Writing Task 2

H I G H E R S C O R E TOEFL, TOEIC and IELTS classes for serious students

How to Paraphrase Effectively

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Introduction “Paraphrase” is a verb which means to re-write a phrase or sentence with the same meaning but using different words. Paraphrasing is a very important skill for most English tests, including TOEFL iBT, IELTS and TOEIC Speaking and Writing. In TOEFL iBT, for instance, paraphrasing is an important skill in the reading section, in the listening section and, above all, in the speaking and writing sections of the test. Here is a quick example of paraphrasing using a phrase from the paragraph above:

1. "Paraphrasing is a very important skill for most English tests."

2. "For many tests of English, being skilful at paraphrasing is extremely important."

Notice how the paraphrased version (sentence 2) changes some vocabulary (e.g., “extremely” for “very”), changes the word order (e.g., “tests of English” for “English tests”) and changes the grammar (e.g., “being skilful at paraphrasing…” for “Paraphrasing is a very important skill…”) These are the three main ways to paraphrase and by combining all of these methods, you can achieve clear and accurate paraphrased sentences. The next sections will look at these methods in more detail. Paraphrasing Method 1: Use Different Vocabulary wit h the Same Meaning Most students try to use this method, but actually it can be difficult to use. The reason is that although English has many synonyms such as ‘large’ or ‘big’, it is unusual for these words to have exactly the same meaning. So, if you try to use a lot of synonyms when you paraphrase, you might produce sentences that are not natural English. Unnatural sentences are likely to reduce your score more than small mistakes because the reader may not understand what you are trying to say. For example, look at this original sentence and two paraphrased equivalents :

1. "It can be difficult to choose a suitable place to study English."

2. "It is often a challenge to pick up (x) a relevant (x) school to learn English."

3. "It is sometimes hard to select an appropriate place to learn English." For non-native speakers, these three sentences might look like they have the same meaning. For native speakers, however, sentence 2 is unnatural. The first problem is "pick up". This expression does NOT have the same meaning as "choose", so this part of the paraphrased sentence is actually wrong. The second problem is the word "relevant". In some cases, "relevant" and "suitable" are good synonyms but in this example they are not




close in meaning at all. Sentence 3 is a much better paraphrase of sentence 1 because all of the words have the same meaning. The best advice is to follow the “100% rule” for using synonyms: only use a synonym for a word if you are 100% certain that the new word has 100% the same meaning as the original word. If you are less than 100% certain, keep the same word and use either method two or method three to paraphrase your sentence. Paraphrasing Method 2: Change the Order of Words Changing the word order of a phrase or sentence is usually safer than using synonyms because the words are the same, so the meaning must be the same. However, it is not always easy to decide which words to move or to decide to which position the words should be moved Also, when you move a word you might need to change some other words, add some other words or cut some other words to ensure that the new sentence is grammatically correct. Here are two suggestions for how to change the word order without making errors: a. If the original sentence has two or more clauses, change the order of the clauses .

1. "If they have some help, most people can paraphrase effectively. However, practice is important because paraphrasing is difficult."

2. "Most people can paraphrase effectively, if they have some help. Paraphrasing is difficult,

however, so practice is important." b. If the original sentence has an adjective and noun, change the adjective into a relative clause.

1. "Writing essays can be a challenging task."

2. "Writing essays can be a task which is challenging."

Paraphrasing Method 3: Use Different Grammar It sounds very difficult to use different grammar, but actually it is easier than changing vocabulary. In addition, if you change the grammar and make an error, usually the reader will understand what you mean. However, if you change the vocabulary and make an error, often the reader will not understand what you mean. So, although changing the grammar has some advantages, it is still not easy and you should practice it as often as possible. Here are two suggestions for how to change the grammar without making errors:




a. Change some of the words in the original sentence into different parts of speech (you will often need to change the word order and some other words, too).

1. "The most effective way to build your English skill is to study regularly."

2. "The most effective way of building your English skill is to do studying on a regular basis."

b. If the original sentence is in the active voice, change it to passive or vice versa .

1. "To improve English, you should learn new vocabulary on a daily basis."

2. "To improve English, new vocabulary should be learned on a daily basis"

Further Practice By using the methods and ideas given in this article, you should be able to improve your paraphrasing skill. In tests like IELTS and TOEFL iBT you will often need to paraphrase quickly, so you need to practice regularly if you are going to get better and faster. Start by practicing each method individually and then begin combining the methods until you are comfortable at using all three of them. If you want to see more examples of paraphrasing, one of the best ideas is to compare two news articles about a current event in two different newspapers. The stories will contain most of the same details, but the sentences will be different. By comparing the sentences and paragraphs you will get more ideas about how to paraphrase and see some real examples. Newspaper websites are often a good place to see two different articles without paying for two different newspapers.




Useful Words The following list defines some of the difficult words used in this article. A synonym is a word or phrase that has almost the same meaning as another word or phrase. For example, 'smart', 'clever' and 'intelligent' are all synonyms because they have almost the same meaning. If two things are equivalent , they are equal or almost equal to each other although they might be in different places. For example, the British 'prime minister' is equivalent to the United States 'president' because both the 'prime minister' and 'president' are the most powerful politicians in their country. If somebody ensures something, the person makes sure that something is correct or true or OK. For example, if I am going on a trip, I will check my pocket to ensure that I have my passport. A clause is a grammar word that describes part of a sentence that contains a subject and a verb. Most clauses also contain an object or subject complement. Some clauses are 'reduced' which means that subject (and sometimes the auxiliary verb) are omitted. The phrase part of speech is used to describe the different types of words that are used in English. For example, 'noun', 'verb', 'adjective' and 'adverb' are four common parts of speech. The expression (and/or) vice versa is used to indicate that the opposite of something which was just mentioned is also true. For example, 'If the book is on the shelf, put it in the box and vice versa' means 'If the book is on the shelf, put it in the box and if the book is in the box, put it on the shelf.' This article is provided as a free service to all t est preparation students by Higher Score, Canada’s number one test preparation centre. Students are welcome to send copies of this article to other students who are taking a test. However, this article may not be dis tributed in any other way without the express written consent of Higher Score .

PARAPHRASE EXERCISE

Original passage:

Statements that seem complimentary in one context may be inappropriate in

another. For example, women in business are usually uncomfortable if male colleagues or

superiors compliment them on their appearance: the comments suggest that the women

are being treated as visual decoration rather than as contributing workers.

Paraphrase:

Paraphrase A:

Words or expressions which appear favorable in one situation might be improper in a

different situation. For instance, employed females are often uneasy when they are given

positive comments on their looks. These remarks imply that the females are being viewed

as adornment instead of as productive employees (Locker, 2003).

[Although this paraphrase does a good job of changing the wording, it is not effective for

two main reasons. First, it follows the sentence structure of the original passage too

closely. Second, it fails to mention anything about "male colleagues or superiors." It also

follows the same order or structure of ideas.]

Paraphrase B:

Some statements may be inappropriate in one context, even though they are

complimentary in another. Compliments by male colleagues or superiors regarding a

female coworker’s appearance, for example, often make the woman feel uncomfortable.

Instead of treating the women as contributing workers, men obviously think of them as

visual decoration (Locker, 2003).

[While this paraphrase does a better job of changing the sentence structure, it also is

ineffective. It uses too many of the words from the original passage. Further, it changes

the meaning when it declares that "men obviously think of them as visual decoration." It

also follows the same order or structure of ideas]

Paraphrase C:

Women may feel uneasy upon receiving ordinarily positive comments on their

appearance from male coworkers or supervisors. To these women, the remarks carry an

implied meaning: instead of being thought of as productive employees, they are actually

being viewed as just a pretty part of the atmosphere. Depending on the situation, words or

expressions which appear favorable may actually be unsuitable in a conversation (Locker,

2003).

