IELTS General Reading Test
SECS
TASK 1
TASK 2
ANSWERS
Task 1
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.
“A friend of yours is thinking of going on a camping holiday for the first time this summer. He/She
has asked for your advice.”
Write a letter to your friend. In your letter
• explain why you think your friend would enjoy a camping holiday
• describe some possible disadvantages
• say whether you would like to go camping with your friend this
summer
Write at least 150 words.
You do NOT need to write any addresses
Begin your letter as follows:
Dear ……,
Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
“In many countries today, crime novels and TV crime dramas are becoming more and more popular.
“
Why do you think these books and TV shows are popular?
What is your opinion of crime fiction and TV crime dramas?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from
your own
knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
ANSWERS
TASK 1 ANSWER
This is an answer written by a candidate who achieved a Band 9.0 score.
Dear [Friend’s Name],
I hope this letter finds you well. I was thrilled to hear that you’re considering a
camping holiday this summer and I’d be delighted to offer you some advice
based on my own experiences.
First and foremost, I truly believe that you would thoroughly enjoy a camping
adventure. It’s a fantastic way to disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily
life and immerse yourself in the beauty of nature. The sense of freedom, the
fresh air, and the simplicity of outdoor living can be incredibly rejuvenating.
Whether it’s waking up to the sound of birdsong, stargazing by the campfire, or
exploring hiking trails, camping offers unique experiences that are hard to
replicate elsewhere.
However, there are a few possible disadvantages to keep in mind. Weather can
be unpredictable, so it’s essential to be prepared for rain or sudden temperature
changes. Additionally, setting up tents and cooking outdoors might require some
adjustment if you’re not accustomed to it. Proper planning and the right gear can
go a long way in minimizing these challenges.
As for camping together this summer, I would absolutely love to join you! It could
be a great opportunity for us to bond and share this exciting adventure. We can
plan together, divide tasks, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Please let me know your thoughts, and we can start discussing potential camping
destinations, equipment, and dates. I’m confident that with the right preparation
and a positive attitude, we can have an amazing camping experience that will
leave us both with wonderful memories.
Looking forward to your response!
Warm regards, [Your Name]
TASK 2 ANSWER
This is an answer written by a candidate who achieved a Band 9 score.
The growing popularity of crime novels and TV crime dramas in numerous
countries can be attributed to their ability to captivate audiences by tapping into
their fascination with suspense, mystery, and human psychology. This trend
reflects a convergence of factors such as the allure of complex narratives, the
thrill of solving puzzles, and the opportunity to explore the darker facets of human
nature.
One key reason for the popularity of crime fiction is its inherent ability to engage
readers and viewers with intricate storylines. The gradual unraveling of a mystery
and the suspense surrounding the identity of the perpetrator keeps audiences
invested in the plot. This engagement is further enhanced by the challenge of
piecing together clues and attempting to solve the puzzle before the characters
do, stimulating cognitive engagement and critical thinking.
Moreover, crime fiction and TV crime dramas offer a glimpse into the psychology
of criminals and detectives alike. The exploration of motives, emotions, and the
cat-and-mouse dynamics between investigators and wrongdoers adds a layer of
complexity that appeals to our innate curiosity about human behavior. These
stories often delve into the moral ambiguity of characters and situations,
provoking discussions on ethical dilemmas and justice.
In my opinion, crime fiction and TV crime dramas serve as a means of escapism,
allowing audiences to experience thrilling scenarios from a safe distance.
However, it’s important to note that their popularity also raises questions about
the impact of exposure to violence and crime on the audience’s psyche. While
some argue that these genres desensitize individuals to real-world violence,
others contend that they offer a platform for exploring societal issues and
stimulating conversations about crime prevention and law enforcement.
Personally, I find crime fiction and TV crime dramas to be a captivating genre
that provides both entertainment and intellectual stimulation. I appreciate their
ability to challenge my analytical skills and moral reasoning, all while immersing
me in suspenseful narratives. Nevertheless, it’s important to approach these
genres with a critical mindset and recognize the boundary between fictional
portrayals and reality.
In conclusion, the surge in popularity of crime novels and TV crime dramas can
be attributed to their ability to engage audiences through intricate narratives and
psychological exploration. While they offer a valuable means of entertainment
and thought-provocation, a discerning approach is necessary to ensure a
balanced perspective on the themes they present. (Words: 304)
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