Mindset for IELTS-Foundation

How Mindset for IELTS Foundation helps with writing skill?

Writing- In the Foundation level students develop their writing skills for everyday communication; become familiar with
the type of tasks for Part 1 and 2 of the IELTS test; and learn about how these types of writing can be developed and in
respect to exam type tasks, how they will be assessed.

Unit 1

1.1 Read the information about the daily routines of a student at UK University. Complete the text using the verbs in
brackets in the correct form.

Dan usually --------------------- (get up) at 8 am, --------------------- (have) a shower and --------------------- (eat) breakfast. After
that, he always --------------------- (get) his books ready and then --------------------- (go) to his lectures until midday. He
usually --------------------- (return) home and --------------------- (make) lunch for himself at about 12:30 pm. Then, he
sometimes --------------------- (watch) a bit of TV. At about 3 pm, they sometimes --------------------- (go) to the library
together. Dan always --------------------- (study) for a few hours and then at around 6:30 pm he --------------------- (go) home.
He usually --------------------- (go) home. He usually --------------------- (cook) dinner for him-self and his flat mates. In the
evening, he sometimes --------------------- (exercise) at the gym or goes for a run. After that, he relaxes in front of the TV or
--------------------- (see) his friends. He never goes to bed early, but usually --------------------- (fall) asleep at around
midnight.

Writing: Describing a Daily Routine

1.2 Look again at the information in Exercise 1. Write about your daily routine and the activities you do every day.
Tip 1

I sometimes do the laundry. I never make dinner. My brother often takes out the bins. Look at the highlighted
words in Exercise 1 to
see how often Dan does
his activities.

Writing: A description

1.3 Look at the two pictures showing Julia Grant, a volunteer on a science project. Using the pictures, write a
description of Julia’s daily routine. In your description, you should:

● begin like this: Julia Grant is 21 years old and works as a volunteer on a science project in Fiji. Every morning, she …

● write what activities she does and what time she does them.

● use sequencing words: After that… that …/ Next…/ Then …

● use adverbs of frequency

Unit 2

Writing an Email to a Friend about Accommodation

2.1 Read the email Giorgio received from his friend Gavin. Choose the best answer, A, B, or C.

The main reason for writing is:

A to say thank you to Giorgio.

B to ask Giorgio for advice.

C to tell Giorgio that he likes university.

2.2 Look at Giorgio’s reply. He does not use correct punctuation or capital letters. Re-write the email and correct the
mistakes.

2.3 Imagine you are Gavin. Reply to Giorgio and answer his questions. Then ask him two questions about his
accommodation. Write 60-80 words.
 Unit 3

Writing: Responding To a Message from a Friend

3.1 Read some information about a film festival and an email you received from your friend, Andrew. Then, complete
the notes.

Film festival with Andrew

Place: (0) Sunnyhill Park

Date we will go: 1 ---------------------

Cost for me: 2--------------------------

Time to meet Andrew: 3 --------------------

Film we will see: 4 ---------------------------

What to take: 5 -------------------------------

3.2 You and Andrew are now at the film festival. You receive a message on your phone from another friend, Richard.
Read the message. What does Richard want to do?

Hi Joshua,

Where are you? Are you busy? I’m watching TV at home at the moment but I’m really bored.

Do you want to meet up? Let me know soon!

Richard
3.3 Write a message in reply to Richard in Exercise 3.2. In your message, you should include:

● where you are Model Answer

● who you are with Hi Richard,

● what you are doing Yes, that would be great! I’m in Sunnyhill Park at the
moment, at a film festival, with Andrew.
● what is happening
We’re watching Child in Time now- it’s fantastic! You
● where you can meet Richard
can walk around and see any film you like. Send me a
● what Richard should bring message if you can come and I’ll meet you at the
entrance when you arrive. Bring some money for food
and an umbrella as it may rain.

See you soon,

Joshua

Unit 4

Writing: Emails

4.1 You are going to read an email from your friend Simon about his holiday. Take two minutes to read the email
quickly and answer the questions.

1 Where did he go?

2 Why was this holiday different to his trips before?

4.2 Read the email again. Then, complete the email using the correct form of the verbs in brackets.

4.3 Look again at Simon’s email. In the table below, tick √ the features in his email that he uses.
 Feature √ ?

1 He uses a greeting to start the email.

2 He says where he went on holiday.
3 He says how he travelled there.
4 He says how long he stayed.
5 He says what he did on holiday.
6 He says what he usually does on holiday.
7 He asks about his friend’s last holiday.
8 He asks about his friend’s next holiday.
9 He finishes with his name at the end.

4.4 Now, read the task and write your email. Use table in 4.3 for correct writing.

Your friend, Hannah, wants to know about your last holiday. She wants to know where you went and what you did.
Write and email to your friend. In your email you should:

● say where you went

● say what you did there.

● ask your friend about his/ her last holiday.

● Write 150-175 words.

Unit 5

5.1 Read the instructions about making Korean dish called Bugogi and look at the pictures. Firs, put the pictures A-F in
the correct order.
First, take 1 ---------------- large onion and 2 ---------------- spring onions and 3 ---------------- into small pieces.

Then, in a large bowl put 4 ---------------- soy sauce and 5 ---------------- cup of cold water.

After this, add the onions and spring onions and 6 ---------------- them all together.

Then, you will need to take your beef and 7 ---------------- it into slices and then add it to the ingredients in the bowl. Put
the bowl into the fridge for four hours. Afterwards, remove the meat from the bowl and 8 ---------------- for 5-10 minutes.

Finally, put the food on the plate and serve to your friends. Add salt and pepper if you wish.

5.2 Now, complete the instructions using a/ some or a verb.

1 ---------------- 2 ---------------- 3 ---------------- 4 ----------------

5 ---------------- 6 ---------------- 7 ---------------- 8 ----------------

Writing: Describing a Progress

5.3 Look again at the reading in Exercise 5.1. Write the instructions of a meal that you know how to cook or prepare.

Tip 1
You might be asked to write about a
process in the exam so it is important to
practice linking your ideas together.
Look at the sequencing words
highlighted in Exercise 5.1 to see how
the parts of the instructions are linked.

Unit 6

Writing: A Longer Piece of Continuous Writing

6.1 Read the task.

This is part of an email you receive from an English pen-friend, Sandy.

