IELTS on Track, Test Practice, General Training.pdf

IELTS on Trac ack k TEST PRACTICE General Gen eral Training raini ng • Stephen Slater • Donna D onna Millen • Pat Tyrie

G N I T I R W k o o b e

Centre for English Language in the University of South Australia

Originally published by Language Australia Ltd. in association association with The Centre for English Language in the University of South Australia Centre for English Language in the University of South Australia, City East East Campus, Campus, GPO Box 2471 Adelaide, Adelaide, South Australia 5001. www.unisa.sa.edu.au/celusa

Copyright © Slater Slater,, Millen Millen

e-Book version 2008

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system or transmitted in any any form or by any any means, electronic mechanical, taping, photocopying, recording, web distribution, or otherwise, without the written permission of the copyright holders.

Originally printed by Hyde Park Press, 4 Deacon Avenue, Avenue, Richmond, Richmond, South Australia Australia 5033

IELTS on Track

GENERAL TRAINING WRITING e-BOOK

II

Copyright Copyright © Slater, Slater, Millen

THANKS & ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS

The authors and publisher would like to thank all the teachers and international students based in Australia, UK, Ukraine, and Japan for the valuable feedback during the trialling of these materials, particularly Hyun Suk Kang, Anthony Hemmens, Deborah Newstead, Shaun Tiddy, Jacquie Moller, Cynthia Mchawala, and Dilwyn Jaye. Thanks also go to Steve Martin for design assistance and technical support throughout the project. The authors are grateful to CELUSA and Language Australia for their support of this project. While the authors have made every effort to contact copyright holders, it has not been possible to identify the sources of all the material used. The authors and publisher would in such instances welcome information from copyright holders to rectify any errors or omissions.

IELTS on Track


III


CONTENTS

INTRODUCTION WRITING UNIT The IELTS Writing Test Examiners’ Suggestions Fast Track Writing More about Task 1 More about Task 2 Instructions for Test Practice Writing Test 1 Task 1 Task 2 Writing Test 2 Task 1 Task 2 Writing Test 3 Task 1 Task 2 Writing Test 4 Task 1 Task 2 Writing Test 5 Task 1 Task 2 Writing Test 6 Task 1 Task 2

2 3 5 6 9 10 14 18 22 26 30 34 38 42 46 50 54

IELTS PRACTICE TESTS

6

COMPLETE WRITING TESTS

IELTS on Track

The Writing Test Task 2 prompts are usually short and clear. The aim has been to enable users of this book to focus on their their own writing needs.


IV


INTRODUCTION

WELCOME to IELTS on Track! This test practice and preparation book has complete IELTS practice

Writing tests and Fast Track strategy and activity sections. It has been written for candidates who are preparing for the IELTS Test (General Training) in order to enter a vocational program or school, or for immigration purposes. IELTS on Track is not an official IELTS publication and, like most other practice and preparation books, is not endorsed officially by IELTS. IELTS. The IELTS on Track series has its own website – www.IELTSonTrack.com which has other helpful test preparation materials.

WHAT IS THE IELTS TEST? IELTS (International English Language Testing System) is a widely used and recognised international Test of English administered by Cambridge ESOL, formerly the University of Cambridge Local Examinations Examinations Syndicate (UCLES), (UCLES), the the British Council, Council, and IDP Education Education Australia. Australia. There There are are two versions: Academic (for students wishing to study in an English-speaking university or college) and General Training (for entry to vocational programs, schools or for immigration). IELTS tests four performance areas: Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking. All candidates receive a test score between 1 (lowest) and 9 (highest). Academic institutions set their own IELTS IELTS entry scores. scores.

The IELTS test is taken in this sequence: Listening

40 questions — 30 minutes (+ 10 minutes to transfer answers)

Gene Genera rall Tra Train inin ing g Rea Readin ding g General Training Writing Speaking

40 que questi stion onss based based on tex texts ts in thr three ee sect section ionss — 60 60 minu minute tess 2 writing tasks — 60 minutes a standardised interview in 3 parts lasting 11-14 minutes

The current current IELTS IELTS material for test test applicants, applicants, which is available at all test centres centres worldwide worldwide gives further information about the test. The official IELTS website: www.ielts.org also gives up-to-date information and test data.

IELTS on Track


V


SECTION

WRITING The first part of this section explores the requirements of the IELTS General Training Writing Test and targets problem areas with hints for improvement. Each of the twelve Writing Tasks has planning assistance plus a Sample Answer, which generate language building activities. ‘Notes’ following the answers provide additional discourse pointers. Our belief is that IELTS candidates will become better attuned to the type of writing required for the test if they work analytically and interactively with whole sample answers. This is consistent with an inductive approach.

HOW TO USE THIS BOOK Of course, if you are working alone you will choose how best to use the book, but we would remind you of two principles that we hope may influence you.

Learn by reviewing reviewing perform performance ance Our approach is based on an inductive view of learning. This means that we believe that it is better to learn by doing an IELTS test and then reviewing the strengths and weaknesses of your performance. Repeating the test helps to reinforce corrections and build confidence and speed. Your progress will be more efficient working this way than just doing one test after another. ‘Use it or lose it’ Again, we strongly encourage you to try the same test several times to make sure you can build on what you have learnt about your performance, monitor and then demonstrate improvement. This is why wh y we say ‘Use ‘Use it it or lose lose it’. GOOD LUCK!

IELTS on Track


VI


WRITING UNIT WHAT’S AHEAD… IN THE WRITING UNIT

• The IELTS IELTS Writing Writing Test Test • What is is the examiner examiner looking looking for? • Exami Examiner ners’ s’ Suggesti Suggestions ons • Fast Track Writing • More More about about Task Task 1 • More More about about Task Task 2

• Instruction Instructionss for Test Test Practic Practicee • Writing Tests 1-6 Activities and Sample Answer for each writing task

IELTS on Track


1


THE IELTS WRITING TEST Each Writing Test consists of two tasks to be completed in 1 hour.

TA SK 1 Write a letter in response to a given problem or situation. Time: 20 minutes Length: 150 words minimum What skill skillss are needed? needed? • identify identify and communica communicate te the the main purpose purpose for for writin writing g the the letter letter • deal with all three three listed aspects aspects of the the situation situation or or probl problem em effectively, using clear paragraphs • write clearly clearly and and accur accurately ately in the the appropriate appropriate register register,, style and tone

WHAT IS THE EXAMINER LOOKING LOOKING FOR? FOR? Assessment Criteria

In other words…

Task Achievement

Have you tackled all three elements of the letter using an appropriate and consistent style and tone?

Coherence/Cohesion

Have you built and organised your letter so that its purpose purpose is clear clear,, the contents contents are are easy to track and the layout includes appropriate paragraphs? Is your information connected effectively from sentence to sentence?

Lexical Resource

Is your your vocabulary vocabulary appropriate, appropriate, varied varied and accurate?

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Are your sentenc sentences es grammatic grammatically ally accurate, accurate, with a variety of complex as well as simple sentences?

IELTS on Track


2


TA SK 2 Write an essay in response to a point of view, argument or problem. Time: 40 minutes Length: 250 words minimum What skills are needed? • read read and and unde unders rstan tand d the the essay essay questi question on • generat generatee ideas ideas and a viewpoin viewpoint, t, or or appropr appropriate iate respons responsee • to the topic and task • organ organise ise your your ideas ideas into into par parag agrap raphs hs • write write clear clearly ly and and accur accurate ately ly in an appr appropr opriat iatee style style

WHAT IS THE EXAMINER LOOKING LOOKING FOR? FOR? Assessment Criteria

In other words…

Task Response

Is your response or viewpoint developed clearly and appropriate appropriately ly with enough relevan relevantt ideas and supporting examples?

Coherence/Cohesion

Have you built and organised your paragraphs into a short essay so that overall overall meaning meaning is easy to track? Are your ideas ideas connected effectively between paragraphs and from sentence to sentence?

Lexical Resource

Is your your vocabulary vocabulary appropriate, appropriate, varied varied and accurate?

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

Are your your sentences grammatically accurate, with a variety of complex as well as simple sentences?

IELTS on Track


3


EXAMINE EXAMI NERS RS’’ SU SUGG GGESTI ESTION ONS S Here’s what IELTS examiners have to say about some of the most common problems they see in Writing Tests, along with suggestions for improvement.

Problems

Suggestions

Timing Task 2 answers unfinished if too much time is spent on Task 1.

Stop working on Task 1 after 20 minutes. Task 2 is worth more marks, so give yourself the full 40 minutes to complete your Task 2 answer.

Too short If you write less than the minimum number of words for either task, you will lose marks.

Practise regularly. Once you learn the essay patterns you will be able to write the required number of words without wasting time counting.

Keep going back to the task statement while Off topic An essay or letter letter that doesn’t doesn’t address address the planning and writing to make sure you relate topic will lose marks, even if it is well written. your response to the task as it is written. Repetition This is usually a problem of planning. Think of Saying the same thing in slightly different different as many ideas as you can before you start to for each paragraph paragraph and ways shows you don’t have enough ideas. write. Decide on a topic for which examples to include.

Check back to the wording of the task. Is the idea/ Irrelevant Irrelevant information Filling Filling out an essay or letter letter with informatio information n example relevant to the topic? Does it answer the question as given given?? If not, not, leave leave it out. unrelated to the question won’t get marks. question Mixed up Some essays have too many ideas and too little organization. They are difficult to follow. follow.

Stick to one main idea per paragraph, stated clearly clearly in the the topic topic sentenc sentence. e. Use the the rest rest of of the paragraph to develop develop and and support that idea with examples.

Unreadable It is impossible to give a good mark, if the writing is illegible.

Be kind kind to the the examin examiner: er: • draw draw a line line unde underr you yourr plan plan to to sep separ arat atee it from the answer answer.. • leav leavee spa space ce betw betwee een n para paragr grap aphs hs.. • cros crosss out out wor words ds neatl eatly y. • write legibly!

IELTS on Track


4


WRITING More about Task 1 … and how to do it Task 1 involves writing a letter in response to a given situation or problem. It may involve giving information, an explanation, a request, a description, or similar reasons for writing. The letter may be to a stranger, a friend, or an organization. There are usually three listed aspects of the problem that your letter is required to include.

Think First Analyse the Task

Ask questions

This means… Read the task and decide on the main purpose of the letter. Establish the relationship between you and the person who will receive your letter. letter. Do you know know that person well? Make a plan which shows your ideas for content and the planned paragraph structure for including all three aspects listed in the task. Decide the order, and balance of importance of the three aspects. Does my writing style need to be formal, semi-formal or personal? Is the tone required friendly, neutral, businesslike, enthusiastic? What kind of language language will will I need? need? For example: example: main tenses? appropriate vocabulary? Will I need to use modals (such as can, might ) to soften the language, language, to to ensure politeness, politeness, or to indicate indicate something something is not definite? How can I make a good, good, clear start to my my letter? How can I write a variety of simple and complex sentences and connect them smoothly without too much repetition? How can I signal and move smoothly from paragraph to paragraph? How can I finish off the letter in an appropriate way?

Then write the letter Introduction

Main points

Ending

Remember Remember that you do not need need to include include any any addresses addresses.. Explain your purpose in writing if it is a formal letter; perhaps offer a friendly greeting or remark first, if writing to a friend. Use your plan to to develop clearly clearly the three aspects listed in the task. Be sure to use clear paragraphs, and topic sentences, if appropriate. Remember the main overall purpose of your letter at all times. Monitor your vocabulary choices for appropriacy, and over-use. Avoid too much repetition; write fluently to help the reader. Try to end politely and in a style/tone appropriate to the rest of the letter eg ‘I hope you will reply to this letter at your earliest convenience ’ (more really looking looking forwar forwardd to (more formal) formal) ; ‘I’m really hearing from you soon’ (more personal). ‘Yours faithfully faithfully / sincerely’ sincerely’ (formal); ‘Best wishes’ , Choose an appropriate exit expression, eg ‘Yours ‘All ‘All the the best’ best’ (personal) Use your first name for friends, full name for strangers.

