EVALUATION CRITERIA:

TASK RESPONSE
COHERENCE/COHESION
LEXICAL RESOURCES
GRAMMATICAL RANGE AND ACCURACY

WRITING TASK 1

TASK RESPONSE:

COHERENCE & COHESION:

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LEXICAL RESOURCES:

GRAMMATICAL RANGE & ACCURACY:

WRITING TASK 2

TASK RESPONSE:

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COHERENCE & COHESION:

LEXICAL RESOURCES:

GRAMMATICAL RANGE & ACCURACY:

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SCORING CRITERIA:

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HOW TO GET A BAND SCORE 7:

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HOW TO START:

 Identify the issue

 Be clear about what you need to do
 Plan your answer
 Use a range of appropriate words
 Make a sketch of the organization
 Use appropriate linking and sequencing words (cohesive devices)
 Outline the main idea and supporting items
 Try to use variety and an acceptable level of complexity
 Pay attention to the spelling, punctuation and standard English
 Pay attention to grammar accuracy
 Try to use a mix of complex and simple sentences

Steps in writing essay:

1. Analyze the question

2. Think about the answer
3. Plan the answer
4. Write the answer
5. Check the answer

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ACADEMIC ESSAY FORMS:

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2

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3

TASK 2 TYPES:
1. AGREE/DISAGREE
2. ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES
3. OPINION
4. DIRECT QUESTION
5. SOLUTION

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1. AGREE/DISAGREE

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2. ADVANTAGES/DISADVANTAGES

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3. OPINION

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4. DIRECT QUESTION

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5. SOLUTION

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COHESION MAKERS & LINKING WORDS:

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ACADEMIC TASK 1 TYPES:

1. BAR CHART

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2. LINE GRAPH

The line graph compares the number of cars stolen for every 1000 vehicles in four
countries from 1990 to 1999. Overall, it can be seen that car thefts were far higher in Great
Britain than in the other three counties throughout the whole time frame.
To begin, car thefts in Sweden, France and Canada followed a fairly similar pattern over the
first five years, all remaining at between 5 and 10 per thousand. The general trend though for
France and Canada was a decline in the number of vehicles stolen over the period, with both at
around 6 in 1999. In contrast, Sweden experienced an upward trend, starting the period at
approximately 8, and finishing at just under 15.
Interestingly, car thefts in Great Britain started at 18 per thousand, which far exceeded that
of the other countries. It then fluctuated over the next nine years, reaching a peak of 20 thefts
per 1000 in 1996, and ending the period slightly lower than where it began, at approximately 17
per thousand. (Words 174)

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3. TABLE

The table illustrates the percentage of school children attending four different types of
secondary school from 2000 to 2009. It is evident that whereas the community schools
experienced a marked increase in the proportion of those attending their
institutions over the period, the others saw a corresponding decline.

To begin, the percentage of pupils in voluntary-controlled schools fell from just over half
to only 20% or one fifth from 2000 to 2009. Similarly, the relative number of children in
grammar schools -- just under one quarter -- dropped by half in the same period. As for
the specialist schools, the relatively small percentage of pupils attending this type of
school (12%) also fell, although not significantly.

However, while the other three types of school declined in importance, the opposite was
true in the case of community schools. In fact, while only a small minority of 12% were
educated in these schools in 2000, this figure increased to well over half of all pupils
during the following nine years. (170 Words)

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 4. PIE CHART

The four pie charts compare the electricity generated between Germany and France during 2009, and it is
measured in billions kWh. Overall, it can be seen that conventional thermal was the main source of electricity in
Germany, whereas nuclear was the main source in France.

The bulk of electricity in Germany, whose total output was 560 billion kWh, came from conventional thermal, at
59.6%. In France, the total output was lower, at 510 billion kWh, and in contrast to Germany, conventional thermal
accounted for just 10.3%, with most electricity coming from nuclear power (76%). In Germany, the proportion of
nuclear power generated electricity was only one fifth of the total.

Moving on to renewables, this accounted for quite similar proportions for both countries, ranging from around 14%
to 17% of the total electricity generated. In detail, in Germany, most of the renewables consisted of wind and
biomass, totaling around 75%, which was far higher than for hydroelectric (17.7%) and solar (6.1%). The situation
was very different in France, where hydroelectric made up 80.5% of renewable electricity, with biomass, wind and
solar making up the remaining 20%. Neither country used geothermal energy.

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 5. DIAGRAM/PROCESS

The illustrations show how chocolate is produced.

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

The diagram explains the process for the making of chocolate. There are a total of ten stages
in the process, beginning with the growing of the pods on the cacao trees and culminating in
the production of the chocolate.

To begin, the cocoa comes from the cacao tree, which is grown in the South American and
African continents and the country of Indonesia. Once the pods are ripe and red, they are
harvested and the white cocoa beans are removed. Following a period of fermentation, they
are then laid out on a large tray so they can dry under the sun. Next, they are placed into large
sacks and delivered to the factory. They are then roasted at a temperature of 350 degrees,
after which the beans are crushed and separated from their outer shell. In the final stage, this
inner part that is left is pressed and the chocolate is produced. (152 words)

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 6. MAP
‘The two maps below show the changes in the town of Denham from
1986 to the present day. Summarise the information by selecting and
reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.’

The maps illustrate the main changes which have taken place in the town of Denham from
1986 to the present moment.

Overall, the town has most notably shown an increase in housing development, which
indicates a higher population and a move away from agriculture and farming.

One change that stands out is that there has been a significant redevelopment over the whole
period. To the east of the river stoke, housing now dominates the area of what was once
farmland. In 1986 there were shops and just a handful of residential properties. Now there are
neither shops nor farmland left, although the post office is still there. The bridge over the river
stoke still stands as it did in 1986.

Another noticeable change is that more roads have been built around the housing complex.
Additionally, the gardens that were in front of the large house in 1986, have been removed and
the house has been expanded and converted into a retirement home. The primary school still
stands and has been extended in the decades since. (175 words)

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7. MULTIPLE TASKS (DIAGRAM/TABLE - PIE CHART/BAR CHART……..)

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TASK 1 USEFUL VOCABULARY:

1. As is presented in the diagram(s)/ graph(s)/ pie chart(s)/

table...
2. As (is) shown in the illustration...
3. As can be seen in the...
4. As the diagrams suggest...
5. According to the...
6. Categorically speaking...
7. Getting back to the details...
8. Now, turning to the details...
9. The table data clearly shows that...
10. The diagram reveals that...
11. The data suggest that...
12. The graph gives the figure...
13. It is interesting to note that...
14. It is apparently seen that...
15. It is conspicuous that...
16. It is explicitly observed that...
17. It is obvious...
18. It is clear from the data...
19. It is worth noticing that...
20. It is crystal clear/ lucid that...
21. It can be clearly observed that...
22. It could be plainly viewed that...
23. It could be noticed that...
24. We can see that...

