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IELTS Writing Task 2: Most popular 50+ Essay Topics of 2023

Looking for 2022 latest IELTS essay topics? Here's a full list of recent 50+ IELTS writing task 2 questions & topics across various categories for your test prep.

7/1/2023 9 min read

discussion essay topics 2023

Introduction

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) writing section is a 1-hour test that comprises two questions: task 1 and task 2, which assess your vocabulary, grammar, word count, collocations, and ability to construct complex sentences with moderation and without repetition.

To begin, it is pivotal to understand that the IELTS essay topics vary for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Tasks. In Task 1 of IELTS Academic, you must write a report on a graph, diagram or chart, whereas, for IELTS General Training Task 1, you must write a letter. Task 2 of the General and Academic modules is essay writing; while the topics for essays in both modules may differ, the essay writing strategy remains the same.

Examiners use the following criteria to calculate Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 scores: Task Achievement, Task Response, Coherence, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Lexical Resource.

IELTS Writing Task 2 for Academic

The IELTS Academic Writing section consists of two tasks that must be completed in one hour:

Writing Task 1

In Task 1, you are assigned a graph, visual information, table or chart, which you are required to describe in your own words. You must write a report in 150 words, accurately describing what the information in the graph or picture represents. The IELTS writing task 1 marking criteria accounts for 33% of the total IELTS writing evaluation score, and you should try to finish this part in 20 minutes or less because IELTS writing task 2 is more difficult and will take at least 40 minutes to complete.

Writing Task 2

IELTS writing task 2 marking criteria has a 66% weightage, where you must complete a 250-word essay in 40 minutes. Candidates must respond to a problem, a point of view, or an argument in this task, with a curated response. The essay’s content should be written with perfect grammar and focused solely on the topic. As task 2 holds more weight, candidates should devote significant time to it and ensure a properly curated essay for a good band score. Let us now review some fundamentals of IELTS essay structure that you can apply to this task. A typical writing piece includes an introduction, the main body consisting of a few paragraphs, and a conclusion. In the introduction, you should write the context of your issue and a thesis statement representing the main idea of your text. The central section of your essay will discuss various facts and arguments that support or oppose the thesis statement. Finally, restate the thesis statement, bolstering it with new details from the main body. Here’s a list of the latest IELTS essay topics and sample questions to help you efficiently prepare for task 2 of the IELTS Writing section.

Latest IELTS Essay Topics for 2023

IELTS essay writing topics are usually based on current events and world affairs. You will find a series of essay writing topics for IELTS in the following listicles. Also, one of the most effective ways to prepare for answering essays in the Writing section of IELTS is to work on the sample essay questions. The topic categories and essay writing samples to help students looking for the latest IELTS essay topics are stated below:

Environment

Environmental Crisis: One of the most common topics in IELTS is the environment essay IELTS band 9. Many students, however, do not see the need to prepare for this because it is one of the most specific topics resulting in a loss of marks.

Global Warming: It is common for IELTS speaking and writing sections to include questions about broad discussion topics, such as climate change, the greenhouse effect, global warming, and deforestation.

Sustainable Energy: If you are unfamiliar with the framework and concepts of an essay, it can be a daunting task. All of the sentences must be related and formed in such a way that they provide a clear view and information. You may be penalised if you veer off-topic while writing your essay. Sustainable energy and nuclear power topics are debated topics; hence practising them will give you an edge over your peers.

Fossil Fuels: The IELTS essay topics for writing task 2 are usually based on common themes frequently discussed in the average aspirant’s daily life. One such theme is the use of renewable energy sources in place of nonrenewable resources such as fossil fuels.

Personality

Importance of First Impression: IELTS examiners have a short attention span and read hundreds of essays daily. Hence, it is pivotal for you to get the start right and make a good first impression in your First Impression is Important IELTS essay.

Hobbies: ‘Hobbies’ is a common theme in both the IELTS Writing Task 2 and the Speaking section. This is a simple, mark-fetching topic with few challenges for students taking the exam.

Fashion: Fashion is a recurring topic with global themes and one of the best topics to practise your public speaking skills.

Importance of Leisure Activities and School Values: The IELTS Essay on Education is one of the most challenging tasks, with unpredictable questions in the exam. These education essay topics, like the Importance of leisure activities, are opinion-driven and assess students’ ability to express their knowledge and skills thoughtfully.

Government and Society: As an IELTS exam candidate, you should review as many common topics for Writing Task 2 as possible. One such common IELTS test theme is government and society, with which you should be well-acquainted.

Ideal Society: Candidates should practise sample questions and answers for the Ideal Society IELTS essay to gain a firm grasp on writing and vocabulary and improve their overall band score.

Social Media: Social media essays are a popular topic in IELTS writing task 2. For a social media IELTS essay band 9 and similar topics, the most straightforward approach is maintaining the proper word count and being aware of various approaches to the topic.

Business & Global Consumerism

International Trade: Over the years, one of the topics covered in the IELTS exam has been global business. Your answer for such topics should contain everything; your responses, solutions, arguments, reasons, opinions, and evidence are critical to answering the question.

Management and Leadership: In any organisation, leadership and management are critical roles. Your essay for such topics should always be pertinent to the question.

Foreign Languages: Foreign languages and language barriers are recurring themes in the IELTS writing task 2. Express your own opinions on such topics.

Sports and children: Sport is a recurring theme, and the essay content should not deviate from the main points at any point in the essay.

Covid impact: The topics of IELTS Writing task 2 are usually drawn from current events worldwide, making Covid-19 an anticipated topic.

Obesity: Overweight essays are among the most common topics in IELTS writing task 2. Obesity, recent trends in health among children and adults, and other similar topics may also be discussed in relation to overweight.

Types of IELTS Essays

IELTS essay writing topics are usually classified under various sections. You can expect essays in the IELTS exam from any of the following types:

Opinion Essays

In this essay category, you must discuss your opinion on the given topic. Naturally, the best way to score high in such essays is to have prior knowledge of common topics that are popular in the IELTS exam.

Sample Questions:

Most teenagers today own a smartphone. Provide your opinion to discuss the advantages and disadvantages.

Crime novels and TV series have become quite popular in recent years. What is your opinion about these crime dramas?

Developing nations often require international assistance. Many believe that this assistance should be monetary, while some think practical help and advice would be more beneficial. Discuss both these views along with your opinion.

Many consider automobiles to be the biggest source of pollution in urban areas, while some believe industries are responsible for it. Explain both views and provide your opinion.

Many people believe individuals involved with creative arts should be financially supported by the government. Some others believe they should find separate resources. Discuss each of the views and give your opinion.

Some believe success in life comes from hard work, dedication, and motivation. While many believe success depends on other important factors like money and appearance. Discuss both views and provide your opinion.

Many think that governments should fund programs in search of life on other planets. However, others believe governments should focus on unresolved issues on the planet. Provide your opinion and discuss both views.

Discussion Essays

In the case of discussion essays, the candidates need to put forward an explanation for or against any given topic. Such essays are the most common to appear in the IELTS exam.

Many believe living in big cities comes with more advantages than residing in the countryside. Do you agree or disagree with this?

The shopping habits of people depend more on their age group than on any other factors. Do you agree or disagree with this?

More and more children and minors are becoming overweight in developed nations. This is a major problem for most wealthy countries. Explain the causes and impacts of this issue.

The internet is a great invention that brings a host of advantages for the world population. However, there are several issues in terms of security and control of personal data. Do you agree or disagree with this?

Advertising prevents originality in people and makes them look the same and do the same. Do you agree or disagree with this?

Parents today often tend to organise extra classes on weekends or even after school. Do you believe this is at all useful? Or do you think the education provided in school is sufficient?

Some people believe that capital punishment should be done away with. Do you agree or disagree with this?

Solution Essays

For solution essays, you will have to provide a solution to a particular issue. At times, questions might be provided as to why a specific issue has occurred, and candidates have to provide their opinion on the answer.

The massive movement of people from agricultural areas to cities in search of employment can lead to serious problems in both places. What are the problems, and how can these be solved?

Advantage or Disadvantage Essays

In this type of essay, students have to write about a particular topic’s positive and negative sides. Such essays test your argument construction skills and how well you can use English to communicate your views as clearly and coherently as possible.

International tourism has greatly benefited many places. However, there have been major concerns about its impact on the local environment and inhabitants. Do the negative impacts of international tourism outweigh the benefits?

Some countries have recently passed laws to restrict the daily working hours of employees. Explain whether this will have a positive or negative impact.

More and more people today are visiting extreme places such as Antarctica or the Sahara desert. What are the advantages or disadvantages of such travels?

Social media is gradually replacing in-person face-to-face contact with many people worldwide. Do the benefits of social media outweigh the disadvantages?

Direct Question Essays

For this type of essay, the topics will be provided as direct questions, which students have to answer based on their experiences and thoughts.

Shopping used to be a routine domestic task in the past. However, today, it has become more of a hobby. Is this a positive trend?

You can get more information on these rare essay-type questions on our Direct question essay structure blog.

Preparation Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Many students believe they don’t need to prepare much because they speak English reasonably well. Well, the IELTS exam is not that easy. In fact, even native English speakers may find the test difficult. As a result, candidates should prepare for this section rigorously and methodically and start early preparation.

Begin your IELTS preparations at least 6 months before your intended test date, and ensure to devote some time daily to all 4 sections.

Choose writing topics for both tasks, especially writing task 2, and try to write about them daily. Time yourself; remember that you must complete both tasks in one hour.

Spend significant time learning new vocabulary and brushing up on your grammatical skills. Following that is structured thinking, allowing you to convey your ideas logically. While writing, pay close attention to lucidity, logic, and clarity.

You should expand your ideas because the IELTS writing task 2 could cover any topic. Go through all the resources like magazines, books, and online materials to expand your knowledge and vocabulary. Additionally, practice as many mock tests as possible.

As mentioned above it’s only practice that can get you the desire scores. But along with it you also need the best preparation materials and guidance. Along with live classes from the best IELTS tutors, you’ll also have access to mock tests, speaking and writing evaluations and comprehensive study materials. As a reward you’ll also receive a course completion certificate.

How to Answer Task 2 Essays in IELTS Writing Section?

Students can employ the following steps to successfully enhance their ability to answer essays in the Writing section:

Step 1: Read and Understand the Question

The first step to nailing task 2 essays is to read and understand the question carefully. Most of the time, candidates answer the question without understanding what it demands. Candidates should carefully analyse the question, identify the question type and try to identify the keywords. Finally, they should clearly understand the instructions and then attempt to answer.

Step 2: Plan the Answer

Once students have understood the question, they need to plan the structure of the answer. This will allow candidates to organise their ideas and produce a clear and coherent response.

Step 3: Write a Solid Introduction

The introduction of the essay should give an idea of what the essay is all about. Make sure to write an appropriate introduction conveying the gist of the essay.

Step 4: Carefully Curate the Main Body

The main body is the essential part of the essay, where you must provide the necessary details. State your points accordingly and substantiate them with explanations, examples, and other relevant data. Once done, you need to give a proper conclusion.

Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Although IELTS is a difficult test to master, one can achieve a good score with systematic and consistent preparation. If you require assistance in acing your IELTS Writing Task 1 and 2, our Leap Scholar experts will provide the necessary guidance, tips, and tricks to help you pass your IELTS test with flying colours. If you are planning to prepare for the essay task in the Writing section, you can go through this comprehensive guide to get an idea about the latest IELTS essay topics. You can prepare for the essay task accordingly with the help of sample essay topics and questions provided in the above sections.

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Most Common IELTS Essay Topics: 100+ Essay Topics, Types of Questions, and Preparation Tips

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  • Updated on  
  • Jan 11, 2024

Most Common IELTS Essay Topics: 50+ Essay Topics, Types of Questions, and Preparation Tips

Whether you are pondering about how to study abroad or are planning to settle there, as a part of your visa and university requirements, you have to sit for certain English proficiency tests like the IELTS. International English Language Proficiency Testing System (IELTS) is one of the most renowned English proficiency tests that has to be taken by students belonging to countries where English is not an official language. This is one of the conditions for attaining overseas education.

There are two variants of the test; IELTS General Training and Academic and depending on your purpose of visit, you can choose the variant. IELTS evaluates candidates on 4 basic parameters namely, Reading, Speaking, Listening and Writing. Out of all the four sections, writing is considered to be the trickiest one wherein lengthy essay questions can baffle you. So, if you are also looking for the answer to “What kind of essays are asked in IELTS?” then don’t worry. Here is a blog on IELTS essay topics for all aspirants who are preparing for the IELTS 2023 examination. 

This Blog Includes:

Ielts essay topics on culture and tradition, ielts essay topics on environment, topics on media , ielts essay topics related to education, topics on society, ielts essay topics related to food and eating habits , topics on communication and personality , ielts essay topics related to crime and punishment , other questions, opinion essays, discussion essays, solution essays, advantage or disadvantage essays, direct question essays, how to answer task 2 essays in ielts writing section, tips for ielts writing task 2.

  • Some claim that when cultural practices are utilized as tourist attractions intended to generate revenue, they are destroyed. Some claim that this is the only way to keep certain customs alive.
  • Just like the government spends funds on music and theatre, it does the same on arts too which is considered a waste of money. Don’t you think that the government should spend more on revamping public services? Do you agree? If not, then why?
  • Many monuments, which are a part of our cultural diversity are protected and reconstructed by law. A few people think these structures should be destroyed and something new should be constructed. How important is it to put more effort into monument maintenance? Do you think that through their maintenance, history is coming in the way of progress?
  • A single-world culture is being created due to modern technology. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Some people believe raising the price of fuel is the greatest way to address global environmental issues. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Many animal species are becoming endangered as a result of habitat loss brought on by urbanisation, illicit hunting, and deforestation; some are even at risk of going extinct. Do you think it is necessary to protect animals?
  • According to you, what are the major problems due to which developed countries have become the major contributors to global warming? What are the main problems leading to global warming?
  • One of the most critical issues that the environment is facing is global warming. What are the measures the government can take to reduce such issues?
  • Overpopulation in the country is a serious issue that has given rise to numerous problems. Elaborate on one or two serious issues and give a plausible solution for them that governments can implement.
  • Some people think that the government should strictly control the supply of fresh water, as it is a limited resource, while others it should not be regulated.
  • Fossil fuels are the main source of energy around the world today. In some countries, the use of alternative sources of energy is replacing fossil fuels.

12. Media violence encourages violence in society. To what extent do you agree?

13. Most of the news that is reported is terrible news, such as stories about wars, famines, accidents, and crime. How come, in your opinion? Do you believe there should be both good and negative news?

14. Do you believe that celebrities are ill-treated by the media or it is the price they have to pay for their stardom? Regardless of fame, their privacy should be respected or not?

15. Media has unintentionally left a negative impact on children. Often, they end up watching violence which is not advised at such a tender age. Do you agree or disagree with this?

