Sample IELTS Essay Topics In both the Academic and General IELTS Writing sections, you need to write an essay of at least 250 words. This means that your essay will be about 4-5 paragraphs long. Below are several sample IELTS essay topics, organized under eight broad categories. You should plan to
write at least one essay from each category to gain some experience in handling h andling various types of subjects. Ideally, you should write several such essays so you can do so effectively and within 40 minutes. GOVERNMENT Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and education? Or is it the responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to look after their citizens themselves? What should a government do for a country to become successful? Should money be spent on space exploration? Should rich countries forgive all debts for poor countries? Does foreign aid help donor countries more than the recipients? Should rich countries pay more for environmental damage? Most high level jobs are done by men. Should the government encourage a certain percentage of these jobs to be reserved for women? Should developing countries concentrate on improving industrial skills or should they promote education first? Safety standards are important when building people's homes. Who should be responsible for enforcing strict building codes - the government or o r the people who build the homes? Discuss the advantage and disadvantage of giving international aid to poor countries. Should criminals be punished with lengthy jail terms or re-educated and rehabilitated using community service programs for instance, before being reintroduced to society? In most countries disabled people are not no t catered for adequately, e.g. buildings are often inappropriately designed. Governments rely too heavily on charities and v oluntary organizations to provide assistance and funding. What further measures could be taken to assist disabled people? In your opinion should government intervene in the rights of the individual with regard to family planning?
The best way to reduce the number of traffic accidents is to make all young drivers complete a safe driving education course before being licensed to drive. MODERN SOCIETY Nowadays doctors can become very rich. Maybe they should not focus on profitable activities such as plastic surgery or looking after rich patients and concentrate more on patients health, no matter how rich they are? Does travel help to promote understanding and communication between countries? In your opinion what factors contribute to a good movie? Are famous people treated unfairly by the media ? Should they be given more privacy, or is the price of their fame an invasion into their private lives? Is animal testing necessary? Some businesses now say that no one can smoke cigarettes in any of their offices. Some governments have banned smoking in all public places. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons. To what extent is the use of animals in scientific research acceptable? Human beings do not need to eat meat in order to maintain good health because they can get all their food needs from meatless products and meatless substances. A vegetarian diet is as healthy as a diet containing meat. Argue for or against the opinion above. Forests are the lungs of the earth. Destruction of the world's forests amounts to death of the world we currently know. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Are our zoos cruel to wild animals? Discuss. Zoos are sometimes seen as necessary but not poor alternatives to a natural environment. Discuss some of the arguments for and/or against keeping animals in zoos. To what extent will migration from the developing world to the developed world become a social and political issue in the 21st century? In Britain, when someone gets old, they often go to live in a home with other old people where there are nurses to look after them. Sometimes the government has to pay for this care. Who should be responsible for our old people? Give reasons. The first car appeared on British roads in 1888. By the year 2000 there may be as many as 29 million vehicles on British roads. Alternative forms of transport should be encouraged and international laws introduced to control car ownership and use. What do you think?
The best way to reduce the number of traffic accidents is to make all young drivers complete a safe driving education course before being licensed to drive. News editors decide what to broadcast on TV and what to print in newspapers. What factors do you think influence their decisions? Have we become used to bad news? Would it be better if more good news was reported? TV: could you be without it? Discuss. To what extent will migration from the developing world to the developed world become a social and political issue in the 21st century? The mass media, including TV, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping people's ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer. Tourism is becoming increasingly important as a source of revenue to many countries but its disadvantages should not be overlooked. What are some of the problems of tourism? The mass media, including TV, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping people's ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer TECHNOLOGY Does modern technology make life more convenient, or was life better when technology was simpler? Will modern technology, such as the internet ever replace the book or the written word as the main source of information? We are becoming increasingly dependent on computers. They are used in businesses, hospitals, crime detection and even to fly planes. What things will they be used for in future?.Is this dependence on computers a good thing or should we be more suspicious of their benefits?Use specific details and examples in your answer. In what ways has information technology changed work and working practices in the past 10 years? Technology is making communication easier in today's world, but at the expense of personal contact as many people choose to work at home in front of a computer screen. What dangers are there for a society which depends on computer screens rather than face-to-face contact for its main means of communication? Will the Internet bring people of the world closer together?
