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Academic IELTS Essay Questions of 2015 (January to June)

Academic IELTS Essay Questions of 2015 (January to June)

(These questions will give you an idea about the nature of questions you can expect in IELTS exams in the near future. Please practice and analyse these questions patiently.)

1. Many people believe that international tourism has negative implications on their countries. What are the reasons for it? What can be done to change the negative attitude towards international tourism?

2. People prefer to watch foreign films rather than locally produced ones. Why do you think this happens? Should the government support local film makers financially?

3. Modern technology has a great impact on our environment. Some say that people should adopt a simple lifestyle to solve this problem, while others argue that the technology itself should provide a solution. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

4. Some people think that governments should invest more in public services instead of wasting money on arts such as music and paintings. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

5. Some people say that having many TV channels is good, while others argue that it reduces the quality of programs. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

6. Some people believe that the radio is the best way to get news, while others believe that TV is better for this purpose. Discus both views and give your opinion.

7. Some people believe that students should be allowed to evaluate and criticise their teachers to improve the quality of education. Others think this is disrespectful to teachers. Discuss both views, give your opinion and include relevant examples.

8. Nowadays in some countries the numbers of children aged 15 and younger are increasing. What are the current and future effects of ever increasing population?

9. Some people think that teenagers who commit crimes should be treated the same way as adult criminals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

10. All around the globe every year many animal species become extinct. However, some people feel that governments should be concerned more with solving the problems of human life. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

11. Some people say the most important thing about being rich is that it gives you the opportunity to give back to the society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons for your answer.

12. Nowadays more and more older people compete with younger people for the same jobs. What can be the reason for this? What would you suggest as a solution?

13. Some teachers tend to reward students with high academic results. Others, however, support and reward students that improved their grades. Discuss both approaches. Give your opinion and provide examples.

14. Internet contains a lot of information, however, sometimes this information is inaccurate or wrong. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

15. Some people think that excessive use of mobile phones and computers badly affects teenagers’ writing and reading skills. Do you agree or disagree with the statement? Give your opinion.

16. Some people think that children should learn to obey and do as parents and teachers say. Others think that this kind of upbringing will not prepare our children for real life. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

17. Some people believe that history is very important and we must study the past to understand the present. Others say that it has little or no use at all. Discuss both views, give your opinion and support it with relevant examples.

18. Some people consider sport to be their carrier and role in the society. For others it is mostly a workout to keep fit. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

19. Sometimes celebrities get invited to international aid events. Do you think that such events deviate from their main purpose by inviting famous people?

20. Some parents think that childcare centres provide the best services for children of pre-school age. Other working parents think that family members such as grandparents will be better carers for their kids. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

21. Some people say that public libraries should be free, otherwise they are just a waste of money, especially because modern technologies and the internet allow easy access to resources. Discuss and give your point of view.

22. A recent study showed that both developed and developing countries prosper because of the economic growth. People from developing countries are happier than before while people from developed countries are not as happy as they were in the past. Why is this happening? How can this situation be improved? Give your opinion including relevant examples and your own experience.

23. Some people believe that the government should pay for and offer housing to people who lost their homes or cannot afford them. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your own opinion. Use specific reasons and examples to support it.

24. In many countries there are people with extremely high income. Some say it is good for the country, while others claim that governments should limit salaries. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

25. Some people believe that the use of mobile phones in public is as annoying as smoking and should be banned, similarly to smoking. Give your opinion and examples from your own experience.

26. Some people say that noise made by people should be strictly controlled while others say they should be free to make noise without limitation. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

27. Some people say that mobile phones should be banned in public places such as libraries, shops and public transport. Do you agree or disagree?

28. Many people think that too much attention and resources are given to protection of wild animals and birds. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

29. Some people think that children should have some classes outside their schools, visiting local companies or public enterprises for some real life experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your opinion.

30. Museums and historical sites are mainly visited by tourists, not the local people. Why is this so? What could be done to encourage more local visitors? Please include relevant examples from your own knowledge and experience.

31. Most leaders or directors generally belong to an older age group, but some people believe that young leaders are better. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give your own opinion.

32. Some people think that the government should fund music, dance and arts lessons for children. Others think that they should be funded by private businesses or by children’s families. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

33. Nowadays scientists and tourists can travel to remote natural environments such as the South Pole. What are the advantages and the disadvantages of this development?

34. Some schools agree that fast food restaurants and supermarkets can promote their products in school and that schools benefit from it. Is it a positive or a negative development?

35. Some people are reducing their walks, however many health experts say that walking is the best exercise to maintain health. Why do people walk less? What might encourage people to walk longer distances?

36. Some people think that they can make as much noise as they want, while others think that the amount of noise people make should be strictly controlled. Discuss both views and include your own opinion and examples.

37. Many people think that the government should spend money to explore life in the outer space, while others think that it’s a waste of public money. Discuss both views and include your own opinion and examples.

