WRITING TOPICS

1. People argue that advertisements are harmful to society, and for that reason people need to ban
advertising. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
It is regularly argued that prohibition of all categories of advertisement, which are thought to be pointless and
even detrimental, could generate numerous benefits for the community. Notwithstanding, from my standpoint,
social members tend to not only reap advantages but also tolerate demerits from this trend.

On the one hand, it seems undeniable that the ban on multiple kinds of advertisement can be beneficial for
consumers. Forbidding advertising is synonymous with the fact that purchasers may not have to pay a great
measure of money for advertising services included in product prices. This can serve to reduce consumers’
expenditures for shopping. Moreover, no sooner are numerous advertisements exaggerating the functions,
values and qualities of commodities to press citizens to purchase their products prohibited than individuals
may select their items to fulfil their requirements without being adversely affected by the messages in which
the truths related to these goods can have been exaggerated or even distorted.

On the other hand, it would appear that the bar to advertisement services likewise pose untold drawbacks to
the community. The first shortcoming could be the joblessness which employees involved in advertising could
be confronted with, in all likelihood, giving rise to an increase in the unemployment rate. Another
disadvantage might be that this prohibition can keep consumers in ignorance of the latest goods available on
the market. Hence, they may be faced with obstacles in searching for and comparing the quality and price
concerning the products of the same category before deciding to purchase them.

In conclusion, it is my conviction that banning advertisements can wield both desired and adverse effects on
community members.

2. The use of social media is replacing face-to-face interaction among many people in society. Do you
think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
Sample 1:
These days, face-to-face communication is being replaced with online conversations using social media
apps, such as Facebook, WhatsApp or Tumblr. It seems to me that the benefits these technologies have
brought to our lives are overshadowed by their drawbacks.

In terms of the advantages, social networking sites have made it much easier for us to keep in contact
with our loved ones, regardless of geographic location. Students studying abroad, for example, can keep in
touch with their families and friends on a daily basis using the video call features of Skype, Facebook or
various other apps. Social media is also a powerful tool in marketing and business. In this digital age,
companies can keep their clients updated regarding newly-released products or promotions by posting their
campaigns on Facebook or Instagram, which helps save a great deal of time and expense compared to the
traditional methods of advertising in newspapers or magazines.

Despite the above benefits, I personally believe that when it comes to communication, social media does more
harm than good. The overuse of social media reduces the quality of interpersonal communication. Many
people are so addicted to social networking sites that they constantly stare at their screens during dinners
with their families without actually paying attention to the people around them. The frequent use of social
media also affects the style of speaking and writing, especially among young people. These days, many
teenagers have a habit of using abbreviated words, which are frequently used in text messages or in posts on
social media, in their academic essays or formal emails.

In conclusion, for the reasons mentioned above, I am of the opinion that the positive effects that social media
has on our communication are outweighed by the disadvantages.
(written by Nguyen Huyen)

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Sample 2:
Social media has deeply infiltrated into everyone’s life and is believed to be replacing our face-to-face
interaction. This situation, although advantageous in certain aspects, is generally a detriment to true human
communication in the long run.

On the one hand, there are a number of benefits from using social networks to communicate. Firstly, they
facilitate communication in the modern times as now people can globally connect with old friends and
relatives or with others who share common interests. For example, Facebook is currently providing service for
2.4 billion users who can choose to connect and interact with anyone they want, regardless of where they are.
Secondly, study sessions are frequently happening on social networking websites through live streaming
services. Therefore, learners around the world now can have free access to online classes on such sites.

On the other hand, the disadvantages of social media replacing face-to-face interaction are much more
concerning. As these sites are becoming more and more dominant and attract large numbers of new users
every day, people can fall prey to online communication abuse, such as online bullying and harassment. In
fact, social networking websites can become a toxic environment where users can be verbally assaulted
because there are only a few rules, most of which are spoken rules rather than established guidelines, that
restrict hateful or abusive contents. Furthermore, overuse of social media to communicate can lead to people
downplaying the importance of face-to-face interaction on which true human relationships thrive. Nowadays,
many young and reclusive users prefer living in a virtual world on social sites than engaging in real-life
relationships. This may have serious mental effects, such as increased stress, anxiety and loneliness.

