Recent IELTS Exam Topics: Writing & Speaking

Essay Questions (June/July) 🔹 People in senior positions should be compensated with significantly higher salaries than people in lower positions in the same company. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Fast food is becoming part of life everywhere, which negatively affects our lifestyles and diet. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 People's shopping habits depend more on the age group that they belong to rather then on other factors. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people believe that in order to create a happy society we should ensure that there is only a small difference between the incomes of the richest and poorest people. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The role of parents and family in the future success of a person is more important than knowledge and skills learnt at school. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is more important for school children to learn about local history than world history. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that visiting museums is the best way for children to learn history, while many others think there are several better ways. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 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 feel that cities should allow for spaces for graffiti while others feel it should be banned. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Many university students nowadays live away from home and their parents because of their university location, while others live with their families. What are the advantages and disadvantages of each situation? 🔹 International travel is becoming cheaper and countries are opening their doors to move and more tourist. Do the advantages of increased tourism outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Around the world, people are now living longer than ever before in the past. Some say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Others believe there are benefits to society having more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of possessing an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Fossil fuels are the main source of energy around the world today. In some countries, the use of alternative sources of energy is replacing fossil fuels. Is this a positive or 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, people are concerned about the number of children who are overweight. What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions can you suggest? 🔹 Today, many people do not know their neighbors. Why is this? What can be done about this? 🔹 Fewer young people play sports these days. Why is this? What can be done to encourage more young people to do sports?

Essay Questions (May/June) 🔹 People living in the 21st century have a better quality of life than in the previous centuries. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 As we are facing more and more problems, which affect the whole planet, good relationships between different countries are becoming more important than ever before. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the main goal of schools should be making children into responsible citizens and good workers, rather than benefitting them as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people claim that too much focus and resources have been spent to protect wildlife. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In marriages today, some argue that it is the responsibility of both spouses to earn a living for the family. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Always telling the truth is the most important consideration in any relationship between people. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 If people could get a chance to choose between life without work and spending most of their time working, then they would choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that the government should strictly control the supply of fresh water, as it is a limited resource, while others think it should not be regulated. Discuss both sides and give your 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. 🔹 New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In some countries, citizens are allowed to keep a gun in their homes. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays, people all over the world are spending more and more time apart from their families. Why is this happening? How does this affect people and their families? 🔹 Some ex-prisoners commit crimes after being released from prison. What do you think is the cause? How can it be solved? 🔹 In many cities an increasing number of people do not know their neighbors and there is a lack of a sense of community. What are the causes of this problem? What can be done about this?

Essay Questions (May) 🔹Nowadays, sports is a big business with high earnings for professional sports people and companies involved both financially and other ways. Is this a positive or negative development for sports? 🔹In many countries, people now wear western clothes such as suits and jeans rather than traditional clothing. Why is this the case? Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹Living in large cities today poses many problems for people. What are these problems? Should governments encourage more people to live in smaller towns? 🔹Today family members eat fewer meals together. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative trend? 🔹Most children want to watch the same TV programs and play the same computer games like their friends do. Should parents allow them to do like this? 🔹Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve the growing traffic and pollution problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the statement? What other measures do you think might be effective? 🔹Young people do not spend their holiday and weekend doing outdoor activities like hiking and climbing in natural environment. Why is that? What can be done to encourage them? 🔹In many countries today, major cities have become too big and overcrowded. Why is this? What measures could be taken to reduce this problem?

Essay Questions (May) 🔹Many today feel that attention spans are becoming shorter due to the prevalence of social media. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Intelligence is the most important quality of a leader. 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 the individuals and the society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹It is a natural process for animal species to become extinct (e.g. dinosaur, dodo) There is no reason why people should try to prevent this from happening. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹Learning at university would be more effective if men and women were educated separately. 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? 🔹Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn about current events. However, others believe that they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹In some countries, marriages are arranged by the parents but in other cases, people choose their own marriage partner. Discuss both systems and state which one do you think is better. 🔹In some places, old age is valued, while in other cultures youth is considered more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Many parents encourage young people to leave home when they become older, while others think they should stay at home with the family. Discuss both views and opinion. 🔹Some people feel that equality between the genders has already been achieved while others feel there is considerable progress to be made. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹Some people think it is more important to spend time in developing a successful career while others think it is more important to spend time with friends and family. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think government should subsidies food and vegetables to make healthy food cheaper. Other argues that tax should be set on unhealthy food. Discuss both views and gives your opinion. 🔹Some countries have legal ages at which people can drink. Other countries believe not having strict laws is a better policy. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹In some countries it is allowed to keep guns at home, but others think that it should be not allowed. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some believe that students should begin learning a language very early in school while others think these subjects should be taught later. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹Many think that religion should be taught in schools while others think it should be avoided. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹Some people believe that more academic subjects such as chemistry, physics and history should be taught in schools, while others believe that students will derive more benefit from studying practical subjects such as motor mechanics and cooking. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹Some people think printed books are no longer necessary in this digital era as well writing can be stored electronically. Others believe that printed books still play important roles. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹In today's world, private companies rather than government pay for and conduct most scientific research. Do you think the advantages outweigh disadvantages?