Nursing in Ireland

അയര്ലിണ്ട് മലയാളീ നെഴ്സ്സുമാരുടെ സ്വപ്നഭൂമിയാണ്‌. നല്ല കാലാവസ്ഥയും, ഉയര്ന്ന് വരുമാനവും, സ്വദേശികളുടെ സൗഹൃദപരമായ പെരുമാറ്റവും നമ്മുടെ നാട്ടുകാരെ ഈ രാജ്യത്തേക്ക് വളരെയധികം ആകര്ഷി ച്ചിരിക്കുന്നു. പക്ഷെ പലപ്പോഴും ഈ സ്വപ്നങ്ങളെല്ലാം ഉയര്ന്നു ഐ. ഇ. എല്‍. റ്റി. എസ്സ്(IELTS) സ്കോര്‍ എന്ന കടമ്പയില്‍ തകരുന്ന ഒരു അനുഭവമാണ്, പലര്ക്കും ഉണ്ടായത്. 

ഐ. ഇ. എല്‍. റ്റി. എസ്സ്(IELTS) നു, മൊത്തത്തില്‍ 7 മാര്ക്കും്, റൈറ്റിംങ്ങ്(writing), സ്പ്പീക്കിംഗ്(Speaking) തുടങ്ങിയവക്ക് 7 ഉം, റീഡിംഗ്(reading), ലിസ്സെണിങ്ങ് (LIstening) തുടങ്ങിയവക്ക് 6.5 ഉം ഉണ്ടങ്കില്‍ മാത്രമേ അയര്ല ണ്ടില്‍ നേഴ്സിംഗ് ബോര്ഡ്ന രജിസ്ട്രേഷന്‍ ലഭിക്കുകയുള്ളൂ.

എന്നാല്‍ കുറഞ്ഞ മാര്ക്കുഭള്ളവര്ക്കും ഇപ്പോള്‍‌ അവസ്സരമൊരുങ്ങിയിരിക്കുന്നു. അയര്ല്ണ്ടിലെ പ്രശസ്തമായ കോര്ക്ക്ങ യുനിവേര്ഴ്സ്സി ട്ടി, പല തരത്തിലുള്ള കോഴ്സുകള്‍ ഇന്ത്യയിലെ നെഴ്സ്സുമാര്ക്ക് നല്കു ന്നു. അതോടൊപ്പം തന്നെ, യുനിവേര്ഴ്സ്സി ട്ടിയുടെ സമീപത്തുള്ള നേഴ്സിംഗ് ഹോമുകളില്‍ ആഴ്ചയില്‍ 20 മണിക്കൂര്‍ പാര്ട്ട് ടൈം ജോലി ചെയ്യാനും, അവസ്സരമുണ്ട്. അവധിക്കാലം മുഴുവന്‍ സമയം ജോലിയില്‍ ഏര്പ്പെ്ടാം. കൊഴ്സ്സ് കഴിഞ്ഞ്, ഒരു വര്ഷവക്കാലത്തേക്ക്, വര്ക്ക്പ പെര്മിടറ്റു ലഭിക്കും. കഴിഞ്ഞ വര്‍ഷം പോയവരുടെ അനുഭവങ്ങള്‍ അറിയുവാന്‍ നിങ്ങള്‍ക്ക്‌ അവരോടെ നേരിട്ട് സംസ്സാരിക്കാനുള്ള അവസ്സരം ഉണ്ട്. എല്ലാവരും തന്നെ വളരെ സന്തോഷത്തിലാണ്.

ഫീസ്‌ മാത്രം ഇപ്പോള്‍ അടച്ചാല്‍ മതി. ജീവിത ചിലവിനുള്ള തുക, അക്കൌണ്ടില്‍ കാണിച്ചാല്‍ മതി. ഒരു വര്‍ഷത്തേക്കുള്ള ഫീസ്‌, താഴെ കൊടുത്തിട്ടുണ്ട്.

ഇതോടൊപ്പം തന്നെ IELTS പഠിച്ചു, രണ്ടു വര്ഷിത്തിനുള്ളില്‍ പാസ്സാകുവാന്‍ ട്രെയിനിംങ്ങും നല്കു‍ന്നതാണ്. ഇതിലൂടെ നിങ്ങള്ക്ക്് അയര്ലാണ്ടില്‍ ഒരു രജിസ്ട്രേഡ് നേഴ്സ്സ് ആകുവാന്‍ സാധിക്കാവുന്നതാണ്.

Course Name Duration IELTS Fees (Euros)
BSc Nursing 1 year 6.0(min 5.5 in each module) 6500
MSc Nursing 1 year 6.5 (min 6.0 in each module) 8250
Doctorate of Nursing3 years 6.5 (min 6.0 in each module) 6000/yr

അടുത്ത സെപ്റ്റംബര്‍ ബാച്ചിലേക്കുള്ള അട്മിഷന് ഉടന്‍ ബന്ധപ്പെടുക:
0481 2302247, 09496652472

CAREERFLYT STUDY ABROAD
GRACE PLAZA, ABOVE METHIYADI
SASTRI ROAD, KOTTAYAM, KERALA, INDIA
0481 2302247, 09496652472
careerflyt@gmail.com, www.careerflyt.com
IMMIGRATION TO CANADA, STUDY IN CANADA, UK,
IRELAND, AUSTRALIA, NEWZEALAND, US, IELTS&HAAD

Essay 64 (Expedtions to Difficult Regions)

Nowadays many scientists and tourists would like to travel to remote natural environments, such as the South Pole.  Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

An increasing number of people today explore difficult and distant terrains, either to visit these places or to conduct scientific researches.  Although people do face a great deal of hardships during these activities, it has greater advantages both for the travelers themselves and the society as a whole.

