Recent IELTS Exam Topics: Writing & Speaking

📌JULY’25 DROP: Writing Task 2 📌 🔹Nowadays young people spend too much of their free time in shopping malls. Some people fear that this may have negative effects on young people and the society they live in. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think the developments of technology make people's life more complex, so we should make life simpler without using technology. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Money for postgraduate research is limited, so financial support from the government should only be used for scientific research, not for less useful research. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think that schools do not do enough to teach young people how to take care of their health. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹Fast food is becoming more popular in many countries. Some people believe it has bad effects for lifestyle and diet. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Studies show that many criminals have a low level of education. For this reason, people believe that the best way to reduce crime is to educate people in prison so they can get a job when leave prison. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹In some countries, it is illegal for employers to reject a job applicant because of their age. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹Some feel that the best way to ensure a happy home life for children is for parents to take a parenting course once a year. Others disagree. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people believe that modern society has made people more dependent on each other, while others think that people have become more independent. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people prefer hobbies that involve the use of technology, while others enjoy hobbies that do not require any technological devices. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹In some cultures, older people are highly respected, whereas others value youth more. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹While some people believe that the greatest benefit of increased international cooperation is environmental protection, others think that the main benefit should be global business. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think a job not only provides income but also social life. Others think it is better to develop social life with people you do not work with. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think parents should read or tell stories to their children. Others think there is no need to do that as children can read books or watch movies on their own. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹In today’s world, private companies rather than the government pay for and conduct most scientific research. Do you think the advantages outweigh disadvantages? 🔹In many places, people's lifestyles are changing rapidly, and this affects family relationships. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹Some people have decided to reduce the number of times they fly every year or to stop flying altogether. Do you think the environmental benefits of this development outweigh the disadvantages for individuals and businesses? 🔹In every country, there are driving laws to ensure road safety. Some people, however, still break these laws, such as by speeding or using mobile phones while driving. What are the reasons for this? What measures could help solve this problem? 🔹Many young people change their jobs and careers frequently. What are the reasons for this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹Many aspects of the way people dress today are influenced by global fashion trends. How has global fashion become such a strong influence on people’s lives? Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹Newspapers have a significant influence on people’s ideas and opinions. Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹Many people find it difficult to learn a foreign language. What are the most challenging aspects of language learning? How can these difficulties be overcome?

🔥JULY’25 DROP: Writing Task 2 (Academic) 🔥 🔹Human civilisation has achieved remarkable technological progress over the past 100 years. Some people think this has also had negative effects on our lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Access to clean water is a basic human right. Therefore every home should have a water supply that is provided free of charge. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people argue that too much attention and too many resources have been given to the protection of wild animals and birds. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people believe that due to the potential destruction of Earth, we should invest in space exploration and colonisation of other planets such as Mars. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think it is more important to spend money on roads and motorways than on public transport. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹It is more important to spend public money on promoting a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent illness than to spend it on the treatment of the people who are already ill. To what extent to you agree or disagree? 🔹The governments should give each citizen a basic income, so they have enough money to live on, even if they are unemployed. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹The only reason people work hard is to earn more money. There are no other reasons to do it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think schools have the social responsibility to discourage children from eating junk food. Others think it is the parent's responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think schools should educate pupils according to their academic ability, and others believe pupils with different abilities should be educate together. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some scientists think that there are intelligent life forms on other planets and messages should be sent to contact them. Other scientists think it is a bad idea and would be dangerous. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Many people believe that it is important to protect all wild animals, while others think that it is important to protect some, not all of them. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think that zoos are all cruel and should be closed down. Others however believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people believe that young people should choose the jobs that they want, but other people think they should be more realistic and think more about their future. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people think that the best way to be successful in life is to get a university education. Others disagree and say that nowadays this is no longer true. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people think history has little to teach us, but others think that studying the past can help us better understand the present and predict the future. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹As populations grow, places of natural beauty in cities are being used for constructing new houses. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹In many countries, children and teenagers are committing more crimes. Why is this happening? How should they be punished? 🔹Nowadays, we are less influenced by advertising than in the past. What are the reasons? Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹In many countries, primary and secondary schools close for two months or more in the summer holidays. What is the value of long school holidays? What are the arguments in favour of shorter school holidays? 🔹Economic progress is one way to measure a country’s success. Some people believe that there are other factors should be considered when measuring the success of a country. What other factors should also be considered when measuring a country’s success? Do you think there is one factor that is more important than the others?