[This paraphrase is the most effective. In addition to changing both the wording and

sentence structure, it includes all points and retains the meaning of the original passage. It

also changes the order of ideas]

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY

1. Introduction:

- General background

General statement

Paraphrase the topic

- Summary main ideas *

- Thesis statement: agree or disagree? **

2. Body

- Body 1: short paragraph starts with an opposing view then refute it

Useful structure: Some may argue that [state the counter idea]. In spite of/Despite

this, [refute the counter idea; emphasize the importance of the main idea]

- Body 2 & body 3: Points to support main idea

Structure:

Topic sentence

Fact or factual example

Interpretation

(Conclusion)

3. Conclusion:

- Paraphrase thesis statement **

- Paraphrase summary of main idea *

- Suggestions/ recommendations/ predictions

Sample topic

Schools and libraries should ban computer games from their premises to stop students

from wasting time. What is your opinion?

Free health care should be available to all citizens of a country. Do you agree or

disagree?

*Note: Opinion essay = Argument essay

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY 1

Free health care should be available to all citizens of a country. Do you agree or

disagree?

Providing sufficient health care for all inhabitants in a country is always of great

importance. It is acknowledged that, however, free medical treatment should be given to

certain social class, saying, the poor, since the government’s budget is not always

redundant. Thus, the idea that medical caring should be provided freely for all dwellers

cannot be supported.

Some may argue that it is unfair while not treating people in similar way. Despite

this, the rich seem to prefer new and expensive treatment methods rather than those

provided by the government.

By contrast, the poor usually need to lean heavily on free health care. It is believed

that poor citizens are those who cannot earn enough money for their living. Obviously,

without sufficient financial support to meet various daily demands, those inhabitants

cannot afford medical treatment when they get sick. For this reason, it is crucial that the

poor have free access to medical caring.

In addition, government’s budget should be allocated to necessary tasks only. This

is due to the fact that national budget has to provide financial support for a variety of

areas such as economy, society, culture… Therefore, supplying free health care to all

citizens is not reasonable, as the rich often do not depend on such social welfare.

In conclusion, medical treatment should not be provided freely to all dwellers in a

nation. Since the government’s budget is limited, those priorities should be given to the

poor only. Therefore, authorities need to pay more attention to taking care of lower

classes in society.

(257 words)

ARGUMENTATIVE ESSAY 2

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?

Deforestation has long been a problem in many countries all over the world. It is

acknowledged that not only does such action lead to various catastrophes, but it also does

harm to the habitats of both animal and botany. Thus, it is undeniable that the current

global death is largely attributed to the destruction of forests.

Some may argue that deforestation is beneficial since it enlarges the area of land

utilized for economic activities. In spite of this, the hazard caused by destroying forests

should never be undervalued.

Many people are of the opinion that the destruction of forests usually results in an

array of natural disasters. In fact, it has been proven that the dense forests can effectively

reduce the speed and the power of floods, which often cause thousands of death every

year. Hence, if trees are cut down excessively and frequently, many sufferers will lose

accommodations or even lives because of sudden disasters.

In addition, deforestation normally endangers the habitats of plentiful creatures.

Take herbivores, for example, who may not find sufficient and adequate food for their

survival due to excessive exploitation of forests. Consequently, this continuous chain

leads to the extinction of many other precious creatures. Thus, it is obvious that

deforestation has been a nuisance to the existence of both botany and animal.

In conclusion, forest destruction has made the world die gradually. It can bring

about both catastrophe and extinction of many creatures. Therefore, it is necessary that

forest conservation programs be conducted to save our green planet.

(254 words)

LANGUAGE OF CAUSE AND EFFECT

I. Linking words within one sentence

Pattern A

Cause Effect

Pattern B

Effect Cause

National economies are much more integrated

due to

because of

as a result of

on account of

arising from

as a consequence of

resulting from

globalization

A communications revolution is being caused by technological development.

The cause of

The reason for The communications revolution has been technological development.

As

Since

Because

Technology has developed, there has been a communications revolution

The consequence

The effect

The result

Of technological development has been a communication

revolution.

Globalization

has led to

has resulted in

has brought about

has meant

The integration of national economies

(that) national economies are integrated

II. Linking words between two sentences

Cause Effect

National economies as

become more integrated.

Therefore,

Consequently,

As a result,

As a consequence,

Because of this,

Thus,

For this reason,

Hence,

Accordingly,

They can trade more

easily.

III. Examples

1. Sometimes one cause has many effects

A cold winter brings about serious problem in Florida farms. The farmers there

grow a lot of orange. Very cold weather can cause orange trees to die. Cold weather also

results in fewer tourists. There are many hotels and vacation places in Florida. These

places are in trouble if there are fewer tourists. Finally, very cold weather may lead to

health problems. Many people do not have heating in their homes, so they become ill

from the cold.

2. Sometimes one effects has many causes

There are many different causes for car accidents in the United States. Sometimes

accidents are caused by bad weather. Ice or snow can make road dangerous. Accidents

also result from problems with the car. Even a small problem like a flat tire can be

serious. Bad roads are another cause of accidents. Some accidents happen because the

driver falls asleep. Finally, some accidents occur as a result of drinking too much

alcohol. In fact this is one of the most important causes of accidents.

IV. Exercises

1. Look at the table which follows and then complete the paragraph

Accident in a large Australia city in 1998

Main accident causes No. of

accidents

% increase or

decrease compared

with 1997

1 Drivers turning right without due care 593 +12

2 402 +7

3 Drivers failing to give signals 231 -3

4 Drivers losing control of vehicle 312 +40

5 Drivers improperly overtaking other

vehicles

173 -10

6 Drivers misjudging distances 96 -20

(1)Firstly, turning right without due care led to 593 accidents in 1998.

(2)………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………

…...........................................................................................................................

(3) Next, although there was a 3% decrease in drivers failing to give signals,

there were still 231 accidents owing to this.

(4)………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………...

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

(5)………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………...

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

(6)………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………

…………………………………………………………………………………

2. Using language of cause and effect, write a paragraph (4-5 sentences) to prove

the following topic sentence:

“Overpopulation in many countries has led to an increase in poverty”

3. Using language of cause and effect, write 8- 10 sentences explaining the causes

and effects of one of the following problems.

EDUCATION

High school dropouts

ENVIRONMENT

Global warming

FAMILY

Divorce

HEALTH

Obesity

TECHNOLOGY

Overuse of internet

Causes (why?)

· need to make

money

(get a job)

· find subjects too

difficult or boring

· can’t afford school

fees

· want to get married

· family problems

Causes (why?)

· overpopulation

(more cars and use

of resources)

· more industries

(factories)

· burning of fossil

fuels

· deforestation

·modern/changing

lifestyle

· hole in the ozone

layer

Causes (why?)

· communication

problems

· family problems

(e.g. with father or

mother in-law)

· lack of money

· having no children

· spousal abuse

· one partner is

cheating

· partners get bored

with each other

Causes (why?)

· change in life style

(sedentary, lack of

exercise)

· poor diet (e.g. fast

food or eating too

much)

· feeling you must

eat everything on

your plate or at a

certain time even if

you are not hungry

· hereditary factors

(parents also obese)

or certain illnesses

Causes (why?)

· addiction

· a lot of free time

· entertainment (eg

chat lines are

appealing)

· informative (many

subjects available)

· internet use may be

required for school

courses

· easy

communication

method (way to

connect with friends)

· lack of a daily

routine or schedule

· easily available

Effects (what?)

