Posts tagged ‘UKVI’

Jun 15

In many countries, the amount of crime is increasing. What do you think are the main causes of crime? How can we deal with those causes?

C10 GA T2

Jun 15

Some parents buy their children a large number of toys to play with. What are the advantages and disadvantages for the child of having a large number of toys?

C10 GB T2

Jun 15

COMMONLY CONFUSED WORDS

Learning to differentiate these words will make you confident to face listening, writing and reading tests. To have linguistic acumen, one has to be immaculate in the selection of words. This chapter is aimed at raising some doubts in your mind to reflect and to discuss with the learned.

Jun 15

Thesaurus in English

A good command of synonyms and related words will be a cutting edge for you to excel in the writing test. The words are of intermediate level.

Jun 15

Impressive Grammatical Structures

Essays need impressive Grammatical Range to attract the reader. Read these as many times as possible to get used to the nuances of English structure. Pay attention to the phrases to the nuances of English structure.

Jun 15

A shortcut to Grammar

A few terms in Grammar you should be aware of:

Will, Shall:

Everybody shall die. Shall we come now?

The employees shall be on a monthly basis.

I will do it.

He will do it.

They will not come.

(Now the recent developments in English allows you to use WILL on most occasions)

Would:

I would like to go to America. I would like to tell you something. (Phrases)

Would you please do me a favour? Would you mind if I smoke? (Politeness)

If I were a bird, I would fly. (Hypothetical) Gandhiji would argue with Nehru.

He would smoke a lot before his death. (Used to) He told me that he would come (Tense Sequence) I would rather die, than beg

Should:

You should keep left. Should I be given a chance, I shall work diligently. (IF)

Have:

I have a car. He has a car. They have a car. I had a car. I have had my lunch.

Has, Had:

I have to get it now. I had to go to Kottayam. I had a haircut.

Do, Does:

Lal doesn’t know English. Lal and Gopi don’t do Yoga. He does not smoke.

Did:

He didn’t go to church. Who doesn’t have a car? Do they practice yoga?

May:

Mammotty may come.

Might:

Lal might come. Lal might have come.

Can:

I can lift an elephant. Could: I could not help him. Could you please put me to Miss. Mary? Could you please do me a favour? You could do that.

Be:

Let it be like that. To be or not to be is the question. If Veerappan were the P.M., how nice It would have been!

Being:

Being a trainer, I forgive you.

It being a holiday let us go for a film.

It is being painted.

Having:

Having a car attracts overheads.

Having enough funds, he could sleep well.

Ought to:

We ought to respect our parents.

Used to:

I used to smoke when I was in the Gulf.

Get:

She got married.

He got selected.

I’ve got it repaired.

I am getting lots of proposals.

Syntax:

Bachchan knows how to dance.

I know little Sanskrit.

The rich have exploited the poor.

Everybody/ Nobody/ Each/Every/ Everyone knows English.

(Agreement of verb with Subject is important in English)

Adjectives:

Humble Kevin is quietly leading a simple life in the midst of horrible hooligans,

Adverbs:

great plotters, grandiose friends, regressive politicians and silly students.

Articles:

An apple a day keeps the greedy doctor away.

I am going to the UK.

He is the man.

Hoarding will affect the availability of staple food.

The news is shocking.

Various Structures:

I wish I had a car.

He made me cry.

One of my Friends has gone to Calicut.

I look forward to hearing from you.

First come, first served.

The earlier the better.

It being a holiday, why should I come?

Little:

(Little, Few, Less, Seldom, Scarcely and rarely mean not enough.

(They are not totally negative.)

We know little about the origin of the universe.

Little knowledge is dangerous.

I have a little money for you. He hardly knows anything.

Few:

Few people attended the meeting.

Few have understood the Theory of lativity.

A few:

A few people attended the meeting.

The few:

The few people who had gathered there have also vanished.

Hardly:

Hardly anybody was there for the gathered there have also vanished.

Hardly anybody was there for the meeting.

Would have:

if I were there, the SI wouldn’t have beaten you.

Should have:

You should have told it to me yesterday.

Could have:

I could have helped you if needed.

Apposition:

Kevin, the innovative Magician, has a passion for novelty.

Gandhi, the renowned advocate of ahimsa, was assassinated.

Gerund:

Watching too much TV is injurious to health.

Eating meat will make you rude.

Phrases:

In the morning, at night, at home, in the long run. To my mind. In the meantime.

Idioms:

Let’s keep our fingers crossed. I am leaving for good. Sachin called it a day.

Collocations:

Let’s have lunch. Walking distance. In dire need. Pay attention. Ride a bike.

Complex Sentences:

She became the leader. Only because her father was assassinated.

As I have no wheels, how can I come for the meeting?

Compound sentences:

India is booming while the poor people are being exploited.

When Veerappan was after money, our bureaucrats are after power and money.

Has been:

He has been smoking for five years.

Have been:

I have been teaching English for he last 20 years.

(We have lived here for 20 years. This is correct) I had been working in the Gulf from 1976 to 1996. Gandhi had been assassinated.

Since:

I have been working since March, 08.

For:

I have been studying here for 3 months.

He has left for the US.

But for the fact that I am a woman, I should have hit him down.

Reported speech:

He told me that he would come. I asked him whether he would accompany me.

Correlative Conjunction:

Both Lal and Sal have come.

Either you go or I will. It is too heavy for me to lift.

The more you eat, the fatter you become.

Transitive Verb:

Rahul killed a mosquito.

Intransitive verb:

Mr. Birdy died.

Birds fly.

Homonyms:

I saw the saw mill.

Ice is not good for eyes.

I saw a sewing machine.

Conditional Clause:

If were you, I would have scored a 9 band.

If you cook, I will fast.

Conditional tense

Learn the nuances of conditional tense. This tense is not commonly taught in many of our schools and colleges. Learn it to avoid mistakes while using ‘if’ and ‘when’.

Jun 2

Forms of verbs

Learn the forms of verbs to speak and write well in English.

