IELTS Sample - Writing Task 2

(Tài liệu được tham khảo tại: english-exam.org)

#01: Social Media

Đề 1:

Some people believe that social media sites, such as Facebook or Twitter, have a negative
impact on young people and their ability to form personal relationships. Others believe that
these sites bring people together in a beneficial way.

Model answer

New types of technology mean that you can easily connect with people throughout the
world. Many believe that this is harmful and prevents us from forming meaningful
friendships with others, while some people argue that using social media improves our
ability to build new relationships. In my opinion, the negative impact is greater than the
benefits, as I will explain.

Firstly, let us consider what makes a meaningful relationship. Being able to talk and meet
with people is key and this can be done in person in the traditional way, or, increasingly,
online. However, seeing people in the real world is very different from meeting them online.
You can learn more about them and see them at both their best and their worst; therefore,
your relationship is based on more than short text communication.

Many argue that modern social media allows us to connect with a variety of people from
different places and backgrounds, which can be true. Nevertheless, these websites often
lead young people into dangerous situations, for example, they may be bullied because of
how they look. Also, their personal information becomes available to all if they are not
careful and they never really know who they are connecting with.

While it is true that social media sites can be very useful and help us to connect and keep in
touch with others, we need to be careful and not forget that we can only make real friends in
the real world. I personally believe that these are the relationships that last a lifetime.
(256 words)

Đề 2:

Some people believe that social media sites, such as Facebook or Twitter, have a negative
impact on young people and their ability to form personal relationships. Others believe that
these sites bring people together in a beneficial way.

Model answer

Social media is a huge business today and many feel it has changed the world for the better.
Others feel the opposite and worry that we do not connect with people in a good way. I
personally feel that social media is, on the whole, a good thing as it has improved the way we
communicate.

To start with, sites such as Facebook and Instagram mean we can now talk to people from
across the world and find out about different cultures. Some people feel this can be a little
dangerous, as we can’t be sure who we are talking to. however, if we are responsible and
take care, there are lots of benefits. For example, you can make friends with people who you
would never meet in your normal life.

Lots of people say that internet friends are not real friends, and that spending all your time
talking to people on the computer is a waste of your life. Nevertheless, this may be true if
you only communicate electronically, meeting people on the internet can be a way of
overcoming shyness and these relationships can lead to real meetings. Nowadays, it is
becoming more common for people to meet their husbands or wives on the internet.

In conclusion, there are possible problems connected with social media; nevertheless, if you
are careful it can give you many opportunities for friendship that you would not normally
have. If these sites did not exist, however, the world would be a much more boring place.

(252 words)

Đề 03:

Social media is becoming increasingly popular amongst all age groups. However, sharing
 personal information on social media websites does have risks.

Do you think that the advantages of social media outweigh the disadvantages?

Sample answer

Since the invention of social media, many people have been better able to connect with each
other and also to keep up to date with the lives of their friends, families, co-workers and even
celebrities, to such a degree which was previously impossible.

However, social media has its risks. As people of all ages have access to social media,
children can be exposed to adult content, and are themselves vulnerable to be approached
by strangers with unknown intentions. Even if children are sure of who they're talking to on
social media, social media's issues are not completely eliminated. Cyber bullying is
frequently reported in the news, and occurs on social media between children and
schoolchildren. This is problematic, as it means even when children are at home, remote
from their bullies they can still be bullied when they're inside their own homes.

Social media can be problematic for adults, too. People often feel comfortable posting
things on social media that they wouldn't say in real life. This can indirectly cause a bad
impression on other people, and if employers judge the nature of the content prospective
employees post on social media to be inappropriate, it can affect their chances of attaining
or keeping jobs.

As long as people are aware of the risks of using social media, and are careful to post only
respectful and respectable content, then the advantages of social media far outweigh the
disadvantages, and children and adults alike should be allowed to benefit from such
technology.

(250 words)
#02: Shopping
Đề 1:

In the past, shopping was a routine domestic task. Many people nowadays regard it as a
hobby.

To what extent do you think this is a positive trend?

Sample answer

Going shopping used to be a chore, but recently it has become a leisure activity or a pleasant
outing. To my mind, it is debatable whether this can be regarded as a wholly positive
development.

For earlier generations, buying food or consumer products involved visiting several shops,
each with the same limited range on offer. Customers had less money and credit was not
widely available. By contrast, shoppers nowadays can find almost anything in the
supermarket or shopping mall. The comfortable environment, the variety of goods and
attractions such as cafés and cinemas make spending money enjoyable.