· uneducated society

· negative impact on

the economy

· can’t cope with

new technology

· classifies people in

the community into

different social levels

· low self-esteem for

dropouts

· creates more family

problems (vicious

circle – cause

becomes effect and

becomes a

cause again)

Effects (what?)

· loss of

biodiversity

(variety in animal

life)

· climate change

· sea levels rise

· air and water

pollution

· less oxygen in

air

· acid rain

Effects (what?)

· broken hearts and

broken homes

· nobody is

responsible

for the children

· children may

become

violent or depressed

· economic – man

may pay alimony to

his ex-wife

· it may be difficult

for someone to

remarry

Effects (what?)

· poor health (high

blood pressure,

heart

disease, diabetes

· lower self-esteem

· difficult to find

clothes that fit

· limited

employment

(hard to get a job)

· economic

(hospitals need

more money and

overweight person

pays a lot for special

diets)

· difficult to get

married

Effects (what?)

· waste time

· become more

careless and

inattentive, lose

ability to be

independent

· health problems

(obesity, eye

problems, back pain,

RSI)

· become antisocial

· learn bad things

from certain websites

or chatting with bad

people

· computer (viruses)

MODEL ANSWER: Using language of cause and effect

Ex1

(1)Firstly, turning right without due care led to 593 accidents in 1998. (2) Secondly,

since pedestrians crossed roads carelessly, 402 accidents occurred. (3) Next, although

there was a 3% decrease in drivers failing to give signals, there were still 231 accidents

owing to this. (4) In 1998, 40% more drivers than in 1997 lost control of vehicles. As a

result, there were 312 accidents. (5) In fifth place came drivers improperly overtaking

vehicles: these brought about 173 accidents. (6) Finally, there was a 20% fall in drivers

misjudging distances; however, they are still the cause of 96 accidents.

Ex 2

Overpopulation in many countries has led to an increase in poverty. Since the population

keeps rising, the unemployment rate picks up as well. As a result, many employees have

to accept a low-wage job; otherwise, they will be out of work. For this reason, the poor

may become even poorer, which leads to a higher rate of poverty.

CAUTIOUS LANGUAGE

It is important that the language used in academic writing reflects the strength of

evidence available to support an idea or claim. Whether you say “The working-age

population will fall”, “The working-age population will probably fall” or “The working-

age population may fall” will depend on the projections available to you at the time of

writing, and your interpretation of those projections. The less certain you are about your

claims, the more tentative the language should be. The use of cautious language in

academic writing is known as ‘hedging’.

I. Types of cautious language

1. Cautious words showing certainty/commitment

Degree of certainty/commitment Verb Adverb

Complete Is(not)

Will(not)

Must(not)

Certainly

Definitely

Clearly

Obviously

Actually

Partial Can/cannot

Could(not)

Should(not)

May(not)

Might(not)

Probably

(to be) likely/unlikely to…

Possibly

Perhaps

Presumably

2. Adverb of frequency

Globalization is usually

frequently

often

sometimes

an effective means of stimulating economic growth.

3. Useful structures

Certain Less certain (cautious)

It is believed/acknowledged that…

It is clear/obvious/undeniable that…

It appears/ seems that…

It is likely/ unlikely that….

II. EXERCISE: Rewrite the following sentences ho make them more cautious

1. Multinationals cause damage to the environment when they set up factories in

developing countries.

2. Globalization leads to the exploitation of workers in developing countries.

3. The increase in world poverty is a result of the linearization of trade and

investment.

4. Periods of substantial economic growth are always accompanied by a reduction in

poverty.

5. Multinationals are harsh employers and force workers to spend long hours

working in poor conditions.

6. Car accidents happen because of ice and snow on the road.

7. Doctor tell us that smoking cigarettes lead to cancer.

8. Globalization has widen the gap between the rich and the poor, both among and

within countries.

9. Heart decease is the result of eating too much.

10. Reading for pleasure results in larger vocabulary.

11. Free trade disrupts the economy of countries.

12. Multinationals impose higher standards in the overseas production plants than

those in local markets.

STEPS TO WRITE A BODY PARAGRAPH

I- Facts, opinions, and interpretation

Structure:

TS (opinion)

Fact or Factual example

Interpretation

Writers use both facts and opinions to support their position or argument. They state their

opinion and then back it up with facts. The difference between facts and opinions is

shown below:

Fact: a truth that a scientifically proven or generally accepted, e.g. antibiotics cure

infections.

Opinion: one point of view among many, e.g. antibiotics is the most important invention

of the twentieth century.

Interpretation: Link the fact with the opinion

Example 1:

Opinion: The Internet takes too much time away from family life.

Fact: The average adult in the United States spends six hours per weeks on the

Internet.

Interpretation: Those six hours could be spent doing family activities, such as

gardening, helping children with homework, or playing games.

Example 2:

Opinion: Careful planning is important in the development of infrastructure. (Example)

Fact: For example, all cities need efficient water delivery services and hygienic sewage

disposal systems.

Interpretation: Planning can ensure that when services are built they formed an integrated

and efficient system.

Example 3:

Opinion: Animals use language to communicate with each other.

Fact: Arctic wolves, for example, communicate the presence of caribou through

their howls and barks. Other wolves hear the messages and are able to meet their

pack to join the hunt.

Interpretation: Clearly, if another animal can understand vocalized messages that

tell him or her the location of food, then that animal is using language.

EXERCISE

Read each opinion and fact below. Then write a sentence interpreting the fact to

support the opinion.

1. Opinion: The government is doing an excellent job of protecting athletes from the

pressure to use performance-enhancing drugs.

Fact: Athletes are routinely tested for drug use.

Interpretation:

2. Opinion: Employers place too much emphasis on personal appearance.

Fact: According to a recent study, people with average appearance earn three to

eight percent less money than those who are considered beautiful.

Interpretation:

3. Opinion: The cellphone industry is a good place to invest money.

Fact: One out of every six people owns a cell phone.

Interpretation:

4. Opinion: People spend too much money on food.

Fact: Americans eat meals outside the home an average of five times per week.

Interpretation:

5. Opinion: People in the United States love pets.

Fact: Americans spend 5.4 million dollars each year on pets.

Interpretation:

II- Other structures:

1.

Take an idea and turn it into a statement.

- Expand the statement into a topic sentence.

- Write supporting sentences to follow the topic sentence.

- Now develop the supporting sentences using an example or further

explanation.

(TS) There are several reasons why overseas students come to Australia to do further

study. (SS1) Firstly, they may come simply because their parents want them to study in

an English-speaking country. (DS1) Australia is a popular choice since it is fairly close to

South-East Asia, and it is generally considered a safe place for young people to live and

study. (SS2) Secondly, in some countries, entrance examinations for the best universities

are very competitive, and students can experience difficulty gaining entry to the

university of their choice. (DS2.1) When faced with such difficulties in their home

countries, students choose to study in Australia, where the entry criteria are the same for

all universities. (SS3) A third and probably the most important reason is related to the

range of courses available. (DS3.1) Many overseas students in Australia elect to study

subjects which may be not available in their home countries. (DS3.2) An example is

tourism, which is very popular among overseas students studying in Australia.

2.

- TS

- Supporting sentences (definitions, explanations, examples)

- CS

(TS) Young people are too dependent on computers. (Supporting definition)

Dependency on computers means that young people can’t perform the normal tasks and

functions of daily life without them. (Supporting explanation) In the old days, people

memorized important information, but today’s youth rely on their computers, cell phones,

and PDA’s to do assignments, record numbers, and save important information. As a

result, they can find themselves unprepared in an emergency such as an electrical

blackout. Once their batteries die, these people will not be able to communicate.

(Supporting example) For example, I do all my schoolwork on my computer. When my

computer crashed last week, I lost my only draft of an essay that was due the next day. As

a result, I got a bad grade.