Essay Questions (March/April) 🔹 Some feel that students should not have to take standardized tests in school. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is better to be unemployed than to be employed in a job one does not enjoy. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is a natural process that animal species such as dinosaurs become extinct. There is no reason for people to prevent this from happening. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In the past important knowledge of culture and history was stored in museums. Nowadys information is freely available on the Internet, and therefore there is no need for museums. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 People in senior positions should be compensated with significantly higher salaries than people in lower positions in the same company. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 University education should develop specialists in one subject area rather than create a broader range of subjects. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Today in many countries, in order to find work people have to move away from their friends and family. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays parents in many countries give their children more freedom than in the past. Is this a positive or a negative trend? 🔹 Some people say that no one should work after the age of 65, others say that anyone should be able to continue working for as long as they wish. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that public health within a country can be improved by government making laws regarding nutritious food. Others however think that health is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that water is the most important natural resource, while other believe that other resources such as oil and gold are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think watching television is bad for children in every way. Others believe it is good for developing children as they grow up. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that it is best to encourage children to leave their family home as soon as possible. Others believe children should stay at the family home for as long as they like. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think history has little to tell us, but others think studying past history can help us better understand the present. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some feel that individuals should have the right to strike in all jobs while others feel there are exceptions. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Most people prefer shopping in supermarkets nowadays rather than local shops. How does this affect the local shops? What are the positive and negative impacts of this development? 🔹 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 like to listen to music while working or studying. Others find that they need silence to focus. What is your preference? Why do you find the other option unhelpful? 🔹 Despite better access to education, many adults today still can not read or write. In what ways are they disadvantaged? What can governments do to help them?

Essay Questions (March) 🔹 Many people today would argue that cinemas are becoming irrelevant due to new streaming services. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some say that university students should pay the full cost of their studies because higher education only benefits the students and not the society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Employers should give their staff at least four weeks' holiday a year to make employees better at their work. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some feel that movies and TV shows are a good way to study history despite their lack of historical accuracy at times. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that young criminals should receive the same punishment as adults. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that when buying a product or service, price is the most important thing to consider. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is better to be unemployed than to be employed in a job one does not enjoy. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many believe that the goal of one’s career should be to pursue a passion while others feel it is merely a way to earn a livelihood. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that it is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. Others however believe that governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people encourage watching sports as a way of learning about teamwork and strategy, while others believe that one can learn these skills only through playing sports. Discuss both views and give your 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. 🔹 Some believe that success in life comes from hard work and determination. Others think that it depends on factors such as money or personal appearance. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that in the modern world people are becoming more and more dependent on each other, while others believe that people are becoming more and more independent of each other. Discuss both these views and give your opinion. 🔹 New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays, instead of locally sourced produce, many supermarkets sell a variety of foods imported from countries all across the world. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In many countries, people increasingly talk about money such as how much they earn or how much they pay for things in their daily conversations. Why? Is this a positive or negative trend? 🔹 Many doctors recommend that older people exercise regularly, but most patients do not follow an exercise routine. Why do you think this happens? How can people be encouraged to exercise regularly? 🔹 People are not exercising regularly, even though they know it is beneficial for their health. Why is this a problem? What can be done to tackle it? 🔹 Today, many people do not know their neighbors. Why is this? What can be done about this? 🔹 Nowadays companies are trying to increase the sales of their products in various ways. What are the different methods that they use? Which one is the most effective? 🔹 Nowadays, many people have cosmetic surgery to enhance their appearance. Why are they doing this? Is this a positive or a negative development?