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GENERAL TASK 1 TYPES:

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GENERAL TASK 1 USEFUL PHRASES:

Apologizing Expressing concern

Please accept my sincere apologies for… I am writing to express my concern about…
I am very sorry about… I was very sorry to learn that…
Sorry for… I was really sorry to hear that…

Asking for help Giving bad news

I’d be grateful if you could… I regret to advise you that…
I would appreciate it if you could… I regret to inform you that…
Could you please… I am sorry to tell you that…

Asking for information Giving good news

I am writing to enquire about… I am pleased to advise you that…
I am writing to find out about… I am delighted to inform you that…
I would like to know about… I am happy to tell you that…

Closing Giving reasons

I look forward to hearing from you, This is due to…
I look forward to seeing you, This is a result of
I look forward to meeting you, … This is because…

Complaining Making suggestions

I am writing to express my dissatisfaction with… Perhaps it would be useful to…
I am writing to express my annoyance with… Perhaps it would be possible to…
I’m not happy with… It might be helpful to…

Expressing satisfaction Thanking

I was delighted to learn that… I am extremely grateful for…
I was thrilled to hear that… I really appreciate…
I was very glad to hear that… Thank you for…

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IELTS GENERAL TASK 1: SAMPLE QUESTIONS
Formal
You are looking for a full-time job. Write a letter to an employment agency. In your
letter:
introduce yourself
explain what sort of job you would like
say what experience and skills you have
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir/Madam
Semi-formal
You are going to take a short holiday in Singapore and you want to rent a holiday
apartment while you are there. Write to the tourist information office. In your letter:
explain what you need
say when you plan to be there
ask for information about prices
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Mr/Ms __________
Informal
You stayed at your friend’s house when you attended a conference in Australia.
Unfortunately, you left a large envelope with some important documents in your room.
Write a letter to your friend. In the letter:
thank your friend for the stay
describe where you left the envelope
ask him/her to return it to you by post
Begin your letter as follows: Dear _________
TASK 2 SAMPLE ESSAYS:

Some people believe that school children should not be given homework by their
teachers, whereas others argue that homework plays an important role in the education
of children. Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.
People’s opinions differ as to whether or not school children should be given homework. While
there are some strong arguments against the setting of homework, I still believe that it is a
necessary aspect of education.
There are several reasons why people might argue that homework is an unnecessary burden
on children. Firstly, there is evidence to support the idea that homework does nothing to
improve educational outcomes. Countries such as Finland, where school children are not given
homework, regularly top international educational league tables and outperform nations where
setting homework is the norm. Secondly, many parents would agree that the school day is
already long enough, and leaves their children too tired to do further study when they return
home. Finally, it is recognized that play time is just as beneficial as study time from the
perspective of brain development.
In spite of the above arguments, I support the view that homework has an important role to
play in the schooling of children. The main benefit of homework is that it encourages
independent learning and problem solving, as children are challenged to work through tasks
alone and at their own pace. In doing so, students must apply the knowledge that they have
learnt in the classroom. For example, by doing mathematics exercises at home, students
consolidate their understanding of the concepts taught by their teacher at school. In my view, it
is important for children to develop an independent study habit because this prepares them to
work alone as adults.
In conclusion, homework certainly has its drawbacks, but I believe that the benefits outweigh
them in the long term.
(270 words, band 9)

Some universities now offer their courses on the Internet so that people can study
online. Is this a positive or negative development?
It is true that online courses are becoming a common feature of university education.
Although there are some drawbacks of Internet-based learning, I would argue that there
are far more benefits.
The main drawback of the trend towards online university courses is that there is less
direct interaction. Students may not have the opportunity to engage face-to-face with

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their teachers, and will instead have to rely on written forms of communication.
Similarly, students who study online do not come into direct contact with each other,
and this could have a negative impact on peer support, discussion and exchange of
ideas. For example, whereas students on traditional courses can attend seminars and
even discuss their subjects over coffee after lessons, online learners are restricted to
chatting through website forum areas. These learners may also lack the motivation and
element of competition that face-to-face group work brings.
Despite the negatives mentioned above, I believe that online university courses are a
positive development for various reasons. Firstly, they allow learners to study in a
flexible way, meaning that they can work whenever and wherever are convenient, and
they can cover the material at their own pace. Secondly, the cost of a university
education can be greatly reduced, while revenues for institutions may increase as more
students can be taught. Finally, online learning offers open access to anybody who is
willing to study, regardless of age, location, ability and background. For example, my
uncle, who is 65 years old, has recently enrolled on an online MBA course in a different
country, which would have been impossible in the days before Internet-based
education.
In conclusion, while I recognize the possible disadvantages of online learning, I consider
it to be a positive development overall.

It is inevitable that traditional cultures will be lost as technology develops. Technology

and traditional cultures are incompatible. To what extent do you agree or disagree
with this view?
Some people believe that technological developments lead to the loss of traditional
cultures. I partly agree with this assertion; while it may be true in the case of some
societies, others seem to be unaffected by technology and the modern world.
On the one hand, the advances in technology that has driven industrialization in
developed countries have certainly contributed to the disappearance of traditional ways
of life. For example, in pre-industrial Britain, generations of families grew up in the same
small village communities. These communities had a strong sense of identity, due to
their shared customs and beliefs. However, developments in transport, communications
and manufacturing led to the dispersal of families and village communities as people

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moved to the cities in search of work. Nowadays most British villages are inhabited by
commuters, many of whom do not know their closest neighbors.
On the other hand, in some parts of the world traditional cultures still thrive. There are
tribes in the Amazon Rainforest, for example, that have been completely untouched by
the technological developments of the developed world. These tribal communities
continue to hunt and gather food from the forest, and traditional skills are passed on to
children by parents and elders. Other traditional cultures, such as farming communities
in parts of Africa, are embracing communications technologies. Mobile phones give
farmers access to information, from weather predictions to market prices, which helps
them to prosper and therefore supports their culture.
In conclusion, many traditional ways of life have been lost as a result of advances in
technology, but other traditional communities have survived and even flourished.

Most people have forgotten the meaning behind traditional or religious festivals;
during festival periods, people nowadays only want to enjoy themselves. To what
extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Some people argue that we no longer remember the original meaning of festivals, and
that most of us treat them as opportunities to have fun. While I agree that enjoyment
seems to be the priority during festival times, I do not agree that people have forgotten
what these festivals mean.
On the one hand, religious and traditional festivals have certainly become times for
celebration. In the UK, Christmas is a good example of a festival period when people are
most concerned with shopping, giving and receiving presents, decorating their homes
and enjoying traditional meals with their families. Most people look forward to
Christmas as a holiday period, rather than a time to practice religion. Similar behavior
can be seen during non-religious festivals, such as Bonfire Night. People associate this
occasion with making fires, watching firework displays, and perhaps going to large
events in local parks; in other words, enjoyment is people’s primary goal.
However, I disagree with the idea that the underlying meaning of such festivals has been
forgotten. In UK primary schools, children learn in detail about the religious reasons for
celebrating Christmas, Easter and a variety of festivals in other religions. For example, in
late December, children sing Christmas songs which have a religious content, and they

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may even perform nativity plays telling the story of Jesus’ birth. Families also play a role
in passing knowledge of religious festivals’ deeper significance on to the next
generation. The same is true for festivals that have a historical background, such as
Bonfire Night or Halloween, in the sense that people generally learn the stories behind
these occasions at an early age.
In conclusion, although people mainly want to enjoy themselves during festivals, I
believe that they are still aware of the reasons for these celebrations.

Extreme sports such as sky diving and skiing are very dangerous and should be
banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
In recent years, extreme sports have become increasingly popular, and some people
argue that governments should prohibit them. I completely disagree with the idea that
these sports are too dangerous, and I therefore believe that they should not be banned.
In my opinion, so-called extreme sports are not as dangerous as many people think. All
sports involve some element of risk, and there should always be clear regulations and
safety procedures to reduce the possibility of accidents. People who take part in
extreme sports are usually required to undergo appropriate training so that the dangers
are minimized. For example, anyone who wants to try skydiving will need to sign up for
lessons with a registered club, and beginners are not allowed to dive solo; they must be
accompanied by an experienced professional. Finally, the protective equipment and
technology used in sports from motor racing to mountain climbing is constantly
improving safety.
While I support regulations and safety measures, I believe that it would be wrong, and
almost impossible, to ban extreme sports. In the first place, we should all be free to
decide how we spend our leisure time; as long as we understand the risks, I do not
believe that politicians should stop us from enjoying ourselves. However, an even
stronger argument against such a ban would be the difficulty of enforcing it. Many of
the most risky sports, like base jumping or big wave surfing, are practiced far away from
the reach of any authorities. I cannot imagine the police being called to stop people
from parachuting off a mountain face or surfing on an isolated beach.
In conclusion, I would argue that people should be free to enjoy extreme sports as long
as they understand the risks and take the appropriate precautions.

