Academic Writing - Task 1 (Model answer)

How chewing gum is made

The diagram shows the production stages of chewing gum from its initial melting through to the final packaging.


The first stage involves putting pieces of gum into a container where they are melted and joined together. This mass is then strained to remove the liquid. Following this, the gum is placed into another container where three ingredients are added; flavourings, softeners and sweeteners in order to provide the appropriate taste. This mixture is blended so the ingredients are spread throughout. The gum is then passed through rollers in order to flatten it and to take the form of sheeting which is easier to cut into rectangles. Once cut, the shapes are broken off with the help of two rollers into individual pieces. On a conveyor belt the finished product is wrapped and ready for distribution.

To sum up, making chewing gum is relatively easy and involves melting the initial ingredient, straining it, adding additives and forming the shape that is required for the market.

Question taken from Vocabulary for IELTS p.121

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from IELTS Practice Tests Plus 1 p.111

Academic Writing - Task 1 (Model answer)

The flow chart shows the recycling process of aluminium cans

The diagram shows the stages that are required to transform used aluminium cans back to re-usable ones.


Having consumed their drinks, individuals are able to dispose their cans in one of the re-cycling bins that are located around towns and cities. These are then collected by the re-cycling company and transported to a factory where they are cleaned and sorted. Next they are shred into small pieces and compressed into blocks to reduce their size. These blocks are heated and rolled into sheets with a thickness of between 2.5 and 6mm. Soft drink manufacturers buy these sheets to make new cans. In the United Kingdom 74% of the cans used are recycled.

To conclude, a large percentage of aluminium cans are re-used with the help of individuals and factories who then provide aluminium sheets to fizzy drink companies to design the cans for consumption again.
Question taken from Vocabulary for IELTS p.81

Academic Writing - Task 2 (Model answer)

In most countries, multinational companies and their products are becoming more and more important. This trend is seriously damaging our quality of life. To what extent to you agree or disagree?


Cities, shops and products around the world are beginning to look the same. The big brand names can be found splashed on advertisements globally and are recognised instantly. Factories to produce these items are set up in Asian countries where labour is cheaper such as China, Vietnam, India and Bangladesh.

Multinational companies are useful in that they provide millions of jobs and revitalize areas thereby improving living standards of people that might not have had an opportunity to gain employment. However in their drive to make a profit, they pay workers low salaries and expect them to work long hours so that their costs are reduced. In addition, these companies use up all the natural resources of a poor country and they don’t care if they cause environmental damage that can’t be reversed. Often consumers in wealthy nations have no idea where a product originates from or that workers work without any protection or labour laws. As long as people have the latest computer, music device or the latest pair of sports shoes at a reasonable price they are satisfied.

Local customs and lifestyles are damaged when a multinational company enters a country as their aim is standardization and mass production where the whole world has the same product with the same quality. For example when fast food entered the market in China, young people who traditionally had a healthy lifestyle and ate small portions started becoming overweight.

To conclude, globalization makes countries, consumers, workers and cultures vulnerable to the actions of multinational companies. It fills the world with useless products encouraging consumerism and greed which in turn damages our quality of life.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.91

Academic Writing - Task 2 (Model answer)

Parents and teachers make many rules for children to encourage good behaviour and to protect them from danger.  However children would benefit from fewer rules and greater freedom. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

One of the most frequently used words we often hear parents and teachers using is ‘don’t’. Rules and regulations are imposed on children so they can form socially accepted behaviour or in many cases parents believe they are protecting their children from a potentially dangerous situation.

It is important for children to know their limits and to realise that they can’t get away with everything. In today’s world where parents don’t have enough time to discipline their children we often see spoilt children who don’t appreciate or respect others. What is more, children are too young to be given the responsibility of making important choices and being accountable for the consequences. As adults have more life experiences they are able to make these decisions for them. In addition, when children feel that there are too many rules, they are likely to break them.


