. Concern for the environment is growing and more and more people are choosing to recycle. But some people suggest that recycling is not enough. They believe we need to consume less.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 177, Academic)
274. As greater numbers of people move to cities and as cities expand in size, city life loses its appeal.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 193, General Training)
275. Some people think it is easy to learn a language without the help of a teacher.
Do you agree or disagree with this opinion? Which method of learning has more advantages, self-study or with the help of a teacher? (p. 206, General Training)
276. Too much attention is paid to and too much money is spent on keeping pets, while people throughout the world are starving.
Discuss the arguments for and against keeping pets.
To what extent do you agree? (p. 66, Academic)
277. Some people feel that certain workers like nurses, doctors and teachers are undervalued and should be paid more, especially when other people like film actors or company bosses are paid huge sums of money that are out of proportion to the importance of the work that they do.
How far do you agree?
What criteria should be used to decide how much people are paid? (p. 95, Academic)
IELTS Graduation Student’s Book
278. Today’s teenagers have more stressful lives than previous generations.
Discuss this view and give your own opinion. (p. 33, Academic)
279. These days, the wealthy in society often throw away perfectly good products in order to replace them with more up-to-date models.
Do the environmental disadvantages of this development outweigh the economic advantages? (p. 35, Academic)
280. Violence in playgrounds is increasing. However, it is important that parents should teach children not to hit back at bullies.
Discuss this view and give your own opinion. (p. 38, Academic)
281. The increasing use of modern drug technology encourages the treatment of symptoms instead of treating the causes.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this? (p. 66, Academic)
282. An increasing number of people are turning to vegetarianism. Some people believe that people are following a vegetarian diet for reasons other than animal rights issues.
Do you agree with this?
Give reasons why some people are choosing to become vegetarian. (p. 68, Academic)
283. Supermarkets should only sell food produced from within their own country rather than imports from overseas.
What are your opinions on this? (p. 68, Academic)
284. There are serious concerns about the sale and production of genetically modified food. Yet this is necessary if we are to meet the demands of an increasing world population.
Give your opinions on this. (p. 71, Academic)
285. In some countries, privately owned transport systems have a poor safety record. Yet it is the government who have ultimate responsibility for public safety.
How can governments ensure that private transport companies do not neglect safety regulations? (p. 99, Academic)
286. Today’s low-cost airlines are able to offer fast and cheap travel. However, some people believe this is at a cost to the planet.
Suggest ways that governments and individuals could tackle the environmental impact of low-cost flights. (p. 99, Academic)
287. Some people believe that it is the duty of city authorities to provide cultural attractions such as museums and art galleries.
Others believe that this is a waste of money and that the focus should be on providing an effective infrastructure and efficient services.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (p. 132, Academic)
288. Does Art give our lives meaning and purpose or is it merely a distraction from real life?
How do you feel about this? (p. 134, Academic)
289. An increasing number of products for children are advertised on TV. Such advertisements sometimes rely on ‘pester power’* to persuade parents to buy the products.
Do you think children’s products should not be advertised on television?
Would this be unfair to manufacturers?
*the ability of children to make their parents buy things for them by continuing to ask for them until they agree to do it. Source: MED (p. 162, Academic)
IELTS Express Intermediate coursebook
290. Prison is not a cure for crime. To reduce crime in the long term, courts should significantly reduce prison sentences and focus on education and community work to help criminals not to re-offend.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 37, Academic)
291. In order to reduce crime, we need to attack the causes of crime such as poverty and lack of educational opportunities. It is not enough to simply have more police on the street and put more people into prison.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 39, Academic)
292. In some countries in the world, health service is free.
Some people feel that smokers should not get free treatment for smoking-related illnesses because they are knowingly harming themselves.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 69, Academic)
293. Governments around the world spend too much money on treating illnesses and diseases and not enough on health education and prevention.
Do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 71, Academic)
294. It is often argued that our family is the most important thing in our lives.
Why is our family so important?
Which other people in our lives are important to us? Why? (p. 80, General Training)
295. Festivals play an important social and cultural role in many societies around the world.
What is the most important festival in your country?
How is the festival celebrated and why is it so important? (p. 81, General Training)
296. Many people say we have a responsibility to look after the elderly people in our family or community.
Why is it important to take care of them?
How should we take care of them? (p. 83, General Training)
297. These days it is neither possible nor desirable for most people to stay in the same job throughout their working lives.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 98, Academic)
298. People should not take as much interest as they do in the lives of celebrities and the gossip surrounding them.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 108, General Training)
IELTS Express Upper Intermediate Coursebook
299. Schools do not teach the skills that students require once they leave school to establish a career. Only subjects applicable to the workplace should be taught at school.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 42, Academic)
300. The problems caused by work-related stress (such as loss of productivity) have become a concern for both employers and workers.