To build your letter-writing letter-writing skills it is a good idea to work through all six of the Task 1s before starting the Task 2s.

IELTS on Track


5


More about Task 2 … and how to do it Task 2 essays require you to explore issues by comparing, evaluating or challenging ideas. You may be asked to present a point of view or offer a solution to a problem. This means demonstrating your understanding of the topic by including examples from your own experience. You should think of your audience as a non-specialist, educated reader. Some essay types are outlined below, but you may not meet all of them in General Training Task 2.

Step 1 Analyse the task •

Become fam famiiliar wi with some ma main essay types and how to respond to them.

•

Read an and hi highlight/underlin line key words related to (1) the topic and (2) the task.

•

If nec neces essa sary ry,, exp explai lain n key key term termss in your your int intro rodu duct ctio ion. n.

Essay Types

Task words

This means…

Problem/solution

What can be done to solve...? How can this this problem problem be be addressed? What challenges...? What strategies...?

Explain Explain 2 or 3 aspect aspectss of the issue. issue. (1 paragraph each) Suggest solutions. Make recommendations.

Agree or disagree

Do you you agree agree or disagr disagree? ee? Explain Explain your your positio position. n. Justify Justify your your opinion opinion.. Write in support of one of these these view views. s.

Take a position. Defen Defendd it stron strongly gly.. Give Give seve severa rall reasons to support your position. (1 paragraph each) It is useful to acknowledge the opposite view (counter argument) and say why you don’t accept it.

Discuss Two sides of an argument Discuss Compare/contrast Advan Advantag tages/d es/disad isadvan vantage tagess

Give Give a balanced balanced presenta presentation. tion. This means you should write equally abou aboutt both both sid sides es of of the the issu issuee. In the conclusi conclusion on you can indicate indicate your position.

Explain a problem or situation

What are the reasons for...? Why...?

Give reasons or explanations cautiously and support them.

Evaluate an issue or problem

To what extent...? How importa important/ nt/serio serious.. us...? .? What do you think?

You will probably probably take a position position which is neither in total agreement (100%) nor total disagreement (0%), but somewhere in between. Explain why.

IELTS on Track


6


Step 2 Generate ideas

Brainstorm: Using Spider Diagrams • • • •

Write Write key topic topic word(s) word(s) in in the cent centre re of of a circle circle.. Note down down any any related related ideas ideas or examples examples that come come to to mind. mind. Do the the same for other other importan importantt words words from from the the Task. Task. Group Group the ideas to becom becomee your your paragr paragraph aph topics topics..

Idea Idea

Key Words

Example Example

Idea

Or Using Questions • Start Start with with key key topi topicc word word(s (s). ). • Think about about the the Task Task and and ask rele relevan vantt question questions. s. • Group Group the answer answerss to becom becomee your your paragrap paragraph h topics. topics.

What evidence? Key Words

advantages / disadvantages?

What examples?

IELTS on Track


Who...? What...? Where...? When...? Why...?

7


Step 3 Plan your Essay

Introduction

(1 short paragraph)

General statement(s) about the topic followed by thesis statement (what you are going to write about or what position you intend to take on the question.)

Body

(3–4 paragraphs)

Begin each paragraph with a topic sentence (main idea) followed by examples/evidence examples/evidence for support.

Conclusion

(1 short paragraph)

Summarise, but don’t repeat, main ideas. Include recommendation recommendation if necessary or (re)-state your position, to bring essay to a clos closee.

Beginning Task 2 practice? • • •

A good good answ answer er is more more impo importa rtant nt than than a fast fast one, one, so don’ don’tt worr worry y about about time time at fir first. st. It is is mor moree impo import rtan antt to plan plan car caref eful ully ly and and wri write te a goo good d answ answer er.. The The more more you you pra pract ctis isee, the the fast faster er and and mor moree pro profic ficien ientt you you will will beco become me..

Remember! First plan WHAT you want to say: how how man many para paragr grap aphs hs what supporting evidence/ ideas to include what order to put them in Then focus on HOW to say it. As you write, think about: grammar vocabulary spelling punctuation

DON’T TRY TO DO BOTH AT ONCE

IELTS on Track


8


INSTRU INS TRUCTI CTIONS ONS FOR TEST TEST PRA PRACTI CTICE CE There are SIX Writing Practice Tests

6

Test section format Test papers are clearly marked in the next section. Note: There are 3 pages of activities including a sample answer for Task 1 and Task 2 of each Writing Test.

To practise under test conditions Total time allowed for each test (Task 1 plus Task 2): 60 minutes DO NOT use a dictionary.

How How to use use this this sectio section n Test practice focus Do a complete practice test (Task 1 and Task 2). Compare your essays with the Sample Answers. Use Plan your answer and Build your language skills to improve organisation, organisati on, grammar and vocabulary vocabular y. Re-write your essays if you have found ways to improve them.

Need Nee d more more help? help? Work through all Task 1s before beginning Task 2s. Use Plan your answer to get started. Do the activities activities in Build your language skills and Gapped Sample Answer/Editing Workout. Study the Sample Answer and Notes.

…THEN write your own answer. Sample Answers are a useful reference; however, try not to imitate them when you write your essays. Your own writing style will develop with practice.

IELTS on Track


9


T S E T E L P M S A WRITING

TE ST 1 TASK 1

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You arranged to visit a friend in England but an important event at home now means that you must change the dates of the visit. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter • explai explain n the the import important ant event event • apol apologi ogise se for for the sit situat uatio ion n • sugge suggest st a new new arr arran angem gemen entt Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear

.....................................

,

r

d IELTS on Track


10


Test 1

Plan Your Answer

Task 1

Step 1 Analyse the task Who will receive the letter? Relationship Style and tone

Organization Organizatio n or private individual Someone you… know well, …a little or …don’t know Formal or Personal Friendly or Neutral

Step 2 Generate ideas Explain the important event Apologise Suggest alternatives

tennis competition / great honour to play and give justification for cancellation (need to practise) can take time off later / can use same airline ticket

Step 3 Think it through Language needed?

Verb tenses Use of modals Checking possibility How to start? How to finish?

for apologising / explaining / suggesting new arrangements present / past / present perfect / future Can / Could you…? / Would it be possible…? Is it possible for you to….. ? (informal) How are you? Best wishes, / All the best,

Remember to indicate the need for a response (I’m looking forward to hearing from you)

GAP focus — VERB FORMS

GAPPED SAMPLE ANSWER

Using verb forms, complete this sample answer then look at the full sample answer over the page. Dear Carla, How ................ things with you? I’m afraid something ................ come up here which ................ probably

................

................ ...... ........... ................ ..... to play tennis for my regional team in a national my visit to England. Last week I .......... tournament. It was completely unexpected. I’m sorry but this probably means that I ................ be able to visit you for the first week of April, as we ................ planned. I must stay here and practise until the tournament ................, later that month.

I wonder if it ................ possible for me to visit you later in the year. I can take some time off in early August and my air ticket can be ................ with no problem. Is August a possibility for you? Please ................ and ................ me know what your reaction ................. I’m sure you realise that it’s an honour to be selected to represent your region and so I ........... ................ ..... ........... ................ ..... to miss this great opportunity. I hope you ............ ................ .... ........... ................ .....

.

I’m ................ forward to hearing from you, Best wishes, Francoise

IELTS on Track


11


Build Your Language Skills

Test 1

Task 1

1 Synonyms Which word or expression in the sample answer could these replace?

Sample answer expression happened (paragraph 1)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

selected (1)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

totally (1)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

starts (1)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

get leave (2)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

an option (2)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

response (3)

....................................... ........................................................... ............................. .........

2 Prepositions What prepositions are used in these extracts from the sample answer? (Try to answer or guess before you look!) • How are things

.........................

you?

• I was chosen to play tennis • I wonder if it’s possible

.........................

• I can take some time off • Is August a possibility

.........................

me to visit you…

.........................

.........................

my regional team

early August

you?

3 Personalising Personalising a request, wish or explanation Match the feeling that the the writer uses to ‘soften’ and personalise the the communication with the appropriate explanation, wish or request from the sample answer.

Feeling I’m looking forward I’m afraid I hope I wonder I’m sorry

explanation, wish or request you’ll understand if it’s possible but this probably means that I won’t be able to visit you to hearing from you something has come up

Answers: 1 come up / chosen / completely / begins / take some time off / a possibility / reaction 2 with / for / for / in / for 3 ..forward to hearing from… from… / ..afraid ..af raid something has …. / ..hope you’ll understand understand / ..wonder if it’s…. / ..sorry but this probably means…

IELTS on Track


12


Sample Answer

Test 1

Task 1

Dear Car la,

me up her e o c s a h g n i h t e ra id som ’ m af r I ? u o y h t i w s w eek I w as g t s a L . d n a l g How ar e t hin n y v isit t o E m t c e f f f a y y l b a b a nat ional n i m a e w hich w ill pr o t l a n o i g is f or m y r e n n e t but t his y y a r r l r p o s o t m ’ n I . d e t chose c ly unexpe et e y l p m o c st w eek r s i f a e w h t t I . r t o f n e u o m y y a t our n ble t o v isit a e b t t ’ n o w I unt il t a e s h i t t c s a n r a p e d m n y y a l b e pr oba st st a y her u m I . d e n n a l p had of Apr il, as w e at mont h. h t r e t a l , s n i g e t b t he t our namen y ear . I can e h t n i r e t a l u y o e t o v isit y m r o f e l b i s s o p cket can be i t r i a y m I w onder if it is d n a ly August ar y e n i f f f o e y ou? m i t f or y e y t i l i b i s s o t ake som p a t m. Is Augus e l b o r p o n h t i w changed I’ m sur e y ou . s i n o i t c a e r r y ou ow w hat y n k e m r r egion u t e o l y y d t n n a e s e e t i r r r p w e r P lease select ed t o e b o t r u o n o h an hope y ou’ ll I . y t i n u t t r o p p o r ealise t hat it ’ ’s s t his gr eat s i m o t t n a w t t ’ and so I don under st and. ro m y ou, f r g n i r a e h o t d r wa I’ m looking f or w Best w ishes, Fr ancoise (174 words)

Notes • Notice that the tone of the letter is friendly but polite and gentle because the receiving friend may be disappointed and is also being asked to change her plans. • ‘as we had planne is used to indicate that the original arrangements were made before the planned’ d’ is news of being selected to play tennis for the region. • The order order of words words is important in the the expression expression ‘…let me know what your reaction is’. The The verb is placed at the end of the sentence, not in its more common position next to ‘what’. wishes’ is one of several options in a letter to a friend — ‘All the best’ is best’ is • Ending with ‘Best wishes’ is another. ‘Love,’ might ‘Love,’ might be used between really close friends. IELTS on Track


13



TEST 1 TASK 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

Children in many countries are eating more fast food and convenience snacks. Why are children doing this and how serious are the consequences? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS on Track


14


Test 1

Plan Your Answer

Task 2

Step 1 Analyse the task

Read carefully to understand understand all the details

What type of essay is it? What are the key words?

evaluate and explain a social issue children / eating more fast food / snacks / Why? / how serious / consequences


Ask questions (based mostly on the key words)

Why ar Why are ch child ildren eati eatin ng mo more fast food?

inc increasi easin ng num numbe berr of fa fast food ood out outllets pocket money; peer pressure image of eating fast food as ‘international’

What are parents doing?

too busy; late home from work; less discipline; pressure from children; international food has an attractive image

Some se serious co consequences

health pr problems; lo loss of of nu nutrition fr from traditional diet; money problems

Step 3 Structure the ideas Introduction Paragraph 1 Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Conclusion

1

task statement is true – there are more international fast food restaurants; essay will explain why children eat more fast food and assess consequences Why are children eating more fast food? Why don’t parents control their children’s diet? consequences are very serious fast fo food is a threat to to he healthy, tr traditional d diiets parents have to think hard and make wise choices for their children

Correct these paragraphs. The number of errors to find is indicated below. Check your corrections with the sample answer over the page.