I’m coming to your country next month on holiday. Where do you think I should go and why are those places interesting?
What’s the best way for me to travel around?

• Now write a letter, answering Sandy’s questions.

• Write your letter in about 100 words.

6.2 Before you write your email, plan your answer. Make notes on each questions Sandy asks. Think about the
vocabulary and grammar you can use.

6.3 Now, write your email.

You can begin like this:

Hi Sandy,

I’m really pleased you’re coming to visit my country. The first place you should visit is …

Useful linkers to include

If so because after that

Unit 7

Writing: An Email for a Summer Job

7.1 Read an email you received with an advertisement about summer jobs. In pairs, read the task and discuss what
you could write in your email.

If you are interested in applying for one of our summer jobs, fill in an application form with your details and which job
you want to do, and send it to me Simon Stone, summer job co-ordinator.

In your application, you should:

• say which job you are interested in.

• say what skills and abilities you have.

• say what skills you didn’t have in the past but you do have now.

Write your email in about 60-80 words.

7.2 Now, look at a student’s email replying to summer jobs advertisement.

What job does she want to do?

7.3 Now, read Laura’s email again in Exercise 18. In the table, tick √ the features she uses in her email.
 Feature √

She says which job she is interested in.

She says what skills she has.
She says what skills she didn’t have in the past but does now.
She uses a good structure-greeting to start the email and ends with her name.
She uses the correct and appropriate grammar.
She only talks about the information in the instructions.
She uses the correct number of words.

Unit 8

Writing: An Email to a Friend Giving Advice

8.1 Look at the task and read the email. Then, answer the question.

Your friend Alice has asked her friends for advice about being healthy. Another friend, Helen, has replied to her email.

1 What activities does Helen say are a good idea?

8.2 Use the information you learnt in this unit to write an email in reply to your friend Alice. In your email, you
should:

• say what activities Alice can do to stay healthy.

• include types of healthy activities and ways to relax.

• say why it is important to stay healthy.

• use should/ shouldn’t should not/ have to/don’t have to/ do not have to.

• write 80-100 words.

Unit 9

Writing: Short Essay on a Topic

9.1 Think about the questions.

1 What type of information do you find in a dictionary?

2 Do you prefer to use a paper dictionary or a dictionary on the internet? Why?

9.2 Read the essay question. Then, make notes about how you could answer the question.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of using an online dictionary in a language class?

Example: It is easy and quick to look up a word that you don’t know.

9.3 Read the names of four parts of an essay. Organise the parts in the correct order.

A Paragraph (disadvantage)

B Conclusion

C Introduction

D Paragraph (advantage)

9.4 Read a student\s essay answering the question in exercise 22. Don’t worry about the gaps for now.

Many students use an online dictionary to help them learn a language when they study in class. In this essay, I 1
---------------------------------- discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this.

Firstly, if a student doesn’t 2 ---------------------------------- the meaning of a word or phrase, they can find it quickly and
easily with an online dictionary. The teacher can continue with the class and doesn’t need to stop and answer questions
all the time.

Furthermore, a paper dictionary is sometimes too heavy and students don’t like to carry one in their bags.

On the other hand, when a student is not very confident, or if they are afraid of 3 ---------------------------------- a mistake,
they might start to use their dictionary in the wrong way. If they stop to 4 ---------------------------------- every word or
phrase they do not know, they won’t 5 ---------------------------------- their languages skills enough and they won’t improve.

Additionally, it is very difficult for a teacher to check that the students are 6 ---------------------------------- their computers
to look 7 ---------------------------------- a word and not just playing online games. If they do not focus on the class, they
won’t 8 ---------------------------------- any progress.

To sum up, an online dictionary is often useful for students. However, in my opinion, students should only go online
when the teacher says to do so. If not, they won’t learn for themselves.

9.5 Read the student’s essay again in exercise 9.4 and choose the best answer, A ,B or C.

1 A am going B going to C am going to

2 A see B know C think

3 A having B doing C making

4 A look B see C check

5 A practice B try C speak

6 A using B use C used

7 A up B at C to

8 A do B make C have

9.6 Now, look at the words in hold in the essay that the student uses to organize ideas. Complete the table using the
words or phrases in hold.
 In the essay, decide which words or phrases introduce:
The main idea of a paragraph at the start of the essay 1-------------------------------------------------------------------------
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Extra information about an idea 2 ------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 ------------------------------------------------------------------------
A new, different idea 4 ------------------------------------------------------------------------
5 ------------------------------------------------------------------------
The conclusion 6 ------------------------------------------------------------------------

9.7 Write an essay about a topic. The topic of your essay is:

What are the advantages and disadvantages of taking English lessons with classmates from the same country?

In your essay, you should include:

• a clear introduction and conclusion, ad main paragraphs discussing the topic.

• words and phrases to organize ideas.

• Advantages and disadvantages.

You should write 220-250.

Unit 10

Writing: Describing a Graph

10.1 Look at the line graph and describe the way each line in the graph changes.

1 Smartphone: ---------------------

2 Laptop: --------------------------
3 Smart watch: ------------------------

4 Tablet: ----------------------------
Mindset for IELTS-1

Unit 1 RELATIONSHIP

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• describe a process {Writing Part 1)

• use sequencing expressions to describe the order of stages in a process

• use the present simple passive to describe a process

• write an introduction and overview.

Lead in

1 What foods do you eat at a family celebration? Do you know how to prepare them? Do you need any special
equipment?

2 In Sri Lanka, a family meal often includes string hoppers. To make string hoppers you need some special equipment.

Choose the best description of each piece of equipment.

1 String hopper press

A It has two parts which are different in shape

but the same size. It is made of a light material

such as plastic.

B It's made of heavy metal and has two parts

which are similar in shape. The centre is round

and there are handles on each side. One part

fits into the other.

C It has two parts and one goes on top of the

other. It is square in shape and made of wood.

2 String hopper mats 3 Rice grinder

A These are round shallow baskets A It is made of metal and the top and

made of thin pieces of wood. The bottom are the same size and shape.

wood is in a crisscross pattern B It is a metal machine with a wide

to form large holes. base and a narrow tray on top.