To start with, it would be greatly enjoyable for people who like adventurous travel and novel experiences.  They not only take great delight in preparing physically and psychologically for such demanding expeditions but also experience a sense of achievement in completing the task.  A few examples would be, climbing difficult terrains like the Himalayan Mountains, expeditions to the Polar Regions or even the recent space voyages offered for common people.

Again, scientific expeditions to these regions have also benefitted human society to a great extent in terms of studying the many unknown facts about the earth and the universe. For example, scientists to the Polar Regions of the Antarctica and the Arctic have conducted various experiments on climate change and given us valuable information about how the melting of the polar ice can affect the earth.

On the other hand, many people have questioned the huge financial commitments made by governments in conducting such expeditions, especially for scientific purposes.  For instance, many social economists point out that maintaining space and polar stations would cost enormous amount of money but the net results usually do not justify the expenditure incurred.  Moreover, the risks involved in travelling to dangerous and distant terrains are enormous and many people have lost their lives due to extreme cold, difficult landscapes and lack of provisions.

In conclusion, despite certain objections, the curiosity and passion for people to travel to distant and difficult regions of the world have only increased.  It clearly reveals man’s innate desire to conquer the unknown.  Although it involves a certain amount of risks and financial commitment, it has greater benefits for man.

Essay 63 (Field-trips in schools)

Some people believe that children should have important lessons other than classes in a schools, that is, visiting local businesses or public buildings.

To what extend do you agree or disagree?

Many progressive schools today often try to provide more innovative learning experiences to children by taking them to local commercial establishments or public buildings where they would be exposed to a great deal of practical knowledge.  This practice, I think, would be a significant opportunity for them to acquire skills and information which are not usually available in a school environment.

To begin with, classroom learning can sometimes be tedious and access to ideas and knowledge in nonverbal and practical ways can make learning creative, fun-filled and more effective.  For instance, while visiting a historical museum children can see and handle real objects and experience artefacts like coins, inscriptions and utensils of the ancient times.  These experiences would reinforce their study of history and help them to recall information more easily.

Furthermore, field trips to local businesses can introduce pupils to direct interaction with objects of learning, which are not easily available in schools.  For example, a visit to a local fish market can introduce children to various species of sea and river fishes, learn their names and identify them.

However, sometimes children can take fieldtrips more as a recreational activity rather than an innovative learning experience.  This can defeat the very purpose of such trips, and therefore some parents are sceptical about such activities in school.

In conclusion, although field trips from schools offer a certain amount fun, most children benefit greatly from such educational tours.  Therefore, school authorities should encourage children to visit local businesses or public buildings in order to make education a more creative and interesting activity.

Words 260

Graph (Employment Patterns in Britain)

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The two pie charts below show some employment patterns in Great Britain in 1992.

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

Write at least 150 words.

The pie charts make a comparative study of the proportion of males and females  employed in 6 broad categories, divided into manual and non-manual occupations.

Among the women the highest proportion was engaged in clerical or related work, which was closely followed by other non-manual employments.  On the other hand, managerial and professional jobs were the most popular occupations with men at 36% and clerical positions were selected by only an insignificant 9%.  A considerable portion of males also were interested in craft or related jobs and other manual labour, accounting for half of the total men-folk.  In contrast, the only major manual occupation that women took up was other manual labour at 27%.  Other non-manual professions were not very popular among both males and females.  The least percentage of workers both categories were general labourers.

In conclusion, more women performed non-manual occupations, whereas a greater percentage of men preferred manual jobs. 

Employments: jobs/professions/occupations/work/positions

Percentage: proportion/ratio/portion

Female: women

Employed in: engaged in/occupied in/involved in/took up

Significant: substantial/important

Select: prefer/choose/opt for

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Essay 62 (Govt. Funding for Performing Art Students)

IELTS Essay Question, Kottayam 29/1/2015

Some people believe that training courses of performing arts (eg. dance, music, drama etc.) should be funded by government.  Others believe that they should be done through other ways (eg. business or student’s family).

Discuss both view and give your opinion.

There is a view that government should provide financial support to talented students who intend to pursue a career in performing arts such as dance, music or theatre.  However, many people believe that taxpayers money should not be wasted for this purpose and students should look for sponsorship from other sources like corporates or their own families.  This essay examines both opinions.

On the one hand, state funding for students of performing arts is one of the best ways to conserve arts and culture, which is a major responsibility of the government.  This is very relevant today as the number of students opting for careers in such disciplines is declining and government’s patronage in this area would encourage an increasing number of students to choose performing arts. For example, the government of Kerala in India provides free training to art aspirants in traditional performing art forms of the state like Kathakali, Mohiniyattam and Thullal, at a prestigious art-school called Kerala Kalamandalam. This initiative from the government has played a major role in generating interest in young Keralites in traditional performing arts of the state.

On the other hand, critics contend that since it is mostly students themselves who benefit from art education they should seek aid from other sources such as corporate funding and their own parents. For instance, like any other professionals musicians, dancers and actors also earn large sums of money from stage shows and other public performances. They also believe that since enormous amounts of money is required to fund art education, it would become an unnecessary liability as the government has more important priorities to deal with.

A close examination of both views reveal that it is important for government to sponsor art education because many parents are not financially capable of shouldering this responsibility and corporate funding is often impractical.