Essay questions (February/March) 🔹 Some people think it is more important to spend money on roads and motorways than on public transport systems. To what extent do you agree? 🔹 For many people, the reason they work hard is to earn money. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is a natural process for animal species to become extinct (e.g. dinosaur, dodo…) There is no reason why people should try to prevent this from happening. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Individuals can do nothing to improve the environment. Only governments and large companies can make a difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people argue that it is better to be unemployed than to be employed in jobs they do not enjoy. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Big companies should pay much higher salaries to their CEOs or company presidents than to regular employees. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 The older generations tend to have very traditional ideas about how people should live, think and behave. However, some people believe that these ideas are not helpful in preparing younger generations for modern life. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view? 🔹 In some countries, marriages are arranged by the parents. What is your opinion? 🔹 In many countries, children are given a lot of homework. Is it a positive or a negative trend? 🔹 Nowadays, many people buy household goods (like television, rice cookers etc). Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Newspapers have an enormous influence on people’s opinions and ideas. Do you think it is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Some cities create housing areas by providing taller buildings. Others create housing by building houses on a wider area of land. What solution is better? 🔹 Today parents spend little free time with their children. Why is this the case ? Who are more affected: parents or children? 🔹 The businesses advertise by people receiving a lot of advertising (emails, letters, phone calls) that they have not asked for. Why business do it? Is it a good or bad thing? 🔹 Some young people are leaving the countryside to live in cities and towns, while old people prefer to live in countryside? What problems does this cause? What can be done to solve these problems? 🔹 Some sportsmen choose to do dangerous sport. Why does it happen? What can be done to reduce the dangers associated with it? 🔹 Most major cities around the world continue to grow at a phenomenal rate due to the massive increase in population. This has led to a general decline in the quality of life in city areas as the environment becomes more crowded and polluted. What are the reasons why this growth has occurred? What practical solutions can be suggested to solve this problem? 🔹 Some ordinary people try to copy celebrities. Why do you think it hapends? Do you think it is a positive or a negative trend?

Essay Questions (January/February) 🔹 Some people think that the main purpose of school is to turn children to good citizens and workers, rather than benefit them as individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that hobbies need to be difficult to be enjoyable. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 As we are facing more and more problems which affect the whole planet, good relationships between different countries are becoming more important than ever before. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 In many countries, city planners locate offices, schools, homes and shops in certain areas so that they are separated by distance. Do you think the advantages of this practice outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 These days, many people like to watch live performances (such as shows or concerts) at home, either on TV or on a computer, instead of attending in-person. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages? 🔹 In the past, people stored knowledge in books. Nowadays people store knowledge on the internet. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Today, people are more likely to get news from the Internet, instead of TV and newspapers. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Some people feel that cities should allow for spaces for graffiti while others feel it should be banned. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some think newspapers are the best method for reading the news while others think other media is better. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think governments should spend money looking for life on other planets, while others think that there are many unsolved problems on earth. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people say history is one of the most important school subjects. Other people think that, in today’s world, subjects like science and technology are more important than history. Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people say that protecting the environment is the governments’ responsibility. Others believe that every individual is responsible for it. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that strict punishments for driving offences are the key to reducing traffic accidents. Others, however, believe that other measures would be more effective in improving road safety. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that educational qualifications bring success in life. But others believe they are not a necessity to succeed in life. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Nowadays in many countries young people don’t communicate with older people as much as they used to. Why is this happening? How could this situation be improved? 🔹 Nowadays, many people do not exercise enough and eat an unhealthy diet. Why is this happening? What can be done to help them improve their lifestyle? 🔹 Nowadays, not enough students choose science subjects at university in many countries. Why is this? What effects does this have on society?