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In many countries, a small number of people earn extremely high salaries. Some
people believe that this is good for the country, but others think that governments
should not allow salaries above a certain level.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about whether governments should introduce a maximum
wage. While in some ways it may seem reasonable to allow people to earn as much as
companies are willing to pay, I personally believe that employee remuneration should
be capped at a certain level.
There are various reasons why it might be considered beneficial to allow people to be
paid extremely high salaries. If companies offer excellent pay packages, they can attract
the most talented people in their fields to work for them. For example, technology
companies like Google are able to employ the best programmers because of the huge
sums that they are willing to pay. Furthermore, these well-paid employees are likely to
be highly motivated to work hard and therefore drive their businesses successfully. In
theory, this should result in a thriving economy and increased tax revenues, which
means that paying high salaries benefits everyone.
However, I agree with those who argue that there should be a maximum wage. By
introducing a limit on earnings, the pay-gap between bosses and employees can be
reduced. Currently, the difference between normal and top salaries is huge, and this can
demotivate workers who feel that the situation is unfair. With lower executive salaries,
it might become feasible to introduce higher minimum wages, and everybody would be
better off. One possible consequence of greater equality could be that poverty and
crime rates fall because the general population will experience an improved standard of
living.
In conclusion, it seems to me that it would be better, on balance, for governments to set
a limit on the wages of the highest earners in society.

Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way
to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Climate change represents a major threat to life on Earth, but some people argue that
we need to accept it rather than try to stop it. I completely disagree with this opinion,
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because I believe that we still have time to tackle this issue and reduce the human
impact on the Earth's climate.
There are various measures that governments and individuals could take to prevent, or
at least mitigate, climate change. Governments could introduce laws to limit the carbon
dioxide emissions that lead to global warming. They could impose “green taxes” on
drivers, airline companies and other polluters, and they could invest in renewable
energy production from solar, wind or water power. As individuals, we should also try to
limit our contribution to climate change, by becoming more energy efficient, by flying
less, and by using bicycles and public transport. Furthermore, the public can affect the
actions of governments by voting for politicians who propose to tackle climate change,
rather than for those who would prefer to ignore it.
If instead of taking the above measures we simply try to live with climate change, I
believe that the consequences will be disastrous. To give just one example, I am not
optimistic that we would be able to cope with even a small rise in sea levels. Millions of
people would be displaced by flooding, particularly in countries that do not have the
means to safeguard low-lying areas. These people would lose their homes and their
jobs, and they would be forced to migrate to nearby cities or perhaps to other countries.
The potential for human suffering would be huge, and it is likely that we would see
outbreaks of disease and famine, as well as increased homelessness and poverty.
In conclusion, it is clear to me that we must address the problem of climate change, and
I disagree with those who argue that we can find ways to live with it.

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.
People have different views about how governments should measure their countries’
progress. While economic progress is of course essential, I agree with those who believe
that other measures of progress are just as important.
There are three key reasons why economic growth is seen as a fundamental goal for
countries. Firstly, a healthy economy results in job creation, a high level of employment,
and better salaries for all citizens. Secondly, economic progress ensures that more
money is available for governments to spend on infrastructure and public services. For
example, a government with higher revenues can invest in the country's transport

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network, its education system and its hospitals. Finally, a strong economy can help a
country’s standing on the global stage, in terms of its political influence and trading
power.
However, I would argue that various other forms of progress are just as significant as
the economic factors mentioned above. In particular, we should consider the area of
social justice, human rights, equality and democracy itself. For example, the treatment
of minority groups is often seen as a reflection of the moral standards and level of
development of a society. Perhaps another key consideration when judging the progress
of a modern country should be how well that country protects the natural environment,
and whether it is moving towards environmental sustainability. Alternatively, the
success of a nation could be measured by looking at the health, well-being and
happiness of its residents.
In conclusion, the economy is obviously a key marker of a country’s success, but social,
environmental and health criteria are equally significant.
(262 words, band 9)

As well as making money, businesses also have social responsibilities. To what extent
do you agree or disagree?
Businesses have always sought to make a profit, but it is becoming increasingly common
to hear people talk about the social obligations that companies have. I completely agree
with the idea that businesses should do more for society than simply make money.
On the one hand, I accept that businesses must make money in order to survive in a
competitive world. It seems logical that the priority of any company should be to cover
its running costs, such as employees’ wages and payments for buildings and utilities. On
top of these costs, companies also need to invest in improvements and innovations if
they wish to remain successful. If a company is unable to pay its bills or meet the
changing needs of customers, any concerns about social responsibilities become
irrelevant. In other words, a company can only make a positive contribution to society if
it is in good financial health.
On the other hand, companies should not be run with the sole aim of maximizing profit;
they have a wider role to play in society. One social obligation that owners and
managers have is to treat their employees well, rather than exploiting them. For

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example, they could pay a “living wage” to ensure that workers have a good quality of
life. I also like the idea that businesses could use a proportion of their profits to support
local charities, environmental projects or education initiatives. Finally, instead of trying
to minimize their tax payments by using accounting loopholes, I believe that company
bosses should be happy to contribute to society through the tax system.
In conclusion, I believe that companies should place as much importance on their social
responsibilities as they do on their financial objectives. (285 words, band 9)

Although more and more people read news on the Internet, newspapers will remain
the most important source of news. Do you agree or disagree?
The Internet is beginning to rival newspapers as the best place to find information about
what is happening in the world. I believe that this trend will continue, and the Internet
will soon be just as important as the traditional press.
On the one hand, I believe that newspapers will continue to be a vital source of
information, even in the Internet age. Firstly, newspapers are the most traditional
means of communicating the news, and not everyone wants to or is able to use the
Internet instead. For example, old people or those in rural areas might not have the
ability or opportunity to get online, while many of us simply prefer newspapers even if
we do have Internet access. Secondly, newspapers can be trusted as reliable sources of
news because they employ professional journalists and editors. Finally, many people like
the experience of holding and reading a paper rather than looking at a computer screen.
However, the Internet is likely to become just as popular as newspapers for a variety of
reasons. The main reason is that it allows us much faster access to news in real time and
wherever we are, on different gadgets and mobile devices. Another key benefit of
online news compared to newspapers is the ability to share articles, discuss them with
other people, give our views, and even contribute with our own updates on social
media. For example, there has been an explosion in the use of platforms like Twitter and
YouTube where anyone can share their news and views. A final point is that this source
of news is less damaging to the environment.
In conclusion, I disagree with the view that newspapers will continue to be the main
source of news, because I believe that the Internet will soon be equally important.

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More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life, but city life can
be extremely difficult. Explain some of the difficulties of living in a city. How can
governments make urban life better for everyone?
Cities are often seen as places of opportunity, but there are also some major drawbacks
of living in a large metropolis. In my opinion, governments could do much more to
improve city life for the average inhabitant.
The main problem for anyone who hopes to migrate to a large city is that the cost of
living is likely to be much higher than it is in a small town or village. Inhabitants of cities
have to pay higher prices for housing, transport, and even food. Another issue is that
urban areas tend to suffer from social problems such as high crime and poverty rates in
comparison with rural areas. Furthermore, the air quality in cities is often poor, due to
pollution from traffic, and the streets and public transport systems are usually
overcrowded. As a result, city life can be unhealthy and stressful.
However, there are various steps that governments could take to tackle these problems.
Firstly, they could invest money in the building of affordable or social housing to reduce
the cost of living. Secondly, politicians have the power to ban vehicles from city centers
and promote the use of cleaner public transport, which would help to reduce both air
pollution and traffic congestion. In London, for example, the introduction of a
congestion charge for drivers has helped to curb the traffic problem. A third option
would be to develop provincial towns and rural areas, by moving industry and jobs to
those regions, in order to reduce the pressure on major cities.
In conclusion, governments could certainly implement a range of measures to enhance
the quality of life for all city residents. (273 words, band 9)

In many countries schools have severe problems with student behavior. What do you
think are the causes of this? What solutions can you suggest?

It is true that the behavior of the school pupils in some parts of the world has been
getting worse in recent years. There are a variety of reasons for this, but steps can
definitely be taken to tackle the problem.

