Recent IELTS Exam Topics: Writing & Speaking

Essay Questions (May/June) 🔹 The media should include more stories which report good news. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think the government should not spend on international aid because there are disadvantaged people in their countries, such as the unemployed and homeless. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The international community should take action immediately to ensure that all countries reduce the consumption of fossil fuels, such as gas and oil. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The growth of multinational companies and the resulting rise of globalisation create positive effects for all. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Full-time students should spend a lot of time on studies, but they should be involved in other activities too. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that employers should not be concerned about the way their employees dress, but the quality of their work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is a waste of time for high-school students today to study literature (e.g novels and poetry) that were written many years ago. To what extent do you agree with this statement? 🔹 In the past, lectures were used as a way of teaching large numbers of students, but now, with the development of educational technology, many people believe there is no justification for attending lectures. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is the responsibility of schools to teach children good behavior in addition to providing formal education. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Countries should produce enough food for their own population and import as little as possible. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Some people say that it is better to teach language students in small classes, whereas others think the number of people does not matter. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In some countries, a few people earn extremely high salaries. While some people think that this is good for a country, others believe that salaries should be controlled by the government to limit the amount people can earn. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Directors of large organisations receive much higher salaries than ordinary workers. Some think it is necessary while others think it is unfair. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 In many different countries, shops and products are the same. Some people think it is a positive development, while others believe it is a negative development. Discuss both the views and give your opinion. 🔹 Young people are highly influenced by famous people and they look up to them as role models. Is that a positive or negative development? 🔹 In the past, parents used to give their children a great deal of freedom. Parents today, however, tend to be much more restrictive. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Advertisements are becoming more and more common in everyday life. Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹 Some countries have an ever-increasing proportion of the population who are aged 15 or younger. What do you think are the current and future effects of this trend for those countries? 🔹Many criminals commit more crimes as soon as they are released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest? 🔹 Mobile phones and the internet could have many benefits for older adults. However, this age group uses technology the least. What are the benefits for older adults of using mobile phones and the internet? How can we encourage them to use this new technology?

📌 Speaking Topics May—August 2023 📌 Part 1️⃣ Topics ● Work and studies ● Home, Hometown ● Colours ● Cakes ● Sunglasses ● Social media ● Collecting things ● Crowded places ● Being bored ● Singing ● Advertising ● Celebrities ● Money ● Video games ● Memory ● T-shirts ● Breakfast ● Space and Stars ● Numbers ● Keys ● Chocolate ● Jewellery ● Small businesses ● Sharing things ● Staying at home ● Morning routine ● Mobile phone

Essay Questions (April/May) 🔹 Since most information about culture and history can be found online, museums and art galleries are no longer needed. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Team work is better for a future life compared to working on you own. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people are becoming seriously overweight. Some people say that the price increase of fattening foods will solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 World would be better place if more women were in leadership positions. To what extent you agree or disagree? 🔹 In many countries today, the eating habits and lifestyle of children are different from those of previous generations. Some people say this has had a negative effect on their health. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? 🔹 Some people think that dangerous sports should be banned, while others believe that people should be free to do any sports or activities. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people argue that to make healthy foods like fruits and vegetables more affordable, they should be subsidised by the government. Others believe that it is better to tax unhealthy foods. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that robots are very important to humans’ future development, but others think that they are dangerous and have negative effects on society. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think technology development decreases crime, while others believe it actually encourages crime. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Directors of large organizations earn much higher salaries than ordinary employees do. Some people think it is necessary, but others are of the opinion that it is unfair. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In many countries, a few people earn extremly high salaries. Some people believe that this is good for the country, while others think that goverments should control salaries and limit the amount people can earn. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In some societies, obesity is regarded as a major problem. Some people believe that junk food advertising is largely to blame for this problem and should be banned. However, others feel that junk food advertising does not contribute to the problem of obesity and should not be banned. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people say that reducing the maximum speed limit is the best possible solution to road safety, while others believe that it is not an effective solution, and there are many other factors which can contribute to road safety. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In many cities, planners tend to arrange shops, schools, offices and homes in specific areas and separate them from each other. Do you think the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays, the quality of life in large cities is decreasing. Why is this happening? What can be done to solve this problem? 🔹 Many criminals commit further crime as soon as they are released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest? 🔹 Modern lifestyle has made it harder for people to live a healthy and active lifestyle. What are the causes of this situation? Suggest what can be done by the government and large organizations to improve it.