Apr 29

Recently asked IELTS speaking question – Part 2

Describe a thing you made by hand and presented it to someone.
You should also say:
What the thing was.
When you made it.
How you made it.
How easy/difficult it was to make.
To who did you present it.
Why you presented it to the person.
What their response was after receiving it.
Would you like to do it again.

Note: This is a question asking you to speak about an unusual habit people have in your country. Most people, in India, don’t make things by hand and present it to someone. Although that is the reality, you can speak about a hand craft you did when you were young to present it to a special friend or a relative. Think about what you have made by hand. If you have no such experience, you can say about a thing that you bought from the shop and packed it by yourself after adding more specification or particulars to it. Try preparing similar sample answers and speak it in front of a faculty to know how well you are able to mange this task. Eventually you will be confident to appear for the exam.

These are picture of handmade items that you can mention in your answer.

Apr 28

More and more students are studying at universities abroad, either because it is cheaper, or because they feel they can receive a better education, or because it will provide them with greater professional opportunities.

Disclaimer: This model answer has been prepared by expert trainers as a very good answer. However, please note that this is just one example out of many possible approaches. We have included maximum ideas, of which even if you remember a few points you can win the task. Don't memorise this sample answer, they are published only for students to understand the standard pattern in essay writing. You would never get the same question in the real test, but a question of similar model can be expected.

Apr 28

It has recently been suggested that the classical, or “dead”, languages Latin and Greek should be re-introduced into the school curriculum. Those that oppose the idea claim that the ancient languages are of no practical use and no help in getting a job. Those in favour of the idea say that education is more about training the mind than preparing for a career.

Apr 28

Tongue Twisters in English

Start by saying the tongue-twister slowly, then try to speed up. Once you can say a tongue twister through, try to say it twice or three times in a row for a bigger challenge.

Apr 24

Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish produced?

Apr 24

Some people believe that children are given too much free time. They feel that this time should be used to do more school work. How do you think children should spend their free time?

Apr 17

How important is dress code in our lives? Do you consider that dressing appropriately is important or are you of the opinion that everyone should be able to wear exactly what they like?

Apr 17

Dark Chocolate on the day of Exam

On the day of your exam, it is recommended to have 150 gms of Dark Chocolate.

There are no scientific evidences to prove your performance after eating a chocolate. However, for ages now our candidates have been able to face the exam with more confidence, sustain the temperature in the exam hall, withstand hunger till the exam gets over, controlled blood pressure and boosted flow of oxygen altogether help candidates do well with their exams.

Dark chocolate is a rich source of antioxidants and minerals, and it generally contains less sugar than milk chocolate. Some research suggests that dark chocolate may help lower the risk of heart disease, reduce inflammation and insulin resistance, and improve brain function.

People who are interested in adding dark chocolate to their diet should keep in mind that it is high in fat and calories, so moderation is key.

Try having a dark chocolate on a typically busy day. See how it influences on you. If you fell good you can have it on the day of the exam.

Disclaimer: Nothing is official about it.

There are many websites and blogs that mention about the benefits of having Dark Chocolates. Read it to know more about it.

Apr 13

Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of the society in which they are sold.

Mar 9

Paraphrasing in IELTS Reading

In IELTS Reading Test most often candidates are confused between the term in the question and the term in the passage while finding answers, especially in the case of, True / False / Not Given.

para

To solve this issue one must be familiar with the term paraphrasing. This is a technique in which a set of words in a sentence is replaced with different vocabulary which actually means nothing different from the previous words used. However, by replacing familiar words with unfamiliar words that carry the same meaning the test is able to confuse the test taker and find the real level of fluency the test taker has.

To be able to recognise and solve this issue one must do a lot of homework. Try and paraphrase the sample essays in the IELTS preparation materials, those are written by the examiners. Later on, once you think you are good at doing it, try and rephrase the sentences in the reading passage in the IELTS preparation materials. This will make you familiar with different ways of saying the same sentence.

For example: If you come across a sentence like this:

Children are often encouraged to play in ground instead of playing computer games.

You can paraphrase this sentence in many fashion such as:

Children should be advised to play in the ground rather than playing computer games.
Parents should motivate their children to play in the ground instead of playing computer games.

Search for examples of paraphrasing in Google for more knowledge.

Mar 9

Sample Read Aloud

Look at the text below. In 40 seconds, you must read this text aloud as naturally and clearly as possible. You have 40 seconds to read aloud.

Tips:

Break the text into chunks and pause slightly between each one as you read. Use the punctuation to help you decide where to pause and where each new chunk will begin.
As you read, stress the words that carry important information. This makes it easier to understand what you are saying.
Use rising intonation patterns to show a contrast.
Try to get a word stress right on multi-syllable words. Usually, the stress falls in the syllable before this – Pollution, combustion, Stations.
Look for sense groups, as well as the grammatical structure, to notice which groups of words should be said in one chunk: /to provide individuals with an income / once they stop working/.
Use falling intonation patterns to show that you have finished a point, or come to the end of what you are saying.

Tasks:

History rubs shoulders and often overlaps with many other areas of research, from myths and epics to the social sciences, including economics, politics, biography, demography, and much else besides. Some histories are almost pure narratives, while others go in for detailed, tightly-focused analysis of, for example, the parish records of a Cornish village in the 16th century.
There are many kinds of pond, but nearly all are small bodies of shallow, stagnant water in which plants with roots can grow. Water movement is slight and temperatures fluctuate widely. The wealth of plants ensures that during daylight hours oxygen is plentiful. However, at night, when photosynthesis no longer takes place, oxygen supplies can fall very low.
Before the time of Alexander the great, the only eastern people who could be compared with the Greeks in the fields of science and philosophy were from the Indian sub-continent. However, because so little is known about Indian chronology, it is difficult to tell how much of their science was original and how much was the result of greek influence.
While far fewer people these days write letters and therefore have less use for stamps, there are still a few categories of stamp which attract collectors. Stamps in common use for an indefinite period – until the price goes up – are called “definitive” issues, while a more collectible type of stamp is the “commemorative” issue, honouring people, events and anniversaries.
In the second quarter of the 19th century, a rapidly growing middle class created a great demand for furniture production. Yet at this stage, while machines were used for certain jobs, such as carved decoration, there was no real mass production. The extra demand was met by numerous woodworkers. Mass production came later and the quality of domestic furniture declined.
In the middle ages, the design and use of flags were considered a means of identifying social status. Flags were, therefore, the symbols not of nations, but of nobility. The design of each flag resembled the “devices” on the noble’s Coat of Arms, and the size of the flag was an indication of how high the owner stood in the nobility.
Statistics reflect vital information about the economy, the well being if the population, and the environment. Society relies in statistics being visible, accessible and robust, and on statistically literate people making the best use of the information to determine future action. Statistical literacy, then, is the ability to accurately understand, interpret and evaluate the data that inform these issues.
Housing fulfils the basic needs that people have for security, privacy and shelter. While the adequacy of housing is an important component of individual well- being, housing also has great impact in the nation’s economy, with its influence on investment levels, interest rates, building activity and employment.
Being physically active benefits people’s health significantly, including reducing the risk if some chronic conditions, helping to control weight, and improving mental health. In recent decades, there has been a decline in physical activity because more people work in office rather than in manual jobs.
Students who wish to take break from their studies will need to put in an application for Leave of Absence. If your application is successful, you will be notified via email. At the end of your Leave of Absence, you must re-enrol at Student Services and in the subjects you intend to study.
There are number of tests available which can suggest if a person is telling the truth, but knowing which ones are accurate is not easy. A newly created test is claimed to be the most accurate yet in lie detection. However, questions have been raised about its accuracy and ethics.
A student exchange programme complements formal education, while promoting tolerance, maturity and independence – all highly sought after qualities in today’s competitive job market. Living in the host country, not as a tourist or guest but as member of the community, is what makes the experience both challenging and rewarding.
Market research is a vital part of the planning of any business. However experienced you or your staff may be in a particular field. If you are thinking of introducing a service to a new ares, it is important to find out what the local population thinks about it first.
Not a lot is known about how the transportation of goods by water first began. Large cargo boats were being used in some parts of the world up to five thousand years ago. However, sea trade became more widespread when large sailing boats travelled between ports, carrying spices, perfumes and objects made by land.
When the young artist was asked abut his drawing, he explained that he had started by taking a photograph of himself sitting by a window at home. He then drew his face from the photograph and replaced the buildings which were outside the window with trees. This gave the picture a softer, more artistic background.
Humans need to use energy in order to exist. So it is unsurprising that the way people have been producing energy is largely responsible for current environmental problems. Pollution comes in many forms, but those that are most concerning, because of their impact on health, result from the combustion of fuels in power stations and cars.
Clearly, times are changing and while many people are saving for their retirement, many more still need to do so. Most countries have a range of pension schemes that are designed to provide individuals with an income once they stop working. People need to take advantage of these if they are to have sufficient money throughout their retirement years.
According to recent research, sunshine and warm weather have a positive effect in our moods. The British Journal of Psychology has published a report in which it claims that anxiety levels fall when temperatures rise, while increased exposure to sunshine makes us think more positively about our lives.
Tidal energy, also known as tidal power, is a renewable source of energy and a form of hydropower used to generate electricity from the energy of the tides. Though not currently widely utilised, due to high costs and limited availability, it can be called the energy resource of the future given the current rate of depletion of energy resources.
Certain types of methodology are more suitable for some research projects than others. For example, the use of questionnaires and surveys is more suitable for quantitative research whereas interviews and focus groups are more often used for qualitative research purposes.
Most countries are affected by labour migration. In many rural places, the traditional extended family has been undermined by the need for family members to migrate to towns as an economic necessity. Migration, therefore, presents a major challenge everywhere to social and economic policy.
One of the major factors influencing future home design will be the Probable change in climate, with hotter summers, colder winters, and the possibility of floods. Consequently, houses will be built with better insulation and will also need ways of keeping cool in hot weather, whether that’s air conditioning or more shading of windows.
Until fairly recent times, the origin of birds was one of evolution’s great mysteries. This is no longer the case. Fossil evidence from China now conclusively proves that there is an evolutionary link between birds and several types of extinct prehistoric reptiles which lived millions of years ago, or in other words, dinosaurs.
Group work is valuable because of the opportunities it provides for students to develop collaboration and communication skills. As an assessments task, it has the potential to pose difficulties in relation to appropriate acknowledgement of authorship of individual group members. These difficulties can be minimised by ensuring that the task is well designed, with the roles of individuals effectively identified.
The Italian alphabet has fewer letters in comparison with the English alphabet. Italian does not use the letters J,K,W,X or Y – except in borrowed words. However, young Italians are increasingly using the letter K in words that would be written with C or CH in standard Italian orthography.
Summer hill School was regarded with considerable suspicion by the educational establishment. Lesson were optional for pupils at the school, and the government of the school was carried out by a School Council, of which all the pupils and staff were members, with everyone having equal voting rights.
This term the University is running a series of workshops for final year students on how to do well in interviews. These sessions will help Participants prepare effectively for – and perform at their best during – later job interviews. The workshop tutors have an excellent record of success in helping students acquire the positions they desire.
Tasmania is a large and relatively sparsely populated island off the south coast of Australia. The island is of particular interest to natural scientists, who go there to research the unique wildlife. Tasmania has, for example, twelve species of bird that are not found anywhere else in the world.
Honey has traditionally been credited with significant medical powers, and it has played a major part in many folk remedies. But it seems now its efficacy is not just an old wives’ tale. Recent research has shown there is scientific evidence to prove that honey contains elements that prevent bacteria from growing.
The College has a fascinating museum dedicated to archaeology and anthropology. It contains information about many of the studies which have been carried out by members of the College over the five hundred years of its existence. There are many unique exhibits brought back from excavations and explorations in all the continents.