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In my opinion, three main factors are to blame for the way young people behave at
school nowadays. Firstly, modern parents tend to be too lenient or permissive. Many
children become accustomed to getting whatever they want, and they find it difficult to
accept the demands of teachers or the limits imposed on them by school rules.
Secondly, if teachers cannot control their students, there must be an issue with the
quality of classroom management training or support within schools. Finally, children
are influenced by the behavior of celebrities, many of whom set the example that
success can be achieved without finishing school.

Student behavior can certainly be improved. I believe that the change must start with
parents, who need to be persuaded that it is important to set firm rules for children.
When children misbehave or break the rules, parents should use reasonable
punishments to demonstrate that actions have consequences. Also, schools could play
an important role in training both teachers and parents to use effective disciplinary
techniques, and in improving the communication between both groups. At the same
time, famous people, such as musicians and football players, need to understand the
responsibility that they have to act as role models to children.

In conclusion, schools will continue to face discipline problems unless parents, teachers
and public figures set clear rules and demonstrate the right behavior themselves.

New 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,
and would it be better if more good news was reported?

It is true that editors have to make difficult decisions about which news stories they
broadcast or publish, and their choices are no doubt influenced by a variety of factors.
In my opinion, we are exposed to too much bad news, and I would welcome a greater
emphasis on good news.

Editors face a range of considerations when deciding what news stories to focus on.
Firstly, I imagine that they have to consider whether viewers or readers will be
interested enough to choose their television channel or their newspaper over
competing providers. Secondly, news editors have a responsibility to inform the public
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about important events and issues, and they should therefore prioritize stories that are
in the public interest. Finally, editors are probably under some pressure from the
owners who employ them. For example, a newspaper owner might have particular
political views that he or she wants to promote.

It seems to me that people do become accustomed to negative news. We are exposed

on a daily basis to stories about war, crime, natural disasters and tragic human suffering
around the world. I believe that such repeated exposure gradually desensitizes people,
and we become more cynical about the world and more skeptical that we can do
anything to change it. I would prefer to see more positive news stories, such as reports
of medical staff after a natural disaster, or the kindness of volunteers who help in their
communities. This kind of news might inspire us to lead better lives.

In conclusion, it must be extremely difficult for editors to choose which news stories to
present, but I would like to see a more positive approach to this vital public service.

Some people believe unpaid community service should be compulsory part of high
school programs.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is sometimes argued that high school students should be made to do some work in
their local communities. While I disagree with the idea of making such programs
compulsory, I do believe that voluntary community service could benefit young people.

There are several reasons why I would argue against having compulsory community
service for secondary school students. Firstly, the school curriculum is already full with
important academic subjects, such as math, science and languages. For example, I
remember having an extremely busy timetable when I was at high school, and it would
have been impossible to add to it. Secondly, students’ performance in other subjects
would be affected if valuable study time were taken by charity work or neighboring
improvement schemes. Finally, I believe that teenage students would be reluctant to
take part in any program of obligatory work, and it could lead to poor motivation and
even bad behavior.

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On the other hand, the opportunity to do voluntary community service could be
extremely positive for high school students. By making these programs optional, schools
would ensure that only motivated students took part. These young people would gain
valuable experience in an adult working environment which could help to build their
self-confidence and enhance their skills. Having such experience and skills on their CVs
could greatly improve school leavers’ career prospects. For example, a period of
voluntary work experience might impress a university admissions officer or a future
employer.

The money spent by government on space programs would be better spent on vital
public services such as schools and hospitals.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Governments in some countries spend large amounts of money on space exploration

programs. I completely agree with the idea that these are a waste of money, and that
the funds should be allocated to public services.

There are several reasons why space programs should be abandoned. Firstly, it is
extremely expensive to train scientists and other staff involved with space missions, and
facilities and equipment also come at a huge cost to the government. Secondly, these
programs do not benefit normal people in our daily lives; they are simply vanity projects
for politicians. Finally, many missions to space fail completely, and the smallest
technological error can cost astronauts their lives. The Challenger space shuttle disaster
showed us that space travel is extremely dangerous, and in my opinion it is not worth
the risk.

I believe that the money from space programs should go to vital public services instead.
It is much cheaper to train doctors, teachers, police and other public service workers
than it is to train astronauts or the scientists and engineers who work on space
exploration projects. Furthermore, public servants do jobs that have a positive impact
on every member of society. For example, we all use schools, hospitals and roads, and
we all need the security that the police provide. If governments reallocated the money

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spent on space travel and research, many thousands of people could be lifted out of
poverty or given a better quality of life.

In conclusion, my view is that governments should spend money on services that benefit
all members of society, and it is wrong to waste our resources on projects that do not
improve our everyday lives.

Some people think that 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 views and give your own opinion.

People have different views about whether children should be taught to be competitive
or co-operative. While sprit of competition can sometimes be useful in life, I believe that
the ability to co-operate is more important.

On the one hand competition can be a great source of motivation for children. When
teachers use games or prizes to introduce an element of competitiveness into lessons, it
can encourage children to work harder to outdo the other pupils in the class. This kind
of healthy rivalry may help to build children’s self-confidence, while pushing them to
work independently and progress more quickly. When these children leave schools,
their confidence and determination will help them in competitive situations such as job
interviews. It can therefore be argued that competition should be encouraged in order
to prepare children for adult life.

On the other hand, it is perhaps even more important to prepare children for the many
aspects of adult life that require co-operation. In the workplace, adults are expected to
works in teams, follow instructions given by their superior, or supervise and support the
more junior members of staff. Team collaboration skills are much more useful than a
competitive determination to win. This is the attitude that I believe schools should
foster in young people. Instead of promoting the idea that people are either winners or
losers, teachers could show children that they gain more from working together.

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In conclusion, I can understand why people might want to encourage competitiveness in
children, but it seems to me that a co-operative attitude is much more desirable in adult
life.

Many people prefer to watch foreign films rather than locally produced films. Why
could this be?
Should governments give more financial support to local film industries?
It is true that foreign films are more popular in many countries than domestically
produced films. There could be several reasons why this is the case, and I believe that
governments should promote local film-making by subsidizing the industry.
There are various reasons why many people find foreign films more enjoyable than the
films produced in their own countries. Firstly, the established film industries in certain
countries have huge budgets for action, special effects and to shoot scenes in
spectacular locations. Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Avatar’ or the James Bond films are
examples of such productions, and their global appeal is undeniable. Another reason
why these big-budget films are so successful is that they often star the most famous
actors and actresses, and they are made by the most accomplished producers and
directors. The poor quality, low-budget filmmaking in many countries suffers in
comparison.
In my view, governments should support local film industries financially. In every
country, there may be talented amateur film-makers who just need to be given the
opportunity to prove themselves. To compete with big-budget productions from
overseas, these people need money to pay for film crews, actors and a host of other
costs related to producing high-quality films. If governments did help with these costs,
they would see an increase in employment in the film industry, income from film sales,
and perhaps even a rise in tourist numbers. New Zealand, for example, has seen an
increase in tourism related to the 'Lord of the Rings' films, which were partly funded by
government subsidies.

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In conclusion, I believe that increased financial support could help to raise the quality of
locally made films and allow them to compete with the foreign productions that
currently dominate the market. (294 words, band 9)

The older generations tend to have very traditional ideas about how people should
live, think and behave. However, some people believe that these ideas are not helpful
in preparing younger generations for modern life.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
It is true that many older people believe in traditional values that often seem
incompatible with the needs of younger people. While I agree that some traditional
ideas are outdated, I believe that others are still useful and should not be forgotten.
On the one hand, many of the ideas that elderly people have about life are becoming
less relevant for younger people. In the past, for example, people were advised to learn
a profession and find a secure job for life, but today’s workers expect much more variety
and diversity from their careers. At the same time, the ‘rules’ around relationships are
being eroded as young adults make their own choices about who and when to marry.
But perhaps the greatest disparity between the generations can be seen in their
attitudes towards gender roles. The traditional roles of men and women, as
breadwinners and housewives, are no longer accepted as necessary or appropriate by
younger people.
On the other hand, some traditional views and values are certainly applicable to the
modern world. For example, older generations attach great importance to working hard,
doing one’s best, and taking pride in one’s work, and these behaviors can surely benefit
young people as they enter today’s competitive job market. Other characteristics that
are perhaps seen as traditional are politeness and good manners. In our globalized
world, young adults can expect to come into contact with people from a huge variety of
backgrounds, and it is more important than ever to treat others with respect. Finally, I
believe that young people would lead happier lives if they had a more ‘old-fashioned’
sense of community and neighborliness.

