You will be given some information in the form of a diagram, table, graph or a chart to test your ability to understand and to report the given information in your own words. The presentation must be in complete sentences, not in bullet points. The minimum word limit is 150 and the suggested time is 20 minutes. Your task is to report the information, summarising it and making comparisons where relevant. Also, do not give an opinion, make assumptions or draw a conclusion about the information provided, as they are not asked.

Types of Task 1

• bar graph
• table
• pie chart
• line graph
• diagram (equipment/machine/object)
• diagram of the stages of a process
• a sequence of events/a procedure how something is done
• map/diagram

There might be a combination of any one or two types of pictorial illustrations.

PLAN THE NUMBER OF PARAGRAPHS

First of all, you must fully understand the given task. Invest one or two minutes to plan the number of paragraphs and the points to respond. You are required to compare the provided data. Support the comparison with the help of the data provided in the diagram while taking care to report the main features. For better planning, look at the diagram for some special features or eye-catching point. You should use approximately 20 minutes to finish writing, including the time to proofread at the end. Remember, the weightage for Task 2 is twice that for Task 1. Do not invest too much time on Task 1.

You can write either 3 or 4 paragraphs, although paragraphing may not always be required. You must make your mind before you begin to write. Note that in Academic Writing Task 1 you do not need to write a separate paragraph as a conclusion. You must also decide what the main topic of each paragraph will be before you start to write.

To start with, you will need an introductory paragraph describing the pictorial in brief. However, an introduction that is too short or a one-liner will not satisfy the requirement of the first paragraph.

In some cases, it is a good idea to join together the introduction and an overview statement.

IELTS Band Descriptors

IELTS test has band descriptors which state the proficiency level of the candidate. In simpler words, it helps in determining whether the candidate is an expert user, intermediate or beginner in the English Language

A Band descriptor is divided into 9 levels along with the four components by which an examiner judges the candidate for accomplishing the set of requirements described in it.

This is helpful for the candidates because it will enable them to know what the examiners are looking for in their answers which in turn avoids losing any score.

Line charts, bar charts, and tables often show changes over a period of time, and how quickly or how slowly these changes happen. They can also tell you how big or how small these changes are.

A lot of the information you are likely to see in the IELTS Task 1 writing test can be expressed using two lines, the x-axis (horizontal) and the y-axis (vertical). This forms a chart where the rest of the information can be added.

Task 1

X-axis

This will usually show the passing of time in:

• Hours
• Days
• Weeks
• Months
• Years or even decades

Y-axis

This will show what changes over a period of time:

• The number of cars exported to the US
• The cost of public transportation
• The amount of electricity used per household, etc.

The charts below show the number of staff in the engineering department at two universities.

When writing the introduction, it is useful to remember that you are answering the question, “What is it?”, in other words, “What type of information does the chart show?” The more clearly you answer this question, the better your introduction is likely to be.

Important Tips

Points to consider:

• COPYING – You should not copy the introduction given in T1 question, even if you include small sections from it, the examiner will still see it as a problem. Also, these words will not be counted if presented ditto. (copied exactly the same)

• NOT WRITING ENOUGH INFORMATION – This may take the form of either leaving out information already provided in the Task 1 introduction or not finding all of the extra information from the chart.

• Remember always to include the type of graph, time period, what the data is about. names/number of categories AND look for the units. You do not have to put the units in the introduction (although you can) but check for units when you first look at the chart because you might forget later.

•Do not include the word below or a synonym of it, because this would not be true.

Remember that you are writing on the exam paper and this has no diagram on it.

After writing the introduction, you now need to write a statement that describes the main idea or trend of the diagram. This is called an Overview. It can be included in the first paragraph with the introduction or can be written as a separate paragraph.

This is a general statement, which means that it should only provide an overview of the given chart and should not be too specific or detailed.

Remember: Preferably, no figures are used in this statement.

Important Tips

When writing a general statement, both the simple present and simple past verb tenses can be used. However, it is more usual to use the simple past.

Exercise

Look closely at the table and decide what would make a good general statement.

Exercise

Notice which universities have experienced an increase in the number of staff according to the table below.

Task 1 

The chart below shows the number of staff in the Engineering Department in three universities.

As you look more closely at what happened over the 5 years, from 2003 to 2007, you can see that the number of staff in each university has fluctuated. You cannot, however, use words such as:

The number of staff went up and down … /The number of staff fluctuated.

These statements, although true, display poor word choice. Such a statement is descriptive but is missing an overall trend

To find a trend for each university, simply look at the number of staff employed in 2003 and then the number of staff in 2007. DO NOT look at any of the other years. Did employment figures increase or decrease for each university?

A useful way to write an overview is by dividing the categories into different groups. You should have found that the staff in University A increased, University B increased, and University C decreased. This information can now be turned into a general statement (overview):

In general, staff in the engineering departments of Universities A and B rose but figures fell for University Cover this period of time.

How would you word your overview statement?

Exercise

Task 1

Look at the table again and see if one university always, or nearly always, had more staff than the others.

University B had more staff in every year, and so this could be used to write the general statement with the main idea:

An overview of this chart shows that University B always had more staff than the other two universities over this period.