These are sample paragraphs taken from authorised PTE practise materials for referencing. Don’t limit your practise with these paragraphs. Have some interest and read a lot of other paragraphs that you may find in magazines, newspapers and wikipedia articles.

Casper Academy is a PTE coaching center in Vyttila, Kochi. Since 2001. We are available throughout the day. Candidates can opt to attend classes at their convenient time of the day.

Mar 9

Issue Topics

This page contains the Issue topics for the Analytical Writing section of the GRE® revised General Test. When you take the test, you will be presented with one Argument topic from this pool.

Each Issue topic consists of an issue statement or statements followed by specific task instructions that tell you how to respond to the issue. The wording of some topics in the test might vary slightly from what is presented here. Also, because there may be multiple versions of some topics with similar or identical wording but with different task instructions, it is very important to read your test topic and its specific task directions carefully and respond to the wording as it appears in the actual test.

As people rely more and more on technology to solve problems, the ability of humans to think for themselves will surely deteriorate. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
To understand the most important characteristics of a society, one must study its major cities. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Educational institutions have a responsibility to dissuade students from pursuing fields of study in which they are unlikely to succeed. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Scandals are useful because they focus our attention on problems in ways that no speaker or reformer ever could. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Claim: Governments must ensure that their major cities receive the financial support they need in order to thrive. Reason: It is primarily in cities that a nation’s cultural traditions are preserved and generated. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
A nation should require all of its students to study the same national curriculum until they enter college. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Some people believe that government funding of the arts is necessary to ensure that the arts can flourish and be available to all people. Others believe that government funding of the arts threatens the integrity of the arts. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Claim: In any field—business, politics, education, government—those in power should step down after five years. Reason: The surest path to success for any enterprise is revitalization through new leadership. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
In any field of endeavor, it is impossible to make a significant contribution without first being strongly influenced by past achievements within that field. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Nations should pass laws to preserve any remaining wilderness areas in their natural state, even if these areas could be developed for economic gain. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
People’s behaviour is largely determined by forces not of their own making. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Governments should offer a free university education to any student who has been admitted to a university but who cannot afford the tuition. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Universities should require every student to take a variety of courses outside the student’s field of study. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
A nation should require all of its students to study the same national curriculum until they enter college. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Educational institutions should actively encourage their students to choose fields of study that will prepare them for lucrative careers. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Some people believe that in order to be effective, political leaders must yield to public opinion and abandon principle for the sake of compromise. Others believe that the most essential quality of an effective leader is the ability to remain consistently committed to particular principles and objectives. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Formal education tends to restrain our minds and spirits rather than set them free. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The well-being of a society is enhanced when many of its people question authority. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Governments should focus on solving the immediate problems of today rather than on trying to solve the anticipated problems of the future. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Some people believe that college students should consider only their own talents and interests when choosing a field of study. Others believe that college students should base their choice of a field of study on the availability of jobs in that field. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Laws should be flexible enough to take account of various circumstances, times, and places. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Claim: The best way to understand the character of a society is to examine the character of the men and women that the society chooses as its heroes or its role models. Reason: Heroes and role models reveal a society’s highest ideals. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Governments should place few, if any, restrictions on scientific research and development. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
The best way to teach is to praise positive actions and ignore negative ones. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Governments should offer college and university education free of charge to all students. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
The luxuries and conveniences of contemporary life prevent people from developing into truly strong and independent individuals. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
In any field of inquiry, the beginner is more likely than the expert to make important contributions. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The surest indicator of a great nation is represented not by the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists, but by the general welfare of its people. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The best way to teach—whether as an educator, employer, or parent—is to praise positive actions and ignore negative ones. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Teachers’ salaries should be based on their students’ academic performance. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Society should make efforts to save endangered species only if the potential extinction of those species is the result of human activities. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
College students should base their choice of a field of study on the availability of jobs in that field. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
As we acquire more knowledge, things do not become more comprehensible, but more complex and mysterious. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
In any situation, progress requires discussion among people who have contrasting points of view. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Educational institutions should dissuade students from pursuing fields of study in which they are unlikely to succeed. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Governments should not fund any scientific research whose consequences are unclear. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Society should identify those children who have special talents and provide training for them at an early age to develop their talents. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
It is primarily through our identification with social groups that we define ourselves. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
College students should be encouraged to pursue subjects that interest them rather than the courses that seem most likely to lead to jobs. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Claim: When planning courses, educators should take into account the interests and suggestions of their students. Reason: Students are more motivated to learn when they are interested in what they are studying. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
The greatness of individuals can be decided only by those who live after them, not by their contemporaries. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Students should always question what they are taught instead of accepting it passively. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The increasingly rapid pace of life today causes more problems than it solves. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Claim: It is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero. Reason: The reputation of anyone who is subjected to media scrutiny will eventually be diminished. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Competition for high grades seriously limits the quality of learning at all levels of education. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Universities should require every student to take a variety of courses outside the student’s field of study.
Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Educators should find out what students want included in the curriculum and then offer it to them. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Educators should teach facts only after their students have studied the ideas, trends, and concepts that help explain those facts. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Claim: We can usually learn much more from people whose views we share than from those whose views contradict our own. Reason: Disagreement can cause stress and inhibit learning. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Government officials should rely on their own judgment rather than unquestioningly carry out the will of the people they serve. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Young people should be encouraged to pursue long-term, realistic goals rather than seek immediate fame and recognition. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
The best way to teach is to praise positive actions and ignore negative ones. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
If a goal is worthy, then any means taken to attain it are justifiable. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
In order to become well-rounded individuals, all college students should be required to take courses in which they read poetry, novels, mythology, and other types of imaginative literature. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
In order for any work of art—for example, a film, a novel, a poem, or a song—to have merit, it must be understandable to most people. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Many important discoveries or creations are accidental: it is usually while seeking the answer to one question that we come across the answer to another. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The main benefit of the study of history is to dispel the illusion that people living now are significantly different from people who lived in earlier times. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Learning is primarily a matter of personal discipline; students cannot be motivated by school or college alone. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Scientists and other researchers should focus their research on areas that are likely to benefit the greatest number of people. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Politicians should pursue common ground and reasonable consensus rather than elusive ideals. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
People should undertake risky action only after they have carefully considered its consequences. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Leaders are created by the demands that are placed on them. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
There is little justification for society to make extraordinary efforts—especially at a great cost in money and jobs—to save endangered animal or plant species. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The human mind will always be superior to machines because machines are only tools of human minds. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Every individual in a society has a responsibility to obey just laws and to disobey and resist unjust laws. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
People who are the most deeply committed to an idea or policy are also the most critical of it. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Some people believe that society should try to save every plant and animal species, despite the expense to humans in effort, time, and financial well-being. Others believe that society need not make extraordinary efforts, especially at a great cost in money and jobs, to save endangered species. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Some people believe that the purpose of education is to free the mind and the spirit. Others believe that formal education tends to restrain our minds and spirits rather than set them free. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Some people believe it is often necessary, even desirable, for political leaders to withhold information from the public. Others believe that the public has a right to be fully informed. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Claim: Universities should require every student to take a variety of courses outside the student’s major field of study. Reason: Acquiring knowledge of various academic disciplines is the best way to become truly educated. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Young people should be encouraged to pursue long-term, realistic goals rather than seek immediate fame and recognition. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Governments should not fund any scientific research whose consequences are unclear. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Colleges and universities should require all faculty to spend time working outside the academic world in professions relevant to the courses they teach. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Knowing about the past cannot help people to make important decisions today. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
In this age of intensive media coverage, it is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
We can usually learn much more from people whose views we share than from people whose views contradict our own. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The most effective way to understand contemporary culture is to analyze the trends of its youth. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
People’s attitudes are determined more by their immediate situation or surroundings than by society as a whole. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Claim: The best test of an argument is its ability to convince someone with an opposing viewpoint. Reason: Only by being forced to defend an idea against the doubts and contrasting views of others does one really discover the value of that idea. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Nations should suspend government funding for the arts when significant numbers of their citizens are hungry or unemployed. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