T U O K R O W G N I T I D E T X E T

If you travel to almost any city of world you can see western-style fast food outlets serving burgers, pizzas, coffee, fried chicken, and sandwich. Children enjoy these food; however, they parents are not supervise them very carefully. This essay will try explain why and assess some of the consequences. Why are children eat more fast food? A key reason is the ever larger numbers of fast food restaurant. In addition, children at some countries has more pocket money to spend and seem to associate first food with international culture. Also, young people are affect by peer pressure; so, if fast food seen as ‘cool’, then eating help them to be accepted by other. Can you find and correct correct a total total of 16 errors? errors? Your sc score? 9 (Good) 7 (OK) 5 (Good Try) 3 (A wake up call!)

IELTS on Track


15


Build Your Language Skills 1

Test 1

Task 2

Use of …ing expressions expression s

Read the sample answer answer then write in the missing …ing words (Try not to look again!) • …you …you can see wester western-st n-style yle fast fast food food outlet outletss ............... ing burgers, pizzas, coffee, fried chicken, and sandwiches. • …pressur …pressuree from childr children en who who are fright frightened ened of of ............... ing different from classmates. • Fina Finall lly y, by by

...............

ing fast food regularly, children get used to

• Parents should think through the consequences of of

...............

...............

ing money…

ing their children eat fast food.

• Traditional diets may not be fashionable, but they are healthy and worth ............... ing.

2

Using modals (can/could/may/might) to show possibility

Modal forms forms like like ‘can’, ‘can’, ‘may’ ‘may’ , ‘might’ ‘might’ are used used effect effectivel ivelyy to indicate indicate that that someth something ing is possibl possiblee rather than definitely true. Put a suitable modal into these phrases from the sample answer. • Eating fast food frequently ............... cause obesity... • As adults, children

...............

experience health problems like diabetes.

• This (spending more money )

...............

create poor money management in adulthood.

• Traditional Traditional diets ............... not be fashionable...

3

Noun partners

It helps a writer to be economical economical if nouns can be grouped together together to communicate the maximum amount of information quickly. Match each noun on the left with a partner noun on the right. Check the sample answer for help.

Noun 1 peer pocket advertising health money eating

Partner Noun 2 management traditions problems pressure images money

Answers 1 serving / seeming / eating; spending spending / letting / protecting 2 can / might / could / may 3* peer pressure / pocket money / advertising images / health problems / money management / eating traditions (*Note, some other combinations are possible)

IELTS on Track


16


Sample Answer

Test 1

Task 2

f ast f ood e l y t s n r e t s e w e d y ou can se l r o w e h hildr en t C f . o s y e t h i c c i w y d n n a a t s s o d ly . ri ed chicken, an y ou tr av el to alm s, pizzas, cof f fe e, f r If y r ef ul y a c y r e v m e h t r g e n g i vi s vi ng bur not super v e r a s outlets ser v t n e r a p r i q uences. e e h s t n , o r c e v e e h w t o f h o ; d e o m o o jo y this f en jo nd assess s a y h w n i a l p x e o t mber s u n r e g r a l r e v T his essa y w ill tr y e e h y r eason is t e k A ? d o o f t s a av e mor e f h e r s o e i r m t n g n u i o t c a e e n m e o , childr en in s W h y ar e childr n o i t i d d er national a t n i n I . h s t i t w n a d r o u o a f t t s s e r associate f a is seen of f ast f ood o d t o o m f e t e s s a f d n f i a , o d s n spe ur e pocket mone y to people ar e af f fe cted b y peer pr ess her s. ot ng cultur e. Also, y ou g it helps them to be accepted b y in on’t contr ol d s t n as ‘cool’, then eat e r a p y h w k od, w e can as o f t s a or king har der f w t a e r e a o y h a w d n o e t r d s l i t h n ly , par e ossib y P . As it is of ten c e r o e y hav e to m h e t l , t r t e i l v o a e r s o t i M b . a t h e i g d f fe r ent’ f i their kids’ eatin t talk w ith their childr en about d ‘ g n i m e e s f o d n’ ri ghtene r e f r a o h w n str ong e r e and longer and do essur e f r d l s i u h r c e g m n o o r l o n s t pr ar en deal w ith a lot of dded to this, in some societies, p ising images w hich f ast A t ro m classmates. har d to r esist the pow er f fu l adv er f r d it discipline, and f in . se ly can re q uent y f ood companies u f r d o o f t s a f g n i t a ith too much us, how ev er . E o w i r , t e e s i d y y l l d a e e c r n e a r l a a b s T he conseq uence e childr en, and it ma y mean an un r ience health pr oblems om xpe cause obesit y in s t f ood. As adults, childr en might e get used to spending ee ly , childr en pr ocessed and sw b y eating f ast f ood r egular y adulthood. n i t n e , y y m l l e a g n a i n F a . s m e t y like diabe te poor mone a e r c d l u o c s i h T . y y eat f ast n e r d l i h c r i mone y too easil e h t g n i ences of lett u q e s n o l v alues c a r e u h t t l u h c g u o o t r t h t a e k r n h i t P ar ents should th q uestion of diet, ther e is also a ionable, but the y ar e just a be f ash t o n y a m s t f ood. It is not ju e i d l ra ditiona s. T r n o i t i d a r t g n i t a e and r otecting. p h t r o w d n a y h t l hea (307 words)

Notes explain...’ rather than • The introdu introduction ction ends ends with the the less less personal, personal, ‘This essay will try to explain...’ rather ‘I will try to explain…’ • As the essay is giving giving a range of points points in support of topic sentences sentences,, there is frequent frequent use of a variety of connecting expressions to signal additional points, for example, ‘Moreover’ , ‘Added to this’ , ‘In addition’ . ‘children’ by using synonyms • The writer writer tries to avoid avoid too much much repetition repetition of the the word word ‘children’ by (kids, young people, classmates). classmates) . • Each main paragraph paragraph has a single theme theme (often in the form of of a question requiring some some answers) which is developed after each topic sentence. IELTS on Track


17



TEST 2 TASK 1


You paid a refundable deposit when you rented an apartment. You left the apartment in good condition but the landlord won’t return your deposit. Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter • explain why why you you are writing • ask for the the return of your deposit • inform the landlord of possible legal action Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear

.....................................

,

r

d IELTS on Track


18


Test 2

Plan Your Answer

Task 1


Organization or private individual Someone you… know well, … a little or …don’t know Formal or Personal Personal Friendly or Neutral (firm, but polite)

Step 2 Generate ideas Explain reason for writing Ask for the return of your deposit Indicate possible legal action

you don’t understand reason why your deposit hasn’t been returned + emphasise emphasis e the good condition of the apartment (clean, no breakages) say that you kept to the terms of the agreement and so have no other alternative


Verb tenses Signal possible, future action Keeping firm but polite How to start? How to finish?

for explaining the situation from your point of view, requesting, indicating possible legal action present / past / future forms If you don’t…then I will… I respectfully… / I shall have no alternative but to… I’m writing to request… / I am unable to understand the reason… Yours sincerely, sincerely, (or ‘Yours faithfully,’ faithfully,’ for extra formality)


GAP focus — CONNECTING EXPRESSIONS

Using connecting expressions, complete this sample answer then look at the full sample answer over the page. Dear Mr. Garfield, I am writing to request the return of the $200 deposit ................ I paid to you ................ I rented No. 6A, Wayfield Terrace for the month of May. ................ I telephoned your office I was told ................ you are not intending to repay this money ................ I am unable to understand the reason for this. ................

I signed the rental agreement it was my understanding ................ the deposit would be returned

the apartment was vacated clean and undamaged. This was the condition of the flat ................ I returned the keys. I cleaned the whole apartment and there were no breakages and no damage to fittings or furniture. ................

I believe ................ I have kept to the terms of the agreement and ................ I respectfully request ................ my deposit be repaid in full. I shall have no alternative ................ to seek legal advice ................ we are unable to resolve this matter in a satisfactory manner. Yours sincerely, Alexei Ivanov

IELTS on Track


19


Build Your Language Skills 1

Test 2

Task 1

Topic vocabulary vocabular y

This letter is about renting an apartment. Which expressions in the letter are connected to that topic? Add expressions from the sample answer. answer.

2

Renting an apartment

deposit

Prepositions

What are the missing prepositions from the sample letter? • I am writing ............... request the return

...............

the $200 deposit...

• …before I rented No.6A Wayfield Terrace Terrace ............... the month

...............

May.

• This was the condition ............... the flat when I returned the keys. • There were no breakages and no damage ............... fittings or furniture. • …I respectfully request request that my my deposit be be repaid ............... full. • …if we are are unable to to resolve resolve this matter ............... a satisfactory manner.

3

‘If’ and ‘When’ sentences

‘If’ sentences are used here to say what might happen under certain conditions. Complete these sentences from the sample answer.

• …it was my understanding that the deposit ...............

• I

...............

be returned if the apartment

vacated clean and undamaged.

...............

have no alternative but to seek legal advice if we ............... unable to resolve

this matter... ‘When’ sentences are used here to establish the facts from the past. How many can you find in the sample answer? answer? Write them below:

•

...................................... .......................................................... ................................... ...............

•

...................................... .......................................................... ................................... ...............

•

...................................... .......................................................... ................................... ...............

Answ Answer ers: s: 1 deposit / rental agreement / apartment / vacated / returned the keys / terms of the agreement / fittings / repaid 2 to, of / for, of / of / to / in / in 3 would / was; shall / are; When I telephoned your office…. / When I signed the rental agreement….. / …when I returned the keys

IELTS on Track


20


Sample Answer

Test 2

Task 1

, Dear Mr . Gar f fi eld

id to y ou a p I t a h t t i s o p e the $200 d f o n r u t e r e h t t Ma y . W hen I s f e o u q h e t r n o o t m g e n i h t t i r r r I am w ra ce f o a y this d T er r l p e i e f f r y o a t W g , n i A d 6 n . e o t N n i t y ou ar e not bef or e I r ented a h t d l o t s a w I e f f fi c this. telephoned y our o ble to under stand the r eason f or na mone y and I am u the deposit t a h t g n i d n a t s r e t w as m y und i t n e m aged. T his e m e r a g d a n l u a d t n n a e r n e a h e l t as v acated c w W hen I signed t n e e w hole m h t t r a d p e a n a e e h l t c I f i . s d y e e itur e. tur ned the k n e r r w ould be r etur n u I f n r e o h s w g t n i a t l f t i f e h o n of t age t w as the conditio e w er e no br eakages and no dam her apar tment and t d ther ef or e I n a t n e m e e r g a e o alter nativ e e ter ms of th n h e t v o a t h l t l p a e h k s I e v . l a l h u e r epaid in f b t I believ e that I i s o p e d y m er in a t t a t h a t m t s s i e h u t q e e r v l y y o l l s u e r espectf e unable to r r a e w f i e c i v d a l but to seek lega r . ne satisf actor y man ly , Y our s sincer e y Alexei Iv anov

(161 words)

Notes • Note the use use of a variety of verb tenses tenses in this letter letter – past tense when when the writer writer is reporting events that happened before writing and present or present continuous tenses for the situation at the time of writing. • The tone tone of the letter is firm but polite even even in the third paragraph paragraph (I respectfully request…) faithfully,’ is a more formal alternative in a letter of this • Endin Ending g the lett letter er with with ‘Yours faithfully,’ is type. These days ‘Yours sincerely’ can sincerely’ can also be used in such a letter. IELTS on Track


21



TEST 2 TASK 2


Buying fashionable clothes is wasteful because people don’t need new clothes all the time. Clothing should be bought and used more wisely. Do you agree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS on Track


22


Test 2

Plan Your Answer Step 1 Analyse the task

Task 2

Read carefully carefully to understand understand all the details

What type of essay is it? Key words

agree or disagree fashionable clothes / wasteful / don’t need / should be bought / used wisely / …agree?