On the other hand, excessive rules confine a child’s behaviour and trying to protect them may actually make them afraid of many things. Over protective parents encourage dependent children who lack creativity and space to grow up as independent adults who are capable and willing to take risks. This type of child grows up living in a box and is unlikely to try and think outside it.


In my opinion, although boundaries are needed between adults in authority and children, there should also be some flexibility and freedom for children to encourage independent thought and creativity. Sometimes children learn by making a mistake themselves rather than having a parent trying to protect them.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.95

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Official IELTS p.56

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from New Insights into IELTS Workbook p.100

Model Answer - Academic Writing (Task 1)

The chart shows the division of household tasks by gender in Great Britain.

The bar chart shows how many minutes men and women spend on household tasks in Great Britain.


The task that takes the longest to perform, in fact more than 1 hour is cooking, baking and washing up. This is done by women while men spend half as much time doing this per day. In addition, women spend more time than men cleaning and tidying the house (almost an hour) and looking after the children and playing with them (three quarters of an hour). Men spend a little more than 10 minutes doing the former and 20 minutes with the children. Men spend almost no time washing, ironing and sewing clothes whereas women spend about 25 minutes doing this.

Men take care of the garden and pets the most, spending about 50 minutes per day on this duty while women only allocate 20 minutes of their day doing this. Similarly men spend more time performing maintenance duties and odd jobs (25 minutes a day) and women less than half of this time.

Overall, there is no domestic gender equality with woman spending more time doing household tasks in all categories except for gardening, pet care, maintenance and odd jobs.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.79

Model Answer - Academic Writing (Task 1)

The charts show the number of people using the Internet from 1995 to 2002 and Internet users in the world in 2003.

The line chart shows worldwide internet use over an 8 year period between 1995 and 2002 and the pie chart focuses on 2003 online users around the world.


1995 showed the least number of online users at 26 million. By 1999 this figure had risen to almost 200 million. The greatest increase is observed between the years 2000 and 2002 where users settled at approximately 600 million.

About half of the internet worldwide usage in 2003 is from the USA and Canada. Europe accounts for 24% of the world's internet users while Asia/Pacific has 15%. South America has a little less than half of Asia/Pacific's amount. Finally Africa and the Middle East constitute an extremely small percentage of global internet users (1%).

To conclude, the use of the internet is on the rise, having increased to almost 600 million users. Most users were from the USA and Canada whereas very few people used the internet in Africa and the Middle East in 2003.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.83 

Model Answer - Academic Writing (Task 1)

The charts show the share of the Australian and British cinema markets in 2001 and cinema admissions in Britian and Australia from 1980 to 2001.

The bar chart shows the country of origin of films being watched in Britain and Australia in 2001 and how many people went to see movies over a 20 year period in these two countries.


Films from America were the most popular variety in both countries with almost 80% being screened in Britain and about 10% less in Australia. British films were not as popular in these two countries. 20% of films made locally in Britain were watched there while Australians watched less than half of these. No Australian films were seen in Britain while only 10% were seen in their country of origin. Finally, while very few other films were seen in Britain, Australia watched about 15% of this category.

In 1980, 100 million people went to the cinema in Britain and this amount was reduced to around 60% four years later. Admissions rose steadily over the next 14 years reaching almost 160 million in 2000. Admissions in Australia were less for all the years starting at 40 million and ending up at about 90 million 20 years later.

To sum up, American movies were favoured by both countries and British viewers watched more films than Australians between 1980 and 2000.

Question taken from Cambride Instant IELTS p.82

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

You are looking for a part-time job. Write a letter to an employment agency. In your letter: 

• introduce yourself
• explain what sort of job you would like
• say what experience and skills you have

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am from Zimbabwe and currently studying for a Bachelor degree in Marketing in London. I have been here for six months now and I am looking for a part-time job to gain some additional practical experience.

As I live and study in south London I would prefer a job in a small marketing company in this area. I would be interested in a company that engages in any type of promotional activities such as organising events and public relations. Twenty hours a week is what I am legally allowed to work and my mornings are free as all my lectures are in the afternoons.

