part of its exhibitions.
On the other hand, some people argue that museums should focus on education. The aim of any
exhibition should be to teach visitors something that they did not previously know.
Usually this means that the history behind the museum’s exhibits needs to be explained, and this can be
done in various ways. Some museums employ professional guides to talk to their visitors, while other
museums offer headsets so that visitors can listen to detailed commentary about the exhibition. In this
way, museums can play an important role in teaching people about history, culture, science and many
other aspects of life.
In conclusion, it seems to me that a good museum should be able to offer an interesting, enjoyable and
educational experience so that people can have fun and learn something at the same time.
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31.
Living alone
In some countries, many more people are choosing to live alone nowadays than in the past.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
In recent years it has become far more normal for people to live alone, particularly in large cities in the
developed world. In my opinion, this trend could have both positive and negative consequences in equal
measure.
The rise in one-person households can be seen as positive for both personal and broader economic
reasons. On an individual level, people who choose to live alone may become more independent and
self-reliant than those who live with family members. A young adult who lives alone, for example, will
need to learn to cook, clean, pay bills and manage his or her budget, all of which are valuable life skills;
an increase in the number of such individuals can certainly be seen as a positive development. From an
economic perspective, the trend towards living alone will result in greater demand for housing. This is
likely to benefit the construction industry, estate agents and a whole host of other companies that rely
on homeowners to buy their products or services.
However, the personal and economic arguments given above can be considered from the opposite
angle. Firstly, rather than the positive feeling of increased independence, people who live alone may
experience feelings of loneliness, isolation and worry. They miss out on the emotional support and daily
conversation that family or flatmates can provide, and they must bear the weight of all household bills
and responsibilities; in this sense, perhaps the trend towards living alone is a negative one. Secondly,
from the financial point of view, a rise in demand for housing is likely to push up property prices and
rents. While this may benefit some businesses, the general population, including those who live alone,
will be faced with rising living costs.
In conclusion, the increase in one-person households will have both beneficial and detrimental effects on
individuals and on the economy.
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32.
Living alone or in small families
In many countries today, people in cities either live alone or in small family units, rather than in
large, extended family groups. Is this a positive or negative trend?
It is true that cities are seeing a rise in smaller families and one-person households, while the extended
family is becoming a rarity. In my opinion, this is a negative development.
As families become smaller, the traditional family support network is disappearing, and this can have a
negative impact on children as they grow up. In a nuclear family or single- parent household, childcare
becomes an expensive and stressful part of daily life. Without the help of grandparents or aunts and
uncles, busy parents must rely on babysitters, nannies and after-school clubs to take care of younger
children, while older children may be left alone after school and during holidays. The absence of adult
family members can mean that friends, television and the Internet become the primary influences on
children’s behaviour. It is no surprise that the decline of the extended family has been linked to a rise in
psychological and behavioural problems amongst young people.
The trend towards people living alone is perhaps even more damaging because of the psychological
effects of reduced human interaction. Individuals who live on their own have nobody to talk to in
person, so they cannot share problems or discuss the highs and lows of daily life. They forgo the
constant stimulation and hustle and bustle of a large family, and are left to their own devices for
extended periods of time. The lack of human contact in the home is necessarily replaced by passive
distractions, such as television, video games, online chat rooms or Internet surfing. This type of
existence is associated with boredom, loneliness, and feelings of isolation or even alienation, all of
which are factors that are known to increase the risk of mental illness.
In conclusion, I believe that individuals thrive when they are part of larger family groups, and so it is
worrying that many people are choosing to live alone or in such small family units.
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33.
Video games
Some people regard video games as harmless fun, or even as a useful educational tool. Others,
however, believe that videos games are having an adverse effect on the people who play them.
In your opinion, do the drawbacks of video games outweigh the benefits?
Many people, and children in particular, enjoy playing computer games. While I accept that these games
can sometimes have a positive effect on the user, I believe that they are more likely to have a harmful
impact.
On the one hand, video games can be both entertaining and educational. Users, or gamers, are
transported into virtual worlds which are often more exciting and engaging than real- life pastimes.
From an educational perspective, these games encourage imagination and creativity, as well as
concentration, logical thinking and problem solving, all of which are useful skills outside the gaming
context. Furthermore, it has been shown that computer simulation games can improve users’ motor
skills and help to prepare them for real-world tasks, such as flying a plane.
However, I would argue that these benefits are outweighed by the drawbacks. Gaming can be highly
addictive because users are constantly given scores, new targets and frequent rewards to keep them
playing. Many children now spend hours each day trying to progress through the levels of a game or to
get a higher score than their friends. This type of addiction can have effects ranging from lack of sleep to
problems at school, when homework is sacrificed for a few more hours on the computer or console. The
rise in obesity in recent years has also been linked in part to the sedentary lifestyle and lack of exercise
that often accompany gaming addiction.
In conclusion, it seems to me that the potential dangers of video games are more significant than the
possible benefits.
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34.
Credit cards
Nowadays it is easy to apply for and be given a credit card. However, some people experience
problems when they are not be able to pay their debts back.
In your opinion, do the advantages of credit cards outweigh the disadvantages?
It is all too easy to obtain a credit card and then to run up debts which are difficult to repay. In my
opinion, the disadvantages of credit cards far outweigh the advantages.
Many people consider only the benefits of owning a credit card. It is true that a credit card gives you
access to money and the facility to pay it back later, like a loan. This could be useful for emergencies or
something expensive, like a holiday. In addition, having a credit card is more secure than carrying
money around with you. If you lose your wallet or purse, or if you are mugged in the street, a quick
phone call to the bank means that the card will be instantly refused if anyone tries to use it.
On the other hand, credit cards encourage people to spend money they do not have. I would never have a
credit card for this reason. Debts can build up and leave people in real financial difficulties. When
people cannot pay their debts back, everyone suffers: those in debt may lose their homes, the banks lose
money, and the whole economy suffers. The enticing message of ‘spend today, pay tomorrow’ should
not seduce US into embracing this philosophy. As my mother used to say: it will end in tears.
In conclusion, listen to the advice of the older generation. Do not be tempted by the ease of using a credit
card, because it may result in mounting debts which cannot be paid back.
(Peter Walton)
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35.
Online courses
Some universities now offer their courses on the Internet so that people can study online.
Is this a positive or negative development?
It is true that online courses are becoming a common feature of university education. Although there
are some drawbacks of Internet-based learning, I would argue that there are far more benefits.
The main drawback of the trend towards online university courses is that there is less direct
interaction. Students may not have the opportunity to engage face-to-face with their teachers, and will
instead have to rely on written forms of communication. Similarly, students who study online do not
come into direct contact with each other, and this could have a negative impact on peer support,
discussion and exchange of ideas. For example, whereas students on traditional courses can attend
seminars and even discuss their subjects over coffee after lessons, online learners are restricted to
chatting through website forum areas. These learners may also lack the motivation and element of
competition that face-to-face group work brings.
Despite the negatives mentioned above, I believe that online university courses are a positive
development for various reasons. Firstly, they allow learners to study in a flexible way, meaning that
they can work whenever and wherever is convenient, and they can cover the material at their own pace.
Secondly, the cost of a university education can be greatly reduced, while revenues for institutions may
increase as more students can be taught. Finally, online learning offers open access to anybody who is
willing to study, regardless of age, location, ability and background. For example, my uncle, who is 65
years old, has recently enrolled on an online MBA course in a different country, which would have been
impossible in the days before Internet-based education.
In conclusion, while I recognise the possible disadvantages of online learning, I consider it to be a
positive development overall.
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36.
Life expectancy
In the developed world, average life expectancy is increasing. What problems will this cause for
individuals and society?
Suggest some measures that could be taken to reduce the impact of ageing populations.
It is true that people in industrialised nations can expect to live longer than ever before. Although there
will undoubtedly be some negative consequences of this trend, societies can take steps to mitigate these
potential problems.
As people live longer and the populations of developed countries grow older, several related problems
can be anticipated. The main issue is that there will obviously be more people of retirement age who
will be eligible to receive a pension. The proportion of younger, working adults will be smaller, and
governments will therefore receive less money in taxes in relation to the size of the population. In other
words, an ageing population will mean a greater tax burden for working adults. Further pressures will
include a rise in the demand for healthcare, and the fact young adults will increasingly have to look after
their elderly relatives.
There are several actions that governments could take to solve the problems described above. Firstly, a
simple solution would be to increase the retirement age for working adults, perhaps from 65 to 70.
Nowadays, people of this age tend to be healthy enough to continue a productive working life. A second
measure would be for governments to encourage immigration in order to increase the number of
working adults who pay taxes. Finally, money from national budgets will need to be taken from other
areas and spent on vital healthcare, accommodation and transport facilities for the rising numbers of
older citizens.
In conclusion, various measures can be taken to tackle the problems that are certain to arise as the
populations of countries grow older.
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37.
Environmental problems
Explain some of the ways in which humans are damaging the environment. What can
governments do to address these problems?
What can individual people do?
Humans are responsible for a variety of environmental problems, but we can also take steps to reduce
the damage that we are causing to the planet. This essay will discuss environmental problems and the
measures that governments and individuals can take to address these problems.
Two of the biggest threats to the environment are air pollution and waste. Gas emissions from factories
and exhaust fumes from vehicles lead to global warming, which may have a devastating effect on the
planet in the future. As the human population increases, we are also producing ever greater quantities
of waste, which contaminates the earth and pollutes rivers and oceans.
Governments could certainly make more effort to reduce air pollution. They could introduce laws to
limit emissions from factories or to force companies to use renewable energy from solar, wind or water
power. They could also impose ‘green taxes’ on drivers and airline companies. In this way, people would
be encouraged to use public transport and to take fewer flights abroad, therefore reducing emissions.
Individuals should also take responsibility for the impact they have on the environment. They can take
public transport rather than driving, choose products with less packaging, and recycle as much as
possible. Most supermarkets now provide reusable bags for shoppers as well as ‘banks’ for recycling
glass, plastic and paper in their car parks. By reusing and recycling, we can help to reduce waste.
In conclusion, both national governments and individuals must play their part in looking after the
environment.
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38.
Foreign films
Many people prefer to watch foreign films rather than locally produced films. Why could this be?
Should governments give more financial support to local film industries?
It is true that foreign films are more popular in many countries than domestically produced films. There
could be several reasons why this is the case, and I believe that governments should promote local film-
making by subsidising the industry.
There are various reasons why many people find foreign films more enjoyable than the films produced
in their own countries. Firstly, the established film industries in certain countries have huge budgets for
action, special effects and to shoot scenes in spectacular locations. Hollywood blockbusters like ‘Avatar’
or the James Bond films are examples of such productions, and their global appeal is undeniable.
Another reason why these big- budget films are so successful is that they often star the most famous
actors and actresses, and they are made by the most accomplished producers and directors. The poor
quality, low-budget filmmaking in many countries suffers in comparison.
In my view, governments should support local film industries financially. In every country, there may be
talented amateur film-makers who just need to be given the opportunity to prove themselves. To
compete with big-budget productions from overseas, these people need money to pay for film crews,
actors and a host of other costs related to producing high-quality films. If governments did help with
these costs, they would see an increase in employment in the film industry, income from film sales, and
perhaps even a rise in tourist numbers. New Zealand, for example, has seen an increase in tourism
related to the 'Lord of the Rings' films, which were partly funded by government subsidies.
In conclusion, I believe that increased financial support could help to raise the quality of locally made
films and allow them to compete with the foreign productions that currently dominate the market.
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39.Parental roles
These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children while mothers go out to
work.
What could be the reasons for this?
Do you think it is a positive or a negative development?
It is true that men are increasingly likely to take on the role of househusband, while more women than
ever are the breadwinners in their families. There could be several reasons for this, and I consider it to
be a very positive trend.
In recent years, parents have had to adapt to various changes in our societies. Equal rights movements
have made great progress, and it has become normal for women to gain qualifications and pursue a
career. It has also become socially acceptable for men to stay at home and look after their children. At
the same time, the rising cost of living has meant that both marriage partners usually need to work and
save money before starting a family.
Therefore, when couples have children, they may decide who works and who stays at home depending
on the personal preference of each partner, or based on which partner earns the most money.
In my view, the changes described above should be seen as progress. We should be happy to live in a
society in which men and women have equal opportunities, and in which women are not put under
pressure to sacrifice their careers. Equally, it seems only fair that men should be free to leave their jobs
in order to assume childcare responsibilities if this is what they wish to do. Couples should be left to
make their own decisions about which parental role each partner takes, according to their particular
circumstances and needs.
In conclusion, the changing roles of men and women in the family are a result of wider changes in
society, and I believe that these developments are desirable.
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40.
Happiness
Happiness is considered very important in life. Why is it difficult to define?
What factors are important in achieving happiness?
It is no doubt true that the majority of people would like to be happy in their lives. While the personal
nature of happiness makes it difficult to describe, there do seem to be some common needs that we all
share with regard to experiencing or achieving happiness.
Happiness is difficult to define because it means something different to each individual person. Nobody
can fully understand or experience another person’s feelings, and we all have our own particular
passions from which we take pleasure. Some people, for example, derive a sense of satisfaction from
earning money or achieving success, whereas for others, health and family are much more important. At
the same time, a range of other feelings, from excitement to peacefulness, may be associated with the
idea of happiness, and the same person may therefore feel happy in a variety of different ways.
Although it seems almost impossible to give a precise definition of happiness, most people would agree
that there are some basic preconditions to achieving it. Firstly, it is hard for a person to be happy if he or
she does not have a safe place to live and enough food to eat.
Our basic survival needs must surely be met before we can lead a pleasant life. Secondly, the greatest
joy in life is usually found in shared experiences with family and friends, and it is rare to find a person
who is content to live in complete isolation. Other key factors could be individual freedom and a sense
of purpose in life.
In conclusion, happiness is difficult to define because it is particular to each individual, but I believe that
our basic needs for shelter, food and company need to be fulfilled before we can experience it.
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41.
Economic progress
Economic progress is often used to measure a country's success. However, some people believe
that other factors are more important.
What other factors should also be considered when measuring a country's success? Do you think
one factor is more important than others?
The relative success of different countries is usually defined in economic terms. There are several other
factos, apart from the economy, that could be used to assess a country, and in my opinion education is
the most important of all.
Standards of education, health and individual human rights should certainly be considered when
measuring a country’s status. A good education system is vital for the development of any nation, with
schools, colleges and universities bearing the responsibility for the quality of future generations of
workers. Healthcare provision is also an indicator of the standard of living within a country, and this
can be measured by looking at average life expectancy rates or availability of medical services. Finally,
human rights and levels of equality could be taken into account. For example, a country in which
women do not have the same opportunities as men might be considered less successful than a country
with better gender equality.
In my view, a country’s education system should be seen as the most important indicator of its success
and level of development. This is because education has a considerable effect on the other two factors
mentioned above. It affects people’s health in the sense that doctors and nurses need to be trained, and
scientists need to be educated to the highest level before they can carry out medical research. It also
affects the economy in the sense that a well- educated workforce will allow a variety of companies and
industries to flourish, leading to trade with other countries, and increased wealth.
In conclusion, nations can be assessed and compared in a variety of ways, but I would argue that the
standard of a country’s education system is the best measure of its success.
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42.
The roles of music
There are many different types of music in the world today. Why do we need music?
Is the traditional music of a country more important than the international music that is heard
everywhere nowadays?
It is true that a rich variety of musical styles can be found around the world. Music is a vital part of all
human cultures for a range of reasons, and I would argue that traditional music is more important than
modern, international music.
Music is something that accompanies all of us throughout our lives. As children, we are taught songs by
our parents and teachers as a means of learning language, or simply as a form of enjoyment. Children
delight in singing with others, and it would appear that the act of singing in a group creates a connection
between participants, regardless of their age.
Later in life, people’s musical preferences develop, and we come to see our favourite songs as part of our
life stories. Music both expresses and arouses emotions in a way that words alone cannot. In short, it is
difficult to imagine life without it.
In my opinion, traditional music should be valued over the international music that has become so
popular. International pop music is often catchy and fun, but it is essentially a commercial product that
is marketed and sold by business people. Traditional music, by contrast, expresses the culture, customs
and history of a country. Traditional styles, such as
...(example)..., connect us to the past and form part of our cultural identity. It would be a real pity if pop
music became so predominant that these national styles disappeared.
In conclusion, music is a necessary part of human existence, and I believe that traditional music should
be given more importance than international music.
,
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43.
Technology versus people’s interaction
Nowadays the way many people interact with each other has changed because of technology.
In what ways has technology affected the types of relationships that people make? Has this been
a positive or negative development?
It is true that new technologies have had an influence on communication between people. Technology
has affected relationships in various ways, and in my opinion there are both positive and negative
effects.
Technology has had an impact on relationships in business, education and social life. Firstly, telephones
and the Internet allow business people in different countries to interact without ever meeting each
other. Secondly, services like Skype create new possibilities for relationships between students and
teachers. For example, a student can now take video lessons with a teacher in a different city or country.
Finally, many people use social networks, like Facebook, to make new friends and find people who
share common interests, and they interact through their computers rather than face to face.
On the one hand, these developments can be extremely positive. Cooperation between people in
different countries was much more difficult when communication was limited to written letters or
telegrams. Nowadays, interactions by email, phone or video are almost as good as face-to-face meetings,
and many of us benefit from these interactions, either in work or social contexts. On the other hand, the
availability of new communication technologies can also have the result of isolating people and
discouraging real interaction. For example, many young people choose to make friends online rather
than mixing with their peers in the real world, and these ‘virtual’ relationships are a poor substitute for
real friendships.
In conclusion, technology has certainly revolutionised communication between people, but not all of the
outcomes of this revolution have been positive.
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44.
Career path
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?
It is true that some people know from an early age what career they want to pursue, and they are happy
to spend the rest of their lives in the same profession. While I accept that this may suit many people, I
believe that others enjoy changing careers or seeking job satisfaction in different ways.
On the one hand, having a defined career path can certainly lead to a satisfying working life. Many
people decide as young children what they want to do as adults, and it gives them a sense of satisfaction
to work towards their goals and gradually achieve them. For example, many children dream of
becoming doctors, but to realise this ambition they need to gain the relevant qualifications and
undertake years of training. In my experience, very few people who have qualified as doctors choose to
change their career because they find their work so rewarding, and because they have invested so much
time and effort to reach their goal.
On the other hand, people find happiness in their working lives in different ways, Firstly, not everyone
dreams of doing a particular job, and it can be equally rewarding to try a variety of professions; starting
out on a completely new career path can be reinvigorating experience. Secondly, some people see their
jobs as simply a means of earning money, and they are happy if their salary is high enough to allow them
to enjoy life outside work.
Finally, job satisfaction is often the result of working conditions, rather than the career itself. For
example, a positive working atmosphere, enthusiastic colleagues, and an inspirational boss can make
working life much more satisfying, regardless of the profession.
In conclusion, it can certainly be satisfying to pursue a particular career for the while of one’s life, but
this is by no means the only route to fulfilment.
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45.Equality
In recent years, there has been growing interest in the relationship between equality and
personal achievement. Some people believe that individuals can achieve more in egalitarian
societies. Others believe that high levels of personal achievement are possible only if individuals
are free to succeed or fail according to their individual merits.
What is your view of the relationship between equality and personal success?
In my opinion, an egalitarian society is one in which everyone has the same rights and the same
opportunities. I completely agree that people can achieve more in this kind of society.