Nowadays, with many parents working full-time, families have little time together. In my
experience, it is normal to see families in the local shopping mall at weekends. Undoubtedly,
one of the benefits of this is that they are together as a family. Nevertheless, this is not ideal,
especially if it leaves no time for other activities, such as sport.

Another negative result of this change in attitudes is the effect it has on young people all
over the world, who spend time in shopping malls. The reasons for this are the influence of
advertising and the availability of credit cards. On the one hand, they are with friends in a
safe environment, but on the other, it can tempt them to buy things they do not really need
and may cause them to get into debt. Moreover, it would be better for their health if they met
friends to go swimming.

In conclusion I would like to suggest that although shopping now is less tedious, this is not
necessarily a positive trend. It may be good for the retailers, but not for consumers if it
replaces other, healthier activities. (286 words)
#03: Education
Đề 1:

The education you receive from your family is more important than the education you
receive from school.

To what extent do you agree with this statement and why?

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

Write at least 250 words.

Model answer

Education comes from many places, not just formal schooling. People learn from their
family, their friends, the television and personal experience among many other ways.
Although these avenues of learning are certainly important, I believe that education within
schools is much more important, as it lays the foundations for future achievement and wider
success as I shall show.

Firstly, formal qualifications which are earned at school are often the entry points to certain
careers and jobs. In order to be a lawyer or doctor, you need to do well at school so you can
go on to study for professional qualifications. Additionally, many jobs ask for basic
qualifications in maths and English when you apply. Without these qualifications, an
individual could become limited in what they can do with their professional lives.

In addition to this, school also prepares you for relationships outside your family, which is an
important aspect of life. School is a good socialisation tool because a student needs to deal
with relationships on many different levels, for example with teachers and school friends,
and they also need to deal with threats to happiness such as bullying or workloads.

Families are important as often children gain their moral outlook and aspirational goals from
their parents. However, children can succeed without a favourable family setting to a certain
extent. It is doubtful whether they could succeed without schooling.
In conclusion, although there are many beneficial forms of education, I believe schooling is
more important than education within the family. This is because formal education gives you
qualifications and socialisation that the family cannot offer.

(266 words)

Đề 2:

Many young people choose to take a year out between finishing school and starting
university in order to gain work experience or to travel. The experience of non-academic
life this offers benefits the individual when they return to education.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Model answer

Taking a year off from education between finishing school or college and going to university
is a popular choice for young people. Generally speaking, doing so does not negatively affect
their educational progress and, depending on how the time out is spent, can lead to
invaluable experiences before moving into higher education.

For example, one of the most popular reasons for taking an educational break is to travel,
this offers the student an opportunity to come face to face with different cultures, to meet
new people and in some cases wilt open up new opportunities abroad that may not have
arisen at home. Alternatively, some choose to spend the period in work. This could be in the
voluntary sector, on conservation projects or in paid work, for example as an au pair or even
teaching English overseas. The skills and experiences gained can be extremely useful at
university and when looking for employment afterwards.

However, taking a year out can have its drawbacks. To begin with, it means spending a year
away from studying. Returning to it and regaining the discipline and focus required can be
difficult for some. Additionally, the break can lead to carefully laid plans being blown off
course if attractive offers of work or further travel become available.

Nevertheless. it is probably true to say that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks. The
time spent away from education gives the person the chance to reflect on life and any
important decisions before signing up for a lengthy and expensive period of study. What is
more, the experiences gained during the year out will build self-confidence and maturity,
qualities that will prove invaluable in the years to come.

(281 words)
#04: Pollution
Đề 1:

Many countries are experiencing serious problems with their environment, with pollution
of their land, water and air.

What are these problems and how might they be reduced?

Model answer

Almost every country in the world has problems with the environment, affecting its land, air
or water. I believe the main problems on land are caused by building too many houses, using
up land for depositing rubbish and also the destruction of trees, which leads to soil erosion.

Perhaps the most helpful thing we can do to tackle these difficulties is to try to persuade
governments to stop building on certain areas so that there will be room for more trees. We
should also try to use more 'biodegradable' materials so that they decay naturally and do not
stay in the ground for thousands of years. We should also aim to plant more trees which will
prevent soil erosion.

The ways in which air is affected are as follows. Firstly, by burning so many fossil fuels we
pump large amounts of toxic gases into the atmosphere which leads to harmful climate
change and the destruction of the protective ozone layer. I believe the best way to reduce
these problems is by changing our transport policies: we should use more public transport or
at least try to use more efficient fuels in cars.