Essay Questions (April/May) 🔹 The growth of multinational companies and the resulting rise of globalization create positive effects for all. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Parents should encourage their children to spend less time studying and more time doing physical activities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the increasing use of computers and mobile phones in communication has negative effects on young people's reading and writing skill. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Most of the urgent problems can only be solved with international cooperation. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Being good at mathematics depends on a person's natural ability as well as the quality of teaching they receive. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way to get people to use their cars less is to make them pay a road toll to drive on busy roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Some people think that it is good for a country's culture to import foreign movies and TV programmes. Others think that it is better to produce these locally. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Scientists believe that computers will become more intelligent than human beings. Some people find it is a positive development, while others think it is a negative development. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 In some countries ordinary citizens are allowed to keep a gun in their house. Some people think this is a good idea, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Advertisements are becoming more and more common in everyday life. Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹 Young people are often influenced in their behaviors by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important, while others feel it has distinct disadvantages. Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages? 🔹 Nowadays people expect to get things such as news, products and services instantly and do not want to wait. What are the reasons? Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Throughout history, people dream to live in a perfect society while they haven't agreed what the ideal society would be like. What is the most important element you think makes a perfect society? What should people do to achieve an ideal society? 🔹 In many countries, young people who finish high school do not know how to manage their money. What are the reasons for this? What should be done to improve their skills to manage their money?

Essay Questions (April) 🔹 Individual greed and selfishness have been the basis of modern society. Some people think that we must return to older more traditional values such as respect for the and the local community in order to create a better world to live in. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people find themselves at risk of obesity. Some people say that raising the prices of fast food will solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people are becoming seriously overweight. Some people say that the price increase of fattening foods will solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think technology development decreases crime, while others believe it actually encourages crime. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think most crimes are the result of circumstances like poverty and other social problems. Others believe that they are caused by people who are bad in nature. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that science should be part of everyone’s education, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the best way to become successful in life is to get a university education, whereas others say this is no longer true. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some companies have a policy of employing people from different age groups. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 With the increasing demand for energy sources of oil and gas, people should look for sources of oil and gas in remote and untouched natural places. Do the advantages outweigh disadvantages of damaging such areas? 🔹 These days many young people are spending less time doing outdoor activities such as hiking, mountain climbing, and enjoying nature. What are the reasons for this? How can we encourage them to do more of these activities? 🔹 Some countries have an ever-increasing proportion of population who are aged 15 and younger. What is your opinion of the current and future effects it may have in those countries? 🔹 Many young people do not spend their holidays and weekends doing outdoor activities like hiking and climbing in natural environments. Why is this the case? How can they be encouraged to go out?

Essay Questions (April) 🔹 Nations should spend more money on skills and vocational training for practical work, rather than on university education. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Globalization is positive for economies but its negative sides should not be ignored. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Transporting large amounts of food to richer countries from the developing world is having an impact on air pollution and climate change. Some people say such imports should therefore be reduced. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? 🔹 Some people think that science should be part of everyone’s education, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Many people believe that it is easier to lead a healthy lifestyle in the countryside. Others believe that there are health benefits to living in cities. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that advertising may have positive economic effects. Others think it has negative social effects because advertising makes individuals less satisfied with what they are and have. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that some individuals are naturally good leaders while others think individuals can learn leadership skills. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 In developing countries, some people think governments should introduce new technology for people in order to improve the quality of life, while others believe governments should offer free education. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Due to the increase in population in big cities more and more people are living in small houses with very little or no outdoor space. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 In some countries, there is not enough recycling of waste materials (e.g. paper, glass and cans). What are the reasons and solutions? 🔹 In some countries, young people have little leisure time and are under a lot of pressure to work hard for their study. What do you think the causes and what solutions can you suggest? 🔹 Successful companies use advertisements to make more sales. What can make an advertisement effective? Do you think advertisements are a bad thing or a good thing for the society? 🔹 Nowadays, many people spend their free time watching movies. Why do they do that? Is it a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Nowadays, men sport is given far more attention in the society than women sport. What are the reasons? Do you think is it a positive or negative situation?