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In conclusion, although the views of older people may sometimes seem unhelpful in
today’s world, we should not dismiss all traditional ideas as irrelevant.
(299 words, band 9)

Some people who have been in prison become good citizens later, and it is often
argued that these are the best people to talk to teenagers about the dangers of
committing a crime.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is true that ex-prisoners can become normal, productive members of society. I
completely agree with the idea that allowing such people to speak to teenagers about
their experiences is the best way to discourage them from breaking the law.
In my opinion, teenagers are more likely to accept advice from someone who can speak
from experience. Reformed offenders can tell young people about how they became
involved in crime, the dangers of a criminal lifestyle, and what life in prison is really like.
They can also dispel any ideas that teenagers may have about criminals leading
glamorous lives. While adolescents are often indifferent to the guidance given by older
people, I imagine that most of them would be extremely keen to hear the stories of an
ex-offender. The vivid and perhaps shocking nature of these stories is likely to have a
powerful impact.
The alternatives to using reformed criminals to educate teenagers about crime would be
much less effective. One option would be for police officers to visit schools and talk to
young people. This could be useful in terms of informing teens about what happens to
lawbreakers when they are caught, but young people are often reluctant to take advice
from figures of authority. A second option would be for school teachers to speak to their
students about crime, but I doubt that students would see teachers as credible sources
of information about this topic. Finally, educational films might be informative, but
there would be no opportunity for young people to interact and ask questions.
In conclusion, I fully support the view that people who have turned their lives around
after serving a prison sentence could help to deter teenagers from committing crimes.
(287 words, band 9)

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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.
People have different views about how much choice students should have with regard
to what they can study at university. While some argue that it would be better for
students to be forced into certain key subject areas, I believe that everyone should be
able to study the course of their choice.
There are various reasons why people believe that universities should only offer
subjects that will be useful in the future. They may assert that university courses like
medicine, engineering and information technology are more likely to be beneficial than
certain art degrees. From a personal perspective, it can be argued that these courses
provide more job opportunities, career progression, better salaries, and therefore an
improved quality of life for students who take them. On the societal level, by forcing
people to choose particular university subjects, governments can ensure that any
knowledge and skill gaps in the economy are covered. Finally, a focus on technology in
higher education could lead to new inventions, economic growth, and greater future
prosperity.
In spite of these arguments, I believe that university students should be free to choose
their preferred areas of study. In my opinion, society will benefit more if our students
are passionate about what they are learning. Besides, nobody can really predict which
areas of knowledge will be most useful to society in the future, and it may be that
employers begin to value creative thinking skills above practical or technical skills. If this
were the case, perhaps we would need more students of art, history and philosophy
than of science or technology.
In conclusion, although it might seem sensible for universities to focus only on the most
useful subjects, I personally prefer the current system in which people have the right to
study whatever they like. (297 words, band 9)

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In some countries, many more people are choosing to live alone nowadays than in the
past. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
In recent years it has become far more normal for people to live alone, particularly in
large cities in the developed world. In my opinion, this trend could have both positive
and negative consequences in equal measure.
The rise in one-person households can be seen as positive for both personal and
broader economic reasons. On an individual level, people who choose to live alone may
become more independent and self-reliant than those who live with family members. A
young adult who lives alone, for example, will need to learn to cook, clean, pay bills and
manage his or her budget, all of which are valuable life skills; an increase in the number
of such individuals can certainly be seen as a positive development. From an economic
perspective, the trend towards living alone will result in greater demand for housing.
This is likely to benefit the construction industry, estate agents and a whole host of
other companies that rely on homeowners to buy their products or services.
However, the personal and economic arguments given above can be considered from
the opposite angle. Firstly, rather than the positive feeling of increased independence,
people who live alone may experience feelings of loneliness, isolation and worry. They
miss out on the emotional support and daily conversation that family or flatmates can
provide, and they must bear the weight of all household bills and responsibilities; in this
sense, perhaps the trend towards living alone is a negative one. Secondly, from the
financial point of view, a rise in demand for housing is likely to push up property prices
and rents. While this may benefit some businesses, the general population, including
those who live alone, will be faced with rising living costs.
In conclusion, the increase in one-person households will have both beneficial and
detrimental effects on individuals and on the economy. (band 9)

Some people think that strict punishments for driving offences are the key to reducing
traffic accidents. Others, however, believe that other measures would be more
effective in improving road safety. Discuss both these views and give your own
opinion.

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People have differing views with regard to the question of how to make our roads safer.
In my view, both punishments and a range of other measures can be used together to
promote better driving habits.
On the one hand, strict punishments can certainly help to encourage people to drive
more safely. Penalties for dangerous drivers can act as a deterrent, meaning that people
avoid repeating the same offence. There are various types of driving penalty, such as
small fines, licence suspension, driver awareness courses, and even prison sentences.
The aim of these punishments is to show dangerous drivers that their actions have
negative consequences. As a result, we would hope that drivers become more
disciplined and alert, and that they follow the rules more carefully.
On the other hand, I believe that safe driving can be promoted in several different ways
that do not punish drivers. Firstly, it is vitally important to educate people properly
before they start to drive, and this could be done in schools or even as part of an
extended or more difficult driving test. Secondly, more attention could be paid to safe
road design. For example, signs can be used to warn people, speed bumps and road
bends can be added to calm traffic, and speed cameras can help to deter people from
driving too quickly. Finally, governments or local councils could reduce road accidents by
investing in better public transport, which would mean that fewer people would need to
travel by car.
In conclusion, while punishments can help to prevent bad driving, I believe that other
road safety measures should also be introduced. (269 words, band 9)

These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children while mothers go
out to work. What could be the reasons for this? Do you think it is a positive or a
negative development?
It is true that men are increasingly likely to take on the role of househusband, while
more women than ever are the breadwinners in their families. There could be several
reasons for this, and I consider it to be a very positive trend.
In recent years, parents have had to adapt to various changes in our societies. Equal
rights movements have made great progress, and it has become normal for women to

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gain qualifications and pursue a career. It has also become socially acceptable for men
to stay at home and look after their children. At the same time, the rising cost of living
has meant that both marriage partners usually need to work and save money before
starting a family. Therefore, when couples have children, they may decide who works
and who stays at home depending on the personal preference of each partner, or based
on which partner earns the most money.
In my view, the changes described above should be seen as progress. We should be
happy to live in a society in which men and women have equal opportunities, and in
which women are not put under pressure to sacrifice their careers. Equally, it seems
only fair that men should be free to leave their jobs in order to assume childcare
responsibilities if this is what they wish to do. Couples should be left to make their own
decisions about which parental role each partner takes, according to their particular
circumstances and needs.
In conclusion, the changing roles of men and women in the family are a result of wider
changes in society, and I believe that these developments are desirable.
(274 words, band 9)

Wild animals have no place in the 21st century, so protecting them is a waste of
resources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some people argue that it is pointless to spend money on the protection of wild animals
because we humans have no need for them. I completely disagree with this point of
view.
In my opinion, it is absurd to argue that wild animals have no place in the 21st century. I
do not believe that planet Earth exists only for the benefit of humans, and there is
nothing special about this particular century that means that we suddenly have the right
to allow or encourage the extinction of any species. Furthermore, there is no compelling
reason why we should let animals die out. We do not need to exploit or destroy every
last square meter of land in order to feed or accommodate the world’s population.
There is plenty of room for us to exist side by side with wild animals, and this should be
our aim.