Education is an important factor with regard to personal success in life. I believe that all children should
have access to free schooling, and higher education should be either free or affordable for all those who
chose to pursue a university degree. In a society without free schooling or affordable higher education,
only children and young adults from wealthier families would have access to the best learning
opportunities, and they would therefore be better prepared for the job market. This kind of inequality
would ensure the success of some but harm the prospects of others.
I would argue that equal rights and opportunities are not in conflict with people’s freedom to succeed or
fail. In other words, equality does not mean that people lose their motivation to succeed, or that they are
not allowed to fail. On the contrary, I believe that most people would feel more motivated to work hard
and reach their potential if they thought that they lived in a fair society. Those who did not make the
same effort would know that they had wasted their opportunity. Inequality, on the other hand, would
be more likely to demotivate people because they would know that the odds of success were stacked in
favour of those from privileged backgrounds.
In conclusion, it seems to me that there is a positive relationship between equality and personal success.
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46.
Genetic engineering
Genetic engineering is an important issue in society today. Some people think that it will
improve people’s lives in many ways. Others feel that it may be a threat to life on earth. Discuss
both these views and give your own opinion.
It is true that genetic engineering is a key area of modern scientific research, with broad implications
for all human societies. While I accept that this field of technology may have its dangers, I believe that
the benefits of genetic engineering outweigh the drawbacks.
The negative implications of genetic engineering are often discussed in terms of two key areas, which
are food production and the cloning of humans. Genetically modified crops are already being grown, and
people are concerned that they may damage whole ecosystems as foods become resistant to diseases
and natural predators. But perhaps even more worrying is the possibility that humans could be
modified or cloned. Some people imagine a world in which cloned humans are used to fight wars or to
provide body part replacements.
Although perhaps not a threat to life on earth, the implications of such practices would be
unprecedented.
A more optimistic prediction, and one that I favour, is that humans will find ways to mitigate the risks
and use genetic technologies in a responsible way. From the food production perspective, genetic
engineering could be the solution to famine in developing countries, if, for instance, crops can be grown
more reliably in harsh conditions. From a medical perspective, scientists may use genetic engineering to
produce vaccines, to cure diseases, or to correct a genetic defect before a child is born. If properly
regulated, even cloning can be done in a way that improves lives. For example, the cloning of individual
organs, such as a heart or kidney, could be permitted for transplant purposes.
In conclusion, I am convinced that genetic engineering will have a positive impact on our lives, and that
people's fears will be unwarranted.
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47.
Choices
Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices. To what extent do you agree or
disagree with this statement?
It is often said that modern life presents us with an overwhelming number of choices. I completely agree
with this, and I believe that the Internet and globalisation are the two major factors involved.
It is undeniable that the Internet has led to a dramatic expansion in the number of choices that are
available to us. The number of online media options, for instance, is now almost endless. There are
countless websites offering entertainment, news, videos, on-demand TV and music streaming, many of
which are free. I would argue that this abundance of media leads to confusion on the part of the average
user, as we have to make so many decisions about the content that we consume. A personal example of
this trend would be the fact that I had a choice of just four TV channels when I was a child, whereas I
now have access to thousands of films and series through services like Netflix.
Alongside the influence of the Internet, globalisation is making the world smaller and compounding this
problem of too much choice. Cheap international flights have made overseas travel possible for millions
of people, but this also means that we are faced with a world of options when deciding where to go on
holiday or even where to live. We no longer have the limited but simple travel choices of our
grandparents’ generation. The same is true if we look at the increasing tendency for young people to
study abroad. While the opportunity for overseas study seems appealing, many students are confused
about where to go and which path to take.
In conclusion, we are faced with a huge number of options in most areas of life nowadays, and this is
often more bewildering than beneficial.
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48.
Artificial Intelligence
Some people believe that developments in the field of artificial intelligence will have a positive
impact on our lives in the near future. Others, by contrast, are worried that we are not prepared
for a world in which computers are more intelligent than humans. Discuss both of these views
and give your own opinion.
People seem to be either excited or worried about the future impact of artificial intelligence. Personally
I can understand the two opposing points of view; I am both fascinated by developments in artificial
intelligence and apprehensive about its possible negative effects.
On the one hand, the increasing intelligence of technology should bring some obvious benefits.
Machines are clearly able to do many jobs better than humans can, especially in areas that require high
levels of accuracy or calculations using large amounts of data. For example, robots are being developed
that can carry out surgical procedures with greater precision than a human doctor, and we already have
cars that use sensors and cameras to drive themselves. Such technologies can improve safety by
reducing the likelihood of human errors. It is easy to imagine how these developments, and many
others, will steadily improve our quality of life.
On the other hand, I share the concerns of people who believe that artificial intelligence may harm us if
we are not careful. In the short term, it is likely that we will see a rise in unemployment as workers in
various industries are replaced by machines or software programs. For example, self-driving vehicles
are expected to cause redundancies in driving jobs, such as lorry drivers, taxi drivers and bus drivers. In
the medium term, if intelligent technologies gradually take jobs away from humans, we may find that
people become deskilled and lose their sense of purpose in life. A longer term fear is that computers
become so intelligent that they begin to make decisions without human oversight and without regard
for our well-being.
In conclusion, while intelligent machines will no doubt improve our lives in many ways, the potential
risks of such technologies should not be ignored.
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49.True power of advertising
Today, the high sales of popular consumer goods reflect the power of advertising and not the real needs
of the society in which they are sold. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is true that we are increasingly surrounded by advertising by companies that want to sell us their
products. To some extent I agree that advertising has an impact on sales, but I would also argue that we
do need most of the goods that we buy.
Advertisements can certainly tempt people to buy products that they might not otherwise want. A good
example could be the mobile phone. Every year people can be seen queuing to buy the latest models,
even when they already have a perfectly good phone that does not need replacing. Perhaps it is the
influence of marketing that leads us to make these kinds of decisions; we want to stay up to date with
the latest fashions or own the newest high-status device. The high sales of the iPhone seem to support
this idea.
On the other hand, I believe that most people do not buy products because of the advertising alone.
There are other good reasons why we make these choices, and there must be some kind of need before
a person makes a purchase. New versions of products almost always have improved features that
buyers may want. A new car, for example, may have greatly improved safety features, or it may be more
economical to run, or it may pollute less. A new phone may allow the user to communicate more quickly
or effectively, thus enhancing their quality of life.
In conclusion, while advertising obviously influences our buying behaviour, I do not agree that people
make decisions that go against their real needs.
(261 words- written with a student)
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50.
Work-life balance
Many people try to balance work and other parts of their life. However, this is very difficult to do.
What are the problems associated with this? What is the best way to achieve a better balance?
People today are increasingly concerned with individual happiness and work-life balance. The main
problem for most people is that work takes up too much time and causes mental health issues and the
best way to achieve this balance is to work more efficiently.
The primary issues associated with work-life balance are the amount of time people must spend
working and how this impacts their mental health. Since the global financial crisis of 2008, the job
market around the world has become increasingly competitive. This means that old workers may get
pushed out of their jobs by younger graduates willing to work for less and that new graduates have to
put in enormous extra hours to catch up. The end result is more work, which eats away at a person’s
private life. Once your free time becomes restricted there are a variety of related mental health
problems that can appear. For example, someone who is overworked can suffer from excessive stress,
some forms of depression, and obesity because of the lack of time available to exercise. That is why
there has been a sharp rise in the last decade in these problems.
The best way for people to combat being overworked and get more time for their personal life is to
work more efficiently. In an ideal world, there would be ways to alleviate the burden that put less stress
on individuals but making the most of your time is a more pragmatic solution. For example,
smartphones allow people to get a lot of work done in what were previously wasted hours in the past.
You can send emails, make phone calls, and use productivity applications when waiting for the bus,
train, or standing in line. People will have to make the choice not to scroll through Facebook or read the
news but that is a small sacrifice to have some extra time at the end of the day to do their hobbies or
spend time with a loved one.
In conclusion, the problems associated with poor work-life balance are especially apparent because of
the current economic climate and the best solution is to find ways to maximise efficiency. If more
people changed their daily habits related to social media and using the internet, then they might be able
to find more worthwhile passions and not feel as though their life is passing them by.
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51.
Choices
Some people believe that nowadays we have too many choices. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or
knowledge. Write at least 250 words.
It is common nowadays to hear people decrying the number of choices people have relative to the past
and proclaiming the drawbacks of so many easily-available options in a variety of areas of life. While I
think that there is some truth in this, increased choice is ultimately a positive trend because it opens up
options outside the mainstream.
The main reason why increased choice is considered a negative development is it makes life more
complicated. Take for example the number of products people can choose from today. Supermarkets
are filled with different brands with hardly any meaningful differences. This can cause people to waste
time and energy making choices with little actual impact. This is also the case when it comes to online
streaming services like Netflix, Hulu and HBO. Not only do people have to spend time researching these
sites but once they make a choice they are limiting what they will be able to watch in the future. If they
decide to subscribe to all of them, suddenly they will be paying upwards of $40 a month for basic
viewing content. These are a couple of ways in which choice can take up time and make life more
complex.
Although choice introduces a level of complexity to life, the main benefit is that it opens up options for
people outside dominant cultural trends. The best example of this is the changes that have taken place
in the music industry over the last 20 years with the advent of iTunes and streaming services. In the
past, the big pop acts dominated the radio and album sales. Now the music scene is much more
fractured. This makes it more difficult for some artists but also opens up the possibility that you can
find a niche of music that you and some other people love. This has been replicated in other areas like
podcasting, painting, and film as well. People can find what interests them outside of what major
companies are trying to push. That is why increased choice is positive taken as a whole.
In conclusion, the drawbacks of increased choice do not outweigh the advantages gained by allowing
people to explore what interests them the most. In the future, this will continue and present challenges
but also allow for a more diverse cultural experience for rich and poor alike, all over the world.
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52.
Population & Young People
At the present time, the population of some countries includes a relatively large number of
young adults, compared with the number of older people. Do the advantage of this situation
outweigh the disadvantages?
The average age of the population for many nations around the world has been in decline in recent decades
creating a situation where young people have become the world’s largest demographic, particularly in
developing nations. Although there are decided drawbacks to this phenomenon related to expertise in the
workforce, it is still a positive development because it will lead to booming economies in the coming years.
The most frequently cited drawback to having a predominately young population is the lack of skilled workers in
many important industries. A great example of this can be seen in Vietnam, which has one of the youngest
populations in the world. Vietnam currently has very few leaders in important areas like engineering and
technology. When it came time for Ho Chi Minh city to build a subway system, there were not enough skilled
engineers to accomplish the feat. They had to hire a huge number of specialists from Japan and Thailand to
ensure the quality of the project. The potential engineers for this project are still in school in Vietnam or studying
abroad and it may be another decade before they are ready to design and execute large, complex infrastructure.
It is not uncommon for developing countries with young populations to require outside assistance for national
projects to the detriment of their own workers.
Despite this drawback, the advantage of a young population is that it brings many future benefits to a country and
is a key indicator of future economic prosperity. Japan famously has one of the oldest populations in the world
and this has led them into a deep economic recession over the last 20 years as it becomes increasingly apparent
that the nation will have to assume responsibilities related to healthcare and a dwindling workforce. Contrast
this with the so-called ‘Tiger Economies’ of Southeast Asia that include Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia and
Singapore. These countries have some of the youngest populations in the world, which, coupled with a growing
middle class and better education, means that they will enjoy upward economic growth for decades to come. The
middle class will expand because well-educated graduates will be able to get good jobs and this middle class will
become a consumer class that feeds the economy. Overall, this is why having a young population is desirable for
any nation.
In conclusion, I fully believe that a younger population indicates a country is going to be successful in the future.
The key element for all young populations is education and governments should focus on this in order to fully
exploit the benefits of their demographics.
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53.
Foreign languages
Living in a country where you have to speak a foreign language can cause serious social
problems, as well as practical problems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this
statement?
One of the biggest social and practical challenges that people living abroad face is the language barrier. I
believe that this can lead to very serious social problems in many countries but technology has made
the practical issues less relevant over the last several decades.
The main reason that having to speak a foreign language can cause social problems is through the
breakdown in understanding between people of different cultures. The most salient example of this is
in the United States where there has been an influx of Hispanic immigrants, especially along the
Southern border. These immigrants are typically able to integrate well if they learn English but those
that have not learned have provoked social problems and even violent reactions. Many English speaking
residents resent the immigrants failure to integrate and this has resulted in discriminatory practices
and widespread racism towards Hispanics. This in turn has caused many Hispanics to develop an
antipathy towards other residents and segregate themselves in homogeneous neighborhoods.
There are comparatively fewer practical problems caused by not knowing the language of the country
where you live because of the development of technology in general and smartphones in particular.
Computers have made it much easier to look up directions, find important information and get quick
translations. Smartphones have made this even easier. If someone doesn’t know the language of the
country where they live, they can still find restaurants to their liking on Facebook and get simple
directions through Google Maps.
They can even order food online without having to use another language at all. If they need to
communicate with someone who does not speak their language they can simply take out their phone
and use Google translate to slowly, but effectively, convey a message. The problems that not knowing
the language of the country where you live causes are therefore minimal and easily overcome.
In conclusion, I only partly agree with the statement in question. Not knowing a language when living
abroad can cause social unrest but pragmatic concerns have been mitigated by recent technology. In the
future, it will become even less important to know the language of the country where you live although
there is great potential for increased social unrest and heightened tensions in many parts of the world.
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54.Sporting events
Some people think that it is a waste of money for countries to host big sporting events like the
world cup, and that the money would be better spent on other things. However, others think that
hosting large sporting events has a clear, positive impact on a country.
There is fierce competition between nations to host major international sports events like the World
Cup or Olympics as it is a unique opportunity to boost the national reputation of the host nation. In spite
of its undeniable benefits, I believe that the costs are too great and therefore governments should
prioritise other key issues to better benefit their citizens.
On the one hand, becoming a host nation for global events such as the World Cup or the Olympics brings
a number of economic and infrastructural benefits. During these events, there is an influx of tourists
from all over the world who need places to stay, restaurants to eat in and traditional products to
purchase. The efforts made to cater to these tourists will remain long after they have gone. The cost of
renovating a hotel might pay for itself during the event and then begin turning a large profit in later
years. The other main area of development is related to the rapid expansion of quality infrastructure.
Nations will be forced to invest in new sports facilities like swimming pools and stadiums as well as
make renovations to pre-existing infrastructure like roads and airports. For example, China used the
Beijing Olympics as an opportunity to modernise old buildings and roads.
On the other hand, these competitions use up tremendous resources from the host nation for a
temporary competition. To ensure the success of these prestigious events, governments must waste a
large percentage of the nation budget in the years leading up to the competition, oftentimes in the
billions of dollars. The newly constructed facilities usually fall into disuse after each tournament. A
salient example of this is Brazil as many of the swimming pools and sports facilities that were used in
the 2014 Olympics are currently abandoned and becoming decrepit. Meanwhile, there are other
pressing issues that have been festering including the need for new schools for underprivileged
students and quality healthcare for the elderly population. If the government had prioritised these
issues the country would be in a better position and its citizens would have a higher standard of living.
To summarize, due to the exorbitant costs, I am of the belief that the government should not allocate
such a large percentage of its financial resources to hosting global events with negligible long-term
impact. Instead these events should be hosted in the same countries year after year so that the new
infrastructure pays for itself over time.
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55.
Traffic and housing
Traffic and housing problems in major cities could be solved by moving companies, factories and
their employees to the countryside. Do you agree or disagree?
Many people claim that moving companies, factories and their employees from cities to the countryside
might ameliorate some of the worst traffic and housing issues. I strongly believe that this is a suitable
solution for those two particular city problems.
Moving the facilities of major corporations to the countryside will reduce traffic problems by
encouraging more people to live in the countryside for their work. It is widely known that more people
live in cities today than ever before and this has caused terrible traffic. For example, in Beijing it is not
uncommon for gridlocked motorways to delay motorists for hours. Travelers depend on getting in to
Beijing for their livelihood but if their jobs were in the countryside, or a nearby suburb, they could live
outside the city and reduce traffic. This would have a major impact on overcrowded cities like Beijing
that lose billions of dollars a year because of time wasted in traffic jams, according to recent research.
Moving factories and employees to the countryside will also help to mitigate housing issues in cities. In
many developing countries, the rush of people from the country to the city has necessitated the
construction of massive skyscrapers. A lot of these underdeveloped cities such as Mexico City and Lagos
do not have the sophisticated infrastructure including efficient plumbing, clean water and trash
collection that is needed to service a concentrated population. By moving jobs and people to the
countryside, developing countries will have more time to improve their infrastructure to deal with
surging urban populations.
In conclusion, moving people to the countryside will help to reduce traffic and housing problems,
especially in developing countries. If more governments studied this closely and enacted laws to
encourage people to move, it would greatly improve the quality of life for everyone living in the city.
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56.
Museums and galleries 1
Museums and art galleries should focus on works that show the history and culture of their own
country rather than works of other parts of the world.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
SAMPLE ANSWER 1: MOSTLY DISAGREE
Many people claim that it is more important for museums to display work from the country where they
are located rather than draw from other places around the world. I partly agree that museums are a
valuable educational tool to learn about one’s own country but overall museums should aspire to
broaden people’s perspective rather than narrow and deepen it.
Proponents of museums mainly showcasing works from their own country often point out that they
help people connect with their country’s culture and history. Children all over the United States learn
about American history from their textbooks. They learn about the constitution, the founding fathers,
and the various wars of liberation America has fought.
However, if they go to a museum to see the actual historical documents from the period this will likely
have a more memorable impression. Seeing a famous work of art or historical document up close, they
may notice notice details that were not in their book and feel a more personal connection to their
country.
Although there is a strong argument to be made for museums specialising in this way, I feel it is more
important for people to gain a broader view of cultures around the world. Most people cannot afford to
travel abroad and even if they do, they are unlikely to experience another culture deeply as a tourist.
Museums are a great opportunity for people of all ages to learn about other countries. Someone visiting
the British Museum in London will see artifacts from every continent in the world without a plane
ticket. Over the years if they keep returning to the museum they will learn more and more.
Museums will inevitable show a mixture of works from their own country as well as other countries. In
my opinion, it is more important for people to take in the breadth of culture of the whole world rather
than just their country. If children start from a young age learning about the world they are likely to
grow up more tolerant.
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57.
Museums and galleries 2
Museums and art galleries should focus on works that show the history and culture of their own
country rather than works of other parts of the world.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
SAMPLE ANSWER 2: MOSTLY AGREE
There is natural debate around the issue of whether or not museums should be showcasing works
mainly from their own country or other countries. Although it is important to learn about other cultures
through museums, countries have the right and responsibility to preserve and maintain their own
cultural history.
Proponents of museums showing a variety of works from many different countries rightly argue that
people’s lives are enriched through all these different cultures. For example, Europe is a relatively small
area that packs in dozens of distinct national identities.
Someone going to a museum in a cosmopolitan city like Berlin is likely to find Italian Renaissance
paintings next to modernist Spanish sculpture as well as German works. This allows people to feel they
are travelling around the world and taking in a variety of viewpoints. Through this exposure to culture
they may come to better understand other nations and have greater insight into what connects and
differentiates countries from each other.
Despite the clear benefits of learning about other cultures, countries have the right to house the relics of
their own history. Many of the museums displaying works from other countries took them without
permission. For example, the British Museum’s collection was mainly sourced during the height of the
British Empire. Many nations have disputed the right of the museum to house their country’s artifacts
and some have been returned. It is only right that countries keep what was made in their country so
that they can educate their own people about their history. Anything that has been taken without
explicit permission should be returned, just as a thief is required to return what they have stolen if they
are caught.