What do you think are the main causes of work-related stress and how can they be avoided? (p. 43, Academic)
301. Most high-level positions in companies are filled by men even though the workforce in many developed countries is more than 50 per cent female. Companies should be required to allocate a certain percentage of these positions to women.
To what extent do you agree? (p. 45, Academic)
302. The problem with society today is that it is essentially unbalanced, with some people being paid huge salaries to work very long hours, whilst others do not have a job and have too much time on their hands. There is no middle ground.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 51, Academic)
303. The generation gap between older and younger people in most countries in the world is simply too wide to be bridged.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? (p. 86, Academic)
304. Some people view teenage conflict with their parents as a necessary part of growing up, whilst others view it as something negative which should be avoided.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (p. 86, Academic)
305. Parents with undisciplined children should be made to follow compulsory ‘parenting skills’ classes where they can learn from professional teachers how to be good parents.
Do the advantages of this approach outweigh the disadvantages? (p. 86, Academic)
306. Research into ways to bridge the generation gap has focused on having parents and their children living each other’s lives for a day. This has involved exchanging daily routines inside and outside the home for 24 hours.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this approach? (p. 87, Academic)
307. Although modern life has brought with it improvements in people’s standard of living, people are not generally happy with their lives.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 104, Academic)
Step up to IELTS Student's book
308. Formal education methods, where the teacher instructs the whole class and the students work alone, are more reliable and produce better results than informal methods.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 48, Academic)
309. Some people warn that the era of the silver screen is coming to an end and that people will eventually lose interest in going to the cinema.
Do you agree or disagree with this view? (p. 73, General Training)
310. Shipping companies that allow oil to spill into the oceans should be made to pay all the clean-up costs. They should also receive heavy fines.
Discuss both these views. (p. 83, Academic)
311. Architects are to blame for the construction of many ugly buildings in our society today.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 89, Academic)
312. In the past, buildings reflected the culture of a society but today all modern buildings look alike.
How true do you think this is? (p. 89, Academic)
313. Architects are mainly concerned with individual buildings rather than with the effect these buildings have on our cities as a whole.
To what extent do you agree with this statement? (p. 90, Academic)
314. Some people argue that there is no point in preserving old buildings when land is so valuable in our cities. Others believe that old buildings are an important part of our heritage and should be preserved.
Discuss both these views. (p. 90, Academic)
315. In many major cities of the world, you will find large public buildings, both new and old.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of such buildings.
How important is it for a country to construct impressive public buildings when houses are what is really required? (p. 91, Academic)
316. Some governments try to control the way a national language is used. For example, they may restrict the introduction of foreign words, or the use of dialects, or they may demand that a certain language be used in schools.
What are the benefits and disadvantages of these policies?
Do you think they can ever be effective? (p. 108, Academic)
317. Learning a foreign language offers an insight into how people from other cultures think and see the world. The teaching of a foreign language should be compulsory at all primary schools.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? (p. 108, Academic)
Action Plan for IELTS Academic module
318. Some parents believe that extra private lessons outside school hours, where students work alone with a teacher, can help them do better at school. Others disagree.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of private tuition? (p. 71, Academic)
319. Traffic connection seems to be increasing.
What do you think are the causes of traffic congestion and what, if anything, can be done to reduce the problems? (p. 71, Academic)
320. Water is an increasingly valuable resource, but people continue to waste a lot of it. Some governments want to impose permanent water restrictions on domestic and agricultural use. Others feel we should put more effort into recycling water.
To what extent do you agree with these two solutions? (p. 74, Academic)
321. The number of overweight children in developed countries is increasing. Some people think this is due to problems such as the growing number of fast-food outlets. Others believe that parents are to blame for not looking after their children’s health.
To what extent do you agree with these views? (p. 105, Academic)
322. People should never eat meat because raising animals for human consumption is cruel.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 405, Academic)
323. Some people believe that studying abroad is important because it expands a person’s knowledge and understanding of the world. Others feel that it is better to study at home because that is the best way to prepare for a career in the student’s own country.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (p. 412, Academic)
324. These days’ children are surrounded by electronic devices such as personal computers, tablet computers and smartphones, and they learn to use them at a very early age.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this situation? (p. 413, Academic)
325. Zoos are inhumane and should be abolished.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 418, Academic)
326. Many stores sell organic fruits and vegetables (produced without the use of chemical fertilisers, pesticides, and herbicides) even though they often cost more than conventional fruits and vegetables.
Why do some people prefer to eat organic food?
Do you think organic food is worth the extra cost? (p. 420, Academic)
327. Some people think that physical education classes are an important part of a child’s education. Others believe that it is more important to focus on academics during school time.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion. (p. 211, Academic)
328. A growing number of people rely on restaurants and convenience food (frozen food and packaged meals) rather than home-cooked food to supply most of their meals.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of eating this way? (p. 213, Academic)
IELTS Practice Tests 1 Student's Book
329. It has been claimed that workers over 50 are not responsive to rapidly changing ideas in the modern workplace and that for this reason younger workers are to be preferred.