As my CV points out, I have been employed in my family-run public relations company in Harare as an event’s organiser. I have good organisational, time-management and communication skills due to this experience. I am also able to respond to unforeseen circumstances efficiently. With respect to languages, I am fluent in Shona, English and German. In addition, I am computer literate.

I look forward to hearing from you soon,

Yours faithfully,

Vimbayi Ruhanya

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.100

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

An English-speaking friend wants to spend a two-week holiday in your region and has written asking for information and advice. Write a letter to your friend.

In your letter:

• offer to find somewhere to stay
• give advice about what to do
• give information about what clothes to bring

Dear Gabriel,

I’m so happy that you finally decided to visit me in Istanbul in December. You mentioned that you will be bringing your girlfriend with you so I would like to suggest you stay in one of the cheap but comfortable hotels in the centre of the city which are close to all the major attractions.

Two weeks is more than enough time for you to see our fabulous city. In the old part of the city there are historical buildings, churches, mosques and museums such as Aya Sofya, the Blue Mosque, Topkapi Palace and Basilica Cistern which are well worth a visit. You should definitely spend an afternoon at the Grand Bazaar and the Spice Bazaar. There are frequent ferries which allow you to explore the Bosphorus too. For a taste of modern Istanbul and the branded shopping district you can visit Taksim Square and Independence Avenue. Of course you will have to sample our traditional food and sweets as well.

December is a cold and wet month here so I suggest you bring plenty of warm clothes including gloves. The strong winds have been known to fill the streets with broken umbrellas so make sure you bring a strong one.

Looking forward to seeing you soon,

Emre Tonguç

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.103

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

You are going to take a short holiday in Sydney, Australia and you want to rent a holiday flat while you are there.
Write to the tourist information office. In your letter:

• explain what you need
• say when you will need it
• ask for information about prices

Dear Sir/Madam,

A satisfied client recommended that I contact your office in connection with renting a holiday flat in Sydney. I will be visiting with my family which includes two young children under the age of seven. For this reason a two bedroom flat with a double bed and two single ones would be ideal as would one bathroom and a small kitchen for us to cook our meals. It is important for the flat to be located centrally as we will be doing plenty of walking.

We will be arriving on May 15th and departing on the 30th. On our first night we would want to go directly from the airport to the flat.

You webpage notifies clients that you offer a discount for off-peak periods and for people staying in Sydney for more than 10 days. Can you please inform us about the price we will be expected to pay for the duration of our stay?

Yours faithfully,

Allan Dellon
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.107

General Training - Model Answer (Task 2)

In general, people do not have such a close relationship with their neighbours as they did in the past. Why is this so and what can be done to improve contact between neighbours?


In the past neighbourhoods were smaller and consisted of tight-knit communities. It was common for everyone to know each other, drop by for something to drink or eat or even to chat and of course to lend a helping hand if a neighbour was in need.

This personal contact and intimacy between neighbours no longer exists. In a world of high-rise apartments, people barely notice their next door neighbour and are too busy living their individual lives to care about what is happening next door. In other words, there has been a move from communal living to individual living.

What is more, people are not rooted in a single location anymore. They change neighbourhoods, cities and even countries for various reasons. This can be seen in large cities in China where there are thousands of migrant workers. Frequently changing homes does not give a person time to get to know their immediate environment.

It is very difficult to restore the type of relationship people had in the past with their neighbours as areas are overcrowded and people are suspicious and cautious in their dealings with others. Perhaps if people feel they have a common interest to improve their neighbourhood they can get together for meetings and get to know each other. Communal areas like local parks and playgrounds might encourage people to spend time together. Some neighbourhoods have even set up Neighbourhood Watch units to keep their area safe from crime. However, in order for all these changes to be effective, people living in the same area will need to make an effort.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p. 109

General Training - Model Answer (Task 2)

Life nowadays is generally much more stressful than in the past.  Give some reasons why people suffer more from stress nowadays and say what they can do to reduce it.