Essay Questions (January/February) 🔹 The number of people who are overweight is constantly growing, and the only solution is to increase the prices on unhealthy food and drinks. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Today people are surrounded by advertising. This affects what people think is important and has a negative impact on people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some believe that new science related to criminal forensics should be used to look at old cases. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 University education should be free to everyone, regardless of income. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Machines have replaced physical work in many industries. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In some countries, more and more parents begin to teach their children at home rather than send them to school. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In some countries, if people need to find work, they have to move away from their families and their friends. Do you think the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Nowadays, more and more university students choose to study abroad. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Some people think that TV advertisements can be useful for viewers, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that using taxpayer funds to look for life on other planets is important. Others, however, think that it is a waste of public money because there are much more important issues requiring funding on our own planet. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that parents should pay their children for doing household chores such as cleaning or washing dishes, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that schoolchildren should be allowed to make decisions about the school rules, while others think that teachers should be responsible for making the rules. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Public health is becoming an urgent issue nowadays. Some argue that governments should create nutrition and food choice laws to improve public health, while others believe that it is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Many companies sponsor sports as a way of advertising themselves. Some people think this is good for the world of sport, while others think it is negative. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 In many countries, people increasingly talk about money such as how much they earn or how much they pay for things in their daily conversations. Why? Is this a positive or negative trend? 🔹 Organized tours to remote places and communities are increasingly popular. Is it a positive or negative development for local people and the environment? 🔹 Some ex-prisoners commit crimes after being released from prison. What do you think is the cause? How can it be solved?

Essay Questions (December/January) 🔹 As we are facing more and more problems which affect the whole planet, good relationships between different countries are becoming more important than ever before. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Pollution and environmental problems are resulting from the way that many countries are developing and becoming richer. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think there could be more benefits to society if more people study business than history. To what extent do you agree or disagree？ 🔹 Some people think that social networking sites have a huge negative impact on both individuals and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people suggest that a country should try to produce all the food for its population and import as little food as possible. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 As the number of cars increases, more money has to be spent on road systems. Some people think the government should pay for this. Others, however, think that drivers should cover the costs. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some countries have legal ages at which people can drink. Other countries believe not have strict laws is a better policy. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that visiting museums and art galleries is the best way to learn about art, while others believe that there are better ways of doing that. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that teachers require training to become good at their profession. Others think a good teacher has all the necessary qualities and does not need any training. Discuss both the views and give your opinion. 🔹 Online currencies have become more common in recent years. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Today parents spend a little free time with their children. Why is it so? Who do you think is affected more, parents or children? 🔹 Car ownership has increased so rapidly over the past thirty years that in many cities around the world there are constant traffic jams. How true do you think this statement is? What measures can governments take to discourage people from owning cars? 🔹 What are the most important elements of a perfect society in the modern world? How can people work towards achieving an ideal society?

Essay Questions (December) 🔹 Large companies should pay higher salaries to CEOs and executives compared to other workers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Students should pay the full cost for their studies because university education benefits individuals rather than society. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 To reduce poverty in developing countries each child should be provided with at least 6 years of education to learn how to write, calculate, read, and so on. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is not necessary to travel to other places to learn about other cultures of other people. We can learn just as much from books, films, and the internet. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that to prevent illness and disease, governments should focus more on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Many people today would argue that cinemas are becoming irrelevant due to new streaming services. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some employers are giving increased importance to employing people with good social skills in addition to good qualifications. Do you agree or disagree that social skills are as important as good qualifications for success in a job? 🔹 Some people believe that climate has the greatest effect on people's way of life. Others believe that the economy of the region has the greatest effect. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that children should aim to their best at what they are doing while others believe it is not necessary for them. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that educational qualifications are important to success in life. Others believe that this is not the only way to become successful. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that children of all ages should have extra responsibilities (for example, helping at home or work). Others believe that, outside of school, children should be free to enjoy their lives.  Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 The global demand for oil and gas is increasing. Some believe that we should therefore encourage the exploitation of remote areas. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In the future, robots may do the work of humans. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In some countries university students live away from home and in other cities while studying. Do you think the disadvantages outweigh the advantages of living in other cities? 🔹 These days, more and more people move away from the area where they were born and brought up when they become adults. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Today, TV channels provide men’s sport shows more than women’s sports shows. Why? Should TV channels give equal time for women’s sports and men’s sports?

Essay Questions (November-December) 🔹 Music has been and will continue to be the universal language of mankind. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Doing an enjoyable activity with a child can is better for their overall skills development and creativity than reading. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Young people spend too much of their free time in shopping malls. This has a negative effect on young people and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? 🔹 Some people say that in our modern age, it is unnecessary to teach children about the skills of handwriting. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Spoken communication is always more powerful than written communication.To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Learning at university would be more effective if men and women were educated separetely. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe more actions can be taken to prevent crime, while others think that little can be done. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion 🔹 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. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people think that public health in the country can be improved by government making laws regarding nutritious food. Others, however, think that health is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some countries allow old people to work to any age they want. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 More and more people want to buy famous brands of clothes, cars and other products. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? 🔹 In many workplaces online communication has overtaken face to face meetings. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Some children spend hours every day on their smartphones. Why is this the case? Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