The first car appeared on British roads in 1888. By the year 2000 there may be as many as 29 million vehicles on British roads. Alternative forms of transport should be encouraged and international laws introduced to control car ownership and use. What do you think? The mass media, including TV, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping people's ideas. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer. EMPLOYMENT Should retirement be compulsory at 65 years of age? Telecommuting' refers to workers doing their jobs from home for p art of each week and communicating with their office using computer technology. Telecommuting is growing in many countries and is expected to be common for most office workers in the coming decades. How do you think society will be affected by the growth of telecommuting? In some countries the average worker is obliged to retire at the age of 50, while in others people can work until they are 65 or 70. Until what age do you think people should be encouraged to remain in paid employment? Give reasons for your answer. ENVIRONMENT & ECOLOGY To what extent should economic planning be influenced by the need of environmental conservation? Damage of the environment is an inevitable consequence of worldwide improvements in the standard of living. Discuss. The rising levels of congestion and air pollution found in most of the world cities can be attributed directly to the rapidly increasing number of private cars in use. In order to reverse this decline in the quality of life in cities, attempts must be made to encourage people to use their cars less and public transport more. Discuss possible ways to encourage the use of public transport. The threat of nuclear weapons maintains world peace. Nuclear power provides cheap and clean energy. The benefits of nuclear technology far outweigh the disadvantages. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer.
EDUCATION Education is the single most important factor in the development of a country. Do you agree? What are factors which are related to academic success in high-school students? Do the benefits of study abroad justify the difficulties? What advice would you offer to a prospective student?
The idea of going overseas for university study is an exciting prospect for many people. But while it may offer some advantages, it is probably better to stay home because of the difficulties a student inevitably encounters living and studying in a different culture. To what extent do you agree or disagree this statement? Give reasons for your answer. Education is recognized as vital to the future of any society in today's world. Governments throughout the world should make education compulsory for all children between the ages of 5 and 15. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Foreign language instruction should begin in kindergarten. Discuss. Should sports classes be sacrificed in High School so students can concentrate on academic subjects? To what extent should universities function as training grounds for employment? To what extent should university courses be geared to the economic needs of society? Should children be taught sex education in schools? Computers can translate all kinds of languages well. Do our children need to learn more languages in the future? Are zoos necessary for education? PARENTS & CHILDREN Children should never be educated at home by their parents. Do you agree or disagree? Children learn best by observing behavior of adults and copying it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? GENDER ISSUES - ESSAY TOPICS To what extent has the traditional male role changed in the last 20 years? Many people believe that women make better parents than men and that this is why they have the greater role in raising children in most societies. Others claim that men are just as good as women at parenting Write an essay expressing your point of view. Give reasons for your answer.
Free Sample IELTS Essay 1 "Computers & Children" 1 Essay, 2 Results: How to Transform a Good IELTS Essay into a Great IELTS Essay
To get a high score on your IELTS essay, you need to know what a great essay consists of. To help you understand this, we have given you a chance to read two versions of the same essay – one good and the other great. Both versions have been written by an experienced IELTS trainer. Just read the two versions of the same sample essay below. You may wish to print them out to compare them more easily. Then, try to learn some expressions and sentence structures from the high-scoring essay. Use them, if possible, on exam day, and you will certainly get higher marks on your IELTS essay. Be sure to check out our other free sample IELTS essays, too.
