MASTER NKWEMI ROLAND CHUNDA
+237 677262487
[email protected]
Contact me for your IELTS preparations. Distance isn't a barrier
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SECRET TO IELTS TASK TWO QUESTIONS
Approaching IELTS Writing Task 2 questions—especially those that use phrases like "Discuss both views",
"Do you agree or disagree?", or "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"—requires a strategic
understanding of what the examiner expects. Here's a breakdown of key secrets and best practices for
each type:
1. "Discuss both views and give your opinion"
What does it ask for?
Present both sides of an argument equally.
Clearly state your own opinion.
Secrets To Success:
Structure: Use a four-paragraph model:
1. Introduction: Paraphrase the question + state both views + your opinion.
2. Body 1: Discuss the first view.
3. Body 2: Discuss the second view.
4. Conclusion: Summarize both views and reinforce your opinion.
NB-Balance is key: Avoid favoring one side too much when discussing. Save your judgment for the
conclusion or clearly explain your stance throughout.
Signal your opinion clearly using phrases like:
In my view...
I believe that...
In my opinion…
From my perspective…
Personally, I believe…
I feel that…
I am of the view that…
As far as I’m concerned…
I’m inclined to think that…
I hold the opinion that…
It’s my belief that…
I think that…
My take on this is…
In my eyes…
I’m of the mind that…
I think…
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2. "DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE?"
What does it ask for?
Take a clear position on the statement (agree or disagree) and Support with arguments.
Secrets to success:
Structure options:
Fully agree/disagree: Two body paragraphs supporting your view.
Partially agree: One paragraph supporting, one with opposing point + rebuttal or
Counterargument/Counterstatement
Be consistent: Don’t mix your stance. Choose a clear position and defend it.
Use strong language like:
I completely agree that...
I firmly disagree because...
Support with examples from real life, studies, or logic.
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3. "TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE?"
What it asks for:
Similar to "Do you agree or disagree?" but allows for more nuanced positions (e.g., partially agree).
Secrets to success:
Decide your level of agreement:
Fully agree/disagree.
Partially agree (e.g., agree to some extent but not entirely).
Structure example for partial agreement:
1. Introduction (paraphrase + clear position).
2. Body 1: Reason why you agree.
3. Body 2: Reason why you disagree or limitation of the argument.
4. Conclusion: Summarize your nuanced stance.
Signal your level of agreement:
While I agree with X to some extent, I believe that...
Although there is merit to this viewpoint, I contend that...
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General Writing Secrets Across All Types:
1. Plan before writing: Spend 5 minutes outlining arguments and structure.
2. Use topic-specific vocabulary: This boosts your Lexical Resource score.
3. Link ideas clearly: Use cohesive devices (however, moreover, on the other hand, Moreover… In
addition to… , Most importantly… , Another example is…
Mostly because… ).
4. Avoid repetition: Vary sentence structure and vocabulary.
5. Answer all parts: Failing to do so lowers your Task Response score.
Below are model essays for each of these task 2 types?
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1. "DISCUSS BOTH VIEWS AND GIVE YOUR OPINION"
Question:
Some people believe that children should start school at a very early age, while others think
they should begin at least 7 years old. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Essay:
In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate about the ideal age for children to begin formal
education. While some argue that starting school early enhances intellectual development, others
believe that delaying school until the age of seven is more beneficial. This essay will discuss both
perspectives and explain why I support the latter view.
Proponents of early education suggest that introducing children to academic learning at a young age
helps develop foundational skills, such as reading and numeracy, sooner. Early schooling, they argue,
can give children a head start and promote discipline, structure, and socialization from an early stage. In
highly competitive environments, starting early is often seen as a way to ensure academic success later
in life.
On the other hand, many believe that young children benefit more from unstructured play and
emotional development before entering formal education. Studies have shown that children who begin
school later tend to perform better in the long run, as they are more emotionally and cognitively
prepared. In countries like Finland, where formal education starts at age seven, students consistently
score high in global assessments, suggesting that delayed schooling may foster deeper learning.