All parents should be required to volunteer time to their children’s schools. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Colleges and universities should require their students to spend at least one semester studying in a foreign country. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Teachers’ salaries should be based on the academic performance of their students. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
It is no longer possible for a society to regard any living man or woman as a hero. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Some people believe that in order to thrive, a society must put its own overall success before the well-being of its individual citizens. Others believe that the well-being of a society can only be measured by the general welfare of all its people. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Some people believe that government officials must carry out the will of the people they serve. Others believe that officials should base their decisions on their own judgment. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Claim: Any piece of information referred to as a fact should be mistrusted, since it may well be proven false in the future. Reason: Much of the information that people assume is factual actually turns out to be inaccurate. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Claim: Nations should suspend government funding for the arts when significant numbers of their citizens are hungry or unemployed. Reason: It is inappropriate—and, perhaps, even cruel—to use public resources to fund the arts when people’s basic needs are not being met. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Claim: Many problems of modern society cannot be solved by laws and the legal system. Reason: Laws cannot change what is in people’s hearts or minds. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Educators should take students’ interests into account when planning the content of the courses they teach. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
The primary goal of technological advancement should be to increase people’s efficiency so that they have more leisure time. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Educators should base their assessment of students’ learning not on students’ grasp of facts but on the ability to explain the ideas, trends, and concepts that those facts illustrate. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Unfortunately, in contemporary society, creating an appealing image has become more important than the reality or truth behind that image. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The effectiveness of a country’s leaders is best measured by examining the well-being of that country’s citizens. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
All parents should be required to volunteer time to their children’s schools. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
A nation should require all of its students to study the same national curriculum until they enter college. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Colleges and universities should require their students to spend at least one semester studying in a foreign country. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Educational institutions should actively encourage their students to choose fields of study in which jobs are plentiful. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
People’s behaviour is largely determined by forces not of their own making. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Colleges and universities should require their students to spend at least one semester studying in a foreign country. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Although innovations such as video, computers, and the Internet seem to offer schools improved methods for instructing students, these technologies all too often distract from real learning. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Universities should require every student to take a variety of courses outside the student’s field of study. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
The best ideas arise from a passionate interest in commonplace things. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
To be an effective leader, a public official must maintain the highest ethical and moral standards. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Claim: Imagination is a more valuable asset than experience. Reason: People who lack experience are free to imagine what is possible without the constraints of established habits and attitudes. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
In most professions and academic fields, imagination is more important than knowledge. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
To be an effective leader, a public official must maintain the highest ethical and moral standards. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Critical judgment of work in any given field has little value unless it comes from someone who is an expert in that field. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Some people believe that scientific discoveries have given us a much better understanding of the world around us. Others believe that science has revealed to us that the world is infinitely more complex than we ever realised. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Critical judgment of work in any given field has little value unless it comes from someone who is an expert in that field. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
In any profession—business, politics, education, government—those in power should step down after five years. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Requiring university students to take a variety of courses outside their major fields of study is the best way to ensure that students become truly educated. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Claim: The surest indicator of a great nation is not the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists. Reason: The surest indicator of a great nation is actually the welfare of all its people. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Any leader who is quickly and easily influenced by shifts in popular opinion will accomplish little. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Government officials should rely on their own judgment rather than unquestioningly carry out the will of the people whom they serve. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
A nation should require all of its students to study the same national curriculum until they enter college. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
It is primarily in cities that a nation’s cultural traditions are generated and preserved. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
We can learn much more from people whose views we share than from people whose views contradict our own. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
When old buildings stand on ground that modern planners feel could be better used for modern purposes, modern development should be given precedence over the preservation of historic buildings. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Claim: The surest indicator of a great nation must be the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists. Reason: Great achievements by a nation’s rulers, artists, or scientists will ensure a good life for the majority of that nation’s people. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Some people claim that you can tell whether a nation is great by looking at the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists. Others argue that the surest indicator of a great nation is, in fact, the general welfare of all its people. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
The best way to understand the character of a society is to examine the character of the men and women that the society chooses as its heroes or its role models. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
The best way for a society to prepare its young people for leadership in government, industry, or other fields is by instilling in them a sense of cooperation, not competition. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
All college and university students would benefit from spending at least one semester studying in a foreign country. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Some people claim that a nation’s government should preserve its wilderness areas in their natural state. Others argue that these areas should be developed for potential economic gain.
Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
In most professions and academic fields, imagination is more important than knowledge. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
The surest indicator of a great nation is not the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists, but the general well-being of all its people. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Some people argue that successful leaders in government, industry, or other fields must be highly competitive. Other people claim that in order to be successful, a leader must be willing and able to cooperate with others. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
College students should base their choice of a field of study on the availability of jobs in that field. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the recommendation and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, describe specific circumstances in which adopting the recommendation would or would not be advantageous and explain how these examples shape your position.
Some people believe that corporations have a responsibility to promote the well-being of the societies and environments in which they operate. Others believe that the only responsibility of corporations, provided they operate within the law, is to make as much money as possible. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Claim: Researchers should not limit their investigations to only those areas in which they expect to discover something that has an immediate, practical application. Reason: It is impossible to predict the outcome of a line of research with any certainty. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Some people believe that our ever-increasing use of technology significantly reduces our opportunities for human interaction. Other people believe that technology provides us with new and better ways to communicate and connect with one another. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Claim: Knowing about the past cannot help people to make important decisions today. Reason: The world today is significantly more complex than it was even in the relatively recent past. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Claim: Knowing about the past cannot help people to make important decisions today. Reason: We are not able to make connections between current events and past events until we have some distance from both. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Educational institutions should actively encourage their students to choose fields of study that will prepare them for lucrative careers. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Educational institutions should actively encourage their students to choose fields of study in which jobs are plentiful. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
Educational institutions have a responsibility to dissuade students from pursuing fields of study in which they are unlikely to succeed. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Some people believe that competition for high grades motivates students to excel in the classroom. Others believe that such competition seriously limits the quality of real learning. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Claim: Major policy decisions should always be left to politicians and other government experts. Reason: Politicians and other government experts are more informed and thus have better judgment and perspective than do members of the general public. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
Some people believe that universities should require every student to take a variety of courses outside the student’s field of study. Others believe that universities should not force students to take any courses other than those that will help prepare them for jobs in their chosen fields. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
It is more harmful to compromise one’s own beliefs than to adhere to them. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Claim: Colleges and universities should specify all required courses and eliminate elective courses in order to provide clear guidance for students. Reason: College students—like people in general—prefer to follow directions rather than make their own decisions. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim and the reason on which that claim is based.
No field of study can advance significantly unless it incorporates knowledge and experience from outside that field. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
True success can be measured primarily in terms of the goals one sets for oneself. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The general welfare of a nation’s people is a better indication of that nation’s greatness than are the achievements of its rulers, artists, or scientists. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
The best test of an argument is the argument’s ability to convince someone with an opposing viewpoint. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
The effectiveness of a country’s leaders is best measured by examining the well-being of that country’s citizens. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider ways in which the statement might or might not hold true and explain how these considerations shape your position.
Nations should pass laws to preserve any remaining wilderness areas in their natural state. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.
In any field—business, politics, education, government—those in power should be required to step down after five years. Write a response in which you discuss your views on the policy and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should consider the possible consequences of implementing the policy and explain how these consequences shape your position.
Some people believe that corporations have a responsibility to promote the well-being of the societies and environments in which they operate. Others believe that the only responsibility of corporations, provided they operate within the law, is to make as much money as possible. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
Some people claim that the goal of politics should be the pursuit of an ideal. Others argue that the goal should be finding common ground and reaching reasonable consensus. Write a response in which you discuss which view more closely aligns with your own position and explain your reasoning for the position you take. In developing and supporting your position, you should address both of the views presented.
The best way to solve environmental problems caused by consumer-generated waste is for towns and cities to impose strict limits on the amount of trash they will accept from each household. Write a response in which you discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the claim. In developing and supporting your position, be sure to address the most compelling reasons and/or examples that could be used to challenge your position.