In conclusion, the downsides of social media replacing face-to-face interaction are more significant than the
benefits users could reap from those sites.
(www.zim.vn)
Từ vựng liên quan đến chủ đề
 To infiltrate into something: Thâm nhập vào đâu đó/cái gì đó
 To facilitate communication: Thúc đẩy sự giao tiếp
 To globally connect with somebody: Kết nối toàn cầu với ai
 To share common interests: Có những mối quan tâm giống nhau
 Live streaming service: Dịch vụ live stream
 To have access to something: Có thể tiếp cận tới cái gì
 To fall prey to online communication abuse: Trở thành nạn nhân của sự lạm dụng giao tiếp trên mạng
(tạm dịch)
 Online bullying and harassment: Sự quấy rối và bắt nạn trên mạng
 A toxic environment: Một môi trường độc hại
 To be verbally assaulted: Bị tấn công bằng lời nói
 Hateful or abusive contents: Những nội dung cay động
 Reclusive users: Những người dùng không thích sự giao thiệp thực tế (tạm dịch)
 A virtual world: Một thế giới ảo
 To engage in real-life relationships: Tham gia vào những mối quan hệ thực tế
 Serious mental effects: Có ảnh hưởng nghiệm trọng đến sức khỏe tinh thần (tạm dịch)

3. Scientists believe that the world is in danger due to environmental changes. Some people say that
personal lifestyle changes should be made to reduce the damage to environment, while others think that
the government should do something to help. Who should be responsible for protecting the
environment, individuals or the government?
Environmental problems are clearly something that is often discussed in today’s world. One part of the society
claims that individuals should change their habits and lifestyle to improve the ecological situation. Others, on
the other hand, believe that this issue should be solved on the governmental level. I subscribe to the view that
both have a role to play in the protection of the environment.

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It is hard to deny that human kind is responsible for the current environmental situation, and it seems
impossible to achieve any noticeable result in this field without the participation of vast majority of
individuals. For instance, a simple lifestyle change such as introducing the separation of household rubbish
can make recycling projects more convenient and efficient. Moreover, consumers can reduce their usage of
plastic items and, in turn, less plastic waste will contaminate the environment.

However, the government has more tools to prevent environmental changes. One option that the authorities
have is to discourage citizens from using personal vehicles by charging high taxes and additional fees.
Moreover, politicians usually have access to resources to educate people about environmental problems and
promote the most important ecological projects on all levels, ranging from special courses at schools to TV
shows and websites related to this topic. Furthermore, it is a key responsibility of the government to protect
the environment by spending state funds on research and modern equipment. Countries where legislation
protects the ecology, for example Norway, have achieved visible results and overcame most environmental
problems.

In conclusion, I believe that a combined approach will work best to prevent or reverse environmental changes.
A contribution of every individual is just as important as the intervention from the government in order to fix
existing issues and save our planet for future generations.
(www.ieltspractice.org)
4. There has recently been an upward trend in the number of parents sending their children to private
classes. Is this a positive or negative development?
In this contemporary society, an ever-increasing number of parents show a tendency to send their children to
extra classes in order for them to improve knowledge. I subscribe to the view that this trend has both positive
and negative ramifications.

Beyond a shadow of a doubt, there are several redeeming features associated with this situation. Advocates
of this practice argue that teachers may not convey a large amount of the lesson content effectively on account
of the time constraints of in-class periods. Given this, attending additional classes, for poorly performing
ones in a heterogeneous classroom, to keep up with their peers is advisable. Their rationale is that private
tutors can employ suitable pedagogical strategies to help less intelligent students learn more efficiently
under their supervision. With regard to students who pin high hopes on academic qualifications, extra
coaching classes would appear to enhance their cognitive abilities, facilitating comprehensive studies as they
are exposed to advanced concepts. This makes it easier for them to pass the university entrance examination,
deemed a stepping stone to a reasonable career in later life.

The drawbacks of engaging in additional classes merit serious consideration. Skeptics worry that students
allocate an excessive amount of their time to obtain knowledge to the exclusion of their leisure activities. The
corollary of this might pose a threat to students, ranging from escalating stress to health warnings. It is
understandable that being under constant pressure with mountains of books, students may find themselves in
deep exhaustion, which makes them become less physically strong or underperform academically in worse
cases. To further counter, another argument is that children may lack social skills. From a social aspect,
theoretical knowledge alone may not enable students to gain success in today’s job market and step up the
social ladder.

In conclusion, my firm conviction is that children can capitalize on the supplementary knowledge from
private tuition. It is hands-on experience, coupled with the knowledge taught at schools that provides a
platform for students to achieve their desired goals when entering the job market in this fast-changing social
setting. I believe that parents should allow their offspring to participate in extracurricular activities where
they can socialize with their friends and learn some soft skills such as team-working and communication
skills. However, parents should ensure that their children do not overwork themselves and whether children
enroll in private classes should hinge upon their own decision.