B These are cloth triangles with C It is a machine made of metal with

very small holes in them. a wide tray at the top and a narrower base.

C These are thick pieces of wood

with rectangular holes in them.

3 Complete the chart with words from exercise 2

PART 1: DESCRIBING A PROCESS

Tip 1
4 The pictures show the process of making string hoppers. Don't worry if you don't know about
the topic. The notes and pictures
Match the short instructions to the pictures.
give you the ideas and vocabulary
you need.

Complete the chart with words from exercise 2.

Materials Parts

- --t------ -

p�ic I handles

Shapes

round

PART 1: DESCRIBING A PROCESS] Don't worry if you don't

know about the topic. The

notes and pictures give you

the ideas and vocabulary

a push through the string hopper press onto the

string hopper mats

b add water to the flour

c put the rice into the grinder and grind into flour

d cook in a steamer

e serve with spicy curries

f mix well to form a dough

 Grammar Focus: The Present Simple Passive

5 Complete the sentences about tea. Use the verbs in brackets in the present simple passive.

1 Tea leaves ---------------------------- (pick) by hand.

2 Only the best leaves ---------------------------- (use).

3 A lot of water ---------------------------- (need)

to grow tea plants successfully.

4 A lot of tea ---------------------------- (grow) in

China and India.

Grammar Focus: Sequencing Words

6 Complete the sentences about making string hoppers with words from the box.
After Finally First Next The next stage Then
Tip 2
1 ---------------------------, the rice is put through a grinder. When describing the stages in a
process, it is important to use
2 --------------------------- that, water is added to the flour. sequencing, for example first, then,
3 --------------------------- it is mixed and made into a dough. next, to clearly show the order of
the stages.
4 --------------------------- is to push the dough through the string hopper press.

5 --------------------------- the string hoppers are placed in a steamer.

6 ---------------------------, they are served with spicy curries.

Writing An Introduction And Overview

7 Which of these is an introduction and which is an overview?

a There are six stages in the process of making string hoppers, beginning

with grinding the rice and making a dough and ending with using a

steamer to cook the string hoppers.

b The diagram demonstrates the process of preparing string hoppers,

a kind of noodle.

8 Which of these are NOT overviews?

a The process of making blue cheese can be seen in this series of pictures.

b To make a perfect omelette you need fresh ingredients, the right equipment and

the correct technique. You must also cook it for the correct amount of time and

pay attention to the temperature.

c The production of tea involves a range of stages, from picking the leaves from the

plant to drying and distributing it.

d The diagram shows the various stages in the process of making strawberry jam.

The first stage is to pick the strawberries when they are ripe.

Studying A Model Answer

9 Study the essay opposite and find:

1 the introduction

2 the overview

3 sequencing expressions

4 verbs in the present simple passive

5 descriptions of the equipment

6 vocabulary from the short instructions

in exercise 4

10 Look at the pictures, which show the process of making cherry jam.

Complete the sentences with a verb from the box in the correct form.
1 A sheet is --------------------- on the ground and the tree is --------------------- to get the cherries.

2 The cherries are and are --------------------- to the processing plant.

3 The leaves and stems are ---------------------

4 The cherries are ---------------------

5 The stone is --------------------- out of the middle of the cherry.

6 The cherries are and extra ingredients are ---------------------.

7 The quality of the jam is ---------------------

8 The jam is --------------------- into jars.

9 A label is --------------------- on the jars.

Exam Skill
11 pictures show the process of making cherry jam.

Describe the process. Tip 3

Use the words on the pictures
Remember to: and diagrams in your answer.
• include an introduction and an overview They are given to help you.

• use the present simple passive

• use sequencing expressions

• write 150 words.

Unit 2 PACES AND BUILDINGS

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• describe changes over time as shown on a map

• use prepositions to explain location

• use past tense verb forms (active and passive) to describe change.

Lead-In

1 Which of these facilities do you expect to find on a university campus?

bank bus stop car park halls of residence

gym library laboratories lecture theatres

cafes post office tennis courts recreation area

2 Look at the maps of Sunnyhill University campus in 1995 and today.

Which facilities can you see?
GRAMMAR FOCUS: PREPOSITIONS OF PLACE

3 Look again at the map of Sunnyhill University campus today. Which of these sentences are true?

1 The Founder's Building is between the Watson Building and the Scott Library.

2 The bus stop is in the upper right-hand corner of the campus.

Tip 1
3 The halls of residence are opposite the Students' Union. Prepositions are important in any
task including maps. It is important
4 There are two car parks on the campus. to say exactly where things are
5 There are two places to eat on the campus. located in relation to other places.

6 The main reception is in the middle of the campus.

7 The Students' Union moved to a different building between 1995 and today.

8 The car park was moved towards the bottom of the campus.

4 Complete the sentences about the 1995 campus map using the prepositions in the box.

between in next to of of opposite to

1 The tennis courts were ------------------------ the football pitch.

2 The Founder's Building was in the middle ------------------------ the campus.

3 The Scott Library was ------------------------ the halls of residence and the football pitch.

4 The cafe was ------------------------ the football pitch.

5 There were two car parks ------------------------ the campus.

6 The gym was ------------------------ the bottom right-hand corner of the campus.

7 The Watson Building was ------------------------ the left of the Founder's Building.

8 The main reception was part ------------------------ the Watson Building.

5 Complete the sentences to describe the map of the campus today to your partner.
You can use the expressions in the box.

between in front of in the top right-hand corner

next to on the left opposite

1 The halls of residence...

2 The laboratories...

3 The bus stop...

4 The recreation area...

5 The table tennis tables...

6 The Students' Union...

DESCRIBING CHANGES IN A MAP

6 Read this Writing Part 1 task.

You should spend 20 minutes on this task.

Look at the two maps of Sunnyhills University campus in 1995 and today.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

You should write at least 150 words.

7 There are three important parts in a Part 1 essay. Match the parts 1-3 with their

meanings a-c. Then find them in the model answer.