In some sample answers, you may find a conclusion. In this type of writing a general statement and a conclusion are very similar and repetition of information is difficult to avoid. It is preferable to write an overview rather than including a conclusion.

When we first look at the bar chart shown below it seems as if it is going to be very difficult to analyze.

Figures increase in regular steps from 2001 to 2010, and nothing seems to stand out as being very different.

Look at the bar chart and start to collect any extra information needed to write the introduction. Also, remember to look for units so that vou know what the figures mean. Now think about the overview statement and see if it is possible to write both the introductory statement and the overview in a single sentence.

You only need to include one type of general statement in your Task 1 essay but being able to write both types helps you to develop your analytical skills.

Being able to analyse a diagram properly is essential if you want to get a good grade.

Task 1

The table below shows how far different salesmen travelled in 6 months in 2010.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The graph below shows the number of murders per 100, 000 inhabitants in different countries, according to a report in 2014.

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

Write at least 150 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar graph represents the number of luxury cars sold in 2015 and 2016 in a country.

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

Remember, being able to describe a diagram accurately is an important skill to learn if you want to get a good grade on the IELTS test. It is essential, as you have already seen that you learn how to use adjectives and adverbs correctly, but it is also important to be able to calculate figures accurately.

For instance, if you look at the diagram below and the figure for 1995, you can see that the figure is exactly 300. Many students still write phrases like – university admissions in 1995 were roughly 300 – this is wrong. Be accurate and write – university admissions in 1995 were exactly 300

Complete the diagram by reading the main body text.

Task 1

The diagram below shows changes in pollen in New York in 2012. Read the main body below the diagram and draw in the information for San Francisco.

Some diagrams use rates as a unit. If you have a diagram like this in your test, you must be careful about how you express the figures. For instance, if the diagram shows the information on literacy rates in various countries, the units might be expressed as, literacy rates per 1000 people. This means that a figure of, for instance, 970 out of 1,000 people are literate. Of course, this could also be expressed as – ‘97% of the people are literate.

Task 1

The diagram below shows the information on live births among women of different age groups in the UK.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The line graphs below show the percentage of Instagram users according to age in New Zealand and the UK in 2016.

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

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar graph represents the number of luxury cars sold in 2015 and 2016 in a country.

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

Exercise 1A

Complete the text below by adding the correct prepositions.

The pie chart provides data 1._____how a typical family 2.___America spends their money 3.____nine different categories. In general, the biggest portion 4.____their budget goes 5.____housing whereas the least amount 6.____money is spent 7._______insurance and pension plans. More specifically, almost one-third (33%) of a family’s total budget goes 8._______their accommodation. This is contrasted 9. _______the 4% that is allotted 10.______insurance or pensions. Exactly 5% of the total income was spent on each of three categories clothing, health, and savings. The 15% spent 11_____food makes it the second largest expense and is closely followed by entertainment 12.___a slightly lower amount of 14%. The amount given to other overheads is 9% and so slightly less than the 10% spent on transportation. The three largest financial commitments 13.______a family, that is housing, food, and entertainment, total almost two-thirds 14._____the total budget at 62%. For instance, if you look at the diagram below and the figure for 1995, you can see that the figure is exactly 300. Many students still write phrases like – university admissions in 1995 were roughly 300 – this is wrong. Be accurate and write – university admissions in 1995 were exactly 300

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The pie charts show the distribution of the people of the USA according to their New Year resolutions in 2012 and 2014.

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

Write at least 150 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The charts below show the primary pollutants and their sources in four different metro cities across the world in the year 2017.

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

Look at the diagram below and write an introduction and general statement. Remember to look for all of the important information. For extra practice try to write both a general statement trend and a general statement main idea.

Task 1

The diagram below shows information on migration into and out of the UK.

Exercise 3A

The diagram below shows various leisure time activities enjoyed by males and females. Although there is no period, we do have different age groups. This means that it is still possible to state the trend for each activity. Look at the table and decide how many activities increased and how many decreased. Then write an introduction and general statement.

Look at the table taken from a survey conducted in the UK in 2009 about household chores and then try to complete the essay below it by adding prepositions.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The diagram below shows various leisure time activities enjoyed by males and females of different age groups.

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

Write at least 150 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The table below shows the number of overseas students (in thousands) from four different countries to a specific reputed university.

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

Look at the text below written about the flow chart given above and underline all of the passive verbs. Has the passive been used for all of the verbs? Is the simple present passive the only passive form used here?

The illustration details the various stages involved in the creation of graphics from a customer’s description of his artwork.

First of all, the customer talks to the graphic artist about his artwork and describes what he wants. The artist then creates the graphics using the information that he has been given. The finished graphics are subsequently reviewed by a reviewer to see how good they are. After this, if it is felt that they do not look very good, they go back to the graphic artist who redesigns them. If, however, the graphics pass the standards set by the company, they are passed to the client who will either approve or reject them. If they are considered unacceptable, they go back to the designer. However, if the graphics are to the client’s liking, they will be approved and saved in their database. Once the graphics have been stored in the company’s database, they are sent to the customer.