WRITING INTERPRETATION: SUGGESTED ANSWER

1. Obviously, this prevents athletes from utilizing drug because they are afraid of being

considered as cheated.

2. Clearly, if employers are not concerned about appearance, employees with a

normal one will spend less money to enhance their beauty.

3. Obviously, this means that roughly 17% of people spend money buying mobile

phones annually, which show these handheld devices are considered worth purchasing.

4. Clearly, eating out frequently charge them a larger amount of money in

comparison with eating at home.

5. Clearly, if Americans do not have strong passion for pets, they will spend such a

large amount of money on other entertaining activities such as travelling or gambling.

DISCUSSION ESSAY

1. Introduction:


- Paraphrase the view

- Preview: In this essay both sides of this issue/ debate will be examined/

investigated/ analyzed.

2. Body

- Body 1: Main idea 1(weaker side)

Structure:

Topic sentence


Interpretation

(Consequences/ Results)

Conclusion: Thus, it is clear why some people gravitate towards this point

of view.

- Body 2: Main idea 2 (Stronger side) - Similar to body 1’s structure

# Conclusion: After analyzing these facts, it is obvious why many support this

claim.

2. Conclusion

- Restate both sides (summary)

- Give your opinion


Sample topic

“The wealth of the United Arab Emirates has historically come from the oil deposits in

Abu Dhabi (the capital of UAE). If Abu Dhabi runs out of oil, The UAE’s economy will

collapse.” Discuss this statement.

DISCUSSION ESSAY

“The wealth of the United Arab Emirates has historically come from the oil

deposits in Abu Dhabi (the capital of UAE). If Abu Dhabi runs out of oil, The UAE’s

economy will collapse.”

Discuss this statement.

Traditionally, the UAE’s economy has been completely reliant on oil. Within the

past 15 years, however, its economy has diversified. Some believe that the UAE economy

will collapse if Abu Dhabi runs out of oil and some refute this. In this essay both sides of

this debate will be analyzed.

It is believed by some that if Abu Dhabi runs out of oil, the UAE will fall apart.

An idea that support this is the historical fact that the UAE economy has been almost

completely dependent on its capital of oil reserves. It can be argued that this history will

remain true and the economy of UAE will deteriorate without the source of oils from Abu

Dhabi in the future. Thus, it is clear why some people gravitate towards this point of

view.

On the other hand, many argue that Abu Dhabi’s oil reserves are not the only

industry upholding the UAE’s economy. For example, industries such as tourism and

construction have gained a very strong foothold in the Emigrates’ economy over the past

15 years. Thus, these industries can be expected to support the UAE economy even in the

absence of oil. After analyzing these facts, it is obvious why many support this claim.

For reasons related to history and recent developments, the issue of economic

stability in the UAE without the support of Abu Dhabi’s oil is supported and refuted by

many. However, after analyzing the two points of view, it is clear that the historical

conditions in the UAE have changed. Thus, the argument that the UAE’s economy would

collapse if Abu Dhabi’s oils runs out is expected to never be realized.

(275 words)

EXPLANATION ESSAY 1- ONE TASK QUESTION

1.Introduction



- Preview: These will be examined/analyzed in this essay

2. Body

Body 1 & body 2: Points to support main idea

Structure:

Topic sentence


Interpretation

(Results/ Consequences)

(Conclusion)

3.Conclusion:

- Restate problem: causes,effects,solutions…etc – listing


Sample topic

Many businesses find it very difficult to assign enough time and resources to research and

development. What could a government do to encourage more company spending in

this area?

Many businesses find it very difficult to assign enough time and resources to

research and development. What could a government do to encourage more

company spending in this area?

Research and development is very expensive and companies often try to avoid

spending in this area. Government could encourage work in research and development by

offering tax advantages and rewards for excellent research. These incentives will be

analyzed in this essay.

The first motivation is to reduce tax rate so that enterprises can be more profitable

to support research and development. In fact, governments in some countries impose such

high tax brackets that many companies earn little income. Vietnamese importers, for

example, have to bear tax rate from 150% to 200% for luxurious commodities such as

cars and mobile phones. Obviously, due to this high tax burden, a great deal of

corporations may not afford such expensive activities as research and development.

Therefore, tax reduction is necessary.

In addition, special rewards should be provided for both organizations and

individuals with brilliant ideas. The rewards, for instance, can be either financial support

or certificate of competence. Those incentives will encourage the staff of the companies

to conduct research and development, since they increase the possibility of being

recognized by the public, which may bring about higher revenue. Clearly, if enterprises

can earn more money, research and development is worth being carried out.

In conclusion, to provoke spending in research and development, governments

should change the current tax brackets and give rewards to competent findings. These

solutions prove effective in increasing profit, thus provide more financial support for this

area. Therefore, it is necessary that authorities propose this policy in the near future.

(251 words)

EXPLANATION ESSAY 2- MORE THAN ONE TASK QUESTION

1. Introduction




2. Body (3 paragraphs recommended)

General structure: (i) cause1/effect1-solution1

(ii) cause2/effect2-solution2

(iii) cause3/effect3-solution3

Detail:

Topic sentence: state the cause/ effect


Interpretation

Solution

3.Conclusion

- Restate problem: causes,effects,solutions…etc – listing


Sample topic

A large number of deaths are caused by road accidents. Why do so many road accidents

occur? Make some recommendations that would help to reduce the number of road

accidents. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your

knowledge and experience.

EXPLANATION ESSAY 2

A large number of deaths are caused by road accidents. Why do so many

road accidents occur? Make some recommendations that would help to reduce the

number of road accidents. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant

examples from your knowledge and experience.

Road accidents are responsible for the deaths of an ever-increasing number of

people. Before solutions to this problem can be found, it is necessary to examine the main

causes of accidents: vehicle roadworthiness, road conditions and human error. These will

be analyzed in this essay.

Many accidents are caused by inadequate vehicle maintenance. For example,

driving with defective brakes or bald tires which increase the stopping time. Obviously,

when stopping interval is lengthened, accidents are more likely to happen in emergency

cases. Regular mechanical inspections would help reduce the number of unworthy

vehicles on roads.

Road conditions also contribute to accidents. It can’t be denied that accidents

usually happen on certain roads which are not only situated at dangerous turns but also in

bad quality. Obviously, there is high probability of crashes on roads around the mountain

due to limit of vision as well as its slope. Thus, putting more warning signs about hazard

at those turning places is of great importance.

The third cause of accidents is driver error. This can be supported by the fact that

many accidents are caused by drunken drivers. They normally injure themselves or

collide into others due to careless driving. Therefore, more police should be available on

roads to examine the alcoholic level of drivers.

In conclusion, accidents caused by inadequate vehicle maintenance, conditions of

roads and driver error can be avoided by such solutions as frequent mechanical

inspections, putting warning signs and regular appearance of police. In addition, to

minimize the number of road tolls, it is essential that the drivers themselves always be

conscious and stay alert. (266 words)

Vocabulary:

- Roadworthiness: Sự thích hợp chạy trên một đường công cộng (của một

chiếc xe)

- Road toll: so nguoi bi tai nan xe co

SPECIFIC QUESTIONS ESSAY

1. Introduction




2. Body

Note: Any type of paragraph’s structure can be used.

Most effective structure:

Topic sentence


Interpretation

(Results/ Consequences)

(Conclusion)

3.Conclusion

- Restate problem/Summary


Sample topic:

1. Nowadays food has become easier to prepare. Has this change improved the way

people live?

You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.

2. It has been said, “Not everything that is learned is contained in books.” Compare and

contrast knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books.

In your opinion, which source is more important? Why?