In conclusion, although it may be a serious financial obligation, government should not hesitate to support art students financially because safeguarding the cultural traditions of a country is one of it’s primary responsibilities.

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Essay 61 ( Commericialisation of Schools)

Some schools agree that fast food restaurants and supermarkets can promote their products in school and that schools benefit from it. Is it a positive or a negative development?

Today, a number of schools, especially in the developed countries allow corporate advertisements of fast foods and supermarkets and in this way they try to raise funds for schools activities.  This practice, in my view, is disadvantageous for school children.

To start with, showing commercials of fast foods, chocolates and similar products or making them available within school premises would reinforce children’s taste for such foods.  This can increase problems like obesity and other health issues among children.  For example, if hamburgers, fried meats and sweet beverages of brands like Mcdonalds or KFC are available in school cafeterias children would definitely have a tendency to consume them on a regular basis, instead of opting for healthier alternatives.  

Similarly, exposure to constant commercial messages within the academic environment can create a materialistic attitude in children.  For instance, if schools promote advertisements of children’s products like toys or computer games from supermarkets through educational materials, billboards or school television, children would think that they have the approval of teachers and school authorities.  Consequently, they may force their parents to buy the advertised products, when they visit supermarkets. This is a very obvious example of how commercialisation of schools can promote materialistic attitude in children.

On the other hand, some principals do not believe that children are unduly influenced by commercialisation of schools and they consider it advantageous to them, as a way to improve school facilities.  To cite an example, some corporates help financially strapped schools to buy library books or improve sports facilities for promoting their products inside the campus.

In conclusion, despite minor advantages, corporate commercial campaigns within school premises has greater negative influence on children as they would promote unhealthy habits and materialistic attitude in them.

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Essay 60 (Criteria for a country's progress)

Economic progress is often used to measure a country's success. However, some people believe that other factors are more important. What other factors should also be considered when measuring a country's success? Do you think one factor is more important than others?

Financial status is mostly considered an important yardstick to assess the development of a nation.  However, many economists argue that a number of other criteria should also be given importance.  Among them, I believe education is the most significant.

To begin with, educated citizens in various professional sectors and scientific fields can be a major symbol of a nation's progress.  For example, scientists, engineers and technicians spearhead research and development, and industrial growth in most advanced countries.

Furthermore, effective health care sector can be an important measure to gauge a countries's development.  To explain, only a truly progressed nation can ensure efficient universal health care facilities for its citizens.  For example, the life expectancy of advanced countries in Europe, America and Asia is the highest, due to the availability of latest medical procedures, health care personnel and medicines.

Finally, scientific development in agricultural sector is a vital benchmark of progress.  This means that in most advanced nations, the highest level of agricultural production is achieved using the latest technology and minimum manpower.  For example, mechanised farm implements, high yielding seeds, highly effective fertilisers and other scientific methods practiced in these countries ensure maximum yield from agriculture.

I believe, the advancements in education is the most important indicator of the comprehensive development of a country.  The main reason is, only with the help of educated professionals in all fields, including healthcare, agriculture and industries can a country achieve success.

In conclusion, there are varied ways to measure the progress of a nation, but education is the most significant aspect, because all the other sectors depend on it.

Essay 59 (Life on Other Planets)

Some people think that government should invest money to study life on other planets, while others say that it is waste spending money on such things when earth itself has lot of problems.  To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Space agencies in many countries are now taking great efforts to find signs of life on other planets.  However, certain people think that it is unreasonable to waste money and efforts on such futile projects, when there are more serious issues left unsolved on our own planet.  I support the latter view.

To begin with, it is improbable/unlikely that there is any life on other planets and spending for this purpose would be a very unwise use of taxpayers valuable money, which would be better spent on human welfare.   For instance, NASA has been investing billions of dollars over the last couple of decades in space shuttles and telescopes to spot traces of extraterrestial life, with hardly any positive results, whereas the social security system in the US has been severely affected due to such unreasonable spending.

Moreover, looking for evidence of life on other planets would be of little use to human beings, except for experimental purposes.  Money used for expensive space expeditions should be deviated/diverted towards human welfare schemes such as education, healthcare, housing and social security.  For example, the government of India spent many billions of rupees on the recent Mars project, whereas a major proportion of Indian population is still below poverty line.  The success of this mission did enhance the prestige of India, but hardly benefitted the nation in any other ways.  Countries like India should not waste money in discovering life on Mars, but spend it for alleviating poverty or improving the basic infrastructure of the nation.

In conclusion, spending on expensive space programmes to search for extraterrestrial life is not worthwhile, while many problems on earth are left unattended.

Essay 58 (Technlogy in Solving Crime)

There is a decline in crime rate today as technology helps in preventing and solving crime. How far do you agree or disagree?

Scientific inventions are increasingly used these days by law enforcement agencies to deal with criminal activities.  This, in my view, has definitely helped in reducing crime.

To start with, many law breakers have been dissuaded from illegal activities as anti-theft electronic gadgets have been installed in most crime prone places.  This would either warn the presence of burglars and thieves or help to trace them.  For example, security alarms and cameras have brought down burglaries in banks, and x-ray machines and metal detectors in airports have greatly reduced crimes like smuggling and hijacking.