Using a computer every day can have more negative than positive effects on children. Do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Essay 1 – High Score – Band 8-9
In today's modern world, computers are an essential part of everyday life. Around the globe, children often use computers from a very young age. Although it is important for children to participate in various well-balanced activities, in my opinion, children who use the computer daily are actually developing a critical skill for future success. The bases for my views are personal, academic, and professional. From a personal point of view, computers are an invaluable resource to help young people explore the world around them. For example, children who use Internet to satisfy their curiosity about diverse topics are already becoming independent learners. No child with a computer is ever bored! By starting early in their lives, children feel totally at ease around computers; they are also able to take advantage of the wide range of services computers provide. From an academic viewpoint, children have no choice but to master this technological invention. For instance, when I was in university, students brought their laptops to class to take notes, do research and exchange information. They wrote assignments, created presentations and developed databases. Children who build early confidence and experience in these abilities are at a distinct advantage over those who have not. From a professional perspective, the computer has found a permanent place in the workplace. Today, employers still pay to provide computer training to their employees. Tomorrow, corporations will expect prospective job applicants to already p ossess these critical job skills.
Consequently, parents who encourage their child to use the computer for a reasonable period of time daily are in fact investing in the child's future career. In conclusion, there is no doubt that the computer as a technological tool is here to stay. The sooner children become computer-literate, the better for many aspects of their future lives.
Essay 1 – Medium Score – Band 5-6
In today's modern world, computers are needed everyday. Around the world, children use computers from the time they are little. It's true that children should h ave fun when they are young; however, in my opinion, a child who knows how to use the computer will be more successful in the future. My reasons for this view are personal, ac ademic and professional. From a personal point of view, computers can help young people to learn more about the world. For example, some children use the Internet to find information on different subjects. In this way, they learn to find answers by themselves. By using the computer when they are little, children feel more comfortable around computers. They also know how to use the computer for different reasons. From an academic viewpoint, children have to learn how to use this new invention. For instance, when I was in college, many students used to bring their laptops to class. They used to take notes, do research and share information. They wrote their essays, made presentations and created useful lists. Children who can use the computer when they are young have more confidence than other children. From a professional perspective, the computer is found in every kind of office. Today, employers will still hire people who cannot use computers and give them computer training. But tomorrow, companies will expect people to have these skills already. As a result, by encouraging children to use the computer for a short time every day, parents are preparing their children for future jobs. In conclusion, it is clear that computers are now a part of our regular life. Children who can use computers easily and confidently will do better in the future.
IELTS Letter Topics Formal 1. Asking for Information
You live in an English speaking country and you want to do some voluntary, unpaid work in a developing country. Write a letter to a company called Cultural Expeditions, which organizes such trips. In your letter:
• • •
Explain why you want to do the voluntary work. State what your skills and experience are. Indicate where you would like to volunteer and for how long.
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 2. Applying for a Job
You have decided to apply for a job as a Spanish instructor that was advertised in the April edition of the magazine Teaching Professional. This ad was posted by Mr John Sullivan, d irector of the Spanish department at The Language Institute of Great Britain in London, England. In your letter to Mr Sullivan: • • •
explain why you are writing describe your qualifications and experience explain how they can contact you
Write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Kaplan IELTS 2009-2010 ) 3. Making Suggestions
You eat at your college cafeteria every lunchtime. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: • • •
explain what you like bout the cafeteria say what is wrong suggest how it could be improved
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart) 4. Applying for a Job
You are looking for a part-time job. Write a letter to an employment agency. In your letter: • • •
introduce yourself explain what sort of job you would like say what experience and skills you have
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart)
5. Complaining to a Bank
You have received a letter from your bank, asking you to acknowledge receipt of a new bank card. However, the card was missing from the envelope. Write a letter to the bank 's head office. In your letter: • • •
explain why you are writing express concern about the missing card ask them what they intend to do
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________, You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. 6. Informing an Airline