Writing Task 2 (AC) — February/March 2025 🔹Schools should not force children to learn a foreign language. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹The restoration of historic buildings in major cities around the world involves significant government expenditure. These funds could be better allocated towards the development of new housing and road infrastructure. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think that certain old buildings that are historically important in cities or the countryside should be preserved. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some school leavers travel or work for a period of time instead of going directly to university. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this for their study? 🔹Nowadays, many people are spending more and more time travelling to work or school. Some people believe that this is a negative development while others think there are some benefits. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some companies sponsor sports as a way to advertise themselves. Some people think it is good, while others think there are disadvantages to this. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think that international cooperation is most useful for protecting the environment, while others believe it mainly helps global business. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think that young people should follow traditions of the society. While other people think that young people should be free to behave as individuals. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹In many places, large amounts of food are wasted. What might be the reasons for this problem? What can best be done to reduce food waste? 🔹Many young people do not spend their holidays and weekends doing outdoor activities like hiking and climbing in natural environments. Why is this the case? How can they be encouraged to go out? 🔹Nowadays some consumers are less influenced by advertising than in the past. What are the reasons? Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹Ambition is being emphasised in today’s society. How important do you think it is for people who want to succeed in life? Is it a positive or negative characteristic? 🔹An increasing number of people are choosing to have cosmetic surgery in order to improve their appearance. Why are more people choosing to have operation to change the way they look? Do you think this a positive or negative development?

Writing Task 2 (AC) — February/March 2025 🔹It is better to learn the way people lived in the past through films and video records rather than written documents. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Too much emphasis is placed on education. More government money should be spent on providing free-time activities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹The best way to protect the environment is to use local resources, such as food or building materials, rather than transporting resources from other places. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Caring for children is probably the most important job in any society. Because of this, all mothers and fathers should be required to take a course that prepares them to be a good parent. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some believe that individuals living in the 21st century generally have a better quality of life compared to people from previous centuries. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹Some people think that modern communication technology is having a negative effect on social relationships. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some feel governments, rather than private companies, should be in charge of medical services. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think that if a country is already rich, further economic development will not result in its citizens being any happier. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹In some countries, students pay their college or university fees, while in some others, the government pays for them. Do you think the advantages that the government pays the money outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹The increased world demand for oil and gas has made it necessary for locating these sources in remote and untouched natural areas. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages of damaging these natural areas? 🔹In some countries, more and more shops are open longer hours every day. What are positive and negative effects of this? 🔹Some people think that secondary school students should study international news as one of their subjects, while others believe that this is a waste of valuable school time. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people believe that hard work and determination are the main requirements for success in life. Others think that other factors are more significant. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think that it is more effective for students to study in a group while others believe that it is better for them to study independently. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people think a country benefits from a large proportion of young university students, others think sending young people to universities can only lead to graduate unemployment. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹Many men and women are making the decision to have children later in life. Why is this trend occurring? What are the impacts of this development on both family and society? 🔹In more and more countries, people give money on special occasions rather than personally giving gifts. Why is this the case? Is it a positive or negative development?