Exercise 1B

Complete the sentences by turning the verbs in brackets into the simple present passive. Be careful because not all verbs follow the formula: is/are + verb/ed.

1. The corn, once fully mature,____(harvest)
2. The water__(boil) and then the tea__(add)
3. The sieve__(shake) in order to remove the dirt.
4. The trees___(cut) before_____(transport) to the wood mill.
5. Subsequently, an e-mail is____(write) and then sent to the company.

The manufacturing of chocolate 1.______with the 2.______of cocoa liquor, cocoa butter, milk, sugar and a range of other ingredients. After these have been thoroughly blended together the mixture 3._____the refining stage of production. Once this particular stage in the manufacturing process 4.____, it is then followed by conching a process that results in a mixture called the chocolate converture. The converture 5._____for a period of time before it 6.__ Subsequently, four different and penultimate processes are carried out simultaneously. These are enrobing, panning, moulding and extrusion which then lead to the final stage of this process where the chocolate 7.______into packaging.The illustration highlights the stages involved in the production of chocolate from four main ingredients.

Exercise 4B

Now complete the six sentences below by using some of the words in brackets.

1. ______sales____in New York from USS165,000 in 2003 to US$132,000 in 2010, figures_____higher than all of the other five cities. (felled /fell / falling /interestingly / stay / remained / despite)
2. The percentage of women majoring in science subjects_____from 7% to 8% over this period of time. (increase / increased / slight / slightly/ decreased / significantly)
3. Levels of pollution_____from 1200 metric tons in 2007 to 3000 metric tons in 2010; a climb of 1800 metric tons. (increase / rose /dramatic / dramatically / climb / slight)
4. The number of accidents in school playgrounds_____by 15% over the five years; __________,______ from 27% to 12%. (rose / fell / decrease / decreasing / increase / substantial / substantially)
5. Traveling by bus also________with the total mileage _______from 540,000 miles in 2001 to 235,000 miles 7 years later. (drop / dropped / fall / falling / steady / went down)
6. Generally speaking, salaries were______in Europe than in Asia. (significant / significantly / high / higher)

Here you will begin to look at some of the main features of a diagram that you can look for when writing the main body. What you look for, however, will depend on whether the diagram has the time or not. A diagram with a period will focus more on what changes but a diagram with no period will focus more on comparisons and contrasts.

Exercise 8A

Look at the table below and complete the last two columns indicating what you can look for in each type of diagram. Write YES if you can look for this particular feature and NO if you cannot.

Look at the list of verbs below and decide which verb in Table A goes with which object in Table B. It might be possible to use some of the verbs with more than one item.

Table A

Table B

Exercise 2

Now turn the verbs above into their participle form.

*In the actual response, the tense must be appropriate to the mentioned years) in the diagram.

In the IELTS Writing Task 2, you are given a topic that consists of a stated fact or someone’s opinion and a question. You have to write an essay addressing this question based on the given topic, in a minimum of 250 words in around 40 minutes’ time.

You need to take a clear stand/position regarding the topic and develop appropriate ideas which support your position. You have to do this using relevant explanations and examples.

A typical Task 2 question looks like this:

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

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

Write at least 250 words.

It informs you about the time you should devote to this task, the minimum number of words required to be written and most importantly the topic and the question you are needed to answer.

Understanding the question

Once you have read the instructions, you have to read and understand the question asked of you. It is easy to recognise the question if you are able to understand the relation between the stated fact/opinion and the question. You need to know that you have to answer what is being asked in the question and not write any information or show your knowledge of the topic. You don’t have to cover every aspect of the topic but only answer for the specified area asked in the question.

There are in general 5 essay question types asked in IELTS.

1. Opinion (Agree or Disagree)
2. Advantages and Disadvantages
3. Problem and Solution
4. Discussion (Discuss both views)
5. Two-part Question

It is important to identify the question type given in the task in order to develop relevant ideas.

Before you begin writing your answer, it is important that you brainstorm the ideas that you are going to include in the essay and also to think of the explanation and examples that you will use to support your ideas. If you don’t plan, there are chances that your ideas will be disorganised and you will lose marks because of it.

To do this, first, decide what stand you will take. Once you have decided on the stand think of the reasons why you hold that opinion and note them. Also, think of how you will explain these ideas. It is important that you do so otherwise your essay may have a lot of ideas but if those ideas are not supported with a relevant explanation then it will not be a well-developed essay.

Also, planning your answer before writing ensures that you are writing in support of your position and that you do not digress from it in between the essay.

It helps you to hold your essay together.

After brainstorming on all the ideas that you are going to include in your essay, you should organise these ideas grouping them in different paragraphs on the basis of which idea is most important and should come first and which idea should follow thereafter. Once the planning and organising is done you can write your answer in a logical and coherent manner.

An essay consists of an introduction, the body paragraphs and a conclusion. It is important to write your answer using the appropriate format or you will lose marks.

Writing introduction

The introduction of an essay informs the reader about the topic of the essay. It gives the reader an idea about what they are going to read. In IELTS too you need to write an introduction in your essay.