In my opinion, starting school at around seven years old allows children to enjoy a stress-free childhood,
promoting creativity, curiosity, and emotional resilience. Early academic pressure can lead to burnout
and anxiety, which can hinder long-term growth.
In conclusion, while early education may offer some short-term academic advantages, I believe that a
later start better supports children's overall development and long-term success.
Question 2 :
Even though globalization affects the world’s economies in a very positive way, its negative
side should not be forgotten. Discuss.
Essay
Globalization is such a commonly used term in the twentieth century. It simply means that the
world has become integrated economically, socially, politically and culturally through the
advances of technology, transportation and communication. It is undeniable that globalization
has resulted in both positive and negative effects which must be addressed accordingly.
To begin with, globalization has contributed to the world’s economies in many beneficial ways.
The advances in science and technology have allowed businesses to easily cross over territorial
boundary lines. Consequently, companies tend to become more productive and competitive
thereby raising the quality of goods, services and the world’s living standard. Secondly, several
companies from the more developed countries have already ventured to establish foreign
operations or branches to take advantage of the low cost of labor in the poorer countries. This
kind of business activity will provide more influx of cash or investment funds into the less
developed countries.
However, one cannot deny the negative effects which have derived from globalization. One
crucial social aspect is the risk and danger of epidemic diseases which can easily be spread as
the transportation becomes easier and faster in today’s advanced society. This is evidenced in
the recent COVID 19 outbreak started in China and spread throughout the world in a twinkle of
an eye. Moreso, as large corporations invest or take over many offshore businesses, a modern
form of colonization will also evolve which may pose certain power pressure on the local
governments of the less developed countries. Unemployment rates in the more developed
regions such as Europe may also escalate as corporations choose to outsource to the cheaper
work force from Asian countries.
In conclusion. I like to reiterate that globalization is inevitable and we must urge individuals,
companies and governments to use a more balanced approach by taking the appropriate steps
to deal with matters relating to the financial or economical gains verses the social, political or
ecological concerns of the world.
Question 3:
Many people are now spending more and more time travelling to work or school. Some
people believe that this is a negative development while others think there are some benefits.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Essay:
These days, many people are spending an increasing amount of time commuting to their
workplace or school. Although there may be some benefits to this development, I believe it is
mostly negative.
There are only a couple of benefits that people could possibly gain from having to spend large
amounts of time travelling to and from work or school, which are mostly related to those who
commute via public transport. Firstly, travelling on public transport can allow people more time
to get things done that they have been too busy to complete. For example, some school kids
have to spend up to one hour travelling by bus every day and this is a great opportunity for
them to get their homework done. Likewise, some adults may use this time to catch up on
some unfinished work on their laptop, or plan their work schedule for the day. Furthermore,
sitting on a bus or train is also a great time to relax and read a book.
However, not all people can take advantage of these benefits. For example, in Vietnam, only a
small percentage of people use public transport and therefore have no opportunity to read or
catch up on work. Instead, most people are stuck in traffic jams during rush hours, sitting on a
motorbike breathing in toxic fumes from other vehicles, which in the long term can lead to a
number of serious health issues. Additionally, spending more and more time commuting leaves
less time for other more important activities, like spending time with loved ones, or pursuing
one’s hobbies. And lastly, from my observations, when travelling on public transport these days,
the majority of people are not reading or working, but keep their eyes glued to their
smartphone browsing social media, which could be considered as an a waste of time.
Overall, I believe this is a negative development, however it really depends upon how people
spend their time while travelling.
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2. "DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE?"
Question1:
Technology has made people less social. Do you agree or disagree?
Essay:
Technology has transformed how people communicate, work, and interact. Some argue that it has made
individuals less social, reducing face-to-face interactions. I completely agree with this statement, as
modern devices and digital platforms have changed the nature of social engagement.
Firstly, technology has led to a significant decline in direct, personal communication. Many people now
prefer texting, messaging, or emailing over meeting in person. Social media platforms, though designed
to connect, often result in superficial interactions rather than meaningful conversations. This shift has
contributed to a sense of isolation, especially among younger generations.