1 The introductory sentence

2 The concluding sentence

3 The overview

a A summary of the main points

b A description of what the data shows

c Writing the most important points

again in different words

 Vocabulary

8 Find these in the model answer:

1 verbs describing change

2 expressions describing where things are

9 The underlined words in the model answer are useful for any essay. Among them, find two expressions which:

1 mean 'and'

2 mean 'but'

3 refer to time

4 refer to what you see in the chart or diagram

10 Find words in the model answer with these meanings.

Tip 2
1 moved to a different place
It is important to use plenty of different words
2 made (2 words) in the essay to show you have a wide
vocabulary. Make a list of similar words in
3 knocked down
your notebook and try to use them when
4 got bigger (2 words) writing your practice essays.

GRAMMAR FOCUS: PAST SIMPLE – REGULAR AND IRREGULAR FORMS

11 Find these past tense forms in the model answer. Which of them are irregular?
What are the infinitives of these verbs?

expanded changed created made built

increased developed moved was

12 These sentences could also be used to describe the maps. Put the verb in brackets
into the past tense to complete the sentences.

1 They ----------------------- (cut) down trees to build the halls of residence.

2 The old cafe ----------------------- (become) the new library.

3 In 1995 students ----------------------- (catch) the bus outside the Students' Union.

4 The university ----------------------- (need) laboratories.

5 They ----------------------- (put) table tennis tables in front of the Scott Library.

6 There ----------------------- (be) not enough halls of residence in 1995.

7 They ----------------------- (dig) a pond in the recreation area.

8 They ----------------------- (plant) lots of new trees.

Two of the verbs are regular. Which ones?

GRAMMAR FOCUS: PAST SIMPLE - ACTIVE AND PASSIVE

13 Read the information about active and passive verbs.

Are sentences 1-4 about the map active or passive?

1 The library was relocated to the right of the Founder's Building.

2 They also built two new cafes.

3 The university created a new recreation area.

4 The old gym and tennis courts were demolished.

14 Change these sentences from active to passive.

1 The university expanded the campus. The campus was expanded.

2 They planted trees in the recreation area.

3 The authorities moved the bus stop.

4 They built a new main reception.

EXAM SKILLS
15 Answer the task below. Take as much time as you need and try to write 150 words.
The verbs in the box may be useful. Check the meaning of any unknown words.

add build construct create develop expand move plant trees

The maps below show Co/wick Arts Centre in 2005 and today.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Remember to:
• write an introductory sentence
• include an overview
• use the present simple and past simple, both active and passive
• use prepositions to explain where things are/were.
UNIT 3: EDUCATION AND EMPLOYMENT

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• describe different types of data

• describe changes in numbers

• use prepositions with numbers

Lead-In

1 Match the diagrams with their names. Which of them describe changes to numbers over time?

table bar chart pie chart line graph

DESCRIBING CHANGES IN NUMBERS

2 Put the words into the correct column. Are they verbs (V), nouns (N) or both?
3 Write the past simple and past participle forms of the verbs.

4 Use the correct verb or noun form of one of the words from above to complete the sentences about the table.

1 The number of new entrants to primary teaching ------------------ during the period.
2 There was a ------------------ from 2007/08 to 2009/10.
3 There was a steady ------------------ in numbers from 2009/10 to 2015/16.
4 The numbers ------------------ again this year.
 Tip 1

GRAPHS AND BAR CHARTS Select information that is

important – don’t include
5 Which is the better description of the line graph: A or B? Why? everything. You must
A The graph shows the percentage of include some data to
graduates in the UK population between support your description.
1990 and 2015. In 1990 17% of the population
of the UK were graduates. This rose to 20% in
1995 and 24% in 2000. In 2005, it went up to
29%, in 2010 to 34% and up to 38% in 2015.
B The graph shows an upward trend in the % of
graduates in the population between 1990
and 2015. The percentage rose gradually
throughout the period. It increased by about
3 to 5% every five years, for example
between 1990 and 1995 it increased from
17 to 20%.

6 Read sentences 1-9 about the bar chart, and answer the questions.

1 Which TWO sentences should 2 Which of the other sentences include the

NOT be included? most important information about the bar

chart, do you think?

1 There were about 330,000 18-year-olds

in full-time education.

2 Work-based learning is really useful for

young people.

3 60,000 were in employer-funded training.

4 Around 70,000 of the age group were

involved in work-based learning.

5 Only about 50,000 were in the 'other

education and training' category.

6 There were three times more 18-year-olds

in full-time education than in employment.

7 The situation is very different in my country.

8 About 90,000 were not in employment, education or training.

9 More 18-year-olds were in employment than not in employment, education or training.

7 Complete the sentences with a preposition from the box.

between in from of of to by

1 17% --------------- the population are graduates.

2 The number --------------- graduates went up.

3 It rose --------------- 21% --------------- 29%.

4 It increased --------------- about 4%.

5 --------------- 1992 and 1996 there was an increase.

6 There was a rise --------------- graduate numbers during the 1990s.

STUDYING A MODEL ANSWER

8 Read the model answer and find:

1 the introductory sentence

2 the overview

3 a description of data

4 some data to support the descriptions

5 past simple verb forms

6 a present perfect verb form

The chart below shows the percentage of

unemployed recent graduates and young

non-graduates aged 21 to 30 between 1990

and 2015.

Why is the past simple used more than

the present perfect?

DESCRIBING A PIE CHART
9 Which country matches these phrases? Which English-speaking country do foreign
students want to study in?

1 over a third

2 a little under a third

3 the lowest number of students

4 about 1 in 10
Tip 2
5 just under a sixth
In your descriptions,
6 the most popular country include phrases like these,
as well as the actual
7 the country in second place
numbers.
8 the least popular country

EXAM SKILLS
10 Look at the Writing Part 1 task below. Before you start writing, answer these questions about the graph.

1 What are the two groups in green and purple?

2 What do the vertical and horizontal axes show?

3 Which two regions had the highest literacy rates?

4 How many regions show different literacy rates for men and women?

5 Which region shows the biggest difference between men and women?

6 What are the male and female literacy rates in the least literate region?

7 What is the percentage difference between the most and least literate areas?

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar chart shows the literacy rate (% of people who can read and write) by region and gender in 2011.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

11 Write your answer.

Remember to:

• include introductory and concluding sentences and an overview

• use expressions with prepositions

• use the past simple tense.

Unit 4: FOOD AND DRINK

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• deal with a Part 1 question with two diagrams

• describe data without exact numbers

• compare data in a pie chart

• decide what information to include.