This introduction consists of two statements. The first is a general statement which provides some basic idea about the essay topic. For writing the general statement you can simply paraphrase the question statement or write some other statement of your own which introduces the topic. The second statement which is to be written in the introduction is more important. It is called the Thesis statement.

Thesis statement

One most important element of an essay in IELTS Writing Task 2 is the author’s thesis statement. This statement shows the stand of the writer. You are the writer of the essay and what position vou take should be clearly written in vour essav. The examiner will look for a statement in either your introduction or the conclusion paragraph which directly states vour position

There are three positions that you can take on any topic; either you can agree with an opinion, or you can disagree. The third way is you can sit on the fence. What sitting on the fence means is that you don’t strongly support any one side, instead, you are neutral and can give ideas supporting both the sides.

Your writing is not judged on what stand you take but on how well you support it. It is suggested that you take one specific stand rather then being neutral as it is difficult to be able to write impartially about both sides. Your answer may get inclined towards one side which will make your thesis statement untrue.

Body Paragraphs

The body paragraphs are where you write your main ideas supporting the stand that you have taken about the subject. The ideas need to be logically arranged in different paragraphs with relevant explanation and examples. Do not write very long paragraphs instead divide the ideas into two-three short paragraphs.

Conclusion

When writing an essay it is important to conclude your answer. The conclusion is just a restatement of your thesis statement. You need to paraphrase the thesis statement that you wrote in the introduction as rewriting the same will not fetch you any marks. The conclusion should not include any new idea, all the ideas should be discussed in the body paragraphs only.

Recognizing the topic is not so difficult but knowing how to approach the essay can be more complicated. Luckily, there are only three main essay types, but it is essential to become familiar with all three and the different ways you are told what to do. Be careful if the wrong essay is written a lower grade will automatically be given.

The three types are:

1. Agree or disagree with a stated opinion
2. Present the advantages and disadvantages of a stated situation /issue
3. Provide possible effects and solutions to a particular problem

Exercise

Look at some typical Task 2 instructions seen in the IELTS test and decide which essay type they are: A, B or C.

1. What do you think are the effects of global warming? What solutions can you suggest?
2. Many are of the opinion that television is an important medium for imparting useful information. Others, however, disagree and think that more control over what young people see should be imposed. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
3. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a gap year?

Notice that some instructions are inferred. That is to say, if the Task 2 statement is an opinion, but no instructions follow, the essay type is Agree/Disagree.

For instance:

“Many Western countries are facing a serious decrease in population levels which will seriously affect their economy in the future. Governments should, therefore, offer incentives to encourage couples to have more children.”

This type of essay is sometimes mistaken for a problem/solution essay, but the difference here is that one solution to declining population figures has already been given as an opinion. This opinion becomes the focus of the essay, and you must agree or disagree with it. You are not asked to offer alternative solutions.

It is better to focus on one side of the argument rather than be somewhere in the middle. Even experienced writers can end up arguing against themselves if they decide to sit on the fence. Therefore, 100% agree or 100% disagree and confirm this in the introduction by stating that, for instance, I completely agree that

Answer

1. C
2. A
3. B

Match the sample sentences below with the introduction, main body, or conclusion, and decide which type of essay they are probably from. Write:

A…. if it is Agree / Disagree

B …. if it is Advantage / Disadvantage

C…. if it is a Problem / Solution

1. As a result, more attention has been paid to the benefits and drawbacks of developing zoos as a means to protect them
2. In conclusion, although there are obvious drawbacks to studyins overseas, there are more benefits.
3. The government should begin to develop better methods of controlling the damage brought about by large increases in tourism.
4. Finally, the chance to learn social skills with both sexes also helps strengthen my conviction that mixed schools are the preferred environment for students.
5. Despite overwhelming evidence to the contrary, many people still feel that capital punishment is an effective way of reducing the number of offenders.

How many sentences do you think you need to write a 250-word essay?

The exact structure of your essay will depend on the instructions given to you. These instructions must be followed closely, or you risk ending with a lower grade than you deserve. Typically you will read:

Agree – Disagree Essay Do you agree or disagree? / Discuss both sides and then give your opinion.

Advantage – Disadvantage Essay Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this and then give your own opinion./ Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Problem – Solution Essay What are the problems associated with this, and what are some of the solutions?

Answer

1. B – INTRODUCTION
2. B – CONCLUSION
3. C – MAIN BODY OR A – INTRODUCTION
4. A – CONCLUSION
5. A – INTRODUCTION
6. You should need approximately 12 to 15 sentences for a 250-word essay.

Discover some of the most common topics used in the Task 2 writing test by completing the crossword. Use the definitions of each word at the bottom of this page to help. You can use a dictionary to help.

ACROSS

1. The community in which a person lives.
2. The characteristics of a group of people that makes them unique.
3. Your surroundings, especially natural surroundings.
4. The process of learning different things.
5. The study of the environment.

DOWN

1. The state of a living body.
2. The practical application of knowledge.
3. The economic activity related to serving people when they travel.
4. When the local or national ways of doing things become international.