16. What are your views on the false means of advertising used by media agencies?

17. What is the impact of computer games on the children of today? Is it helping their development or making them worse? Why and why not? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

18. Successful sportsmen can earn a great deal more than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

19. Some people believe that advertising has a strong effect on a person’s decision-making process. Others feel that it has little or no real impact. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

20. Does advertising encourage us to buy things we don’t need or does it tell us about new products that may improve our lives. Which view do you agree with?

21. In many countries today, crime novels and TV crime dramas are becoming more and more popular .

22. Much worry is being expressed about the educational divide between affluent and poorer nations. What options do you have for handling this situation.

23. The role of education is to educate children for the modern world. Schools should remove music and the arts from the curriculum so that students can concentrate on practical courses like computer technology. How much do you agree?

24. Education is a fundamental right. Thus, it should be free of cost for everyone regardless of personal wealth. Do you agree or disagree with it?

25. While few people believe that the education provided by universities helps graduates get better jobs. Others think that there are many wider advantages of education through universities. Elucidate upon these views and give your opinion. 

26. Do you align with the thought that educational activities must be incorporated into children’s free time? What do you think about this argument?

27. Co-ed schools are considered better than boys and girls being educated separately. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

28. Some people believe that the traditional approach in the modern classroom is better than a teaching methodology based on experiential learning. Do you agree or disagree?

29. University students should pay the full cost for their own study because a university education benefits individuals rather than society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

30. Is teaching people over 65 to use computers the best way to spend government money? To what extent do you agree?

31. Nowadays, not enough students choose science subjects at university in many countries. Why is this? What effects does this have on society?

32. Some feel that movies and TV shows are a good way to study history despite their lack of historical accuracy at times. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

33. The most important aim of science ought to be to improve people’s lives.

34. Government money should be used to support children in school for sports rather than to support professional sports and arts that perform for the general public.

35. Homeless individuals are a part of most societies. Some individuals believe that giving them money is the greatest way to assist them. What percentage would you agree with?

36. It is observed in many countries that women do not feel the need to get married. Locals believe that women have started earning and have become independent as they have their own source of income, thus, they do not require the financial security that marriage brings. Up to what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

36. It is always believed that globalization has both advantages as well as disadvantages. State prominent advantages as well as disadvantages in your opinion.

37. Traditional ways of living are being lost as modern civilization develops. Is it crucial to maintain our old ways of living?

38. Over the last decade, it was majorly seen that people were eager to move from rural areas toward urban areas. What do you think has caused this? What problems can this bring up?

39. Every culture around us has made its mark in history in one or the other way. Why do you think it is important to familiarise the next generation with history?

40. Some people spend more and some spend less for wedding parties, birthday parties, and other celebrations. Is it a waste of money or a social requirement? Include specific details and examples to support your choice.

41. Some people believe that in the near future, there will be no borders between countries, while others feel that national borders will always remain. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

42. 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 views and give your own opinion.

43. People who have original ideas provide much greater value to society than the ones who copy others. Do you agree or disagree?

44. Is it good for childrens that parents provide them with everything they ask for?

45. Advancements in technology have made it possible for many people to work from home nowadays? What do you think are the effects on employees working from home?

46. Some people think that social networking sites have a huge negative impact on both individuals and society. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

47. The best way to reduce poverty in developing countries is by giving up to six years of free education so that they can at least read, write and use numbers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

48. Some argue that patriotism is the primary cause of wars globally. Others feel that it serves to prevent less ethical politicians from running a country and starting wars.

49. Many think that religion should be taught in schools while others think it should be avoided

50. Some feel that cities should be designed to be beautiful while others feel their functionality is more important. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion

51. Preservatives and chemicals are present in many prepared meals and processed foods. What benefits can this have? Do you believe the benefits outweigh the drawbacks?

52. Many children around us are obese and overweight. What according to you has led to this common problem amongst children? What measures can be taken to resolve this? 

53. To cope with the pace of the fast-moving world, many of us have now started to replace main meals with fast food. What according to you are the advantages of this step that have to outweigh the disadvantages? 

54. Over the past few years, the media has portrayed the image of a young woman as a thin lady. What according to you are the problems caused by this conception? 

55. Due to the severe repercussions of eating fast food on a daily basis, some people think that the only way to prevent this is to ban fast food. Do you agree or disagree with the statement?

56. In many countries, fast food is becoming cheaper and more widely available. Do the disadvantages of this outweigh the advantages?

57. People often argue that eating junk food has led to an unhealthy lifestyle. This problem has become more common among young people these days. Do you agree or disagree that junk food is the cause of the issue? 

58. Governments in many countries have recently introduced special taxes on foods and beverages with high levels of sugar. Some think these taxes are a good idea while others disagree. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

59. Today’s society provides people with various ways to lose weight, such as special diets or exercise regimes. Many people believe though that poor food and today’s lifestyle should be addressed first. What is your opinion?

60. In many countries today, the eating habits and lifestyles of children are different from those of previous generations. Some people say this has had a negative effect on their health in many countries today, the eating habits and lifestyles of children are different from those of previous generations. Some people say this has had a negative effect on their health. What is your opinion?

61. Nowadays, an increasing number of people with health problems are using alternative medicines and treatments instead of visiting their normal doctor.

62. Individuals and businesses alike are choosing to communicate professionally or socially via technology rather than in person. Talk about the benefits and drawbacks of using technology for communication.

63. Some people fail in school but end up being successful in life. What do you think is important in life- performing well in school or being successful after school? 

64. With the advent of the internet, texting has become the modern way of communicating due to which face-to-face communication will become a thing of the past. To what extent do you agree? 

65. With the help of the internet, many people have now started to communicate with others online comfortably rather than confronting them face to face. According to you, what are the advantages as well as disadvantages of communicating online? 

66. Due to frequent slang or short forms used in the modern way of texting, people have started believing that this is the death of grammar and spelling. Discuss both sides of the argument.

67. New-age Celebrities from Instagram and TikTok are more famous for their glamorous lifestyle than their achievements. Does this affect the children who follow them? State your opinion.

68. Some people prefer to keep their private life separate from their work while others spend their leisure time with their colleagues. Discuss both views and give your opinion

69. Has modern technology made it easier to download copyrighted music and books?

70. Some children spend hours every day on smartphones. Why is this the case? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

71. It is important for people to take risks, in both their professional lives and personal lives.

72. The best way to make the road transport of goods safer is to ask drivers to take a driving test each year.

73. Fewer young people play sports these days.

74. Some nations are having trouble keeping up with rising crime rates. Many individuals believe that the best solution to decrease crime is to have more police officers on the streets. How much do you concur?

75. People believe that certain criminals should be made to do community service instead of putting them behind bars. Up to what extent do you agree? 

76. To what extent do you think that technology has played a role in decreasing the crime rate? 

77. In some societies, the crime rate committed by teenagers is increasing. Thus, the people believe that they should receive punishments like adults. According to you what are the disadvantages of it?

78. Do you agree or disagree that having more police on the streets will decrease the overall crime rate of a country?

79. Studies show that most young children who commit crimes have been abused in some way by their parents.

80. Many studies show that poor people are more likely to be involved in petty and serious crimes than people who come from higher-income groups. Do you agree?

81. What is the importance of stable family structures in preventing crime in a country? State your opinion.

82. Are strict punishments for driving offences the key to reducing traffic accidents or are other ways necessary? Give your opinion.

83. Prison is the common way most countries try to solve the problem of crime. However, a more effective solution is to provide the public with a better education.

Apart from these category-wise questions, here are some other general IELTS essay topics:

84. Some people believe that one of the most beneficial inventions like mobile phones has somehow disrupted our social lives. What is your view on this statement?

85. Being a young mind, do you agree that people should take advice from elders rather than from the younger ones? Support your answer with valuable points 

86. The increasing dependency of people on their mobile phones is a positive or negative development in society? 

87. Some people think that wearing a uniform at work is essential whereas others think that it is unnecessary. Present your views on both sides of the argument.

88. Have you ever lived away from your parents? Describe your living situation and explain its advantages and disadvantages. Include specific details and examples to support your choice.

90. Some people prefer to work in the same type of job throughout their lifetime while others like to change the type of job they do. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

91. Some people think that illegal Internet downloads are having a negative effect on the music industry. Others feel that they have little or no impact on artists. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

92. People who read for pleasure in their free time have a better imagination than those who prefer to watch TV. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

93. Children often complain that history lessons are boring because they are about a past that is dead. How can schools bring history alive for pupils?

94. People are waiting until their thirties to get married and have children these days. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

95. Some people say a car is the best way to travel through a city while others support travelling with bicycles. Discuss both sides and share your opinion.

96. Would you prefer working for a large company or a small one? Explain with specific reasons and examples.

97. Free public transport 24×7 is the best way for governments to solve the problem of traffic congestion. Do you agree or disagree?

98. Music has been and will continue to be the universal language of mankind. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

99. Online currencies have become more common in recent years. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?

100. Some people feel that cities should allow for spaces for graffiti while others feel it should be banned. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

101. Always telling the truth is the most important consideration in any relationship between people. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

102. A rise in the standard of living in a country often only seems to benefit cities rather than rural areas.

103. Around the world, rural people are moving to cities and urban areas, so populations in the countryside are decreasing.

Types of IELTS Essays

IELTS essay themes are typically divided into a number of categories. The following sorts of essays are common in the IELTS exam :

You must express your thoughts on the suggested subject in this essay genre. Naturally, having prior knowledge of common subjects that are frequently included in the IELTS exam is the ideal method to achieve high marks in such essays.

Sample Questions:

  • Most teenagers today own a smartphone. Provide your opinion to discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
  • Crime novels and TV series have become quite popular in recent years. What is your opinion about these crime dramas?
  • Developing nations often require international assistance. Many believe that this assistance should be monetary, while some think practical help and advice would be more beneficial. Discuss both these views along with your opinion.
  • Many consider automobiles to be the biggest source of pollution in urban areas, while some believe industries are responsible for it. Explain both views and provide your opinion.
  • Many people believe individuals involved with creative arts should be financially supported by the government. Some others believe they should find separate resources. Discuss each of the views and give your opinion.
  • Some believe success in life comes from hard work, dedication, and motivation. While many believe success depends on other important factors like money and appearance. Discuss both views and provide your opinion. 
  • Many think that governments should fund programs in search of life on other planets. However, others believe governments should focus on unresolved issues on the planet. Provide your opinion and discuss both views.

In the case of discussion essays, the candidates need to put forward an explanation for or against any given topic. Such essays are the most common to appear in the IELTS exam. 

Sample Questions: 

  • Many believe living in big cities comes with more advantages than residing in the countryside. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • The shopping habits of people depend more on their age group than on any other factors. Do you agree or disagree with this? 
  • More and more children and minors are becoming overweight in developed nations. This is a major problem for most wealthy countries. Explain the causes and impacts of this issue.
  • The internet is a great invention that brings a host of advantages to the world population. However, there are several issues in terms of security and control of personal data. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • Advertising prevents originality in people and makes them look the same and do the same. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • Parents today often tend to organise extra classes on weekends or even after school. Do you believe this is at all useful? Or, do you think the education provided in school is sufficient?
  • Some people believe that capital punishment should be done away with. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • Countries spend a lot of money on training individuals for sports competitions while some people believe that the money could be better spent on ordinary citizens. Do you agree or disagree?

For solution essays, you will have to provide a solution to a particular issue. At times, questions might be provided as to why a specific issue has occurred, and candidates have to provide their opinion on the answer.

  • The massive movement of people from agricultural areas to cities in search of employment can lead to serious problems in both places. What are the problems, and how can these be solved? 

In this type of essay, students have to write about a particular topic’s positive and negative sides. Such essays test your argument construction skills and how well you can use English to communicate your views as clearly and coherently as possible. 

  • International tourism has greatly benefited many places. However, there have been major concerns about its impact on the local environment and inhabitants. Do the negative impacts of international tourism outweigh the benefits?
  • Some countries have recently passed laws to restrict the daily working hours of employees. Explain whether this will have a positive or negative impact.
  • More and more people today are visiting extreme places such as Antarctica or the Sahara desert. What are the advantages or disadvantages of such travels?
  • Social media is gradually replacing in-person face-to-face contact with many people worldwide. Do the benefits of social media outweigh the disadvantages? 
  • Some countries allow old people to work at any age they want. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?
  • New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

For this type of essay, the topics will be provided as direct questions, which students have to answer based on their experiences and thoughts.

  • Shopping used to be a routine domestic task in the past. However, today, it has become more of a hobby. Is this a positive trend?

The strategies listed below can help students improve their capacity for answering essays in the Writing portion.

  • Read and comprehend the question : Reading and comprehending the question thoroughly is the first step to writing task 2 essays with ease. Candidates typically respond to questions without fully understanding what is being asked of them. Candidates should thoroughly examine the question, determine the question’s type, and make an effort to determine its keywords. Finally, they should ensure that they fully comprehend the directions before attempting to respond. Candidates should thoroughly examine the question, determine the question’s type, and make an effort to determine its keywords. Finally, they should ensure that they fully comprehend the directions before attempting to respond.
  • Plan the solution : Students must plan the format of their responses after fully comprehending the question. Candidates will be able to organise their thoughts and present a concise and well-rounded response as a result.
  • Writing a Strong Introduction : An overview of the essay’s topic should be provided in the introduction. Make sure to draft a good start that summarises the article.
  • Carefully curate the main body : The essay’s main body is where you must present all of the important information. Make your points in accordance with this and support them with justifications, examples, and other pertinent information. Once finished, you must provide a suitable summary.

The following advice can help candidates ace the IELTS Writing test:

  • Be sure to go outside the box for solutions.
  • There are two questions in the 60-minute Writing segment of the test. In order to easily respond to both questions within the allotted time, one should practise time management skills.
  • Make as many connections as you can between the given topic and reality and current events.
  • Avoid writing in a single paragraph at all costs. Where necessary, try to divide the divisions, and learn to connect each paragraph.

Thus, we hope that this blog on IELTS essay topics has now brought some clarity on what type of questions can be asked of you during the exam.

The scoring range of IELTS writing is 0-9. 

Individuals must avoid under-developing their ideas, keeping both sides of the argument incomplete, not linking the problems and solutions and lastly  being ambiguous. 

The IELTS Problem-Solution Essay can be segregated into an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. 

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IELTS Discussion Essays [Discuss Both Views/Sides]

Posted by David S. Wills | Jun 14, 2021 | IELTS Tips , Writing | 3

IELTS Discussion Essays [Discuss Both Views/Sides]

In this lesson, I’m going to explain what an IELTS discussion essay is and how you can write a good one. I will talk about structure and content, as well as looking briefly at discussion essay thesis statements, which many people find tricky. I’ve also written a sample essay, which you can find at the bottom of this page.