Similarly, in the recent times scientific methods and devices have been successfully used in solving crimes more efficiently.  An ideal example would be, the use of finger printing, DNA testing and lie detection technology in identifying culprits and bringing them to justice.  These technologies have definitely discouraged  many criminals from committing offences.

On the other hand, criminals have also devised methods to evade anti-crime gadgets and technologies and therefore some people say that technology has not helped in reducing crime.  Criminals, for example, now use masks at crime scenes to hide their identification from security cameras, and researchers have discovered that a significant proportion of criminals trick polygraph tests and act innocent.  Despite these minor drawbacks, we need to acknowledge that the use of technology has played a very crucial role in tackling crime in various ways.

In conclusion, technology today has greatly revolutionised crime prevention and detection, which has resulted in the reduction of illegal activities in many parts of the world.

Essay 57 (Online Shopping)

Nowadays on-line shopping becomes more popular than in-store shopping. Is it a positive or a negative development? Give your reasons and examples.

Recently, the number of people who purchases various products and services online is increasing more than ever before. This has certainly affected the business of shopping centres to a great extent. However, I consider this development as positive, due to a number of reasons.

To begin with, e-shopping is generally considered to be more convenient for customers than in-store purchasing. Perhaps, this is because many people, nowadays, are unable to find adequate time to go shopping as they are too busy with professional or personal responsibilities. For example, virtual shopping websites such as, E-bay and Amazon provide a wide range of products online, which cater to the needs of individuals from the comfort of their home. Moreover, such shopping sites have considerably reduced major inconveniences associated with shopping, like traveling to far away shops, parking vehicles in crowded cities and spending a considerable amount of time.

Furthermore, online shopping allows people to select from a wide range of products, and the prices and features of products are often compared. This has enabled customers to choose the right products that suit their needs. For instance, popular online shops in India, namely Flipcart and Jabong have not only provided detailed information of their products on sale, but also customers' opinions and reviews on their product experience. Besides, placed orders on these websites can be altered or canceled by customers, and purchased products can also be returned if they do not meet the assured quality.

Shopping, however, is a social experience for certain people and many of them enjoy shopping as leisure or entertainment. But, popular shopping websites often compete with stores with lower prices and discount sales. This has also influenced many people to purchase products online.

In conclusion, online shopping offers greater benefits to customers when compared to in store purchasing. Clearly, while it converts shopping into a hassle free experience, shopping over the internet is increasingly convenient, too. Therefore, I think this is definitely a positive trend, and the popularity of online shopping is likely to continue.

Essay 56 (Relevance of the print media)

More and more people are using computers and other forms of gadgets for reading information.  Therefore there is no need to print books, magazines and newspapers on paper.  Do you agree or disagree?

An increasing number of people depend on modern electronic gadgets to gather information and the relevance of the printed media is often questioned today.  However, I am convinced that printed books, magazines and newspapers will continue to attract people for a number of reasons.

Firstly, despite many improvements in technology, reading information on electronic gadjets is still physically stessful.  Therefore, even people who like the convenience of electronic readers or computers prefer printed books or magazines for serious or long reading.  For example, students and researchers often experience problems like headaches and strain in the eye, when they engaage in prolonged reading on electronic devices.  This clearly indicates that printed reading materials will continue to be used by many people in the future.

Secondly, many popular books and magazines will not be published electronically, because publishers fear that they can be pirated easily.  For instance, people download unathorised copies of ebooks through various torrent sites, and it is a huge revenue loss for publishers.  The non-availbility of ebook versions of many popular books and magazines would force readers to depend on printed aleternatives.

Finally, reading a printed material is part of the daily routine of majority of people over a long period of time and it is not easy to break that habit easily.  Moreover, even today a large number of young people are also acquiring such behaviours.  For example, most men in my home state, Kerala, India have the habit of reading the printed newspaper along with their morning coffee.  We have not witnessed a major decrease in this practice in the recent times.

In summary, despite the growing popularity of electronic reading devices and materials, the printed media still remain relevant for a variety of reasons.  Therefore, printed books, magzines and newspapers will continue to attract people for a long period of time.

Collocations

information:

collect/gather/access - information

disclose/exchange/impart/provide/supply - information

habit:

acquire/develop/fall into/form/get into - a habit

break(yourself of)/get out of/ give up/kick - a habit

Essay 55 (Customs not required)

Many customs are traditional behaviours are no longer required in the modern society and therefore they are not worth keeping.  To what extent do you agree or disagree?

People all over the world try to preserve their traditional practices and ways of life, but sometimes many of them seem irrelevant in the present day social life.  Hence, I believe that it is not beneficial to follow them in today’s context.

To start with, some of the age old practices, especially of certain conservative societies are discriminatory to women and would further distance them from the mainstream of society.  For instance, women in India fold their hands as a gesture of greeting when they meet a person, whereas men shake hands.  Traditionally, holding a man’s hand was often considered as an audacious act and an immodest behaviour by women.  However, in modern workplaces in India women increasingly prefer to shake hands with men as a more warm gesture, which can reduce the distance between them and their male colleagues.  This clearly shows the irrelevance of some of the traditional practices in today’s society.

Furthermore, many behavioural patterns of the past do not respect personal freedom and expect individuals to obey the commands of the older member of the family or community.  For example, formerly, in many countries father insisted on his son to choose his own profession or an employment of the former’s preference.  In modern society, children have a variety of career choices and most people think that it is better to leave such decisions to children themselves.  This would ensure that their aptitudes are taken care of and individuality is respected.