In most big cities of the world we see people rushing from one place to another, consuming many cups of coffee, suffering from insomnia and panic attacks and dying from stress-related diseases like heart attacks.  These are some of the side effects of living a stressful life.

Despite the fact that our lives have become easier and more comfortable we are currently more stressed.  Life is more competitive and in order to keep up with trends we have to work hard.  Employers are demanding and do not hesitate to fire workers that are not maintaining certain standards.  Consumerism and greed make people live beyond their means which is stressful.  In addition the rhythm of living in a metropolis that never sleeps, rush hour traffic and the pressure of trying to squeeze too many activities into a short period of time is another factor.

We can look to the past for a model of stress-free living. People were satisfied with obtaining their basic needs. Thus, people should strive to work fewer hours, follow a healthy diet and exercise in order to have a positive outlook to life.  They should avoid the trap of consumerism which leads to excessive spending.

To sum up, people have lost touch with nature and a simple lifestyle and have been sucked into dangerous spending patterns along with misleading priorities and values.  Stress is damaging to a person's wellbeing and should be avoided if someone wants to live a long life.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p. 110

General Training - Model Answer (Task 2)

It is often difficult for young people to find a good job without previous work experience. Governments should encourage employers to choose young people when they need new workers. Do you agree or disagree?


Once a young graduate gets their degree they are faced with the challenge of being selected for a job among a pile of CVs from other attractive candidates with a wealth of relevant work experience. Their chances of getting chosen are extremely slim.

Governments are in a position to give business incentives to hire recent graduates. This may include paying some of the worker’s salary, subsidizing their training or reducing the tax burden of a company. It is a good idea to hire young people as they have plenty of energy to work because they are fresh out of university. They tend to be ambitious and focused and will breathe new ideas into a company. In addition, because they lack work experience they are willing to accept a lower salary compared to someone who has been in the market for years. Finally, young people are willing and eager to learn in order to get ahead so an employer can benefit from this loyalty.

On the other hand, employers may be reluctant to hire graduates. They may prefer experienced workers who know the market well and have established good networks or they may not wish to waste time and money to train inexperienced staff.

To sum up, if no-one gives a young person an opportunity they will not be able to gain the work experience needed to get a job. Young people have plenty to offer a company and the government should intervene in this matter to promote them in the workplace.

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.113

Academic Writing - Task 2 (Model answer)

In many countries television shows many foreign-made programmes. The dominance of imported entertainment is harmful to the cultures of these countries. To what extent to you agree or disagree?

With the rise of globalization and the popularity of satellite TV and on-line shows, audiences are able to sample programmes that are produced all over the world. This means that the world appears to have become smaller as viewers are transported to Brazil through soap operas and to the USA for sitcoms or to England for football matches.

For those unfortunate people who are unable to travel, this type of entertainment allows them to pick up other languages, learn about other people’s lifestyles, see how traditional food is cooked and gain general knowledge about geography and culture. So in this respect, multi-culturalism is promoted and accepted.

Naturally a countries culture is affected by exposure to foreign programmes. Teenagers listen to rap music and dress like American hip-hop artists. Slang and swear words seep into the local language alarming linguists. Violence and nudity are popular in films made abroad and viewers absorb these scenes. Bored housewives start adopting the habits of stars in cheap soap operas. In general, what locals watch from abroad becomes the accepted norm and overshadows domestic values and morals. Some aspects of a foreign culture that are imitated might be contradictory to local customs.

In my opinion, foreign programmes are an opportunity for a country to introduce its culture and lifestyle to others. Unfortunately television is a powerful medium and subconsciously has the ability to influence a person’s choices and behaviour. It is perhaps for this reason that some people fear that it is harmful to local culture.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.92

General Training - Model Answer (Task 2)

Computers and modems have made it possible for office workers to do much of their work from home instead of working in offices every day. Working from home should be encouraged as it is good for workers and employers. Do you agree or disagree?