What is a Discussion Essay?

As the name suggests, a discussion essay is an essay that discusses things! More specifically, it is a type of IELTS writing task 2 essay that requires you to look at two different points of view . You can easily recognise these essays by the following phrase:

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sometimes it is phrased a little differently. It might say:

Discuss both sides and give your opinion
Discuss both points view and give your opinion

The important thing is that these all mean the same. When you see any of these, you know that you need to write a discussion essay. Importantly, this instruction tells you that you need to do two things:

  • Discuss both views (there will have been 2 views mentioned in the previous sentence(s))
  • Give your opinion (i.e. state which view you agree with)

If you failed to do either of these things, you would not have satisfied the basic criteria for Task Achievement .

Example Discussion Essay Questions

Here is a list of 5 discussion essay questions either from the IELTS exam, reportedly from the IELTS exam, or from reputable publications that have copied the IELTS question style. (Not that you absolutely should avoid fake IELTS questions when practising.)

Some people say that parents should encourage their children to take part in organised group activities in their free time. Others say that is important for children to learn how to occupy themselves on their own. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Others, however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people feel that manufacturers and supermarkets have the responsibility to reduce the amount of packaging of goods. Others argue that customers should avoid buying goods with a lot of packaging. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people believe that higher education should be funded by the government. Others, however, argue that it is the responsibility of individuals to fund their higher education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Some people believe that it is important for children to attend extra classes outside school, while others believe that they should be allowed to play after school. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

You can see in these questions that there is a similar pattern. In each case, the question phrase (“Discuss both views and give your own opinion”) is the same and in the previous sentence or sentences, there are two opposing views. This, then, makes “discuss both views” questions a sort of opinion essay .

How to Answer IELTS Discussion Questions

First of all, it is important when answering any IELTS task 2 question that you read the question carefully so that you understand it, then provide an answer that directly responds to the question, following its instructions carefully.

As discussed above, you are required to do two things: 1) Discuss both views, and 2) Give your own opinion. You absolutely must do both of those. It doesn’t really matter what your opinion is or whether you give equal weighting to both sides of the argument. Instead, you must cover both sides and also give some sort of opinion. (It is important, though, according to the marking rubric , that you are consistent in your opinion.)

Your answer of course should be structured carefully so as to present your ideas in a thoroughly logical way that is easy for your reader to interpret. I almost always use a four-paragraph structure in my essays, but some people prefer to use five paragraphs in this sort of essay. The difference would look like this:

You might be wondering why I have given my opinion in the body of the five-paragraph essay but not in the four-paragraph essay. Well, actually I would give my opinion in the body of both. However, my opinion would be more subtly woven into the text of the four-paragraph essay. I personally find this to be a better method, but it is equally possible that you could write an amazing five-paragraph essay. That issue is discussed further in this video:

Discussion Essay Thesis Statement

In academic writing, a thesis statement (sometimes called an essay outline ) is the part of the essay where you insert your opinion. It typically comes at the end of the introduction and guides the reader by explaining your opinion on the issues that have been introduced.

But do you really need to provide one in such a short essay? Well, a 2018 study into successful IELTS essays concluded that thesis statements were “obligatory” – i.e. you absolutely do need one. In fact, that study found that thesis statements appeared in 100% of successful IELTS discussion essays! Therefore, we can conclude they are very important.

Because a discussion essay will tell you to “Discuss both views and give your opinion,” you must introduce the two views and then give your opinion in the introduction. Here is an example:

Introductory paragraph:

In some parts of the world, children are forced to go to cram schools and other facilities of extracurricular learning, but many people believe that this is unfair and that they should be allowed to enjoy their free time instead. This essay will look at both perspectives and then conclude that it is indeed unfair.

My first sentence clearly introduces two different ideas:

  • Children should do extra classes
  • Children should not do extra classes

Note how I have successfully used synonyms to avoid repeating anything from the question. I have also framed the issue in a new way so that I am not just paraphrasing. (You can learn why paraphrasing is not always helpful here .)

My second sentence is the thesis statement. In this sentence, I outline what the essay will do (“look at both perspectives”) and then give my opinion (“it is unfair”). This is a simple but effective thesis statement.

Thesis Statement Advice

Your IELTS discussion essay thesis statement should do two things:

  • Tell the reader what the essay will do
  • Present your opinion

Because this is a formal essay, it is best not to be too personal. Instead of saying “I will…” or “I think…” it is better to say “This essay will…” Here are some simple templates that you can follow most of the time:

  • This essay will look at both sides and then argue that…
  • This essay will discuss both views but ultimately side with…

Just make sure to avoid being overly vague. You are required to give your opinion consistently throughout the essay, so don’t say “This essay will look at both sides and then give my opinion .” It is not really the best approach because the examiner wants to see that you can be consistent in presenting an opinion. That is clearly stated in the marking rubric. For band 7, it says:

  • presents a clear position throughout the response

It could be concluded, then, that your opinion is not clear from the start and so you have not done enough to warrant a band 7 for Task Achievement.

Body Paragraphs

As I mentioned above, there are really two main approaches you could take to the body paragraphs:

  • Discuss one view per paragraph and incorporate your opinion into each.
  • Discuss one view per paragraph and then have another for your opinion.

I suppose there is also a third option:

  • Compare and contrast the two viewpoints in each paragraph.

This last one may be a little harder to do successfully without jeopardising your score for Task Achievement or Coherence and Cohesion , but advanced candidates may find it useful.

Remember that there is no single perfect formula for an IELTS essay. That’s not how languages work and that’s not how IELTS works. Different people could come up with different ways to present a successful essay. The most common essay structures are mere guidelines for particularly useful methods of approaching an essay.

discussion essay topics 2023

Does a Discussion Essay Have to be Balanced?

Because the question says “Discuss both views,” it is quite logical to think that you must provide some degree of balance, but you certainly don’t need to give equal weighting to both sides. Remember that you are also going to give your opinion, so if you come down strongly on one side of the issue, it might be odd to give equal attention to both.

If you do feel very strongly about one side, you might want to present your discussion of the other side as quite negative. However, IELTS is a thinking exam as well as an English exam and an intelligent person can always look at both sides of an issue and explain – at the very least – why someone might believe a thing that is different to his own view. This seems quite important, but there is nothing explicitly mentioned in the marking rubric.

I would suggest that if you think a two-sided issue is basically one-sided (i.e. you strongly disagree with the other view), you should still write one or two sentences about why people believe that and then devote the rest of your essay to disputing their view.

Another approach is to write BP1 as a very short paragraph that explains why people might think one thing, but then have BP2 as a very long paragraph that debunks the opposing view and then explains why the other is correct.

(You can read more about IELTS essays and balance here .)

Sample Answer

Here is my full sample answer to the above question about whether or not children should be made to do extracurricular activities:

In some parts of the world, children are forced to go to cram schools and other facilities of extracurricular learning, but many people believe that this is unfair and that they should be allowed to enjoy their free time instead. This essay will look at both perspectives and then conclude that it is indeed unfair. In countries like South Korea, most children are made to go to an array of cram schools outside of regular school hours. Their parents do this in order to give their child a better future because it helps the child to learn more and thus gives them the academic advantages needed to apply to the best universities or jobs in future. These schools often provide children with an advantage over their peers because they improve their foreign language or math skills more quickly, and thus the children who do not attend these schools might have comparatively poor grades. However, whilst this attitude may result in better academic performance, it is certainly not good for the mental health of these children. It is no coincidence that places like South Korea have the highest rates of suicide among their young populations. The fact is that children are not equipped to spend fourteen or sixteen hours per day in classrooms, memorising facts and figures. In a sense, it is a form of child abuse. Children should be allowed to go home and spend time with friends and family to build social skills. They should be allowed to occupy themselves in order to become more creative and learn how to understand their own mind instead of being trained to repeat what they are told. In conclusion, it is understandable that some parents want their children to go to extra classes, but this is damaging to children and they should be given the freedom to play and socialise outside of regular school hours.

In BP1, I have looked at the topic of cram schools (ie the side of the argument in favour of extra lessons). I explored why parents might want their kids to do this and show the supposed benefits. Note that I never embraced any of these benefits. I was careful to use language that distanced these ideas from my own opinion, which was the opposite, so I said “Their parents do this in order to…”

In BP2, I looked at the opposite side. I was careful to make sure that my first sentence linked to the previous paragraph, highlighting that the benefits are quite minor compared to the drawbacks. All of my sentences here justify my position, which is that it is cruel to force these extra lessons on children.

My conclusion ties all of this together. The first clause references BP1 and the second summarises the main argument in BP2.

You can find two more sample essays here:

  • A discussion essay about sports facilities
  • A discussion essay about sports abilities

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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DIRWAN

It is sometimes debatable whether asking children to get extra education after school or letting them play that is actually beneficial for them. Even though both viewpoints have benefits and drawbacks but I believe ,in the childhood age, children have to take rough and discipline education after school to be succeed in the future.

To begin with, many educational experts believe that playing is one of the essential aspects that have to be gotten by children to grow and happy. By using the playing approach, children can have a good mental and psychic health. Besides, letting children play after school can also support them to increase their emotional stimuli and get a positive social interaction. With this way, experts believe children can grow as a better adult in the future and have a freedom to get a better life in the upcoming times.

However, I completely contra with the first idea because I believe childhood is a better time to train children about academic or other skills that benefits them in the future. Based on scientific journal that I read, the ability of children in learning new things are more spectacular compared to adults. A lot of artists, scientist, and even football player who currently becoming a superstar in this era is a string of process that is began since their in the childhood. For instance, nowadays, I am working in the field of election supervision, it because since in my childhood my father love to force me learning about social and political issues by getting additional class. Thus, making children to get extra class after school is an appropriate preference if parents desire to see their son getting a good future.

To conclude, based on experts children have to get a freedom to play after schools but in my viewpoint it will be more advantages if they utilize the playing time with joining additional class after school.

tufail khan

VERY GOOD MR DIRWAN But actually you mixed both of the ideas , you need to take one side for this sort of essay writting, as it is mentioned in the above instruction. By the way WELL DONE . love from Pakistan to my sweet brother.

Daisey Lachut

I have not checked in here for some time because I thought it was getting boring, but the last few posts are really great quality so I guess I’ll add you back to my everyday bloglist. You deserve it my friend. ??

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100+ IELTS ESSAY TOPICS TO HONE YOUR WRITING SKILLS

100+ IELTS Essay Topics to Hone Your Writing Skills

Introduction

Ielts essay topics on culture and tradition, ielts essay topics on environment, topics on media, ielts essay topics related to education:, ielts essay topics on society, ielts essay topics related to food and eating habits, ielts essay topics on communication and personality, ielts essay topics related to crime and punishment, other ielts essay questions you should not miss, sample ielts essay question:, model answer:, types of ielts essays, how to answer ielts part 2 writing section essay, 8 simple tips for ielts writing task 2 essay questions:, faqs (frequently asked questions) on ielts essay questions.

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) is a well-known English test, especially for people who don't speak English as their first language and want to study or work in an English-speaking country. One of the most important parts of the IELTS test is the Writing section, in which candidates have to write essays on different themes. We've put together a long list of more than 200 IELTS essay ideas that cover a wide range of IELTS writing task 2 topics to help you get ready for this part. Let's look at these topics, which have been put into groups for your ease.

  • The preservation of cultural traditions holds significance for individuals amidst the rapid transformations occurring in the contemporary world.
  • What is the impact of commercialization on the authenticity of cultural practices?
  • Is it your belief that the utilization of cultural practices as tourist attractions to generate revenue ultimately leads to their destruction?
  • There exists a viewpoint positing that the preservation of specific customs can solely be achieved through their utilization for economic purposes. What is your stance on this perspective?
  • To what degree should governments allocate resources towards the conservation and safeguarding of cultural heritage?
  • Should governments allocate a greater portion of their budget towards the improvement of public services as opposed to directing funds towards the preservation of cultural heritage? Please elucidate your position.
  • Numerous monuments, integral to our cultural diversity, are safeguarded and restored through legal measures. Do you believe that the demolition of these structures and subsequent construction of new ones is warranted?
  • To what extent does the allocation of additional resources toward the maintenance of monuments yield significant benefits? Is it your opinion that the preservation and study of history is impeding societal advancement?
  • Do you concur or dissent with the notion that contemporary technology is fostering the emergence of a global monoculture?
  • To what extent does technology contribute to the preservation or erosion of cultural diversity?

[Read More:  A Complete Guide to Crack IELTS Writing Task 2 ]

  • The question at hand pertains to the significance of cultural diversity in human society, and whether a singular global culture would yield greater advantages.
  • What strategies can individuals and communities employ to ensure the transmission of their cultural traditions to succeeding generations?
  • The impact of cultural traditions on an individual's identity and values is a subject of inquiry.
  • Is it possible for cultural practices to become obsolete and lose relevance in contemporary society? Please provide specific examples to substantiate your response.
  • Is it feasible for individuals to wholeheartedly adopt the customs and traditions of a culture that is distinct from their own? What potential challenges could they encounter?
  • There is a belief held by certain individuals that increasing the cost of fuel represents the most effective approach to tackling global environmental concerns. What is your stance on the matter?
  • Numerous animal species are currently facing the threat of endangerment as a result of factors such as habitat loss, illegal hunting, and deforestation. Is it deemed imperative to safeguard animals?
  • In your perspective, what are the primary challenges that have led developed nations to emerge as significant contributors to the phenomenon of global warming?
  • What are the potential strategies that governmental entities can employ to mitigate the effects of global warming?
  • The issue of overpopulation in the country has emerged as a significant concern, leading to the manifestation of various consequential challenges. Please provide a more specific prompt or topic for me to elaborate on, such as a particular serious issue or a specific context.
  • The question at hand pertains to whether the government should implement stringent regulations on the distribution of fresh water, given its finite nature, or if it should refrain from such regulatory measures.
  • Fossil fuels currently serve as the primary global energy source. The utilization of alternative sources of energy is progressively supplanting the reliance on fossil fuels in certain nations.
  • Is there a shared responsibility between individuals, governments, and large corporations in addressing environmental problems, or is the burden solely placed on governments and large corporations?
  • What are the merits and demerits of nuclear energy as a substitute for fossil fuels?
  • Can the attainment of sustainable development be realized, or do economic growth and environmental conservation inherently conflict with each other?
  • This essay will examine the ramifications of deforestation on the environment and propose potential strategies to mitigate its effects.
  • To what degree should individuals be incentivized to embrace environmentally conscious lifestyles, such as utilizing public transportation or curtailing meat consumption?
  • What strategies can be implemented by society to mitigate plastic waste and foster recycling practices? What role ought businesses assume in this endeavor?
  • Electric vehicles (EVs) have emerged as a potential solution for mitigating air pollution and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. However, it is imperative to critically evaluate their viability by considering potential drawbacks associated with their adoption.
  • Is it advisable for governments to allocate additional funds towards the enhancement of public transport systems as a means of mitigating the prevalence of privately owned vehicles on roadways?