Essay Questions (November) 🔹 It has been suggested that primary school children should be taught how to grow vegetables and keep animals. To what extent the advantages of this suggestion outweigh its disadvantages? 🔹 Museums and art galleries should concentrate on works that show history and culture of their own country rather than works of the other parts in the world. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way for a country to prepare for the future is to invest resources in its young people. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Today’s teenagers struggle with many social issues. Some people think that this is because their parents are spending more time at work than at home. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Employers should give their staff at least a 4-week holiday a year to make employees better at their jobs. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that entertainers are more important than scientists. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is necessary for parents to attend parenting training course to bring their children up. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that educational qualifications bring success in life. But others believe they are not a necessity to succeed in life. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people believe that the government should make more to make people to diet. While other believe that the individuals need to take care of their diet and health. Discuss both views and give your opinion 🔹 Some people think that products should be made to last as long as possible, while others believe making the products cheap is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 Some people say that economic growth is the only way to end hunger and poverty, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give opinion 🔹 Some believe that modern technology is increasing the gap between rich and poor people, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your own opinion 🔹 People are living longer nowadays and in many countries, there are more old people than young people. Do you think there is more benefits or drawbacks of this development? 🔹 Space travel has been possible for some time and some people believe that space tourism could be developed in the future. Do you think it is a positive or negative development? 🔹 Many countries aim to improve their living standard by economic developnent but some important social values are lost as a result. Do you think advantages of economic development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 These days, more and more people move away from the area where they were born and brought up when they become adults. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 These days people send text messages more frequently than they talk on the phone. Do the advantages of texting outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In many countries, children are given a lot of homework. Is it a positive or a negative trend? 🔹 Nowadays parents give more freedom to their children than in the past. Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹 Young people are increasingly admiring the media and sports stars even though they often show bad example. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Most people prefer shopping in supermarkets nowadays, and not at small local shops or markets. Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹 More and more people now enjoy activities that are dangerous (mountain climbing and bungee jumping). What are the reasons for this? Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 These days more and more people spend their free time doing dangerous activities. Why is this happening? Are there more positive or negative effects to this trend? 🔹 In many countries, a lot of food is wasted. Why do people waste food? What can we do to reduce the amount of food waste? 🔹 Some cities create housing areas by providing taller buildings. Others create housing by building houses on a wider area of land. What solution is better?

Essay Questions (October-November) 🔹 When a person moves to a new country you have to follow the traditions of this country. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that the best way to solve environmental problems is to increase the price of fuel. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Most companies use interviews as the only method to select a candidate for a job. Some people think that this is not the best way. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some think secondary and high school students should be allowed to choose academic courses leading to university or practical courses leading to careers such as carpenters. To what extent do you agree or disagree？ 🔹 Some people believe that parents should choose the degree or the major for their child to study at university. Others feel that children should be able to choose their own degree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think it is better to go out to see live events, such as music and sports. Others think that it is better to watch such events on the television. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that it is important to control publishing personal information in media, such as newspapers, while others believe that publishing such information does not harm anybody. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that parents should choose a profession for their children. Others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that educational success depends on good teachers. Others think that it depends on the attitude of the students. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that schools should select students based on academic abilities. Others think that they should accept students with different abilities. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some feel that punishment should focus more on rehabilitation instead of long prison terms. Others feel prison terms are important for social stability. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹 Some argue that patriotism is the primary cause of wars globally. Others feel that it serves to prevent less ethical politicians from running a country and starting wars. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 In many workplaces, online communication is getting more common than meeting face to face. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Many people believe that there is a general increase in anti-social behaviours and lack of respect for others. What are the causes and solutions? 🔹 Plastic waste is polluting cities in the world, countryside and oceans. What problems can it cause? What measures can be taken? 🔹 Leaders in all spheres today tend to be younger than in the past. Why? Is it positive or negative development? 🔹 Some young people like to copy the behaviour and clothes of famous people today. Why might this be the case? What problems can it cause? 🔹 Even though experts believe that walking is a great way to improve one’s health, very few people walk nowadays. Why aren’t people walking? What can be done to encourage them to walk more? 🔹 Newspapers have a significant influence on people’s ideas and opinions. Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative situation?