Why is is fashion wa wasteful?

it changes qu quickly, so so cl clothes ar are only worn fo for a sh short time then replaced / may not be recycled; a) young people are building identity – image conscious b) it is often elitist elitist (available (available only to to rich people) are are bette etterr / last ast long onger, but are are more ore stan standa darrdis dised (accessories can add variety) most frequently worn clothes are the most comfortable ones

Why is fashion powerful? Are Are clas classsic styl styles es pref prefer erab ablle? What about comfort?

Step 3 Structure the ideas Intr Introd odu uctio ction n Para aragrap graph h2 Paragrap graph h3 Con Conclu clusion sion

2

expr xpress ess you yourr poi point nt of vie view w, eit eith her agree greein ingg or or dis disaagree greein ingg wit with h the the vie view in the question, give some introductory introductory examples of problems with fashion argu arguee for bene benefi fitts of clas classi sicc styl styles es (+ exam exampl ples es); ); cont contrrast ast with with lure lure of fashion for young people mention elitism ism of of fa fashi shion versu ersuss ch cheape eaperr cl classi ssic sty stylles / uses ses of of accessories to add individuality favouri ouritte cl cloth othes are co comfor mforttabl able cl clothes thes;; rere-st stat atee eco econ nomi omic ben benef efiits of clothes that last a long time.


I agree with the fashion industry is wasteful. Every season, the major m ajor fashion houses generate popular styles and colours, and people buying clothes in order to look and feeling ‘up to date’. Every time we watching TV shows from the past we can tell how old they are because of clothes. Most people have too much clothes in their wardrobes, not because they need or wear all of them T U but often because they are clothes that are no longer fashionable and so are no longer wore. This O is wasteful especially if those clothes are not given away or recycle. K R O Of course there are classic style which are more durable – denim jeans, for example, are worn W by all age in all countries and still seem to feet fashionable. Certain shoe styles, sweaters and G coats are also timeless. Young people, however, are often search for their cents of self and likes N I to experiment with dress, or with new looks. They are vulnerable to exploitation by fashion and T I it is to this people that the industry direct much of it’s marketing. D E T Can you you find and correct a total total of 17 errors? X E Your sc score? 10 (Good) 8 (OK) 6 (Try harder) 4 (More work needed!) T

IELTS on Track


23



Test 2

Task 2

1 Comparative and superlative adjectives Complete this table of adjectives from the sample answer.

Adjective

Comparative

Superlative

fashionable

.........................................

most fashionable

.........................................

more durable

.........................................

.........................................

cheaper

.........................................

creative

...... ......... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ..... ..

...... ......... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ..... ..

expensive

...... ......... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ..... ..

...... ......... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ..... ..

.........................................

better

.........................................

...... ......... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ..... ..

2

...... ......... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ...... ..... ..

most comfortable

Extending sentences to achieve fluency of argument

Sometimes writers writers use connecting expressions expressions to extend a sentence rather rather than write several short sentences. This often helps fluency of argument. Write in the missing linking expressions in these sentences from the sample answer. • Most people have too many garments in their wardrobes, n...........

b........... they need or wear

all of them b........... often b........... they are clothes w........... are no longer fashionable and s........... are no longer worn. • There is a risk of standardisation standardisation w........... only limited choice and a small range of styles b........... individuals can be creative with accessories l........... scarves r........... expensive

...

t........... buying

clothing.

• Usually w........... you ask people about their favourite clothes, they mention n........... their most fashionable items b........... those t........... are the most comfortable, o........... those items t........... have become almost part of them.

3 Using synonymy synonymy to avoid repetition of ‘clothes’ Which alternative expressions does the writer use to avoid writing the word ‘clothes’ every time? Find 4 different synonyms in the sample answer. Synonym 1

.................

Synonym 2

.................

Synonym 3

.................

Synonym 4

.................

Answers 1 more fashionable; durable / most durable; cheap / cheapest; more creative / most creative; more expensive / most expensive; good / best; comfortable / more comfortable 2 not because; but; because; which; so / with; but; like; rather than / when; not; but; that; or; that 3 styles / items / garments / fashion wear

IELTS on Track


24


Sample Answer

Test 2

Task 2

r f ashion o jo j a m e h t , n o s a e tef ul. Ev er y s s a w or der to s i n i y r s t e s h u t d o l n i c n y o u i b h s e l a p f I agr ee that the pular st y les and colour s, and peo f r w e can t s a p e h t m o r s o p V show houses gener ate date’. Ev er y time w e w atch T V too man y e v a h e l p o o t e p p u ‘ t l s e o look and f e e clothes. M but of ten h t m f e o h t e s f u o l a l c a e r b a e e r w a tell how old the y r obes, not because the y need or and so ar e no longer ble ar d clothes in their w othes that ar e no longer f ashiona giv en aw a y or r ec y cled. cl ar e not s e h t o l c e s o because the y ar e ul especial y h t f ly i f e t s a w s i s i h T . w or n jeans, f or im je n e d – e l b a r u d e r hich ar e mo ionable. w h s s e a l f y l t e s e f c i o s t s a l m c e e r e ls Of cour se ther e a y all ages in all countr ies and stil ss. Y oung people, b ele example, ar e w or n , sw eater s and coats ar e also tim like to exper iment w ith les nd Cer tain shoe st y ear ching f or their sense of self a ion b y f ashion and it is ns tat how ev er , ar e of te oks. T he y ar e v ulner able to exploi ar keting. w lo sm dr ess, or w ith ne t the industr y dir ects much of it ha to these people t e can af f fo r d l p o e p y h t l a e w y y l ense that on s e h t r e of ten n i a , , t d s i n t a i l h e r o e s h l t a o s e i h st y les, on t Fashion w ear c i s s a l C sation w ith i . d s r e a h d t n o l a c t s r e f n o g i k s s i e . T her e is a r top q ualit y d e l p o e be cr eativ e p o n t a c e l s b l a a l i u a d v i v a i d e r n i o t m cheaper and e of st y les, bu g n a r l er al items l a m e m h s p a e , d e v n i a s n e e c i p o x h e ly limited c than bu y ing on y r e h t a r s e v v r a c s l i ke w ith accessor ies of clothing. tion not their n e m y e h t , s e h t o l items e eir f av our ite c s h t o h t t u r o o b , a e l e l b p a t o r e o p e most comf h t ly w hen y ou ask e r a t a Usual y h t e s o er to use h t t t e t b u b h c s u m m e t e i b e l s b u m. It w ould th most f ashiona e h t f o e classic l t b r a a r p u d t s e o r o m l m a e e c m u r w ool to pr od that hav e beco o n o t t o c e k i l s onomise. c e c e r o u t o s e l e r p l o e a r p u e t l a b n a scar ce asting and en l g n o l e r a h c i h w clothing st y les (308 words)

Notes • The writer expresses expresses the main opinion in the very first first topic sentence. sentence. This is direct and and creates a strong beginning. • The essay uses uses a wide range of of vocabulary of an advanced nature (eg elitist, ephemeral, standardisation, durable, vulnerable). This makes the essay seem more mature. • The essay expresses expresses its viewpoint viewpoint strongly but but lacks careful organisation organisation of ideas, so paragraph structure structure (eg topic sentences) is not well crafted. • A valid essay can be written disagreeing disagreeing with the topic statement statement but should should still focus on the issue of wastefulness. IELTS on Track


25



TEST 3 TASK 1


You saw an advertisement for a skiing course in Canada but you have one or two problems and can’t stay for the whole course. Write a letter to the course director. In your letter • explain your interest in the course • describe your problems • find out if a refund is possible Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir or Madam,

r

d IELTS on Track


26


Test 3

Plan Your Answer

Task 1


Organization or private individual Someone you… know well, …a little or … don’t know Formal or semi-formal Friendly or neutral (enthusiastic)

Step 2 Generate ideas explain interest problems refund possible?

always wanted to ski no skis / can’t buy skis / poor eyesight can’t stay for whole course / partial refund possible?

Step 3 Think it through for showing interest in a course, describing your problems, asking about hiring skis, asking about a refund mainly present simple / present perfect I’m very interes interested ted in / I’m looking looking forwar forwardd to... to... / I’m excite excited… d… I’m afraid that I can’t…because... can’t…be cause... Is it possible to… / I would like to know if it’s possible to… I’m writing in response to your advertisement in… Yours sincerely,

Language needed?

Verb tenses Showing interest Explaining your situation politely Checking Chec king possibil pos sibilities ities How to start? How to finish?

GAP focus — PREPOSITIONS


Using prepositions, complete this sample answer then look at the full sample answer over the page. Dear Sir or Madam, I’m writing ................ response to your advertisement in the Alberta Daily News ................ a skiing course. I have always wanted ................ ski so I’m very interested ................ joining joining the the cour course; se; how howev ever er,, I do not have my own skis and don’t wish ................ purchase skis at this time. Is it possible ................ me to hire skis and other equipment ................ the duration ................ the course? Also I have rather poor eyesight and have to wear special glasses all the time. Is your course suitable ................ someone like me? I’m afraid that I have to be back ................ Thailand ................ 31st January so I am unable to stay ................ the whole four weeks. I would like to know if it’s possible ................ receive a small refund if I have ................ leave one week before the end ................ the course. I’m looking forward very much

..............

hearing .............. you. I’m really excited about learning

Yours sincerely, Tassanee Sriporn

IELTS on Track


27


..............

ski.


Test 3

Task 1

1 Direct questions and indirect questions Sometimes writers writers ask sensitive questions indirectly: indirectly: DIRECT: ‘Is it possible for me to score IELTS IELTS 6? ’ Example: INDIRECT: ‘I would like to know if it’s possible for me to score IELTS 6’. Change the questions below from the sample answer.

Direct question • Is your course suitable for someone like me? ............................................................ ........................................ ............................. ......... • ........................................ • Is it possible possible for for me to to hire skis…? skis…?

Indirect question ....................................... ........................................................... ....................................... .............................. ...........

I would like to know if it’s possible to receive a refund. ...................................... .......................................................... ........................................ ............................... ...........

2 Synonyms – informal to formal In letters to organizations we often often use formal language; in letters to friends we use less formal language. language. Find the formal formal language in the sample answer for these these expressions. expressions.

Less Less for forma mall exp expre ress ssion ion ad. (paragraph 1) don’t fancy (2) buy (2) stuff (2) quite bad (2) can’t (3) get (3) a lot (4)

Form Formal al exp expre ress ssio ion n in the the sam sampl plee answ answer er ...................................... ........................................................ .................. ........................................ ........................................................ ................ ...................................... ........................................................ .................. ........................................ ........................................................ ................ ........................................ ........................................................ ................ ........................................ ........................................................ ................ ........................................ ........................................................ ................ ...................................... ........................................................ ..................