Essay Questions (March/April) 🔹 Most employers nowadays put an increasing emphasis on social skills. Some people believe that social skills are essential in addition to good qualifications for job success. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that the main aim of advertising is to improve sales of products that people do not really need. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that the typical teaching situation of a teacher and students in the class will not exist by the year 2050. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that local news is more important than international news, while others argue that news from around the world has more significance. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the success of life is based on hard work and determination. Others, however, believe that there are more important factors, such as having money or a good appearance. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In this technological era, personal information is stored on computers by many companies and organisations. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Some cities have vehicle-free days when private cars, trucks, and motorcycles are banned from the city center. Public transportation like buses, taxis, and metros are advised. To what extent do you think the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 The world has many towns and cities constructed in previous centuries that were more suitable and livable for people in those times than they are now. What problems will this cause? What can be done to solve these problems? 🔹 Doctors in many countries are saying that people are not getting enough physical exercise. What are the causes of this and how it can be addressed? 🔹 Nowadays, not enough students choose science subjects at universities in many countries. What are the reasons for this problem? What are the effects on society? 🔹 Nowadays, people travel to other countries for holidays. Why do people want to do so? Is it a negative or positive trend for the countries they travel to? 🔹 Many young people do not know how to manage their money when graduating high school. What do you think are the reasons? What can be done to teach them this important skill?

Essay Questions (February/March) 🔹 When asked to choose between a life without work and working most of the time, most people would choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the news media has become much more influential in people's lives today and it is a negative development. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that children's leisure activities must be educational; otherwise they are a complete waste of time. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that violence on television and in computer games has a damaging effect on the society. Others deny that these factors have any significant influence on people’s behavior. What is your opinion? 🔹 Some people see sports only as a leisure activity, while others believe sports play a more important role. Discuss both views and give your option. 🔹 Some people think that students should study in their own city, however, many students prefer to study far away from their home. Do the advantages of studying away from home outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 The world has many towns and cities constructed in previous centuries that were more suitable and livable for people in those times than they are now. What problems will this cause? What can be done to solve these problems? 🔹 Competitiveness is a positive quality for people in most societies. How does competitiveness affect individuals? Is it a positive or a negative trend? 🔹 The youth crime rate is rising rapidly in many countries. What are the reasons for this trend? What can parents and teachers do to solve it?

Essay Questions (February) 🔹 Some people think students should volunteer to do unpaid work to benefit the community. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Large companies should pay much higher salaries to Chief Executive Officers (CEOs) or Company Presidents than to their employees. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 To improve children’s life, mothers and fathers should attend parenting and child development courses every year. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say it is better to be unemployed than work a job you dislike. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Everybody should donate a fixed amount of their income to support charity. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The media should include more stories which report good news. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that dangerous sports should be banned, while others believe that people should be free to do any sports or activities. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that friends have a bigger impact on young people while others think parents and teachers influence them more. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the government should be responsible for funding healthcare and education of the country, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that studying at college or university is important for a successful career. Others think that it is better to quit school and find work to gain experience for a successful professional life. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that anyone can create art, such as painting, poetry, music, etc. Others think that a person should have special abilities to create art. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people say that what children watch on television influences their behavior, while others say the amount of time children spend watching television influences their behavior. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people like to spend their leisure time with their colleagues, while others prefer to keep their private life separate from their work life. Is it a good thing to spend leisure time with a colleague? 🔹 Some people say patriotism causes problems and is negative overall. Others feel that it is beneficial for society at large. Do the advantages of patriotism outweigh its disadvantages? 🔹 Eco-tourism often involves visiting remote and fragile ecosystems, which raises concerns about the impact on local cultures and indigenous communities. What problems can this cause? How can these problems be resolved? 🔹 Fewer and fewer people today write by hand using a pen or pencil. What are the reasons for this? Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Many adults nowadays prefer spending their free time playing computer games. Why do they do this? Is this a positive or negative development?