INDEX I-SYNONYMS FOR WORDS COMMONLY USED IN STUDENT'S WRITINGS

Amazing- incredible, unbelievable, improbable, fabulous, wonderful, fantastic, astonishing,

astounding, extraordinary

Anger- enrage, infuriate, arouse, nettle, exasperate, inflame, madden

Angry- mad, furious, enraged, excited, wrathful, indignant, exasperated, aroused, inflamed

Answer- reply, respond, retort, acknowledge

Ask- question, inquire of, seek information from, put a question to, demand, request, expect,

inquire, query, interrogate, examine, quiz

Awful- dreadful, terrible, abominable, bad, poor, unpleasant

Bad- evil, immoral, wicked, corrupt, sinful, depraved, rotten, contaminated, spoiled, tainted,

harmful, injurious, unfavorable, defective, inferior, imperfect, substandard, faulty, improper,

inappropriate, unsuitable, disagreeable, unpleasant, cross, nasty, unfriendly, irascible, horrible,

atrocious, outrageous, scandalous, infamous, wrong, noxious, sinister, putrid, snide, deplorable,

dismal, gross, heinous, nefarious, base, obnoxious, detestable, despicable, contemptible, foul,

rank, ghastly, execrable

Beautiful - pretty, lovely, handsome, attractive, gorgeous, dazzling, splendid, magnificent,

comely, fair, ravishing, graceful, elegant, fine, exquisite, aesthetic, pleasing, shapely, delicate,

stunning, glorious, heavenly, resplendent, radiant, glowing, blooming, sparkling

Begin - start, open, launch, initiate, commence, inaugurate, originate

Big - enormous, huge, immense, gigantic, vast, colossal, gargantuan, large, sizable, grand, great,

tall, substantial, mammoth, astronomical, ample, broad, expansive, spacious, stout, tremendous,

titanic, mountainous

Brave - courageous, fearless, dauntless, intrepid, plucky, daring, heroic, valorous, audacious,

bold, gallant, valiant, doughty, mettlesome

Break - fracture, rupture, shatter, smash, wreck, crash, demolish, atomize

Bright - shining, shiny, gleaming, brilliant, sparkling, shimmering, radiant, vivid, colorful,

lustrous, luminous, incandescent, intelligent, knowing, quick-witted, smart, intellectual

Calm - quiet, peaceful, still, tranquil, mild, serene, smooth, composed, collected, unruffled,

level-headed, unexcited, detached, aloof

Come - approach, advance, near, arrive, reach

Cool - chilly, cold, frosty, wintry, icy, frigid

Crooked - bent, twisted, curved, hooked, zigzag

Cry - shout, yell, yowl, scream, roar, bellow, weep, wail, sob, bawl

Cut - gash, slash, prick, nick, sever, slice, carve, cleave, slit, chop, crop, lop, reduce

Dangerous - perilous, hazardous, risky, uncertain, unsafe

Dark - shadowy, unlit, murky, gloomy, dim, dusky, shaded, sunless, black, dismal, sad

Decide - determine, settle, choose, resolve

Definite - certain, sure, positive, determined, clear, distinct, obvious

Delicious - savory, delectable, appetizing, luscious, scrumptious, palatable, delightful, enjoyable,

toothsome, exquisite

Describe - portray, characterize, picture, narrate, relate, recount, represent, report, record

Destroy - ruin, demolish, raze, waste, kill, slay, end, extinguish

Difference - disagreement, inequity, contrast, dissimilarity, incompatibility

Do - execute, enact, carry out, finish, conclude, effect, accomplish, achieve, attain

Dull - boring, tiring,, tiresome, uninteresting, slow, dumb, stupid, unimaginative, lifeless, dead,

insensible, tedious, wearisome, listless, expressionless, plain, monotonous, humdrum, dreary

Eager - keen, fervent, enthusiastic, involved, interested, alive to

End - stop, finish, terminate, conclude, close, halt, cessation, discontinuance

Enjoy - appreciate, delight in, be pleased, indulge in, luxuriate in, bask in, relish, devour, savor,

like

Explain - elaborate, clarify, define, interpret, justify, account for

Fair - just, impartial, unbiased, objective, unprejudiced, honest

Fall - drop, descend, plunge, topple, tumble

False - fake, fraudulent, counterfeit, spurious, untrue, unfounded, erroneous, deceptive,

groundless, fallacious

Famous - well-known, renowned, celebrated, famed, eminent, illustrious, distinguished, noted,

notorious

Fast - quick, rapid, speedy, fleet, hasty, snappy, mercurial, swiftly, rapidly, quickly, snappily,

speedily, lickety-split, posthaste, hastily, expeditiously, like a flash

Fat - stout, corpulent, fleshy, beefy, paunchy, plump, full, rotund, tubby, pudgy, chubby,

chunky, burly, bulky, elephantine

Fear - fright, dread, terror, alarm, dismay, anxiety, scare, awe, horror, panic, apprehension

Fly - soar, hover, flit, wing, flee, waft, glide, coast, skim, sail, cruise

Funny - humorous, amusing, droll, comic, comical, laughable, silly

Get - acquire, obtain, secure, procure, gain, fetch, find, score, accumulate, win, earn, rep, catch,

net, bag, derive, collect, gather, glean, pick up, accept, come by, regain, salvage

Go - recede, depart, fade, disappear, move, travel, proceed

Good - excellent, fine, superior, wonderful, marvelous, qualified, suited, suitable, apt, proper,

capable, generous, kindly, friendly, gracious, obliging, pleasant, agreeable, pleasurable,

satisfactory, well-behaved, obedient, honorable, reliable, trustworthy, safe, favorable, profitable,

advantageous, righteous, expedient, helpful, valid, genuine, ample, salubrious, estimable,

beneficial, splendid, great, noble, worthy, first-rate, top-notch, grand, sterling, superb,

respectable, edifying

Great - noteworthy, worthy, distinguished, remarkable, grand, considerable, powerful, much,

mighty

Gross - improper, rude, coarse, indecent, crude, vulgar, outrageous, extreme, grievous, shameful,

uncouth, obscene, low

Happy - pleased, contented, satisfied, delighted, elated, joyful, cheerful, ecstatic, jubilant, gay,

tickled, gratified, glad, blissful, overjoyed

Hate - despise, loathe, detest, abhor, disfavor, dislike, disapprove, abominate

Have - hold, possess, own, contain, acquire, gain, maintain, believe, bear, beget, occupy, absorb,

fill, enjoy

Help - aid, assist, support, encourage, back, wait on, attend, serve, relieve, succor, benefit,

befriend, abet

Hide - conceal, cover, mask, cloak, camouflage, screen, shroud, veil

Hurry - rush, run, speed, race, hasten, urge, accelerate, bustle

Hurt - damage, harm, injure, wound, distress, afflict, pain

Idea - thought, concept, conception, notion, understanding, opinion, plan, view, belief

Important - necessary, vital, critical, indispensable, valuable, essential, significant, primary,

principal, considerable, famous, distinguished, notable, well-known

Interesting - fascinating, engaging, sharp, keen, bright, intelligent, animated, spirited, attractive,

inviting, intriguing, provocative, though-provoking, challenging, inspiring, involving, moving,

titillating, tantalizing, exciting, entertaining, piquant, lively, racy, spicy, engrossing, absorbing,

consuming, gripping, arresting, enthralling, spellbinding, curious, captivating, enchanting,

bewitching, appealing

Keep - hold, retain, withhold, preserve, maintain, sustain, support

Kill - slay, execute, assassinate, murder, destroy, cancel, abolish

Lazy - indolent, slothful, idle, inactive, sluggish

Little - tiny, small, diminutive, shrimp, runt, miniature, puny, exiguous, dinky, cramped, limited,

itsy-bitsy, microscopic, slight, petite, minute

Look - gaze, see, glance, watch, survey, study, seek, search for, peek, peep, glimpse, stare,

contemplate, examine, gape, ogle, scrutinize, inspect, leer, behold, observe, view, witness,

perceive, spy, sight, discover, notice, recognize, peer, eye, gawk, peruse, explore