Writing Task 2 (AC) — February/March 2025 🔹New parents should attend a parenting course to gain better knowledge on how to raise their children. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹The best way to teach children to cooperate is through team sports at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹It is more important to spend public money on promoting a healthy lifestyle in order to prevent illness than to spend it on treatment of people who are already ill. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹It is important to give children opportunities to be independent and make decisions from an early age. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹In many countries, governments and individuals spend too much money on national celebrations such as New Year and religious festivals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Countries should produce the food that their population eats, and import as little as possible. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people believe that young people who commit serious crimes should be punished the same way as adults. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people think that the news has no connection to people's lives so it is a waste of time to read the newspaper and watch television news programmes. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some people believe that detailed descriptions of crimes in newspapers and on television have negative effects, and therefore such information should be restricted in the media. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Some parents think that TV programs help a child’s development. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion? 🔹More and more people are using robots at homes and offices. Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹Some countries invest in specialized sports facilities for top athletes but not for the average people. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹Research shows that increasing numbers of people are now living in mega-cities: cities of more than 20 million inhabitants. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹Many young people's choice of future jobs is based on salary. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹As transport and accommodation problems are increasing in many cities, some governments are encouraging businesses to move to rural areas. Do you think that the advantages outweigh disadvantages? 🔹Some people think that English will be the only language to be spoken globally. What are the advantages and disadvantages to having one language in the world? 🔹Some people prefer to spend their free time with friends of the same age group, while others enjoy socialising with people of all ages. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people believe that an efficient public transport system is the most important factor in the development of a modern city. Others argue that other services should take priority. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think rapid population growth in cities benefits people who live there, while others believe that it has negative impacts. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people think children should go to school at an early age, while others think children should not go to school until they are older. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining. Why do you think this is happening? How can this issue be solved? 🔹In many countries, the cost of using public transport is rising rapidly. What are the causes of this problem? What solutions can be implemented to address it? 🔹Many schoolchildren dislike learning maths. What are the reasons? What are the best ways to make them enjoy maths? 🔹In some societies, sports and entertainment figures are more valued than professionals such as doctors and teachers. Why is this the case? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?

Writing Task 2 (GT) — February/March 2025 🔹Some parents believe that reading books for entertainment is a waste of time for children, and that they should only read educational books. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (GT) 🔹Some people believe that schools should teach children how advertisements influence their purchasing decisions. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (GT) 🔹Some people believe that senior managers should be warm and friendly toward their employees. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (GT) 🔹Some people believe that public transportation should be free and available around the clock in order to reduce traffic congestion in cities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (GT) 🔹Some parents believe that reading books for entertainment is a waste of time for children and that they should only read educational books. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (GT) 🔹Some people believe that hospitals should spend more money on new medical technology, while others argue that those funds should be allocated to doctors and nurses. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (GT) 🔹Some people believe that the most important skill for nurses is strong medical knowledge, while others think that other qualities are more essential. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (GT) 🔹Some people believe that spending a lot of time on social media is a waste of time, while others think it can be useful if used properly. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. (GT)

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — January 2025 🔹 Children learn more from playing freely after school than doing more organised after school activities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think society could benefit more if more people study business than history. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is better to go out for a live performance (a show or concert) than stay at home watching it on TV or using the computer. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people think that space exploration is a waste of resources. It would be better to spend them on improving the lives of people on earth. To what extent you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some argue that schools should prioritize life skills such as working in teams and solving problems instead of traditional academics. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The international community must take immediate action to ensure all countries reduce their usage of fossil fuels. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 In some countries, governments have tried to reduce traffic congestion by introducing a tax on vehicles in city centers in rush hour. Do you think it is a positive or a negative development? 🔹 In some countries the use of bicycles is decreasing as people prefer other means of transport. Why is this happening? What can be done to encourage the public to use bicycles more? 🔹 Doctors are concerned that older adults are not getting enough exercise. What are the causes of this? What can be done to prevent it? 🔹 People who were athletic as children do not engage in physical activity as much as they get older. Why is this happening? What can be done to address this decline? (GT) 🔹 In some countries, bicycles are increasingly replacing cars, while in others, people prefer driving over cycling. What are the reasons behind this trend? Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 An increasing number of people are changing careers during their working life. What do you think are the reasons for this? Do you think this is a positive or negative development for society? 