I think that there is tremendous value in museums displaying works from other countries but it does not
override the basic right of nations to look after their own history. One way forward would be to
encourage museums to have frequent exchanges and temporary exhibitions.
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58.
Literature
Some people say that school children should be mainly taught about the literature (e.g fiction
and poetry) of their own country because it is more important than that of other countries.
To what extent do you agree?
Many think that it is more important to learn about the literature from one’s own country, rather than
other countries. I am in complete agreement with this viewpoint because of how literature can
contribute to both national understanding and individual identity.
The most fundamental reason that children should be exposed to literature from their own country is to
deepen their understanding. For example, young students in America study a common curriculum
including authors like Dr. Seuss, Shel Silverstein, and Harper Lee. The books from Dr. Seuss and Shel
Silverstein convey principles of individualism, creativity and entrepreneurship that are key to
understanding America’s history and present. To Kill a Mockingbird by Harper Lee is a good example of
a book focused on a period of racial segregation, that can help students to better understand recent
events around the Black Lives Matter movement. Learning about racism from a classic novel set in
America is more likely to likely engage, inform and stimulate a relevant response.
Another reason why students need to learn their national literature well is that it will help to shape
their personal identity at an impressionable age. Children will form their identity from a variety of
sources, including the literature of other countries. This is a positive development. But the main
influence should be from their own country so that they are a true representative of their nationality. A
Japanese child growing up abroad could return to Japan and feel like an outsider. One method of
countering this is to make sure they have a good grasp of poetry and fiction from Japan. From classical
poetry they will be influenced by Japan’s singular minimalist tradition. From the novels, they will learn
about the relationships between people and the differing levels of formality expected in Japanese
society. This will all contribute to making their identity more Japanese.
In conclusion, children will better understand and have their identity firmly shaped by the literature of
their home country. This is becoming increasingly important in a globalized world that threatens to blur
the distinctions between nationalities into a single mono- culture.
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59.
Buildings
When designing a building, the most important factor is the intended use of the building rather
than its outward appearance.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
When it comes to building design, architects often have to make compromises between form and
function. Many feel that the purpose of the building should dictate these decisions. I agree that how the
building will be used is a key factor, but I think that how it looks is just as important.
Those who argue that a building should be constructed according to its function are mainly thinking
about the people who will later use the building. If a building is unable to perform its most basic
functions, then it is undoubtedly a failed project. For example, if an architect is building a primary
school then they must consider parking areas, how cars will pick up and drop off children, where to put
the playground, access for people with disabilities, and that is just the area around the school. A
beautiful parking lot that only has room for a handful of cars is useless. Inside the school, they also need
classrooms that are large enough, hallways that do not get easily too crowded, a good number and
location of restrooms and many other pragmatic concerns. If the architect is overly focused on how the
school looks, then they may sacrifice ease of use and practicality.
However, the look of the building is also important because of the role of art in everyday life.
Architecture is often considered one of the original and purest forms of artistic expression. I am
reminded of a quote from Pablo Picasso who said ‘Art washes away from the soul the dust of everyday
life.’ Imagine a city filled with ugly, utilitarian structures like many Soviet-era buildings. These buildings
will not lift people’s spirits or encourage them to contemplate the intended message. Contrast this with
a city where architects have been given free rein to be artists. As long as the buildings are also
functional, you will find a city filled with beauty and provocation that enhances life for its inhabitants.
The outward appearance does not have to be beautiful, but it has a responsibility to contribute
something to enrich the lives of everyday people.
In conclusion, how a building works is equally as important as how that same building looks. Form
should not follow function but be fused together in order to add to the aesthetic dimension of a city. It is
undoubtedly more challenging, expensive and time- consuming to achieve this kind of balance, but it is
also worth the effort.
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60.
Plastic bags
Plastic shopping bags are used widely and caused many environmental problems. Some people
say they should be banned.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
No one would deny that the plastic bags used in supermarkets and shops have a negative effect on the
environment because they do not degrade and end up as litter in our cities or oceans. However, the
replacements for plastic bags also carry significant environmental risks. That is why I think plastic bags
should not be banned.
The main environmental side effect related to plastic bags is that they pollute both the land and water.
An insignificant percentage of people may reuse or recycle plastic bags, but most ultimately litter or
throw them in the trash. If they are thrown in the trash, plastic bags will wind up in the ever-increasing
number of landfills and contribute to soil pollution. The ones that are simply tossed in the street clog
drains in cities and eventually find their way to the sea and entangle marine life. This is why many feel
that plastic bags should be banned.
Despite the advantages of banning plastic bags, the solutions for plastic bags are worse than the original
problem. Most people who advocate banning plastic bags suggest paper bags (which are biodegradable)
or reusable bags that are typically made from cotton or plastic. Both of these replacements are flawed.
Paper bags require us to continue clearing forests and also carry a large carbon footprint. Reusable bags
are plagued by similar problems. Independent studies have shown that the production of cotton and
reusable plastic causes more harm to the environment than disposable plastic bags. Coupled with the
fact that reusable bags are more difficult to recycle, their overall effect on the environment is worse.
I do not think overly simplistic restrictions on plastic bags would have the desired positive effect.
Rather than thoughtlessly banning them, policy makers should come up with a policy that balances the
materials we use for bags in order to produce an overall positive impact on the environment.
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61.Big cities
Living in large cities today poses many problems for people. What are these problems? Should
governments encourage more people to live in smaller towns?
More and more people live in cities today than at any point in the past and this trend will likely continue
in the future. This has resulted in many problems including extreme overcrowding and governments
should take measures to make living outside cities more attractive.
There are a wide range of drawbacks associated with the rise of modern cities but one of the most
obvious issues is related to population density. The large number of people crammed into a relatively
small area has caused expensive housing, increased traffic and severe pollution. For example,
apartment prices in mega-cities like Tokyo and New York have soared to the point where only the
wealthiest inhabitants can afford decent living standards. Regardless of financial status, all city dwellers
have to deal with more and more traffic jams as the population increases while the area of cities remains
fixed. Finally, all these people living and travelling in one place puts a tremendous strain on the
environment and some cities, like Beijing in China, have become dangerously polluted.
In my opinion, governments have a duty to encourage citizens to move to more rural areas. If cities
continue to expand unabated then the above problems will only get worse. We might one day find
ourselves living in densely packed, heavily polluted cities that resemble scenes from a dystopian science
fiction film. In order to prevent this from happening, the government can give tax breaks to companies
that choose to locate offices and production facilities outside the city. This will provide more jobs for
people who are willing to live in the countryside.
In conclusion, the concerns related to overcrowding in cities can and should be somewhat countered by
governments incentivising living in rural areas. If this is done then we may still face problems related to
cities in the future, but at least they will not be as serious.
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62.
Online meetings
Recent research has shown that business meetings and training are increasingly taking place
online. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this?
Many businesses today choose to hold meetings and do training online, rather than in person. While
this has certain drawbacks related to interpersonal relationships, I still feel this is a positive trend
because of its positive impact on employees with families. In this essay, I will discuss both sides in
detail.
Conducting the majority of business meetings online has a potentially negative effect on the social
dynamics of a company. The preference for online communication sacrifices essential elements of
human interaction in the name of a more efficient, utilitarian process. When people sit in a room
together, for training or a meeting, they are more likely to form strong interpersonal bonds. They will
be able to see each other’s body language better and there is a good chance they may socialise in person
afterwards. For example, employees might go for drinks or even just have a private chat about the
meeting or training while still at work. This is much less likely to happen when people are working
from home or a remote location and using online tools like Skype to communicate.
Companies that choose to do more training and have more meetings online are making life more
convenient for their employees with families. At some point in their lives, most people must face the
challenge of working and having a family. If both the mother and father work, then one of them might
have to give up their job to stay home or they will have to hire an expensive caretaker to look after their
child during the day. If more meetings and training took place online, this could free up time for people
in certain jobs, such as IT workers, to work entirely from home and look after their children during the
day. They will still have to make time for the training and meetings but at least they won’t waste
valuable time commuting to the office.
The move towards increased online training and meetings may sacrifice some of the social aspects of
work but this is more than made up for by the convenience it allows working families. In many families
today, both the mother and father have to work to make ends meet and we should support any efforts
to relieve their financial and physical burdens.
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63.
Leadership
Some are of the opinion that people are naturally born as good leaders while others feel that
leadership skills can be learned.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
It is often said that important people are born with certain characteristics that enable them to become
great leaders. The alternative view is that leadership is a learnable quality.
Personally, I agree with the latter viewpoint because training and experience are more important than
innate ability in this situation.
It is somewhat true that many individuals are born with distinctive personal traits that allow them the
opportunity to become talented leaders. Leaders tend to be those who are charming and persuasive. In
contrast, those who lack of these characteristics may have a difficulty inspiring the belief and loyalty
that all leaders require and end up as followers rather than leaders. For instance, a salesman who often
fails to convince his clients to sign a deal may be dissuaded from becoming the sales team leader since
he does not believe that he has what it takes to be one. The more convincing salesmen are more likely to
rise to that role.
However, there are also people who assert that leadership skills can actually be achieved through proper
training and effort. That is why there is a larger number of institutes offering leadership training
programmes helping those who want to learn the skills required to be a leader. Public speaking is one of
many skills these schools can teach.
Individuals who are shy and lack confidence can find their feet in the leadership battle by learning the
essence of good body language, pronunciation, and other elements of good public speaking. This will in
turn make them better leaders.
In conclusion, although some traits related to leadership are likely inherited there is tremendous room
for people to grow into positions of responsibility if they apply themselves fully to learning the skills
and personal characteristics of great leaders.
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64.
Climate change
Climate change is a phenomenon that affects countries all over the world. Many people strongly
believe that it is the responsibility of individuals, rather than corporations and governments, to
deal with this problem.
To what extent do you agree?
Climate change is a very real danger that threatens not only our lives but also the quality of life of future
generations. To combat this I strongly disagree that individuals need to take responsibility because
governments, in cooperation with private companies have both a greater responsibility and capacity in
this matter.
Climate change cannot simply be the responsibility of private citizens because they do not have the
ability to affect large systemic changes in the way that governments in conjunction with corporations
do. People can only contribute in small ways; for every person who recycles there are several people
who do not and there is no certain way to change this.
Governments, on the other hand, can enact legislation requiring both individuals and large corporations
to abide by certain restrictions. Laws for corporations are the real solution as they contribute by far the
most to climate change and by reducing how much waste produced and how they treat that waste,
climate change can be seriously countered.
The second reason governments should be responsible for combating climate change is that
governments are responsible for global problems while individuals should only have to deal with local
and personal problems. A person should only concern themselves with their job and personal life
because that is the extent of their responsibility. Governments are responsible for various things related
to their citizens including security, health care in some cases, and education. Included in security is the
environment because it impacts citizen’s well-being; therefore this falls under the remit of what
governmental responsibility.
Individuals will never be able to have the effect government will and it is not their responsibility at any
rate. In my opinion, governments, by taking measures to rein in corporate and private waste are taking
up their rightful burden.
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65.
History versus science
Some people say history is one the most important school subjects. Other people think that, in
today’s world, subjects like science and technology are more important than history. Discuss
both these views and give your own opinion.
There are many people who have called into question the importance in today’s world of subjects like
history, which do not have an immediately discernible impact on most future careers. While I think that
history should still be mandatory, more practical subjects related to technology and the arts are more
needed in our evolving world.
The main reason that students should study some history in school is that it provides crucial insights
into nations around the world that serve as springboards for later political beliefs. In America, students
learn about the American Revolution, the constitution and the founding fathers periodically from
elementary to high school. They learn about why the war started (so that the colonies could tax and
govern themselves) as well as the great figures from history like George Washington, Thomas Jefferson,
and Benjamin Franklin.
Some of the principles students learn include the ideas of American exceptionalism, life, liberty and the
pursuit of happiness, and the responsibility of citizens to vote in a representative democracy. Later in
life, most people will lean liberal or conservative but still hold the same basic convictions about
individual liberty and responsibility. By knowing the context in which these ideas emerged students can
become adults with well-informed political beliefs and it will be more difficult for unscrupulous
politicians to make false assertions about the past.
Although history should still be taught, the practical sciences and arts should be prioritised because
these are more likely to have an impact on a person’s future career. Very few students will end up with
careers in history, as historians or professors, but a large percentage will work in the arts and especially
the sciences. For example, in Vietnam the most popular university majors are engineering, finance, and
graphic design. If schools emphasise maths at school then this will better prepare them to make
calculations in complex engineering projects or when working at a bank or accountancy firm. Even
learning how to draw and use colors in art class is more useful for students because of the high demand
for graphic designers on websites and advertisements. Countries that devote more of their educational
budget towards these practical subjects will give students a head start on a potential future career and
increase their chances of having a higher standard of living.
It is clear that in this case a moderate approach is best. School administrators should not remove history
from the timetable but in my opinion they should devote more time and resources to the teaching of
subjects related to technology and the arts. This will become ever more important as the tech industry
continues to dominate the future job market.
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66.
Agriculture versus hunger
In spite of the advances made in agriculture, many people around the world still go hungry. Why
is this the case? What can be done about this problem?
Recent years have witnessed tremendous developments in agricultural science yet every day people all
over the world continue to suffer and even die from hunger. In my opinion, this is because innovations
rarely impact the developing world and the best solution for it is to direct humanitarian funding
towards these advances.
The main cause of more advanced agricultural methods not reaching the people who need it the most is
that the developing world has trouble implementing these methods. There are a number of reasons for
this ranging from limited financial resources to poor existing infrastructure to political instability,
depending on the country in question. One example of this would be in many African nations, where
malnourishment has historically been highest. Countries like the Congo have seen revolution after
revolution over the last several decades, which has effectively destabilised the entire country. The
universities where students would learn about changes in agriculture are frequently shut down or
destroyed. The young people who would become agricultural scientists end up drawn into the conflict
as soldiers or victims. Long-term economic neglect means that the government has very limited ability
to subsidise farming. These problems are present to varying degrees in countries around the world and
offer one possible explanation for the continued prevalence of hunger.
The solution that I believe would be most effective is directing humanitarian funds previously focused
on food aid towards education and agricultural infrastructure. Food aid is a notoriously poor solution
because it only offers an immediate solution and warlords often exploit it to support their continued
mistreatment of their people. It hurts more than it helps. However, there would be better long-term
effects if international organisations and governments redirected that money into helping build better
farms, provide more modern equipment, and sending qualified professions to train people in need.
There is a TedTalk by a young man in Kenya who built his own windmill out of old bicycle parts and by
reading a book in the local library. It is large enough to power his own house and he was seeking
financing for a larger one that would power irrigation channels for the entire village. If more people like
him can be found or trained then this will have an impact that lasts for decades and is relatively
impervious to the factors preventing agricultural advances from taking root in developing countries.
In conclusion, developing companies face myriad problems that hinder their ability to take advantage of
newer agricultural models and we should direct more funding to helping these countries learn more
about new farming methods. This is likely to be an important issue in the world as the gap between rich
and poor, develop and undeveloped widens while technological progress continues its indifferent march
forward.
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67.
Newspaper versus the Internet
Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn news. However, others believe that
they can learn news better through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion
Newspapers have been considered the most reliable news source for more than a century but in recent
decades newer forms of media have supplanted their influence. Some feel that these new sources of
news are better but in my opinion, newspapers are by far better because of the amount of time and
research that writers put into their articles.
The main reason that many people prefer newer media outlets is that they deliver news more quickly
across a variety of convenient platforms. The most notable example of this is online news. The vast
majority of people get their news from Facebook and other social media websites which aggregate
articles from various online publishers, including the online version of print newspapers in some cases.
The problem here is that websites are solely concerned with increasing traffic and getting news up as
fast as possible. It is a common occurrence for a website to publish news quickly in order to beat others
to the scoop before it has been properly verified or even thoughtfully analysed. The result is hordes of
people clicking on links to amuse themselves for a minute without casting a critical eye over the
veracity of the news. These articles are then shared online or by word of mouth and false information
spreads rapidly.
Despite the conveniences of online media, the news that is printed in newspapers has been better
researched and verified in most cases. Newspapers frequently devote entire departments to long-term
investigative journalism. A standout example of this would be the Boston Globe’s years long
investigation into sexual abuse by the Catholic church. They carefully interviewed victims and put
together a convincing case which led to long-lasting reforms and convictions of some individuals. They
also published stories on the topic for over a year which allowed for detailed and thoughtful analysis of
the problem, suggestions for solutions, and articles on wider societal implications. This type of
reporting is anathema to the fervent pace of online media.
In conclusion, even though newspapers are a dying industry I think they are more informative and
trustworthy than the largely online institutions that are replacing them. This trend is irreversible and
will have consequences for the future of democracies around the world as people become less informed.
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68.
Age for driving
Some people believe that the best way to increase the road safety is to increase the minimum
legal age for driving cars. To what extent do you agree or disagree.
Many are of the opinion that raising the age at which people can get driving licenses is the best way to
make roads safer. Although this will help prevent some accidents due to inexperience, I strongly feel
that it is more important to focus on safer roads through improved urban planning.
The main justification that proponents of raising the age at which people can drive will often cite is the
number of accidents attributed to inexperience. In the USA, most teenagers get their driving permit
around age 16. There are a couple of factors that can lead a 16
year-old to cause more accidents than someone in their 20s. The first is that they simply do no have as
much road experience. They have only dealt with a limited number of experiences and are more likely
to make poor decisions at pivotal moments. The other reason is that many American teenagers begin
drinking alcohol around this age even though the legal age is 21. Teenagers are notoriously
irresponsible and they have not developed strategies for handling alcohol when driving. All people,
when drunk, are dangerous but it is especially dangerous if they are inexperienced in terms of both
alcohol and driving.
Even though these are valid points, I do no think they outweigh the number of accidents that poor
urban planning and infrastructure cause. There will always be other causes that include young drivers,
driving while under the influence and road rage but the only factor that plays a hand in nearly all
accidents relates to how the roads have been planned. Take the city of New Orleans for example. The
urban planners in New Orleans constructed the city with almost entirely one-way streets. This may
make it inconvenient at times but it has also resulted in one of the lowest accident rates in the USA. It
has also allowed for the construction of parallel streetcars that have also greatly reduced the number of
accidents. Cities around the world have replicated this approach by increasing the number of one-way
streets and working streetcars into the city plan and seen reciprocal declines in vehicular accidents.
I believe that urban planning, despite not being a well-publicized cause, is the main source of most
accidents around the world and raising the legal driving age would have little real impact. The more
cities that begin to focus their attention on the causes, rather than the symptoms, of accidents the safer
our roads will be for ourselves and future generations.
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69.
Fast public transport
Some people think that governments should invest mainly in making public transportation
faster while other think there are more important priorities (cost, the environment). Discuss
both views and give your own opinion.
While many are of the opinion that the most important factor in public transport is speed, others value
areas such as cost and the environment. In my opinion, although there are a number of key
considerations, speed is by far the most important.
Two of the most commonly addressed areas of public transport are cost and the environment. In
Vietnam, the quality of the public transport buses is very low and they produce a lot of air pollution.
However, they are very cheap and this allows the residents who need them the most, typically students
and low-wage earners, to afford them. In an ideal world the government would have cheap buses that
produce little exhaust, but cost and environmental concerns will always be in conflict. In developing
countries, it makes sense to emphasise the expense of tickets while developed countries have the
wealth and responsibility to try to better balance these competing policy influences.