[Read More: Check out the Complete IELTS Syllabus for this year ]

  • The portrayal of violence in the media has been found to have a significant impact on the propensity for violence within society. To what extent do you concur?
  • The majority of news coverage consists of distressing events, encompassing topics such as armed conflicts, food shortages, incidents, and criminal activities. What is the reason behind this phenomenon? Is it necessary to have a balance of positive and negative news?
  • Is there a belief that celebrities are subjected to mistreatment by the media, or is it considered an inherent consequence of their elevated status?
  • In what ways has the media inadvertently exerted a detrimental influence on children, subjecting them to early exposure to violence?
  • What is your perspective on the deceptive advertising methods employed by media agencies?
  • What is the influence of computer games on contemporary children? Does it contribute to their development or exacerbate their condition? Please provide a specific explanation supported by reasons and examples.
  • There exists a belief among certain individuals that accomplished athletes receive considerably higher remuneration compared to individuals in other significant occupations. Do you believe this action can be considered justified, or do you perceive it as unfair?
  • To what extent does advertising influence consumer behavior by promoting unnecessary purchases, as opposed to providing valuable information about novel products that can enhance individuals' well-being?
  • The popularity of crime novels and TV crime dramas is increasing in numerous countries. What are the contributing factors to this observed trend?
  • Is the promotion of cultural diversity and representation in the content produced by media outlets considered their responsibility?
  • The advent of social media has brought about significant transformations in the manner in which individuals engage with news and information.
  • Should governments exercise regulatory control over the content and veracity of news and information disseminated through social media platforms?
  • This essay will examine the societal implications of "fake news" and its influence on the credibility of media organizations.
  • Is it your opinion that the media should offer impartial coverage of political and social matters?
  • The impact of the accessibility of complimentary online content on conventional media platforms, such as newspapers and magazines, has been a subject of inquiry.

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  • There is a growing concern regarding the educational disparity between economically prosperous nations and those with lower socioeconomic status. What potential courses of action are available for addressing this particular scenario?
  • The primary objective of education is to equip children with the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively navigate and succeed in contemporary society. Should educational institutions consider eliminating music and arts programs from their curriculum in favor of prioritizing practical courses such as computer technology?
  • Is education considered a fundamental entitlement, and should it be universally accessible without financial barriers, irrespective of an individual's economic status?
  • There exists a divergence of opinions regarding the primary benefits of university education. Certain individuals assert that its main advantage lies in facilitating graduates' attainment of improved employment opportunities, whereas others contend that higher education offers a broader array of advantages. This prompt requires an analysis of multiple perspectives and the provision of a personal viewpoint.
  • Should educational activities be incorporated into children's discretionary time, or should leisure time be preserved for unstructured play and relaxation?
  • This essay aims to examine the merits and demerits of co-educational institutions in comparison to single-sex schools.
  • There exists a perspective among certain individuals that the conventional pedagogical approach holds superiority over an instructional methodology centered on experiential learning. What is your stance on the matter?
  • Should university students assume the complete financial burden of their education due to the individual advantages it offers, rather than being a benefit to society at large?
  • Is allocating government funds towards teaching individuals aged 65 and above computer literacy a beneficial expenditure? Kindly express your viewpoint.
  • What are the reasons behind the declining preference for science disciplines among university students in numerous countries presently? What are the societal ramifications of this trend?

[Read More: All About IELTS Grammar You Need to Ace the Exam! ]

  • Homelessness is a prevalent phenomenon within the majority of societies. There is a belief held by some individuals that providing financial resources is the most effective means of aiding them. To what extent do you concur with the given percentage?
  • A growing number of contemporary women opt out of marriage, attributing their decision to the pursuit of financial autonomy. To what degree do you concur or dissent with this viewpoint?
  • Globalization encompasses a range of benefits and drawbacks. Please identify and discuss the significant advantages and disadvantages, as perceived by you.
  • Is the preservation of traditional ways of life imperative amidst the progress of modern civilization?
  • In recent years, there has been a notable inclination among individuals to transition from rural regions to urban areas. This phenomenon raises the question of why people have exhibited such eagerness to relocate, as well as the potential challenges that may arise as a result of this migration.
  • The significance of acquainting the succeeding generation with history from diverse cultures and backgrounds lies in its importance.
  • There exists a disparity in expenditure patterns among individuals, with certain individuals opting for lavish spending on occasions such as weddings and birthday celebrations, while others adopt a more frugal approach. Is this expenditure deemed as a frivolous allocation of funds or an essential societal requirement?
  • Is it plausible to anticipate the elimination of national borders in the foreseeable future, or will the existence of such borders persist indefinitely? This prompt requires an examination of multiple perspectives and the subsequent expression of a personal viewpoint.
  • Do individuals generally experience greater happiness during their teenage years, or does adulthood offer more happiness despite the presence of increased responsibilities?
  • Does the contribution of individuals who generate original ideas surpass that of those who imitate others in terms of societal value?
  • Is it advantageous for parents to fulfill all of their children's requests?
  • The impact of technology, specifically the capacity to engage in remote work, on employees and their equilibrium between work and personal life.
  • To what extent do social networking sites exert a notable adverse influence on individuals and society at large?
  • Can the provision of free education for six years in developing nations have a substantial impact on poverty reduction and the enhancement of fundamental literacy abilities?
  • Does patriotism primarily contribute to global conflicts, or does it function as a deterrent against unscrupulous politicians assuming power and instigating wars within a nation?
  • Prepared meals and processed foods often contain preservatives and chemical additives. What potential advantages can be derived from this, and do these advantages surpass the disadvantages?

[Learn: How to Answer IELTS Advantage Disadvantage Essay ]

  • The prevalence of childhood obesity has emerged as a widespread issue. What are the contributing factors that you believe have led to this issue, and what potential measures can be implemented to mitigate it?
  • A growing number of individuals have begun substituting traditional meals with fast food as a result of the rapid pace of contemporary society. What are the benefits of this trend that surpass the drawbacks?
  • The influence of the media's depiction of a slender ideal for women on society, specifically concerning body image and self-esteem, is a topic of interest.
  • There is contention among certain individuals that to mitigate the potential ramifications of consuming fast food daily, it should be subjected to a prohibition. What is your stance on the matter?
  • The affordability and accessibility of fast food is increasing in numerous nations. Do the drawbacks of this phenomenon outweigh its benefits?
  • To what extent can it be argued that the consumption of junk food is the predominant factor contributing to unhealthy lifestyles among contemporary youth? Please provide your perspective on this matter, indicating the level of agreement or disagreement with this assertion.
  • Should governments consider implementing additional taxes on food and beverage products that contain elevated levels of sugar? This prompt requires an examination of multiple perspectives and the subsequent expression of a personal viewpoint.
  • In light of the escalating rates of childhood obesity, this inquiry delves into the strategies that society can employ to tackle the problem of inadequate dietary selections and sedentary behaviors among children.
  • To what extent has the alteration of dietary patterns and lifestyles among successive generations of children impacted their overall well-being?
  • There is a growing trend among individuals and businesses to opt for technological means of communication over face-to-face interactions. This essay aims to explore the advantages and disadvantages associated with the utilization of technology for communication purposes.
  • There exists a subset of individuals who experience academic failure, yet subsequently achieve notable success in their personal and professional lives. In your opinion, which holds greater significance in life: academic performance during one's educational journey or attaining success after completing formal education?
  • The advent of the internet has led to the widespread adoption of texting as a prominent mode of communication. To what extent do you concur with the notion that face-to-face communication will become obsolete in the future?
  • In contemporary society, a growing number of individuals exhibit a preference for engaging in online communication as opposed to direct interpersonal interaction. The advantages and disadvantages of online communication are worth exploring.
  • To what extent has the utilization of colloquial language and abbreviated forms of communication in contemporary text messaging contributed to a deterioration in proficiency in grammar and spelling? Examine and analyze the various perspectives surrounding the argument.
  • Do contemporary celebrities, particularly those active on Instagram and TikTok, garner more fame for their opulent lifestyles rather than their accomplishments, and does this exert an influence on the children who idolize them?
  • Is it advisable for individuals to maintain a clear distinction between their personal lives and professional lives, or is it socially acceptable to engage in leisure activities with colleagues? This prompt invites an examination of multiple perspectives on a given topic.
  • The advent of modern technology has significantly facilitated the process of acquiring copyrighted music and books, thereby raising pertinent implications.
  • What are the reasons behind the extensive usage of smartphones among certain children, and how would you evaluate this phenomenon in terms of its positive or negative implications?
  • Is it imperative for individuals to engage in risk-taking behaviors in both their professional and personal domains or should they give precedence to exercising caution?

[Read More: IELTS Writing Task 1: Complete Explanation & Examples ]

  • Certain countries face challenges in dealing with the increasing rates of criminal activity. There is a prevailing belief among individuals that augmenting the quantity of law enforcement personnel deployed on public thoroughfares represents the most effective resolution. To what extent do you concur?
  • There is a proposition that suggests replacing prison sentences with community service for specific categories of offenders. To what extent do you concur with this particular viewpoint?
  • To what extent has technology been a contributing factor in the reduction of crime rates?
  • There is a growing trend of increased rates of teenage crime in certain societies, which has sparked discussions regarding the appropriate approach to dealing with young offenders by treating them as adults. What are the drawbacks or limitations associated with this particular approach?
  • Is there a correlation between increased police presence and a decrease in the overall crime rate within a country?
  • Research indicates that a significant proportion of juvenile offenders have been subjected to parental abuse. Examine the ramifications of this phenomenon.
  • Numerous studies have demonstrated a positive correlation between lower socioeconomic status and increased engagement in criminal activities. What is your stance on this evaluation?
  • The significance of stable family structures in the prevention of crime within a nation is a topic of considerable importance.
  • Is the implementation of stringent penalties for driving offenses the primary solution for mitigating traffic accidents, or are additional measures required?
  • Is incarceration the most efficacious approach to tackle the issue of criminality, or should societal efforts be directed toward enhancing educational provisions?

[Read More: Best Tips to Crack IELTS - Preparation Tips for Beginners ]

  • The escalating reliance on mobile phones has engendered disruptions in our social lives.
  • Is it your belief that individuals should prioritize seeking advice from older individuals rather than younger ones?
  • The question at hand pertains to whether the growing reliance on mobile phones within society is a favorable or unfavorable progression.
  • Is the wearing of uniforms in the workplace a requirement or an unnecessary one?
  • Have you ever resided independently from your parents? Please describe your current living arrangement and subsequently discuss the benefits and drawbacks associated with it.
  • There exists a divergence in individuals' preferences regarding their professional trajectory, with certain individuals exhibiting a proclivity towards maintaining a consistent occupation throughout their lifetime, while others demonstrate a propensity for career transitions. This prompt requires an examination of multiple perspectives and the formulation of a personal standpoint.
  • The impact of illicit internet downloads on the music industry, particularly on artists, is a subject of inquiry.
  • Is there a correlation between individuals who engage in leisure reading and possessing a more developed imagination in comparison to those who predominantly consume television content?
  • What strategies can educational institutions employ to enhance student engagement in history lessons?

[Read More: Guide for GMAT AWA Section: 5 Sample Prompts ]

  • What are the reasons behind the increasing trend of individuals choosing to delay marriage and parenthood until their thirties, and what are the potential implications of this phenomenon?
  • Which mode of transportation do you have a preference for when traversing an urban environment: an automobile or a bicycle?
  • Do you have a preference for employment in a large corporation or a small-scale enterprise?
  • Do you concur that the implementation of free 24x7 public transport represents the most optimal approach for alleviating traffic congestion?
  • Is music considered to be the universal language of humanity, and to what degree do you concur with this notion?
  • The impact of the proliferation of digital currencies on the financial environment and its overall desirability as a development.

There exists a viewpoint among certain individuals that advocates for governmental provision of financial aid to artists, including painters and musicians, to strengthen their creative endeavors. An alternative perspective says that artists ought to cultivate self-sufficiency by independently procuring their financial resources. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

The contemporary discourse revolves around the societal significance of artists, encompassing various creative disciplines such as painting and music. There exists a debate on whether the government should provide financial assistance to artists to cultivate their artistic pursuits, or if artists should be responsible for creating their income. This essay aims to examine and analyze multiple perspectives before offering a well-reasoned opinion.

On the one hand, supporters of governmental support for artists argue that persons engaged in creative pursuits make vital contributions to society, frequently without immediate monetary compensation. Governments can effectively support artists by offering financial assistance, enabling them to concentrate on their artistic endeavors without being encumbered by financial constraints. This form of assistance has the potential to facilitate the development of artistic expressions that enhance cultural values and cultivate a sense of national identity. Furthermore, it is frequently observed that artists have significant challenges in achieving financial stability. In this regard, governmental grants or subsidies have been recognized as potential measures to mitigate the financial burdens experienced by artists.

On the other, a competing perspective argues that artists, similar to professionals in other fields, ought to possess self-sufficiency and accountability in creating their financial resources. The argument presented is that the allocation of government finances should prioritize critical services, such as healthcare and education, rather than providing support to individual artists. Furthermore, the attainment of financial independence has the potential to serve as a significant source of motivation for artists, compelling them to engage in mindful efforts, foster innovation, and effectively address the ever-evolving demands of the market.

In my perspective, it is essential to adopt a balanced approach. While it is of utmost importance to foster the growth of artists and facilitate the promotion of their creative endeavors, it may not be feasible to anticipate comprehensive financial backing just from the government. Governments should dedicate a portion of their resources to supporting the arts. However, it is as important for artists to actively seek alternative routes of money generation, such as selling their artwork, engaging in performances, or obtaining financial support through sponsorships and grants from private institutions.

In conclusion, the inquiry regarding the provision of financial assistance by governments to artists or the expectation of self-reliance among artists is a multifaceted matter. The most logical course of action seems to be a middle-ground approach that integrates government funding with artists' financial independence. By achieving this level of balance, society can encourage artistic innovation while still upholding the responsibility of artists to maintain their economic stability .

In IELTS Writing Task 2, you'll be asked to write different kinds of essays that test your ability to explain your ideas clearly and logically. To do well, you need to know the different types of essay formats and how to approach each one. Let's look at five common types of IELTS essays and some sample IELTS questions for each.

1. Opinion Essays: In an opinion essay, you have to say what you think about a certain topic. You should state your point of view, back it up with reasons and examples, and often talk about the other side. Here are a few questions:

a. "Do you agree or disagree with the statement that technology has more positive than negative effects on our lives?"

b. "How much do you agree or disagree with the statement that social media hurts relationships with other people?"

c. "Is it better for kids to grow up in the country than in a big city? Say what you think."

