In the growing popularity of the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) exam, Writing Task 2 stands as an important assessment of one's ability to articulate ideas, construct coherent arguments, and communicate effectively through the written word. As you start on this journey, you are confronted with a diverse array of subjects, themes, and prompts, each challenging you to prove your language proficiency and analytical skills. Let’s explore the common topics that often come up in your IELTS Writing test essays.
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Common IELTS Writing Task 2 topics
While the specific question for Writing Task 2 IELTS academic topics remains uncertain, it is noteworthy that there are recurring themes that frequently appear in sample practice questions. Here is the following compilation of commonly asked Writing Task 2 topics:
1. Education
Education is a subject that relates with a vast majority of IELTS candidates, making it a common theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. The range of questions within this domain can include various aspects, from the dynamics within the classroom to the structure of the curriculum.
Example question
Many feel that the common educational system of teachers and students in a classroom will be replaced by the year 2050.
Do you agree with this view? Give your opinion
Education should be free to all people and should be paid for and managed by the government.
Do you agree or disagree with this statement?
2. Health
Health is another frequent theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting the escalating complexity of healthcare systems and the growing preoccupation with health and wellness across diverse nations. This prominence is underscored by the diversity of perspectives and approaches to personal healthcare and well-being.
Example question
Doctors recommend that older people exercise regularly. However, many of them do not get enough exercise.
What are the reasons?
What can be done to encourage them to exercise more?
Healthcare costs are increasing, and many governments are finding it difficult to balance their healthcare budget.
Should citizens be responsible for their health with private health insurance, or should the government provide free healthcare for all?
Discuss your viewpoint on this issue
3. Technology
In our contemporary world, technology has a profound influence on numerous factors of our daily existence, with far-reaching implications for both individuals and society at large. This common topic is notably prevalent in a range of Task 2 questions, where technology is the main idea.
Example question
Nowadays, children watch a lot of TV and play video games. However, some think that these activities are not beneficial for a child’s mental health.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Modern technology now allows rapid and uncontrolled access to information in many countries. This is a danger to our societies.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
4. Government expenditure
The government funds impact on the lives of every citizen within a nation, thus many people have strong opinions and impassioned debates. In the context of Writing Task 2, questions often cover government spending, including a diverse array of topics for the test.
Example question
Governments should lower arts budgets to allocate more money to education.
Do you agree with this view?
Some believe governments should spend more money on improving roads and highways, while some think money should be spent improving public transportation, such as buses, trains, and subways.
Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.
5. Environment concerns
Environmental issues affect the whole world and everyone in it. That's why they often come up as topics in Writing Task 2.
Example question
Some feel that it is impossible for a country to be economically progressive and environmentally friendly at the same time. Others disagree with this view.
Discuss both points of view and give your opinion.
Water pollution has become an increasing problem over the past few decades.
What causes water pollution?
How can we prevent this problem?
6. Sociology
The study of people and their behaviour in various situations often take centre stage in numerous questions. This is why sociology is a frequently explored subject in the IELTS writing section.
Example question
Many parents put a lot of pressure on their children to succeed.
To what extent do you agree?
Most societies are based on rules and laws. If individuals were free to do whatever they wanted, society could not function.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Effective strategies to score high in your IELTS Writing Task 2
Now that you've familiarised yourself with several common topics, let's explore some strategies to boost your confidence in addressing any of these subjects:
Stay updated with the news: These topics frequently feature in news stories and articles. Reading the news regularly can offer valuable insights into each subject and help you know the commonly used vocabulary associated with them.
Build topic-specific vocabulary: By immersing yourself in news articles, you can identify the recurring terms and phrases related to each topic. Take notes on this vocabulary and practice its application to improve your writing skills. When working on Task 2 essays, try to include this specialised vocabulary in the appropriate context and across various question types.
Practice writing on varied themes: While this list doesn't include all potential topics, it provides a solid starting point. Explore common questions within these domains and engage in writing exercises. This practice not only aids in familiarising you with Task 2 essay composition but also facilitates the use of advanced, topic-specific language.
By practicing these strategies, you can strengthen your preparedness to approach a diverse array of subjects in IELTS Writing Task 2 topics. Hope this blog helps you to take your first step to prepare well for your IELTS Writing test.
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