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5. Some people believe many celebrities support charities for their own benefits, not for humanitarian
reasons. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
There has been much debate regarding the role of famous people in raising public awareness of major issues.
While celebrities can attract people’s attention to the problems, I would argue that they are likely to make the
problems become less crucial.

To begin with, well-known people can assist international aid organisations in raising people’s awareness of
social issues. Firstly, celebrities can communicate information about big problems to a large audience around
the world. For example, by taking part in the Ice Bucket Challenge in 2014, various celebrities such as Bill
Gates or Mark Zuckerberg have helped the ALS Organisation to let millions of people know about a disease
called ALS. Secondly, since people tend to listen to the ones they admire, famous people are much more
likely to be able to ask their fans to take appropriate actions. For instance, a well-known football player can
ask people to donate money to help homeless individuals.

However, I believe famous people might make the problems become less important. The first reason is that
individuals tend to only pay attention to what celebrities do and say rather than what messages they want to
convey. In the aforementioned example about the Ice Bucket Challenge, many people watched the videos of
celebrities taking up the challenge without actually learning anything about the ALS disease. This makes little
contribution to solving the problem compared to the large number of famous people involved. Furthermore, in
order to attract viewers, well-known people usually try to deliver their messages in a funny and entertaining
way, which might lead to the problems becoming less serious.

In conclusion, while celebrities can contribute greatly to tackling social problems, I believe they are more
likely to make these problems seem less important.
(www.ieltsmaterial.com)
6. Some people think that when a person travels into a different culture they should adapt to the local
practices and customs. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many believe travellers have an obligation to follow local customs. I am in agreement with this sentiment
generally but there are exceptions to this rule where some flexibility is warranted.

Proponents would argue that being culturally sensitive is a sign of respect. The burden of fitting in falls to
the guest because they made the choice to travel to the country in question. For example, following local
traditions is crucial when in certain Middle Eastern countries. Some of the more religious countries enforce
strict restrictions on common western practices like drinking alcohol and dressing freely. To respect the
locals, tourists must modify their behaviour during their stay or risk offending residents and making a bad
impression. If travellers persist in flouting local customs, they are in the wrong as there are many
other more liberal options for international travel.

However, there are meaningful areas where locals must also be receptive to the views of travellers. This can
be broadly grouped into religious and personal beliefs. For example, an individual from a Muslim
country travelling abroad may expect to be allowed to wear a head scarf in public during their visit. This
should be allowed even in situations, such as during the playing of the national anthem at sporting
events in the United States, when people must remove their hats. The same principle applies to personal
dietary restrictions such as those of vegetarians and vegans. If they are in a country where locals primarily
eat meat, they ought to be able to make substitutions and amendments to the menu if possible.

In conclusion, it is typically important to follow the customs of a country when travelling to show
deference but this can be outweighed at times by personal and religious convictions. Individuals should
also be mindful of potential conflicts when choosing a travel destination from the onset.
(www. howtodoielts.com)

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7. Computers and modems have made it possible for office workers to do much of their work from
home instead of working in offices every day. Working from home should be encouraged as it is good
for workers and employers. Do you agree or disagree with this view?
Thanks to advancements in modern technology, people can now work from anywhere including their homes.
In my opinion, this is a beneficial trend and it should be encouraged.

Working from home benefits both the employer and the employee. Most employees who work from their
home use their own equipment for getting the work done. This arrangement benefits the employer because
they do not have to invest in costly hardware or furniture. They can also save money on rentals and utility
bills. The low operational costs will ultimately increase the profit of the organisation. In addition, when
organizations allow employees to work from home at a time convenient to them, they can reduce attrition to a
great extent.

The biggest benefit for employees is the time savings. On average, employees in large cities spend two to
three hours a day for the daily commute. When they work from their home, they can save this time and use it
for other activities. For example, they can spend more time with their family or pursue a hobby. Studies have
shown that employees who get enough time for themselves are actually more productive and happier.
Working from home also benefits young women who quit their jobs to take care of their children. Most of
them will readily return to work if they have the opportunity to work flexible hours from their home.

To conclude, not only employees but businesses also benefit when they allow their workers to work from
home. In my opinion, more organizations should realize the benefit of this practice and promote it.
(www.ieltspractice.org)
8. Some people believe that university students should be required to attend classes. Others believe that
going to classes should be optional. Which point of view do you agree with?
Going to university is a coveted goal for most students around the world. Many parents dream of their
children having the opportunity to receive a university education, as a gateway to a successful future.
Although it is possible to receive a degree without attending classes, in my view, attendance plays a critical
part in the university experience. The bases for my views are educational, social and intellectual.