Although these are worthwhile considerations, speed of transport should be the main rationale as it has
a trickle down effect on the economy and quality of life of a country. For example, Japan has a famously
fast and efficient system of railways both inside cities and connecting provinces within the country. If
someone has a family, faster transport allows them to spend more time with their family both before
and after work. This can enhance the quality of life of working class people. It also means that they will
get to work faster, get more work done during the day and have more time to recuperate for the next
day. Over years and decades this has hastened Japan’s development into one of the world’s leading
economies.
In my opinion, cost and the environment are crucial for ordinary people and the future of our planet but
speed has a greater effect on people in both the short and long-term.
Governments that focus on faster public transport will reap the rewards for decades and be able to
reinvest that money in areas like the environment, education, and healthcare.
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70.
Sharing information
Some people believe that it is good to share as much information as possible in scientific
research, business, and the academic world. Others believe that some information is too
important or too valuable to be shared freely. Discuss both these views and give your own
opinion.
The question of how much information relevant to various areas of scientific and academic research
should be shared is becoming more and more important as the pace of technological innovation
quickens and the internet allows for instant collaboration. In my opinion, information is a valuable,
potentially dangerous asset and should only be shared freely in particular circumstances.
Advocates of freely sharing information rightly argue that collaboration leads to faster results. This
applies to scientists, who can help each by offering their individual research results, businesses, which
can work together as long as they are not competitors on advertising or product development, as well
as academics, who need fresh perspectives to push their work to higher plateaus. Take for example the
potential for sharing information in the business world. Google has built their successful advertising
business by working together with various companies and sharing information. Google collects a
variety of statistics related to users including their location and interests. This information is shared
with advertisers who can then better target ads for users. It allows the consumer to see more relevant
products and services and the companies advertising to target their audience more efficiently.
While there are decided advantages like the one mentioned above, information is still a valuable asset
that individuals and companies should safeguard. In a perfect world, we might expect people to openly
share everything they know but the social and economic constructions of our actual world make this a
naive proposition. One interesting example of this is from a recent news article about Elon Musk where
he explained why his rocket company SpaceX does not apply for patents on any new technology. He
reasoned that his main competitors are governments, not private companies. If his company discloses
its innovations then domestic and foreign governments can take advantage of the shared technology
and potentially disrupt his business. This is just one example of how sharing can prove damaging in a
capitalist society.
In conclusion, though sharing might be a valid standpoint in a perfect world, it is not feasible under
current global conditions. Instead of looking to increase sharing, governments should do more to
support innovative companies and researchers. This will have a larger overall impact.
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71.
Situation acceptance
Some people believe that it is best to accept a bad situation, such as an unsatisfactory job or
shortage of money. Others argue that it is better to try and improve such situations. Discuss both
these views and give your own opinion.
Many people find themselves in situations where they must either accept what life has given them or
find a way to move up in the world. In my opinion, although accepting your situation in life may be
pragmatic in some cases, it is still better to at least strive to improve your situation as it can usually be
bettered to some degree.
On the one hand, the vast majority of people are unable to drastically change their situation and
acceptance of this fact will make them feel more satisfied with their lives. The best example of this
would be those people living in dire economic conditions. Recent research puts the Democratic
Republic of Congo as one of the poorest nations on Earth, both due to a lack of developed infrastructure
and internal strife in recent years. For a person living in a small village, ravaged by war or famine, it
would be cruel to suggest that they should find a way to improve their lives when it might simply be
impossible. Instead, such people may feel they are better off accepting that they cannot make any
changes to their situation at the present moment and just focus on their own survival and that of their
family. These situations are rare but do exist around the world in various countries, particularly if they
are at war or experiencing a severe economic downturn.
On the other hand, few would dispute the fact that in even the most difficult situations people can make
their lives better through continued effort. Instances of people who worked hard and became successful
abound in both developed and developing nations. Some relevant examples of this are the postwar
situations of countries like Germany, Japan, and South Korea. All those countries were devastated by
war to greater and lesser degrees yet they are all currently economic powerhouses. In Japan, World
War 2 left their population depleted of workers, a deep national debt due to reparations and
infrastructure reduced to rubble. By not accepting their situation they were able to become leaders in
technology through notable companies like Sony, Nokia and Toyota. The efficacy of the individuals who
had to work hard to improve their lives is reflected in the overall progress of the country and should
serve as an example to all war-torn nations.
To conclude, there are very few situations where it would be advisable to simply accept an unhappy
situation because hard work over a long period will pay off to some degree in the vast majority of cases.
By having a more positive attitude it is also more likely that your efforts to make a better life will be
rewarded, while a more defeatist attitude is likely to reduce your chances to make changes in life.
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72.
Environmental Problems
Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular
species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental
problems. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Many are of the opinion that the risks for endangered plants and wildlife are the most severe
consequences of our worsening environment while others would argue that other problems are more
pressing. While I consider the impact of recurring natural disasters to be important, in my opinion the
loss of wildlife is the most serious threat to the environment.
The rise in recent catastrophic natural disasters has been strongly linked to climate change. Many
scientists have made the case that incremental rises in temperature, specifically involving the oceans,
has increased the frequency and potency of hurricanes, tsunamis, and blizzards. There are countless
instances of these from the last two decades but the tsunami affecting mainly Indonesia, Malaysia and
Thailand in 2004 is a particularly striking example. This was the largest natural disaster this century
and resulted in thousands of deaths, injuries and billions of dollars in damages, the effects of which set
these developing nations back economically for years. People lost their lives, homes, and livelihood in
many cases.
The main reason that many people including myself are so focused on plant and animal life is because of
the rising number of endangered animals in recent decades. One of the most well-known examples of
this is the often cited case of polar bears. Polar bears live mainly in the Arctic and recent melting of the
polar ice caps has resulted in reduced ice for polar bears to hunt on. Polar bears have become an
endangered species and it is often forecast that by 2100 they will be entirely extinct in the wild. Their
extinction will likely have a domino effect on the fragile ecosystems of the arctic and other endangered
animals like seals and narwhales. This is just one example of the impact of global warming on animals
and plants of our planet. Extinction is irreversible and there is no more lasting impression we can leave
than to deplete the world entirely of a species.
In my opinion, the loss of ecological diversity trumps any other environmental concerns. In order to
remedy this problem governments and individuals need to take serious steps to not only invest more in
conservation efforts for endangered animals but also work towards long term reforms related to fossil
fuels, carbon emissions and the other apparent catalysts for climate change.
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73.
Self-employed versus company
Nowadays many people choose to be self-employed, rather than to work for a company or
organisation. Why might this be the case? What could be the disadvantages of being self-
employed?
An increasing number of people today are opting to start their own companies instead of working for a
company mainly because of the increased support for young entrepreneurs. In my opinion, the main
disadvantages of not having an employer are lack of expertise and its overall effect on businesses.
The number of self-employed is related to young entrepreneurs and has its origin in widespread angel
investment across a variety of industries. One well-known example of this can be seen on the popular
show ‘Shark Tank,’ where a panel of investors and executives hear product pitches and compete to
purchase stakes in budding entrepreneurs’ businesses. This show has launched a number of successful
products by securing initial funding, which has led to a trickle down effect from this show: not only has
it turned specific dreams into realities but it also encourages viewers in general to be more ambitious
and has therefore been one of the main catalysts for the frenzy of self-run businesses popping up in
recent years.
Though there are undoubtedly positives to all these start-up companies, I think that the overall impact
is negative because it results in many poorly run businesses. For example, in recent years a number of
ride-sharing apps including Uber, Grab, Lyft, Be, Go-Viet and countless others have sprung up. The
established companies provide a functioning app with high-quality service to meet the growing
demands of this industry. However, the majority of small start-ups find themselves in over their heads
with apps that barely function and driver shortages that specialise in inconveniencing customers. It
would be better for the people starting these derivative businesses to either work in companies, gain
valuable experience, look for gaps in the market, and then develop develop worthy competitors or
simply be content to have a good job in a good company that they do not own.
In conclusion, I feel that the rising number of new companies has led to a cult of overconfidence. If more
people were satisfied working for others rather than pursuing unrealisable ambitions, this would likely
lead to better consumer products across the board as well as increased national economic prosperity.
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74.
Music
Some people say that music is a good way of bringing people of different cultures and ages
together. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Music has always been a key distinguisher of culture but many believe that it can also bridge cultural
gaps and differences in age. Though I think some people overstate the impact of music leveling the
differences between generations, I strongly believe that it brings people of different cultures together by
expressing universal sentiments.
The main reason that I believe music is not a particularly good unifier in terms of generational disparity
is that people tend to enjoy the music from their formative years and disdain whatever is currently
relevant. Though there are of course exceptions, most people would recognise the mostly accurate
stereotype of an old person complaining about the music that youths listen to nowadays. For example,
in America some of the most popular artists today include Kanye West, Taylor Swift, and Rihanna.
These artists differ greatly from past musicians. Kanye is a brash rapper with controversial opinions
whose music constantly shifts and redefines genre. Taylor Swift and Rihanna write sugary pop songs
that become ubiquitous in cafes and on the radio. Older people prefer what they used to listen to,
whether that be intricate melodies and insightful writing of The Beatles or the raw sincerity of old
school rap. The differences between the generations are reflected and augmented rather than mediated
due to the different personalities and styles of modern music.
Although music does little to alleviate generational barriers, it does help cultures relate through
universal, human perspectives. What I mean by this is that even though people may not understand
another culture they can still understand the messages of the music. One great example of this is the
music of Bob Marley. Bob Marley is from a small Carribbean country called Jamaica, a country whose
culture has become influential around the world. This is because he expressed universal feelings of love,
empathy, and positivity against the backdrop of a nation experiencing political and economic upheaval.
His resilience against this pulses through his infectious music and has translated across cultural divides.
An Asian person, who might not have any firsthand experience with different races or cultures, can still
identify with Bob Marley and enjoy his music. This connection based entirely on music brings together
people of disparate cultures through an emotional and intellectual bonding on common issues.
In conclusion, although music may actually do more to divide the young and old it definitely uses its
universality to bring together different cultures. It is especially important at a time when the world
appears to be more divided than ever that we find common ground to build cross-cultural relationships
upon.
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75.
Responsibility for health
Many people believe that every individual is responsible for his/her own healthy lifestyle.
Others believe that governments should take care of it. Discuss both these views and give your
own opinion.
There has been much recent policy advocacy related to what the proper role of governments in
healthcare should be. Although I believe governments have begun to treat this issue with the
seriousness it merits, the responsibility for taking care of one’s health should ultimately rest with
individuals as they are more likely to stick with habits that they themselves have cultivated.
Those who favour strong governmental intervention often point out the role of the state in forming
healthy eating habits through early intervention at public schools. In the United States, the vast majority
of students attend state schools and in recent years the government has been implementing new
policies aimed at curbing addiction to unhealthy foods. This means that they have reduced the total
intake of saturated fats in school lunches and drastically cut down on sugar not only in prepared
lunches but also in the ubiquitous vending machines placed around most schools. In the short term this
has led to improved health for students but its true effect will be over the next several decades when
these children grow up and are more likely to eschew fast food for the healthier alternatives now
opening up to meet the growing demands of an increasingly health- conscious nation.
While there are clear benefits to governmental action, individuals are better at regulating their own
behaviour in the long-term. People have always found ways to get around rules in order to satisfy their
most basic desires, including those related to food. No matter what steps governments take, people will
always crave unhealthy, delicious foods as our brains are hardwired to feel pleasure from saturated
fats, carbohydrates, and sugar. For example, even a country like France, which has imposed strict rules
over the food that children are served, is still facing an obesity crises. Therefore the only way for people
to consistently combat poor health is to develop the discipline on their own. Individuals who make the
choice to eat healthier are more likely to stick with this habit having worked out the reasons for
themselves, rather than simply following a rule imposed by their schools at the behest of the
government.
In conclusion, governments have a large role to play in public health but only individuals can take
control of their own lives and make decisions that will truly benefit them in the future. In this case, the
best solution is simply no solution. Standing back and allowing people to become more self-reliant will
not only have more long-lasting effects but will also empower individuals in various other areas of their
life to be more responsible.
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76.
Police and crime rates
Some countries are struggling with increases in crime rates. Some believe that having more
police on the streets is best way to reduce and combat crime. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?
Many countries today are grappling with the best ways to curb rising crime rates and some have
suggested that increased police presence on the streets is the optimal solution.
Although I think this would have a positive effect for obvious reasons, the best solution is more nuanced
and requires a deeper understanding of the sources underlying crime.
There is little doubt that employing greater numbers of police officers will have an adverse affect on
criminality. One of the best examples of this would be in New York City under Mayor Rudy Giuliani
during the late 1980s and early 90s. At that time, New York was a haven for criminals and many areas
of the city were deemed too dangerous by residents to safely live in or walk through at night. One of the
many measures that Giuliani used to reduce crime was significantly increasing the number of police
officers during his time in office. This led to a reciprocal decline in crime and made the tourist-heavy
neighbourhoods almost entirely safe and the rougher districts at least passably crime-free.
The above-mentioned measures were only effective because administrators also tackled the root causes
of crime. It is generally agreed upon that the principle causes of crime are related to education indirectly
and poverty more directly. If you look at countries with extremely low poverty and unemployment
rates, such as Japan, you will see correspondingly low rates of crime. In Japan, this begins with one of
the world’s most renowned educational systems. Students graduate from high school and university
with immediately employable skills and most are employed throughout their lifetimes. Since they have
money to afford a good standard of living there is little incentive for criminal behaviour and the crime
rate is among the lowest in the world.
In conclusion, the best way to reduce crime in the long-term is to invest more in education and the
economy to stimulate job growth and address the catalysts spurring on crime. Any government that is
serious about making their country a safer place must first take steps to improve their educational
system as that will have the largest impact on creating the stable jobs that discourage criminality in all
its forms.
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77.
Young people leaving home
Many parents encourage young people to leave home when they become older, while others
think they should stay at home with the family. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
It has become increasingly prevalent for young adults to leave home before getting married. In my
opinion, this is a positive trend taken as a whole because it fosters independence but it can have rare
debilitating financial drawbacks.
The main drawback to moving out early is losing a parental safety net that safeguards financial stability.
In large cities such as New York, real estate prices are so high that without a high-paying job you will
struggle to contend with rent, food, transportation costs, and allowances for leisure activities. It is even
possible that these hardships could prove overwhelming and pride may prevent your from going back
to your parents. These individuals might end up taking a job with a low salary or that is not their
passion.
The aforementioned drawbacks are the exceptions; the majority of people who move out are successful
because they become self-reliant. A standout example of this is the typical American university student.
Most students leave their parental home at 18 and never look back. These students take their first baby
steps towards looking after themselves by doing their own laundry, managing their finances to an
extent, and taking on campus employment. Once they graduate from university they will likely take
over their entire financial outlay. This means they must find a good job and spend more responsibly.
These qualities, of frugality and responsibility, will serve them well in their lives and increase their odds
of future success.
In conclusion, the majority benefit from the added responsibility that leaving home brings. To encourage
more people to move out parents should provide a degree of financial support when necessary but
focus moreso on fostering their children’s independence.
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78.
Throwaway society
In many countries people are living in a “throwaway society” where things are used for a short
time and thrown away.
What are the causes of this and what problems does it lead to?
The proliferation of single use products is a major concern for all countries. In my opinion, the main
cause of this is increased disposable income coupled with advances in technology and the main result of
this trend is environmental degradation.
The rise of single or limited use products comes from new technologies and people’s ability to afford
these items. A hundred years ago, it would not have been possible to cheaply produce plastic products
on a mass scale. The technological advances of the last hundred years have made these products
profitable for large companies like Walmart. Of course the advances in technology have only met
demand from a burgeoning global middle class.
People today do not have to use the same plates, dishes, and bags that previous generations would have
been more protective of; nowadays people can afford to buy and throw out various household items.
The main result of the overdependence on single use products is burning more fossil fuels which in turn
escalates climate change. Cheap plastic is made through a chemical process involving raw oil and is then
transported on ships or planes running on petrol before being carted on trucks to supermarkets. The
total accumulation of fossil fuel consumption is therefore massive. In the last half century this has
precipitated climate change leading to increases in the severity of natural disasters, further
endangerment of plant and animal species and dire warnings by climate scientists for the standard of
living of future generations.
In conclusion, the so-called ‘throwaway society’ is a result of economic and technological factors and is
taking a massive toll on the environment. More governments should seek to curb this problem by
instituting wide-reaching bans on single-use plastics like straws and bags.
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79.Smoking
The best way to prevent people from smoking is to impose high taxes on tobacco products. In
this way, people will be less likely to develop a long-term addiction to smoking.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Some have suggested that the best method of reducing the number of smokers is for governments to
raise taxes. Although there are economic disadvantages, I believe that this will have the greatest impact.
The economic disadvantage of increasing taxes on smoking is that it will hurt the large tobacco
industries in countries like the United States. In the USA, Phillip Morris, the largest tobacco company in
the world, provides thousands of jobs and pays large taxes on its revenue to prop up state and federal
budgets. If taxes on tobacco had their desired effect then many people would lose their jobs and
budgets would be slashed. This is a sacrifice that many might be willing to accept but that would be
nonetheless negative.
Despite the aforementioned drawbacks, raising the cost of smoking is the best way to reduce smoking.
A good example of this can be seen in a comparison of countries with little or no tax on tobacco
products with those with high taxes. Indonesia famously has a particularly high number of smokers and
the main reason for this is that the tobacco lobbies have blocked tax legislation, keeping the price of a
pack below a dollar. In many European countries, smoking is on the decline because few can justify
paying more than ten dollars for a pack of cigarettes.
In conclusion, although it might have a negative impact on the economy and jobs, raising taxes on
tobacco related goods will reduce smoking. If more governments embraced this approach, they would
reap future rewards in reduced spending for medicare.
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80.
Housing for the poor
Some believe that because everyone needs a place to live, governments should provide houses
for those who are too poor to afford their own.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many reformers are of the opinion that it is the responsibility of governments to provide public housing
for members of the public too poor to afford their own homes. In my opinion, although there are some
situations when this might be necessary, it is better to allow people the opportunity to pull themselves
out of poverty.
Those who support government assistance in housing programs point out the institutional shackles that
keep people in poverty. In the United States, there is a long, painful history concerning African
Americans that began with slavery, discrimination and still shows its impact in various more muted
forms of racism. These people have few chances to escape poverty and own their own homes because
they have difficulty getting a good education and then a job. If governments provide them with housing,
that frees up their money to go to the education of their children and can break the long chain of
poverty that has blighted their path in America.
Although the above-mentioned argument has its merits, in my opinion people who help themselves are
more likely to be able to maintain their success. Charity is a notoriously double edged sword because it
fosters dependence. Someone who is in poverty who works hard and finds and escape and manages to
own a home will develop reserves of willpower and determination that will serve them their entire life.
Their self-respect will also help them in their work and encourage them to hold onto their house,
regardless of obstacles. If the government simply gifts this person a house, they will be much less
inclined to take care of it and will not develop any of the qualities that will spell out their success in life
more generally.
In conclusion, people who are more self-reliant are more likely to be successful and hold onto their
homes. The role of government ought to be more subtle and include educational reforms aimed at
opening up opportunities that individuals can themselves seize.
Word count: 329
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81.
Studying abroad
Compared to the past, more people are now studying abroad because it is more convenient and
cheaper than before. Do you think this is beneficial to the foreign student’s home country? Will
this trend change much in the future?