The main effects of pollution and other environmental problems on water are the melting of
the ice-caps because of global warming which leads to flooding. There is also contamination
of rivers by harmful chemicals. These can be dealt with if global warming is reduced and
also by such measures as taxing industries which repeatedly pollute our waterways. It is
crucial that these measures are taken in order to ensure a healthy future for our planet.

(266 words)
#05: Travel

Some people think that the increase in international travel has a negative impact on the
environment and should be restricted.

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

Model answer

The volume of international travel is increasing with globalisation and cheaper travel. As a
result, it is argued that the environment is suffering and that restrictions should be imposed
on such travel. I think that international travel does pose some risks for the environment, but
the effects can be mitigated.

There is no doubt that as the number of international travellers increases there is increased
danger of the environment being harmed. This risk comes not only from the growing volume
of flights, but also from the impact of huge numbers of people visiting vital eco systems,
especially fragile areas around the world like Antarctica and the Great Barrier Reef. Another
worrying development is the increase in cruise ships ferrying thousands of passengers
around the world. Therefore, some are calling for international travel to be restricted.

People have always travelled around the world and it would be very difficult to restrict
international travel, especially for tourism and business as it is economically beneficial for
local communities. If people are concerned about the impact of international travel, rather
than trying to impose restrictions, taxes can be introduced to help protect local conservation
areas. Such projects can also provide local jobs and help develop local communities.

Moreover, people nowadays are much more conscious of the impact of international
travelling and seek to offset the impact by paying for the planting of trees for example.
People are also travelling more by railway than in the past as railways become faster, more
convenient and integrated, which reduces any threats to the environment.

As we have seen, there are risks to the environment from increased international travel, but
such travel is important and any risks can be offset by different measures.

(285 words)
#06: Culture
Đề 1:

Some believe that people today have no interest in maintaining the traditional culture of
their country or region. Others believe that it is still important to people that we preserve a
traditional way of life.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Model answer

Today we live in a globalised world and the development of global culture is often at the
expense of local traditions. There are certainly many people that show indifference to local
customs in favour of embracing global ideas, but there are still many who see the value in
maintaining them, myself included.

It is easy to argue that people are strongly influenced by the effects of globalisation.
Technology in particular seems to dominate the leisure time of young people, whether it be
gadgets or the internet. As a result, there are trends which can be described as global in all
aspects of culture. For instance, many people now prefer listening to music by Ed Sheeran or
Beyoncé rather than the traditional music of their country, which is often seen as outdated by
comparison. Similarly, many would rather try exotic 'foreign' foods than use traditional
recipes, which they might see as dull or old-fashioned.

However, it would be a mistake to think that everyone thinks this way. Many people are
turned off by technology, which they see as culturally empty. Older people especially feel
nostalgia for how things used to be done. For example, in the UK, the Royal Family are as
popular as ever, and thousands of people turn out to see them wherever they go. It should
also be remembered that many of today's global pop stars were themselves inspired by
more traditional genres of music. Ed Sheeran, for example, embodies many musical
traditions, such as folk music and busking. In the same way, it is still common to see
performances of more traditional forms of music, such as classical and jazz.

My own opinion is that there is truth in both views. There are certainly people so focused on
global trends that there is no space in their lives for, or interest in, preserving the past. On the
other hand, there are many who prefer to live their lives more nostalgically and value the
traditions that have been handed down. I would say that I belong more to this second group
of people, although I admit I would struggle without the internet.

(354 words)
Đề 2:

Some people believe that a person's culture is defined by their country of origin, while
others believe that has only a minor influence.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Model answer

If we define culture as shared beliefs, values, attitudes and behaviours, it stands to reason
then that a person's country of origin impacts their culture. The question is to what degree. Is
nationality the defining influence or is it just one of many factors in play? Personally
speaking, I would say both arguments have validity, but I would lean towards the latter.

It is easy to understand the ‘defining influence’ argument. If someone is born and raised in a
place, they will be heavily influenced by it. Psychologists refer to this as the ‘nurture
argument’ - you are a product of your environment. For example, if your country's cuisine
uses certain ingredients, your palate gets accustomed to those ingredients, but may struggle
with other less familiar flavours. If your country has a traditional style of music, say, reggae
or rock, all citizens will be exposed to it and, as a result, are more likely to enjoy it.

On the other side of the argument we need to consider the effects of globalisation. Most
people have daily access and exposure to other cultures. The evidence is all around us-
restaurants, films and foreign businesses are ubiquitous. One of the benefits of globalisation
is that it offers us a selection of cultural possibilities to choose from. It is unlikely that you
will find any citizen of a certain country who does not have likes or preferences that come
from outside of their country of origin. In addition, more and more people work, study or
travel extensively away from their home country. Inevitably, these people will be subject to
new influences.