Mar 9

Develop your Intonation

Using the right intonation makes the listener very comfortable in understanding the speaker. A rising intonation and a falling intonation are used for different purposes. To use appropriate intonation, at first one has to cut chunks and break a sentence in to two or more half.

The following are the list of areas when you can cut chunks:

. to .

. to ,

, to ,

, to .

Before prepositions

After conjunctions

at other punctuation marks.

The following is a paragraph cut into chunks for you to understand the method easily.

The ‘/’ is used to cut sentences. ‘//’ represent closing of the sentence.

Full stops – Falling Intonation

Contrast ideas – Rising Intonation

Important ideas – Rising Intonation

Adjectives – Rising Intonation

Nouns – Rising Intonation

∏∏Commas – Singing Intonation

Words with more than one syllable – Singing Intonation

Try reading the paragraph above to practise speaking with right intonation. Do similar exercise often with different paragraphs to be good at intonations.

æææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææ

Housing fulfils the basic needs that people have / for security,/ privacy and/ shelter.// While the adequacy of housing is an important component/ of individual well-being,/ housing also has great impact/ in the nation’s economy,/ with its influence/ on investment levels,/ interest rates,/ building activity and/ employment.//

æææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææææ

Mar 7

Try and make some questions with the sentences below.

Try and make questions for the sentences given here. It is not that easy. Try it for yourself. Don't forget to get it corrected by an English faculty.

Mar 7

How to write an essay

You may have to read and comprehend all sections of the question thoroughly to understand what is expected in your response to the question. Test takers from non-English speaking countries should cut the question into chunks to understand it better.

Mar 7

Sample Essay Questions

For some questions we have written sample answers. Click the question and you will be redirected to the appropriate sample answers’ page.

Business women signature at document

ESSAY QUESTIONS

PTE Academic Essay Questions

You will have 20 minutes to plan, write and revise an essay about the topic below. Your response will be judged on how well you develop a position, organize your ideas, present supporting details, and control the elements of standard written English. You should write 200-300 words. Click on the questions for sample answers written by experts.