Answer

ACROSS

1. society
2. culture
3. environment
4. education
5. ecology

DOWN

1. health
2. technology
3. tourism
4. globalization 

Everybody loves freedom, and the youth is probably more intense than the grey population. However, many people counter-argue and try to check it. I firmly believe that depriving someone of their freedom is against democracy and is inhuman

The first argument to my inclination is, a democratic nation has bestowed the right of freedom to every citizen. The government that divests its people of individual liberty is not democratic but autocratic, and the suppression exercised by government invariably leads to rebellion and insurgency. Thus, oppression will breed revolt and subversion of the government.

Furthermore, the youth will not mature until and unless they are given freedom. When a person can learn from his errors will bring maturity to him. Also, when the youth are simply dictated how they should behave and guided, they do not grow the capability of differentiating the fine line between right and wrong

On the other hand, I also understand some people’s misgivings about unlimited freedom the youth are enjoying which sometimes harms the people and the society. For example, young people have a right to stay up till late at night, but they have no right to play loud, raucous music at midnight and disturb others. I believe that, if the freedom given to the youth is unchecked and impinges on the lives of other people. it must be restricted.

In short, the youth should be given freedom to live, to err and to learn but they should be sensitive towards other people’s rights also.

(250 words)

Grey population (n): elderly people

Bestow (v): to give something to somebody, especially to show how much they are respected

Autocratic (adj): governed by one ruler who has complete power

Insurgency (n): an attempt to take control of a country by force

Subvert (v): to try to destroy the authority of a system by attacking it secretly

Subversion (n): destroying the authority of a system by attacking it secretly

Dictate (v): to tell somebody what to do

Misgiving (n): the feeling of doubt or anxiety about what might happen or whether or 

not something is a right thing to do

Raucous (adj: sounding loud and rough

Impinge (V): to have a noticeable effect on something, especially a bad one [synonym: encroach]

Err (v): to make an error 

Every subject has its significance, and therefore it is not justifiable to privilege one subject over others. Similarly, studying history equips students with specific aptitude and attitude that cannot be developed by studying other subjects. Therefore, I do not agree that teaching history is unnecessary.

First, the study of history is interesting as it includes many stories and historical events which provide the basic knowledge of art, culture and history. So, the cultural awareness is inculcated in students from the early years of schooling and further gives them an explanation of the present scenario which in turn enables to predict future possibilities. A person who is ignorant of native history will feel like an alien in his homeland. This further will hamper his ability to socialise in society. For example, a student born in a country where various faiths, cults, cultures and languages coexist, will understand better his country’s diversity of cultures if he studies the history of his country.

Secondly, it is a grave mistake if we perceive that the sole purpose of education is to churn out only technocrats, scientists and doctors. The broader scope of education is to make knowledgeable, and responsible citizens of the nation, for which study of the country’s past is inevitable to take lessons from the past experiences. We should allow the students to opt for the specialisation to learn the advanced level of history by choice

To conclude, in my opinion, the teaching of essential history in schools is indispensable, but students must be given the freedom to choose their specialisation.

(260 words)

Inculcate (v): to make somebody learn and remember moral principles ori deas

Hamper (v): to prevent somebody from easily achieving something or doing something

Cult (n): a system of religious beliefs and practices

Coexist (v): to exist together harmoniously

Churn out (phrasal verb): to produce something very quickly and in large amounts

Inevitable (adj) : that cannot be avoided [synonym: indispensable]

In the age of information technology, the competition is becoming tougher day by day in every field; it has become virtually impossible to run any business without advertising about it. However, I agree to a large extent that the merits of advertisements cannot outweigh its demerits.

The first argument can be, it compels a person to buy a particular product because of repetitive advertisements. Companies bombard slogans into the consumer’s mind through media and hoardings, which leads people into buying that product not because of its quality but because of their push-marketing strategies. One more side-effect of advertisement is that many a time alluring offers prove to be just marketing gimmicks used by rapacious corporations to deceive customers and consumers. For example, during festivals, most of the companies launch some discount schemes, but before giving the discount, they generally hike prices of things, which disappoints people.

Another less welcoming side of advertisement is that it can make shopaholic people more obsessed with unnecessary shopping. The big hoardings sight of advertising sales of jewellery, watches and smartphones which pester shopaholic people with their frequent shopping sprees, though their possessions are brimming with a lot of treasure trove. Nonetheless, there are also some positive sides of advertisement which cannot be ignored. It helps a business to develop and spreads awareness among people of the newly launched products and various promotional schemes introduced.

To conclude, it can be said that the pros of advertisement used are fewer than the misuse these days and so there should be some control done on them.

[259 words]

Outweigh (v): to be greater than something [synonym: outnumber, outperform, outdo]

Virtually (adv): almost

Alluring (adj) : attractive [synonym: tempting]

Deceive (v): cheat [synonym: con, fleece]

Shopaholic (adj): enjoying spending more time and money on shopping

Pester (v): trouble or annoy (someone) with frequent or persistent requests or interruptions 

[synonym: harass]

Treasure trove (n): valuable things that are often hidden

It is a matter of discussion whether a town is the best place to bring up children or the city life has something worthwhile to offer. There are some merits and demerits of both the areas

The benefit of raising children in the countryside is that they live in the lap of nature, so the value of flora and fauna is imbibed naturally. Another advantage is the pollution-free environment and fresh fruits and vegetables which contribute to the health and a robust immune system. The most significant point is, the children are bred with affection and social ethics which makes them disciplined and responsible citizens. However. unlike the metro children, they become shy and incompetent with the world, considering the required pace and agility. Also, their diffidence restricts them from opening windows to opportunity in spite of the ability.