Nowadays, there are more and more students choosing to study overseas due to a variety of benefits for
their own future life and career. From my perspective, I believe that this trend can also be beneficial to
the foreign student’s home country and will continue developing in the next few years because of these
benefits.
I think it is beneficial to the foreign student’s home country because after they finish studying, they may
choose to come back and contribute to their homeland. For example, Vietnamese Professor, Ngo Bao
Chau was announced by the 2010 International Congress of Mathematics as one of four mathematicians
to win the Fields Medal, which is the world’s most prestigious mathematics award. After returning to
Vietnam, he started to help and encourage aspiring Vietnamese from universities to study mathematics
further. He not only contributed directly to the burgeoning field of Vietnamese mathematics but also
continues to serve as aspirational example to students of the rewards of studying abroad and then
returning home.
In the future, I believe that this trend will continue as both foreign and domestic countries will support
students through scholarships. For example, in Vietnam it is common for students to apply for
scholarships to study in countries like the USA, the UK, Australia, France, and so on. These countries
have the means and are willing to support students from foreign countries because it enhances the
diversity of their campuses. Additionally, the government in Vietnam encourages studying abroad
through scholarships for underprivileged students. They do this because students who study abroad
typically return to Vietnam and help push forward economic development, as in the case of Ngo Bao
Chau.
In conclusion, I feel that there are clear advantages for the foreign student’s home country because of
their potential academic and economic contributions after coming back home. Developing nations in
particular should invest heavily in programs to send students abroad, besides funding their own
educational infrastructure, if they want to have the kind of secure foundation that will allow the country
to flourish for many years.
Word count: 340 (a bit high – aim for 300!)
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82.
Changing jobs
The job market today is very competitive and it is best to choose a career or field of study early in
order to get a good job later in life.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Today’s hyper-competitive job market encourages parents and educators to push specialization at
increasingly earlier ages. Although choosing a career early on is a safe option, it will not produce the
best results in my opinion.
The reason that opting in to a career from an early age has become so prevalent is that it affords people
a sense of security that is at least somewhat justified. In Vietnam, the vast majority of High School
graduates are pushed early by their parents into safe fields like finance and the sciences. There are a
number of hard skills required for these fields such as good mathematical acumen, industriousness, and
logical thinking. If students start to learn these skills at a very young age or beginning in High School
then they will have a head start on their peers that can continue through university into the job market.
This is the theory that guides specialization.
It is difficult to dispute the above logic, however, recent research has shown that having a breadth of
knowledge and experience is a much better predictor of future success. A recent book by David Epstein
titled ‘Range’ debunked the commonly held belief that early specialization is safer. In fact, the majority
of leaders in their fields experimented with a large number of subject areas and professions before
settling on one. The early specialisers were the exceptions and are therefore a poor model to imitate.
The core argument of that book is that experience in multiple fields helps you to make connections and
learn a diverse range of skills that you can later bring to bear on your chosen profession.
In conclusion, having a range of experience is more important than locking yourself into a field of study
early in order to enhance later career options. Universities ought to make a shift to adopt some of the
principles of liberal arts schools to better prepare graduates for an uncertain future world economy.
Word Count: 323
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83.
Animal testing
Some people say that it is acceptable to test medicine intended for people on animals. Others,
however, believe that it is not right to use animals in this research.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Many believe that using animals for scientific testing purposes is fundamentally immoral, while others
see it as a necessary evil. In my opinion, even though it is decidedly unethical, the overall impact on
human progress justifies its continuance.
Detractors of animal testing often point out that animals have rights. We would never condone this type
of testing on a human, even with one with a low IQ and it follows that we should treat animals with
some measure of respect. The strongest argument supporting this is the level of cruelty involved in
animal testing. Many drugs that are tested on animals have painful side-effects and the test subjects may
die slow, painful deaths. This is undeniably unjustifiable regarding testing in non-essential medical
fields such as cosmetics.
Despite the moral quagmire detailed above, I believe animal testing does enough to advance medical
testing to warrant its use. Some cursory research will reveal the importance of animal testing in fields
such as diabetic medicine, cancer research, experimental surgery, and stem cells. Testing insulin for
diabetics on dogs may be the most well-known example of this kind of impactful research. Many other
advances in medicine often attributed to animal testing have saved countless human lives to an extent
that would be impossible if researchers were working under the moral constraints of human test
subjects.
In conclusion, animal testing is the best way to make breakthroughs in medicine and should be strongly
encouraged. Governments should work with medical institutions to implement more medical testing on
animals across the board.
Word Count: 255
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84.
Ideal society
People have historically attempted to achieve a perfect society. However, it is difficult to decide
what a perfect society would be like. What would be the most important element of an ideal
society? What can normal people do to make society more perfect?
The best way to improve our society is a topic of understandable concern for all governments and
citizens. In my opinion, the key to this is increased tolerance of difference and people can take the
individual step of examining their own beliefs in order to not pass ingrained prejudices on to the next
generation.
The most momentous shifts in society in the last centuries have involved progress related to tolerance
of different types of people. The original pilgrims left England to found new colonies in order to have
religious freedom to worship as they wish. Racism and slavery in the 19th century is a direct result of
considering one group of people separate. The most recent example is the movement to be more
accepting of a variety of sexualities. These have all made society more perfect and their evolution and
nascent spread throughout the world will allow the greatest number of people to enjoy a full range of
freedom and opportunity.
To achieve the more open society mentioned above, individuals can closely evaluate their beliefs and
try to impart more tolerant values to the younger generation. A good example of this can be seen in the
embrace of gay marriage by many in the last decade. In the 20th century, it was political suicide to
support gay marriage. However, people began to question the rationale for denying this basic human
right. Now most schools and parents teach their children about alternative lifestyles and it is much
more common to see LGBT couples in popular culture. This is one step towards a utopian, inclusive
society free of prejudice.
In conclusion, the movement to accept more diverse elements of society is already underway. With
continued effort, it is reasonable to expect a generally positive attitude towards all people in the coming
years, though this progressivism will vary widely from country to country.
Word Count: 310
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85.
Prison versus Education
The most common solution for criminal behaviour is prison but many believe education is a
better method.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many feel that instead of locking up criminals, we could better reduce crime by tackling systemic
problems in our educational systems. In my opinion, although education is important, deterrence
remains the primary inhibitor of criminality.
Many see education as a better remedy as it holds long-term promise. The main cause of crime is
poverty and that can be linked directly to education. Take for example countries with strong
educational systems. In Singapore, which has one of the most well-regarded school systems in the
world, the majority of graduates can find well paid jobs and the crime rate is consequently among the
lowest globally. There is no cause to commit a crime if you have enough money to provide for yourself
and your family.
Despite the clear results education can bring about, deterrence remains the main reason why people do
not commit crimes. If there was no threat of prison, people would feel free to steal, murder or commit
whatever crime they choose. A good example of the effect of prison on crime is in countries with strict,
mandatory sentencing guidelines. Many Southeast Asian countries have imposed severe sentences on
drug related crimes to successfully curb drug trafficking and distribution. There is no substitute for the
clearcut logic engendered by the threat of prison.
To sum up, despite the admitted benefits of education, the deterring effect of prison prevents most
crime. Countries ought to invest in sustainable solutions such as education and economic reform while
not neglecting the irreplaceable role of incarceration.
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86.
Internet for culture learning
People today often use the internet to learn about the culture of other countries. This means that
it is not that important to travel to those countries.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
The fact that many people today use the internet to experience other countries means that it is no longer
as important to actually travel to those nations. In my opinion, though travel has its benefits, this is
largely true.
Proponents of travel often claim that real life experience trumps virtual experience. Compare, for
instance, the recent Google Museum project which catalogues collections from famous museums in high
resolution photos available to anyone with internet access. This is no doubt a positive development but
it pales in comparison to the experience of walking through the Louvre and seeing the brushstrokes up
close, going on a guided tour, and talking with other museum-goers. This holds true for a variety of
experiences that are enhanced by being physically present in the moment.
Although there are good reasons to continue to travel on occasion, the internet allows people to access
the majority of the experience remotely. The most salient example of this is the ubiquity of YouTube for
internet users around the world. A child from an impoverished background, who still has internet
access, probably cannot travel to other countries but they can watch travel documentaries, vlogs, and
archived television shows that show cultures around the world. The makers of these videos not only
bring their experience but also aggregate the most noteworthy events and individuals that even the
most adventurous traveller would have difficulty finding the time to locate.
To conclude, travelling still plays a role in life but the internet has largely replaced its primary
importance in life. There will come a time when the virtual world too fully overcomes the physical but
for the moment it is still beneficial.
Word Count: 280
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87.
Stress
Many pschologists recommend that the best way to relieve stress is to do nothing at all for a
period of time during the day.
Do you agree or disagree?
One of the most pressing issues for first world countries is how to reduce their stress levels and this has
led some psychologists to propose a daily period of rest. Although I think that daily rest would be
helpful, it is more important to take an active role in stress relief.
Proponents of a rest period suggest that taking a break has proven health benefits related to stress
reduction. It is very common in Latin American countries and some Southeast Asian countries to take
an afternoon ‘siesta’ or short nap before resuming work. Research has supported the myriad health
benefits related to this stress-free period. It lowers blood pressure, increases serotonin in the brain, and
aids memory function. Besides the statistics from studies that breaks reduce stress, there is also
anecdotal evidence that taking a break energises people in both the short and long term. Plowing on
without breaks, on the contrary, can lead to an increase in stress and has been linked to related health
problems.
Instead of taking a rest, I believe that joining a team sport will do more to relieve stress. Doctors and
scientists agree that exercise is the best way to cut down on stress overall. In most parts of the world,
football is the most common sport both to watch and participate in. Playing football reduces your stress
by releasing endorphins in the brain that make people happier, strengthening the heart to better
withstand stressful situations, and helping people to relax by working in a team towards a shared goal.
The teamwork aspect cannot be underestimated, and is integral to most sports, as it does more to
reduce stress and reset your body for a new day than any other activity.
To conclude, although taking a rest certainly helps reduce stress, the best way to unwind is to play a
sport. People should set aside time at least once a week to partake in team sporting activities.
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88.
Advertising - influences
Some people think that the news media has become much more influential in people’s lives
today and it is a negative development. Do you agree or disagree?
It is commonly held that the news has become an invasive force in people’s everyday lives. In my
opinion, I completely disagree with this viewpoint because the news contributes greatly to the decision
making process of discerning citizens.
Modern news media properly consumed improves its readership’s ability to make quality decisions
regarding their own interests. One standout example of this is the way that people follow political
issues. In democratic countries, it is difficult to argue that there is anything more important than
staying informed of political developments. When Americans learned about the harmful effects of global
warming on our environment they began to advocate, through the ballot box and general public
sentiment, for reforms. This has led to the election and overhaul of policies related to environmental
conservation and is the direct result of information gleaned from experts on the news.
Some rightly argue that the news is not always trustworthy. Individuals and organisations are always
attempting to twist the news to their advantage. A good example of this would be the recent rise of
online news. Online news goes up immediately and is therefore much more likely to contain mistakes
than news verified and published in newspapers.
Retractions in newspapers are rarely read and they are almost unheard of for online news, despite their
increasing frequency. This is a decided consequence of the way people consume news today but readers
can avoid this by only trusting reputable sources like The New York Times or the BBC and not naively
believing every article they happen across.
In conclusion, I believe that the merits of staying informed far outweigh any perceived drawbacks.
People should take the time to find reliable news sources and vet the articles most pertinent to them.
Word count: 291
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89.
Choices for children
Some people believe that allowing children to make their own choices on everyday matters (such
as food, clothes and entertainment) is likely to result in a society of individuals who only think
about their own wishes. Other people believe that it is important for children to make decisions
about matters that affect them.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
One common area of debate among parents is the extent to which children should be trusted to make
their own decisions and the potential impact this will have on their sense of responsibility. Although
decision-making skills will help in some ways, I believe parents should dictate choices for children in
order to make them more aware of others.
On the one hand, children who have been allowed to make their own choices will eventually develop a
keen sense of responsibilty. This can be best seen in the contrasting example of helicopter parents and
more liberal parents. Helicopter parents smother their children with attention and make the majority of
their decisions for them. Over time, these kids will likely become dependent on their parents. If your
parents always pick out your clothes then you never have to check weather forecasts, make choices
about what colours match or concern yourself with trends in fashion. Later in life, these kids will not
have developed any of these skills because of their parents. Contrast this with children who pick out
their own clothes; they will have to consider these factors carefully and it will make them more
responsible when it comes to shopping and taking care of their wardrobe.
On the other hand, I still believe that parents should make the majority of choices so that children will
be more responsible towards others. For example, some parents have made the logical and ethical
choice to be vegetarians and they force their children to do the same. This can have a positive effect not
only on their individual health but also on the environment. Moreover, it is a learning opportunity for
parents to teach their offspring about ethics. Parents can make the argument that industrial farming is
inhumane and animals should be treated with more respect. This may have a carry-over effect resulting
in their children growing up to be more thoughtful towards others.
In conclusion, parents should make most decisions for children to guide them to be more empathetic.
They should work with teachers in their efforts to raise conscientous future citizens.
Word count: 347 (aim for under 350 words – around 300 is better!)
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90.
Hunger
Some people believe that education is the key to tackling hunger worldwide while others feel
that the answer is in food aid.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Many feel that education is the best way to tackle hunger while others feel that immediate food aid is a
better solution. As far as I’m concerned, education is clearly the better long- term remedy.
Many charities are active in food aid efforts because of its clear impact in emergency situations. A good
example of this would be famines in a sub-Saharan African nations. These are caused by unpredictable
weather conditions and coupled with governmental instability can result in mass malnutrition and even
death. It is impossible to deal with the sources of these famines over time but food aid addresses its
symptoms and keeps actual people alive now. The tangible results of this kind of aid are the strongest
arguments in its favour.
Although the above mentioned methods are appropriate in emergencies, they do little to disrupt the
underlying causes of hunger. If people are better educated then they can get better jobs and hunger
disappears as a problem. There may be other relevant economic realities, such as the unemployment
rate, that need addressing but education will still go a long way to eradicating hunger. Education can
also help in regions that are prone to hunger as farmers will be able to develop better agricultural
methods. Simply put, if citizens have good jobs, there is little real threat of hunger even under
exceptional circumstances.
In conclusion, although food aid has its use, I feel education is a clearly better option. Governments
ought to divert more resources into education to see world hunger ended over the course of the next
century.
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91.
Academic versus practical
Students should be primarily taught academic subjects so that they can pass exams, and practical
skills such as cooking should not be taught.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Many educators today feel pressure to teach to the test and emphasise academic subjects over more
practical ones. In my opinion, this approach is overtly short-sighted and practical skills play an
important role in a well-rounded education.
Those who support a singular focus on academics can point to its tangible outcome in higher test
scores. A good example of this would be accelerating academic progress at inner city schools. There
have been numerous reforms in the last several decades to help the poorest performing districts catch
up. The results have been uneven at times but overall more students from impoverished or troubled
backgrounds can now go to college, often being the first person in their family to do so. Passing exams
has the very real benefit of giving them opportunities outside of menial work and, in the most extreme
cases, crime.
Though there might be a case for overemphasis on academics in select districts, learning practical skills
is an important part of becoming an all around person. Those who possess certain skills, such as a sharp
memory and logical thinking, will perform better in academics like math and physics. This means that
these skills are rewarded and may become over-developed at the expense of skills related to practical
work such as spatial thinking and multi-tasking. Graduates who know how to please their teachers and
get good grades in academic subjects will find themselves lacking in real world skills. Adding in practical
skills goes a long way towards making this a reality.
In conclusion, the argument for academics only applies to niche segments of society and learning
practical skills has tremendous benefits. Schools should find ways to balance both despite external
pressure from the government and parents for the reductive measure of higher marks.
Word count: 293
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92.
Recycling
Most agree that we should be training children to recycle waste to preserve the Earth’s natural
resources. However, some believe that it is parents who should teach their children to recycle
waste while others feel schools are more responsible.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
The general sentiment in most quarters is that recycling is an integral part of combatting climate
change and most debate now circles around whether parents or teachers should be most responsible. In
my opinion, schools reach the largest number of children overall.
Many believe that instilling values is a parental right. Parents have the basic right to influence their
children according to their own beliefs. For example, a Muslim living in a Christian country will likely
still follow many Islamic traditions. Even if the child learns implicitly or explicitly about Judeo-Christian
tenets in school, the parents have a right to raise their child in the manner they think is most culturally
fitting. This also applies to recycling, though it is hardly a matter of subjective belief to most informed
citizens today.
Despite the rare potential parents who may be against recycling, schools should be where recycling is
taught because government mandates will reach all children. There is simply no way to legislate every
single family to make their children recycle but this can be easily enacted in schools. A good example of
this would be in Japan where school children take an active role in cleaning and separating their own
rubbish for recycling. Not only does this make a huge difference in it of itself but it is also a nationally
comprehensive approach to fostering life-long environmentally conscious habits across an entire
generation.
In conclusion, schools are more likely to have a larger impact on recycling habits and therefore this is
their responsibility. Governments ought to make recycling one of their top educational priorities in the
future as part of a cohesive plan to better the environment.
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93.
Shopping malls versus sports facilities
Some people think that it is better to build more public parks and sports facilities in new towns
rather than shopping malls.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is often suggested that it would be better to erect parks and exercise facilities in new urban
developments rather than shopping malls. I agree that this would be an ideal solution as it would spur
on increased health awareness.
The main reason detractors are in favour of shopping malls is their benefit to the economy. Malls
employ hundreds of workers from cashiers to store clerks to managers as well as the various members
of janitorial staff charged with maintaining the mall itself. The benefits are clear when you couple these
factors with the increased revenue that businesses bring in the form of taxation and propping up the
local consumer product market.
Notwithstanding the economic returns malls bring, parks and sports facilities would do more to
encourage better health. In most developed nations, buying more products, especially with online
services such as Amazon readily available, is no longer a pressing issue. However, health has become
the dominant concern of the decade as obesity soars and heart disease has reached pandemic levels.
Well maintained, beautifully landscaped parks and outdoor exercise facilities would instill in residents
an obligation to work out. If they are numerous, then older people and children, who may not be able to
travel far, will also be able to access them.
In conclusion, the job market is less important than the health of ordinary residents. The bigger issue is
the feasibility of such an approach given the lack of financial incentive for those towns to prioritise the
foundations for their residents’ well-being over business interests.
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94.
Children being less active
Nowadays children watch much more television than they did in the past and spend less time
being active or creative.
What is the reason for this?
What measures should be taken to encourage children to be more active?
Today children spend more time watching television than at any point in the past. The reason for this is
the development of online streaming websites and parents should eschew smartphones to curb this
trend towards passivity.
The main reason that many children today spend an outsized amount of time watching television is that
it is widely available on streaming websites. YouTube was the earliest, and now the most popular,
streaming website for video content. Children are often allowed to watch it on smartphones or iPads.
The more recent rise of streaming websites like Netflix and Hulu provide the same experience as
television on the internet. Simply put, children spend more time watching because they have the ability
to choose whatever show they want, pause it, and binge watch TV shows on a variety of portable
devices with limited adult supervision.
In order to discourage children from watching television, parents should not give their children
smartphones under any circumstances. This is the first step that responsible parents must undertake.
Once children are no longer tempted by phones, it is much easier to get them interested in creative
outlets. Parents can sign up their children for art or music lessons. They could encourage them to do art
at home and instead of putting a TV in their room, fill it with books and art supplies. Children’s natural
curiosity and artistic energy will naturally take over from that point and parents then need only
supervise, guide and intervene when called upon.