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I also disagree with the idea that protecting animals is a waste of resources. It is usually
the protection of natural habitats that ensures the survival of wild animals, and most
scientists agree that these habitats are also crucial for human survival. For example,
rainforests produce oxygen, absorb carbon dioxide and stabilize the Earth’s climate. If
we destroyed these areas, the costs of managing the resulting changes to our planet
would far outweigh the costs of conservation. By protecting wild animals and their
habitats, we maintain the natural balance of all life on Earth.
In conclusion, we have no right to decide whether or not wild animals should exist, and I
believe that we should do everything we can to protect them. (269 words)

Happiness is considered very important in life.

Why is it difficult to define? What factors are important in achieving happiness?
It is no doubt true that the majority of people would like to be happy in their lives. While
the personal nature of happiness makes it difficult to describe, there do seem to be
some common needs that we all share with regard to experiencing or achieving
happiness.
Happiness is difficult to define because it means something different to each individual
person. Nobody can fully understand or experience another person’s feelings, and we all
have our own particular passions from which we take pleasure. Some people, for
example, derive a sense of satisfaction from earning money or achieving success,
whereas for others, health and family are much more important. At the same time, a
range of other feelings, from excitement to peacefulness, may be associated with the
idea of happiness, and the same person may therefore feel happy in a variety of
different ways.
Although it seems almost impossible to give a precise definition of happiness, most
people would agree that there are some basic preconditions to achieving it. Firstly, it is
hard for a person to be happy if he or she does not have a safe place to live and enough
food to eat. Our basic survival needs must surely be met before we can lead a pleasant
life. Secondly, the greatest joy in life is usually found in shared experiences with family

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and friends, and it is rare to find a person who is content to live in complete isolation.
Other key factors could be individual freedom and a sense of purpose in life.
In conclusion, happiness is difficult to define because it is particular to each individual,
but I believe that our basic needs for shelter, food and company need to be fulfilled
before we can experience it. (292 words, band 9)

Families who send their children to private schools should not be required to pay taxes
that support the state education system.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Some people believe that parents of children who attend private schools should not
need to contribute to state schools through taxes. Personally, I completely disagree with
this view.
For a variety of reasons, it would be wrong to reduce taxes for families who pay for
private education. Firstly, it would be difficult to calculate the correct amount of tax
reduction for these families, and staff would be required to manage this complex
process. Secondly, we all pay a certain amount of tax for public services that we may not
use. For example, most people are fortunate enough not to have to call the police or fire
brigade at any time in their lives, but they would not expect a tax reduction for this.
Finally, if wealthy families were given a tax discount for sending their children to private
schools, we might have a situation where poorer people pay higher taxes than the rich.
In my opinion, we should all be happy to pay our share of the money that supports
public schools. It is beneficial for all members of society to have a high quality education
system with equal opportunities for all young people. This will result in a well-educated
workforce, and in turn a more productive and prosperous nation. Parents of children in
private schools may also see the advantages of this in their own lives. For example, a
company owner will need well qualified and competent staff, and a well-funded
education system can provide such employees.
In conclusion, I do not believe that any financial concessions should be made for people
who choose private education. (269 words, band 9)

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Nowadays celebrities are more famous for their glamour and wealth than for their
achievements, and this sets a bad example to young people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
It is true that some celebrities are known for their glamorous lifestyles rather than for
the work they do. While I agree that these celebrities set a bad example for children, I
believe that other famous people act as positive role models.
On the one hand, many people do achieve fame without really working for it. They may
have inherited money from parents, married a famous or wealthy person, or they may
have appeared in gossip magazines or on a reality TV programme. A good example
would be Paris Hilton, who is rich and famous for the wrong reasons. She spends her
time attending parties and nightclubs, and her behaviour promotes the idea that
appearance, glamour and media profile are more important than hard work and good
character. The message to young people is that success can be achieved easily, and that
school work is not necessary.
On the other hand, there are at least as many celebrities whose accomplishments make
them excellent role models for young people. Actors, musicians and sports stars become
famous idols because they have worked hard and applied themselves to develop real
skills and abilities. They demonstrate great effort, determination and ambition, which is
required for someone who wants to be truly successful in their chosen field. An example
is the actor and martial artist Jackie Chan, who has become world famous through years
of practice and hard work. This kind of self-made celebrity can inspire children to
develop their talents through application and perseverance. (Add your own
conclusion)

When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. To what extent
do you agree or disagree?
Many people choose their jobs based on the size of the salary offered. Personally, I
disagree with the idea that money is the key consideration when deciding on a career,
because I believe that other factors are equally important.
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On the one hand, I agree that money is necessary in order for people to meet their basic
needs. For example, we all need money to pay for housing, food, bills, health care, and
education. Most people consider it a priority to at least earn a salary that allows them to
cover these needs and have a reasonable quality of life. If people chose their jobs based
on enjoyment or other non-financial factors, they might find it difficult to support
themselves. Artists and musicians, for instance, are known for choosing a career path
that they love, but that does not always provide them with enough money to live
comfortably and raise a family.
Nevertheless, I believe that other considerations are just as important as what we earn
in our jobs. Firstly, personal relationships and the atmosphere in a workplace are
extremely important when choosing a job. Having a good manager or friendly
colleagues, for example, can make a huge difference to workers’ levels of happiness and
general quality of life. Secondly, many people’s feelings of job satisfaction come from
their professional achievements, the skills they learn, and the position they reach, rather
than the money they earn. Finally, some people choose a career because they want to
help others and contribute something positive to society.
In conclusion, while salaries certainly affect people’s choice of profession, I do not
believe that money outweighs all other motivators.

Some people think that in the modern world we are more dependent on each other,
while others think that people have become more independent. Discuss both views
and give your own opinion.
People have different views about whether we are more or less dependent on others
nowadays. In my view, modern life forces us to be more independent than people were
in the past.
There are two main reasons why it could be argued that we are more dependent on
each other now. Firstly, life is more complex and difficult, especially because the cost of
living has increased so dramatically. For example, young adults tend to rely on their
parents for help when buying a house. Property prices are higher than ever, and without
help it would be impossible for many people to pay a deposit and a mortgage. Secondly,

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people seem to be more ambitious nowadays, and they want a better quality of life for
their families. This means that both parents usually need to work full-time, and they
depend on support from grandparents and babysitters for child care.
However, I would agree with those who believe that people are more independent
these days. In most countries, families are becoming smaller and more dispersed, which
means that people cannot count on relatives as much as they used to. We also have
more freedom to travel and live far away from our home towns. For example, many
students choose to study abroad instead of going to their local university, and this
experience makes them more independent as they learn to live alone. Another factor in
this growing independence is technology, which allows us to work alone and from any
part of the world.
In conclusion, while there are some reasons to believe that people now depend on each
other more, my own view is that we are more independent than ever.