2. Discussion essays: They present both sides of an argument about a certain topic. You need to look at both sides of the issue, make your case, and come to a decision. Here are a few questions:

a. "Talk about the pros and cons of online education compared to learning in a traditional classroom."

b. "How much do you agree or disagree with the idea that the government should pay for everyone's health care?"

c. "Talk about how tourism affects the environment and the people who live there."

3. Solution essays: These look at a specific problem and suggest ways to fix it. You should describe the problem, offer real-world solutions, and explain why they work. Here are a few questions:

a. "What can be done to make traffic in big cities less crowded?"

b. "How can governments get people to use public transport instead of their cars?"

c. "Talk about ways to fix the problem of more and more overweight kids."

4. Advantage or Disadvantage Essays: In these essays, you have to look at the pros and cons of a certain situation, trend, or change. Give a fair assessment of both points of view. Here are a few questions:

a. "What are the pros and cons of being able to work from home?"

b. "Talk about the pros and cons of how globalization affects local economies."

c. "Look at the pros and cons of using fossil fuels as our main source of energy."

5. Direct Question Essays: You have to answer a specific question directly in a direct question essay. Most of the time, these questions start with "What," "Why," "How," or "To what extent." Here are a few questions:

a. "What are the most important things that are causing climate change?"

b. "Why do some people choose to live in the country rather than in cities?"

c. "To what extent should the government be in charge of regulating the internet?"

  • Understand the Question: Read the question carefully and make sure you understand it. Find out what kind of essay you have to write (opinion, discussion, solution, pros and cons, or a straight question).
  • Plan Your Essay: Take a few minutes to come up with ideas for your essay and make an outline. Organize your ideas, main points, and examples to back them up.
  • Start with an introduction that is clear and to the point: It should introduce the topic, give some background information, and state your thesis or main point.
  • Body Paragraphs: Use well-organized body paragraphs to build up your essay. Each paragraph should be about one main idea or argument and include evidence or examples to back it up. A topic sentence goes at the beginning of each paragraph.
  • Use Linking Words: Use linking words and phrases to link your ideas and make your essay make sense. This helps the reader understand what your point is.
  • Address Counterarguments: Address the other side's points of view. If you are writing a discussion essay, you should acknowledge the other side's points of view and respond to them with logical arguments.
  • Provide Evidence: back up your claims with relevant examples, statistics, facts, or your own experiences. Make sure the evidence you use is reliable and relevant to the topic.
  • Conclusion: you should summarise your main points and restate your thesis. You can also add a final thought or suggestion if it makes sense.
  • Proofread and edit: Before you turn in your essay, make sure there are no mistakes in the grammar, spelling, or use of punctuation. Make sure your essay flows well and is easy to read.
  • Practise often: Writing is a skill that gets better the more you do it. Write essays on different topics so you can get used to the different kinds of questions.
  • Time Management: Make good use of your time on the test. Set aside enough time to plan, write, and check for mistakes.
  • Vocabulary and Grammar: Try to learn more words and improve your grammar. Use different types of sentences to make your writing more interesting.

[You may also like: 100+ Top Synonyms List to Strengthen Your Vocabulary ]

  • Learn how to change the meaning of a sentence and use synonyms well : This skill will help you keep your essays from sounding the same.
  • Stay on Topic: Make sure your essay answers the question asked. Don't go off-topic, because it can hurt your grade.
  • Word Count : Write at least 250 words to meet the minimum requirement for word count.
  • Practice your handwriting: If the test is on paper, you should practice writing essays by hand to make sure they are legible.
  • Feedback : Ask your teachers or peers for feedback on your writing to find out where you can improve.

1. How is the Writing Task 2 scored?

A: IELTS Writing Task 2 is graded on several things, such as completing the task, making sense, using a wide range of vocabulary, and using correct grammar. Each of these criteria gets a band score, and the average of these scores is what determines your overall band score for Writing Task 2. Task achievement, which looks at how well you answer the question, is especially important.

2. What is the ideal essay structure for Task 2?

A; The following is a typical essay structure for IELTS Task 2:

Introduce the topic, give some background information, and say what your main point is or what your thesis is.

Body Paragraphs: Use well-organized body paragraphs that each focus on one main idea or argument to build your essay.

In the end, restate your thesis and a summary of your main points.

Depending on the type of essay (opinion, discussion, solution, etc.), the structure can be different. Always make sure that your essay has a clear beginning, middle, and end.

3. How can I improve my writing speed?

A: To write faster, you need to practice and work quickly. Start by writing some timed essays to get used to how much time you have. Make a clear outline of your ideas before you start writing. Don't edit too much as you write. Instead, focus on getting your ideas down. With practice, you'll get better at what you do.

4. Are there any common mistakes to avoid in Task 2?

A: Common mistakes to avoid are getting off-topic, not addressing all parts of the essay prompt, not giving examples or evidence to back up your points, and not checking for grammar and spelling mistakes when you're done. Also, don't use words and sentence structures that are too hard to understand if they could lead to mistakes.

5. What resources can I use to practice Writing Task 2?

A: You can get help with Writing Task 2 from official IELTS practice materials, IELTS preparation books, online writing prompts, and sample essays, among other places. You could ask teachers or native speakers for feedback to find out where you need to improve.

The IELTS Writing Task 2 is a big part of the test that looks at how well you can communicate ideas, evaluate arguments, and write clearly. By reading about a wide range of essay topics in this blog, you can learn a lot about the kinds of questions you might be asked and how to answer them. Don't forget to practice often, come up with a clear essay structure, and focus on meeting the specific needs of the task.

No matter what you're writing about—culture, the environment, education, or something else—careful planning and practice will greatly increase your chances of doing well on IELTS Writing Task 2. So, use these topics, work on improving your writing skills, and go to your IELTS test with confidence. Good luck with your IELTS test!

[You may also like: Best Books for IELTS Preparation for Self Study for 2023 ]

Frequently Asked Questions

Can enter the us without ielts.

Yes, some universities don’t make IELTS scores mandatory and some universities have waivers during admissions through which you can enter the US without IELTS.

Which exam is best for going abroad?

It depends on the course you are taking up. For English language proficiency, the best tests to choose from are IELTS, PTE, and TOEFL.

How many marks are required to go abroad?

A minimum of 60% is mandatory to be eligible to go abroad. For studying abroad, you may need to submit scores of IELTS, TOEFL, SAT, PTE, GMAT, or GRE.

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Recent IELTS Writing Topics and Questions 2023

Read here all the newest IELTS Questions and topics from 2023  with answers. Recent Writing Task 2 Sample Answers. To get The Answer, Click on Questions.

October 2023

5 October 2023:  Some people believe that professional athletes serve as positive role models for young people, while others argue that their behaviour both on and off the field, can have negative influences. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

September 2023

29 September: There is a growing emphasis on sustainable living and reducing environmental impact in many societies. What are the challenges of adopting a sustainable lifestyle? What practical actions can individuals take to contribute to sustainability?*

27 September: Some people feel that the media should not openly share the private lives of celebrities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

15 September: Young people are often influenced in their behaviours by others in the same age group. Some argue that peer pressure is important, while others feel it has distinct disadvantages. Do the disadvantages of peer pressure outweigh the advantages?*

12 September: Virtual reality can be used for therapeutic interventions and mental health treatments. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

3 September:  Schools should use films, computers and games instead of books. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

1 September 2023:  Nowadays, most countries can improve the standard of living through economic development, but some social values are lost as a result. Do you think the advantages of this phenomenon outweigh the disadvantages?

August 2023

26 August 2023: Human activities have negative effects on plant and animal species. Some people think it is too late to do anything about this problem. Others believe that effective measures can be taken to improve this situation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.*

19 August 2023 Evening: These days, many people like to watch live performances (like shows or concerts) at home, either on TV or on a computer, instead of attending in person. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?*

19 August 2023 Morning: It is impossible to help all people in the world, so governments should focus on people in their own countries. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

10 August 2023: Studies show that many criminals have a low level of education. For this reason, people believe that the best way to reduce crime is to educate people in prison so they can get a job when they leave prison. Do you agree or disagree?*

5 August 2023: In some countries, celebrities complain about the way the media publicize their private lives. Some people say that they should accept it as part of their fame. Do you agree or disagree?*

29 July 2023 Evening:  In some countries today, children are taught from a young age that competition is important and that winning is everything. Is this a positive or a negative development?*

29 July 2023 Morning: Many People Believe that countries should produce food for the whole population and import as little food as possible. To What Extent do you agree or disagree?

22 July 2023 Evening: Historical objects should be returned to their origin country. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

22 July 2023 Morning: New technologies have changed the way children spend their leisure time. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?*

15 July 2023 Evening:  Some feel that governments should prioritize healthcare instead of other important areas. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

15 July 2023 Morning:  Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think that the children’s parents should be punished instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.*

6 July 2023 Evening:  Around the world, people are now living longer than ever before in the past. Some say an aging population creates problems for governments. Others believe there are benefits to society having more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of possessing an aging population outweigh the disadvantages?*

6 July 2023 Morning: Students leave high school without learning the way how to manage their money. What are the reasons and solutions for this issue?*

24 June 2023 Evening: Some people think it is better for one single legal system throughout the world. Others say countries should have their own law. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

24 June 2023 Morning:  Some people think that children can learn about history by visiting museums, while others believe that there are better ways to learn about history. Discuss both views and give your opinion.*

15 June 2023 Evening: Some people say that the increasing business and cultural contact between countries is a positive development. While others think that many countries will lose their national identities as a result. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

15 June 2023 Morning:  The most important aim of science ought to be to improve people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree?*

10 June 2023 Evening:  Fast food is a part of life in many places. Some people think this has bad effects on lifestyle and diets. Do you agree or disagree?

10 June 2023 Morning: These days, people do not go out for live performances or concerts, and they prefer to enjoy watching them on computers and laptops. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

3 June 2023 Evening: Childcare training courses should be mandatory for all parents. Do you agree or disagree with this statement? Give your own opinion and include relevant examples.

3 June 2023 Morning: Many university students want to learn about different subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others feel it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for their qualification. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

27 May 2023 Evening:  The international community must act immediately to ensure all nations reduce their consumption of fossil fuels. eg gas and oil. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

27 May 2023 Morning: When new towns are planned, it is important to build more public parks or sports facilities than shopping centers for people to spend their free time. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

20 May 2023 Evening: Crime rates are likely to decline due to the advancements in technology. Which will help prevent and solve crimes in an easier way. Do you agree or disagree?

20 May 2023 Morning: Online shopping is significantly increasing. What impact does this have on people, what are the disadvantages, and what are the job opportunities?

11 May 2023 Evening: Nowadays, museums and historical sites are mainly visited by foreign tourists Instead of locals. Why is this happening? What can be done to get the locals to visit museums and historical sites more?

11 May 2023 Morning: Many historical sites and museums are mainly visited by tourists, not local people. Why is this the case? What can be done to attract local people to visit these historical sites and museums?

6 May 2023 Evening: Many people decide on a career path early in their lives and keep to it. This, they argue, leads to a more satisfying working life. To what extent do you agree with this view? What other things can people do in order to have a satisfying working life?

6 May 2023 Morning:  Many think that religion should be taught in schools, while others think it should be avoided. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

29 April 2023 Evening: Many today feel that attention spans are becoming shorter due to the prevalence of social media. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

29 April 2023 Morning: Nowadays, more and more people decide to have children later in their life. What do you think are the reasons for this? Do the advantages of the trend outweigh the disadvantages?

20 April 2023 Evening:  Nowadays, it is more convenient and easier for people to travel to other countries. Is this a positive or negative development?

20 April 2023 Morning: Some believe that students should begin learning a language very early in school, while others think these subjects should be taught later. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

15 April 2023 Evening:  Mobile phones and the internet could have many benefits for old people. However, this age group uses technology the least. What are the benefits for old people of using mobile phones and the internet? How can we encourage them to use this new technology?

15 April 2023 Morning: To what extent do you agree or disagree? Some feel that students should not have to take standardized tests in school.

1 April 2023 Evening: Demand for gas and oil is increasing, so finding new sources in remote and untouched areas is a necessity. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? INDIA

1 April 2023 Evening: The education of young people is a top priority in all countries of the world. Some people believe that educating adults who cannot read or write is important to society and needs more funding. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

1 April 2023 Morning: Some feel that individuals should have the right to strike in all jobs, while others feel there are exceptions. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.*

25 March 2023 Evening: Some people think it is a good thing for senior managers to have much higher salaries than the other workers in a company. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

25 March 2023 Morning:  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.

18 March 2023 Evening:  Some people claim that public museums and art galleries will not be needed because people can see historical objects and works of art by using a computer. Do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

18 March 2023 Morning: Many believe that the goal of one’s career should be to pursue a passion, while others feel it is merely a way to earn a livelihood. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

11 March 2023 Evening: It is better for people to be unemployed than to be employed with a job they do not enjoy. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

11 March 2023 Morning:  New technologies have changed the way children spend their free time. Do you think the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

2 March 2023 Evening: Some People Say that every human being can create art. Others think only people born with the ability can create art. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

2 March 2023 Morning:  Some feel that movies and TV shows are a good way to study history despite their lack of historical accuracy at times. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

February 2023

25 February 2023 Evening: In some countries, it is possible for people to have a variety of food that has been transported from all over the world. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?

25 February 2023 Morning:  Today, many people do not know their neighbours. Why is this? What can be done about this?

16 February 2023 Evening: Some children nowadays take sports seriously while others play sports in their free time. Is this a positive or negative development?

16 February 2023 Morning:  Nowadays, not enough students choose science subjects at university in many countries. Why is this? What effects does this have on society?

11 February 2023 Evening: Environment protection is the responsibility of politicians, not individuals, and individuals can do too little. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

11 February 2023 Morning: Many People Believe that playing games and watching tv programs is beneficial, but for others, it does not improve the mental ability of children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

4 February 2023 Evening: There have been many inventions in human history, such as the wheel. Some people think the most important thing is the internet. To what extent do you agree or disagree with the opinion?

4 February 2023 Morning: Some People think that it is necessary to use animals for testing medicines or products intended for human use. Others, however, criticize this as animal cruelty. Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

January 202 3

28 January 2023 Evening: Some people think printed books are no longer necessary in this digital era as well writing can be stored electronically. Others believe that printed books still play important roles. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

28 January 2023 Morning: Some people think that technological development has made life complex. The Only possible solution is not to use technology to live a simple life. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

21 January 2023 Evening: University education should be free for all students. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

21 January 2023 Morning: An increase in the production of consumer goods results in damaging the environment. What are the causes of this, and give a positive solution?

14 January 2023 Evening: Schools are no longer necessary because children can get so much information available through the internet, and they can study just as well at home. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

14 January 2023 Morning: Parents should encourage children to spend less time on studies and more time in physical activities. To What extent do you agree or disagree?