Lead-In

1 Read the task and look at the diagrams below.

The charts below show the favourite takeaways of people in the UK and

the number of Indian restaurants in the UK between 1960 and 2015.

Summarise the information in both charts by selecting and reporting

the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

Diagram 1

Favourite takeaways in the UK Diagram 2

(A takeaway is a meal you buy in a restaurant Number of Indian restaurants in the UK

or shop to eat at home.)

2 Look at the following expressions. Which are more suitable for diagram 1 and which are more suitable for

diagram 2?

1 the highest proportion of people

2 only a very small number of people

3 there has been a steady increase

4 a very small drop

5 about a third of people

6 approximately a quarter of people

7 the greatest rise took place

DESCRIBING TWO DIAGRAMS

INTRODUCTION AND OVERVIEW
3 Complete this introductory sentence and overview. Write one word in each gap.

The 1 ---------------------- chart shows which type of takeaway food is the most

popular in the UK, while the 2 ---------------------- chart shows how many Indian
Tip 3
restaurants existed in the UK between 3 ---------------------- and 4 ----------------------.
When you are working with two
We can see that 5 ---------------------- and
diagrams, you are first sentence
Indian takeaways are the favourites, and that the number of Indian restaurants should introduce both of them and
your overview should summarise
in the UK 6 ---------------------- steadily during this period. both of them.

DESCRIBING NUMBERS IN A PIE CHART

4 Match the percentages from the pie chart with their descriptions.

1 34% a a tiny proportion

2 26% b about a quarter

3 10% c just over a third

4 1% d one in ten

MAKING COMPARISONS
5 Look at diagram 1 and complete the sentences about the pie chart with the words in the box. One word is used
twice.
Fewer least less more most

1 The ------------------------ popular type of takeaway is Chinese.

2 The three ------------------------ popular types are Mexican, Greek and Japanese.

3 Italian takeaways are slightly ------------------------ popular than British takeaways.

4 Japanese food is ------------------------ popular than Thai food.

5 ------------------------ people like Chinese food than Indian food.

6 ------------------------ people like Mexican food than Thai food.

GRAMMAR FOCUS: COUNTABLE AND UNCOUNTABLE NOUNS

6 Choose the correct words to make true sentences.

1 More and less are used with countable/ uncountable nouns.

2 More and fewer are used with countable/ uncountable nouns.

7 Put the nouns into the correct column.

restaurant coffee language meat farm oil country

person home animal land sand

8 Complete the sentences with more, less or fewer. Use the information in the chart.

1 China has -------------------------------- land than India.

2 India has -------------------------------- land than China.

3 In India, -------------------------------- people live in cities than in China.

4 India has -------------------------------- official languages than China.

GRAMMAR FOCUS: ARTICLES

9 Correct the errors with articles in these sentences about diagrams 1 and 2.

1 Number of Indian restaurants in UK has risen.

2 The Chinese food is the most popular.

3 Second most popular food is Indian.

4 There was small drop in the number of Indian restaurants in 2011.

5 There were about thousand Indian restaurants in 1970.

DESCRIBING DIAGRAMS WITHOUT EXACT NUMBERS

10 Some graphs or charts do not give the exact numbers. It is important to show that the number you use is not exact.
Match these numbers with their description.

1 8950 a approximately 4000

2 2019 b about a hundred

3 500,070 c just under 9000

4 3946 d between 7000 and 7500

5 103 e around half a million

6 7223 f a little over 2000

11 Look at these examples from a description of diagram 2.

There were about 500 Indian restaurants in the UK in 1960.

The number rose from approximately 5000 in i990 to just under 8000 in 2000.

The figure for 1997 was around 7500.

From 2007 to 2015 the number of restaurants was between 9000 and 9500.

In 1970 there were a little over 1000 Indian restaurants.

Use the expressions in bold to complete the sentences about diagram 3, which shows the market share of four
supermarkets.

1 In 1995, Foodhall had -----------------------20% of the market,

while Finco had ----------------------- 20%.

2 In 1995, Bestway's share of the market

was ----------------------- 5%.

3 In 2005, all the supermarkets had

-----------------------11% and 30% of the

market.

4 In both 2005 and 2015, Alton's share of

the market was -----------------------16%.

5 Finco had the biggest market share in

2005, which was -----------------------30%.

STUDYING A MODEL ANSWER: AVOIDING 'outside' INFORMATION

12 d the model answer, which is based on diagrams 1 and 2. Two sentences should not be included. Can you find
them?

13 Read the model answer again and find:

1 the overview

2 a sentence that explains the link between the two charts

3 a comparison

4 a passive form

5 a way of saying '1990 to 2000'

6 an expression meaning 'has not changed much'

7 an expression used to avoid exact numbers

Tip 2
Never include any information
that is not shown in the
diagram. Even if you know a lot
about the data given, do not try
to explain the reasons for it or
give your own opinion.

EXAM SKILLS
14 Read the exam question below and study the charts, then answer these questions about the data.

1 What is the main trend revealed in the bar chart?

2 Which ten-year period showed the first significant increase?

3 What happened in the ten-year period after that?

4 What is the link between the two charts?

5 In 2015, what percentage of people were severely obese?

6 Which was the largest group in 2015?

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The bar chart shows the percentage of adults who were overweight or obese (too fat or much too fat) in one country
from 1965 to 2015. The pie chart shows the proportion of adults who were overweight, obese or severely obese in
2015.
Sumarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.
Write at least 150 words
Percentage of adults who are overweight or obese Weight range of the adult population 2015
Now write your report. Remember:

• Include an overview.

• Don't try to include all the data.

• Don't include anything from outside the data.

UNIT 5: CONSUMERISM
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• organise a Part 2 essay

• write an introduction

• write about points for and against, and give opinions

• give examples and evidence to support your views.

LEAD-IN

1 Put the words and phrases into the correct column.

Advantages disadvantages negative aspects Good points in my view

all things considered drawbacks positive aspects benefits personally

2 These sentences are from an essay on the advantages and disadvantages of shopping online. Are they talking about
good points (G), bad points (B) or giving an opinion (O)?
Write G, B or 0. The first one has been done for you.