🔹 Nowadays, weddings are getting bigger and expensive. What are the reasons for this? Is it positive or negative development? 🔹 The increasing frequency of satellite launches and space debris is becoming a threat to the Earth. What are the main causes? What measures can be taken to address this? 🔹 In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. What are the consequences of doping for athletes? What measures should be taken to combat this issue? 🔹 The population of many cities is growing rapidly. What are the effects on people living in these cities? What can be done to maintain the quality of life of these people? 🔹 In some countries, the number of children aged 15 and younger is increasing. What are the current and future effects of the ever-increasing population?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — January 2025 🔹 Many people believe that reducing the income gap between the rich and the poor can lead to a happier society. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In many countries, governments and individuals spend too much money on national celebrations such as New Year and religious festivals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 People’s shopping habits depend more on the age group they belong to than other factors. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Publishing detailed information about crimes in newspapers or on television can have dangerous consequences and should therefore be restricted. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 University students often focus on one subject. However, some people think that universities should encourage students to learn a range of other subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say the fashion industry is bad for the environment, as it encourages consumers to buy new clothes all the time. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Nowadays many teenagers have a celebrity who they follow as a role model. Some people think this is not a good idea, because celebrities often set a bad example. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The society would benefit from a ban on all forms of advertising because it serves no useful purpose, and can even be damaging. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people prefer to do same type of work all their lives, while others enjoy changing the work they do. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (GT) 🔹 Some believe that the government should support artists like musicians, painters, and poets, while others argue that this is a misuse of funds. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people argue that parents should have a strong influence on their children’s choice of friends and life partners. Others believe that young people should make these decisions independently. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that government should subsidize fruits and vegetables to make healthy food more affordable. Others argue that government should tax unhealthy food instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the development of technology helps to reduce crime, while other people think that it encourages crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people say that providing access to clean water should be the main focus for international aid organisations. Others say that there are more important uses for international aid. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Differences between countries become less evident each year. Nowadays all over the world, people share the same fashion trends, advertising, brands, eating habits, TV channels. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Today many teenagers rely greatly on technology when learning. Is this a positive or negative development?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — November/December 2024 🔹 Some people believe that professional workers such as doctors and teachers should be paid more than famous athletes or entertainers. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Housing is a basic necessity for everyone. Therefore, government should provide free housing for people who cannot afford to pay for it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The main goal of advertising is to increase the sales of the product which people do not really need. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In order to learn about the way people lived in other places, it’s better to use film and video recordings than written documents. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some experts believe that when a country is already rich, any additional increase in economic wealth does not make its citizens any more satisfied. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that it is a good idea to socialise with work colleagues during evenings and weekends. Other people think it is important to keep working life completely separate from social life. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that museums should be enjoyable places to entertain people, while others believe that the purpose of museums is to educate. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think people can exploit animals for any purpose they need, while others do not think so. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think parents should read or tell stories to children. Others think parents needn’t do that as children can read books or watch TV, movies by themselves. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people feel that manufacturers and supermarkets have the responsibility to reduce the amount of packaging of goods. Others argue that customers should avoid buying goods with a lot of packaging. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that research into family history is useful for the next generations, while others claim that present and future are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that family has the most powerful influence on a child’s development. Others think that external factors such as television, friends, or music play a more important role. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that schools should invest in the best equipment for students, while others think that schools should spend on employing good teachers. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (GT) 🔹 In some countries, individuals under the age of 20 choose to live independently from their parents, whereas in others, they continue to reside with their families. Does living separately at a young age bring more advantages or disadvantages? 🔹 Some educationalists think that international exchange visits will benefit teenagers at the school. To what extent do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In the past, people ate local food in season, but nowadays, people can buy a variety of food from all over the world. Do the advantages of this development outweigh it disadvantages? 🔹 In a lot of countries today, people can buy a wider range of household goods, such as microwaves, televisions, or rice cookers, than ever before. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Every day, the millions of tons of food are wasted all over the world. Why do you think this is happening? And how can we solve this problem? 🔹 In many parts of the world, people now often throw things away when they are broken and buy new ones, whereas in the past broken things were repaired and used again. Why do you think this is the case? What problems may it lead to? 