Secondly, the rise of smartphones and other personal devices has created physical barriers in social
settings. It is common to see people immersed in their screens even when surrounded by others. This
phenomenon, sometimes referred to as "phubbing" (phone snubbing), disrupts real-life social bonding
and diminishes the quality of human relationships.
However, it is worth acknowledging that technology can also facilitate connections, especially over long
distances. Video calls and online communities allow people to stay in touch globally. But these benefits
do not outweigh the negative impact on day-to-day social skills and personal interactions.
In conclusion, although technology offers new ways to connect, I firmly believe it has made people less
social by replacing deep, in-person connections with shallow digital interactions.
Question 2:
In the modern world, it is no longer necessary to use animals as food or other products, such
as medicines and clothing.
Do you agree or disagree?
Essay:
The argument over the use of animals to provide food, medicine, and clothing has been
ongoing for years. Some people consider the killing of animals to produce food and other
products to be unnecessary. In my view, I agree with this idea and will discuss several
compelling reasons in this essay.
These days, we are faced with many public health challenges regarding poor health conditions,
including cancer and heart disease, caused by excessive consumption of meat on a regular and
long-term basis.(1) Experts are calling for a change in human diets so that people can enjoy
better health. Fortunately, many alternative meat products are available on the market. In fact,
vegetarian diets are being favored by a growing number of people and can provide the same
amount of nutrients for consumers. In particular, mushrooms and tofu contain high levels of
protein, a kind of nutrient presumably only found in meat, and can therefore be used as a
substitute.(2)
Furthermore, medical experiments on animals and medicines manufactured from animals’ body
parts received little endorsement in the past. Nowadays, herbs and many other types of plant-
based medicines, such as ginseng, can cure many diseases, prolong human life expectancy, and
aid medical practitioners in the treatment of many illnesses. More seriously, thousands of wild
animals, such as tigers and minks, are killed each year, with their fur taken to produce coats and
accessories for the fashion industry.(3) There are now similar products made from plants and
artificial materials that can fulfill our needs. Animals do not have to suffer for our needs
anymore.
In conclusion, I think that our needs and desires do not justify the suffering of animals and
animal products are no longer necessary. We can choose a different source of nourishment,
medicine and clothing without any toll on wild animals.
Question 3:
Do you agree or disagree with the following statement? Advertising can tell you a lot about a
country. Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.
Essay:
Every country has its own culture and traditions. There is no doubt that an advertising
campaign conducted in Russia will not have the same affect here in the United States. Let us
take for example advertisement of food and restaurants.
A huge amount of fast food stands suggest their services for breakfast, lunch, dinner and
supper here in Houston. The competition is very strong. Every week you get in your mail-box an
envelope with different types of discounts in exchange for visiting them or ordering pizza.
Watching TV you are also from time to time invited to visit a restaurant in order to taste some
delicious food. It is not because it is easy to make money cooking but because the demand for
such service is high. First of all, people like to go out sometimes to have dinner with friends.
Second of all, it is often impossible to drive home for lunch. It can be time consuming.
As for Russia, it is a great tradition to have dinner at home with the family and go to the
restaurant for big holidays. Additionally fast food is not popular in Russia. So you will see
advertisements of yogurts, coffee, dairy products and juice instead of restaurants and fast food
stands.
In conclusion I would like to add that in order to succeed in advertising campaign especially on
the international market company must know traditions, language and history of the country.
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3. "TO WHAT EXTENT DO YOU AGREE OR DISAGREE?"
Question:
Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
Essay:
Crime is a persistent problem in many societies, and some believe that imposing longer prison sentences
is the most effective solution. While this approach may have certain deterrent effects, I disagree with
the idea that it is the best method for reducing crime. In my view, a combination of strategies, including
education and rehabilitation, is more effective.
On one hand, longer prison sentences can serve as a strong deterrent. Potential offenders may think
twice before committing crimes if they fear long-term imprisonment. Additionally, keeping dangerous
individuals away from society for extended periods may help reduce repeat offenses.