Foreign visitors should pay more than local visitors for cultural and historical
attractions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
It is sometimes argued that tourists from overseas should be charged more than local
residents to visit important sites and monuments. I completely disagree with this idea.
The argument in favor of higher prices for foreign tourists would be that cultural or
historical attractions often depend on state subsidies to keep them going, which means
that the resident population already pays money to these sites through the tax system.
However, I believe this to be a very shortsighted view. Foreign tourists contribute to the
economy of the host country with the money they spend on a wide range of goods and
services, including food, souvenirs, accommodation and travel. The governments and
inhabitants of every country should be happy to subsidies important tourist sites and
encourage people from the rest of the world to visit them.
If travelers realized that they would have to pay more to visit historical and cultural
attractions in a particular nation, they would perhaps decide not to go to that country
on holiday. To take the UK as an example, the tourism industry and many related jobs
rely on visitors coming to the country to see places like Windsor Castle or Saint Paul’s

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Cathedral. These two sites charge the same price regardless of nationality, and this
helps to promote the nation’s cultural heritage. If overseas tourists stopped coming due
to higher prices, there would be a risk of insufficient funding for the maintenance of
these important buildings.
In conclusion, I believe that every effort should be made to attract tourists from
overseas, and it would be counterproductive to make them pay more than local
residents. (269 words, band 9)

Some people think that governments should give financial support to creative artists
such as painters and musicians. Others believe that creative artists should be funded
by alternative sources. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about the funding of creative artists. While some people
disagree with the idea of government support for artists, I believe that money for art
projects should come from both governments and other sources.
Some art projects definitely require help from the state. In the UK, there are many
works of art in public spaces, such as streets or squares in city centres. In Liverpool, for
example, there are several new statues and sculptures in the docks area of the city,
which has been redeveloped recently. These artworks represent culture, heritage and
history. They serve to educate people about the city, and act as landmarks or talking
points for visitors and tourists. Governments and local councils should pay creative
artists to produce this kind of art, because without their funding our cities would be
much less interesting and attractive.
On the other hand, I can understand the arguments against government funding for art.
The main reason for this view is that governments have more important concerns. For
example, state budgets need to be spent on education, healthcare, infrastructure and
security, among other areas. These public services are vital for a country to function
properly, whereas the work of creative artists, even in public places, is a luxury. Another
reason for this opinion is that artists do a job like any other professional, and they
should therefore earn their own money by selling their work.

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In conclusion, there are good reasons why artists should rely on alternative sources of
financial support, but in my opinion government help is sometimes necessary.

Nowadays animal experiments are widely used to develop new medicines and to test
the safety of other products. Some people argue that these experiments should be
banned because it is morally wrong to cause animals to suffer, while others are in
favour of them because of their benefits to humanity.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
It is true that medicines and other products are routinely tested on animals before they
are cleared for human use. While I tend towards the viewpoint that animal testing is
morally wrong, I would have to support a limited amount of animal experimentation for
the development of medicines.
On the one hand, there are clear ethical arguments against animal experimentation. To
use a common example of this practice, laboratory mice may be given an illness so that
the effectiveness of a new drug can be measured. Opponents of such research argue
that humans have no right to subject animals to this kind of trauma, and that the lives of
all creatures should be respected. They believe that the benefits to humans do not
justify the suffering caused, and that scientists should use alternative methods of
research.
On the other hand, reliable alternatives to animal experimentation may not always be
available. Supporters of the use of animals in medical research believe that a certain
amount of suffering on the part of mice or rats can be justified if human lives are saved.
They argue that opponents of such research might feel differently if a member of their
own families needed a medical treatment that had been developed through the use of
animal experimentation. Personally, I agree with the banning of animal testing for non-
medical products, but I feel that it may be a necessary evil where new drugs and medical
procedures are concerned.
In conclusion, it seems to me that it would be wrong to ban testing on animals for vital
medical research until equally effective alternatives have been developed.
(270 words, band 9)

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In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this
cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to
reduce the impact of ageing populations.
It is true that people in industrialized nations can expect to live longer than ever before.
Although there will undoubtedly be some negative consequences of this trend, societies
can take steps to mitigate these potential problems.
As people live longer and the populations of developed countries grow older, several
related problems can be anticipated. The main issue is that there will obviously be more
people of retirement age who will be eligible to receive a pension. The proportion of
younger, working adults will be smaller, and governments will therefore receive less
money in taxes in relation to the size of the population. In other words, an ageing
population will mean a greater tax burden for working adults. Further pressures will
include a rise in the demand for healthcare, and the fact young adults will increasingly
have to look after their elderly relatives.
There are several actions that governments could take to solve the problems described
above. Firstly, a simple solution would be to increase the retirement age for working
adults, perhaps from 65 to 70. Nowadays, people of this age tend to be healthy enough
to continue a productive working life. A second measure would be for governments to
encourage immigration in order to increase the number of working adults who pay
taxes. Finally, money from national budgets will need to be taken from other areas and
spent on vital healthcare, accommodation and transport facilities for the rising numbers
of older citizens.
In conclusion, various measures can be taken to tackle the problems that are certain to
arise as the populations of countries grow older. (265 words, band 9)

Some people regard video games as harmless fun, or even as a useful educational tool.
Others, however, believe that videos games are having an adverse effect on the
people who play them. In your opinion, do the drawbacks of video games outweigh
the benefits?
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Many people, and children in particular, enjoy playing computer games. While I accept
that these games can sometimes have a positive effect on the user, I believe that they
are more likely to have a harmful impact.
On the one hand, video games can be both entertaining and educational. Users, or
gamers, are transported into virtual worlds which are often more exciting and engaging
than real-life pastimes. From an educational perspective, these games encourage
imagination and creativity, as well as concentration, logical thinking and problem
solving, all of which are useful skills outside the gaming context. Furthermore, it has
been shown that computer simulation games can improve users’ motor skills and help
to prepare them for real-world tasks, such as flying a plane.
However, I would argue that these benefits are outweighed by the drawbacks. Gaming
can be highly addictive because users are constantly given scores, new targets and
frequent rewards to keep them playing. Many children now spend hours each day trying
to progress through the levels of a game or to get a higher score than their friends. This
type of addiction can have effects ranging from lack of sleep to problems at school,
when homework is sacrificed for a few more hours on the computer or console. The rise
in obesity in recent years has also been linked in part to the sedentary lifestyle and lack
of exercise that often accompany gaming addiction.
In conclusion, it seems to me that the potential dangers of video games are more
significant than the possible benefits. (258 words, band 9)

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?
It is true that a rich variety of musical styles can be found around the world. Music is a
vital part of all human cultures for a range of reasons, and I would argue that traditional
music is more important than modern, international music.
Music is something that accompanies all of us throughout our lives. As children, we are
taught songs by our parents and teachers as a means of learning language, or simply as
a form of enjoyment. Children delight in singing with others, and it would appear that

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the act of singing in a group creates a connection between participants, regardless of
their age. Later in life, people’s musical preferences develop, and we come to see our
favourite songs as part of our life stories. Music both expresses and arouses emotions in
a way that words alone cannot. In short, it is difficult to imagine life without it.
In my opinion, traditional music should be valued over the international music that has
become so popular. International pop music is often catchy and fun, but it is essentially
a commercial product that is marketed and sold by business people. Traditional music,
by contrast, expresses the culture, customs and history of a country. Traditional styles,
such as ...(example)..., connect us to the past and form part of our cultural identity. It
would be a real pity if pop music became so predominant that these national styles
disappeared.
In conclusion, music is a necessary part of human existence, and I believe that
traditional music should be given more importance than international music.
(261 words, band 9)

Explain some of the ways in which humans are damaging the environment. What can
governments do to address these problems? What can individual people do?
Humans are responsible for a variety of environmental problems, but we can also take
steps to reduce the damage that we are causing to the planet. This essay will discuss
environmental problems and the measures that governments and individuals can take
to address these problems.
Two of the biggest threats to the environment are air pollution and waste. Gas
emissions from factories and exhaust fumes from vehicles lead to global warming, which
may have a devastating effect on the planet in the future. As the human population
increases, we are also producing ever greater quantities of waste, which contaminates
the earth and pollutes rivers and oceans.
Governments could certainly make more effort to reduce air pollution. They could
introduce laws to limit emissions from factories or to force companies to use renewable
energy from solar, wind or water power. They could also impose ‘green taxes’ on drivers

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and airline companies. In this way, people would be encouraged to use public transport
and to take fewer flights abroad, therefore reducing emissions.
Individuals should also take responsibility for the impact they have on the environment.
They can take public transport rather than driving, choose products with less packaging,
and recycle as much as possible. Most supermarkets now provide reusable bags for
shoppers as well as ‘banks’ for recycling glass, plastic and paper in their car parks. By
reusing and recycling, we can help to reduce waste.
In conclusion, both national governments and individuals must play their part in looking
after the environment.

Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a
successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after
school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
When they finish school, teenagers face the dilemma of whether to get a job or
continue their education. While there are some benefits to getting a job straight after
school, I would argue that it is better to go to college or university.
The option to start work straight after school is attractive for several reasons. Many
young people want to start earning money as soon as possible. In this way, they can
become independent, and they will be able to afford their own house or start a family.
In terms of their career, young people who decide to find work, rather than continue
their studies, may progress more quickly. They will have the chance to gain real
experience and learn practical skills related to their chosen profession. This may lead to
promotions and a successful career.
On the other hand, I believe that it is more beneficial for students to continue their
studies. Firstly, academic qualifications are required in many professions. For example, it
is impossible to become a doctor, teacher or lawyer without having the relevant degree.
As a result, university graduates have access to more and better job opportunities, and
they tend to earn higher salaries than those with fewer qualifications. Secondly, the job
market is becoming increasingly competitive, and sometimes there are hundreds of

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applicants for one position in a company. Young people who do not have qualifications
from a university or college will not be able to compete.
For the reasons mentioned above, it seems to me that students are more likely to be
successful in their careers if they continue their studies beyond school level.
(271 words, band 9)

Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are spoken by very small
numbers of people. Some people say that governments should spend public money on
saving these languages, while others believe that would be a waste of money.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.
It is true that some minority languages may disappear in the near future. Although it can
be argued that governments could save money by allowing this to happen, I believe that
these languages should be protected and preserved.
There are several reasons why saving minority languages could be seen as a waste of
money. Firstly, if a language is only spoken by a small number of people, expensive
education programs will be needed to make sure that more people learn it, and the
state will have to pay for facilities, teachers and marketing. This money might be better
spent on other public services. Secondly, it would be much cheaper and more efficient
for countries to have just one language. Governments could cut all kinds of costs related
to communicating with each minority group.
Despite the above arguments, I believe that governments should try to preserve
languages that are less widely spoken. A language is much more than simply a means of
communication; it has a vital connection with the cultural identity of the people who
speak it. If a language disappears, a whole way of life will disappear with it, and we will
lose the rich cultural diversity that makes societies more interesting. By spending money
to protect minority languages, governments can also preserve traditions, customs and
behaviours that are part of a country’s history.

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In conclusion, it may save money in the short term if we allow minority languages to
disappear, but in the long term this would have an extremely negative impact on our
cultural heritage. (258 words)

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between equality
and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in
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?
In my opinion, an egalitarian society is one in which everyone has the same rights and
the same opportunities. I completely agree that people can achieve more in this kind of
society.
Education is an important factor with regard to personal success in life. I believe that all
children should have access to free schooling, and higher education should be either
free or affordable for all those who chose to pursue a university degree. In a society
without free schooling or affordable higher education, only children and young adults
from wealthier families would have access to the best learning opportunities, and they
would therefore be better prepared for the job market. This kind of inequality would
ensure the success of some but harm the prospects of others.
I would argue that equal rights and opportunities are not in conflict with people’s
freedom to succeed or fail. In other words, equality does not mean that people lose
their motivation to succeed, or that they are not allowed to fail. On the contrary, I
believe that most people would feel more motivated to work hard and reach their
potential if they thought that they lived in a fair society. Those who did not make the
same effort would know that they had wasted their opportunity. Inequality, on the
other hand, would be more likely to demotivate people because they would know that
the odds of success were stacked in favour of those from privileged backgrounds.
In conclusion, it seems to me that there is a positive relationship between equality and
personal success. (260 words)

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Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in every
subject. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In my opinion, men and women should have the same educational opportunities.
However, I do not agree with the idea of accepting equal proportions of each gender in
every university subject.
Having the same number of men and women on all degree courses is simply unrealistic.
Student numbers on any course depend on the applications that the institution receives.
If a university decided to fill courses with equal numbers of males and females, it would
need enough applicants of each gender. In reality, many courses are more popular with
one gender than the other, and it would not be practical to aim for equal proportions.
For example, nursing courses tend to attract more female applicants, and it would be
difficult to fill these courses if fifty per cent of the places needed to go to males.
Apart from the practical concerns expressed above, I also believe that it would be unfair
to base admission to university courses on gender. Universities should continue to
select the best candidates for each course according to their qualifications. In this way,
both men and women have the same opportunities, and applicants know that they will
be successful if they work hard to achieve good grades at school. If a female student is
the best candidate for a place on a course, it is surely wrong to reject her in favour of a
male student with lower grades or fewer qualifications.
In conclusion, the selection of university students should be based on merit, and it
would be both impractical and unfair to change to a selection procedure based on
gender. (265 words, band 9)

Some people think that museums should be enjoyable places to entertain people,
while others believe that the purpose of museums is to educate.
Discuss both views and give you own opinion.
People have different views about the role and function of museums. In my opinion,
museums can and should be both entertaining and educational.

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On the one hand, it can be argued that the main role of a museum is to entertain.
Museums are tourist attractions, and their aim is to exhibit a collection of interesting
objects that many people will want to see. The average visitor may become bored if he
or she has to read or listen to too much educational content, so museums often put
more of an emphasis on enjoyment rather than learning. This type of museum is
designed to be visually spectacular, and may have interactive activities or even games as
part of its exhibitions.
On the other hand, some people argue that museums should focus on education. The
aim of any exhibition should be to teach visitors something that they did not previously
know. Usually this means that the history behind the museum’s exhibits needs to be
explained, and this can be done in various ways. Some museums employ professional
guides to talk to their visitors, while other museums offer headsets so that visitors can
listen to detailed commentary about the exhibition. In this way, museums can play an
important role in teaching people about history, culture, science and many other
aspects of life.
In conclusion, it seems to me that a good museum should be able to offer an interesting,
enjoyable and educational experience so that people can have fun and learn something
at the same time. (253 words, band 9)

Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of
technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that people
make? Has this been a positive or negative development?
It is true that new technologies have had an influence on communication between
people. Technology has affected relationships in various ways, and in my opinion there
are both positive and negative effects.
Technology has had an impact on relationships in business, education and social
life. Firstly, telephones and the Internet allow business people in different countries to
interact without ever meeting each other. Secondly, services like Skype create new
possibilities for relationships between students and teachers. For example, a student

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can now take video lessons with a teacher in a different city or country. Finally, many
people use social networks, like Facebook, to make new friends and find people who
share common interests, and they interact through their computers rather than face to
face.
On the one hand, these developments can be extremely positive. Cooperation between
people in different countries was much more difficult when communication was limited
to written letters or telegrams. Nowadays, interactions by email, phone or video are
almost as good as face-to-face meetings, and many of us benefit from these
interactions, either in work or social contexts. On the other hand, the availability of new
communication technologies can also have the result of isolating people and
discouraging real interaction. For example, many young people choose to make friends
online rather than mixing with their peers in the real world, and these ‘virtual’
relationships are a poor substitute for real friendships.
In conclusion, technology has certainly revolutionized communication between people,
but not all of the outcomes of this revolution have been positive.
(257 words, band 9)

We cannot help everyone in the world that needs help, so we should only be concerned
with our own communities and countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Some people believe that we should not help people in other countries as long as there
are problems in our own society. I disagree with this view because I believe that we
should try to help as many people as possible.
On the one hand, I accept that it is important to help our neighbors and fellow citizens.
In most communities there are people who are impoverished or disadvantaged in some
way. It is possible to find homeless people, for example, in even the wealthiest of cities,
and for those who are concerned about this problem, there are usually opportunities to
volunteer time or give money to support these people. In the UK, people can help in a
variety of ways, from donating clothing to serving free food in a soup kitchen. As the

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problems are on our doorstep, and there are obvious ways to help, I can understand
why some people feel that we should prioritize local charity.
At the same time, I believe that we have an obligation to help those who live beyond
our national borders. In some countries the problems that people face are much more
serious than those in our own communities, and it is often even easier to help. For
example, when children are dying from curable diseases in African countries,
governments and individuals in richer countries can save lives simply by paying for
vaccines that already exist. A small donation to an international charity might have a
much greater impact than helping in our local area.
In conclusion, it is true that we cannot help everyone, but in my opinion national
boundaries should not stop us from helping those who are in need. (280 words)

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