Essay Questions (October) 🔹 Some people today have argued that countries should interfere less in the affairs of other nations. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Employers should focus on personal qualities instead of qualifications and experience when choosing an employee. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 As a part of education, students should spend a period of time studying and living in a different country to learn its language and culture. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some think that too much money has been spent looking after and repairing old buildings, so we should knock down old buildings and build modern ones instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 More and more people are becoming overweight. Some people say that raising the price of fattening foods will solve this problem. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Crimes on TV and in newspapers have bad consequences. Some people think that this kind of information should be limited in the media. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that too much time and resources are spent on the protection of wild animals, which would be better spent on people. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that radio is the best way to get news, while other believe that television is better for this purpose. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some feel that individuals should try to assimilate completely to the country where they live while others feel it is more important to preserve their native culture. Discuss both sides and give your opinion. 🔹 Today, many people use the internet and smartphones to transfer money to friends, family, and businesses. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 Today foods travel thousands of miles from farmers to consumers. Why is it so? Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹 Some people believe that certain old buildings should be preserved more than others. What types of old buildings should be preserved? Do you think the advantages of preserving old buildings outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 Environmental problems such as pollution and climate change are more common nowadays. The governments introduced some measures, but got only few solutions. Why is it so? How can this be solved? 🔹 In many countries, children show less respect to elders. What are the causes of such behaviour? What can be done about it? 🔹In some parts of the world traditional festivals and celebrations have disappeared or are disappearing. What problems is this causing? What measures could be taken to counter this situation?

Essay Questions (September-October) 🔹 Some people say that we do not need printed newspapers anymore. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Too much emphasis is placed on going university for academic education. People should be encouraged to do vocational training, because there is a lack of qualified professionals such as electricians or plumbers. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that if a police officer carries guns, it can encourage a higher level of violence. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that advertising aimed at children should be banned. To what extent you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people say that young people learn useful skills by playing electronic and computer games. Others say that young people who play electronic and computer games are wasting their time. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some think that developing a successful career is more important than spending time with family and friends, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Many people like having a fixed daily routine, while others enjoy change in their lives. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some believe that traffic problems in cities can best be resolved by investing in urban infrastructure while others feel there are superior solutions. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion. 🔹 In many countries, the law says that people must attend school until they become 18 years old. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 It has become easier and more affordable for people to travel to other countries. Do you think it is a positive or a negative development? 🔹 In some cities of the world, cars are replacing bicycles. However in some other cities bicycles are replacing cars. What are the reasons for these two developments? In your opinion which one is better? 🔹 New research has shown that overeating has become a bigger problem in the world than hunger. What are the reasons for this problem? How can it be solved? 🔹 Advanced technology has brought many beneficial changes to the world. However, some old people today struggle with the use of technologies such as mobile phones and the Internet. How can the elderly benefit from using advanced technologies? How can the elderly be encouraged to use consumer electronics more often? 🔹 The increase in the production of consumer goods results in damage to the natural environment. What are the causes of this? What can be done to solve this problem?

Essay Questions (September) 🔹 The leaders of most organizations tend to be older people. However, some argue that younger people make better bosses. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Nowadays, distance-learning programs have gained in popularity, but some people argue that online courses can never be taken as good as those taken at a college or university in person. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 It is better to learn the way people lived in the past through films and video records than written documents. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people claim that public museums and art galleries will not be needed because people can see historical objects and works of art by using a computer. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Directors of large companies often receive much bigger salary than ordinary workers. Employers' organizations say that in a global market this is necessary to attract the best management talent. What is your opinion? 🔹 Some say that modern technology is giving people more free time, while others think it is making them busier. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 These days world leaders of all kinds are younger than in the past. What are the reasons? Is this a negative or a positive trend? 🔹 People have to spend more and more time to travel their homes for jobs and study. What are the reasons? How can we solve this problem? 🔹 New research has shown that overeating has become bigger problem in the world than hunger. What are the reasons for this problem and how can it be solved? 🔹 Competitiveness is considered to be a positive quality among people. How does competitiveness affect individuals? Is competitiveness a positive or negative trait?