Essay Questions (January) 🔹 The leaders or directors of organizations are often older people. But some people say that young people can also be a leader. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In today’s digital age, anyone with a smartphone can capture and share photographs. this accessibility to photography diminishes the value of professional photographers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In the future it may be necessary for us to live on other planets. For this reason, some people believe that we should spend money now to research other planets, such as Mars. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some say that reading newspapers and watching TV news is a waste of time, because it has no direct connection with people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Shops should not be allowed to sell any food or drinks that have been scientifically proven to be bad for people’s health. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Young people’s use of computers and mobile phones to communicate has a negative impact on their reading and writing skills. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the best way to succeed is to get a university education, while others disagree and say that it is no longer true nowadays. Discuss both views and give your own opinions. 🔹 Ambition is a positive quality for people to have in society today. How important is it for people who want to succeed in life? 🔹 An American film actor John Wayne once said "Tomorrow is the most important thing in life". How important it is for individual and government to think about the future rather than focus on the present?

Essay Questions (December/January) 🔹 The demand for coaching services has grown significantly in the digital age, with online coaching platforms becoming prevalent. Some now feel online coaching is a superior option to in-person coach. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that employers should not pay attention to the way their employees dress, because the quality of their work is more important. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that nowadays children have too much freedom. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that people living in the twenty-first century have a better standard of living as compared to previous centuries. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Research has shown that the transportation of products and people are the main source of pollution. Some people believe the government should be in charge of this, while others believe it is the fault of individuals. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 In many countries, it is mandatory for school children to wear uniforms. Do the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays, there is more and more competition for getting into university. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Nowadays governments in many countries spend a lot of money on works of art such as paintings to be displayed in public places. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Some countries invest a significant amount of money in promoting the use of bicycles. Why do you think this is the case? Does it have a positive or a negative impact on individuals and the society? 🔹 People in many countries are spending more and more time away from their families. Why is this happening? How does this affect people and their families?

Essay Questions (November/December) 🔹 Financial education should be included as a mandatory subject in schools to prepare students for managing money effectively. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people feel that most of the urgent problems can only be solved by international cooperation. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people work from home using modern technology today. Some people think that only the workers benefits from this and not the employers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people believe that university students should study a full range of subjects, instead of some specific subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that too much attention and resources are given to the protection of wild animals and birds. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think the manufacturers and shopping malls should sell fewer packaged products while others argue that people have the responsibility to buy products with less packaging. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people think that all lawbreakers should be taken into prison. In contrast, others believe there are better alternatives (for example, doing work or learning skills in the community). Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people believe that the purpose of education is to make individuals useful to society, while others think that education should help people pursue personal ambitions. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 In recent years, there has been a rise in the use of performance-enhancing drugs in sports. What are the consequences of doping for athletes? What measures should be taken to combat this issue? 🔹 Environmental damage is a problem in most countries. What is the cause of this damage? What should be done about this problem? 🔹 In many countries, students leave high school without learning how to manage their money. Why is that the case? What could be done to tackle the issue?