On the other hand, the quality of education in metropolitan areas tends to be superior. The scope of learning through a range of academic and non-academic learning programmes induces multiple skills required to sustain the stiff competition in the market. Students get the opportunity to explore their talents because of the hi-tech infrastructure, sports facilities, dance and music academies and others. At the same time, the city life is highly competitive, so people lead an uncertain and stressful lifestyle. Security and loneliness become some other threats to the city-dwellers.

To conclude, growing up in rural areas can be positive for the aesthetic self and health in childhood, but metros offer a better opportunity to develop talent and boost a growing personality.

(260 words)

worthwhile (adj): valuable. important

lap of nature (phrase): close to nature, exposed to natural habitat

flora and fauna (noun): plants and animals

Imbibed (verb): absorb. soak up, take

robust (adj: strong

ethics (noun): morality, principles

incompetent (adj): unskillful, unprofessional

agility (noun): to move quickly

diffidence (noun0: hesitancy, modesty, shyness

opening windows to opportunity (idiom): there is an opportunity

induces (v): generate, produce

stiff (adi): hard, rigid

aesthetic (adj: the appreciation of beauty

It is a fact that watching too much TV and excessive exposure to the internet can make children aggressive. Nonetheless, the influential factors are more wide-ranging than television alone.

A significant reason for unruly behaviour among children, especially teenagers, is the desire to belong to a group. In today’s world, such acceptance comes. with the things one flaunts. For example, if friends go to school by bike, a child also wants the same and pesters his parents. When his desire is not satisfied, he throws a tantrum. Once parents submit to such behaviour, it may become a habit. So the peer pressure and the pampering done by the parents, makes a child misbehaving.

Furthermore, the generation gap plays a major role. This has caused a gulf between paradigms of parents and children. There are certain sets of behaviour which are acceptable to the young generation but abominable to the old generation. To illustrate, staying out till late night may be typical for youngsters but it seems to be a severe blight to the past age

Shielding children from undesirable influences is undoubtedly a tall order but not an impossible task. Parental control and development of self-identity are required to manage peer pressure. Children should be taught with desirable values and morals. The undeniable presence of generation gap and difference of opinion have to be tackled wisely by the attempt to adjust and accept from both sides

In short, TV and media should not be mistaken to be the only factor influencing children negatively but some other factors are also to be blamed which can be controlled by taking some preventive measures.

(271 words)

submit (v): not to be able to fight an attack, illness, temptation etc

pester (v): to annoy somebody by asking them something many times

tantrum (n): a sudden short period of angry, unreasonable behaviour especially in a child

gulf (n): a large difference between two people

paradigm(n): a typical example or pattern of something

abominable (adj): extremely unpleasant and causing disgust

blight (n): something that has a bad effect on a situation, a person’s life or the environment

shield (v): to protect somebody from danger

tall order (idiom): a very difficult task

Nowadays, the increasing rate of overweight children and adults is a worldwide health issue. Obesity is a significant threat engulfing young children in its vice-like grip.

The leading cause of obesity is eating unhealthy foods. It is often seen that most children are fond of pizza, burger and coke which are readily available to them in the shops and school canteens. Moreover, with both parents away at work in many homes nowadays, takeouts or ready-to-eat foods are a convenient choice. These foods are high in carbohydrates and low on nutrition contributing to weight gain and related diseases, obesity being just one among them. Additionally, a seat-bound lifestyle intensifies the overweight problem. Due to technological advancement, children spend most of their time either watching television or playing video games on the computer. This has reduced the level of physical activity in youngsters.

This problem can be resolved primarily by adding nutritious value to meals, both at home and at school. Vitamins, minerals, and roughage must be consumed in regular quantity. Parents involvement is required to ensure and regulate healthy eating habits in growing children. Physical exercise through sport should be compulsory at school. Also, the awareness for healthy eating will result in the best. So, banning junk foods and fizzy drinks and replacing them with milk, fruits and fresh juices must be encouraged wherever and whenever possible.

As they say, “You are what you eat”, parents, school and the state have to work hand in hand to create and nurture the healthy eating habit and the will among children to grow into a sound, healthy adults full of vim and vigour.

(270 words)

engulfing (v): absorb, engross, soak up

vice-like (adi): very firm hold, a very strong pain fond of (adj): liking for. love of

seat-bound (adj): inactive, Sedentary

roughage (n): fibrous, indigestible material in vegetable

banning (v): block, stop, prohibit

fizzy (adj: carbonated, gassy, bubbly

you are what you eat (phrase): it is important to eat healthy to be healthy

work hand in hand (idiom): work closely with a common goal

vim and vigor (n): energy, enthusiasm, strength

Technology has become a part and parcel of our lives nowadays. We have become so much habituated to using technology that we cannot wean ourselves off it.