1 A wider range of products is available online. G

2 You can't try on clothes and shoes if you buy online. -------

3 I prefer going to shops and choosing things in person. -------

4 There is no need to carry heavy shopping to your car. -------

5 You save money on petrol, parking or bus fares. -------

6 Goods might be delivered when you are out. -------

7 It isn't a good idea to give your credit card details online. -------

8 You often have to pay a lot for postage and wait for your goods. -------

9 I think it is better to support local shops. -------

PART 2 QUESTION TYPE

3 Three of the question types you might find in Part 2 are: Tip 3
1 Do you agree (or disagree) that...? Read newspapers and
websites to find out
2 Do the advantages/benefits of ... outweigh the disadvantages/drawbacks?
about current issues.
3 Discuss two different views and give your opinion.

Match the question types 1-3 with what you have to do (a-c).

a Say if you think there are more good points than bad points.

b Write about both sides and say what you think.

c Give your opinion on this.

4 Look at the following question.

Do you agree that supermarkets are a threat to small shops and local communities? Tip 4
Decide on your own opinion. Choose from Avoid being totally neutral:
these options. even if you don't have an
opinion on the topic, it is better
A I strongly agree. Supermarkets will forcesmall shops to close and this will damage to agree or disagree. Choose
the side you can find most
local communities.
points for.
B I agree to some extent. There may be a slight threat to small shops and local

communities.

C I generally disagree. There is a place for both small shops and supermarkets.

D I strongly disagree. Supermarkets will not have an impact on small shops and local communities.
5 The same topic could be expressed as a different question type:

Are these advantages or disadvantages of supermarkets?

1 They are cheap.

2 There are many different products.

3 You often need a car to get there.

4 You don't usually meet your friends there.

5 Food is usually fresh.

6 There are sometimes queues at the checkout.

7 There is plenty of free parking.

8 Small shops lose their customers.

WRITING AN INTRODUCTION

6 Which of these, A or B, is the better introduction for the essay topic in exercise 5?

Give reasons.

A I totally agree that the advantages of supermarkets outweigh the disadvantages. There are many benefits - cheap
prices, plenty of choice, late opening hours, and only a few drawbacks. In this essay I will explain my opinion.

B Nowadays you can find a supermarket in every town. There are often several to choose from and there is strong
competition between them. This clearly has many benefits, but there are some drawbacks too. I will consider both sides
of the argument and give my own view.

7 Study the information about introductions in the box above, and then read the following Part 2 question and a
student's introduction. What are the good and bad things about this introduction?
 Online shopping has increased in poputarit11 over the Last few years.
People now shop for a wide variety of items on websites. Other people
still
prefer going to the shops to buy things. There are a lot of reasons why
online
shopping is growing. One of them is that there is a wider choice of items.
In this essay, I will consider each of these opinions and give my own
view.

9 Write a three-sentence introduction to this question.

DEVELOPING AN ARGUMENT

10 Match the main points (1-4) with the supporting evidence (a-d).

Main points

1 Supermarkets are often in competition with each other.

2 Supermarkets keep increasing the range of services they offer.

3 Supermarket chains also offer online grocery shopping.

4 Shopping can be an enjoyable and social experience.

Examples/ evidence

a You can sometimes get free delivery on some days of the week.

b When I was a child, my mother enjoyed talking to shopkeepers and neighbours while she was shopping.

c Some supermarkets will refund money if the same goods cost less at another supermarket.

d You can now buy insurance and foreign currency at large supermarkets.
11 Can you think of examples which support these main points?

1 Supermarkets provide jobs for local people.

2 Large supermarkets can offer a large choice of products.

3 Some large supermarkets offer loyalty cards.

STUDYING A MODEL ESSAY

12 Read the essay question and answer the questions below.

1 Do you agree or disagree?

2 Note down a few points which support your opinion.

13 Read the essay. Were any of your points made?

14 Complete the essay plan.

15 Find the following in the essay.

1 two expressions for giving opinions 4 two different future forms

2 two expressions for introducing examples 5 two more linking expressions

3 an expression to show it is the last point

EXAM SKILLS
16 Write an essay on the following topic.

In the future, the main reason for going to the shopping mall will be for entertainment, not to shop. Do you agree or
disagree?

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

Write at least 250 words.

You may use some of the following ideas or your own ideas.

• Most people shop online.

• People enjoy shopping at malls with friends.

• Malls have cinemas, bowling alleys, restaurants.

• Malls have plans for even more entertainment facilities.

• At the mall you can try on clothes and get advice on products from shop assistants.

• Shops and entertainment are under one roof.

Remember to:

• organise your ideas into four paragraphs

• for 'agree or disagree' questions, give your opinion in the first paragraph

• consider both sides of the argument

• use examples to provide supporting evidence

• use linking expressions

• use future forms.

UNIT 6: LEISURE TIME

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• organise and write a Part 2 essay
• compare two different time periods

• link and signpost your ideas.

LEAD-IN
1 Choose the correct option(s). In each case, either one or two are correct.

1 go running/go for a run/go for running

2 go to the cinema/go to cinema/go for the cinema

3 see a film / look at a film I watch a film

4 visit to friends/visit friends/visit some friends

5 play the sports/ play sport/play sports

6 join to a club/ join a club/join for a club

7 go walking/go to a walk/go for a walk

8 go gym/go to the gym /go for the gym

Which of the activities do you enjoy doing?

EVALUATING A PART 2 ESSAY

3 Answer these questions about the essay.

1 Does it have the right number of paragraphs?

2 Is every paragraph clear?

3 Are linking expressions used?

4 Is the writer's opinion given clearly?

5 Has the writer looked at both sides (for and against)?

6 Are tenses used correctly?

7 Are there any grammatical mistakes?

4 The teacher has highlighted the student's errors. Can you correct them?

GRAMMAR FOCUS: COMPARING PAST AND PRESENT

5 In the essay, the student is comparing the situation now with the situation in the past. Complete the expressions
she uses to refer to the present or the past.
Tip 1

Try to use different phrases to

compare [Past and present or
present and future. Make a list
of them, as this kind of
question is quite frequent.
6 Look at the following sentences from the essay:
People are less active.

Some physical activities are becoming more popular.

People are lazier and less fit.

It is easier to stay at home.

Choose the correct form to make some more comparisons between the past and present.