Essay Questions (November) 🔹 Some people think that certain old buildings are more worth preserving than other ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some argue that music mainly serves as a way for individuals to reduce their stress and anxiety. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people are using computers and electronic devices to access information; therefore, there is no need for printed books, magazines, and newspapers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Scientific research should be funded by governments rather than commercial organizations. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The tendency of news reports in the media to focus more on problems and emergencies than on positive developments is harmful to individuals and the society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Nowadays people take photographs and record videos of their social activities. Why are they doing this? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this activity? 🔹 Some people think that mobile (cell) phones should be banned in public places such as libraries, shops and on public transport. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 In many societies, there is a growing emphasis on individualism, with people prioritizing their personal goals and desires over collective interests. Is this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 With the growing population of cities, more and more people live in homes that have little or no outdoor area. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Some people believe that professional athletes serve as positive role models for young people, while others argue that their behavior both on and off the field can have a negative influence. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people say the government should manage people’s health, while others think that individuals should be in charge of their own health. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some individuals argue that children should always heed the advice given by their parents, while others believe that children should make decisions independently. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Environmental damage is a problem in most countries. What is the cause of this damage? What should be done about this problem? 🔹 The rise of social media platforms has made it easier for people to vent their frustrations and complaints publicly. What is the consequence of this trend? Is there any benefit to expressing complaints on social media? 🔹 In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining. Why do you think this is happening? How can this issue be solved? 🔹 In many countries, people now wear Western-style dresses such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 In many countries, the number of animals and plants is declining. Why do you think this is happening? How can this issue be solved? 🔹 In the past older people spent time with others and exercised daily. Nowadays many of them suffer from loneliness and health problems. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to improve the situation?

Essay Questions (October) 🔹 Some think dangerous extreme sports such as skydiving and rock climbing should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some argue that music mainly serves as a way for individuals to reduce their stress and anxiety. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people feel that the private lives of celebrities should not be openly shared by the media. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It has been said that group or team activities can teach more important skills for life than activities done alone. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that in order to solve environmental problems, fuel prices for cars and other vehicles must increase. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that professional athletes serve as positive role models for young people, while others argue that their behavior both on and off the field can have a negative influence. Discuss both sides and give your opinion 🔹 Some people believe the purpose of education is to prepare individuals to be beneficial to society. Others say the purpose of education is to achieve personal ambitions. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people think that it is good for a country’s culture to import foreign movies and TV programs. Others think that it is better to produce these locally. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think that in order to be successful in business one has to study at university, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think that the best way to relax is by resting or sleeping. Others say that doing exercise or playing sports is a better way to relax. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Nowadays people take photographs and record videos of their social activities. Why are they doing this? What are the advantages and disadvantages of this activity? 🔹 In many societies, there is a growing emphasis on individualism, with people prioritizing their personal goals and desires over collective interests. Is this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 In many societies, there is a growing emphasis on sustainable living and reducing environmental impact. What are the challenges of adopting a sustainable lifestyle? What practical actions can individuals take to contribute to sustainability?

📌 Speaking Topics September—December 2023 📌 Part 1️⃣ Topics ● Work and studies ● Home, Hometown ● Bags ● Wild animals ● Rain ● Teachers ● Concentration ● Friends ● Languages ● Ice cream ● Fixing things ● Week ● Ambitions ● Health ● Dreams ● Days off ● Bicycles ● Fishing ● Robots ● Geography ● Gifts ● Running ● Films ● Coffee and tea ● Noise ● Musical instruments ● Helping others ● Maps ● Chatting ● Clothes ● Transportation Part 2️⃣ Topics ■ Time you spent with a child ■ Getting lost ■ Piece of clothing ■ Incorrect information ■ Place to visit in the future ■ Enjoyable experience in your childhood ■ Game ■ New shop ■ Invention ■ Car journey ■ Book ■ Person who moved into a new place ■ Popular or famous person ■ Film you didn’t like ■ Helpful person ■ Ideal house or apartment ■ Adventure you’d like to take ■ Important decision ■ Expensive gift ■ Water sport ■ Speech you gave ■ Crowded place ■ Interesting job ■ Traditional festival ■ Sports program ■ Painting ■ Photo ■ Party ■ Park or garden ■ Person who likes cooking for others ■ Science subject ■ Rule ■ Person you haven’t met before ■ Positive change in your life ■ Waiting for a nice thing ■ Bad service ■ Sports person you admire ■ Problem with a computer ■ Advice you gave ■ Successful business person ■ Beautiful city ■ Person with interesting ideas ■ Interesting place in your country ■ Useful advertisement ■ Difficult task ■ Foreigner who speak your native language well ■ Tiring activity ■ Successful person ■ Exciting activity you did with someone else ■ History period