To begin with, technology has inextricably interwoven itself into our lives, and most of our jobs at home or work are done with the help of technology.

Moreover, it is evident that we cannot even imagine a day of our lives without any technological support. For instance, a mobile phone, a car, a computer, neon bulb, a lift, a simple stapler or alarm clocks are nothing but an outcome of some technology.

Though some concerns regarding the threats posed by technologies are also not out of place. The technology is giving rise to many problems like over-dependency on the machines for the house and office work. Another risk is rising e-crimes. With the increase in technology, there is a constant watch on all of our activities without us being even aware of it which gives rise to many crimes like identity fraud, cyber theft and so on.

I firmly believe that if we are deprived of technology, a significant number of facilities will stop. I am confident that nobody would like to go back to the Dark Age. For instance, the means of communication and travelling, the accurate computerised diagnosis results and a wide range of data collection in a small storage chip are some of the facilities people would not like to leave

To conclude, the benefits of technology are endless. However, some appropriate measures must be taken to curb its misuse, and with some positive encouragement, we can harness technology for the development of the world

(276 words)

part and parcel (idiom): a necessary feature of a particular experience, which cannot be avoided

wean somebody off something (phrasal verb): to make someone gradually stop using something that is bad for them

inextricable (adi): unable to be separated, released or escaped from

stone age: describes something which is very basic, simple and not well developed

the dark ages: a time in the past considered to be not advanced and when people were unwilling to accept the beliefs or opinions of others

battle (v): fight

curb (v): control

harness (v): to control something, usually in order to use its power

The act of procrastination is profoundly harmful for the effectuation of desired consequences, but at the same time, there is a considerable amount of population that thrives better in the nick of time, under external constraints. There are different ways how different individuals function and in this case, both the views carry strong lines of reasoning.

The outturn of stress may be positive for some people, and there is an affirmative chance that they might be all the more productive under moderate pressure. Consequently, employers categorise this as an employee skill as work conditions are prone to abrupt variations which might require quick time management abilities clubbed with quality labour over shoddy work. The so-labelled procrastinators prove to be more prompt in making accurate decisions than the ones who are threatened by advancing deadlines and unforeseen adverse conditions

Although this tendency might not be a complete hoax, there may be significant odds that many use this as a cover-up for their slothful attitude and put away tasks until it is too late. Moreover, these might be the populace who may not produce the desired outcome and fail to deliver to the ever approaching deadlines. The procrastinating hypothesis can also be applied to explicate that despite the fired up action can bring about better results, who is to say that the remaining time will suffice.

To a significant degree, the inclination to postpone given work to the eleventh hour can be a drawback. However, to label a whole horde of people as procrastinators is unfair bearing in mind that these might be the favoured ones.

(264 words)

procrastination (n): the action of delaying or postponing something

effectuation (v): to cause or bring about (something) into effect or operation

thrives (v): prosper; flourish

nick of time (phrase): just before the last moment when something can be changed

constraints (n): a limitation or restriction

shoddy (adj): badly made or done

hoax (n): a humorous or malicious deception

slothful (adi): lazy

hypothesis (n): a supposition or proposed explanation made on the basis of limited evidence as a starting point for further investigation

explicate (v): analyse and develop (an idea or principle) in detail

the eleventh hour (idiom): Just in time; at the last possible moment

All professions, ultimately enrich a nation’s economy and facilitate its development. However, because of some circumstances and preconceptions, some professionals such as sportsmen are paid heftily, whereas teachers, doctors and other professionals are paid less which, in my view. is not justifiable

The first factor to be considered is, despite the hard work and significant contribution to a country, the doctors, engineers and teachers are not rewarded wisely. After a great deal of tribulation, a teacher shapes the citizen of a nation and makes him capable of contributing towards the nation’s progress Similarly, a farmer ploughs his field to feed the people of the country, and if he drops his plough, thousands of stomachs will remain empty. Surprisingly, farmers, masons, plumbers, electricians and other professionals are treated as minions who have no say in the system.

On the other hand, no doubt, sports bring fame, but the achievements of sports competitions are nothing but a few world cups and medals, which cannot be used even to sip tea from or to feed the poor. Moreover, nobody has ever heard of any country dying because its sportsmen stopped playing. Some sports enthusiasts argue that sportsmen deserve more money because they take the risk and compromise their leisure time. Also, they do not have a regular job However, it is known that sportsmen line their pockets by match-fixing and other such malpractices. I take such incidents as an unpardonable humiliation of a nation.

In conclusion. I firmly believe that the massive amount of money being forked out for sportsmen is gravely unjustifiable and government ought to make better use of its coffers

(270 words)

facilitate (v): to make an action or a process possible or easier

pre-conceptions (n): an idea or opinion that is formed before you have enough 

information or experience [synonyms: presumption, assumption]

hefty (adj): (of an amount) large

tribulation (n): great trouble or suffering

minion (n): an unimportant person in an organisation who has to obey orders, servants

have no say (idiom): have no opportunity to express themselves

line your pockets (idiom): to become richer by taking unfair advantage of a situation

unpardonable (adj): that cannot be forgiven [antonyms: forgivable, pardonable, and excusable

fork out (phrasal verb): spend [synonym: splash out, shell out]

gravely (adv); seriously

coffers (n): all the money that a government or an organization has available to spend

In this technology-driven world, a lot of tasks are performed by machines resulting in a sedentary lifestyle. Consequently, playing sports does not remain only a hobby anymore, but has become a mandatory ritual of our daily regime. Playing sports can pose some dangers, but I believe, playing no games will be more dangerous.