In conclusion, it is not beneficial t continue with many traditional customs and ways of behaviour as they do not help modern ways of living.

word count: 269

Essay 54 (Changing Places Frequently)

IELTS Essay Question in Qutar on 6th Dec.

In the past people used to live in one place in their whole life. Nowadays people live in several different places during their life. What are the reasons for this change? Is it a positive or a negative trend?

Unlike in the past, there is an increasing tendency among many people to change their place of residence frequently for various reasons.  This, in my opinion, is advantageous to people in many ways.

One of the major reasons for this shift is the frequent transfers of employees in large business organisations on account of promotions or for other reasons.  For example, multinational software companies like Microsoft and Google have development centres in different parts of the world and employees are often asked to relocate to different cities or even countries depending on the requirements in various projects.

Another important reason for people's periodic movement, is their desire to enjoy better economic prospects.  This would mean that they move to different parts of the same country or even other nations for superior salaries or business opportunities.  An ideal example would be, the movement of unskilled labourers from the northern Indian states of West Bengal, Orissa and Assam to southern states of Kerala and Karnataka.  They often shift from cities to cities for better wages and favourable working conditions.  Similarly, many Indian professionals travel to and live in the different Arabian Gulf nations due to higher salaries offered by companies in this region.

Positively, many people have been greatly benefitted by frequent relocation, in terms of improving their economic status and lifestyle.  Moreover, they have been able to enjoy the experience of meeting new people, cultures and opportunities.  Finally, it has made individuals more self-reliant, open-minded and bold.  However, some feel that those who relocate often, need to deal with problems like unfamiliar languages, unfriendly climate and racism.  Nonetheless, the experience of majority of people prove that it generally has a positive impact on the lives of people.

In summary, many factors have influenced people to live in different places during their lifetime.  Despite certain drawbacks, it definitely has been advantageous to majority of them both economically and socially.

Essay 53 (Fathers as Homemakers)

Nowadays more and more fathers look after their children at home, while mothers are doing fulltime work. What are the reasons? Is it a positive or negative development?

In the recent times, an increasing(growing) number of men stay(remain) at home and care for(look after)their children, whereas(while) women engage(are involved) in fulltime jobs and earn for the families.  A number of factors have led to this situation, and, this trend, in my opinion, is greatly desirable(acceptable).

One of the major reasons for this shift(change) in gender roles is the unemployment of many men especially due to frequent occurances of conomic recession in many parts of the world.  This has resulted in many men staying(remaining) at home and providing for the needs of their children, while women continue to earn for the family.   For example, the dot-com industry suffered(experienced) a major meltdown(recession/collapse) in the United States a decade ago and the majority of employees who were laid off were men. It was not easy for them to find an alternative employments and many of them stayed at home and looked after their kids.

The rise in women's earning power, is another factor, that has led to this situation.  This would mean that many women draw(earn) bigger salaries than men and it is often more reasonable(logical) for them to save(avoid) the expenses of babysitting than going for a job.  For instance, women who work as business executives, doctors and lawyers usually earn huge(enormous) salaries, whereas their husbands may not be well-paid.  If they have two or three kids, it is financially more viable for their husbands to look after their children at home than spending on a nanny.

On the other hand, many people think that men are forced to become homemakers mostly due to economic reasons and therefore their self-esteem can be affected. Nonetheless, it is increasingly being considered as a positive development by majority of people because it has helped to rectify conventional attitudes and raise women's morale(self-esteem).  Moreover, children would be more comfortable being cared by their father than a nanny.

In conclusion, it is mostly economic reasons that has led to the recent increase in the number of male homemakers.  It definitely has greater advantages for the society and therefore should be appreciated.

Essay 52 (Contact between Countries)

Some people say that the increasing business and cultural contact between countries is positive development, while others think that many countries will lose their national identities as a result. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

The growing global business relationships and interaction between various cultures have resulted in greater economic development and better understanding between people across the globe. However, some people believe that such developments have led to the degradation of the individual identities of many countries.

On the one hand, the establishment of large international businesses firms has created a great number of jobs for the educated and skilled youth in many underdeveloped countries. For example, the arrival of software and outsourcing companies like Google and Accenture from the United States have created enormous jobs for engineers in India. At the same time, these companies have been able to reduce the cost of their operations by relocating to less expensive locations of the world.

Similarly, today people in many countries are able to enjoy music, dance, theatre and other cultural practices of other countries. This has helped them to appreciate other cultures and it has often become a positive impact on their own cultures. For example, western music and movies are very popular in many parts of the world, and in India films and film music have been greatly influenced by the technical advancements of the west. At the same time, Indian spiritual and cultural practices like yoga and meditation have been extensively practiced by many westerners, especially in the recent times.

On the other hand, People's food and dressing habits and entertainment options are dominated by international business firms, whereas traditional lifestyles becoming unpopular. This has led to the internationalisation of culture directed by multinational companies. This is evident in the increasing popularity of fast-foods like Pizzas, Burgers and fried meats of multinational chains like KFC, Pizza Hut and MacDonald. In contrast, many traditional dishes are becoming less popular or even extinct all over the world.