Last Tuesday you flew from New York to Paris. When you arrived home, you discovered that you had left your cabin bag on the plane. Write a letter to the airline. In your letter, you should explain: • • •
where and when you lost your bag what your bag looks like what its contents were
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Kaplan IELTS 2009-2010 ) 7. Applying for a Job
You have seen an advertisement for part-time work in a hotel for three months over the summer. Write a letter to the manager. In your letter: • • •
say what experience you have ask what the work involves enquire about conditions
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Action Plan for IELTS by Vanessa Jakeman and Clare McDowell) 8. Making Recommendations
You normally go shopping in the area where you live. However, you think some of the facilities for shoppers could be improved. Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter: • •
say in general what you like about shopping in your area say what is wrong with the facilities
•
suggest how they can be improved
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart) 9. Applying for a Job
You would like a temporary job working in the summer camp which runs sports and outdoor activities for children and young people next summer. Write a letter to the organizers of the summer camp. In your letter: • • •
explain what sort of job you would like to do describe your personality say what experience and skills you have
Begin your letter as follows: Dear Sir / Madam You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. (Question taken from Instant IELTS by Guy Brook-Hart) 10. Complaining about a Product
You live in a small university town. Last week, you drove to a big city about two hours away to buy a new laptop at a good price. You worked on the laptop all week and finished writing a long assignment that is due shortly. However, this week, the laptop doesn't even switch on. Write to the store. In your letter: • • •
tell the store where you live & what happened explain the problem with the laptop state what action you would like the store to take
Begin your letter as follows: Dear ________ You should write at least 150 words. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Free IELTS Writing Sample Letters
In Task 1 of the IELTS General Writing section, you must write a letter about a given situation. This letter will be one of the following types: Style
Characteristics
Opening
Ending
Formal
To someone you have not met, whose name you don't know
Dear Sir / Madam
Yours faithfully
Semiformal
To someone you may or may not have met, whose last Dear Mr name you know & use Brown,
Yours sincerely
Dear Ms Stone Informal
To someone you know well, whose first name you know and use
Dear John Dear Anita
Best regards Warm wishes
Each kind of letter requires a different style of writing, a specific beginning and ending salutation, formal or informal expressions and varying types of grammatical forms. As you read through the sample IELTS letters below, take note of how they vary depending on the level of familiarity with the person being written to. Practice writing your own letters from sample letter topics, until you can produce all three kinds of letters easily and quickly. Then, you will be able to complete this task effectively and easily on the day of your IELTS exam. Also, every General IELTS Writing Task 1 includes three bulleted points which you need to mention in your letter. Make sure you include these three points or else you will not get high marks, no matter how well you write. GENERAL IELTS WRITING TASK 1 SAMPLE LETTERS Free Sample IELTS Letter 001 - Complaining to a Hotel
Below is a sample letter response to Task 1 of the General IELTS Writing Section. It is a formal letter, which can be identified in several ways: • • • • •
the tone, which is official, business-like and serious the use of Dear Sir / Madam the absence of contractions the use of formal expressions (I am writing in connection with...) the closing salutation ( "Yours faithfully" instead of the more informal "Yours sincerely" or "Best regards")
General Writing Task 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. You recently stayed in a hotel in a large city. The weather was very unusual for the time of year and the heating / cooling system in the hotel was quite inadequate. Write a letter to the manager of the hotel. In your letter: • • •
give details of what went wrong explain what you had to do to overcome the problem at the time say what action you would like the manager to take
You should write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write your own address. Begin your letter as follows: Dear __________
Dear Sir / Madam I am writing in connection with my recent stay at the Four Seasons in London, England. Unfortunately, due to a malfunctioning heater in my room, I spent three miserable nights at your hotel from April 26 – 29, 2010. When I arrived in London, there was an unexpected snowstorm. I understand it does not usually snow inApril; however, when I got to my room, there was no heat. After complaining, a technician was sent up, who informed me they had to install a new heating unit. When I asked to be moved to another room, I was told the hotel was completely booked. Unfortunately, each night after work I returned to discover the problem had not been rectified. Eventually, I spent three horribly uncomfortable nights, wearing my coat to bed, wearing socks around the room and ending up with a bad cold from the unheated room. I had no time to complain as I had to catch a flight home right after my conference. I am shocked by this terrible service. This is not w hat anyone expects for $400 a night! To compensate me for this tremendous inconvenience, I ask that you refund my money right away and offer me a free, more comfortable stay in one of your finer suites in the future. If not, I am prepared to take my complaint to a higher authority. I look forward to hearing from you at the earliest, Yours faithfully, Mr John McFee