Love - like, admire, esteem, fancy, care for, cherish, adore, treasure, worship, appreciate, savor

Make - create, originate, invent, beget, form, construct, design, fabricate, manufacture, produce,

build, develop, do, effect, execute, compose, perform, accomplish, earn, gain, obtain, acquire, get

Mark - label, tag, price, ticket, impress, effect, trace, imprint, stamp, brand, sign, note, heed,

notice, designate

Mischievous - prankish, playful, naughty, roguish, waggish, impish, sportive

Move - plod, go, creep, crawl, inch, poke, drag, toddle, shuffle, trot, dawdle, walk, traipse,

mosey, jog, plug, trudge, slump, lumber, trail, lag, run, sprint, trip, bound, hotfoot, high-tail,

streak, stride, tear, breeze, whisk, rush, dash, dart, bolt, fling, scamper, scurry, skedaddle, scoot,

scuttle, scramble, race, chase, hasten, hurry, hump, gallop, lope, accelerate, stir, budge, travel,

wander, roam, journey, trek, ride, spin, slip, glide, slide, slither, coast, flow, sail, saunter, hobble,

amble, stagger, paddle, slouch, prance, straggle, meander, perambulate, waddle, wobble, pace,

swagger, promenade, lunge

Moody - temperamental, changeable, short-tempered, glum, morose, sullen, mopish, irritable,

testy, peevish, fretful, spiteful, sulky, touchy

Neat - clean, orderly, tidy, trim, dapper, natty, smart, elegant, well-organized, super, desirable,

spruce, shipshape, well-kept, shapely

New - fresh, unique, original, unusual, novel, modern, current, recent

Old - feeble, frail, ancient, weak, aged, used, worn, dilapidated, ragged, faded, broken-down,

former, old-fashioned, outmoded, passe, veteran, mature, venerable, primitive, traditional,

archaic, conventional, customary, stale, musty, obsolete, extinct

Part - portion, share, piece, allotment, section, fraction, fragment

Place - space, area, spot, plot, region, location, situation, position, residence, dwelling, set, site,

station, status, state

Plan - plot, scheme, design, draw, map, diagram, procedure, arrangement, intention, device,

contrivance, method, way, blueprint

Popular - well-liked, approved, accepted, favorite, celebrated, common, current

Predicament - quandary, dilemma, pickle, problem, plight, spot, scrape, jam

Put - place, set, attach, establish, assign, keep, save, set aside, effect, achieve, do, build

Quiet - silent, still, soundless, mute, tranquil, peaceful, calm, restful

Right - correct, accurate, factual, true, good, just, honest, upright, lawful, moral, proper, suitable,

apt, legal, fair

Run - race, speed, hurry, hasten, sprint, dash, rush, escape, elope, flee

Say/Tell - inform, notify, advise, relate, recount, narrate, explain, reveal, disclose, divulge,

declare, command, order, bid, enlighten, instruct, insist, teach, train, direct, issue, remark,

converse, speak, affirm, suppose, utter, negate, express, verbalize, voice, articulate, pronounce,

deliver, convey, impart, assert, state, allege, mutter, mumble, whisper, sigh, exclaim, yell, sing,

yelp, snarl, hiss, grunt, snort, roar, bellow, thunder, boom, scream, shriek, screech, squawk,

whine, philosophize, stammer, stutter, lisp, drawl, jabber, protest, announce, swear, vow,

content, assure, deny, dispute

Scared - afraid, frightened, alarmed, terrified, panicked, fearful, unnerved, insecure, timid, shy,

skittish, jumpy, disquieted, worried, vexed, troubled, disturbed, horrified, terrorized, shocked,

petrified, haunted, timorous, shrinking, tremulous, stupefied, paralyzed, stunned, apprehensive

Show - display, exhibit, present, note, point to, indicate, explain, reveal, prove, demonstrate,

expose

Slow - unhurried, gradual, leisurely, late, behind, tedious, slack

Stop - cease, halt, stay, pause, discontinue, conclude, end, finish, quit

Story - tale, myth, legend, fable, yarn, account, narrative, chronicle, epic, sage, anecdote, record,

memoir

Strange - odd, peculiar, unusual, unfamiliar, uncommon, queer, weird, outlandish, curious,

unique, exclusive, irregular

Take - hold, catch, seize, grasp, win, capture, acquire, pick, choose, select, prefer, remove, steal,

lift, rob, engage, bewitch, purchase, buy, retract, recall, assume, occupy, consume

Tell - disclose, reveal, show, expose, uncover, relate, narrate, inform, advise, explain, divulge,

declare, command, order, bid, recount, repeat

Think - judge, deem, assume, believe, consider, contemplate, reflect, mediate

Trouble - distress, anguish, anxiety, worry, wretchedness, pain, danger, peril, disaster, grief,

misfortune, difficulty, concern, pains, inconvenience, exertion, effort

True - accurate, right, proper, precise, exact, valid, genuine, real, actual, trusty, steady, loyal,

dependable, sincere, staunch

Ugly - hideous, frightful, frightening, shocking, horrible, unpleasant, monstrous, terrifying,

gross, grisly, ghastly, horrid, unsightly, plain, homely, evil, repulsive, repugnant, gruesome

Unhappy - miserable, uncomfortable, wretched, heart-broken, unfortunate, poor, downhearted,

sorrowful, depressed, dejected, melancholy, glum, gloomy, dismal, discouraged, sad

Use - employ, utilize, exhaust, spend, expend, consume, exercise

Wrong - incorrect, inaccurate, mistaken, erroneous, improper, unsuitable

INDEX II- IELTS WRITING TASK 2 (TOPICS)

1Some people think that it is important to use leisure time for activities that improve the mind,

such as reading and doing word puzzles.

Other people feel that it is important to rest the mind during leisure time.

You should write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

2We have been living in the nuclear age now for over half a century. Since the first atomic

bombs were developed, nuclear technology has provided governments with the ability to totally

destroy the planet. Yet the technology has been put to positive use as an energy source and in

certain areas of medicine.

To what extent is nuclear technology a danger to life on Earth? What are the benefits and risks

associated with its use?

3People in all modern societies use drugs, but today's youth are expertimenting with both legal

and illegal drugs, and at an increasingly early age. Some sociologists claim that parents and other

members of society often set a bad example.

Discuss the causes and some effects of widespread drug use by young people in modern day

society. Make any recommendations you feel are necessary to help fight youth drug abuse.

4The world is experiencing a dramatic increase in population, This is causing problems not only

for poor, undeveloped countries, but also for industrialised and developing nations.

Describe some of the problems that overpopulation causes, and suggest at least one possible

solution.

5Studying the English language in an English-speaking country is the best but not the only way

to learn language.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

6"Although abuse of the system are inevitable, social welfare payments are essential to protect

the rights citizens have to a guaranteed minimum income in a democratic society" Discuss.

7Disruptive school students have a negative influence on others.

Students who are noisy and disobedient should be grouped together and taught separately. Do

you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer.

8Should parents be obliged to immunise their children against childhood diseases?

Or do individuals have the right to choose not to immunise their children?

9Should parents be obliged to immunise their children against common Band 9 answer

childhood diseases? Or do individuals have the right to choose not to immunise their children?

10 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 the future? Is this dependence on computers a good thing or

should we he more auspicious of their benefits?