3 Prepositions Correct these prepositions. (Try to answer before looking at the sample answer!) I’m writing for response of your advertisement… I’m very interested to joining joining your course… Is it possible of me for hire skis… in the duration of the course? Is your course suitable to someone like me? I’m looking forward very much of hearing for you. I’m really excited about learning for ski. Answers 1 I would like to know if your course is…….. / Is it possible to receive a refund? / I would like to know if it’s possible for me to hire skis 2 advertisement / wish / purchase / equipment / rather poor / unable / receive / 3 in, to / in / for, to, for / for / to, from / to

IELTS on Track


28


Sample Answer

Test 3

Task 1

m, Dear Sir or Mada

ew s f or a N y y l i a D a t r e b l A ment in the e s i t r e v d a r u o y o t ri ting in r esponse I’m w r skiing cour se. e; how ev er , s r u o c e h t g n i n i o j nter ested in jo i y r e v e. Is it m m ’ i I t o s s i i h k t s t o a t s i d k e s t I hav e alw a y s w an n skis and don’t w ish to pur chase dur ation of the ow the I do not hav e m y ir e skis and other eq uipment f or ar special glasses all w e oh possible f or me t r ather poor e y esight and hav e to v e ? cour se? Also I ha ur se suitable f or someone like me co the time. Is y our nable to u m a I o s t s y r a u n d b y 31 Ja n a l i a h T n i k c a to r eceiv e a b e l e b i b s o s t o e p v s a ’ t h i I f i t a w h ra id t I’m af r uld like to kno o w I . s k e e w r u our se. o f c e e l h o t h f w o e d h n t e r e o f h t sta y w eek bef or e e n o e v a e l o t e v a r ef und if I h ed about t i c x e y y l l a e r m ’ I . u ro m y o ear ing f r h o t h c u m y r e v wa r d I’m looking f or w lear ning to ski. ly , Y our s sincer e y T assanee Sr ipor n

(156 words)

Notes • The purpose purpose in writing writing the the letter is made made clear clear in the first first sentence sentence.. • Sometimes letter letter writers mention the the date of a newspaper newspaper in which an advert appears (eg ‘…in the Alberta Daily News of June 2nd’) but this letter omits that detail. • ‘for the duration of…’ is of…’ is a useful expression when you want to talk about the whole period of time taken by something like a holiday or a course. to’ there is usually an ‘…ing’ expression • After ‘I’m looking forward to’ there (eg ‘hearing’, ‘receiving’). Many English learners forget this and write’ hear’ or ‘receive’. IELTS on Track


29



TEST 3 TASK 2


You are thinking of moving to a new country. Outline some of the factors and questions you must consider before you make a final decision. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS on Track


30


Test 3

Plan Your Answer

Task 2


Read carefully to understan understand d all the details


describing, analysing problems / factors moving / new country / Outline / factors / questions



Possible factors in / effects of migration: How ar are fa famil milies affec ffecte ted? d? What about education? And income / finances?

leaving fa family is is di difficult, es especially fo for el elderly re relatives; language problems, making new friends, stress going from high income to low income country or vice versa, example: Switzerland to Laos

Step 3 Structure the ideas Introduction Paragraph 2 (Topic: families) Paragraph 3 (Topic: education) Paragraph 4 (Topic: finance) Conclusion

3

express a general response to the idea of emigration, introduce discussion of issues discussion of of factors affecting fa families outline of educational issues discussion of of financial issues emphasise that positive attitude can help to overcome problems.



Other issue, of course, is education. Children who moves country are confronting by powerful challenges. They may have to master a new language, make new friend, feel like outsiders, at least from some of the time, and learn new paterns of behaviour. This can to cause stress unless there are sensitive support from parents, who themselves will dealing with adjustment issues in any new society. Money problem are also and important factor. Undertaking a new life in a different country with higher salaries and a higher standard of living might means a need to send money to home to help relative who struggling. Conversely, moving to country with lower incomes may mean adopt a much simple lifestyle. I have friends who move from university jobs in Switzerland to live in Laos and they had great difficulty, at first, adjusting too small incomes and a very different lifestyle. Can you find and correct a total of of 20 errors? Your score? 12 (Good) 10 (OK) 8 (Keep trying)

IELTS on Track


31

5 (Ask a teacher or friend!)



Test 3

Task 2

1 Listing factors In essays that ask for a discussion of different different factors, factors, each factor needs to be introduced. Find 3 different expressions expressions the writer of the sample answer answer uses to introduce each factor factor. 1 2 3

........................................ ......................................................... ................. ...................................... ......................................................... ................... ...................................... ......................................................... ...................

What do you notice about the position of those expressions in each paragraph?

2 Use of modals Modals help a writer to express information or opinion with an element of doubt Change these sentences by using modals (can, may, might). Use the sample answer. • This is difficult difficult for for elderly elderly parent parentss (paragr (paragraph aph 2) • They They have have to master master a new new langu languag agee (3) • This This cau cause sess str stres esss (3) (3) • Moving Moving to a country with lower lower incomes incomes means means adopting adopting a much much simpler lifestyle lifestyle (4) • …it is this this dream dream that that provide providess the motiv motivation ation… … (5)

3 Synonymous phrases The essay title includes the phrase ‘...moving to a new country’ It is important to use phrases that don’t repeat words words in the title. Find some phrases or expressions expressions that the sample answer answer uses instead of ‘moving to a new country’. If you find

2 phrases or expressions – good 3 phrases or expressions – very good 4 or more phrases or expressions – excellent!

Answers 1 One major question / Another issue is / ..are also an important factor / (position - Topic (first) sentence in each paragraph) 2 can be / may have to / can cause / may mean / can provide 3 to live in (NZ) / migrate / to seek a new life in a new country / move country / undertaking a new life in a different country / new life

IELTS on Track


32


Sample Answer

Test 3

Task 2

ly r ious y e s e r a e w d n a d n New Z ealan i e v i l o r , that t e v e e k i w l o h h c , u s e m u s y r s i e v y ly w ould T her e ar e man . M y f ami y e r e h about some t y y e l f t e a i r r g b i k l m a o t t l l ’ g I n . i e y y n can be mad o i thinking of appl s i c e d a e r o f e b er ed need to be consid y ly decides to i m a f e n o n of them. e h W . t on f amilies c e f f f e e ember s of h t m s e n v r a e e c l n o o t c e n v o a i t h jor q ues ly alw a y s ear y n One ma jo y e h t , nts w ho y e r r t a n p u y y o l c r e w d l e e n r a o f n i t ly dif f fi cul ular y c seek a new lif e i t r a p e b n a c s i ly behind. T h daughter . r their f ami y o n o s a f o t r o ly lose the supp ountr y ar e c sudden y e v o m o h w n e r d language, ucation. Chil d w e e n s i a , e r e s r t u s o a c m f o o , t e y ma y hav e h Another issue T . s e , and lear n g e n e l m i l t a h e c h l t u f f f r o e e w m o o p ro nted b y at least f or s conf r , s r e d i ensitiv e s s t s u i o e e r e k i l h l t e s e f s , e l s n d u r ien ause str ess make new f r c n a c ent issues in s i m h t T s . r u ju j u d o i a v h a t h i e w b g f n s w ill be deali e new patter ns o v l e s m e h t o h w , ro m par ents suppor t f r lif e in a w e n a g n an y new societ y . i k a t r e d nt f actor . Un a t r o p ng might i m i v i l n f a o o d s r l a a d e n r a a t s s r and a highe Mone y pr oblem s e i r a l a s r e h g i h e str uggling. r h a t i o w h y w r t s n e u v i o t c a l t e n r much help a dif f fe r e o t g e n i t m p o o h d y a e n n o a e m end a y m mean a need to s o a countr y w ith low er incomes m y jo r land to e z t i w S n i s b o j ly , mov ing t m univ er sit o r r f d e v o Conv er se y m o h justing to w d ju a s , d t n s e i r r r i f f t e v a a , h y I t l . u e c l simpler lif est y had gr eat dif f fi y e h t d n a k r o w a id st y le. e liv e in Laos doing f i l t n e r e f f f i d y r e d a v to hav e a s i g n i h t small incomes an y e k e h t estions but de the i u v q o r d p n a n a s r c o t t a c h a t f r eam the T her e ar e man y o m of a new lif e, since it is this dr gr ation. r ea mi str ong, positiv e d me all the inev itable pr oblems of r co motiv ation to ov e

(283 words)

Notes • The writer writer persona personalises lises the introduc introduction tion (‘We’). This is acceptable as the topic is a slightly more personal one. • The essay is well structured structured with with very clear clear paragraphing paragraphing of of ideas, as well as topic sentences which avoid repetition (question / issue / problems). • The use of of ...ing forms forms in paragraph paragraph 4 helps with the fluency fluency of expression expression of the the views expressed in that longer paragraph. • The example in paragraph 4 helps the essay to conform to the task instructions. IELTS on Track


33



TEST 4 TASK 1


You travelled by long distance bus recently and your suitcase was damaged. Write a letter to the bus company. In your letter • inform the bus company company of when and to where you travelled travelled • describe your suitcase and what happened to it • explain why the company should pay for a new suitcase Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter: Dear Sir or Madam,

r

d IELTS on Track


34


Test 4

Plan Your Answer

Task 1


Organization or private individual Someone you… know well, …a little or … don’t know Formal or Personal Friendly or Neutral

Step 2 Generate ideas travel information describe suitcase/damage suitcase/damage explain company’s liability

Denver to Houston / November this year soft, soft, black, black, with wheels wheels / wheel wheel broken broken off / handle handle cracked cracked bus company is liable for damage to personal property


Verb tenses Informing Describing suitcase Explaining liability Requesting refund How to start? How to finish?

informing bus company of journey details, describing suitcase and damage; explaining company’s liability / request refund mainly past tense / some present / present perfect / future On ……… I travelled from ....… to ….... on one of your... My ……… is a ….… one with a... The advice I have received…your company is liable for… I am requesting a refund… On ….… I travelled from .…… to ….… / I am writing wr iting in connection with… I trust you will respond appropriately .…… to.. / Yours faithfully,

GAP focus — NOUNS


Using nouns, complete this sample answer then look at the full sample answer over the page. Dear Madam or Sir, On 12th November this y................r, I travelled from Denver to Houston on one of your Intercity b................s. I am writing in c................n with damage caused to my s................e during that j................y. The case is black with a soft material c................r and wh................s. During the journey the suitcase must have moved in the l................ge com................nt under the bus because in Houston I discovered that one of the wheels had broken off and the h................le was cracked. The c................e is only 10 months old. The ad................e I have received indicates that your c................y is liable for d................ge to personal pro ................ y during a journey. Therefore I am requesting a full re................d in order to purchase a re................t case. The suitcase is beyond repair, according to the s................ from which it was bought. I have the original receipt as p................f of purchase. I trust you will respond appropriately and speedily to this l................r. Yours faithfully, Ignacio Perez

IELTS on Track


35



Test 4

Task 1

1 Writing economically In writing, we sometimes try to avoid writing too many words. Can you write these sentences in a shorter way? Use the sample answer and your own ideas to help you. • I am writing in connection with the the damage which was caused caused to my suitcase….. suitcase….. (save 3 words) words) words ) • The case is a black black one and it has a soft material cover… cover… (save (save 4 words) • The advice which I have received received indicates that your company company is liable for damage damage which words) is caused to personal property…. (save (save 4 words) • The suitcase is too too damaged to enable it to be repaired by anyone anyone satisfactorily (save 9 words!)

2 What’ hat’ss the the next next word? ord? Read the sample answer answer quickly, then without looking try to remember the word that came immediately after each of the words listed. • • • • • • • •

soft must have luggage 10 months liable for a full a replacement Yours

....................... ....................... ....................... ....................... ....................... ....................... .......................

(paragraph 2) (2) (2) (2) (3) (3) (3)

.......................

3 Verb tenses Often letters need to use a variety of verb forms. Find one example of each of these verb forms in the sample answer answer.. i) iii) v) vii)

Simple past Present simple Future Past perfect

......................................... ......................................... .........................................

ii) Present progressive iv) Present perfect vi) Past passive form

......................................... ......................................... .........................................

.........................................