However, this approach does not address the root causes of criminal behavior. Many people turn to
crime due to poverty, lack of education, or social inequality. Without tackling these issues, longer
sentences merely punish individuals without offering them a path to change. For instance, Nordic
countries focus on rehabilitation rather than harsh penalties, and they have some of the lowest crime
rates in the world.
Furthermore, longer incarceration strains public resources. Prisons become overcrowded, and taxpayers
bear the burden of supporting inmates for extended periods. In contrast, investment in preventive
measures such as job training, mental health support, and community programs can reduce crime more
sustainably.
In conclusion, while longer prison terms may deter some criminals, I believe they are not the most
effective way to reduce crime. A balanced approach that focuses on prevention and rehabilitation offers
a more meaningful and long-lasting solution.
Question 2:
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?
Essay:
It is believed by some that mainstream media channels focus most of their attention on the problems
and urgent issues in society, rather than on positive news, and this trend is harmful to people. I partly
agree with this Idea because such a tendency involves both positive and negative impacts.
On the one hand, a higher frequency of news stories focusing on negative aspects in society is not a
good thing, and can have detrimental effects on people’s mental state. For example, news about
terrorism and war has become so common in the media that some people may hesitate to travel abroad
in fear of suffering from a terrorist attack. Secondly, it can also lead people to have a misunderstanding
about many aspects within society, which should be given greater respect and recognition. For example,
many tabloids, such as Dispatch of Korea or 14Channel of Vietnam, have always reported on the
scandals of celebrities, which can mislead the public into believing in the flaws of showbiz, whereas in
reality, it is an industry where many people have made many great contributions to society.
On the other hand, the focus on negative issues rather than positive developments is legitimate to some
extent. Firstly, the media can be seen as an effective way to spread news, to even the most remote
places, and this can help to bring people together in order to solve serious problems. The more people
that are informed about issues, the sooner they can be solved. Secondly, it can help to raise awareness
amongst citizens. The more negative stories appear in the media, the higher chance that people will
become aware of it and take action towards a solution. For instance, news coverage about cancer has
now become a common topic in the media, and as a result, a large amount of people have switched to a
healthier lifestyle.
In conclusion, the media has good reason to report on all issues, although the accompanying negative
impacts need to be considered.
Question 3:
Nowadays a large amount of advertising aimed at children should be banned because of the
negative effects.
To what extent do you agree or disagree
Essay:
These days, a large amount of advertising is aimed at children and some people feel that it should be
banned. While advertising can have several negative impacts on children, I believe it should not be
completely banned.
On the one hand, commercials aimed at children can have a detrimental impact, particularly on the
relationship between parents and their children. Many children are easily manipulated to want things
they see in advertisements, and this may cause conflicts between parents and children if parents deny
their children of something they want. In addition, advertising targeted at children can have negative
effects on their health, as many fast food and junk food companies these days direct their marketing
strategies towards children, making their products appear to be healthy and appealing. Unfortunately,
most children do not understand the concept of advertising and are easily persuaded to purchase these
unhealthy foods, and as a consequence, can be at risk of many serious health issues, such as obesity and
diabetes.
On the other hand, I feel that there should not be a ban on advertising aimed at children because
advertising is one of the key aspects of a prosperous economy. If bans were to be placed on
commercials, many companies would suffer from a decrease in sales and profits, which would
eventually affect unemployment rates and the economy. For example, Coca Cola provides thousands of
employment opportunities in advertising throughout its branches across different regions around the
world. If advertising was banned, a large number of workers, such as marketers, may become
unemployed, and as a result, the government will have to provide temporary financial support for those
unemployed people.
In conclusion, although advertising aimed at children may have certain negative impacts regarding
family relationships and health, imposing a prohibition on it is unreasonable.
NB- FOR EACH TASK TYPE, DON'T FORGET TO OBSERVE THEIR STRUCTURES (INTRODUCTION, BODY AND
CONCLUSION)
MASTER NKWEMI ROLAND CHUNDA
+237 677262487
[email protected]