It is usual practice for workers to perform their duties in an office environment but advances in technology have made it possible for them to work from home. In fact, currently many workers in England spend a day of the week away from the office.

Those who are working in their home environment do not have to worry about travel time, rush hour, getting to work on time, dress code, packed lunches or office etiquette which causes stress to the average employee. Workers will feel comfortable in their home environment and perhaps will perform better.

On the other hand, employers may not be in full agreement with this arrangement. They will not be able to supervise or control the duties and timetable of their workers as they like. Working from home is also harmful for employees who need a clear distinction between office and home. Home is regarded as a personal place for relaxation and spending time with family while office is seen as a place of work. In addition, workers miss out on all other perks of working in an office such as team work, brainstorming and socializing. Being stuck at home may be lonely and anti-social.

To conclude, although working from home saves a worker time and money in terms of travel, lunches, expenditure on clothes etc., it also means that the boundary between work and pleasure is blurred and workers become anti-social. Employers would also prefer their staff to be in an area of direct access and control.
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.112

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.121

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

You would like a temporary job working in a summer camp which runs sports and outdoor activities for children and young people next summer.

 Write a letter to the organizers of the summer camp. In your letter:

• explain what sort of job you would like to do
• describe your personality
• say what experience and skills you have

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am interested in a temporary job as an instructor next summer at your camp. I understand that there is a lake next to the camp and the children are offered canoeing lessons. As my university closes for three months in the summer this job would be ideal for me.

I enjoy working with children as I am an extremely social and friendly person. I am also adventurous and open to new experiences and meeting new people. I have a positive outlook to life and I believe these traits are required for this position.

I am the captain of the university canoeing team and I have held this position for 2 years now. I manage all aspects of the sport from the equipment to competitions. Currently my university ranks number one in this sport. This position has helped me improve my leadership and communication skills and has taught me how to be responsible for the other team members. I am also equipped with a first aid certificate, diving instructor’s certificate and I am a qualified lifeguard.

Regards,

Pamela Anderson
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.101

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.121

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.119

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.119

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.120

Speaking IELTS - Part 2 & 3 (Model notes)

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.120

General Training - Model Answer (Task 2)

Nowadays many students have the opportunity to study for part or all of their courses in foreign countries. While studying abroad brings many benefits to individual students, it also has a number of disadvantages. Do you agree or disagree?

Many universities offer students exchange programmes like Erasmus which allows them to complete a semester abroad.  Others spend their entire student life in another country.

Studying abroad allows a student to come into contact with other cultures and lifestyles making an individual more open-minded.  Being away from family and a familiar environment enables a student to become independent, responsible, gain self-esteem, become confident and assertive, and to learn other skills such as cooking. Strengthening ones foreign language skills is another benefit.  All these skills and positive personality traits can be useful in the workplace too.

On the other hand, some students may not adapt very well far from home.  They may suffer from loneliness or experience a culture shock.  Dealing with unfamiliar situations alone may be overwhealming for them and they may become withdrawn or depressed.  Some others may use their new found freedom to squander their parents' life savings on shopping, recreational activities or drugs.

In my opinion, students stand to benefit greatly from being educated in another country.  It is a unique experience they will treasure and look back at in later life and it will allow them to grow as human beings.  I believe there are very few people who do not benifit from their time abroad.

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p.115

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

You eat at your college cafeteria every lunch time. However, you think it needs some improvements. Write a letter to the college magazine. In your letter: 

• explain what you like about the cafeteria
• say what is wrong with it
• suggest how it could be improved

 Dear Sir/Madam,

 I am a regular customer at the college cafeteria. In fact I have been having lunch there daily for the last three years since I started my studies at the college.

 The cafeteria conveniently serves lunch at 1 o’clock when all classes break. I am able to get an affordable lunch inside the college campus which is why I can spend hours there with my classmates discussing our lectures and playing pool when we have no afternoon classes. The meals are always hot, fresh and delicious which accounts for their popularity.