Essay Questions (September) 🔹 Virtual reality be used as a tool for therapeutic interventions and mental health treatments. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that employers should not care about the way their employees dress, because what matters is the quality of their work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In recent years, tourists have paid attention to preserving both the culture and environment of the places they visit. However, some people think that it is impossible to be a responsible tourist. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion? 🔹 Some people think that too much money and time have been allocated to scientific research. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think parents should read or tell stories to children. Others think parents needn’t do that as children can read books or watch TV, movies by themselves. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people believe that it is important for parents to tell or read stories for their children. Others think that parents don't have to do this because there are many sources for children to read like books, TV and movies. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people believe that hard work and determination are the main requirements to become successful in life, while others say there are other factors that lead to success. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think that households should be given permission to keep a gun in the house, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some young people go to college or university to have a successful career path. Others, however, chose to go straight to work to gain real life experience after high school. Discuss both views and write your opinion 🔹 The development of tourism contributed English becoming the most prominent language in the world. Some people think this will lead to English becoming the only language to be spoken globally. What are the advantages and disadvantages to having one language in the world? 🔹 In many countries, young people leave their parents’ home in their early twenties and go on to live on their own, while others prefer to stay with their families until a later age. Do you think the advantages of young people living with their parents for longer outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Young people are often influenced in their behaviors by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important while others feel it has distinct disadvantages. Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages? 🔹 These days many people prefer to work longer hours and spend less time at home. Are there more advantages than disadvantages to this trend? 🔹 Nowadays more tasks at home and work are being performed by robots. Is this a negative or positive development? 🔹 Nowadays, parents put a lot of pressure on their children to succed. What are the reasons? Is it positive or negative development? 🔹 Many people are choosing to have children later in life. Why is this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

Essay Questions (August/September) 🔹 Some people think building more roads can reduce the traffic. What is your opinion ? 🔹 Some parents say that giving expensive gifts to a child can create bad habits in him/her. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In order to learn a language well, we should also learn about the country as well as the cultures and lifestyles of the people who speak this language. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Housing is essential for people. Some argue that the government should offer free housing for people who cannot afford it. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Full-time university students need to spend most of their time studying. Some people, however, claim that students needed to be involved in other activities as well. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Some people argue that the government should pay more for art to be displayed at openings and exhibitions. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the best way for developing countries to eradicate poverty is to provide six years of free education to every child. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that schools should invest in the best equipment for students, while others say that funds should be used towards hiring great teachers. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people believe that if a child commits a crime he or she should be punished, while others think it is the child’s parents who should be punished. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think that in the modern world, getting old is entirely bad. Others, however, think that life of elderly in the modern world is much better than it was in the past. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 Some cities allow their residents to transform public parks and open space to small farms, to grow fruit and vegetables. Do the advantages of this approach outweigh its disadvantages? 🔹 In some countries today, children are taught from a young age that competition is important and that winning is everything. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Nowadays many people choose to be self-employed, rather than work for a company. Why might this be the case? What could be the disadvantages of being self-employed? 🔹 Some people fail in school, but end up being successful in life. Why do you think that is the case? What is, in your opinion, the most important thing to succeed in life?