Essay Questions (September) 🔹 The best way to understand different cultures is by working at a multinational organization. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Governments should spend more money on medical research and less on researching the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that modern games can help children develop a wide range of skills, but others argue that traditional games can be much better for developing such skills. What is your opinion? 🔹 Nowadays in many countries most shops and products are the same. Some people feel this is a positive development, while others disagree. Discuss both views and state your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that job satisfaction is more important than job security. Others think that people cannot expect to enjoy a job and that having a permanent job is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that car-free days are effective ways to reduce air pollution. However, others argue that there are other ways that are more effective. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some think that children should start school as early as possible, while others believe that they should start school at the age of seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people think that the media such as newspaper should be allowed to publish information about people’s private lives. Others think that the media should be controlled so that they do not publish such information. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 It has been suggested that primary children should learn how to grow vegetables and keep animals. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? 🔹 In many countries, the numbers of juvenile crimes are increasing. What are the causes? How can parents and teachers help prevent youth crime? 🔹 Nowadays it is more difficult for children to concentrate or pay attention in school. What could be the reasons for this? What solutions can you suggest? 🔹 These days, many young people are not spending their weekends and holidays doing outdoor activities such as hiking or mountaineering. Why is that? How can they be encouraged to spend more time in the natural environment? 🔹 Research shows that some activities are good for health and others are bad. Despite knowing that, millions of people engage in unhealthy activities. What is the cause of this? What can be done about it? 🔹 There is more and more outrage and anger common in the society today. Why is this? Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 Nowadays many leaders in different organizations are younger than in the past. Why does it happen? Is it a positive or negative development?

Essay Questions (August) 🔹 When new cities are planned, it is important to build more public parks and sports facilities rather than shopping centers for people to spend their time in. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 The best way for the country to prepare for future is to invest on the young people. Do you agree and disagree? 🔹 Nowadays children spend more time on their phones. Some people think it is a good idea while others disagree. What is your opinion? 🔹 Some people think that the increasing use of computers and mobile phones for communication has a negative effect on young people's reading and writing skills. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that shops should not be allowed to sell food or drinks that are scientifically proven to be bad for people's health. Do you agree or disagree? OR 🔹 Shops should not be allowed to sell any food or drink scientifically proven bad for people's health. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people believe that it is private companies and individuals, not governments, who should pay to clean up the pollution they have produced. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Some people think that hosting international sports events is not worth it. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 All university students should do some voluntary work in their local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Nowadays in many countries, traditional customs are less popular than in the past, and that is why should not be preserved. Do you agree or disagree? 🔹 People should follow the customs and traditions when people start to live in a new country. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 🔹 Today, the majority of children are raised by their grandparents due to the fact that their parents are busy working. To what extent do you think it affects the whole family? 🔹 In many countries, young children are looked after during the day while their parents go to work. In a sense, they are raised by guardians and not their biological parents. What is your opinion about this family arrangement? 🔹 In many cities, old buildings are being destroyed to create more space for new housing. What is your opinion? 🔹 Some people say that modern technology has made shopping easier, while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that museums should be enjoyable and entertaining to attract young people, while others think that museums should only serve educational purposes. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some people think that dangerous sports should be banned. Others, however, believe that people should be free to choose sports activities. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some people say that television is a very useful tool when it comes to education. Others argue that television is a much overused, ineffective teacher. Discuss both of these views and give your 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 opinion. 🔹 Some people believe that to be successful at a sport you need a natural ability, while others think that hard work and practice can make you successful. Discuss both views and give your opinion. 🔹 Some believe that people today have no interest in maintaining the traditional culture of their country or region. Others believe that it is still important to people that we preserve a traditional way of life. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. 🔹 Some countries allow older people to work to any age they want. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Essay Questions (August) 🔹 Many parents in these days work in other countries, taking their families with them. Do you think advantages of the development outweigh its disadvantages? 🔹 Older people often choose to spend money on themselves (e.g. on holidays) rather than save money for their children after retirement. Is this a positive or negative development? 🔹 In many parts of the world, children are given more freedom than in the past. Is this a positive or a negative development? 🔹 The increase in the production of consumer goods results in damage to the natural environment. What are the causes of this? What can be done to solve this problem? 🔹 In more and more countries, people choose to give money on special occasions rather than personally giving gifts. Why might this be the case? Is it a positive or negative development? 🔹 Many students find it difficult to concentrate or pay attention at school. What are the reasons of this? What could be done about it? 🔹 In many places of travel such as lakes, mountains and beaches, the environment is polluted because of the rubbish and litters produced by tourists. Why is this? How can we solve the problem? 🔹 Many young people regularly change their jobs over the years. What are the reasons for this? Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?