There are however two improvements that would better the quality of the cafeteria. Firstly, it is in need of a fresh look. No work has been done to the interior since I arrived. Secondly, the menu needs to be altered slightly to include more choice for vegetarians and healthy food options to keep up with current eating trends.

 Some colourful paint on the walls and modern furniture will create a better atmosphere and keep students in the cafeteria longer. Regarding the food, perhaps the chef could explore some other avenues and incorporate some hot vegetarian dishes to complement the salad bar already on offer.

Yours faithfully,

Gordon Thatcher

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p. 97

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

You normally go shopping in the area where you live. However, you think some of the facilities for shoppers could be improved. Write a letter to your local newspaper. In your letter:

• say in general what you like about shopping in your area
• say what is wrong with the facilities
• suggest how they could be improved

Dear Sir/Madam,

I regularly shop  at the new shopping complex that has been built in our town. I believe this was a good initiative and benefits the local residents who now have more choice, better deals, somewhere to spend their afternoon and of course new jobs are now available.

I am among those who welcomed the shopping complex as I previously had to travel quite a distance just to purchase the necessities. I am now able to combine shopping with other activities such as dining, drinking coffee and watching movies. The complex has been beautifully designed with plenty of greenery which is enough to keep any shopper happy.

Unfortunately, as a disabled person it is difficult to move around the complex. Even though the architects have provided disabled parking and ramps into the main mall, individual shops have steps leading inside and this prevents access. In effect, a person who is wheelchair bound can only enter the parking and the main entrance.

Understandable it is difficult to make any changes to the existing building but I would like to make a suggestion that would help disabled people immensely. Assistance could be available on the ground floor for those requiring it. Staff could help shoppers into the shops.

It is a pity for these facilities not to be enjoyed by all citizens and I hope this request is taken into account.

Yours faithfully,

Jasminda Singh

Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p. 98

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

An English-speaking friend is coming to study in your town/city next year and has written asking for information and advice.

Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:

• offer to find a place for him/her to live
• give advice about how to find a part-time job
• give information on where they can learn your language

 Dear Hope,

I’m so excited that you have finally decided to come to China to learn Mandarin and work at the same time. I can’t wait to see you and introduce you to my city.

Unfortunately I live with my parents and grandparents in a two-bedroom flat so I can’t offer you a place to stay. However, my aunt is an estate agent and I’ll be happy to speak to her on your behalf about accommodation. Let me know what you are looking for and I’ll pass the message onto her.

You mentioned that you were interested in getting a part-time job. In my city networking is important and jobs can be obtained if you have the right connections. Once you are here and have established yourself, you should be able to land a good job.

As for learning Mandarin there are many courses at local colleges but I recommend the one being offered by the university. It is good value for money and many foreigners opt for this route. Of course the best way is to work and practice speaking with the local people.

Best Wishes,

Wu Hongmei
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p. 106

General Training - Model Answer (Task 1)

You are going on a short training course at a college in Christchurch, New Zealand. You need somewhere to live while you are there.

 Write a letter to the accommodation officer at the college. In your letter:

• explain the situation
• describe the accommodation you require
• say when you will need it

Dear Ms. Chen,

I have been accepted on a short Management training course offered by your college. The course runs for three months and as I will be arriving directly from Vietnam I will need somewhere to stay during this period.

This is the first time I will be travelling to Christchurch so ideally I would prefer the accommodation to be centrally located and as close to the college as possible so that I may walk to classes. A small furnished studio would suit my needs. I would also like all the bills to be included in the rent price. Internet access is vital for my studies so the flat should provide this.

 

My course begins on the 10th of October and I expect to be in New Zealand a week earlier. Although the course runs until the 10th of December I plan to experience Christmas in Christchurch so my flight has been booked for the 29th.

 

I hope you will be able to find suitable accommodation for me and I look forward to receiving the housing contract.

 

Yours Sincerely,
Luke Ngueng
Question taken from Cambridge Instant IELTS p. 106