To what extent would you support or reject this idea? (p. 20, Academic)
330. The international community should reduce or eliminate the debts of the world’s poorest countries.
To what extent would you support or reject this proposal? (p. 36, Academic)
331. Tourism is a modern form of colonialism. It distorts local economies, causes environmental damage and ruins the places it exploits.
To what extent would you support or reject this idea? (p. 52, Academic)
332. Sports which depend on violence for their entertainment, such as boxing and wrestling, have no place in a civilised society and should be banned.
To what extent would you support or reject this idea? (p. 70, Academic)
333. Many governments are now trying to prevent global warming and the effect it has on our environment. They are trying to reduce the things which contribute to global warming such as pollution from cars and destruction of the rain forests.
Describe what you think the problem is and the actions you think your government should take to solve it. (p. 92, General Training)
334. Schools and parents often require their pupils to wear school uniforms. The pupils, however, usually dislike this. There are acceptable arguments both for and against the wearing of school uniforms.
Explain some of the arguments both for and against the wearing of school uniforms and state what is your opinion on the subject. (p. 93, General Training)
IELTS Practice Tests 2 Student's Book
335. Subjects such as Art, Sport and Music are being dropped from the school curriculum for subjects such as Information Technology. Many people feel that children suffer as a result of these changes.
To what extent would you support or reject the idea of removing these subjects from the school curriculum? (p. 20, Academic)
336. Young drivers are careless and overconfident, and too many are killed in accidents. To eliminate this problem, we could teach children the skills of safe driving while they are at school.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 36, Academic)
337. Every country needs to remember its past.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? (p. 54, Academic)
338. The burning of oil for transport, especially in private cars, is wasteful and environmentally irresponsible. Taxation on petrol should be increased to very high levels to discourage the use of private cars.
To what extent do you support or reject this idea? (p. 70, Academic)
339. The use of televisions and computers by children should be restricted by their parents.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 91, General Training)
340. We know that cars cause pollution and other problems. Many city centres now have car-free areas, and in some countries, drivers have to pay a pollution tax.
However, the car is still very popular as it is the cheapest and most comfortable way to travel.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 92, Academic)
IELTS Preparation and Practice Reading and Writing General Training Module
341. Television is now widespread in all communities. Almost everyone has access to this medium on a daily basis. However, the effects of television are not always positive.
What are some of the negative effects of television?
What can be done to minimise these bad effects? (p. 120, General Training)
342. In many countries, the problem of drug-taking is increasing. Governments and the general public are particularly concerned about young people using illegal drugs such as marijuana, ecstasy and heroin.
What methods could be used to prevent young people from taking drugs?
Is it appropriate to send young drug-users to prison? (p. 136, General Training)
343. The average British child between the ages of 4 and 15 watches more than 20 hours of television a week. Studies show she/he only spends about 7 hours per week on physical exercise.
How does this compare with the situation in your country? How can parents make sure children get enough exercise? (p. 138, General Training)
344. Air traffic is increasingly leading to more noise, pollution and airport construction. One reason for this is the growth in low-cost passenger flights, often to holiday destinations.
Some people say that governments should try to reduce air traffic by taxing it more heavily.
Do you agree or disagree? (p. 34, Academic)
345. Many people are using credit cards or loans to run up huge personal debts that they may be unable to repay. It should, therefore, be made more difficult for individuals to borrow large amounts of money.
What are your opinions on this? (p. 66, Academic)
346. Directors of large companies often receive much bigger salary increases than ordinary workers. Employers’ organisations say that in a global market this is necessary to attract the best management talent.
What are your views? (p. 94, Academic)
347. Students should pay the full cost of their university studies, rather than have free higher education provided by the state.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? (p. 116, Academic)
Foundation IELTS Masterclass Student’s Book
348. An increase in tourism has had a significant effect on traditional society's way of life. Many people argue that this change has brought progress.
Do you agree? (p. 32, Academic)
349. Many people worry about the effects of living alone. Others think that technology is replacing the need for living together.
Discuss. (p. 32, Academic)
350. Population growth has been rapid in the last 50 years. This is causing high levels of unemployment.
What can governments do to solve this problem? (p. 32, Academic)
351. Unemployment causes many problems in society.
Governments should provide jobs and income for everyone.
To what extent do you agree? (p. 32, Academic)
352. Many people think that individuals should be free to wear what they want when they go to school or work.
To what extent do you agree? (p. 36, Academic)
353. Home entertainment is becoming so good that we no longer need traditional entertainment venues like cinemas, theatres, or concert halls.
To what extent do you agree? (p. 56, Academic)