In conclusion, although we need to acknowledge that globalisation has resulted in a certain loss of cultural identities, it has enormous benefits in terms of economic development and cultural evolution of the world. Therefore, from a broader perspective, accepting such changes can only be considered as a positive development.

Essay 51 (Changing Locations)

It is common that people change their locations more frequently than in the past. What are the reasons? Is it a positive or negative development?

Unlike in the past, an increasing number of people are relocating to different cities and countries for various reasons. This movement, in my opinion, in general, has a positive impact on their life.

One of the major reasons for this movement is that these days, many professionals do not find jobs that suit their qualifications in their own hometown or country. Whereas large cities and industrialised countries offer them lucrative employment opportunities and obviously they would be encouraged to migrate to such places. For example, many young graduates from rural India and small towns have moved to the metropolitan cities of India, like Bangalore and Mumbai, where multinational companies and large industries provide them appropriate jobs. In addition, for changing jobs and inter-organisational transfers people relocate more often these days.

In addition, a growing number of people today move to more developed regions and countries for life style changes like better education, shopping opportunities and cosmopolitan environment. Migration to countries like Canada and Australia, for example often come under this category. Also, people with lower income sometimes shift to less expensive cities, where house rentals and educational expenses are more reasonable.

Although leaving familiar environments, friends and relatives is often a painful experience, mostly it has a positive impact on the lives of individuals and families. They often gain in terms of economic betterment, professional development and lifestyle improvevent.

In conclusion, due to several reasons professionals, business men and even common people need to move to newer locations more than ever before. This definitely is greatly advantageous to them despite minor inconveniences.

Essay 50 (Exam Stress and Creativity)

Most education systems rely on examinations to encourage children to study, but as a result, children suffer from too much stress and they never learn to be creative.  Therefore, exams should be abolished.  To what extend do you agree or disagree?

As a method of motivating students to take education seriously, examinations do exert a certain amount of stress on them.  However, this does not affect their creative development and hence, there is no need to abolish examinations.

To start with, unlike common perception, examinations these days are not all about rote learning and memorising, but also encouraging children to research and form their own opinions about various topics.  For example, in language and literature examinations children are often asked about their views about  a novel or poem.  This encourages them to read books more seriously and develop their own perspectives.  Similarly, in science practical examinations, students are required to conduct experiments and arrive at new findings.  Activities like these clearly show that examinations can enhance the creative abilities of children.

Moreover, even if examinations result in a certain level of anxiety or pressure, it should only be considered reasonable as they would inspire students to work harder to have a sense of achievement.  In other words, a fair amount of tension helps children to make greater efforts for achieving higher grades or marks.  Researches have proved that stress can produce favourable chemicals in the body, like adrenalin to help body to aim higher.

On the other hand, examinations do lead to excess stress in certain children, which is mainly due to lack of preparation or pressure from family members or teachers to perform well.  Moreover, a certain amount of rote learning is involved in examinations which can reduce the creativity of children to some extent.  Nonetheless, proper guidance and counselling can help children to handle their exam related anxieties successfully.  Moreover, more innovative ways of conducting tests to reduce the need for memorising can help children to enhance their creative abilities.

In conclusion, it unreasonable to ban examinations because they play a very vital role in helping children to approach studies with greater earnestness.  It also helps to develop their imaginative expressions rather than suppressing them.

Recent IELTS Essay Questions

Nowadays more people are choosing to live with friends or alone rather than with their families. This trend is likely to have a negative impact on communities.

Happiness is considered very important in life.
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?

In some parts of the world it is becoming popular to research the history of one's own family. Why might people want to do this? Is it a positive or negative development?

Families who send their children to private schools should not be required to pay taxes that support the state education system.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Nowadays celebrities are more famous for their glamour and wealth than for their achievements, and this sets a bad example to young people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Should governments make decisions about people's lifestyle, or should people make their own decisions?

Early technological developments helped ordinary people and changed their lives more than recent developments. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Nowadays it is easy to apply for and be given a credit card. However, some people experience problems when they are not be able to pay their debts back. In your opinion, do the advantages of credit cards outweigh the disadvantages?

Throughout history, people have dreamed of living in a perfect society. However, there is still no agreement about what a perfect society would be like. What, in your opinion, would be the most important element of a perfect society? What can people do to help create an ideal society?

Governments should not have to provide care or financial support for elderly people because it is the responsibility of each person to prepare for retirement and support him or herself.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Foreign visitors should pay more than local visitors for cultural and historical attractions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Many people say that we now live in 'consumer societies' where money and possessions are given too much importance. 
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Economic progress is often used to measure a country's success. However, some people believe that other factors are more important. What other factors should also be considered when measuring a country's success? Do you think one factor is more important than others?

The subjects that children are taught in schools are decided by central authorities. Some people say that teachers, not politicians, should be responsible for this task. To what extent you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Some people think that governments should give financial support to creative artists such as painters and musicians. Others believe that creative artists should be funded by alternative sources. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Nowadays animal experiments are widely used to develop new medicines and to test the safety of other products. Some people argue that these experiments should be banned because it is morally wrong to cause animals to suffer, while others are in favour of them because of their benefits to humanity.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

After leaving school or university, young people should choose a job or career that they love, rather than one that pays the best salary. To what extent do you agree with this statement?

n the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this cause for individuals and society? Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations.

Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

What other measures do you think might be effective?

Some people regard video games as harmless fun, or even as a useful educational tool. Others, however, believe that videos games are having an adverse effect on the people who play them. In your opinion, do the drawbacks of video games outweigh the benefits?

More houses are needed in many countries to cope with increasing populations. Would it be better to build houses in existing towns and cities, or to develop new towns in rural areas?

There are many different types of music in the world today. Why do we need music? Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard everywhere nowadays?

The role of prisons should be to punish criminals who have committed serious crimes. Training courses and education offered to prisoners are a waste of taxpayer's money. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In many countries nowadays, young single people no longer stay with their parents until they are married, but leave to study or work somewhere else.
Do you think this trend has more advantages or disadvantages?

Some people think that all teenagers should be required to do unpaid work in their free time to help the local community. They believe this would benefit both the individual teenager and society as a whole.
Do you agree or disagree?

The range and quality of food that we can buy has changed because of technological and scientific advances. Some people regard this change as an improvement, while others believe that it is harmful.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Some people think that universities should provide graduates with the knowledge and skills needed in the workplace. Others think that the true function of a university should be to give access to knowledge for its own sake, regardless of whether the course is useful to an employer.
What, in your opinion, should be the function of a university?

Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be enjoyable.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that people make? Has this been a positive or negative development?

These days people pay more attention to artists (writers, painters and so on) and give less importance to science and technology.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it. This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life.
To what extent do you agree with this view?
What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working life?

In many cities, security measures, such as the use of video cameras in public places, are being increased in order to reduce crime, but some people believe that these measures restrict our individual freedom.
Do the benefits of increased security outweigh the drawbacks?

We cannot help everyone in the world that needs help, so we should only be concerned with our own communities and countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between equality and personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in egalitarian societies. Others believe that high levels of personal achievement are possible only if individuals are free to succeed or fail according to their individual merits.
What is your view of the relationship between equality and personal success?

Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

In some countries, governments are encouraging industries and businesses to move to regional areas outside the big cities.
Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

In the last century, the first man to walk on the moon said it was "a giant leap for mankind”. However, some people think it has made little difference to our daily lives.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In the last century, the first man to walk on the moon said it was "a giant leap for mankind”. However, some people think it has made little difference to our daily lives.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

It is right that university graduates should earn more money than less well educated people, but they should pay the full cost of their education.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Happiness is considered very important in life.
Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?

Universities should accept equal numbers of male and female students in every subject. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people believe that the salaries paid to professional sportspeople are too high, while others argue that sports salaries are fair.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Some people think that museums should be enjoyable places to entertain people, while others believe that the purpose of museums is to educate.
Discuss both views and give you own opinion.

Some people believe that studying at university or college is the best route to a successful career, while others believe that it is better to get a job straight after school.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual well-being.
What factors contribute to job satisfaction?
How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?

Some people think that in the modern world we have become more dependent on each other, while others think that people are now more independent.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Competitiveness is considered to be a positive quality among people.
How does competitiveness affect individuals?
Is competitiveness a positive or negative quality?

Several languages are in danger of extinction because they are spoken by very small numbers of people. Some people say that governments should spend public money on saving these languages, while others believe that would be a waste of money.
Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

Women should have an equal role alongside men in both police and armed forces. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people think schools should group pupils according to their academic ability, but others believe pupils with different abilities should be educated together. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Despite improvements in vehicle technology, there are still large numbers of road accidents. Explain some of the causes of these accidents, and suggest some measures that could be taken to address the problem.

Marriages are bigger and more expensive nowadays than in the past. Why is this the case? Is it a positive or negative development?

Many people say that we now live in 'consumer societies' where money and possessions are given too much importance. Others believe that consumer culture has played a vital role in improving our lives.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Water is a natural resource that should always be free. Governments should ban the sale of bottled water.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

The money spent by governments on space programmes would be better spent on vital public services such as schools and hospitals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Despite huge improvements in healthcare, the overall standard of physical health in many developed countries is now falling. What could be the reason for this trend, and what can be done to reverse it?

More and more people are migrating to cities in search of a better life, but city life can be extremely difficult. Explain some of the difficulties of living in a city. How can governments make urban life better for everyone?

Some people prefer to live in hot climates, whereas others love the lifestyle in countries with cold climates.
Discuss both views and explain which climate you prefer.

Some people believe that the range of technology available to individuals today is increasing the gap between rich people and poor people, while others say that technology has the opposite effect. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

It has been said that the world is becoming a global village in which there are no boundaries to trade and communication. Do the benefits of globalisation outweigh the drawbacks?

Some people think that school children need to learn practical skills such as car maintenance or bank account management along with the academic subjects at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Many criminals re-offend after they have been punished. Why do some people continue to commit crimes after they have been punished, and what measures can be taken to tackle this problem?

More and more students are choosing to study at colleges and universities in a foreign country. Do the benefits of studying abroad outweigh the drawbacks?

Explain some of the ways in which humans are damaging the environment. What can governments do to address these problems? What can individual people do?

Many people believe that parents are not as close to their children as they used to be. Suggest some reasons why this could be true.

Can you think of any social benefits of immigration? Are there any economic or social disadvantages?

Traffic congestion is becoming a huge problem for many major cities. Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce traffic in big cities.