14 January 2023  Morning: Some People believe that childhood is the best stage of happiness. While others believe that a person can enjoy more happiness in other stages of life. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

7 January 2023  Evening: Many people think that there is a general increase in anti-social behavior and disrespect for others. What do you think? What are the reasons for this, and how to fix the situation?

7 January 2023  Morning:  Solving environmental problems should be the responsibility of an international organization rather than each national government. Do you agree or disagree? Kolkata Center

7 January 2023  Morning: Some people believe that climate affects a person’s way of life, while others believe that climate has a greater impact on a region’s economy. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

January 2023: Car ownership has increased so rapidly over the past thirty years that there are constant traffic jams in many cities around the world. How true do you think this statement is? What measures can governments take to discourage people from owning cars?

January 2023: Some countries have legal ages at which people can drink. Other countries believe not having strict laws is a better policy. Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Topics Worldwide

Some people think that history can tell us little, but others believe that studying the past can help us better understand the present. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion by giving examples from your own experience. Spain*

Some people believe that governments should enact laws on nutrition and food choices to improve public health, while others believe it is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion. New Zealand

Nowadays, most countries are improving their standard of living through economic development. But as a result, some social values ​​are lost. Do you think the advantages of the phenomenon outweigh the disadvantages? Singapore*

Nowadays, distance-learning programs have gained popularity, but some people argue that online courses can never be as good as those taken at a college or university in person. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Germany*

Some people encourage watching sports as a way of learning about teamwork and strategy, while others believe that one can learn these skills only through playing sports. Discuss both views and give your opinion. Israel*

It is a natural process when animal species become extinct, as dinosaurs died out in the past. There is no reason for people to prevent this from happening. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Egypt*

Some people think that it is important to use taxpayer money to search for life on other planets. However, others believe that this is a waste of public money because there are many more important issues that require funding on our own planet. Discuss both points of view and give your opinion. Canada*

Some people think they have the right to use as much fresh water as they want, but others think that the government should control the use of fresh water as it is a limited resource. Discuss both points of view and express your opinion. Malaysia*

Some people believe that the increasing use of computers and mobile phones for communication is having a negative impact on the reading and writing skills of young people. Do you agree or disagree? UAE*

Canada:  Some people believe that schoolchildren should be allowed to make decisions about the school rules, while others think that teachers should be responsible for making the rules. Discuss both views and give your opinion.*

Nigeria: In some countries, more and more parents have begun to teach their children at home rather than send them to school. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?*

Japan: Public health is becoming an urgent issue nowadays. Some argue that governments should create nutrition and food choice laws to improve public health, while others believe that it is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both views and give your opinion.*

UAE & Ghana: These days, many people like to watch live performances (such as shows or concerts) at home, either on TV or on a computer, instead of attending in person. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?*

Vietnam: Nowadays, many people spend less and less time with family. Why is this happening? How does this affect individuals and their families?*

Pakistan & Iran: Some people think visiting museums and art galleries is the best way to learn about art, while others believe there are better ways of doing that. Discuss both views and give your opinion.*

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Top 70 Controversial Debate Topics For Critical Thinkers in 2023

Top 70 Controversial Debate Topics For Critical Thinkers in 2023

Jane Ng • 05 Oct 2023 • 6 min read

Whether you love or hate them, controversial debate topics are an inescapable part of our lives. They challenge our beliefs and push us out of our comfort zones, forcing us to examine our assumptions and biases. With so many controversial issues, you needn’t go far if you’re looking for a compelling debate. This blog post will provide you with a list of controversial debate topics to inspire your next discussion.

Tips for Better Engagement

  • Student Debate Topics
  • Social Issue Examples

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Table of Contents

What are controversial debate topics, good controversial debate topics, fun controversial debate topics.

  • Controversial Debate Topics For Teens 

Social Controversial Debate Topics

  • Controversial Debate Topics On Current Events 
  • Key Takeaways 

Frequently Asked Questions

discussion essay topics 2023

Controversial debate topics are subjects – that can spark strong opinions and disagreements among people with different beliefs and values. These topics can cover various subjects, such as social issues, politics, ethics, and culture, and may challenge traditional beliefs or established norms.

One thing that makes these topics controversial is that there is often no clear consensus or agreement among people, which can lead to debates and disagreements. Each person may have their own interpretation of the facts or values that influence their perspective. It’s difficult for all to reach a resolution or agreement.

Despite the potential for heated discussions, controversial debate topics can be a great way to explore different viewpoints, challenge assumptions, and promote critical thinking and open dialogue. 

However, it is crucial to distinguish controversial topics from controversial opinions – statements or actions that cause disagreement or conflict. 

  • For example, climate change can be controversial, but a politician’s comment denying the existence of climate change can be controversial.
  • Is social media harming society more than it helps?
  • Is it appropriate to make marijuana legal for recreational use?
  • Should college be provided for free?
  • Should schools teach comprehensive sex education?
  • Is it ethical to use animals for scientific research?
  • Does human activity account for the majority of climate change?
  • Should beauty pageants be stopped?
  • Are credit cards doing more harm than good?
  • Should diet pills be banned?
  • Should human cloning be permitted?
  • Should there be stricter laws on gun ownership or fewer restrictions?
  • Is climate change a serious issue that requires urgent action, or is it overblown and exaggerated?
  • Should individuals have the right to end their own lives in certain circumstances?
  • Should certain types of speech or expression be censored or restricted?
  • Is eating animal meat unethical?
  • Should there be more or less strict regulations on immigration and refugee policies?
  • Is job security the biggest motivation rather than money?
  • Are zoos doing more harm than good?
  • Are parents legally responsible for their children’s actions?
  • Does peer pressure have a net positive or negative impact?

Controversial debate topics

  • Is it better to have a small group of close friends or a large group of acquaintances?
  • Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast?
  • Should you put mayo or ketchup on the fries?
  • Is it acceptable to dip fries in a milkshake?
  • Should you brush your teeth before or after breakfast? 
  • Is it better to use a bar of soap or liquid soap? 
  • Is waking early or staying up late better?
  • Should you make your bed every day?
  • Should you wear a mask in public places?

Controversial Debate Topics For Teens 

  • Should teenagers access birth control without parental consent?
  • Should the voting age be lowered to 16?
  • Should parents have access to their children’s social media accounts?
  • Should cell phone use be allowed during school hours?
  • Is homeschooling a better option than traditional schooling?
  • Should the school day start later to allow for more sleep for students?
  • Is studying should be voluntary?
  • Should schools be allowed to discipline students for social media use outside of school?
  • Should school hours be reduced?
  • Should drivers be banned from using mobile phones while driving?
  • Should the legal driving age be raised to 19 in some countries?
  • Should students take classes on parenting?
  • Should teenagers be allowed to work part-time jobs during the school year?
  • Should social media platforms be held responsible for the spread of misinformation?
  • Should schools make drug testing mandatory for students?
  • Should cyberbullying be considered to be an offense?
  • Should teens be allowed to have relationships with significant age differences?
  • Should schools allow students to carry concealed weapons for self-defense?
  • Should teens be allowed to get tattoos and piercings without parental consent?
  • Is online learning as effective as in-person learning?

discussion essay topics 2023

  • Should hate speech be protected under freedom of speech laws?
  • Should the government provide a guaranteed basic income for all citizens?
  • Is affirmative action necessary to address systemic inequalities in society?
  • Should Violence/Sex on TV be abolished?
  • Should illegal immigrants be allowed to receive social welfare benefits?
  • Is the pay discrepancy between men and women the result of discrimination?
  • Should the government regulate the use of artificial intelligence?
  • Should healthcare be a universal human right?
  • Should the assault weapons ban be extended?
  • Should billionaires be taxed at a higher rate than the average citizen?
  • Is it necessary to legalize and regulate prostitution?
  • Who is more important in the family, father or mother?
  • Is GPA an outdated way of assessing a student’s knowledge?
  • Is the war on drugs a failure?
  • Should vaccinations be mandatory for all children?

Controversial Debate Topics On Current Events 

  • Is the use of social media algorithms to spread misinformation a threat to democracy?
  • Should COVID-19 vaccine mandates be implemented?
  • Is the use of artificial intelligence ethical in the workplace?
  • Should AI be used instead of humans?
  • Should companies be required to provide advance notice of lay-offs to employees?
  • Is it ethical for companies to lay off employees while CEOs and other executives receive large bonuses?

discussion essay topics 2023

Key Takeaways

Hopefully, with 70 controversial debate topics, you can expand your knowledge and gain new perspectives. 

However, it is essential to approach these topics with respect, an open mind, and a willingness to listen and learn from others. Engaging in respectful and meaningful debates on controversial topics with AhaSlides’ template library and interactive features can help us broaden our understanding of the world and each other, and possibly even lead to progress in finding solutions to some of the most pressing issues of our time.

1/ What are good topics to debate about? 

Good topics to debate can vary widely depending on the interests and perspectives of the individuals involved. Here are some examples of good debate topics:

2/ What are some controversial debates? 

Controversial debates are those that involve topics that can generate strong and opposing viewpoints and opinions. These topics are often contentious and can provoke heated arguments and debates among individuals or groups who hold different beliefs and values. 

Here are some examples:

3/ What is an emotional and controversial topic? 

An emotional and controversial topic can provoke strong emotional reactions and divides people based on their personal experiences, values, and beliefs. 

For example:

Do you still want to be more explicit about an excellent debater portrait? Here, we’ll give a practical and convincing example of a good debater for you to learn and hone your debate skills.

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IELTS Essay Topics 2023: Sample Essay &Tips

Pruthvi Das Image

Pruthvi Das ,

Mar 4, 2024

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Want to know about the popular IELTS essay writing topics? This article will give you an idea of how to write an IELTS essay, structure of the essay, along with the samples and tips.

IELTS Essay Topics 2023: Sample Essay &Tips

IELTS essay topics can be cumbersome to think about. Not all of us are gifted with writing, let alone writing entire essays. But, it’s a staple addition to any English test, one that literally shows your language skills and knowledge, since essays are a form of self–expression. One of the ways we could ace the IELTS Essay sections is to learn the intricacies behind writing an essay itself.

This article will provide you with everything there is to know about how to write essays in IELTS, what some of the IELTS essay writing samples are like, what the types of topics you’d cover, and a few IELTS essay writing tips worth checking out.

Table of Contents

IELTS Essay Topics 2023

  • IELTS Essay Sample Topic 2023

IELTS Essay Topics for Writing Task 2

  • IELTS Essay Topics Previous Year

IELTS Essay Types

Common lines for ielts essay 2023.

  • How To Write Essay in IELTS 2023?

Top 5 Important Tips for Writing IELTS Essay

In this section, you’ll get to know the latest IELTS essay topics to write about. Although these topics are not confirmed to appear for the tests, we can confirm that they hold a lot of value for your practice sessions. Here’s the list of topics under each category.

IELTS Essay Sample Topics 2023

Here is a list of IELTS essay samples with highlighted keywords that you can read through to see how it’s been written. 

We’ve segregated the topics based on their respective band types so that you know exactly what Band score to target.

  • IELTS Essay Samples Band 8
  • Air Travel Essay IELTS: Restrictions on Air Travel to Reduce Pollution
  • Crime Essay IELTS: Juvenile Delinquency
  • Education Essay IELTS: Vocational Training vs Academic Education
  • Environment Essay IELTS: Problems of International Tourism and How to Fix Them
  • Technology Essay IELTS: Internet as an Information Library
  • IELTS Essay Samples Band 8.5
  • Crime Essay IELTS: Reducing Crime by Educating Criminals
  • Entertainment Essay IELTS: Ban or Support Extreme Sports
  • Health Essay IELTS: Everyone Should Adopt a Vegetarian Diet
  • Health Essay IELTS: The Drastic Increase in the Average Weight and Its Effects
  • Opinion Essay IELTS: Volunteering and Donating
  • IELTS Essay Samples Band 9
  • Business Essay IELTS: Advantages and Disadvantages of Advertising
  • Education Essay IELTS: Improve Education Quality by Receiving Student Feedback on Teachers
  • Government Essay IELTS: Funding for Protection of Wild Animals or Human Population
  • Society Essay IELTS: The Drastic Fall of Eating Meals With Families

This article can’t go without providing you with details related to the IELTS Essay Writing Task 2 topics themselves! For any previous year sections, the topics we’ve listed there have appeared at least once in that year’s tests. We’ve segregated them into year-based subsections. We have a separate article for a complete list of IELTS Writing Task 2 essay topics that does not have any basis applied to it, which we suggest that you check out - visit IELTS Writing Task 2 Essay Topics and Questions .

Each of the categories contains topics that come with a different essay type. We also recommend going through the IELTS essay sample papers that we’ve provided so that you can take a note of what topics were explored.

All about IELTS Exam

IELTS Essay Topics - Previous years

If you’re wondering what the topics for the previous year’s IELTS exam were from across the globe, then we’ve got a full list waiting for you! You can use these topics as a way to practice for the upcoming IELTS test this year. Keep in mind that you only need to write between 250 to 300 words. We’ve arranged them based on their appropriate categories. Most of these topics are based on current affairs and general knowledge, so we advise you to keep yourself updated with what’s going on.

  • Subjects like arts, music, and drama are more important than other school subjects and therefore should be given more time in the calendar. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Some people think that children should be involved in making school rules. Others think that only adults can make school rules. Discuss both points of view and give your own opinion.
  • Some people believe that it is important for children to attend extra classes outside school, while others believe that they should be allowed to play after school. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
  • Some believe that pupils should be given less homework, others say the opposite. What is your opinion?
  • Some people believe that the experiences children have before they go to school will have the greatest effect on their future life. Others argue that experiences gained when they are teenagers have a bigger influence. Discuss both views and give your own opinions.

Social Affairs

  • Some people argue that it’s best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or shortage of money. Others believe that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
  • It is better for young people to get advice from older people than young people. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Some people believe that entertainers are paid too much and their impact on society is negative, while others disagree and believe that they deserve the money they make because of their positive effect on others. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  • Young couples nowadays prefer to have fewer children than previous generations. Most of them prefer to accomplish other goals in their life first. Is this a positive or negative development?
  • In some places, young people find it difficult to communicate with older people. Why is this? What are the solutions?
  • Some educators believe that every child should be taught how to play a musical instrument. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Some people believe that the government should spend more money putting in more works of art like paintings and statues in cities to make them better places to live in. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Historical objects should be brought back to their country of origin. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Some believe that we should invent a new language for international communication. Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
  • In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough. What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?
  • Some people say that staying in a hotel when you are in a foreign country is not the best way to know the country and its people. What is your opinion?