Answers 1 I’m writing in connection with the damage to my suitcase / The case is black with a soft material cover / The advice I have received indicates that your company is liable for damage to personal property/ The suitcase is beyond repair 2 material / moved / compartment / old / damage / refund / case / faithfully 3 I travelled / I am writing / is / I have received / you will respond / was bought / had broken off

IELTS on Track


36


Sample Answer

Test 4

Task 1

ir , Dear Madam or S

y our e of y n o n o n o t s u o H o ro m Denv er t f r d e l l e v itcase a u r s t I y , m r a o e t y e s i g h a t m r h a n w ith the d o i t c On 12t Nov embe w r e n n o c n i g n i t am ri Inter cit y buses. I jour ne y . dur ing that jo ur ne y the o jo j e h t g n i r u D . s l ov er and w hee c l a i r e s because t u a b m e h t t f o r s e d a n h u t i t n w e T he case is black mov ed in the luggage compar tm en of f f and the handle v e r ok suitcase must ha r ed that one of the w heels had b ov e in Houston I disc se is on y months old. 0 1 y l a c w as cr acked. T he s liable f or i y n a p m o c r u o y dicates that n i d e v i e c e r e v T her ef or e I am a . h y I e e n r c i u v o jo j d a a l a g g n i e r l u T he l pr oper t y d ement case. a c n o a l s p r e e r p a o t e s d a e h s c u r damage ca or der to pu bought. n i s a u w o y t i m h o c i r r f h w d n m u f o r r r e o the shop f t g n i r eq uesting a f ull d r o c c a , r i a p e y ond r e T he suitcase is b ceipt as pr oof of pur chase. l r e I hav e the or igina is letter . h t o t y y l i d e e p s d ly an pr opr iate y p a d n o p s e r l l i w I tr ust y ou ly , Y our s f aithf ul y Ignacio P er ez

(157 words)

Notes • Sometimes it is appropriate appropriate to use ‘Dear Madam or Sir’ to Sir’ to show gender balance. • Choice of lexis lexis in formal letters makes the tone tone more business-like business-li ke (eg. ‘in connection with’ (not ‘about’), ‘indicates’ (not ‘says’), ‘requesting’ (not ‘asking for’), ‘purchase’ (not ‘trust’ (not ‘hope’). ‘buy’), ‘trust’ (not • The tone is firm but neutral; there is no expression of anger or emotion. IELTS on Track


37



TEST 4 TASK 2


It seems that many companies today are becoming much more concerned with profit than with the happiness of their workers. How could companies take better care of their workers in the future? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS on Track


38


Test 4

Plan Your Answer

Task 2




solving a problem companies / concern with profit / happiness / workers / better bette r care / future


Ask questions (mostly based on key words)

What What’s ’s happ happen enin ingg to to com compa pani nies es??

Can I gi give an another ex exampl mple? How to to mak makee wo worke rkers ha happi ppier? er?

manu manufa fact ctur urin ingg ind indus ustr trie iess mov movin ingg to to low low-c -cos ostt cou count ntri ries es salaries/conditions in richer countries not expanding rapidly. Why? universities; sh shorter wo work co contracts, no no pe pensions; affects loyalty buil uildin ding str stron ongger rela elatio tionshi ships with with worker rkerss

Step 3 Structure the ideas Intr Introd odu uctio tion Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4 Conclusion

4

take ake a posi posittion on the vie viewpoi point in the essa essayy ques questtion; on; say say wha what the the essay is going to achieve How are compan panies max maximising profit – in manufacturing / servic vice sectors? detailed example of universities How to make workers happier? building trust and loyalty implications if things don’t change for the better.


Globalised world trade is control by simple economical realities – making the biggest profits at the smaller expense. How is being achieved? During last twenty years many manufacturing companies in the USA and Europe have move their factories to economies like China, Mexico or Thailand which having lower labour costs. Service industries in T U wealthier country have be able to use low interest rates, weaker trade unions and rising O unemployment rates to keep wage and conditions for improving rapidly. K R O In education there are other example of business-style practices, and worsen conditions W for staff. Many university now employ academic staff on short contracts, contracts, releasing G themselves from making expansive pension provisions or other long-term benefit. N I Lecturer are force to re-apply for there own jobs every few year. A sense of loyalty is not T I promotion for such processes. D E T Can you find and correct a total of 21 errors? X What at’’s yo your sco score re?? 13 (Good) 11 (OK) 9 (Try a bit harder) 6 (Help needed?) E Wh T

IELTS on Track


39



Test 4

Task 2

1 Rhetorical questions Asking a rhetorical question is a common way of announcing the next next part of your discussion. Look at this example from the sample answer: answer:

Example: Globalised world trade is controlled controlled by simple economic economic realities – making making the the biggest profits at the smallest expense. How is this being achieved? Match the appropriate appropriate rhetorical question to these sentences sentences from the the sample answer. answer.

Sentence from sample answer 1) Many universities now employ academic staff on short contracts, releasing themselves from expensive pension provisions or other long-term benefits. (para 3) 2) In education there are other examples of ‘business-style’ practices, and worsening conditions for staff. (para 3) 3) To change the situation requires a major shift in attitudes. (para 4) 4) The only possible source of change must come from companies themselves. (para 4)

Rhetorical question a) What are they?

b) Is such a shift likely to take place? c) So, what must they do? d) What is the result?

2 Vocabulary of business and economics In the sample answer answer, find vocabulary items connected to the topic of economics economics

Economics

profits

3 Using noun pairs pairs to compress information It is common in essays to use pairs of nouns in which one noun acts like an adjective. adjective. Find the nouns in the sample answer that follow these:

First noun • pension • health • management • interest • manufacturing

Following noun ................................................ ................................................ ................................................ ................................................ ................................................

First noun • world • labour • unemployment • trade • service

Following noun ................................................ ................................................ ................................................ ................................................ ................................................

Answers 1 1d / 2a / 3b / 4c 2 Companies, profits, world trade, economic realities, expense, manufacturing, labour costs, service industries, wealthier, low interest rates, wages, wages, unemployment rates, pension provisions, jobs, laissez-faire, laissez -faire, global economics, employees, units of labour 3 pension provisions / health care / management philosophy / interest rates / manufacturing companies / world trade / labour costs / unemployment rates rates / trade unions / service industries

IELTS on Track


40


Sample Answer

Test 4

Task 2

entr ating on c n o c e r a s e i n a p countr ies com y n a m les w ill be n p i m t a a x h e t f e o s e a g c n e a r h t A It seems to be of their staf f f. e r a f l e of f f er ed. w s e t h n t e g m n e i v t o c r e l p g m e i n e l e pr of its and ar d some possib n a n o i t i s o p s i h t por t – making the pr esented to sup s e i t i l a e r c i m o n o b y simple ec ng the last i d r e l l u o D r t ? n d o e c v e i s i h c e a d a g r ow is this bein H . e Globalised w or ld t s n e e mov ed v p x a e h t e s p e o l l r a u E m s d n e a h t A biggest pr of its at anuf actur ing companies in the US r labour e w o l e v a h h c i h w m d y ear s man y ico or T hailan x e M , tw ent y y a n i inter est h w C o l e k e i l s u s e i o t m o e l n b o a c e en their f actor ies to r ies in w ealthier countr ies hav e be to keep w ages and t r ates n e vi ce indust m y o l p m e n costs. Ser v u g n i nions and r is u e d a r t r e k a e w , s r ate ly . ov ing r apid y r p m i m o r r f s n o i t d w or sening i n a , s cond e c i t c a r p e l y of business-st s e l p m a x e r e h staf f f on shor t t o c i e r m a e d e r a e c h a t e r n o o i t m a In educ sities emplo y ons or r i e s v i i v n o u r p y n n a o i M s . n f f e f p a t e jobs aking expensiv conditions f or s m m o r r f their ow n jo s r e o v f l e y y l s p m p e a h e t r g o n i t s d r er s ar e f or ce u contr acts, r elea t c e L . s t i f e n e b ocesses. r m p r e h t c u g s n o y l b r d e e h t t o o of f fe r ing y is not pr om t l a y o l f o e s n e s A o see how y ear s. t t l u c i f f f i d ev er y f ew y s i t I . s if t in attitude h s r o jo j a z-f air e e m s a s i s a l e r e i h u t q e e r r o n o m i t d n ua ro m T o change the sit d, as gov er nments embr ace mor e a hange must come f r e c iev of ly this might be ach onomics. T he on y ly possible sour ce s member s of a f ami y c a e l s a e b e o y l o g l appr oach of see their emp to build o s t p u d o e r e g n ’ s y r e e h k T r . o s w e elv ith companies thems f labour . T he y should collabor ate w w ho tr usts that his w or ker ly units o A . e r a c h t l a e not as cost y h till need d s n a s e i n n o i a t p c e m t o o C r . p r e n k or sio good lev els of pen pr otect his inter ests is a better w to emplo y er is tr y ing . uit y becoming e k i l s k lo y alt y and contin o o l e r u t u f philosoph y the t n e m e g a n a m r ro m the next f n i e s s e o g h t n a y y l h l c a i r c o e jo j p a s m W ithout an y w or ker s, e m r o f l u f s s e r t s e t dashed. o n , d e r u t r tougher and mor u n e b o hopes need t e s o h w , n o i t a r e n ge (305 words)

Notes • The introductory paragraph manages to paraphrase many of the words used in the task prompt. This shows good command of vocabulary and creates a positive impression. • The essay has many noun noun pairs to help to communicate complex information more efficiently. • The essay has a good mixture of simple sentences and complex ones. The final paragraph, for example, consists of only one complex sentence. • The variety of vocabulary vocabular y suggests that the writer has some background knowledge of business/economics terminology. IELTS on Track


41



TEST 5 TASK 1


Your friend from England is making a business trip to your town. She has never visited your country before and wants to know what you can do together in her free time. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter • describe some activities for her free free time • suggest some restaurants/food in your town • offer to meet her Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter: Dear .....................................,

r

d IELTS on Track


42


Test 5

Plan Your Answer

Task 1


Organization Organizatio n or private individual Someone you… know well, …a little or …don’t know ersona nall Frie Friend ndly ly or Neutral Formal or Perso

Step 2 Generate ideas some activities restaurants/food meeting

visiting temples / singing karaoke tofu restaurant / udon noodles ask about arrival times


Verb tenses Suggesting activities Anticipating pleasure Offering to meet How to start? How to finish?

describing and suggesting activities; explaining briefly about food and restaurants, offering to meet mainly present tense / some future / occasional imperative you might enjoy / like to… / Let’s try some… I’ll enjoy the chance / I’d love to be your guide Let me know….. and I’ll meet you…. I was delighted to hear about your visit…… Please write again soon, / All the best,

GAP focus — VERB FORMS


Using verb forms, complete this sample answer then look at the full sample answer over the page. Dear Sally, ........... ....... ..... I ............... delighted to hear about your visit to Kyoto in September. I’m sure you ....... fascinating fascinating place and I ............... enjoy the chance to show you some of its beauty.

...... .......... ....... ..... ..

my city a

I ............... not sure how much free time you ............... have but any visitor to Kyoto ............... to see the famous temples. There ............... too many to describe but I ............... love to be your guide. Perhaps singing with microphones ............... not a common leisure activity activity in western countries but you might still enjoy an evening of karaoke, Japanese style. Most karaoke places ............... the words to songs in English so don’t worry! Just ............... it as a chance to unwind. I know that you ............... interestin interestingg food so let’s let’s ............... some while you ............... here. There are some great udon noodle bars and I ............... a nice restaurant that specialises in tofu dishes – very healthy! me know your arrival times and I ............... meet you at the airport. I don’t here on your first day! ...............

Please

...............

again soon,

All the best, Sachiko

IELTS on Track


43


...............

you to get lost


Test 5

Task 1

1 Use Use of ‘it’, ‘it’, ‘its’, ‘its’, ‘some’, ‘some’, ‘here’, ‘here’, ‘that’ ‘that’ to refer refer to other words words Sometimes writers writers try to be more economical, economical, or avoid repetition, by using little words like ‘it’, ‘its’, ‘that’ instead of repeating words or previously used expressions. In the various paragraphs paragraphs of the sample answer answer,, find the little words listed below. below. What do these little words refer to? (para 1) I’ll enjoy the chance chance to show show you some of of its beauty (‘its’ refers to .......................... ) (para (para 2) Why don’t don’t we do do that on one or two of the days. (‘that’ refers to .......................... ) (para (para 2) Just Just treat treat it as a chance to unwind (‘it’ refers to .......................... ) (para 3) I know you love love interesting interesting food food so let’s try some while you are here (‘some’ refers to .......................... ) (para 4) I don’t want want you to to get lost lost here on your first day (‘here’ refers to .......................... )

2 Polite suggestions When you are expecting a guest you sometimes make suggestions for good things to do. Find 3 different examples examples in the paragraphs paragraphs of the sample answer answer of how to make suggestions politely. Paragraph 2

....................................... ........................................................... ........................................ ........................................ ........................................ ....................................... ................................... ................

Paragraph 2

....................................... ........................................................... ........................................ ........................................ ........................................ ....................................... ................................... ................