When computers first appeared on the scene, it was thought they would make us more productive in providing goods and services, smarter and possibly happier. Skeptics claim that the opposite is true as computers have proved disappointing in terms of productivity, and have made us less happy and more stupid because information is not knowledge.Which of these points of view do you agree with most? Support your argument with reasons and/or examples from your own experience and observations.
It has recently been suggested that the classical, or “dead”, languages Latin and Greek should be re-introduced into the school curriculum. Those that oppose the idea claim that the ancient languages are of no practical use and no help in getting a job. Those in favour of the idea say that education is more about training the mind than preparing for a career.Which of these points of view do you agree with most? Support your argument with reasons and/or examples from your own experience and observations.
More and more students are studying at universities abroad, either because it is cheaper, or because they feel they can receive a better education, or because it will provide them with greater professional opportunities.Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad. Support your argument with reasons and/or examples from your own experience and observations.
Some people prefer to spend their holidays in resorts where everything is organized for them and they take little interest in the country they are vising. Others prefer to travel around the country and to see how the people live, to get to know their customs and traditions and cuisine. Write an essay on which type of foreign travel you think is best for both the tourist and the local community.
Most people in what are known as the developed nations have homes full of gadgets and labor-saving devices, from vacuum cleaners and dishwashers to the latest in computer technology. Some people claim that despite all these labor-saving devices, we seem to have less free time. In your opinion, has technology improved the quality of life or made it more complicated? Support your argument with reasons and/or examples from your own experience and observations.
A recent trend in the entertainment world is to adapt classic works of literature for either TV or the movies. One argument is that this is to everyone’s benefit, as it introduces people to works they might otherwise never have experienced, while others say that turning books into movies not only cheapens the original, but is rarely done successfully. In your opinion, do works of literature translate effectively to the screen? Support your argument with reasons and/or examples from your own experience and observations.
When Computers first appeared on the scene, it was thought they would make us more productive in providing good and services, smarter and possibly happier. Sceptics claim that the opposite is true as computers have proved disappointing in terms of productivity, and have made us less happy and more stupid because information in not knowledge. Which of these points do you agree with most? Support your argument with reasons and / or examples from your own experience and observations.
‘Education is a critical element of the prosperity of any nation. The more educated the people in a country are, the more successful their nation becomes.’ Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement. Support your point of view with reasons and / or examples from your own experience or observations.
‘Students should be required to stay in school until the age of eighteen.’ To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Support your point of view with reasons and / or examples from your own experience.
‘Environmental problems are too great to be managed by individuals so real change can only be achieved at government level.’ To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Support your point of view with reasons and / or examples from your own experience.
‘Some types of employments are more suitable for men and other types of employment are more appropriate for women’. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement? Support your point of view with reasons and / or examples from your own experience.
‘Nowadays many young people leave home at an early age to either study or work in another city.’ Do you think this has more advantages or disadvantages for young people? Support your point of view with reasons and / or examples from your own experience.
‘Computer technology has had more of a negative than a positive impact on society.’ How far do you agree with this statement? Support your point of view with reasons and / or examples from your own experience.

IELTS

Cambridge 5

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

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

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing high school and starting university studies.

Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young people who decide to do this.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people think that a sense of competition in children should be encouraged. Others believe that children who are taught to co-operate rather than compete become more useful adults.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our personality and development than any experience we may have in our life.

Which do you consider to be the major influence.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Your neighbours have recently written to you to complain about the noise from your houseflat.

Write a letter to your neighbours. In your letter

Explain the reasons for the noise

Apologise

Describe what action you will take

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that children are given too much free time. They feel that this time should be used to do more school work.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have a full time job and are also doing a part-time evening course.

You now find that you cannot continue the course.

Write a letter to the course tutor. In your letter

Describe the situation

Explain why you cannot continue at this time

Say what action you would like to take.

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays we are producing more and more rubbish. Why do you think this is happening? What can governments do to help reduce the amount of rubbish produced?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Cambridge 6

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs of the society in which they are sold.

To what extend do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that visitors to other countries should follow local customs and behaviour. Others disagree and think that the host country should welcome cultural differences.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

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.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You and your family are living in rented accommodation in an English- speaking country. You are not satisfied with the condition of some of the furniture.

Write a letter to the landlord. In your letter

Introduce yourself

Explain what is wrong with the furniture

Say what action you would like the landlord to take

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people think it would be a good idea for schools to teach every young person how to be a food parent.

Do you agree or disagree with this opinion. Describe the skills a person needs to be a good parent.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have just moved into a new home and are planning to hold a party. You are worried that the noise may disturb your neighbour.

Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter

Introduce yourself

Describe your plans for the party

Invite your neighbours to come

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Using a computer every day can have more negative than positive effects on young children.

Do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Cambridge 7

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to become a good sports person or musician.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.

Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

As most people spend a major part of their adult life at work, job satisfaction is an important element of individual wellbeing.

What factors contribute to job satisfaction?

How realistic is the expectation of job satisfaction for all workers?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

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

What, in your opinion, should be the main function of a university?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have recently started work in a new company.

Write a letter to an English – speaking friend. In your letter

Explain why you changed jobs

Describe your new job

Tell him/her your other news

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people prefer to live in a house, while others feel that there are more advantages to living in an apartment.

Are there more advantages than disadvantages of living in a house compared with living in an apartment?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Last month you had a holiday overseas where you stayed with some friends. They have just sent you some photos of your holiday.

Write a letter to your friends. In your letter

Thank them for the photos and for the holiday

Explain why you didn’t write earlier

Invite them to come and stay with you

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people feel that entertainers (e.g. film stars, pop musicians or sports stars) are paid too much money.

Do you agree or disagree?

Which other type of job should be highly paid?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Cambridge 8

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society. Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology.

In what ways technology affected the types of relationships people make?

Has this become a positive or negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

What other measures do you think might be effective?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

In some countries the average weight of people is increasing and their levels of health and fitness are decreasing.