11 Smokers can cause themselves serious health problems. The choice to smoke is made freely

and with knowledge of dangers.

Smokers should therefore expect to pay more for medical treatment than non-smokers.

To what extent do you agree with this statement?

12 International entertainers, including sports personalities, often get paid millions of dollars in

one year.

In your view, with widespread pverty in the world, are these huge earnings justified?

•You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.

13 Most writers of fiction do not earn enough money to live from their writing.

Do you think the government should give them financial assistance to help encourage good

literature?


14 You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. "Prevention is better than cure." Out of a

country's health budget, a large proportion should be diverted from treatment to spending on

health education and preventative measures.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 15 The position of women in

society has changed markedly in the last twenty years. Many of the problems young people now

experience, such as juvenile delinquency, arise from the fact that many married women now

work and are not at home to care for their children.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?


16 People attend college or university for many defferent reasons (for example, new experiences,

career preparation, increased knowledge).

Why do you think people attend college or university?


17 Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Parents are the best teachers. Use

specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience. 18

Nowadays food has become easier to prepare. Has this change improved the way people

live?

You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience.

19 It has been said, "Not everything that is learned is contained in books." Compare and contrast

knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books.

In your opinion, which source is more important? Why?

You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience 20 As

computers are being used more and more in education, there will be soon no role for

teachers in the classroom.

You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience. 21

Popular events like the football World Cup and other international sporting occasions are

essential in easing international tensions and releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way.

You should give reasons for your answer using your own ideas and experience. 22 In the

past, buildings often reflected the culture of a society but today all modern buildings look

alike and cities throughout the world are becoming more and more similar.

What do you think is the reason for this, and is it a good thing or a bad thing?

•You should use your own ideas, knowledge and experience and support your arguments with

examples and relevant evidence.

23 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 with this statement?

Give reasons for your answer. 24 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. Meanwhile, we see some

politicians enjoying power well into their eighties. Clearly, there is little agreement on an

appropriate retirement age.

Until what age do you think people should be encouraged to remain in paid employment?


25 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 expresing your point of view. 26 'Telecommuting' refers to workers doing their

jobs from home for part 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? 27 The rising levels

of congestion and air pollution found in most of the world's 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.

28 The mass media, including television, radio and newspapers, have great influence in shaping

people's ideas.


Give reasons for your answer. 29 Some governments say how many children a family can hare in

their country. They may control the number of children someone has through taxes. It is

sometimes necessary and right for a government to control the population in this way.

Do you agree or disagree?


30 Millions of people every year move to English-speaking countries such as Australia, Britain

or America, in order to study at school, college or university.

Why do so many people want to study in English?

Why is English such an important international language? Give reasons for your answer.. 31

"Fatherhood ought to be emphasised as much as motherhood. The idea that women are solely

responsible for deciding whether or not to have babies leads on to the idea that they are also

responsible for bringing the children up."

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

32 Without capital punishment (the death penalty) our lives are less secure and crimes of

violence increase. Capital punishment in essential to control violence in society. To what extent

do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

33 Television has had a significant influence on the culture of many societies. To what extent

would you say that television has positively or negatively affected the cultural development of

your society?

34 Many people believe that television programs are of no value for children. Do you agree?

Why or why not?

Provide reasons and examples to support your response.

35 News editors decide what to broadcast on television and what to print in newspapers.

What factors do you think influence these decisions? Do we become used to bad news?

Would it he better if more good news was reported?

36 Some people believe that childrens leisure activities must be educational, otherwise they are a

complete waste of time.


Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your experience. 37 It has

been more than 30 years since man first landed on the moon.

Some people think that space research is a waste of money.

Discuss.

38 It is generally acknowledged that families are now not as close as they used to be.

Give possible reasons and your recommendations.

39 Many people think that nowadays people are being subjected to more and more pressure in

their work, and thus are having less and less time to relax. What is your opinion?

40 It is often said that the subjects taught in schools are too academic in orientation and that it

would be more useful for children to learn about practical matters such as home management,

work and interpersonal skills. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 41 With the increasing

popularity of computers and calculators, student literacy is decreasing dramatically.

What are the positive and negative effects the progress of science and technology has brought

about?

42 Learning a foreign language offers an insight into how people from other cultures think and

see the world.

The teaching of a foreign language should be compulsory at all primary schools.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?


examples.

43 In many major cities of the world, you will find large public buildings, both new and old.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of such buildings.

How important is it for a country to construct impressive public buildings when houses are want

is really required?


examples. 44 In the past, buildings often reflected the culture of a society but today all modern

buildings look alike and cities throughout the world are becoming more and more similar.

What do you think is the reason for this, and is it a good think or a bad think?


examples. 45 Write about the following topic: Should animals be used in testing new drugs and

procedures?

Gives reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or

experience.

46 Action movies with spectacular car chases are very popular with young people. it is often said

that these sorts of movies lead to an increase in car accidents among young drivers as they try to

copy what they have seen in the films.

Do you agree that such movies increase the amount of bad driving? What can be done to

encourage young people to drive more safely?


experience.

47 In Britain, when someone gets old they often go to live in a home with other old peoples

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?


experience. 48 The earth is being filled with waste material such as plastic bags and other

rubbish. Is this really happening? What are some solutions to this problem?


experience.

49 Children who are brought up in the family that do not have a lot of money are better prepared

to deal with problems when they become adults than children who are brought up by wealthy

parent.



experience.

50 Some people think high school graduates should travel or work for a period of time instead of

going directly to study at university. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of both

approaches.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or

experience.

51 Some people insist that senior workers 65 or over should retire but others believe that they

should continue working. What is you opinion? 52 In many countries, sports and exercise classes

are replaced with the academic subjects. Discuss the effects of this trend. 53 Children's lives

these days are quite different from our generation's. Describe what are the biggest changes in

younger generation and explain some factors of this phenomenon.

54 With the pressures on today’s young people to succeed academically, some people believe

that non-academic subjects at school (eg: physical education and cookery) should be removed

from the syllabus so that children can concentrate wholly on academic subjects.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

55 You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

A lot of people believe that the amount of violence shown on TV and in the cinema affects the

actions of our young people and therefore increases the amount of violence in our society today.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement? What can be done to reduce violence in our

society today? 56 Every day traffic seems to get worse on our roads. How can we reduce the

number of cars on our roads today? What alternatives can we offer car drivers? 57 The wealth

gap between 1st world countries and 3rd world countries seems to be increasing. How can we

reduce this gap? Do you think that developed countries have a duty to assist developing countries

in every way?

58 Trade and travel would be a lot easier with a single, global currency that we all use.

Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Would a single currency cause any problems? 59

All education, primary, secondary and further education, should be free to all people and paid for

by the government.


60 The 21st century has begun. What changes do you think this new century will bring?

Use examples and details in your answer.

61 Some people prefer to plan activities for their free time very carefully. Others choose not to

make any plans at all for their free time. Compare the benefits of planning free- time activities

with the benefits of not making plans.

Which do you prefer - planning or not planning for your leisure time?

Use specific reasons and examples to explain your choice.

62 Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Advertising can tell you a lot about a

country.

Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

63 Some people say that advertising encourages us to buy things we really do not need. Others

say that advertisements tell us about new products that may improve our lives. Which viewpoint

do you agree with?


64 Some people like to do only what they already do well. Other people prefer to try new things

and take risks. Which do you prefer?

Use specific reasons and examples to support your choice.

65 Some people believe that the best way of learning about life is by listening to the advice of

family and friends.

Other people believe that the best way of learning about life is through personal experience.

Compare the advantages of these two different ways of learning about life. Which do you think

is preferable?

Use specific examples to support your preference.