🔹 In many parts of the world, cultures are becoming more and more similar. Why do you think this is happening? Is this a positive or a negative development? (GT) 🔹 Some countries have spent a large amount of money on bicycles. Why has this happened? Is it the best way to solve traffic problems?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — November/December 2024 🔹 Space exploration is much too expensive and the money should be spent on more important things. What is your opinion? 🔹 The older generations tend to have very traditional ideas about how people should live, think and behave. However, some people believe that these ideas are not helpful in preparing younger generations for modern life. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this? 🔹 If some people get a chance to choose between life without work and spending most of the time working, then they would choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The availability of entertainment such as video games on handheld devices is harmful to individuals and to the society they live in. To what extent do you agree and disagree? 🔹 Caring for children is probably the most important job in any society. Because of this, all mothers and fathers should be required to take a course that prepares them to be good parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 🔹 Some people say that large companies should provide sports and social facilities for local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 🔹 Traffic and housing problems in major cities could be solved by moving large companies, factories and their employees to the countryside. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 People should follow the customs and traditions when people start to live in a new country. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the government should fund art lessons for children. Others think that they should be funded by private businesses or by children's families. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that zoos are cruel and should be closed down. Others, however, believe that zoos can be useful in protecting wild animals. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn news. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that a job provides not only an income but also a social life. Other people think that it is better to develop a social life with people you do not work with. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that women should play an equal role as men in a country’s police force or military force, while others think women are not suitable for these kinds of jobs. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think secondary school students should study international news as one of their subjects. Other people say this is a waste of valuable school time. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that good health is very important to every person, so medical service should not be run by profit-making companies. Do the advantages of private health care outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Today, more and more students move to another country for higher education studies. Do you think that the benefits of this outweigh the problems? 🔹 Young people are highly influenced by famous people and they look up to them as role models. Is that a positive or negative development? 🔹 Many criminals commit further crimes as soon as they released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest? 🔹 An increasing number of people choosing to have cosmetic surgery in order to improve their appearance. Why do people have operations to change the way they look? Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Competitiveness is considered a positive quality for people in most societies. How does competitiveness affect individuals? Is it a positive or a negative trend? 🔹 Children can learn many things from watching films or movies. What are some of the different things they can learn? Are these lessons always good for them ? (GT)

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — November 2024 🔹 The values that we learn from our parents and family have a greater influence on our future success than the knowledge and skills we learn at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Education for young people is important in many countries. However some people think that governments should spend more money on education in adult population who can't read and write. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way to make the road transport of goods safer is to ask drivers to take a driving test each year. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that the average age of people having children is increasing these days and that this trend may lead to problems in the future. To what extent do you agree or disagree? (GT) 🔹 Nowadays more tasks at home and work are being performed by robots. Is this a negative or positive development? Some feel that tourism endangers culture while others feel it is beneficial. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Competitiveness is considered a positive quality for people in most societies. How does competitiveness affect individuals? Is it a positive or a negative trend?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — October 2024 🔹 Large companies should pay higher salaries to CEOs and executives compared to other workers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think government should focus on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems to help prevent illness and diseas. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people find advertisements amusing or annoying and they are not influenced by this when they shop. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Countries should produce the food that their population eats, and import as little as possible. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that it is a good idea that older people continue to work if it is possible for them to do. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 There is no need to go out to see live performances (e.g., concerts, shows) because it is better to see them on the TV or computer screen. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 If some people get a chance to choose between life without work in spending most of the time working, then they would choose not to work. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that mobile phones should be banned in public places such as libraries, shops and public transport. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Large international sporting events cause a lot of problems to host countries so it is not worth to hold them. Do you agree or disagree with this? 🔹 Nowadays, many people in cities live in large apartment blocks. Does this kind of accommodation have more advantages or disadvantages? (GT) 🔹 Some people think that the development of technology decreases crime, while other believe it encourages criminal activity. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that governments should spend more money on sports facilities for top athletes, others argue that this money should be spent on sports facilities for ordinary people. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that older employees are more valuable to a company, while others think that younger employees are more beneficial. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (GT) 🔹 Scientists believe that computers will become more intelligent than humans in the future. Some people think this as a positive development, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. (GT) 🔹 Nowadays in many countries household waste e.g. food packaging is increasing day by day. What are the causes for that? How can this problem be solved? 