What do you think are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have recently moved to different house.

Write a letter to an English – speaking friend. In your letter

Explain why you have moved

Describe the new house

Invite your friend to come and visit

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Today more people are travelling than ever before.

Why is this the case?

What are the benefits of travelling for the traveller?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You recently bought a piece of equipment for your kitchen but it did not work. You phoned the shop but no action was taken.

Write a letter to the shop manager. In your letter

Describe the problem with the equipment

Explain what happened when you phoned the shop

Say what you would like the manager to do.

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people think that it is better to educate boys and girls in separate schools. Others, however, believe that boys and girls benefit more from attending mixed schools.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Cambridge 9

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary school rather than secondary school.

Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantage?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood or teaching sports to younger children)

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that other measures are required.

Discuss both the views and give your own opinion.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Every year several languages die out. Some people think that this is not important because life will be easier if there are fewer languages in the world.

To what extend do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You are working for a company. You need to take some time off work and want to ask your manager about this.

Write a letter to your manager. In your letter

Explain why you want to take time off work

Give details of the amount of time you need

Suggest how your work could be covered while you are away.

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Being a celebrity – such as a famous film star or sports personality – brings problems as well as benefits.

Do you think that being a celebrity brings more benefits or more3 problems?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

On a recent holiday you lost a valuable item. Fortunately you have travel insurance to cover the cost of anything lost.

Write a letter to the manager of your insurance company. In your letter

Describe the item you lost

Explain how you lost it

Tell the insurance company what you would like them to do

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people think that the teenage years are the happiest times of most people’s lives. Others think that adult life brings more happiness, in spite of greater responsibilities.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

IELTS

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Learning English at school is often seen as more important than learning local languages. If these are not taught, many are at risk of dying out.

In your opinion, is it important for everyone to learn English? Should we try to ensure the survival of local languages and, if so how?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have lost an item of value on a train.

Write a letter to the railway company. In your letter

Describe the item

Explain where and when you left it

Say what action you would like the company to take

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Some people think that having a set retirement age (e.g. 65years) for everybody, regardless of occupation, is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to retire and receive a pension at an earlier age.

Do you agree or disagree?

Which type of workers do you think should benefit from early retirement?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Solar energy is becoming more and more popular as a source of household energy in many countries around the world.

Why is this?

What are the advantages and disadvantages of solar energy?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

You have a problem with a neighbour.

Write a letter to your neighbour. In your letter

Describe the problem

Say how long it has been a problem

Explain what action you want the neighbour to take

Write at least 150 words.

You do not need to write any addresses. Begin your letter as follows:

Dear……………..

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

It is generally accepted that exercise is good for children and teenagers. Therefore, physical education and sport should be compulsory for all students in all schools. What do you think?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Rising university fees and scare employment prospects for graduates have led some people to say that universities should not teach arts subjects, like philosophy and history, and only offer practical degree courses that maximise chances of employment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Most people accept that we now live in a globalised world but not everyone agrees that this is beneficial.

To what extent is globalisation a positive or negative development?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

BARRON’S – The leader in test preparation

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

As the world become technologically advanced, computers are replacing more and more jobs.

Describe job positions that may be lost because of computers, and discuss at least one problem that may result?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Families who do not send their children to government-financed schools should not be required to pay taxes that support univer5sal education.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

By punishing murders with the death penalty, society is also guilty of committing murder. Therefore, life in prison is a better punishment for murderers.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

As compared to the past, children these days spend more of their leisure time indoors with computer and TV and less time outdoors.

Describe some of the problems this lack of outdoor leisure time can cause and suggest at least one possible solution.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Modern technology, such as personal computer and the internet have made it possible for many people to do their work from home at least part of the time instead of going to an office every day. What are some of the advantages and disadvantages of this situation?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Children today spend more time watching television than they did in the past. Describe some of the advantages and disadvantages of television for children.

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

TOEFL

Leaders like john F. Kennedy and Martin Luther King have made important contributions to the people of the United States. Name another world leader you think is important. Give specific reasons for your choice.
Read and think about the following statement: Pets should be treated like family members. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons to support your opinion.

Read and think about the following statement: The college years are the best time in person’s life.Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give reasons to support your opinion.
Many people believe that it is very important to make large amount of money, while others are satisfied to earn a comfortable living. Analyze each viewpoint and take a stand. Give specific reasons for your position.
Advances in transportation and communication like the airplane and the telephone have changed the way that nations interact with each other in a global society. Choose another technological innovation that you think is important. Give reasons for your choice.
Many people have learned a foreign language in their own country; others have learned a foreign language in the country in which it is spoken. Which is better? Give the advantages of each and support your viewpoint.
You are planning to study abroad. What do you think you will like and dislike about this experience? Why? Use specific reasons and details to support your answer.

GRE

“Question authority. Only buy questioning accepted wisdom can we advance our understanding of the world. ”
“If rituals did not exist, we would have to invent them. We need ceremonies and rituals to help us define ourselves socially and culturally.”

Mar 7

Is it ok to memorise sample answers?

If you have memorised an answer it is very unlikely that it will actually answer the question directly and this will be another signal to the examiner that something isn’t quite right.

Coaching Centre | OET | IELTS | TOEFL | PTE | GRE | UKVI | Life Skills | Spoken English | in Vyttila, Kochi.

Posts tagged ‘UKVI’

Will, Shall:

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Have been:

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People who are interested in adding dark chocolate to their diet should keep in mind that it is high in fat and calories, so moderation is key.

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These are sample paragraphs taken from authorised PTE practise materials for referencing. Don’t limit your practise with these paragraphs. Have some interest and read a lot of other paragraphs that you may find in magazines, newspapers and wikipedia articles.

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This page contains the Issue topics for the Analytical Writing section of the GRE® revised General Test. When you take the test, you will be presented with one Argument topic from this pool.

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The following are the list of areas when you can cut chunks:

The following is a paragraph cut into chunks for you to understand the method easily.

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