From an academic standpoint, attending classes simply enables students to learn more. After all, professors do
not simply parrot what is written in university textbooks; they add to this knowledge from their own
professional experience, reading and research. This provides an opportunity for students to receive key
perspectives, as well as relevant and up to date information in their specialized fields. Since acquiring
knowledge and developing critical thinking skills are important goals of higher education, attendance at
classes should be considered a mandatory requirement for graduation.

Socially, university life offers young people the opportunity to form meaningful friendships, relationships and
connections, some of which last for life. One can make good friends or even meet a future life partner while in
college or university. In addition, one’s classmates may become the “movers and shakers” of tomorrow’s
corporations and industries. These important contacts are also made while attending university classes,
studying and partying together.

Lastly, from an intellectual perspective, a student can gain tremendously by matching wits with other bright
students from around the world. In the context of classes, students can discuss issues, exchange views, explore
ideas, solve problems and develop cross-cultural skills through interaction with international students. This
can be a critical experience that helps students define themselves and their political and ideological place in
the world.

In summary, attending university classes benefits students in myriad ways. Broadly speaking, it enables
students to make the best of their years in university. Therefore, it should be regarded as a desirable and
meaningful means to achieving various important life goals.
(www.goodlucktoefl.com)

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9. Employers nowadays put more emphasis on social skills. Some people believe that social skills are
important in addition to good qualifications for a job success. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
These days, a growing number of recruiters are targeting applicants with good people skills as many people
believe that they are just as important as formal qualifications. In my opinion, I firmly agree that possessing
good social skills, apart from academic skills, can give people an edge in advancing their career.

Undeniably, formal qualifications play a critical role in one’s career because they are generally good
indicators of a person’s capability and specialized knowledge. In fact, all employers treasure the intellectual
power of their employees, as it is a valuable asset that can help a company thrive. This is particularly true for
works that involve in-depth research and development such as information technology, computer science, and
medicine. Without technical knowledge, a person stands little chance of being hired, let alone getting a
promotion.

However, having only stellar credentials does not always guarantee one’s career success. In this modern
society, people rarely work individually and often need to rely on others to get the best result. For that reason,
people who have excellent interpersonal skills and the ability to collaborate are more likely to build good
relations with their colleagues and perform better at work. In contrast, those who lack such critical skills may
suffer from isolation or miscommunication and trigger conflict among workers, hindering the overall working
process. In short, people who possess good communication skills can often gain the love and trust of their co-
workers, and stand a higher chance of climbing the career ladder.

In conclusion, I believe that social skills have a strong correlation with career success as they can not only
help a person integrate but also facilitate their working process.
(www.zim.vn)
Từ vựng chủ đề
advance one’s career: phát triển sự nghiệp
get a promotion: được thăng tiến
academic skills: kĩ năng chuyên môn
stellar credentials: bằng cấp tốt
interpersonal skills: kĩ năng làm việc với người khác
collaboration skills: kĩ năng làm việc nhóm
trigger conflict: gây ra mâu thuẫn
climb the career ladder: được thăng tiến
10. Many people argue that in order to improve educational quality, high school students are
encouraged to make comments or even criticism on their teachers. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
Finding ways to improve educational quality is often one of the top priorities in every education system. In
some cultures, high school students are encouraged to give their opinions about teachers, but I believe that this
can also give rise to a lack of respect and discipline in the classroom.

On the one hand, it is true that feedback from learners may contribute to an improvement in educational
quality. In many cases, the level of comprehension of students relies very much, not on the content of the
lesson but on the way teachers conduct it. If, for example, the class is slow, it will be ineffective for teachers
to teach too fast so that most students fail to retain the information. Without the comments of students, it
would be difficult to know whether the speed of the lesson is appropriate for the class, which may eventually
impair the quality of the lesson.

However, there are several drawbacks of allowing students to make comments and criticism on their teachers.
Firstly, teachers can be vulnerable to the negative words of students. Many will feel that their efforts in
delivering the lesson deserve praise rather than criticism or any form of feedback. This idea is commonly
shared by teachers in the education systems of many Asian countries. Secondly, the classroom may be in
chaos due to the massive numbers of comments. Opinions vary from students to students, and it would be
impractical for teachers to work out a way of teaching that can satisfy all students.

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In conclusion, it seems to me that encouraging high school students to comment about their teachers does not
necessarily mean an improvement in education quality.
(www.ieltsmaterial .com)