Essay Questions (August/September) 🔹 Some people think eating meat is bad for health. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the Internet and communication technology are having a negative effect on social relationships. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Schools should use films, computers and games instead of books. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Friendships that take place online are not as meaningful as those where people meet each other face to face. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way to reduce poverty in developing countries is by giving up to six years of free education, so that they can at least read, write and use numbers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The only way to improve road safety is to give much stricter punishments for driving offences. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that countries should produce all the food necessary to feed their populations and import as little food as possible. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 New parents should attend parenting classes to learn how to bring up their children well. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 It is sometimes said that modern technology brings people more free time. However, some people say that instead technology is making people even busier. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think that it is a waste of money for countries to host big sporting events like the world cup and the olympic games, and that the money would be better spent on other things. However, others think that hosting large sporting events has a clear positive impact on a country. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that reading is always a good habit. Others feel it depends on which books a person is reading. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Nowadays, most countries can improve the standard of living through economic development, but some social values are lost as a result. Do you think the advantages of this phenomenon outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 International travel and tourism has become easier and more affordable. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 In many countries, students’ concentration in the classroom has decreased. What are the reasons for this? What are some possible solutions? 🔹 In many countries, more and more people choose to buy imported food rather than food produced locally. Why people buy imported food? What could be done to encourage people to buy local food?

Essay Questions (July/August) 🔹 Some experts in safety say that all cyclists should have to pass a test before being allowed to ride a bicycle in public roads. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Money should be spent on creating new public buildings such as museums or town halls rather than renovating the existing ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people think technological devices such as smart phones, tablets and mobile phones bring more disadvantages than advantages. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think students should study the science of food and how to prepare it. Others think that school time should be used in learning important subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 In recent years, there has been a significant increase in the number of oil drilling operations in remote locations around the world. This has brought economic benefits to some countries, though it has also raised concerns about the environmental impact of these operations. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people say that school children should be given individual class work, while others think that working in small groups is better for them. Discuss both approaches and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people say that we should invest more money in classroom technology and equipment. Others argue that we should spend this money on teachers. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 The increasing availability of low-cost airlines now lets people travel around the world. Some feel this is a positive development while others think it is negative overall. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion 🔹 Scientists agree that people are damaging their health by eating too much junk food. Some people think that the answer to this problem is to educate people. Others think education will not work. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 In some countries, companies allow people to work from home. In others, people are still expected to work in an office. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 As machines have become more sophisticated, more and more jobs and tasks involving physical hard work can be done automatically. Do the positive effects of this trend outweigh the negative effects? 🔹 Many people argue that restaurants should be required to disclose the nutritional information of the dishes they serve. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Social media helps people to keep in touch with friends and stay on top of news and events. Do you think the advantages of social media outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 More and more people no longer read newspapers or watch TV programs to get news. They get news about the world through the internet. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Today, some young people say that their mobile phones are the most important thing they own. Do you think that popularity of mobile phones is a good or bad thing? 🔹 People can eat a wide variety of food that can be grown in other areas. As a result, people can eat more food produced in other regions than local food. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? OR 🔹 Nowadays more people are purchasing imported food than local ones. Why is this case? What people/government could do? 🔹 Many historical sites and museums are mainly visited by tourists, not local people. Why is this the case? What can be done to attract local people to visit this historical sites and museums? 🔹 Nowadays parents put too much pressure on their children to succeed. What is the reason to doing this? is this a negative or positive development? 🔹 Nowadays, it is getting difficult for people to enjoy their lives in cities. Why do you think this is? What can the government do to make life in cities more enjoyable?

Essay Questions (June/July) 🔹 Some people believe that parents who spend too much time at work and too little time with their children are responsible for the antisocial behavior of teenagers. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is a good idea for people to continue working beyond retirement age. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The most important aim of science ought to be to improve people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some feel that governments should prioritize healthcare instead of other important areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people say that providing access to clean water should be the main focus for international aid organisations. Others believe that there are more important uses for international aid. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Around the world, rural people are moving to cities and urban areas, so populations in the countryside are decreasing. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Some employers want to be able to contact their staff at all times, even on holidays. Does this development have more advantages than disadvantages? 🔹 More and more people participate in extreme sports. Why do people take part in these dangerous sports? What can be done to reduce the danger associated with such activities? 🔹 Some people tend to buy products or get services instantly, without waiting. Why is it happening? Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 In many countries, obesity and unhealthy eating habits are increasing. What are the reasons for this trend? What is the most effective way to prevent it? 🔹 Happiness is often considered difficult to define. Why is this? What factors determine happiness?