🔹 Today, people in many countries have to spend more and more time far away from their families. Why is this happening and what effects does it have on the people themselves and on their families? 🔹 In some countries, the government provides payments for unemployed people. How does this impact individuals and the government? Do you agree or disagree with this idea? (GT) 🔹 Today, many people do not know their neighbors. Why is this? What can be done about this?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — October 2024 🔹 In some countries, celebrities complain about the way the media publicizes their private lives. Some people say that they should accept it as part of their fame. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Too much emphasis is given for the education of students. More government money should be spent on free time activities for young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some believe that watching the news on TV and reading newspapers is a waste of time because the news has no relevance to people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Schools should focus on academic success and passing examinations. Skill such as cookery, dressmaking and woodwork should not be taught at school as it is better to learn these from family and friends. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Children spend a lot of time watching TV and playing computer games. Some people think it does not develop their mental abilities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that it is more beneficial to take part in sports that are played in teams, like football. But others think taking part in individual sports is better, like tennis or swimming. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the main benefit of international cooperation is in the protection of the environment, while others believe that businesses mainly benefit. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think the parents should be punished instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In the past, people stored knowledge in books. Nowadays, people store knowledge on the internet. Do you think advantages outweigh disadvantages? 🔹 Young people are spending more and more time and money nowadays following fashion trends. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Many offenders commit more crimes after serving their first punishment. Why is this happening, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem? OR 🔹 Some ex-prisoners commit crimes after being released from prison. What do you think is the cause? How can it be solved?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — September 2024 🔹 Employers should give their staff at least a 4-week holiday a year to help employees perform better in their jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Training 65-year-olds people to use computer would be a good use of government money. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 As we are facing more and more problems, which affect the whole planet, good relationships between different countries are becoming more important than ever before. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many young people do not enjoy competitive sports because they are afraid of losing. For that reason, youth sports competitions should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people are becoming seriously overweight. Some people think a solution can be to increase the price of fattening foods. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Everyone should stay at school until 18. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some argue that poor living conditions drive people to commit crimes, while others believe that it is the result of individuals’ bad intentions. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. OR 🔹 Some people think that people commit crime because of poverty and social problems, while others think it is because of their bad nature. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that young people should choose the jobs that they want, but other people think they should be more realistic and think more about their future. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. OR 🔹 Some people think that young people should choose their professions themselves. Others believe that their parents should choose for them. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that studying history is a waste of time while others think it is essential for us to learn history. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Today, more and more students are deciding to move to a different country for higher studies. Do you think that the benefits of this outweigh the problems? 🔹 In the world of the internet, people write product reviews of products and services. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Many students find it difficult to focus or pay attention at schools nowadays. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem? 🔹 Many people aim to achieve a balance between work and other parts of lives, but few people achieve it. What are the causes of the problem? How to overcome it? 🔹 People decide to have their first child when they are older. What are the reasons? Do you think advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — September 2024 🔹 Young people who commit serious crimes should receive the same punishment as adult offenders. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think it is a good thing for senior managers to have much higher salaries than the other workers in a company. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some believe that watching the news on TV and reading newspapers is a waste of time because the news has no relevance to people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that money spent on air travel is a waste of resources and should be better used to help the poor. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 When choosing a job, salary is the most important consideration. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Team activities can teach more skills for life than those activities which are played alone. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 All university students should do voluntary work in their own free time to help the local community. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The only way to improve safety on our roads is to give much stricter punishments for driving offences. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that media (such as newspapers) should be allowed to publish information about the private life of people. Others say that people have a right to privacy and the issue must be controlled or even stopped. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people would say that parents should pay their children for small home duties (cleaning, washing dishes). Other would disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that parents should deal with their children’s poor behaviour, while others believe it is the government’s responsibility to regulate it. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that teenagers should concentrate on all school subjects equally. Others believe that teenagers should focus on the subjects that they are best at or that they find the most interesting. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think young people should follow the traditions of their society. Others think that they should be free to behave as individuals. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that modern technology brings more free time, while others believe it makes people busier. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Many people use social media to keep in touch with other people and news. Do you think the advantages of using social media overweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Recent research suggests that the majority of criminals who are sent to prison commit crimes after they are released. Why is this the case? What can be done to solve this problem? 🔹 One of the major environmental issues today is the littering of public spaces with packaging materials such as plastic wrappers and cardboard boxes. What are the reasons for this? What are some effective ways to reduce litter from packaging materials?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — August 2024 🔹 If a product is good and meets customers’ needs, then people will buy it. So advertising it is unnecessary. To what extent do you agree or disagree? OR 🔹 People buy good products that work, therefore, advertising is unnecessary and is no more than a form of entertainment. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Nowadays governments in many countries spend a lot of money on works of art such as paintings and sculptures to be displayed in public places. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 The tendency of news reports in the media to focus more on problems and emergencies rather than on positive developments is harmful to the individuals and the society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Large companies use sports events to promote their products. Some people think this has a negative impact on sports. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people are becoming seriously overweight. Some people think that the solution to this problem is increasing prices for fattening foods. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Extreme sports such as skydiving and skiing are very dangerous and should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 🔹 The restoration of old buildings in major cities around the world costs enormous amounts of money. This money would be better spent on providing new housing and road development. To what extent do you agree or disagree? OR 🔹 Some people believe that old buildings, such as town halls and art galleries, should be restored, even though this can be costly. Others argue that governments should replace them with new, modern buildings. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that the government should invest in paintings and art for public spaces, while others think this is a waste of public funds. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people prefer playing team sports like football and basketball, while others think that it is better to play individual sports like tennis or swimming. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think history has little or nothing to offer, while others say the study of the past helps us understand the present. Discuss both viewpoints and give your opinion. 🔹 In the past, people stored knowledge in books, but now we store it on the Internet. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In many parts of the world, children are given more freedom than in the past. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 In the world of the internet, people write product reviews of products and services. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 In numerous nations, there is a growing trend for individuals to frequently discuss financial matters, such as their earnings or expenditures, in everyday conversation. What are the reasons behind this phenomenon? Is it advantageous or detrimental? 🔹 Some countries have an ever-increasing proportion of the population who are aged 15 or younger. Why this could be the case? What do you think are the current and future effects of this trend for those countries? 🔹 In many countries not enough students are choosing to study science at university. What are the causes of this? What effects does it have on society?

Writing Task 2 (AC/GT) — August 2024 🔹 Some people say that TV advertisements are helpful for viewers, while others disagree. What is your opinion? 🔹 Art classes, such as painting and drawing, are as important for children’s development as other subjects, so they should be compulsory in high school. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Money spent on space exploration is a waste of resources. It could be better spent on improving people’s lives. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is a natural process for animal species to become extinct (e.g. dinosaurs, dodos, etc.). There is no reason why people should try to prevent this from happening. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that the main aim of advertising is to improve sales of products that people do not really need. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way to teach children to cooperate is through team sports at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many believe that the best way to ensure a happier society is to reduce the difference in income earnings between the rich and poor. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is the responsibility of schools to teach children good behavior in addition to providing formal education. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that employers should not be concerned about the way their employees dress, but the quality of their work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think the increasing business and cultural contact between countries brings many positive effects. Others say it causes the loss of national identities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that children should be taught at school to recycle materials and avoid waste. Other people believe that children should be taught this at home. Discuss both opinions and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people say free time activities for children should be organized by parents. Others say that children should be free to choose what they do in their free time. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think it is a good idea to socialise with work colleagues during evenings and weekends. Other people think it is important to keep working life completely separate from social life. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In many countries it is very easy to apply for and be given credit card. However, this causes some people to have problems with debt they cannot pay back. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays, the development of technology has allowed computers and mobiles to translate language automatically. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 People from young and older generations often work together in the same workplace. Are there more advantages or disadvantages to this? 🔹 More people put their personal information online (e.g., address, telephone number, credit card number) for everyday activities such as socializing on social networks or banking purposes. Do you think it is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Nowadays public transport prices are constantly increasing. Why do you think it is happening? How can this problem be solved? 🔹 In some countries today, people people choose to have their first child at an older age. What are the reasons? Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In many countries nowadays traditional customs are being lost. Why this is happening? How could schools and parents help to keep them alive?