Paragraph 3

....................................... ........................................................... ........................................ ........................................ ........................................ ....................................... ................................... ................

3 Synonyms Find synonyms synonyms in the sample answer for these expressions. expressions.

Synonym in sample answer very interesting (paragraph 1)

....................................... ........................................................ .................

opportunity (1)

........................................ ........................................................ ................

relax (2)

...................................... ........................................................ ..................

lyrics (2)

...................................... ........................................................ ..................

taste (3)

...................................... ........................................................ ..................

good for you (3)

........................................ ........................................................ ................

Tell me (4)

........................................ ........................................................ ................

Answers 1 Kyoto / see temples / singing karaoke / interesting food / Kyoto 2 Why don’t we… / ...how about…/ let’s 3 fascinating / chance / unwind / the words / try / healthy / Let me know...

IELTS on Track


44


Sample Answer

Test 5

Task 1

ly , Dear Sal y

ur e y ou w ill s m ’ I . r e b m e t p e o K y oto in S t t i s i v r some of u u o y o y y t u w o o b h a s r o a t e e h c o jo y the chan I w as delighted t ating place and I’ll en jo c in f ind m y cit y a f as its beaut y . v es to see o l o t o y K o t r o t i e but an y v is v a h l l ’ u s. T her e o y y a e d m e i h t t e f e r r o f o h w c t u r m o I’m not sur e how so w h y don’t w e do that on one er haps singing w ith les . P the f amous temp cr ibe but I’d lov e to be y our guide countr ies but how er n des ar e too man y to a common leisur e activ it y in w est e st y le? Most kar aoke es ot micr ophones is n t one ev ening of kar aoke – Japan y ! Just tr eat it as a r or r eas about tr y ing at l ds to songs in English so don’t w or places hav e the w . chance to unw ind r e. T her e e h e r a u o y e l i h w t’s tr y some e l o s cialises d e o p o s f t g a n i h t t s t e r n e a t r n u i a v e st I know that y ou lo n noodle bar s and I know a nice r e do ar e some gr eat u health y ! er y in tof u dishes – v ant y ou w t ’ n o d I . t r o p r i y ou at the a t e e m l l ’ I d n a s e ri v al tim y our ar r Let me know y ur f ir st da y ! o y n o e r e h t s o l t to ge ri te again soon, P lease w r All the best, Sachiko (197 words)

Notes • The use of of future tense forms forms is common in letter which talks about about future actions actions (eg I’ll enjoy the chance to show you… / I’ll meet you at the airport) • The letter has has conversational conversational features which add add to its its friendly feel (eg …how about… / Just treat it as a chance… / I don’t want you to get lost… / I know that you…) • Use of ‘so’ ‘so’ as an informal link between between a description and suggestion/advice suggestion/advice (eg Most karaoke places have… so don’t worry / any visitor… loves to see the…temples so why don’t we…) IELTS on Track


45



TE ST 5 TASK 2


To learn a foreign language successfully you need to spend time in the country where the language is spoken. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS on Track


46


Test 5

Plan Your Answer

Task 2




take a position – agree or disagree with question learn / foreign language / successfully / time / country agree / disagree.


Ask questi questions ons (mostly based on key words)

What is situation situation of language language learning in schools? What are some examples of good schemes for learning languages overseas?

generally not always successful

What are some counter-views?

study abroad schemes for pupils; learning new language language in context intensive study overseas for adults – increasing proficiency / cultural contact some gifted people learn languages without travel or contact / effect of Internet options

Step 3 Structure the ideas Int Introduc ductio tion Para aragrap graph h2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4 Paragraph 5 Conclusion

5

tak take a pos positio tion on the cent entral vie viewp wpoi oin nt in the the essay ssay ques questtion; say say what the essay is going to achieve children in in sc schools – man many do don’t le learn la languages we well; go going ab abroad he helps study abroad schemes for pupils – benefits adults on on in intensive la language co courses ov overseas – benefits gifted learners of languages who don’t go abroad possible effect of Internet on language learning


Much adults too are take several months or longer away from working to study languages intensively oversea. It seems a successful way both of lifting language proficiently and of understanding the cultural pattern of native speakers.


It is a true that some successful language learners are never been to the country where that language is speaking. Such learner probably have gift for learning languages and would be success under any circumstances with regular effort. For most peoples, however, learning in a social context are central to motivation and enjoyment in learn. With the available of llanguag anguagee learning options online, it will being interested to see if quality of languag l anguagee learning improve, improve, especially for that people in isolated places who doesn’t have the resources to aford expensive courses overseas. Can you find and correct a total of 23 errors? Your sc score? 14 (Good) 11 (OK) 9 (Try harder)

IELTS on Track


47

7 (One more chance to improve!)



Test 5

Task 2

1 Prepositions Prepositions Prepositions are an important important part of grammatical grammatical accuracy accuracy in writing. Put in the missing prepositions prepositions from these these parts of the sample sample answer (Don’t look yet!) yet!)

• …and …and thei theirr thoug thought htss are are ........ other things • …the …the oppo opport rtun unit ityy ....... speak ....... people ....... the target culture ....... the new language ....... a regular basis. • most most chil childr dren en emer emerge ge ....... their school years ....... very little command ....... a foreign language • …a suc succe cess ssfu full way way both both ....... lifting language proficiency, and ....... understanding the cultural patterns • Such Such lear learne ners rs pro probab bably ly have have a gift gift ....... learning languages and would be successful ....... regular effort • especially ....... those people ....... isolated places

2 Referencing — (B)efore or (L)ater? We use words like ‘it’ or ‘this’ to refer to things already mentioned. This aids cohesion in writing. Do these expressions expressions from the the sample answer answer refer to things mentioned mentioned ( )efore or ( B )efore L )ater?

Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4

Paragraph 5

• • • • •

It’s possible that the culture of that foreign language is very far away B or L … that is excellent B or L … and this gives excellent opportunities to really become proficient proficient B or L It seems a successful way both of lifting language proficiency proficiency B or L It is true that some successful language learners have never been to the country where that language is spoken B or L • Such learners learners probably have a gift for learning languages B or L • …it will be interesting to see if the quality of language learning improves B or L

3 Unscrambling ‘chunks’ Words often go around together in groups, and may be best learnt in ‘meaning chunks’. Unscramble these groups of words before checking the sample answer.

• • • • •

If to have is enough lucky a child opportunities country to have visit the to as take a pupils can as year much opportunities excellent excellent gives language to to proficient proficient really in foreign foreign become a

• • • •

way a seems it successful successful gift a languages languages for for have learning circumstances any successful successful under under of with availability the

Answers 1 on / to; with; from; in; on / from; with; of / of; of; / for; with / for; in 2 L / B / B / B / L / B / L 3 if a child is lucky enough to have / to have opportunities to visit the country / pupils can take as much as a year / gives excellent opportunities / to become really proficient in a foreign language / it seems a successful way / have a gift for learning languages / successful under any circumstances circumstances / with the availability of

IELTS on Track


48


Sample Answer

Test 5

Task 2

ntr y of u o c e h t n i e m i t s e necessitate g a u g n a l n g i e r o l to lear ning. f a i a c i f g e n i n n e r b a e y y l l e t a m e h r t t It is not clear e that it is ex u g r a l l i w y a s s e s i ly t th ses f or on y s a l c e v that language bu a h y y l b a b o r chool, the y p s t a s e e is v er y f ar g g a a u u g g n n a l a l n n g i g i e e r r o o f f n t r cultur e of tha e h W hen childr en lea t t a h t e l b i s s nough to hav e o e p y k s ’ c t I u l . k s i e e d l w i h a c s a r a f ew hou her things. If is excellent. t o t a n h o t , e r n a e k s o t p h s g u s i o the language h c i aw a y and their th h w n i ur e in the t l y u r t c n t u e o g c r a e t h t e h t i t s i m ro ro m oppor tunities to v por tunit y to speak w ith people f r er ge f r m e n e r d l i h c t s o p o m , ly , how ev er Ev en better is the gular basis. Unf or tunate y atev er h w d n a , e g a u g e n r a l new language on a h v er y little command of a f or eign w it ce. their school y ear s f ten is lost thr ough lack of pr acti v e o of their r a e y a s a h command the y ha c u m ls can take as i p u p y b ly e r e h w s me r eal y e o c m e e h b c o s t e s v e a i t h i n w u o t n r xcellent oppo Man y schools e s e v i g language is s i e h h t t , d t n n a e , d m a n o o r r i b v a n e school studies inside its ow n e c n i s ev er al months , s e g g a n i u k g a n t a l e r n a g i e o r o o t f . Man y adults pr of icient in a t x e t n o eems a c s l t a I i . c s o a s e l s a r r e u v t o a y y n l e s v uages intensi embedded in it g n a l y d ing the u d t n s a o t t s r k e r d o n w u f m o o r r d f pr of icienc y an or longer aw a y e g a u g n a l g n i t f i l f th o successf ul w a y bo ativ e speaker s. of n countr y e h t o t n cultur al patter ns e e b r e v e ar ner s hav e n e l e g a u g n a l l u f f or lear ning s s t f e i c g c a u s e v e a m h o y y s l b t a a b It is tr ue th ef f f or t. For h lear ner s pr o c r u a l S u . g n e r e k h o t p i s w s s i e c e g n w her e that langua be successf ul under an y cir cumsta to motiv ation and uld tr al languages and w o , lear ning in a social context is cen v er most people, how e . g o see if t g n i t s e r e jo y ment in lear nin t n i en jo e b l s online, it w il n o i t p o g n i n r a isolated e l n i e g e l a p u o g e n p a l e f s o o h y t t i l i r o ly f s, especial y e W ith the av ailab v o r p m i g n i n r a e es ov er seas. l s e r g u o a c u g e n v i a l s f n e o p y x t e i l the q ua ces to af f fo r d r u o s e r e h t e v a h t places w ho don’ (314 words)

Notes • The introduction is short but clear. clear. • The writer has generated generated a good range of of ideas and examples to maintain interest. • There is not a conventional conclusion summarising summa rising again the main points, but the speculation about the future acts to round off the essay in a reasonable way. • Because the essay topic is open to debate, the writer uses a fair amount of language to show uncertainty (‘is not clear’, ‘seems’, ‘is possible’, ‘probably’, ‘it will be interesting to see’) IELTS on Track


49



TE ST 6 TASK 1


You are going to visit New Zealand for an ‘English and Homestay’ program. You have just received details of your homestay host family. Write your first letter to the family. In your letter • introduce yourself • ask the family some questions to get information that is • important to you • tell the family about your arrival date and time Write at least 150 words. You do NOT need to write any addresses. Begin your letter: Dear .....................................,

r

d IELTS on Track


50


Test 6

Plan Your Answer

Task 1


Organization or private individuals Someone you… know well, … a little or …don’t know Semi-for Semi-formal mal or Personal Friendly or neutr neutral al (and polite)

Step 2 Generate ideas introduce yourself asking for information meeting

name, nationality, age, occupation, occupation , interests; your family pets? / vegetarian food? / piano? Christchurch / airline name and flight / arrival time

Step 3 Think it through talking about yourself, asking questions to get information, informing of arrival date and time present tense / present progressive (..ing) / occasional future I’m a …/ I have …/ I like… …if you don’t mind / Do you have… by chance Another question I’d like to ask …. I’m arriving at…on… / I hope you’ll be able to… Greetings from….! (friendly and enthusiastic) I’m really excited about… / Yours sincerely (or ‘Best wishes’)

Language needed?

Verb tenses tense s Talking about self Polite questions Talking about arrival How to start? How to finish?