In conclusion, parents can counterbalance the rise of streaming by banning portable devices and
stocking up on art supplies. Unfortunately, it will take a concerted effort from the majority of parents to
prevent children without devices from being ostracised socially.
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95.
Filmmaking
Nowadays because of digital technology it is possible for not only studios but also individuals to
produce their own films.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
The democratisation of film has led to greater opportunity as well as fears as to the future of filmmaking.
In my opinion, this is a largely positive development as it opens up the medium for a more diverse
range of socieconomic voices.
The main reason that film purists resist the digital revolution is it brings down the quality of films. A
good example of this is when digital film first burst onto the scene and started to replace film around the
turn of the century. The initial complaints from viewers were that film looks better and digitally shot
movies have a cheap aesthetic akin to a soap opera. As digital film has proliferated beyond studios
looking to cut costs, it has exponentially increased the number of films made by amateurs. This
naturally leads to movies with bad acting, clumsily written dialogue and poor overall production values.
Despite the admitted cons listed above, digital film has given a voice to less wealthy filmmakers who
tend to be of a different class and ethnicity. There are countless examples of students who film digitally,
post their video on YouTube and become internet sensations. Many of these new perspectives are
outside of the predominantly white, male, heterosexual homogenity of Hollywood. It is increasingly
possible for LGBT themes to surface in these shorts and for ethnic minorities around the world to break
through. The most striking evidence is simply comparing the major movies made 50 years ago with the
diverse range of cinema on offer today.
In conclusion, although there are drawbacks in terms of quality those are mitigated by novel themes
from underrepresented demographics. Studios should pay heed and relax their control over an ever-
promising industry.
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96.
Buying cars
More and more people in developing countries are purchasing cars for the first time. What
problems does this cause? What do you think are the possible solutions?
It is a pressing problem that increased automobile purchases in developing countries is leading to a
host of problems that governments will have to deal with in the future. I believe that the biggest
problems centre around traffic and governments can impose higher taxes and support public transport
to minimise the impact.
The rise of the automobile as a popular means of travel in developing countries inevitably leads to
worsening road conditions. This is because developing nations often have narrower roads and fewer
lanes. Once the growing middle class in previously impoverished countries begins to replace buses,
motorbikes, and bicycles with cars, there is often a concurrent rise in the number of gridlocked roads.
For example, research from The Economist linked a 40% rise in traffic jams to a 15% rise in automobile
purchases in 2017 in Vietnam.
To fully address this problem, there are two potential fixes that governments can apply. Firstly,
governments should enact higher taxes on all automobile purchases to deter buyers. This has had a
massive impact in cities like Singapore where purchasing a car is prohibitively expensive for most
residents. Another solution would be to invest further in public awareness campaigns of alternative
modes of travel. A standout example of this would be in Vietnam, where these campaigns coupled with
reduced fares to make busing more affordable, have cut down drastically on the number of vehicles on
the road.
In conclusion, traffic problems caused by cars are a serious issue that governments must work hard to
combat. If efforts are made to reduce automobiles on roads in favor of more efficient transport they will
see their initial investment returned many times over in improved, sustained economic growth.
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97.
Gyms
Many feel that going to the gym is the best way to stay fit. Others think there are more effective
methods.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
A lot of people feel the best way to stay in shape is to regularly go to the gym while others think there are
more effective methods. Although I would readily admit that the health benefits of gyms are self-
evident, the best way to stay fit over the long-term is a to join a sport or similar activity.
Those who swear by gyms often point out the bulk of research on the benefits of working out. People
going to the gym can broadly be divided into those doing cardivascular exercise and weight-lifting (or
partaking in both). Cardio workouts have been proven in various studies to increase circulation,
strengthen the heart muscles and reduce risks of heart disease later in life. Weight-lifting is also a
scientifically supported method of combating bone density deterioration, especially important for
women, and improving muscular health. No reasonable person would doubt both the vast anecdotal
and scientific support for regular trips to the gym.
Despite the aforementioned advantages, it is far more motivating to take part in an organised activity.
Signing up for a gym membership is a notoriously fickle commitment. Most people go for a few months
and give up, never to return again. Contrast that with participation in sports and other activities.
Someone who picks up tennis or football is much more likely to play regularly for a large portion of
their life, possibly deep into old age. Even activities like Yoga and Tai Chi are more likely to become
lifelong habits and therefore have a greater overall impact on fitness levels.
To conclude, going to the gym has indisputable benefits but it is not motivating enough to become
habitual for most gym-goers. Instead, parents and teachers should encourage children to experiment
with a wide range of activities in the hopes that they can develop a lifelong passion for one of them.
Word Count: 307
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98.
Happiness
Happiness is considered very important in life. Why is it difficult to define? What factors are
important in achieving happiness? Given reasons for your answer and include any relevant
examples from your own knowledge or experience. (C4T2)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
Happiness is very difficult to define, because it means so many different things to different people.
While some people link happiness to wealth and material success, others think it lies in emotions and
loving personal relationships. Yet others think that spiritual paths, rather than either the material world
or relationships with people, are the only way to true happiness.
Because people interpret happiness for themselves in so many different ways, it is difficult to give any
definition that is true for everyone. However, if there are different kinds of happiness for different
individuals then the first step in achieving it would be to have a degree of self-knowledge. A person
needs to know who he or she is before being able to know what it is that makes him or her happy.
Of course, factors such as loving relationships, good health, the skills to earn a living and a peaceful
environment all contribute to our happiness too. But this does not mean that people without these
conditions cannot be happy.
Overall, I think an ability to keep clear perspectives in life is a more essential factor in achieving
happiness. By that I mean an ability to have a clear sense of what is important in our lives (the welfare of
our families, the quality of our relationships, making other people happy, etc.) and what is not (a
problem at work, getting annoyed about trivial things, etc.)
Like self-awareness, this is also very difficult to achieve, but I think these are the two factors that may be
the most important for achieving happiness.
262words
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January 1, 2020
99.
Student behavior
In many countries schools have severe problems with student behavior.
What do you think are the causes of this? What solutions can you suggest? (C4T4)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
Poor student behavior seems to be an increasingly widespread problems and I think that modern
lifestyles are probably responsible for this.
In many countries, the birth rate is decreasing so that families are smaller with fewer children. These
children are often spoilt, not in terms of love and attention because working parents do not have the
time for this, but in more material ways. They are allowed to have whatever they want, regardless of
price, and to behave as they please. This means that the children grow up without consideration for
others and without any understanding of where their standard of living comes from.
When they get to school age they have not learnt any self-control or discipline. They have less respect
for their teachers and refuse to obey school rules in the way that their parents did.
Teachers continually complain about this problem and measures should be taken to
combat the situation. But I think the solution to the problem lies with the families, who need to be more
aware of the future consequences of spoiling their children. If they could raise them to be considerate of
others and to be social, responsible individuals, the whole community would benefit.
Perhaps parenting classes are needed to help them to do this, and high quality nursery schools could be
established that would support families more in terms of raising the next generation. The government
should fund this kind of parental support, because this is no longer a problem for individual families,
but for society as a whole.
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100.
Gap year
In some countries young people are encouraged to work or travel for a year between finishing
high school and starting university studies. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages for young
people who decide to do this. (C5T2)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
It is quite common these days for young people in many countries to have a break from studying after
graduating from high school. The trend is not restricted to rich students who have the money to travel,
but is also evident among poorer students who choose to work and become economically independent
for a period of time.
The reasons for this trend may involve the recognition that a young adult who passes directly from
school to university is rather restricted in terms of general knowledge and experience of the world. By
contrast, those who have spent some time earning a living or travelling to other places, have a broader
view of life and better personal resources to draw on. They tend to be more independent, which is a very
important factor in academic study and research, as well as giving them an advantage in terms of coping
with the challenges of student life.
However, there are certainly dangers in taking time off at that important age. Young adults may end up
never returning to their studies or finding it difficult to readapt to an academic environment. They may
think it is better to continue in a particular job, or to do something completely different from a
university course. But overall, I think this is less likely today, when academic qualifications are essential
for getting a reasonable career.
My view is that young people should be encouraged to broaden their horizons. That is the best way for
them to get a clear perspective of what they are hoping to do with their lives and why. Students with
such a perspective are usually the most effective and motivated ones and taking a year off may be the
best way to gain this.
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101.
Personalities
Research indicates that the characteristics we are born with have much more influence on our
personality and development than any experiences we may have in our life. Which do you
consider to be the major influence? (C5T4)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
Today the way we consider human psychology and mental development is heavily influenced by the
genetic sciences. We now understand the importance to inherited characteristics more than ever
before. Yet we are still unable to decide whether an individual’ s personality and development are more
influenced by genetic factors (nature) or by the environment (nurture).
Research, relating to identical twins, has highlighted how significant inherited characteristics can be for
an individual’ s life. But whether these characteristics are able to develop within the personality of an
individual surely depends on whether the circumstances allow such a development. It seems that the
experiences we have in life are so unpredictable and so powerful, that they can boost or over-ride other
influences, and there seems to be plenty of research finding s to confirm this.
My own view is that there is no one major influence in a person’ s life. Instead, the traits we inherit from
our parents and the situations and experiences that we encounter in life are constantly interacting. It is
the interaction of the two that shapes a person’ s personality and dictates ow that personality develops.
If this were not true, then we would be able to predict the behavior and character of a person form the
moment they were born.
In conclusion, I do not think that either nature or nurture is the major influence on a person, but that
both have powerful effects. How these factors interact is still unknown today and they remain largely
unpredictable in a person’ s life.
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102.
Sport stars
Successful sports professional can earn a great deal more money than people in other important
professions. Some people think this is fully justified while think it is unfair. Discuss both these
views and give your own opinion. (C6T2)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
As a result of constant media attention, sports professionals in my country have become stars and
celebrities, and those at the top are paid huge salaries. Just like movie stars, they live extravagant
lifestyles with huge houses and cars.
Many people find their rewards unfair, especially when comparing these super salaries with those of
top surgeons or research scientists, or even leading politicians who have the responsibility of governing
the country. However, sports salaries are not determined he or she holds. Instead, they reflect the public
support that successful stars can generate. So the notion of 'fairness' is not the issue.
Those who feel that sports stars’ salaries are justified might argue that the number of professionals
with real talent are very few, and the money is a recognition of the skills and dedication a person needs
to be successful. Competition is constant and a player is tested every time they perform in their
relatively short career. The pressure from the media is intense and there is little privacy out of the
spotlight. So all of these factors may justify the huge earnings.
Personally, I think that the amount of money such sports stars make is more justified than the huge
earnings of movie stars, but at the same time, it indicates that our society places more value on sport
than on more essential professions and achievements.
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103.
Changes
Some people prefer to spend their lives doing the same things and avoiding change. Other,
however, think that change is always a good thing. Discuss both these views and give your own
opinion. (C6T4)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
Over the last half century the pace of change in the life of human beings has increased beyond our
wildest expectations. This has been driven by technological and scientific breakthroughs that are
changing whole way we view the world on an almost daily basis. This means that change is not always a
personal option, but an inescapable fact of life, and we need to constantly adapt to keep pace with it.
Those people who believe they have achieved some security by doing the same, familiar things are
living in denial. Even when people believe they are resisting change themselves, they cannot stop the
world around them from changing. Sooner or later they will find that the familiar jobs no longer exist,
or that the ‘safe’ patterns of behavior are no longer appropriate.
However, reaching the conclusion that change is inevitable is not the same as assuming that
‘change is always for the better’ . Unfortunately, it is not always the case that new things are promoted
they have good impacts for the majority of people. A lot of
innovations are made with the aim of making money for a few. This is because it is the rich and powerful
people in our society who are able to impose changes (such as in working conditions or property
developments) that are in their own interests.
In conclusion, I would say that change can be stimulating and energizing for individuals when they
pursue it themselves, but that all change, including that which is imposed on people, does not
necessarily have good outcomes.
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104.
Nature or Nurture
It is generally believed that some people are born with certain talents, for instance for sport or
music, and others are not. However, it is sometimes claimed that any child can be taught to
become a good sports person or musician. (C7T1)
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
The relative importance of natural talent and training is a frequent topic of discussion when people try
to explain different levels of ability in, for example, sport, art or music.
Obviously, education systems are based on the belief that all children can effectively be taught to
acquire different skills, including those associated with sport, art or music. So from our own school
experience, we can find plenty of evidence to support the view that a child can acquire these skills with
continued teaching and guided practice.
However, some people believe that innate talent is what differentiates a person who has been trained to
play a sport or an instrument, from those who become good players. In other words, there is more to
the skill than a learned technique, and this extra talent cannot be taught, no matter how good the
teacher or how frequently a child practices.
I personally think that some people do have talents that are probably inherited via their genes. Such
talents can give individuals a facility for certain skills that allow them to excel, while more hare-working
students never manage to reach a comparable level. But, as with all questions of nature versus nurture,
they are not mutually exclusive. Good musicians or artists and exceptional sports stars have probably
succeeded because of both good training and natural talent. Without the natural talent, continuous
training would be neither attractive nor productive, and without the training, the child would not learn
how to exploit and develop their talent.
In conclusion, I agree that any child can be taught particular skills, but to be rally good in areas such as
music, art or sport, then some natural talent is required.
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105.
Parents vs schools
Some people think that parents should teach children how to be good members of society.
Others, however, believe that school is the place to learn this. (C8T1)
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
A child’ s education has never been about learning information and basic skills only. It has always
included teaching the next generation how to be good members of society.
Therefore, this cannot be the responsibility of the parents alone.
In order to be a good member of any society the individual must respect and obey the rules of their
community and share their community and share their values. Educating children to understand the
need to obey rules and respect others always begins in the home and is widely thought to be the
responsibility of parents. They will certainly be the first to help children learn what is important in life,
how they are expected to behave and what role they will play in their world.
However, learning to understand and share the value system of a whole society cannot be achieved just
in the home. Once a child goes to school, they are entering a wider community where teachers and peers
will have just as much influence as their parents do at home. At school, children will experience working
and living with people from a whole variety of backgrounds from the wider society. This experience
should teach them how to co-operate with each other and how to contribute to the life of their
community.
But to be a valuable member of any community is not like learning a simple skill. It is something that an
individual goes on learning throughout life and it is the responsibility of every member of a society to
take responsibility for helping the younger generation to become active and able members of that
society.
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106.
Petrol price
Increasing the price of petrol is the best way to solve growing traffic and pollution problems.
To what extent do you agree or disagree? What other measures do you think might be effective?
(C8T3)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
There is no doubt that traffic and pollution from vehicles have become huge problems, both in cities and
on motorways everywhere. Solving these problems is likely to need more than a simple rise in the price
of petrol.
While it is undeniable that private car use is one of the main causes of the increase in traffic and
pollution, higher fuel costs are unlikely to limit the number of drivers for long. As this policy would also
affect the cost of public transport, it would be very unpopular with everyone who needs to travel on the
roads. But there are various other measures that could be implemented that would have a huge effect on
these problems.
I think to tackle the problem of pollution, cleaner fuels need to be developed. The technology is already
available to produce electric cars that would be both quieter and cleaner to use. Persuading
manufacturers and travellers to adopt this new technology would be a more effective strategy for
improving air quality, especially in cities.
However, traffic congestion will not be solved by changing the type of private vehicle people can use. To
do this, we need to improve the choice of public transport services available to travellers. For example,
if sufficient sky trains and underground train systems were built and effectively maintained in our
major cities, then traffic on the roads would be dramatically reduced. Long-distance train and coach
services should be made attractive and affordable alternatives to driving your own car for long
journeys.
In conclusion, I think that long-term traffic and pollution reductions would depend on educating the
public to use public transport more, and on governments using public money to construct and run
efficiently.
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107.
Foreign languages
Some experts believe that it is better for children to begin learning a foreign language at primary
school rather than secondary school.
Do the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages? (C9T1)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer. Traditionally,
children have begun studying foreign languages at secondary school, but introducing them earlier is
recommended by some educationalists. This policy has been adopted by some educational authorities or
individual schools, with both positive and negative outcomes.
The obvious argument in its favour is that young children pick up languages much more easily than
teenagers. Their brains are still programmed to acquire their mother tongue, which facilitates learning
another language, and unlike adolescents, they are not inhibited by self-consciousness.
The greater flexibility of the primary timetable allows for more frequent, shorter sessions and for a play-
centred approach, thus maintaining learners’ enthusiasm and progress.
Their command of the language in later life will benefit from this early exposure, while learning other
languages subsequently will be easier for them. They may also gain a better understanding of other
cultures.
There are, however, some disadvantages. Primary school teachers are generalists, and may not have the
necessary language skills themselves. If specialists have to be brought in to deliver these sessions, the
flexibility referred to above is diminished. If primary language teaching is not standardised, secondary
schools could be faced with a great variety of levels in different languages within their intake, resulting
in a classroom experience which undoes the earlier gains. There is no advantage if enthusiastic primary
pupils become demotivated as soon as they change schools. However, these issues can be addressed
strategically within the policy adopted.
Anything which encourages language learning benefits society culturally and economically, and early
exposure to language learning contributes to this. Young children innate abilities should be harnessed to
make these benefits more achievable.
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108.
Public health
Some people say that the best way to improve public health is by increasing the number of
sports facilities. Others, however, say that this would have little effect on public health and that
other measures are required.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. (C9T3)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
A problem of modern societies is the declining level of health in the general population, with conflicting
views on how to tackle this worrying trend. One possible solution is to provide more sports facilities to
encourage a more active lifestyle.
Advocates of this believe that today’ s sedentary lifestyle and stressful working conditions mean that
physical activity is no longer part of either our work or our leisure time. If there were easy-to-reach
local sports that could be offered would cater for all ages, levels of fitness and interests: those with
painful memories of PE at school might be happier in the swimming pool than on the football pitch.
However, there may be better ways of tackling this problem. Interest in sport is not universal, and
additional facilities might simply attract the already fit, not those who most need them. Physical activity
could be encouraged relatively cheaply, for example by installing exercise equipment in parks, as my
local council has done. This has the added benefit that parents and children often use them together just
for fun, which develops a positive attitude to exercise at an early age.
As well as physical activity, high tax penalties could be imposed on high-fat food products, tobacco and
alcohol, as excessive consumption of any of these contributes to poor health. Even improving public
transport would help: it takes longer to walk to the bus stop than to the car.
In my opinion, focusing on sports facilities is too narrow an approach and would not have the desired
results. People should be encouraged not only to be more physically active but also adopt a healthier
lifestyle in general.
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109.
Child punishment
It is important for children to learn the difference between right and wrong at an early age.
Punishment is necessary to help them learn this distinction.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
What sort of punishment should parents and teachers be allowed to use to teach good behaviour
to children? (C10T1)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
One important stage in a child’ s growth is certainly the development of a conscience, which is linked to
the ability to tell right from wrong. This skill comes with time and good parenting, and my firm
conviction is that punishment does not have much of a role to play in this. Therefore I have to disagree
almost entirely with the given statement.
To some extent the question depends on the age of the child. To punish a very young child is both wrong
and foolish, as an infant will not understand what is happening or why he or she is being punished. Once
the age of reason is reached however, a child can be rewarded for good behaviour and discouraged from
bad. This kind but firm approach will achieve more than harsh punishments, which might entail many
negative consequences unintended by the parents.