Essay Questions (July) 🔹 Many animals are in danger of extinction. Some people say only animals that are useful to humans should be protected. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 As we are facing more and more problems which affect the whole planet, good relationships between different countries are becoming more important than ever before. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Because many children are not able to learn foreign languages, schools should not force them to learn foreign languages. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Caring for children is probably the most important job in any society. Because of this, all mothers and fathers should be required to take a course that prepares them to be good parents. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 🔹 Governments should be responsible for funding and controlling scientific research rather than private organizations. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Extreme sports such as skydiving and skiing are very dangerous and should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 🔹 Some people believe that entertainers are more important than scientists. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many cities have old public buildings, such as art galleries and public halls, which are expensive to repair. Some people think that the government should replace old public buildings with new ones. Others, however, think that it is important to keep old buildings. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Many people think that zoos are cruel. Others think they are helpful in protecting rare animals. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the government provide free education at every level. However, some say that individuals should pay for their university education. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that it is a good idea to socialise with work colleagues during evenings and weekends. Other people think it is important to keep working life completely separate from social life. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that in the modern world we are more dependent on each other, while others think that people have become more independent. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think parents should control the behaviour of children from a very young age but others think we should give them more freedom. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people say that the increasing business and cultural contact between countries is positive development , while others think that many countries will lose their national identities as a result. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Organised tour to remote areas and community is increasingly popular. Is it a positive or negative development for the local people and the environment? 🔹 Many countries are experiencing population growth and need more homes. Should these new houses be constructed in existing cities or should new towns be built in the countryside? 🔹 Some people participate in extra‐curricular activities such as volunteering in charitable events or joining dance groups to gain more knowledge and experience. Others simply focus on their goals such as academic studies or work. Which do you think helps in improving a person’s knowledge and experience and why?

Essay Questions (July) 🔹 University students should pay the full cost of their studies because university education benefits individuals rather than society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the best way to solve environmental problems is to increase the cost of fuel for cars and other vehicles. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that employers should not care about the way their employees dress, because what matters is the quality of their work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In the modern world, schools are no longer necessary because there is so much information available through the internet that children can study just as well at home. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 People are not happy that governments spend a lot of money on protecting birds and animals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the best way to improve road safety is to increase the minimum legal age for driving a car or motorbike. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that paying taxes is a big enough contribution to society. Others argue that being a citizen involves more responsibilities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that hosting an international sports event is good for the country, while some people think it is bad. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people say that what children watch on TV influences their behaviour while others say the amount of time children spend watching TV influences their behaviour. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think paying taxes is a big enough contribution to their society, while others think people have more responsibilities as members of society than only paying taxes. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that history has no value in the contemporary world. But some believe that we still need history to learn from the past. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that schools should choose students according to their academic abilities, while others think it is better to have students of different abilities studying together. Discuss both views and state your own opinion. 🔹 Nowadays many students go traveling or working for a year after graduating from high school and before starting university. Are there more advantages or disadvantages to this trend? 🔹 Research shows that increasing numbers of people are now living in mega-cities: cities of more than 20 million inhabitants. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Nowadays, more people move away from their families and friends for work. Does this development have more advantages or disadvantages? 🔹 Parents in many countries leave their young children in the care of others while they go to work. Is this a positive or a negative trend? 🔹 In recent, years packaging (carton or plastic) has become a cause of litter in public places. Why is that? What should be done to address this issue?

Essay Questions (June) 🔹 While educating young people is essential, some believe that governments should invest more in educating disadvantaged adults. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Because many children are not able to learn foreign languages, schools should not force them to learn foreign languages. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In recent years, tourists have paid attention to preserving both the culture and the environment of the places they visit. However, some people think that it is impossible to be a responsible tourist. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? 🔹 The best way to make the road transport of goods safer is to ask drivers to take a driving test each year. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 All countires should produce their own food and try to import as little food as possible. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way to make roads safer is to make vehicle drivers take a driving test each year. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Large companies often use sports events to promote their products. Some people think this has a negative impact on sports. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that the academic success of students depends on the quality of their teachers. Others think it depends on the personal commitment and attitude of the students. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think the parents should be punished instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think it is better for one single legal system throughout the world. Other say countries should have their own law. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Health services are a basic necessity. However, private companies have made them quite costly for ordinary individuals. Do the advantages of private health care outweigh its disadvantages? 🔹 Because of growing population in cities, more and more people live in homes with small spaces or no outdoor areas. Do you think it is a negative or positive development? 🔹 For more and more people, wearing fashionable clothes is becoming important. Is this attitude to wearing clothes positive or negative development? 🔹 In many countries, more and more people are competing for a place to study in universities. Why is this happening? Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Nowadays, fewer people are using traditional writing tools like pens, pencils, and brushes compared to the past. Why do you think this is happening? Does this trend have a positive or negative impact on society?