GAP focus — LITTLE WORDS (NOT prepositions)


Complete this sample answer then look at the full sample answer over the page. Dear Mr. and Mrs. Macintosh, Greetings from Germany! ............. name is Gudrun and I’m coming to New Zealand Z ealand soon to be ............. homestay guest. I’m writing to tell ........... about ........... and to ask ........... questions. I’m getting really excited about the trip. First then, ........... information about ........... . I’m 19 years old and I’m a medical student in Berlin. ............. father and mother are ........... doctors. I have an older brother who is studying business in Geneva. I like reading and cooking, and I also play ........... piano. There are ........... things I’d like to ask ........... , if you don’t mind. Do you have ........... pets? I’ve always wanted to stay with a family with ........... dog or cat! Another question I’d like to ask is whether ............. not you can cook vegetarian food. Finally, do you by chance have .......... piano? I really should keep practising, if possible. I’m arriving in Christchurch on SIA 337 at 15.35 on meet ........... . I’m looking forward to hearing from ...............

.............

...........

12th January. I hope you will be able to

soon.

sincerely,

Gudrun

IELTS on Track


51



Test 6

Task 1

1 Sequencing information When we want to write personal information or ask questions in a letter we often use connecting expressions which show the relationship between parts of the letter more clearly. Which connecting expression below could replace ones in the sample answer?

Connecting expression First of all Next Lastly

Sample answer expression ........................................... ........................................... ...........................................

2 Use of present progressive The present progressive is used to talk about either what is happening now or in the future. Read the sentences sentences from the sample answer answer.. Are they about the Future or Now?

Sample answer expression I’m coming to New Zealand soon I’m writing to tell you I’m getting really excited about the trip. ...a brother who is studying business in Geneva I’m arriving in Christchurch on SIA 337

Future Event (F)

Now (N)

3 Using expressions to soften requests or needs It is important not to be too direct with someone someone you don’t know. know. Study these examples. examples. The expressions expressions can be at the beginning or the end. If you don’t mind , there….) There are some things I’d like to ask you, if you don’t mind. ( If Finally, do you by chance have a piano? (OR ‘…do you have a piano, by chance?) ( If possible,) I really should keep practising, if possible. ‘Soften’ these sentences from another homestay letter, using similar expressions • I need to ask about smoking in your house

...................................... ......................................................... ....................................... .............................. ..........

• I should phone home every day.

...................................... ......................................................... ....................................... .............................. ..........

• Have you got a computer in your home?

...................................... ......................................................... ....................................... .............................. ..........

• I like to wash my towels every day.

...................................... ......................................................... ....................................... .............................. ..........

• Do you have air conditioning in your bedrooms?

...................................... ......................................................... ....................................... .............................. ..........

Answers 1 First, then, / Another question (I’d like to ask…) / Finally, 2 F / N / N / N / F 3 If you don’t mind, I need to ask…….. / If possible, I should phone….. / Have you by chance got a computer……? / I like to wash my towels every day, if possible / Do you, by chance, have air conditioning………?

IELTS on Track


52


Sample Answer

Test 6

Task 1

. Macintosh, s r M d n a . r M r a e D Z ealand w e N o t g n i m o c m udr un and I’ G s i e and to m f l a e n s y y M m ! t y u n o a b m a r e u o G ro m i ting to tell y r r w Gr eetings f r m ’ I . t s e u g y a mest he tr ip. o t h t r u u o o b y a e b d e o t i t c n x o e ly so etting r eal y g m ’ I . s n o i t s e u q ask some edical m a m ’ I d n a d l o . I’m 19 y ear s e m t u o b a n o i av e an older t h a I m . r s o r f o n i t c e o m d o h s t , o n Fir st, the mother ar e b g, and I d n i n k a o r o c e h d t n a f a y g n i M d . student in Ber lin y ing business in Genev a. I like r ea ud br other w ho is st no. also pla y the pia y ou hav e an y o D . d n i m t ’ n o d y ou sk y ou, if y a o t e t? Another k i a l c d ’ r I o s g g o n i d h t a e h t m i o w ly ly , T her e ar e s . Final y w ith a f ami y d y o a o f t s n o a i t r a d t e e t g n e a v w k pets? I’v e alw a y s sk is w hether or not y ou can coo tising, if possible. c oa ly should keep pr a q uestion I’d like t v e a piano? I r eal y ha do y ou b y chance th Januar y . I hope 2 1 e h t n o 5 337 at 15.3 A I S n o h c r u h c t s ri v ing in Chr i I’m ar r eet me. m o t e l b a e b l l i w y ou y ou soon. m o r r f g n i r a e h o t wa r d I’m looking f or w ly , Y our s sincer e y Gudr un (176 words)

Notes • Use of ellipsis (leaving (leaving out of words without without damaging damaging grammar or meaning) helps helps written flow (eg There are some things ( that ) I’d like to ask you / Another Another question that ( that ) I’d like to ask you …). that • Appropriate use use of contracted contracted forms helps helps to make make the letter letter a little less formal formal (eg ‘I’m’, not ‘I am’, ‘I’d’ not ‘I would’, ‘I’ve’ not ‘I have’). • Use of ‘about’ ‘about’ is common in letters of of this kind (eg tell you about… / information about… / excited about… ). wishes’ or ‘All the best’ if you want to sound more friendly when the • It’s fine to to use ‘Best wishes’ or letter ends. ‘Yours sincerely’ is a safe, neutral option, if that feels more comfortable for a first letter. IELTS on Track


53



TEST 6 TASK 2


Some people say that friends are more important than family in today’s world; others say that family is always more important. Write in support of one of these views. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

IELTS on Track


54


Test 6

Plan Your Answer

Task 2




agree or disagree friends / family / today’s world / more important argument / support / one / views


mostly based on key words) Ask questi questions ons ( mostly

What are some effects of geographical mobility?

causing friends to replace families to some degree? salaries / conditions in richer countries not expanding rapidly. Why? birth, marriage, death and care of elderly relatives family tells you who you are / where you are from are important, can be chosen; better than some families which have problems or breakdown

Isn’t family vital at key life stages? What about family and identity? But aren’t friends even more vital?

Step 3 Structure the ideas Introduction Paragraph 2 Paragraph 3 Paragraph 4 Conclusion

6

say what view you are going to argue for, and why effects on family of moving family takes major responsibility during key life stages family and family history give you your identity. some families break up; we can choose friends, but in the end family more likely to take responsibility for its members.


There are crucial time in life when families seem replaceable. These including the main life changes such as marriage, birth and deaths. With life expectancy increasing, caring for olderly relatives is also becoming a vital role for family members. Although friends can be rely upon to offer support and loyalty, they may no always be willing to sacrifice their lives for long-terms care of an elderly or sick person who is not relative.


Family ties create a long, unbroken history stretching far into past and this means that member of a family feel a share sense of identity and genetic correction. In Australia, for example, it seems that a popular pastimes involves the tracing of family trees back to original countries from which migrating families come. Friend are obviously vital to everyones wellbeing and it is truth that we choose our friends but cannot choose our family. Sad, there are numerous story of families who deliberately lose contact with another because of disputes or dart secrets. Nevertheless, it is the family, ultimatum, which accept and carries responsibility to its members. members. Can you find and correct a total of 26 errors? Your sc score? 16 (Good) 12 (OK) 10 (Try harder)

IELTS on Track


55

8 (Time’s running out!)



Test 6

Task 2

1 Av Avoiding oiding over-use of ‘is/are’ and ‘has/have’ In essays, weaker weaker writers sometimes use verbs like ‘is/are’ and ‘has/have’ ‘has/have’ too much. Find the sentences sentences below in the sample answer answer.. Which verbs replace ‘is/are’ or ‘has/have’? ‘has/have’? • • • • • • •

the stron strong g sense sense of respons responsibilit ibility y that family family members members have for one another Blood ti ties are the most powerful shapers of long-term relationships in most cases. …cruc …crucial ial time timess in life life when when famil families ies are irreplaceable These are the main life changes such as marriage, birth and death …mem …m embe bers rs of a fami family ly have a shared sense of identity a popu popula larr past pastim imee is the tracing of family trees …it is is the the family family ulti ultimat mately ely whic which h has the responsibility for its members.

2 Verb forms with prepositions Write the prepositions that follow each of these verbs from the sample answer. to rely

.................

to care

to split

.................

to lose contact

to feel

.................

.................

.................

3 Using adverbs to communicate attitude to the reader reader In essays, writers sometimes sometimes use adverbs to communicate an attitude or feeling to the reader in addition to information or viewpoint. Could these adverbs replace the ones used in the sample answer appropriately and not alter meaning very much? Tick ‘YES’ or ‘NO’.

Adverb in the sample answer • principally • certainly • Clearly • obviously • Sadly • ultimately

Replacement of similar meaning? mainly truly Obviously apparently Unfortunately lastly

Answers 1 feel / represent / seem / include include / feel / involves involves / accepts; carries 2 rely on / care for / feel for / split split up / lose contact with with 3 Y / N /Y / N /Y / N

IELTS on Track


56


YES

NO

Sample Answer

Test 6

Task 2

ly ds, pr incipal y n e i r r f n a h t t n a t r r e mor e impo a s e i l i s f eel f or one m r a e f b t m a e h t m e y y l u i g m r a a f l l i t w T his essa y ponsibilit y tha s e r f o e s n e s g of long-ter m n o s r r t e s p a e h h s t l f u o f f r e e s w u o beca t the most p n e s e r p e r s e i t d o another . Blo cases. t s o m n i s p i h s n o i r elat r e of ten – o m e v o m e l p o e p , er n societies at man y d h o t m s n y a n e a m m s n i i h t t a y y l h r ly tr ue t v en w ar s. Clea e d n a It is cer tain y n o i t a r g i place the e m r c s i p i m h o s n d o c n e e i , r r f k r g o n because of w nd that str o par ents’ a r i y y e l l h a t c i h m p o r r a f r r g a o f e g d v e up f amilies ar e split east f or those people w ho hav e mo ly , at l extended f ami y or iginal ar ea. e include the s e h T . e l b a e c a l p e r r milies seem ir a f n e h ctanc y w e e p f i x l e n i e f i s l e h m t i i t W l . a i h c t ir th and dea ly T her e ar e cr u b , e g a i r r or f ami y r f a e l m o s r l a a h t i c v u s a s g e n i g is also becom main lif e chan s e v i t a l lo y alt y , the y e r d n y y l a r e t d r l o e p r p o u f s g r n i e r f f f ly or er y d incr easing, ca ied upon to o l l e e r n e a b f n o a e c r a s c d n m e i r r r h f g-te member s. Althoug illing to sacr if ice their liv es f or lon e w ma y not alw a y s b t a r elativ e. no sick per son w ho is ast and this p e h t o t n i r a f g n i tor y str etch s i h n e genetic k o d r n b a n y u , t i g t n n o e l d i a f e o t e a ly ties cr e a shar ed sens Fami y l e e f y y l i me inv olv es i m t a s f a p a r f a o l u s r p e o b p m a e it seems that means that m , e l p m migr ating a h x e c i r h o w f , m a i o l r r a f r t s s e i u r t A or iginal coun e connection. In h t o t k c a b s e e r ly t i y the tr acing of f am f amilies came. e choose w t a h t e u r t s i t i w ellbeing and s ’ e n o y r stor ies of e v s e u o o r t e l a m t i u v n y y e l r s a u o e i r ly , the ly . Sad y i y Fr iends ar e obv m a f r u sputes or i o d e f s o o o e h s c u a t c o e n b n r a e c ri ends but ri es ith one anoth w our f r t c a t and car r n o s c t p e e s c o l c a y y l h e c t i a h r w e , b i y y ly , ultimatel i y m a f amilies w ho del f e h t s i t i , s s e l er the dar k secr ets. Nev its member s. f or the r esponsibilit y (276 words)

Notes • The introduction gives a clear indication of the writer’s w riter’s position and the essay’s ess ay’s direction. • There is no separate concluding concluding paragraph; paragraph; the writer uses the final paragraph paragraph to give the other view and uses the final sentence as a sort of conclusion. This saves time if under pressure. • There is a good range range of complex sentences and these aid the flow flow of ideas being put forward. forward. • The vocabulary is varied and appropriate appropriate and this contributes contributes to a strong answer. answer. IELTS on Track


57


IELTS on Track, Test Practice, General Training.pdf

Recommend Documents