My own view is that while we are influenced by our nationality, in this globalised world, one's
country of origin is only one aspect of our collective culture. We all adopt elements from
other cultures on a daily basis, unconsciously or according to our preferences and
experiences. To my mind, this is what makes the world such an interesting place.

(328 words)
#07: Tourism

Tourism has increased so much over the last 50 years that it is having a mainly negative
impact on local inhabitants and the environment. However, others claim that it is good for
the economy.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of tourism and give your own opinion.

Model answer

Whether or not tourist destinations benefit from international tourism is a debatable issue.
To sonic governments, the local economic benefits are worth the overcrowding and hiked
prices of the tourist season. However, there are environmental and social costs and other
risks of relying on tourism as a major source of annual income.

Sleepy coastal communities can be changed beyond recognition by mass-market tourism.

Package holiday companies operate huge numbers of low-cost flights to high-rise hotels in
developing countries every summer. This means, of course, that easy money can be had
servicing this seasonal influx and the government sees increased tax revenue and local
employment. However, when the tourist season comes to an end, employment ceases and
the area becomes a ghost town. The social cohesion of a small community can also be
blighted by the seasonal migration of people to the cities to look for work out of season,
leaving only the elderly behind. This is perhaps made worse by second home owners, who
drive up house prices beyond the means of local inhabitants.

On the other hand, the local community do gain language skills and other fringe benefits of
cultural exchange. Such a large volume of travellers every year can cause environmental
problems to fragile habitats and historical sites. Age-old stone remains can be worn away
and traditional buildings demolished in favour of bland international hotels. Local
infrastructure can also fail to cope with large numbers of visitors, leading to pollution and
litter. However, over time this can change as the economy improves and tourism becomes
more of an established industry. Local government investment in infrastructure should
ensure repeat trade and further benefits for the economy.
Overall, tourism can be a good source of income for countries blessed with natural beauty or
sites of historical interest. However, governments must ensure that the wishes of local
businesses are not put before the needs of the local community and that any revenue
generated by tourism is reinvested in the area to protect the local environment.

(334 words)
#08: Internet

Students are becoming more and more reliant on the Internet. While the Internet is
convenient, it has many negative effects and its use for educational purposes should be
restricted.

How far do you agree with this statement?

Model answer

Nowadays, the Internet is used widely in education around the world. Some people say it is
beneficial for teaching and learning because there is so much information available.
However, others claim that the Internet is bad for students' research skills and believe that its
use should be restricted. I believe that use of the Internet should be limited in some ways,
but it is still a valuable educational tool.

Firstly, the Internet is essential for many people today. It is widely used in the workplace and
people's everyday lives, both for finding information, for personal finance, for keeping in
touch with friends and family, for social networking and so on. Therefore, school students
should learn how to use it correctly. In addition, students also need it for research in school
and university subjects. Nowadays the most up-to-date information can be found on the
Internet, rather than in books which can become out of date very quickly. Using the Internet
is a convenient way of finding out information and developing independent research skills.

However, the Internet has some negative aspects. For example, not all websites are reliable
or contain accurate information. Students need to learn how to evaluate and check the
material they find on the Internet. Also, many students simply copy large amounts of
material, such as essays from the Internet. Some students then pretend that this material is
their own work, which is illegal. If students simply copy information or material from the
Internet without understanding or analysing it, they will not learn it fully. Teachers need to
teach students how to research and use information from the Internet properly.

In conclusion, schools and universities should teach students how to use the Internet by
teaching them good research skills. If students know how to use the Internet effectively, they
are likely to become better students and have better employment opportunities in the future.
(314 words)
#09: Remote work

Information technology enables many people to do their work outside their workplace (e.g.
at home, when travelling, etc.).

Do the benefits of this mobility outweigh the disadvantages?

Model answer

Mobile technology has become an integral part of our lives, and the existence of mobile
phones, laptops and iPads has altered the way many people work. While there are distinct
advantages to this, it is important to guard against over use and possible detrimental effects
on health and relationships.

One of the biggest benefits of mobile technology is that people no longer have to work in an
office. In fact, many businesses now permit their staff to work from home on some days of
the week. This Is particularly helpful for busy parents; it can reduce stress levels and help
people manage their daily lives better.

Another benefit for many people and businesses is that work can continue outside the office.
Phone calls can be made almost anywhere and documents can be read or written on public
transport or in cafes. This is extremely beneficial for people who have long trips to work.