1 Joining a gym is expensiver/ more expensive than it used to be.

2 It is more hard/ harder to find the time to do exercise.

3 Most people eat healthier/ more healthy food than they did before.

4 It is dangerous/ more dangerous for children to play outside.

5 The pace of life is faster/ more faster than it used to be.

LINKING IDEAS

7 Find the following expressions in the essay.

1 two expressions used to give an opinion ______________ ______________

2 two expressions used to introduce the opposite view ______________ ______________

3 an expression to show there are two sides to the argument ______________

4 an expression to introduce the conclusion ______________

5 an expression to show that a point is the most important ______________

8 Read this Writing Part 2 question and then, before you read the essay in exercise 9, think of some advantages and
disadvantages.

My own view is my own opinion Unfortunately also

One reason is that Firstly Thirdly Firstly In addition

9 Fill in the gaps in the essay with the linking expressions in the box.

Many parents think that their children should have many free-time activities, such as joining sports clubs and having
music lessons. Children often have no time which can really be called free time. In this essay I will look at the advantages
and disadvantages of this and give 1 --------------------.

2 --------------------, if we think of all the great artists, musicians and sportsmen and women in the world, they all started
by doing their activity as a hobby. They found they had a talent and developed their skills to become world class.
Secondly, children usually enjoy their activities, make friends and become well-developed people.

3 --------------------, parents think that being busy will stop the children getting into trouble. Their parents know what they
are doing at all times.
4--------------------, this is not always a positive trend. 5 -------------------- children can become stressed when they have to
run from activity to activity.

6 --------------------, they need time to play freely and use their imaginations. They can get to know themselves and their
likes and dislikes during this time. It is 7 -------------------- important to give them time to relax, watch TV, read and be with

their parents, grandparents and siblings.

8 -------------------- that we need to have a balance. Children should choose one or two activities they really like, and have
free time to just be themselves the rest of the time.

EXAM SKILLS
10 Read the following essay question and then write Agree (A) or Disagree (D) next to each point 1-6 below.

Children are now less active in their free time than in the past. Therefore, sports lessons must be compulsory in
schools. To what extent do you agree or disagree? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples
from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

1 If people are unfit, the government will have to spend a lot of money on medical care in the future.

2 Physical activity improves children's mental well-being.

3 Sports lessons are a waste of valuable study time.

4 Schools need to spend a lot of money on sports facilities.

5 Sports help children learn discipline and working with others as a team.

6 Some young people do not enjoy sports.

11 Write your essay using the following plan:

Paragraph 1 Introduction - a general opening sentence (a paraphrase of the question)

I agree or I disagree - in this essay I will give reasons

Paragraph 2 Summarise the opposite view: Some people believe...

Say why you disagree with them - give your main point

Paragraph 3 Give your view - at least two more points, with supporting evidence

Paragraph 4 Conclusion - state your view again and give a brief summary of your main arguments

12 Check your essay using this checklist.

Tip 2
• Are my paragraphs clearly shown? (Leave a line or indent)
In the exam, leave a few minutes at
• Have I used linking words and expressions? the end to read through your
• Have I used phrases to introduce my opinion? essay with a checklist like this
one in your mind.
• Are my tenses correct (mostly present and future)?

• Have I checked my spelling, grammar and punctuation?

UNIT 7: FAME and MEDIA

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILLLEARN HOW TO

• avoid repeating words in your Part 2 essay

• develop a paragraph

• provide specific support for your main points.

LEAD-IN

1 Put the words into the correct column.

celebrity newspaper reporter blogger model talented

famous fortune wealthy fan star website

paparazzi photographer well-known media popular

WRITING PART 2: PARAGRAPHS

2 Look at this essay title.

Read this second paragraph (the paragraph after the introduction) from a student's essay on this topic. What are the
good and bad things about it?

There are many advantages of being famous. If you are famous, you might also be wealthy. You can buy a big house and
an expensive car. Another advantage is that you have fans. They take photographs of you and send you letters. One
more advantage is if you are famous you don't have to wait in queues. You can go to the front. The last advantage of
being famous is you can use your fame and money to help good causes. If you give money to charity, others will do so
too. In this way, you can make a real difference in the world.

3 The paragraph gives four advantages of being famous. Each point is supported by evidence. Complete the table. The
first point has been done for you.

4 Rewrite the paragraph. Instead of always using famous and advantages, try to use some of these words:
famous: (have) fame, well-known, someone that everyone knows

advantages: benefits, good points, positive aspects

5 Read the student's next paragraph and answer the questions.

1 How does the student avoid repeating the words disadvantages and famous?

2 What are the student's FOUR main points?

3 What evidence does the student provide for each point?

GIVING SPECIFIC EXAMPLES

6 Where in the paragraph could you add these sentences?

1 Even people like Bill Gates, who gives most of his money to charity, are criticised!

2 Many famous people have become ill due to overwork and always being in public view.

3 For example, everyone has seen pictures of Harper, the young daughter of David and Victoria Beckham.

7 Add specific support to these points. The person or situation can be from your own country.

Famous people are often rich. Tip 1

You might have a lot of fans. You will get more marks if you give
specific examples to support your points.
You will be able to use your fame and money to help others. It can be something that happened to
you or a friend, something you read or
something that happens in your country.
GRAMMAR FOCUS: PRONOUNS Make sure it provides evidence of the
point you are making.
8 Replace the repeated words with pronouns.

1 Fan Bingbing is a popular actress in China. Fan Bingbing starred in My Fair Princess.

2 Benedict Cumberbatch is one of my heroes. I met Benedict Cumberbatch when I was in London.

3 Our country has laws that protect people from paparazzi. Some countries' laws are not as strict as

our laws.

4 There are some reasons for my opinion. The first reason for my opinion is it is difficult to be famous.

SUPPORTING YOUR POINTS

9 Read the essay title. Which of the statements a-d below best matches your opinion on the essay topic?

Tip 2
a I strongly agree. Laws must be very strict to protect children.
'To what extent do you agree or
b I tend to agree. It is probably not a good idea to allow photos of children. disagree?' means 'How strongly
do you agree or disagree?' Use
c I tend to disagree. I think people are interested in seeing photos of famous children.
phrases like I strongly agree, or I
d I strongly disagree. People have the right to take pictures of whoever they want. tend to disagree.
10 Read the essay and answer the questions about it that follow.