Finance and Economy

  • It is too expensive to look after and repair old buildings. This money should be spent on building modern buildings instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Online shopping is significantly increasing. What effects does this have on the environment and the types of jobs required?
  • Many people believe that we should protect all wild animals while others believe we should just protect some of them. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  • Tourism is causing environmental problems all around the world. What are the main causes, and what are some solutions to them?
  • Many people get bored with their job and eventually feel dissatisfied. What can companies do to change this trend?
  • Farming is the backbone of every country but nowadays many youngsters hesitate to enter this profession. Why is this the case and what can be done to avoid it?

Health and Fitness

  • Sports should be made mandatory for all children as it helps in physical health. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Some people think that dangerous extreme sports such as rock climbing and sky-diving should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
  • In order to be successful at a sport, some think you must be physically strong while others believe mental strength is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
  • More and more people today are drinking sugar-based drinks. What are the reasons for this? What are the solutions?
  • Even though doctors advise old people to get more exercise, many old people do not get enough. What are the reasons for this? What are some possible solutions for this?

History and Politics

  • Prison is the common way in most countries to solve the problem of crime. However, a more effective solution is to provide people with a better education. Do you agree or disagree?
  • Some people believe that children that commit crimes should be punished. Others think the parents should be punished instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
  • Governments should spend more money on medical research and less on researching the environment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Throughout history, male leaders have led us into violence and conflict. If a society is governed by female leaders it will be more peaceful. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
  • Because most information about culture and history can be found on the internet today, museums are not necessary. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Some scientists think that computers will soon become more intelligent than humans. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
  • In recent years, television has contributed most to changing people’s quality of life. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • Computer games are very popular for all ages and nationalities. Parents think this has little educational value and it will be harmful for children. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • The first man to walk on the moon claimed it was a step forward for mankind. However, it has made little difference in most people’s lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
  • The personal information of many individuals is held by large internet companies and organisations. Do you think the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?

Essay types are all the rage since the time IELTS introduced essays, of which there were many. Consequently, it was difficult for candidates to determine what they should focus on. Categorizing these essays helped ease the tension. These essay types are prominent in the IELTS Task 2 section of the test, which we will explore in-depth. In total, there are 5 types of IELTS essays:

  • Opinion Essays
  • Discussion Essays
  • Problem–Solution Essays
  • Advantages and Disadvantages Essays
  • Double–Question Essays

We've given ample information related to them individually, but the information is compact enough to be absorbable. Let’s get down to it.

Opinion Essay

These IELTS essays deal more with your agreement or disagreement with a particular topic. Your best course of action would be to write the essay based on the strong arguments you can make about it. It’s pertinent that you stick to your opinion instead of wavering between both sides since consistency is key for such types of essays. The basic structure is usually along the following lines:

  • What your opinion is.
  • Whether you agree or disagree with the statement.
  • The extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement.

The IELTS essay structure for opinion essays is given in a tabulated form below. It is applicable in a top–to–bottom order.

Discussion Essay

Discussion essays for IELTS are quite different from opinion essays for IELTS. Unlike opinion essays, discussion essays require you to argue for both sides. It’s not to say that your opinion on the matter cannot be stated. However, it has to match both the intent and the relevance of the topic, and opinions tend to digress from the main point in such essays, so their role is minimized.

Normally, one would think that it’s easier to write arguments you support first before writing arguments you oppose. However, we’ve found that the following points help develop a flow that’s well-suited for discussion-based essay writing:

  • Developing both sides of the argument.
  • Talking about the views you disagree with first.
  • Talking about the views you agree with the second.

In order to understand how discussion IELTS essays work in general, we must first know what the IELTS essay structure for them is like. This has been tabulated for your convenience below.

Problem Solution Essay

These essays are analytical in nature in that providing opinions will bear little fruit. Since these essays are largely about finding solutions to major (or minor) problems, logical, fact-based arguments are to be provided.

Problem-solution essays are also particularly difficult to write due to the nature of their structure. A common misconception that most test-takers hold is that providing a list of causes, effects, and solutions can help make their essay writing shine. That is not the case.

For one, the excess number of reasons would disintegrate the core focus of your arguments. Meaning, they can’t be explained in detail. Your arguments will grow lukewarm — not compelling — which is something you want to avoid.

For two, the ‘list’ of causes/effects/solutions may or may not have any interlinked logic. Usually, essays are all about interconnecting vital pieces of information to make a single but strong argument about the topic at hand. Failing this will make your essay brittle and disconnected; a common trap you must avoid if you value the marks you can get from it.

Here’s the actual structure behind writing a good problem–solution essay to prevent the above issues from happening.

Advantages and Disadvantages Essay

These IELTS essays largely put forth the advantages and disadvantages of a particular topic at hand. Its nature is quite simple compared to the rest of the essay types. But once again, good practice suggests keeping your points under minimal numbers, since you will spend your time writing down logical explanations for them.

Advantages and disadvantages essays are special in that the structure they follow is subject to change, depending on the topic you’re writing about. It’s not that the structures for the other essay types cannot be changed at all; in fact, you can bend them to your needs. However, the structure for these essay types provides more malleability.

As a point of reference, here are two main structures for these essays.

Double–Question Essay

This is probably the most interesting essay type so far. Why? Because it provides a single statement, and two questions related to it. The questions may or may not be interlinked, but you need to write your answers for both of them.

It’s the only essay in which not everything you write has to be interlinked, only related to the topic at hand. This gives you more headspace to map out separate elements at a time. Here’s a structure if you need it.

Writing essays with a formal tone can be difficult. However, that tends to be the case when you’re trying to start some paragraphs. We’ve found that starting a paragraph a certain way helps ease the reader into the content a bit. Here are some common types of useful lines you could use for your IELTS essay:

  • Introductory Phrases: You can introduce the topic by using phrases or sentences similar to the ones below.
  • Phrases of Exempli Gratia: In order to provide examples, you need an introductory sentence to go alongside it. Here are some phrases that you could use.
  • Phrases of Opposition: Whenever you’re making an opposing statement, it’s best to use phrases, sentences, or adverbs that emphasize the difference.
  • Phrases of Comparison: Comparing things is quite common in written texts, so the following phrases are useful in those situations.
  • Phrases of Conjunction: These words can help connect two different points together to make a single argument if need be.
  • Phrases of Opinion: Expressing an opinion can leave a daunting impression on the reader if done incorrectly. Make it clear to the reader that it’s subjective by using the following phrases whenever required.
  • Phrases of Consequence: The following phrases can help make the distinction between cause and effect clearer.
  • Phrases of Result: These phrases will help you jumpstart the answers to the arguments you put forth in the essay.

We’ve provided the keywords for each of those in a tabulated form below, so you will know exactly what those phrases are. Please bear in mind that the phrases are modular, so the correct usage depends entirely on how you’ve structured your essay and your writing style. It’s always better to understand how they’re used before you can bend them to your advantage.

How to Write Essay in IELTS 2023?

A good rule of thumb before writing anything is to follow a particular structure. This applies to any kind of writing, not only essays. Planning your writing out, mapping the contents spaciously, and understanding what to include and exclude can help tremendously. How?

Well, for one, writing about the topic will feel much easier for you since the organized structure will help you retain more ideas. And for two — and this is quite possibly the most important point regarding this — it’d help the readers digest what’s been written, and get a sense of your writing style.

That’s where the IELTS essay structure comes in. Although there are many ways to approach a structure for your IELTS essay, the tried–and–tested method is to follow the Band 9 Essay. Here’s how it works:

  • Introduction: Introduce the topic to the reader.
  • Body Paragraph I — Advantages: This section will contain everything that’s good about the topic you’re writing on.
  • Body Paragraph II — Disadvantages: This section is the opposite; write on how the topic has a negative impact on the reader.
  • Conclusion: Any extra, secondary information can be added here before formally closing the essay.

The length of the essay isn’t as much of an issue as the available time is. IELTS essays are usually within the 250–300–word range, but writing longhand can take a while. Understandably, 30 minutes may seem too short to finish your essay. Hence, we recommend strategizing your writing appropriately so that your time is optimized.

It also depends on what kind of essay you’re writing about. To prevent any information overload, we’ve provided their individual structures under the IELTS essay type section itself.

If you’re finding issues trying to grasp how to write IELTS essays well, then maybe following the tips and suggestions below will help you.

  • Take a few moments to grasp what’s been asked before you write anything so that you map what to write mentally.
  • See how magazines, news articles, and blog posts are written to influence yourself to write like them.
  • Understanding what to exclude from your writing is as important as understanding what to include in it.
  • During practice, shave your writing down by half its word count, and add new, relevant information.
  • You will almost always make a mistake in either the flow, the logic, or the grammar, so proofread your essay without fail.

It’s a lot to take in, but so long as you take it slowly, most of the information in this article is actually a piece of cake to follow through! If there’s anything more you’d like to know about the IELTS essay topics, feel free to put your thoughts down below in the comments section.

Or post your experience of writing the IELTS exams! Share your thoughts, your personal tips, what you liked or disliked about the exam, or anything crucial that you want others to know about it.

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discussion essay topics 2023

  • Sep 27, 2023

New Essay Topics for 2023—and How to Approach Them

new essay topics for 2023

After years of relative consistency in their essay prompts, US colleges began shaking up their essay prompts in 2020—and this year, that trend has continued, with many schools introducing brand-new essay prompts for 2023. We’ve noticed a few trends in how colleges are changing their essay prompts; here’s our take on the new developments.

Diversity and Flexibility

This year’s essay changes tend to boil down to three themes: flexibility, diversity, and community engagement. Colleges are showing a greater interest than ever in how students’ life experiences have shaped what they’ll contribute to the class—and in the interest of learning that, they’re offering broader essay prompts that allow more room for creative topics. 

Princeton is a great case study for this. This year, they’ve removed their essay prompt about difficult conversations and replaced it with this one:

Princeton values community and encourages students, faculty, staff and leadership to engage in respectful conversations that can expand their perspectives and challenge their ideas and beliefs. As a prospective member of this community, reflect on how your lived experiences will impact the conversations you will have in the classroom, the dining hall or other campus spaces. What lessons have you learned in life thus far? What will your classmates learn from you? In short, how has your lived experience shaped you? (500 words or fewer)

Provided the student frames their story correctly and pays attention to the second half of the prompt (what classmates will learn from them), there are very few topics that cannot be discussed for this question. We love that it gives students the freedom to share their favorite life experience or elaborate on the community they grew up in—and to do so in 500 words of detail. Choosing your best life experience (that you didn’t write about in the Common App personal statement) means you can draw on material from other applications, expanding your best essay from another school rather than writing a new one from scratch. This means the question may require less time to answer than its predecessor, even though the word count is longer. 

Many other schools have introduced shorter versions of this prompt: For instance, UVA has added:

What about your background, perspective, or experience will serve as a source of strength for you or those around you at UVA? (300 words)

While these prompts are shorter than Princeton’s, they are fundamentally similar. You have a lot of freedom to tell your best story to admission officers, but you should also explicitly discuss how other students will benefit when you share your experience with them. 

Community Engagement

Another popular new essay topic is community engagement: Colleges seem particularly interested in students who are active in their communities and seek not just to succeed personally, but make a broader impact on society. This has been true for years, but many schools are now introducing essays on this topic (some mandatory). Here are some examples:

Tell us about a community that you have been part of where your participation helped to change or shape the community for the better. (Emory) 
Reflect on a social or community issue that deeply resonates with you. Why is it important to you, and how have you been involved in addressing or raising awareness about it? (Boston University)

We recommend approaching this topic with a personal touch. Reflect on community issues that have touched you or someone close to you—for example, issues facing particular racial and cultural communities, genders, or sexual orientations. This gives you an opportunity to not just recap a service or activism activity, but also share a bit about your personal life outside of school and extracurriculars. 

Don’t be afraid to define “social or community issue” broadly. Many students will focus on communities related to racial, cultural, or sexual identities, but workplaces, school clubs, religious congregations, towns, geographic regions, and families are also communities. You can also think bigger—issues like environmental sustainability affect the entire global community, and this is also a valid way to approach a community prompt. Having a story that’s interesting, original, and deeply reflective is the key to succeeding on these prompts—and that’s possible with any community.

With so many schools changing their requirements, this is a tumultuous year for college admissions, with many unknowns. However, one thing is certain: Essays will be more important than ever as schools stop looking at factors like SAT scores, race, and legacy status.

At College Choice Counseling®, our counselors and tutors are here to help you with college counseling , college essay and application help , test prep tutoring , and academic subject tutoring .

Reach out to us to discuss how we can help your essay shine!

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Top 25 Essay Topics for 2024

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Wow, 2023, was another challenging year for many parts of the world, but let’s all put our optimistic goggles on for 2024 and explore some great topics to write about for an essay sure to engage and inspire your students.

Writing an essay can be a daunting task for both teachers and students in terms of creating and crafting a high-quality essay,  and finally editing and grading them.

It seems as though we may have overlooked one of the toughest steps in writing an essay and that is actually selecting appropriate interesting essay topics for your students.

Thankfully we have compiled a list of 25 fun essay topics for 2024 that might just make that process a little easier.  Enjoy.  And remember to add any other great suggestions in the comment section below.

If you are still struggling with the essay writing process and need further guidance be sure to check out our definitive guide to writing a great essay. 

FREE interesting essay topics FOR STUDENTS

essay topics | Screenshot 2021 08 25 at 19 58 00 Top 25 Essay topics for 2021 — Literacy Ideas | Top 25 Essay Topics for 2024 | literacyideas.com

FOR STUDENTS NEEDING A VISUAL PROMPT TO WRITE A GREAT ESSAY

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ESSAY TOPICS YOUR STUDENTS WILL LOVE TO WRITE ABOUT

  • Zoos are sometimes seen as necessary but not poor alternatives to a natural environment. Discuss some of the arguments for and/or against keeping animals in zoos.
  • Imagine that your teacher wants to teach a new subject for the next few weeks. Your teacher will take suggestions, and then let the students vote on the new subject. What subject should your class choose? Write an essay to support your choice and to persuade the other students to vote for your choice.
  • Are actors and professional athletes paid too much?
  • Should teachers have to wear uniforms or have a dress code?
  • Since the invention of nuclear weapons we have had a long period of GLOBAL peace and stability. Are nuclear weapons global peacemakers or killing devices?
  • Should boys and girls be in separate classes?
  • Is the death penalty effective?
  • To what extent is the use of animals in scientific research acceptable?
  • What age is appropriate for dating?
  • Pretend you woke up one day and there were no rules. People could suddenly do whatever they wanted! Explain what the world would be like. Use your imagination!
  • Should student’s textbooks be replaced by notebook computers?
  • Should students be allowed to have cell phones in elementary and high schools?
  • Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations?
  • Should money be spent on space exploration?
  • Is fashion important?
  • Are we too dependent on computers?
  • If you had the opportunity to bring any person — past or present, fictional or nonfictional — to a place that is special to you (your hometown or country, a favorite location, etc.), who would you bring and why? Tell us what you would share with that person
  • Most high level jobs are done by men. Should the government encourage a certain percentage of these jobs to be reserved for women?
  • Should students be allowed to grade their teachers?
  • In your opinion what factors contribute to a good movie?
  • The destruction of the world’s forests is inevitable as our need for land and food grows. Do you agree?
  • Many parents give their children certain chores or tasks to do at home. Should children have to do chores or tasks at home? Be sure to explain why you think it is a good idea or a bad idea. Include examples to support your reasons.
  • Should the voting age be lowered to thirteen?
  • Should the government place a tax on junk food and fatty snacks?
  • Should more be done to protect and preserve endangered animals?