Despite the advantages mentioned above, care must be taken to ensure that the
convenience of ‘teleworking’ does not lead to more hours on the lob and less time spent
doing exercise or being with friends and family. No one would deny that it is wonderful to be
able to work from home, but a person who spends too much time on their computer may find
that their health suffers in the long run.

On the whole, most people profit from the use of mobile technology, and there are obvious
advantages to its use. However, we need to keep an eye on how much we rely on this
resource, otherwise the disadvantages will be greater for everyone.

(269 words)
#10: Large cities

People who live in large cities face a range of problems in their daily life.

What are the main problems people in cities face, and how can these problems be tackled?

Model answer

These days, more and more of us are living in big cities, and urban conurbations are
expanding all the time. Although cities are very attractive places to live, and they provide a
wide range of work and leisure opportunities, there are also a host of significant social
problems affecting cities.

One of the biggest problems facing people who live in cities is the high property prices. In
many cities, buying a house near the centre is out of reach for people on the average salary,
and they are forced to live outside the city and to commute into work. In downtown
Vancouver, for instance, the cost of even a one-bedroom flat is prohibitive for many people.
To solve this problem, the government could put more resources into building affordable
housing, which would allow more people to buy their own home.

Another issue is the quality and cost of public transport. That is to say, in most capitals,
public transport is inefficient and the infrastructure is old and inadequate. At the same time,
ticket prices are often too high, which puts people off using public transport. The way
forward must be to invest more money in trains and buses, and to slash ticket prices. This
would encourage more people to use public transport.

To sum up, although it is clear that cities face a range of problems, it is undoubtedly possible
to start to tackle these issues, and improve the quality of life in cities. Governments and local
councils must take the lead in dealing with these problems, otherwise city life will only get
worse in the future.

(267 words)
#11: Working from home

In the past, most people used to travel to their place of work. With increased use of
computers, the internet and smart phones, more and more people are starting to work
from home.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development?

Model answer

The way in which we work has changed a great deal in recent years. Whilst some people still
travel to their place of work each day, others have the option to work from home. This has all
become possible since the birth of the internet and smartphones, which enable workers to
be in constant contact with their colleagues and clients all over the world.

There are both advantages and disadvantages to this new development. There are definite
advantages to people being allowed to work from home. The main advantage is that it gives
workers more flexibility in their working lives. This can be particularly useful for parents or
people who live far from their workplace. Working from home is also more comfortable - you
can take a break whenever you need. Another advantage is that you have the possibility to
work for companies in other countries through the use of the internet. Therefore, people can
apply for jobs globally as well as locally.

On the other hand, working from home can also have its disadvantages. Travelling to work
and working in an office with others can be a very sociable activity which many people enjoy,
especially if they live on their own. Without this social interaction many people might feel
very lonely. Furthermore, many people may lack sufficient discipline to complete the work
they need to do without colleagues around.

In conclusion, therefore, there are clearly advantages and disadvantages to working from
home. Perhaps the ideal arrangement would be to spend part of the working week in an
office with colleagues, and part of the working week at home, with a certain amount of
flexibility and comfort.

(277 words)
#12: Computers

We are becoming increasingly dependent on computer-based technology.

How do you think it will change in the future?

Is it good for us to rely so much on computers?

Model answer

It would be difficult to imagine life without computers. Over recent years in particular, their
use and potential have grown at an incredible rate and I strongly believe that this growth will
continue as more innovative ways to use them are developed. Although there are definitely
some downsides to their use, I do believe the positives outweigh the negatives.

Computers enable us to do a wealth of tasks that would have been unthinkable for previous
generations. We can bank online, book holidays, do our weekly shopping - the list of
labour-saving activities is almost endless. Given the speed at which they have evolved and
altered the way we do things, I am convinced that this evolutionary trend will continue. Take,
for example, the rise of virtual reality. We can already do amazing things with it, and, as a
computer-based technology, it is only in its infancy. It has so many practical applications,
from improving gaming to providing training for doctors or pilots to handle real-life
situations. As computer processing power increases, so will its potential to enhance
everything we do.

Despite this, there are dangers in relying quite so heavily on computers. So much of our daily
lives is controlled by them, that without them, modern-day life as we know it would be
impossible. Furthermore, computers store all our important data and the risk of hacking
exposes us to crimes such as fraud. However, I would argue that the technological advances
made possible by computers have improved our world in so many ways. I believe that most
people would argue that that any negative aspects of computers are outweighed by all the
benefits they have brought.

In conclusion, I believe we will probably become more dependent on computers but that our
lives will improve as the technology improves. While there is a negative side to such a
dependency, there are many more positives that we can focus on.

(318 words)