66 Some people think that human needs for farmland, housing, and industry are more important

than saving land for endangered animals. Do you agree or disagree with this point of view? Why

or why not?


67 Many parts of the world are losing important natural resources, such as forests, animals, or

clean water.

Choose one resource that is disappearing and explain why it needs to be saved.

Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.

68 It has been said, “Not everything that is learned is contained in books.” Compare and contrast

knowledge gained from experience with knowledge gained from books.

In your opinion, which source is more important? Why? 69 Do you agree or disagree with the

following statement?

People should read only those books that are about real events, real people, and established facts.

Use specific reasons and details to support your opinion.

70 It has recently been announced that a new movie theater may be built in your neighborhood.

Do you support or oppose this plan? Why?

Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.

71 A company has announced that it wishes to build a large factory near your community.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this new influence on your community.

Do you support or oppose the factory? Explain your position.

72 The government has announced that it plans to build a new university.

Some people think that your community would be a good place to locate the university.

Compare the advantages and disadvantages of establishing a new university in your community.

Use specific details in your discussion.

73 Should a city try to preserve its old, historic buildings or destroy them and replace them with

modern buildings? Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.

74 Businesses should hire employees for their entire lives. Do you agree or disagree?


75 Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

Businesses should do anything they can to make a profit. Use specific reasons and examples to

support your position.

76 Some people enjoy change, and they look forward to new experiences.

Others like their lives to stay the same, and they do not change their usual habits.

Compare these two approaches to life. Which approach do you prefer? Explain why. 77 What are

some important qualities of a good supervisor (boss)?

Use specific details and examples to explain why these qualities are important.


Children should be required to help with household tasks as soon as they are able to do so.


79 It is better for children to grow up in the countryside than in a big city.


Use specific reasons and examples to develop your essay.

80 Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Parents or other adult relatives should

make important decisions for their (15 to 18 year-old) teenage children. Use specific reasons and

examples to support your opinion. 81 Do you agree or disagree with the following statement?

Children should begin learning a foreign language as soon as they start school.

Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion. 82 Do you agree or disagree with the

following statement? Watching television is bad for children.


83 Some people think that children should begin their formal education at a very early age and

should spend most of their time on school studies.

Others believe that young children should spend most of their time playing.

Compare these two views. Which view do you agree with? Why?

84 A person you know is planning to move to your town or city. What do you think this person

would like and dislike about living in your town or city?

Why? Use specific reasons and details to develop your essay.

85 It is better for children to grow up in the countryside than in a big city.


Use specific reasons and examples to develop your essay.


Classmates are a more important influence than parents on a child’s success in school.


87 We all work or will work in our jobs with many different kinds of people.

In your opinion, what are some important characteristics of a co-worker (someone you work

closely with)?

Use reasons and specific examples to explain why these characteristics are important. 88 Do you

agree or disagree with the following statement?

Television has destroyed communication among friends and family.



experience.

89 You have decided to give several hours of your time each month to improve the community

where you live. What is one thing you will do to improve your community? Why?

Use specific reasons and details to explain your choice. Give reasons for your answer and

include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

90 Some people prefer to work for a large company.

Others prefer to work for a small company. Which would you prefer?



experience.

91 When people need to complain about a product or poor service, some prefer to complain in

writing and others prefer to complain in person. Which way do you prefer?



experience. 92 Some people say that computers have made life easier and more convenient.

Other people say that computers have made life more complex and stressful.

What is your opinion? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.


experience.

93 It is generally agreed that society benefits from the work of its members.

Compare the contributions of artists to society with the contributions of scientists to society.

Which type of contribution do you think is valued more by your society? Give specific reasons to

support your answer.


experience. 94 You have the opportunity to visit a foreign country for two weeks.

Which country would you like to visit?

Use specific reasons and details to explain your choice.


experience.

95 A foreign visitor has only one day to spend in your country.

Where should this visitor go on that day? Why?

Use specific reasons and details to support your choice.


experience.

96 Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Modern technology is creating a

single world culture. Use specific reasons and examples to support your opinion.


experience.

97 When people move to another country, some of them decide to follow the customs of the new

country.

Others prefer to keep their own customs. Compare these two choices.

Which one do you prefer? Support your answer with specific details.


experience.

98 Describe a custom from your country that you would like people from other countries to

adopt.

Explain your choice, using specific reasons and examples. 99 Do you agree or disagree with the

following statement?

A person should never make an important decision alone. Use specific reasons and examples to

support your answer.


experience.

100 What discovery in the last 100 years has been most beneficial for people in your country?



experience.

101 Some people prefer to eat at food stands or restaurants. Other people prefer to prepare and

eat food at home.

Which do you prefer? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.


experience.

102 Some people believe that a college or university education should be available to all

students.

Others believe that higher education should be available only to good students.

Discuss these views. Which view do you agree with? Explain why.


experience. 103 The costs of medical health care are increasing all the time. Governments are

finding it difficult to balance the health care budget.

Should citizens be totally responsible for their own health costs and take out private health

insurance, or is it better to have a comprehensive health care system which provides free health

services for all? Discuss.


experience. 104 Some people think that universities should not provide so much theoretical

knowledge but give more practical training throughout their courses.



experience.

105 It is widely believed that children of different levels of intelligence should be taught

together, while others think that more intelligent children should be taught separately.

Discuss and present your own opinion.


experience.

106 job for the same company, whereas others prefer to change jobs frequently.

Write about the advantages and disadvantages of each viewpoint?


experience.

107 Nowadays, international tourism is the biggest industry in the world. Unfortunately,

international tourism creates tension rather than understanding between people from different

cultures.



experience.

108 Nowadays, education overseas has become more accessible and growing numbers of people

send their offspring to study in other countries. However, this trend has its detractors.

I strongly believe that the pros far outweigh the cons, and will examine both below.


experience.

109 Fashion trends are difficult to follow these days and it’s widely believed that they primarily

exist just to sell clothes. Some people believe that we shouldn’t follow them and that we should

dress in what we like and feel comfortable in.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?.


experience.

110 Some people think that it is important to have a single language as an international official

language. Others think that it will make it difficult to identify countries and cause a loss of

culture.

What are your opinions on this?


experience.

1 Some people say the government should not put money into building theatres and sports

stadiums; they should spend more money on medical care and education.



experience.

112 Companies should encourage employees who work in a high position to leave at the age of

55 in order to give opportunities to the new generation.



experience.

113 Traffic and housing problems in major cities could be solved by moving large companies

and factories and their employees to the countryside.



experience.

114 As the world becomes technologically advanced, computers are replacing more and more

jobs.

Describe some job positions that may be lost because of computers, and discuss at least one

problem that may result.


experience.

115 Families who do not send their children to governmentfinanced schools should not be

required to pay taxes that support universal education.


experience.

116 Families who do not send their children to governmentfinanced schools should not be

required to pay taxes that support universal education.


experience.

117 Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others

believe that children who are taugh to co-operate rather than compete become more useful

adults.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.


experience.

This is an answer written by a candidate who achieved a Band 6 score. Here is the examiner's

comment:

118 By punishing murderers with the death penalty, society is also guilt of committing murder.

Therefore, life in prison is a better punishment for murderers.



experience.

119 By punishing murderers with the death penalty, society is also guilt of committing murder.

Therefore, life in prison is a better punishment for murderers.



experience.

120 In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between

finishing high school and starting university studies.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

121 Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on

our personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life.

Which do you consider to be the major influence?


experience.

122 Children should never be educated at home by their parents. Do you agree or disagree?

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

123 Scientists and the news media are presenting ever more evidence of climate change.

Governmnets cannot be expected to solve this problem. It is the responsibility of individuals to

change their lifestyle to prevent further damage.

What are your views?


experience.

Writing Task 2

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Transcript of Writing Task 2