To help a child learn the difference between right and wrong, teachers and parents should firstly
provide good role modelling in their own behavior. After that, if sanctions are needed, the punishment
should not be of a physical nature, as that merely sends the message that it is acceptable for larger
people to hit smaller ones- an outcome which may well result in the child starting to bully others. Nor
should the punishment be in any way cruel.
Rather, teachers and parents can use a variety of methods to discipline their young charges, such as
detention, withdrawal of privileges, and time-out. Making the punishment fit the crime is a useful
notion, which would see children being made to pick up rubbish they have dropped, clean up graffiti
they have drawn, or apologize to someone they have hurt. In these ways responsibility is developed in
the child, which leads to much better future behaviour than does punishment.
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110.
Cultural homogeneity
Countries are becoming more and more similar because people are able to buy the same
products anywhere in the world.
Do you think this is a positive or negative development? (C10T3)
This model has been prepared by an examiner as an example of a very good answer.
It is said that countries are becoming similar to each other because of the global spread of the same
products, which are now available for purchase almost anywhere. I strongly believe that this modern
development is largely detrimental to culture and traditions worldwide.
A country’ s history, language and ethos are all inextricably bound up in its manufactured artefacts. If
the relentless advance of international brands into every corner of the world continues, these bland
packages might one day completely oust the traditional objects of a nation, which would be a loss of
richness and diversity in the world, as well as the sad disappearance of the manifestations of a place’ s
character. What would a Japanese tea ceremony be without its specially crafted teapot, or a Fijian kava
ritual without its bowl made from a certain type of tree bark?
Let us not forget either that traditional products, whether these be medicines, cosmetics, toys , clothes,
utensils or food, provide employment for local people. The spread of multinational products can often
bring in its wake a loss of jobs, as people turn to buying the new brand, perhaps, thinking it more
glamorous than the one they are used to. This eventually puts old-school craftspeople out of work.
Finally, tourism numbers may also be affected, as travellers become disillusioned with finding every
place just the same as the one they visited previously. To see the same products in shops the world over
is boring, and does not impel visitors to open their wallets in the same way that trinkets or souvenirs
unique to the particular area do.
Some may argue that all people are entitled to have access to the same products, but I say that local
objects suit local conditions best, and that faceless uniformity worldwide is an unwelcome and dreary
prospect.
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Pauline Cullen
111.
Recycling 1
Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only
way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement. To what extent do
you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?
My Version
Recycling waste materials should help tackle the mountains of domestic rubbish produced each year
and our depleting natural resources. However, recycling programmes need the full cooperation of
residents if they are to be effective. The question here Is whether this can only be achieved by Imposing
legal restrictions.
Undoubtedly, far too many recyclables are thrown away with the general waste and, as a result, damage
the environment. To address this problem, we need to first consider the reasons behind people’s
reluctance to recycle. One possible Issue may be the process Itself, which usually requires us to clean
and sort waste Into different categories based on their material. This is both time-consuming and
confusing if we do not know whether certain types of glass, plastic or paper are recyclable or not. We
naturally avoid tasks that take up too much time, so It is not surprising that so many people simply
throw all of their rubbish away in the same bln.
If the main problem is confusion and a lack of time, then creating a law to govern this seems rather
severe. It also seems unlikely to succeed given that laws and fines generally lead to resentment rather
than cooperation. Furthermore, as recycling must occur within the home, It is difficult to imagine how
such a law could realistically be enforced. A better solution would be to find ways to simplify the
recycling process and also educate people about the benefits of recycling both for the environment and
for society as a whole.
To conclude, I believe that the most effective way to Increase recycling Is to make the task simpler and
raise awareness of the Impact that excessive amounts of waste are having on our planet. In my view,
laws and fines should only be used as a last resort and when all other approaches have failed.
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112.
Recycling 2
Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only
way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement. To what extent do
you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?
My Version 1 - I disagree
Recycling waste materials should help to tackle both the mountains of domestic rubbish produced each
year and our depleting natural resources. However, recycling programmes need the full cooperation of
residents If they are to be effective. The question here Is whether this can only be achieved by Imposing
legal restrictions.
Undoubtedly, far too many recyclables are thrown away with the general waste and, as a result, damage
the environment. To address this problem, we need to first consider the reasons behind people’s
reluctance to recycle. One possible Issue may be the process Itself, which usually requires us to clean
and sort waste Into different categories based on their material. This is both time-consuming and
confusing if we do not know whether certain types of glass, plastic or paper are recyclable or not. We
naturally avoid tasks that take up too much time, so It is not surprising that so many people simply
throw all of their rubbish away in the same bln.
If the main problem is confusion and a lack of time, then creating a law to govern this seems rather
excessive. It also seems unlikely to succeed given that laws and fines generally lead to resentment
rather than cooperation. Furthermore, as recycling must occur within the home, It is difficult to imagine
how such a law could realistically be enforced. A better solution would be to find ways to simplify the
recycling process and also educate people about the benefits of recycling both for the environment and
for society as a whole.
To conclude, I believe that the most effective way to Increase recycling Is to make the task simpler and
raise awareness of the Impact that excessive amounts of waste are having on our planet. In my view,
laws and fines should only be used as a last resort and when all other approaches have failed.
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113.
Recycling 3
Some people claim that not enough of the waste from homes is recycled. They say that the only
way to increase recycling is for governments to make it a legal requirement. To what extent do
you think laws are needed to make people recycle more of their waste?
My Version 2-1 agree
Recycling waste materials should help to tackle both the mountains of domestic rubbish produced each
year and our depleting natural resources. However, recycling programmes need the full cooperation of
residents if they are to be effective, and unfortunately, this is often lacking.
Even though many countries already have sophisticated systems and processes for recycling used
materials, far too many recyclables continue to be thrown away with the general waste. As a result, our
growing rubbish dumps are having a devastating effect on the environment. Moreover, throwing paper,
plastics, and glass into the general waste means losing the chance to extract precious raw materials so
that they can be used again. This is a pressing problem that we must do our best to solve as quickly as
possible.
Many people say they do not recycle simply because it is too time-consuming, and, in spite of the many
educational programmes about this, many say they are confused about what can be recycled. Given the
information overload we are confronted with every day, it is perhaps unsurprising that adding even
more information has little impact and is easily Ignored. Unfortunately, we humans are creatures of
habit and tend to carry on as normal unless we are forced to change our ways. Thus, the only effective
way to bring about a real change in our behaviour is to implement new laws governing our domestic
waste.
To sum up, increasing our recycling levels is imperative given the impact our waste is having on the
planet, yet our busy lives mean that we are not paying enough attention to this. Thus, I completely agree
that we will only achieve success through new laws and regulations.
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114.
Jobs & Skills
In today’s job market it is far more important to have practical skills than theoretical knowledge.
In the future, job applicants may not need any formal qualifications. To what extent do you agree
or disagree?
Practical skills are very important and it could be argued that they are as important as academic
qualifications when it comes to getting a job. Nevertheless, it is unlikely that academic qualifications
will ever become unnecessary. There are certain manual jobs such as cleaning and labouring where
formal qualifications are less important. Employers in these industries are more likely to employ people
with a good working knowledge of the job and what it entails. However, even in these jobs it is
important for people to have a minimum level of education, especially if they want to rise above the
lowest working level. How can a person without good writing and mathematical skills balance a budget
or manage staff? How can such a person make informed decisions about which products to use or safety
issues in the workplace?
Having said this, a student graduating from university with the highest level of qualifications, but
limited practical skills, still has a great deal to learn. None of us would expect or want a doctor without
many years of practical experience and training to perform an essential operation. Students from all
disciplines need to understand that entering the job market with a degree in management, for example,
does not automatically qualify them for a managerial role.
Clearly, education is important in teaching the theoretical side of any profession. This theoretical
knowledge forms an important basis for practical skills which are also essential. In truth neither one nor
the other is dispensable when it comes to getting a good job.
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115.
Crime rates 1
In many countries the level of crime is increasing and crimes are becoming more violent. Why do
you think this is and what can be done about it?
It is true that the crime rate is increasing in many areas of the world. Many governments react to this
problem by building prisons to contain the criminals. This has proved so unsuccessful that each year
bigger and tougher prisons are needed. Perhaps we need to go back to the basics of this problem and
assess the possible causes.
One of the reasons that is often given is the increase in violence both on television and in computer
games. While this may be responsible for making crimes more violent,
1 think it is unrealistic to lay the blame for all criminal activity on the media. I think the main cause of
crime is the increasing gap between the rich and the poor, as well as the increasing use of drugs. The
majority of crimes are being committed by people in need who are forced to take what they do not have,
and by people addicted to drugs.
Solving these problems is not easy. We could try to ensure that more jobs are created so that the divide
between rich and poor is reduced. However, criminals need to be trained and rehabilitated so that they
can enter the workforce. Furthermore, providing employment only addresses part of this problem, so
far there has been little success in the war against drugs
I believe that crime will continue to rise, particularly in crowded and overpopulated areas, unless we can
find an effective way to address these issues. Perhaps we can help to break the cycle by trying to ensure
fewer young people enter a life of crime in the first place. We could do this through education and by
making sure that they are able to work.
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116.
Crime rates 2
Each year, the crime rate increases. What are the causes of crime and what could be done to
prevent this rise in criminal activity?
Crime is an issue of increasing concern around the world, and more money than ever before is being
spent on the detection and punishment of criminal activity. The reasons why people commit crime are
countless, but drugs and alcohol, social problems and poverty play a major role. To solve these
problems, governments can either focus on draconian punishments, or improve employment
opportunities, invest in good housing projects and tackle drug and alcohol abuse.
One of the main causes of criminality is the use, sale and trafficking of narcotics. For example, the sale of
drugs is organised by armed criminal gangs who illegally traffick drugs and control their business with
extreme violence. Drug-related crime does not end there; drug users often steal to fund their habit,
resulting in further acts of petty crime. The social problems connected with crime are said to be the
result of single-parent families, absent role models and bad living conditions. The children from these
broken families often become criminals because they feel alienated from society. Poverty is also a
reason behind crime. When unskilled jobs pay so little and prices are so high, it's easy to see why some
turn to crime for an income.
Dime can of, course, be dealt with by toughening criminal laws and introducing longer custodial
sentences for persistent criminals, but some of the best ways to deal with crime may be to deal with the
social causes. Increasing employment opportunities in poorer areas would improve living standards,
which would mean access to affordable housing and education. Government funding for drug and
alcohol rehabilitation programmes would help reduce dependency on stimulants and the need for the
criminal activity that surrounds them.
In conclusion, crime is a major issue, but cracking down on offenders with a harsh penal system is not
the only way. These problems can be solved through the government providing jobs and funding which
should raise living standards and dramatically reduce crime levels.
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117.
The media
Whoever controls the media also controls opinions and attitudes of the people and there is little
that can be done to rectify this. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
In some countries, the media is controlled exclusively by large companies; in others it is the government
that has this control. Often, in a war situation, one of the first casualties is the media, which is seized by
one group or another. This gives some support to the idea that the media is a source of power and
control.
Whoever controls the media also has ultimate control over what is published or broadcasted and what
is omitted.
They can also add a certain prejudice or bias to their coverage of certain news stories depending on
their own feelings about the matter. This is not a new problem, although the issue is perhaps more
pressing now that the Internet and pay-TV have enabled these messages to be disseminated even
further.
However, we should remember that readers have their own ideas and opinions. You can control what is
printed but you cannot control the opinions of your readers. I think the only positive here is that,
nowadays, people seem to be much more cynical about what they read in the press or hear on the
television. In particular, when it comes to the tabloid press, people know that they have to take what
they read with a grain of salt. In other words, they read knowing they may be being lied to. Perhaps it is
of even greater concern that we have become so accepting of this form of censorship.
The only thing that can be done to alter this situation is for the government to regulate the industry so
that there is no longer a monopoly on media ownership. This also means that they have to allow and
support a totally free press, even if this means the government may be criticised or ridiculed within its
pages.
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118.
Free education and healthcare
All education and healthcare should be funded by the government and free for everyone. To what
extent do you agree or disagree?
Healthcare and education are both essential services that can be extremely expensive and, as a result,
unaffordable for those on a limited budget. Nevertheless, it is important to establish just who is
responsible for funding them. The health of a country's citizens is vitally important, without adequate
healthcare, people of all ages can become extremely ill and thus unable to earn a living or take care of
themselves. So it is essential for governments to provide well-equipped hospitals as well as highly
trained staff to run them. There is also a need for appropriate emergency services. Furthermore, without
a good public education system, people may find they are limited in their work choices. If education is
not provided free to all. those born Into poverty may find themselves unable to rise above that level.
We may all wish for these essential services to be provided free of charge, but the government needs to
obtain the funds for them from somewhere. Even when they are provided free of charge, there has to be
some way of recouping the costs. One way of acquiring the necessary funds Is by Imposing taxes.
Alternatively, access to welfare can be means-tested and based on personal levels of income. The Irony
Is that, in democratic societies, where a government Is elected based on its promises, It Is often the
political party that promises tax cuts that is elected to office.
It seems clear that poorer members of our society need this type of aid and If these costs are covered, at
least partially, by the government, then we need to accept that our taxes will be used to fund them.
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119.
Obesity
Obesity is now a major global epidemic. What can be done to tackle this increasingly common
problem?
Obesity is now one of the main causes of preventable death, especially in industrialised countries. To
tackle this problem, governments can reduce the impact of their overweight citizens by the careful use
of taxation to fund alternatives to a sedentary lifestyle. However, individuals should also take
responsibility for their own health by avoiding a bad diet and taking the initiative to participate in sport.
It is important for governments to act quickly to curb obesity because of the rising death rate. There
will also be rising costs in healthcare and the benefits system if it is left unchecked. To combat this
problem, governments should, first of all, heavily tax junk food and use the revenue generated to
subsidise healthy fruit and vegetables. This would make healthy food cheaper and more widely
available than unhealthier options. Also, the government can act by funding leisure centres, sports clubs
and gyms. This money could be used to help people gain motivation to exercise and become more active.
On the other hand, there are those who claim that obesity is due to lifestyle choice and therefore an
individual problem, not one for the government. They claim that people should find their own
motivation to prevent obesity by being aware of the potentially fatal consequences of their lifestyles.
Individuals could also change their diets by switching from a carbohydrate- heavy diet to one which
includes a balance of vitamins and minerals.
Joining a sports club need not always be the only way to lose weight. Even vigorous housework or heavy
gardening can help avert heart disease.
In conclusion, although individuals may be able to help themselves by changing their diets and activities,
it may require government intervention to tackle obesity quickly and on a large scale.
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120.
Alternative energy
Alternative energy sources that use the natural power of the wind, waves and sun are too
expensive and complicated to replace the coal, oil and gas that we use to power our cities and
transport. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this?
Alternative energy is thought by some to be the answer to our reliance on fossil fuels, as sources of
alternative energy are low emitters of CO2 and are a sustainable means of providing electrical power.
Critics of 'green energy' contend that current technologies are either too costly or impractical to
realistically replace our current energy needs.
The advantages of 'green energy' are obvious. There is no need to worry about dwindling supplies of
progressively more expensive resources. Solar power will never run out and, once initial costs are paid
off, the electricity is basically free. These sources of energy have another major benefit in the shape of
their low emissions. Although there are emissions costs in the building of wind turbines or
hydroelectric power stations, there is no further air pollution or the risk of environmental
contamination.
This notion of a perfect world of free and non-polluting energy does draw criticism, however. It is
obvious that solar power won't work at night or that not every country has a coastline, rivers or windy
hills. It is also a problem that replacing our current energy supply will entail expensive research and
development, which, in turn, involves government cooperation. One last obstacle to the adoption of
‘green energy' is nuclear power. Many countries see the huge energy production from this power source
as a more practical solution than messing around with the wind and waves.
In conclusion, there is little doubt that we will soon need to wean ourselves off fossil fuels and on to an
alternative fuel source. The only real question is whether we risk the costs and delays of green energy or
choose the productive, but potentially dangerous, nuclear option.
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121.
Tourism
Tourism has increased so much over the last 50 years that it is having a mainly negative impact
on local inhabitants and the environment. However, others claim that it is good for the economy.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of tourism and give your own opinion.
Whether or not tourist destinations benefit from international tourism is a debatable issue. To some
governments, the local economic benefits are worth the overcrowding and hiked prices of the tourist
season. However, there are environmental and social costs and other risks of relying on tounsm as a
major source of annual income.
Sleepy coastal communities can be changed beyond recognition by mass-market tourism. Package
holiday companies operate huge numbers of low-cost flights to high-rise hotels in developing countries
every summer.
This means, of course, that easy money can be had servicing this seasonal influx and the government
sees increased tax revenue and local employment. However, when the tourist season comes to an end,
employment ceases and the area becomes a ghost town. The social cohesion of a small community can
also be blighted by the seasonal migration of people to the cities to look for work out of season, leaving
only the elderly behind. This is perhaps made worse by second home owners, who drive up house
prices beyond the means of local inhabitants.
On the other hand, the local community do gain language skills and other fringe benefits of cultural
exchange. Such a large volume of travellers every year can cause environmental problems to fragile
habitats and historical sites. Age-old stone remains can be worn away and traditional buildings
demolished in favour of bland international hotels. Local infrastructure can also fail to cope with large
numbers of visitors, leading to pollution and litter. However, over time this can change as the economy
improves and tourism becomes more of an established industry. Local government investment in
infrastructure should ensure repeat trade and further benefits for the economy.
Overall, tourism can be a good source of income for countries blessed with natural beauty or sites of
historical interest. However, governments must ensure that the wishes of local businesses are not put
before the needs of the local community and that any revenue generated by tourism is reinvested in the
area to protect the local environment.
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Traffic congestion MACMILLAN
Traffic congestion is becoming increasingly problematic in major cities. What solutions can you
suggest to help solve the problem?
Major cities around the world are beset by a similar problem: traffic congestion. From Shanghai to New
York, key cities in most developing or developed countries are tackling congested roads and all the
negative consequences that this brings. Finding answers is an ongoing issue.
One key solution for the problem is public transport. In many places this is not convenient and too
expensive which means that people still prefer to take their own cars rather than travel by bus, train or
underground. Reducing the cost of public transport and checking that it works smoothly, for example
by ensuring that buses link to key train stations and run late enough each day, will entice people back
onto public transport systems.
Ensuring that this transport has proper staffing, in other words have ticket inspectors and staff at
stations, will also help as people will feel safer. This would, for example, allow women travelling alone
late at night to still feel secure.
Another way to persuade people to leave their cars at home is by increasing taxes on driving. Charging
tax on parking and petrol could bring in more revenue to fund better roads or support other types of
transport. For example, higher road tax could fund cycling paths within cities.
However, making travel by private car more difficult is only viable if reliable and affordable alternatives
are in place. Another measure which could help Ls to develop more ‘park and ride' schemes where
people can park free at the edge of the city and catch a bus in to the centre. There should also be more
cycle paths available.
By having better alternatives in place and making them more attractive than using private cars, it may
be possible to reduce the increasing problems with traffic congestion that modem cities face.
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Globalization and Cities
Nowadays many countries have very cosmopolitan cities with people from all over the world.
How can the government ensure that all these people can live together harmoniously?
In today’s cosmopolitan world it is unusual to find a major city or country where there are no
immigrants. People travel more now than they ever did in the past and populations have had to adapt to
this transitional lifestyle much more quickly than in the past. Ultimately society, as a group of
individuals, directs the way that new arrivals in a country are treated. But the government can do a
number of things to support this.