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Latest 50+ IELTS Academic Essay Topics in 2023

  • Updated On December 12, 2023
  • Published In IELTS Preparation 💻

The International English Language Testing System (IELTS) writing section is a 1-hour test that comprises two questions: task 1 and task 2, which assess your vocabulary, grammar, word count, collocations, and ability to construct complex sentences with moderation and without repetition. 

Table of Contents

To begin, it is pivotal to understand that the IELTS essay topics vary for IELTS Academic and IELTS General Training Tasks. In Task 1 of IELTS Academic, you must write a report on a graph, diagram or chart, whereas, for IELTS General Training Task 1, you must write a letter. Task 2 of the General and Academic modules is essay writing; while the topics for essays in both modules may differ, the essay writing strategy remains the same. 

Examiners use the following criteria to calculate Academic IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2 scores: Task Achievement, Task Response, Coherence, Grammatical Range and Accuracy, and Lexical Resource.

IELTS Academic Writing Section

The IELTS Academic Writing section consists of two tasks that must be completed in one hour: 

Writing Task 1

In Task 1, you are assigned a graph, visual information, table or chart, which you are required to describe in your own words. You must write a report in 150 words, accurately describing what the information in the graph or picture represents. The IELTS writing task 1 marking criteria accounts for 33% of the total IELTS writing evaluation score, and you should try to finish this part in 20 minutes or less because IELTS writing task 2 is more difficult and will take at least 40 minutes to complete.

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Latest 50+ IELTS Academic Essay Topics in 2023

Writing Task 2

 IELTS writing task 2 marking criteria has a 66% weightage, where you must complete a 250-word essay in 40 minutes. Candidates must respond to a problem, a point of view, or an argument in this task, with a curated response. The essay’s content should be written with perfect grammar and focused solely on the topic. As task 2 holds more weight, candidates should devote significant time to it and ensure a properly curated essay for a good band score. 

Let us now review some fundamentals of IELTS essay structure that you can apply to this task. A typical writing piece includes an introduction, the main body consisting of a few paragraphs, and a conclusion. In the introduction, you should write the context of your issue and a thesis statement representing the main idea of your text. The central section of your essay will discuss various facts and arguments that support or oppose the thesis statement. Finally, restate the thesis statement, bolstering it with new details from the main body. 

Latest 50+ IELTS Academic Essay Topics in 2023

Here’s a list of the latest IELTS essay topics and sample questions to help you efficiently prepare for task 2 of the IELTS Writing section.

Latest IELTS Essay Topics for 2022

IELTS essay writing topics are usually based on current events and world affairs. You will find a series of essay writing topics for IELTS in the following listicles. Also, one of the most effective ways to prepare for answering essays in the Writing section of IELTS is to work on the sample essay questions. The topic categories and essay writing samples to help students looking for the latest IELTS essay topics are stated below:

Environment

  • Environmental Crisis: One of the most common topics in IELTS is the environment essay IELTS band 9. Many students, however, do not see the need to prepare for this because it is one of the most specific topics resulting in a loss of marks. 

Click here for the Environmental Crisis essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Global Warming: It is common for IELTS speaking and writing sections to include questions about broad discussion topics, such as climate change, the greenhouse effect, global warming, and deforestation.

Click here for the Global Warming essay format, sample and answers for practice.

  • Sustainable Energy: If you are unfamiliar with the framework and concepts of an essay, it can be a daunting task. All of the sentences must be related and formed in such a way that they provide a clear view and information. You may be penalised if you veer off-topic while writing your essay. Sustainable energy and nuclear power topics are debated topics; hence practising them will give you an edge over your peers. 

Click here for the Sustainable Energy essay structure, sample and answers for practice.

  • Fossil Fuels: The IELTS essay topics for writing task 2 are usually based on common themes frequently discussed in the average aspirant’s daily life. One such theme is the use of renewable energy sources in place of nonrenewable resources such as fossil fuels.

Click here for the Fossil Fuels essay sample and answers for practice.

Personality

  • Importance of First Impression:  IELTS examiners have a short attention span and read hundreds of essays daily. Hence, it is pivotal for you to get the start right and make a good first impression in your First Impression is Important IELTS essay.

Click here for the Personality essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Hobbies: ‘Hobbies’ is a common theme in both the IELTS Writing Task 2 and the Speaking section. This is a simple, mark-fetching topic with few challenges for students taking the exam.

Click here for the Hobbies essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Fashion: Fashion is a recurring topic with global themes and one of the best topics to practise your public speaking skills.

Click here for the Fashion essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Importance of Leisure Activities and School Values: The IELTS Essay on Education is one of the most challenging tasks, with unpredictable questions in the exam. These education essay topics, like the Importance of leisure activities, are opinion-driven and assess students’ ability to express their knowledge and skills thoughtfully.

Click here for the Education essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Government and Society: As an IELTS exam candidate, you should review as many common topics for Writing Task 2 as possible. One such common IELTS test theme is government and society, with which you should be well-acquainted. 

Click here for the Government and Society essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Ideal Society: Candidates should practise sample questions and answers for the Ideal Society IELTS essay to gain a firm grasp on writing and vocabulary and improve their overall band score.

Click here for the Ideal Society essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Social Media: Social media essays are a popular topic in IELTS writing task 2. For a social media IELTS essay band 9 and similar topics, the most straightforward approach is maintaining the proper word count and being aware of various approaches to the topic.

Click here for the Social Media essay sample and answers for practice.

Business & Global Consumerism

  • International Trade: Over the years, one of the topics covered in the IELTS exam has been global business. Your answer for such topics should contain everything; your responses, solutions, arguments, reasons, opinions, and evidence are critical to answering the question.

Click here for the International Trade essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Management and Leadership: In any organisation, leadership and management are critical roles. Your essay for such topics should always be pertinent to the question.

Click here for the Management and Leadership essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Foreign Languages: Foreign languages and language barriers are recurring themes in the IELTS writing task 2. Express your own opinions on such topics. 

Click here for the Culture essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Sports and children: Sport is a recurring theme, and the essay content should not deviate from the main points at any point in the essay.

Click here for the Sports essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Covid impact: The topics of IELTS Writing task 2 are usually drawn from current events worldwide, making Covid-19 an anticipated topic. 

Click here for the Covid 19 essay sample and answers for practice.

  • Obesity: Overweight essays are among the most common topics in IELTS writing task 2. Obesity, recent trends in health among children and adults, and other similar topics may also be discussed in relation to overweight.

Click here for the Health essay sample and answers for practice.

Types of IELTS Essays

IELTS essay writing topics are usually classified under various sections. You can expect essays in the IELTS exam from any of the following types:

Opinion Essays

In this essay category, you must discuss your opinion on the given topic. Naturally, the best way to score high in such essays is to have prior knowledge of common topics that are popular in the IELTS exam. 

Sample Questions:

  • Most teenagers today own a smartphone. Provide your opinion to discuss the advantages and disadvantages.
  • Crime novels and TV series have become quite popular in recent years. What is your opinion about these crime dramas?
  • Developing nations often require international assistance. Many believe that this assistance should be monetary, while some think practical help and advice would be more beneficial. Discuss both these views along with your opinion.
  • Many consider automobiles to be the biggest source of pollution in urban areas, while some believe industries are responsible for it. Explain both views and provide your opinion.
  • Many people believe individuals involved with creative arts should be financially supported by the government. Some others believe they should find separate resources. Discuss each of the views and give your opinion.
  • Some believe success in life comes from hard work, dedication, and motivation. While many believe success depends on other important factors like money and appearance. Discuss both views and provide your opinion. 
  • Many think that governments should fund programs in search of life on other planets. However, others believe governments should focus on unresolved issues on the planet. Provide your opinion and discuss both views.

You can also check out this detailed guide on Opinion Essays to learn the appropriate structure for maximum scores!

Discussion Essays

In the case of discussion essays, the candidates need to put forward an explanation for or against any given topic. Such essays are the most common to appear in the IELTS exam. 

Sample Questions: 

  • Many believe living in big cities comes with more advantages than residing in the countryside. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • The shopping habits of people depend more on their age group than on any other factors. Do you agree or disagree with this? 
  • More and more children and minors are becoming overweight in developed nations. This is a major problem for most wealthy countries. Explain the causes and impacts of this issue.
  • The internet is a great invention that brings a host of advantages for the world population. However, there are several issues in terms of security and control of personal data. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • Advertising prevents the originality in people and makes them look the same and do the same. Do you agree or disagree with this?
  • Parents today often tend to organise extra classes on weekends or even after school. Do you believe this is at all useful? Or do you think the education provided in school is sufficient?
  • Some people believe that capital punishment should be done away with. Do you agree or disagree with this?

We have covered valuable tips & tricks to attempt Discussion Essays that can come in handy in your exam.

Solution Essays

For solution essays, you will have to provide a solution to a particular issue. At times, questions might be provided as to why a specific issue has occurred, and candidates have to provide their opinion on the answer.

  • The massive movement of people from agricultural areas to cities in search of employment can lead to serious problems in both places. What are the problems, and how can these be solved? 

Check out our sample question and answer on Solution Essays for a more thorough explanation.

Advantage or Disadvantage Essays

In this type of essay, students have to write about a particular topic’s positive and negative sides. Such essays test your argument construction skills and how well you can use English to communicate your views as clearly and coherently as possible. 

  • International tourism has greatly benefited many places. However, there have been major concerns about its impact on the local environment and inhabitants. Do the negative impacts of international tourism outweigh the benefits?
  • Some countries have recently passed laws to restrict daily working hours of employees. Explain whether this will have a positive or negative impact.
  • More and more people today are visiting extreme places such as Antarctica or the Sahara desert. What are the advantages or disadvantages of such travels?
  • Social media is gradually replacing in-person face-to-face contact with many people worldwide. Do the benefits of social media outweigh the disadvantages? 

Use the sample questions from the Advantage/Disadvantage Essay type to practise your writing skills.

Direct Question Essays

For this type of essay, the topics will be provided as direct questions, which students have to answer based on their experiences and thoughts.

  • Shopping used to be a routine domestic task in the past. However, today, it has become more of a hobby. Is this a positive trend?

You can get more information on these rare essay-type questions on our  Direct question essay structure blog.

Preparation Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Many students believe they don’t need to prepare much because they speak English reasonably well. Well, the IELTS exam is not that easy. In fact, even native English speakers may find the test difficult. As a result, candidates should prepare for this section rigorously and methodically and start early preparation.

  • Begin your IELTS preparations at least 6 months before your intended test date, and ensure to devote some time daily to all 4 sections.
  • Choose writing topics for both tasks, especially writing task 2, and try to write about them daily. Time yourself; remember that you must complete both tasks in one hour.
  •  Spend significant time learning new vocabulary and brushing up on your grammatical skills. Following that is structured thinking, allowing you to convey your ideas logically. While writing, pay close attention to lucidity, logic, and clarity.
  • You should expand your ideas because the IELTS writing task 2 could cover any topic. Go through all the resources like magazines, books, and online materials to expand your knowledge and vocabulary. Additionally, practice as many mock tests as possible. 

How to Answer Task 2 Essays in IELTS Writing Section?

Students can employ the following steps to successfully enhance their ability to answer essays in the Writing section:

Step 1: Read and Understand the Question

The first step to nailing task 2 essays is to read and understand the question carefully. Most of the time, candidates answer the question without understanding what it demands. 

Candidates should carefully analyse the question, identify the question type and try to identify the keywords. Finally, they should clearly understand the instructions and then attempt to answer.

Step 2: Plan the Answer

Once students have understood the question, they need to plan the structure of the answer. This will allow candidates to organise their ideas and produce a clear and coherent response. 

Step 3: Write a Solid Introduction 

The introduction of the essay should give an idea of what the essay is all about. Make sure to write an appropriate introduction conveying the gist of the essay.

Step 4: Carefully Curate the Main Body

The main body is the essential part of the essay, where you must provide the necessary details. State your points accordingly and substantiate them with explanations, examples, and other relevant data. Once done, you need to give a proper conclusion.

Tips for IELTS Writing Task 2

Candidates can use the following tips to ace their IELTS Writing test:

  • Make sure to find answers outside the box.
  • The Writing section is a 60 minutes test with two questions. One should work on time management skills to answer both questions comfortably within the stipulated time frame. 
  • Try to connect the provided topic with reality and current affairs as much as possible.
  • Make sure to avoid writing in a single paragraph. Try to break down the sections wherever required and learn to establish links between each paragraph. 

Although IELTS is a difficult test to master, one can achieve a good score with systematic and consistent preparation. If you require assistance in acing your IELTS Writing Task 1 and 2, our LeapScholar experts will provide the necessary guidance, tips, and tricks to help you pass your IELTS test with flying colours. If you are planning to prepare for the essay task in the Writing section, you can go through this comprehensive guide to get an idea about the latest IELTS essay topics. You can prepare for the essay task accordingly with the help of sample essay topics and questions provided in the above sections. 

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IELTS Discussion Essay Sample Questions

Below is a list of IELTS discussion essay sample questions for IELTS writing task 2. These are also known as two sided essays.

Discussion Essay Tips

  • identify both sides
  • find supporting points for both side
  • only give your opinion if the task asks for it
  • use discussion essay language
  • follow a safe discussion essay model

Discussion Essay Questions

Some people think that environmental problems should be solved on a global scale while others believe it is better to deal with them nationally. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
All parents want the best opportunities for their children. There are some people who think that schools should teach children skills but others think having a range of subjects is better for a children’s future. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
There seems to be an increasing number of serious crimes committed each year. While some think the best way is to use the death penalty as a deterrent, many people believe that other measures will be needed. Discuss both sides.
Some people think that getting a degree from university is the best way to guarantee a good job, others believe that it would be better to go straight into work and get experience instead. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Some people think that exercise is the key to health while others feel that having a balanced diet is more important. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
It is thought by some that its is better to live in a city while others  believe that life is better in the countryside. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.
Some people think that the internet has brought people closer together while others think that people and communities are become more isolated. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Other IELTS Essay Questions

  • Opinion Essay Questions
  • Solution Essay Questions
  • Direct Questions Essay Titles
  • Advantage Disadvantage Essay Questions
  • All Essay Questions by Topic

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