Playing sports is the best way to keep the body and mind healthy. Now that people do not walk to work and many household chores are done by machines, people have little scope to exercise or to burn calories naturally, and surplus calories cause obesity Considering the modern lifestyle, playing sports is the most suitable form of exercise for fitness. It is also an effective way to release stress and anxiety.

Furthermore, playing sports inculcates sportsmanship and discipline. Some team sports teach us time management, agility, teamwork and coordination, which are important life skills. Besides, it also teaches us a positive attitude to realise that playing a sport with maximum zest is as important as winning.

Every defeat teaches us a skill to avoid our mistakes and galvanises us into ardent striving for our victory.

On the other hand, some people avoid sports for fear of injury or risk to life. However, playing a sport carefully can avert any fatal injury. Though the apprehension is reasonable to some extent, I think abandoning sports altogether will be a disaster.

Thus, playing a sport is not as much a risk as avoiding it since a life without physical activity for fitness is already posing a threat for the current generation.

Sport is enjoyable with a dual benefit for its sake and also for a healthy mind and a healthy body.

(281 words)

mandatory (adj) : compulsory

surplus (adj): more than what is needed or used

agile (adj): able to move quickly and easily [synonym; nimble]

zest (n) : enthusiasm [synonym: zeal, fervour]

galvanise (v): to make some somebody take action by shocking them or exciting them

ardent (adj: very much enthusiastic [synonym: passionate]

strive (v): to try very hard to achieve something

avert (v): to stop [synonym: prevent]

fatal (adj): causing death [synonym: deadly, lethal]

abandon (v): to stop doing something

In this modern world, success is evaluated by the education and profession an individual possesses. In spite of having jobs, people still aspire to get further education in order to better their prospectives. Although the exponents of regular education have vociferously expressed their misgivings about it, the concept of distance education is gaining popularity. Both the ways of gaining education have certain similarities and differences.

First of all, considering the similarities, the purpose of conventional education and distance education is imparting knowledge. The students in both the study styles are provided with quality study material which helps them in understanding and interpreting the course easily and in learning what they need.

Such acquired knowledge helps students transform themselves and become skilful with a prestigious degree to fetch better job opportunities.

However, there are some differences between both study patterns which create a gulf. The unique selling point of distance education is its flexible learning. In other words, as the learning and earning can go hand to hand, so for the students, attaining a degree without giving up the current job is possible. Whereas, with conventional education, this is not possible. Conventional education too has its own benefits as it is imparted through regular classes which provides an extensive and strong understanding of the course. Apart from this, it offers personal interaction and customised guidance to strengthen the concepts and develop a bond between students and teachers. Also, the academic environment gives valuable exposure and breeds a healthy competition and teamwork among the learners.

In conclusion, both the ways of acquiring education have their own benefits. The ultimate goal is to gain a higher degree and therefore either can be used, depending on the learners’ needs and situation.

(287 words)

Aspire (v): to have a strong desire to achieve or become something

Exponent (n): a person who supports an idea, theory, etc. and persuades others that it is good [synonym: proponent, advocate]

Vociferous (adi): expressing your opinions or feelings in a loud and confident way [synonym: strident]

The concept of an ideal medium of education varies from person to person due to a range of factors, ultimately influencing the selection of a school for a child. There are various similarities as well as differences between teaching in English medium and in vernacular medium

Firstly, focusing on the standard features, the primary objective of both the schools is to educate students with the designed academic structure approved by the education board of the country. The framework in both types of schooling includes a range of subjects and extracurricular activities. Similarly, some values such as tenacity, individualism, liberty and originality are bred in schools. Consequently, a child is imbibed with social manners, dressing sense, body language and courtesy as he functions in a formal environment.

On the other hand, there are certain differences between the ways of learning. A child educated through his mother tongue is more deeply rooted in his own culture. This learning makes him feel a sound affinity with the matrix he lives in, which is indispensable for national integrity. But the negative factor is, instead of a global citizen, he ends up becoming merely a local citizen. While in schools where the medium of instruction is English, students naturally get exposed to western thoughts and culture. Thus, students own a broad outlook toward life. However, some less favourable traits are entrenched in students through such education, especially when the medium of instruction is given undue importance, those students become snobbish and phoney and are confronted with culture clash.

Hence, though both the types of schooling are different and have their pros and cons, we can get the best of them by focusing on the objective and judiciously modifying these two systems of education.

(288 words)

tenacity (n): the determination to continue what you are doing

imbibe (v): to receive and accept information, etc

affinity (n): liking or sympathy for someone or something

matrix (n): the set of conditions which provides a system in which something grows or develops

entrench (v): to establish something, especially an idea or a problem, firmly so that it cannot be changed