Firstly, all governments should insist that schools teach history and culture from more than one country,
not just the home nation. By learning how others have lived we gain insight into alternative cultures
and ways of life which makes us more accepting when we meet people from those countries. Of course
we don’t have time to learn about the history of every country in the world but understanding at least
one other culture opens our minds and makes us more tolerant.
In addition, when immigrants choose to settle in a country, the host government should offer free
language and culture lessons. It is impossible for new arrivals to integrate if they do not understand the
language and habits of their new home. I believe it is important for immigrants to learn the culture of
the place they have chosen to settle. By acquiring the language and knowledge about the culture, they
will be able integrate more easily and comfortably without necessarily losing their own identity.
Finally the governments of countries should make sure that they have some stringent laws to protect
people from aggression or prejudice so that, should an immigrant face terrible attitudes, they have
some protection. By ensuring people feel safe the host country shows that it is civilized and promotes
integration.
In summary, understanding others is the key to harmonious living but laws should also be in place to
protect people from those who can’t behave responsibly.
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124.
Technology as a Study Tool
Some people think that technology is now an invaluable study tool for young people. Others,
however, believe that it is harmful for the studying process. Discuss both views and give your
own opinion.
Technology is seen by some people as the key to success for young students. Others, however, argue
that it has a negative impact, but I think technology is a positive force for the young as they study.
Some are of the opinion that the role played by technology in the studying process for the young is very
important, because compared to the past, studying is now much more efficient and convenient. For
example, recent advances in areas such as mobile technology mean that information can now be
accessed at any time and anywhere, thus reducing the effort students need to devote researching for
essay and studies, in general.
Others, however, believe that the negative effect technology can have on young people's studies is not
insignificant. They arguement that far from improving the way young people deal with knowledge as
they study, technology is, in effect, harming the thinking process. Their argument is that students'
thinking is being done by laptops and tablets. As a result, they are unable to analyse and use the
information they encounter, which can damage their education.
Personally, I feel that technology is useful for young students nowadays. As well as improving the
studying process, technology allows young people to manipulate the vast amounts of knowledge they
encounter via the internet and in libraries. Without technology, in fact, preparing for exams and studying
would both be impractical, because they would not be able to look at, process and examine the vast
amounts of information at their fingertips.
As we have seen, while the effect of technology on young people’s studies is seen as both positive and
negative, on balance I think it is a valuable tool.
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125.
Worsened Environment
Many people feel that urban environments are more unhealthy than they have ever been. What
do you think are the main causes of this problem? What measures can be effective in tackling this
problem?
Towns and cities around the world are much less healthy for their inhabitants compared to the past.
This situation is the direct result of several factors, but many approaches exist to address the issue.
One reason for the problem is greater population density combined with increased traffic, which, in
turn, causes pollution, like air and noise, as well as stress. For example, many countries worldwide, not
just in Europe, are becoming more urbanised as people move to cities because of the entertainment and
education facilities available, along with
greater work opportunities. As a result, city life is considerably less wholesome now both physically and
mentally than for previous generations.
To make city environments healthier, however, several important steps can be taken. For example,
urban areas can be made greener by introducing more green spaces, even if they are only micro-
gardens with a few trees, shrubs and seats. This can lead to both cleaner air and reduced stress. The
problem can also be addressed by public and private buildings being made greener with the creation of
roof gardens for people to relax in.
Having transport systems that are efficient, cheap and comfortable is another way of ensuring that
cities are healthy places. Such a measure will also enhance the quality of city life by reducing air
pollution and stress on the roads as people are drawn to using the transport system. Attractive
buildings that integrate work and living conditions as well as facilities like leisure, health and education
set in attractive open spaces, can also lead to improvements in the health of the urban environment.
Thus, despite cities being less healthy than in the past, the root causes can be tackled with several
simple strategies.
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126.
Experience versus Knowledge
Nowadays, experience is more valued in the workplace than knowledge in many countries. Do
you think the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
Experience and knowledge are both crucial in the modern work environment. However, I personally feel
that the focus on the former is much more beneficial in the modem knowledge-based economy.
The importance of knowledge for workers cannot be underestimated. For example, employees need
qualifications and knowledge of skills such as numeracy and literacy, as well as knowledge of how
systems, such as computer systems, work. In order for professionals such as engineers, teachers or
doctors to be successful, for example in their careers, they need knowledge as well as experience. While
certain types of knowledge can be acquired during work experience, it is essential for a body of
knowledge such as medical and engineering information to be acquired beforehand.
In today's world, however, where knowledge is effectively controlled by machines, it is essential for
workers to focus on developing the skills to manipulate this knowledge, as it is so voluminous that it is
now impossible to acquire. Knowledge, in effect, plays a secondary role to skills and experience.
There are, therefore, clear advantages to attaching greater value to experience compared to knowledge
in the workplace. The modern world demands that companies and institutions have employees with
very sophisticated skills not just in technology, but in dealing with modern systems. As a result,
frequently workers' technical expertise often takes precedence over basic knowledge and without
workers with the necessary experience, it is impossible for companies and organisations to flourish.
As we have seen, despite knowledge being very important in the modern workplace, it is clear that the
advantages of a greater emphasis on experience outweighs any disadvantages.
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127.
Old Buildings versus New Buildings
Some people think it is important to construct new buildings rather than wasting money on
maintaining old ones. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
The skylines of cities around the world are changing rapidly as more modern building are being
constructed, replacing older buildings, which require more money to renovate and maintain. Personally
I feel that preserving older buildings is often a waste of money for various reasons.
There is no denying that it is worthwhile keeping certain old buildings. Many castles and mansions, for
example, around the world are of great historical interest and they deserve to be preserved, but in some
cases old buildings are often overrated, while many new buildings are undervalued. Instead of money
being spent on improving them, many old buildings should have been demolished, because they are not
fit for purpose. Many people like them for nostalgic reasons, and there is no doubt that they are
evocative of another era, but they are in many instances not very practical to work or live in.
On the other hand, new buildings are generally cheaper to build and maintain than keeping old
buildings. The costs involved in the latter arise because it is difficult sometimes to find the correct
materials for renovation. It is also time-consuming to modernise them while at the same time keeping
the original features.
Some people dislike modem construction methods because they use a lot of glass and steel rather than
old-fashioned materials such as bricks. Personally,
I find certain modern skylines in cities like Doha in Qatar, Shanghai and New York, impressive and
beautiful. Cities which don’t have modem buildings can seem rather melancholic and not as dazzling as
some people feel.
As we have seen, the construction of modern buildings is more worthwhile than maintaining older ones.
In recent years, the lack of such soft skills as communication and working in teams has grown. This
development is the result of various factors, which can have a negative impact on both employees and
employers.
A deficiency in soft skills is caused by various factors such as the current emphasis on computer-based
work.
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128.
Soft Skills
In the modern world, many employees lack soft skills such as communication and working in
teams. What are the main causes of this problem? What are the effects of the lack of such skills?
In recent years, the lack of such soft skills as communication and working in teams has grown. This
development is the result of various factors, which can have a negative impact on both employees and
employers.
A deficiency in soft skills is caused by various factors such as the current emphasis on computer-based
work. automation, and as a consequence a lack of socialisation in general. Take the impact of working
electronically, for example. This can lead to a decline in the experience of dealing with colleagues face to
face on a daily basis. As a result, workers are less able to communicate effectively with their fellow
workers, their managers, and, if applicable, the public. From the automation perspective, many business
processes such as dealing with the public have increased the distance between people generally, and
have further led to decline in overall socialisation.
The above factors have a direct impact both on the employees and businesses and the public. From the
perspective of the employee, the effect can be both psychological and financial. A bank worker may, for
instance, become dissatisfied with their work and their efficiency may decline. This, in turn, can lead to
a lack of promotion or bonuses, leading to further dissatisfaction. From employers’ perspective, such a
situation is not healthy as it can affect profits and ultimately the viability of the organisation. The
consequences are also felt by the general public who are then faced with a reduction in the quality of
service.
As we have seen, there are various reasons behind the lack of soft skills like communication and team
working among modern employees, which can have a huge impact on people in the workplace,
companies and the general public.
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129.
Technology in Arts
Nowadays technology is influencing modern art in areas such as design, painting and film. Do
you think this is a positive or negative development?
The advances in technology are being keenly felt in modern art in fields like design, painting and film.
Such a trend I think is beneficial for those studying and working in these areas, as well as the public.
The main criticism levelled at the use of technology in the areas above is that it is de- skilling workers.
With computer painting and design, including on tablets, students in the above areas are losing basics
skills in producing objects by hand.
Likewise, children are losing the ability even to hold implements like pens and brushes, to coordinate
their actions, to plan and to think through the basic processes for producing something. The same
applies to workers in these areas.
This is a valid criticism, but the benefits derived from the increasing use of technology in the areas
above are huge. Computer software, such as 3D printing, supplements the skills of the students and
workers in design, paint and films. The technology does not replace people, but is an additional tool like
any other.
Another reason why the effect technology is having on the fields above should be seen in a positive light
is that these areas have through the ages adapted to the available technology to improve their work for
the benefit of society. The latest technology now allows efficient car design and mechanics, as in hybrid
cars. Artists and film makers can use computers to create more entertaining interactive art works and
films with computer-generated imagery for the publics benefit.
As we have seen, while there may be some downsides to the increasing role of technology in modern art
such as design, painting and film, its increasing influence is a positive development.
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Business Responsibilities
Companies are responsible only for making money for their investors. Therefore, they should
not be held accountable for the environmental and social costs of their business activity to
society as a whole. Businesses should do no more than concentrate on making profit. To what
extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
From a strictly capitalist point of view, companies exist simply to make profits and there are businesses
that focus on this aim regardless of social or environmental consequences. In this essay I will discuss
why such an approach to business is not only irresponsible but may be self-defeating, in that firms who
continuously ignore such factors may even be harming their profits.
First of all, from a business point of view, public awareness of green issues is at an all-time high, and
firms that are seen as working hard to restrict pollution and encourage recycling are often looked on
more favourably by consumers. Therefore being environmentally friendly is not only better for the
planet, it could also give companies an advantage over competitors. In addition, in many countries there
are government incentives for companies to lessen their environmental impact. For example, the
introduction of carbon credits means that firms can protect the environment and receive tax credits in
return, so clearly there are also economic rewards to being environmentally friendly.
Equally, businesses who disregard public opinion or engage in socially irresponsible practices do so at
great risk. They may find themselves subject to strikes and boycotts of their products, and firms who
continuously provoke negative social reactions may eventually be barred from trading within certain
markets. On the other hand, those businesses who work hard to maintain the public trust are more
likely to experience increased sales, leading to more revenue.
In summary, businesses should not be blinded by profits. They need to remember that they are subject
to the will of the public on issues such as the environment and their social stance. If they want to
succeed, these factors should not be ignored and, properly managed, could even help boost revenues.
(280 words)
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131.
Science versus computer technology
Fewer students are studying science at school and university, favouring more computer-based
subjects instead. Is this a positive or negative development? What are the reasons for this?
In recent years, it has become evident that there has been a shift among secondary and university
students away from traditional sciences and towards IT-based subjects. In this essay I will talk about
the reasons behind this shift and explain why I think that overall this is a negative development.
The rise on popularity of IT and similar computer-based subjects is unsurprising given how pervasive
computer technology is within society. Our lives are so dependent on devices and the Internet that it has
become one of the world’s main industries. What is more, the media is full of stories of tech start-ups
that have made their founders / inventors into millionaires or even billionaires, so it is easy to see why
young people would be attracted to the industry as a field of study. It certainly seems a safer bet than a
career in science, which typically requires a longer term commitment and at least at first glance less
rewards in terms of salary and social prestige.
However, both academia and society as a whole depend on a sustainable stream of talented scientists,
pushing the boundaries of what is possible. These are the people who develop our medicines, design
our cars, improve our manufacturing processes, invent new materials – the list is endless and their
work is vital for maintaining and improving the quality of life that we enjoy. A fall in the number of
students taking sciences therefore means a fall in the number of talented people doing such valuable
work.
In conclusion, the move to towards computer-based subjects and careers is understandable, given the
importance of the computing industry in today’s world. However, if this is at the expense of having new
scientists and engineers, then it is also potentially very detrimental. Without scientific innovation, the
world will be a very different place.
(304 words)
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132.
Budget for healthcare
In many societies in the world, the population is ageing rapidly and this is leading to an
unsustainable increase in the cost of public healthcare. A nation’s population should pay for
their healthcare provision in the future.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Advances in medical science are resulting in prolonged lifespans but there is a knock-on effect for
public health services with many hospitals struggling to cope with an aging populace. Many countries
enjoy the benefits of free or subsidised national public health services. However, there are some within
senior health management who claim that such provision will become unsustainable, and I firmly agree
that changes need to be made in order to reflect this changing reality.
Despite the notion that healthcare should be ‘free’, such care is predominantly funded by the taxpayer.
To give a specific example, a recent report in my country established that almost 40% of the nation’s tax
spending is distributed to healthcare and some 80% of that figure is reserved for treating the elderly.
This is a disproportionate amount of money which has greatly increased the burden on the state and
existing funding is no longer sufficient to meet these needs. This is turn impacts on the standard of care
that can be provided as shown by numerous negative media reports about the conditions for both staff
and patients. If we want quality healthcare then, clearly this financial burden needs to be alleviated.
One way to do so would be to increase the contributions made by citizens through increased taxation.
Alternatively, governments could encourage those who can afford it to take up private healthcare
arrangements. By switching to a private model, the well-off can afford a higher quality of care, while at
the same relieving pressure on public services for those who do not have the means to go private.
One thing is for certain, an ageing population has increased the pressure on existing health provision. If
we are going to maintain the standards of healthcare that we are used to, more funding needs to be
found either through taxation and alternative forms of provision should be considered. Otherwise,
standards will fall and people’s lives will be put at risk.
(323 words)
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133.
Aging population
In many countries around the world, life expectancy is increasing. Discuss the advantages and
disadvantages of this situation and give your opinion.
Medical care over the past century has improved dramatically. As a consequence, the world’s
population is increasingly living long into old age. Is this having a harmful effect on societies across
globe, or are there more benefits than drawbacks?
One obvious issue with an ageing population is that it can create enormous demands on a nation’s
health service. As people live longer into their old age, the chances of them suffering from serious
illnesses increases. As a result, the likelihood of them requiring medical treatment becomes higher, and
it becomes more difficult to provide care for everyone. A further downside is that living longer does not
necessarily bring happiness. By this I mean, an older person is unable to do many of the activities that
they want to do, leading to the likelihood of depression and a deterioration in their physical health.
Having said that, one obvious benefit to people living longer is that young people can benefit for a
longer time from the wisdom handed down to them by older members of their families. In today’ fast-
paced world, it is often comforting to seek advice from older generations. Consequently, the physical
health of a grandparent is almost irrelevant, as the children and grandchildren will benefit from the
experience of an older mind. What is more, retired people today are generally much healthier than they
have ever been, and often enjoy their lives more than they did when they were young. They have the
best of both worlds – a family that can care for and look up to them, and better health than at any time
in human history.
Weighing up both sides of the argument again, although there are a number of problems that old age
brings – predominantly health-related – the benefits that it brings to the family unit and to society as a
whole are impossible to ignore.
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134.
Salary and job satisfaction
The most important consideration when choosing any career or job is having a high income. To
what extent do you agree or disagree?
It is widely accepted that, for most people. their daily working lives will not be spent in their dream
jobs. Despite this, I do not feel that people should instead prioritise becoming a higher earner above all
other concerns.
To begin with, I strongly believe that people need stimulation in their daily working lives in order to feel
a sense of reward. Very few of us can go through an entire career staying in a position or an industry
that we find boring purely for the financial incentive. Secondly, there are so many people who see their
working life as a search for fulfilment and contentment in helping others, rather than a search for
wealth. It seems unlikely that the priority, for, say, every nurse or teacher in the world is to become
well-off, and jobs such as these are rarely extremely well-paid.
Despite this, some would argue that those people who have families to support should always prioritise
earning a high income; after all, it means securing their children’s future. Others point out that, as the job
market becomes increasingly unstable across the globe, it is vital to earn more than therefore save more.
However, I do not agree that a good salary should necessarily be the number one concern for everyone.
Too many people become preoccupied with the next pay rise or career move, and eventually become
unhappy or even depressed, neither of which helps them to save or to provide for their family.
In summary, earning as much money as is humanly possible should not be anyone’s main concern.
Granted, it arguably brings financial stability, for individuals and for their families, but it is simply not
worth tolerating a lifetime of unhappiness at work purely for the money.
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dependency on technology
We are becoming increasingly dependent on computer-based technology. How do you think it
will change in the future? Is it good for us to rely so much on computers?
It would be difficult to imagine life without computers. Over recent years in particular, their use and
potential have grown at an incredible rate and I strongly believe that this growth will continue as more
innovative ways to use them are developed. Although there are definitely some downsides to their use, I
do believe the positives outweigh the negatives.
Computers enable us to do a wealth of tasks that would have been unthinkable for previous generations.
We can bank online, book holidays, do our weekly shopping – the list of labour
-saving activities is almost endless. Given the speed at which they have evolved and altered the way we
do things, I am convinced that this evolutionary trend will continue. Take, for example, the rise of
virtual reality. We can already do amazing things with it, and, as a computer-based technology, it is only
in its infancy. It has so many practical applications, from improving gaming to providing training for
doctors or pilots to handle real-life situations. As computer processing power increases, so will its
potential to enhance everything we do.
Despite this, there are dangers in relying quite so heavily on computers. So much of our daily lives is
controlled by them, that without them, modern-day life as we know it would be impossible.
Furthermore, computers store all our important data and the risk of hacking exposes us to crimes such
as fraud. However, I would argue that the technological advances made possible by computers have
improved our world in so many ways. I believe that most people would argue that any negative aspects
of computers are outweighed by all the benefits they have brought.
In conclusion, I believe we will probably become more dependent on computers but that our lives will
improve as the technology improves. While there is a negative side to such a dependency, there are
many more positives that we can focus on.
137
January 1, 2020
136.
Preserving cultures
Some believe that people today have no interest in maintaining the traditional culture of their
country or region. Others believe that it is still important to people that we preserve a
traditional way of life. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Today we live in a globalized world and the development of global culture is often at the expense o local
traditions. There are certainly many people who show indifference to local customs in favour of
embracing global ideas, but there are still many who see the value in maintaining them, myself included.
It is easy to argue that people are strongly influenced by the effects of globalization. Technology in
particular seems to dominate the leisure time of young people, whether it be gadgets or the Internet. As
a result, there are trends which can be described as global in all aspects of culture. For instance, many
people now prefer listening to music by Ed Sheeran or Beyoncé rather than the traditional music of
their country, which is often seen as outdated by comparison. Similarly, many would rather try exotic
‘foreign’ foods than use traditional recipes, which they might see as dull or old-fashioned.
However, it would be a mistake to think that everyone thinks this way. Older people especially feel
nostalgia for how things used to be done. For example, in the UK, the Royal Family are as popular as
ever, and thousands of people turn out to see them wherever they go. It should also be remembered that
any of today’s global pop stars were themselves inspired by more traditional genres of music. Ed
Sheeran, for example, embodies many musical traditions, such as folk music and busking. In the same
way, it is still common to see performances of more traditional forms of music, such as classical and
jazz.
My own opinion is that there is truth in both views. There are certainly people so focused on global
trends that there is so space in their lives for, or interest in, preserving the past. On the other hand, there
are many who prefer to live in their lives more nostalgically and value the traditions that have been
handed down. I would say that I belong more to this second group of people, although I admit I would
struggle without the Internet.
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