1 What is the writer's opinion?

2 What three pieces of specific

support does the writer give?

3 Does the writer consider the

opposite opinion?

4 These are all possible plans

for this essay. Which one has

the writer used?

EXAM SKILLS

11 Write an essay answering the following question. Use the advice in the box.

You may use the ideas below if you wish.

Do you agree or disagree that celebrities are paid far too much money?

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

Write at least 250 words.

Agree

• Essential workers such as nurses and teachers often receive low salaries.

• Celebrities are often born with their talent for singing or acting. They have not spent years at university like doctors
and engineers.

• Most of them waste their money on expensive houses, cars and parties.

Disagree

• Celebrities do not have a private life and work very hard.

• Very few people reach the top levels of music, acting or sport - we should reward those that do.

• It is a case of supply and demand. We create demand by going to see their concerts and buying their music.

UNIT 8: NATURAL WORLD

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• deal with two-part questions

• link different parts of the essay

• write a conclusion.

LEAD-IN

1 Match the words to make some common word pairs.

1 endangered a fuels

2 air b warming

3 renewable c pollution

4 natural d species

5 global e habitats

6 fossil f energy

2 Fill in the gaps with the word pairs above to make sentences you could use in a conclusion.

1 In conclusion, -------------------------- is already causing sea temperatures to rise.

2 In my opinion, loss of -------------------------- is a continuing threat to wild animals.

3 To sum up, -------------------------- is having a serious effect on people who live in cities.

4 If we don't take action now, the number of -------------------------- will continue to increase.

5 I suggest governments stop using -------------------------- and start using clean sources of energy.

6 Finally, I believe that -------------------------- can offer us hope to save our planet.
WRITING A CONCLUSION
3 Which of these may be included in your conclusion?

a a concluding phrase f plenty of detail

Tip 1
b a prediction (what will/might g a summary of your main ideas
The conclusion is a very
happen in the future) h what you hope (or fear) might important part of your
essay. It is the last thing the
c supporting evidence happen in future
examiner reads, so it must
d your opinion i your recommendations be good!

e an idea you haven't mentioned before j your answer to the question

k at least four sentence

Which of them should be included?

4 Match examples 1-6 with the features a-k in exercise 3.

1 In short, all types of pollution are increasing.

2 So, in conclusion, we can say that...

3 Personally, I feel that there is a limit to what we can do.

4 I think there will be very few wild animals left in 25 years' time.

5 I hope people will work hard to protect our beautiful planet.

6 Governments should use the law, education and clean energy to improve the situation.

5 Which paragraph, A or B, is a better conclusion to the essay title? Why?

A To conclude, my view is that everyone can help protect the environment. We can recycle as much as possible,
maintain our vehicles properly and ask our Member of Parliament to support laws that prevent damage to the
environment. If we all do this, we can ensure the planet is in good condition for future generations.

B Another issue is how we use our vehicles. We should walk or use public transport whenever possible and only have
one car per family. The main reason public transport in my home town is not very good is because it is not used enough.
We must get our cars serviced regularly to make sure we don't pollute the air. So this is another reason why I say, in
conclusion, that people can help protect the environment.

LINKING THE MAIN IDEAS AND CONCLUSION

6 Phrases 1-7 are useful in an essay. What can you use them for? Match the phrases 1-7
1 In this essay I will... a to introduce the opposite view
2 ln my view,... b to introduce a main point
3 Another reason for... c to begin your final paragraph
4 On the other hand, … d to introduce an opinion
5 For instance,... e to introduce an example
6 It is clear that ... f to explain your plan
7 To conclude ... g to introduce a similar point

7 Read this essay title and spend two minutes noting down any ideas you have on the topic.

Tip 2

Some questions have two parts to

them. Your essay must answer both
parts. Your two main paragraphs
should answer one part of the
question each.

2 Tick the causes and government actions that are mentioned in the conclusion.

3 Complete the sentence by choosing the correct option.

The conclusion ends with a prediction/hope/fear/recommendation.

GRAMMAR FOCUS: PRESENT PERFECT AND PAST SIMPLE

One use of the present
9 According to the model essay above, how have past human actions affected perfect tense is to talk
about actions that
animals today? Complete the list.
happened in the past which
1 People have hunted animals for sport or for their body parts. have results in the present.

2 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

3 --------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

10 Find the present perfect sentence in the introduction

to the model essay above.

EXAM SKILLS
11 Read the essay title. How would you organise this essay?

What ideas do you have for this topic?

Global warming is one of the biggest threats to our environment. What causes global warming? What solutions

are there to this problem?

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

Write at least 250 words.

12 Read a student's plan for this essay.

Paragraph I - Introduction

• Definition of global warming: increasing

temperatures due to air pollution (climate change)

• Plan of essay: causes/solutions Make sure your answers to

Paragraph 2 - Causes two-part questions are
balanced. Don't spend too
• Cutting down trees (e.g. due to population growth) much time on one part so that
• Burning fossil fuels (cars, power stations, factories) you don't develop the other.

• Using too much electricity (computers, TV, lights)

Paragraph 3 - Solutions

• Renewable energy (solar, wind)

• Manage the rainforests (less cutting, more planting)

• Transport solutions (share cars, use public transport)

Paragraph 4 - Conclusion
Write the essay in full, following the advice in the box.

Mindset for IELTS-2

UNIT 1: THE MAN-MADE ENVIRONMENT

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• select key features of different types of graph, chart and table in order to describe them accurately

• use suitable verbs, adjectives and adverbs to describe trends in different ways

• compare different graphs or information in the same graph and write a summary of the main features

LEAD-IN

1 Look at these examples of the types of diagram you might encounter in the IELTS exam. Then label the diagrams
with words from the box.

row bar line graph pie chart bar chart

segment column table horizontal axis

key vertical axis line title

SELECTING KEY FEATURES
Study these graphs and make notes about their main features -
use questions 1-12 to help you. World's most expensive cities (2015)
How much can you buy for one million dollars?
1 What does the title say the graph is about?
2 What does the vertical axis describe?
3 What does the horizontal axis describe?
4 What do the columns/bars represent?
5 Which is the tallest and shortest bar?
6 How do the bars compare to one another?
 7 What does the title say the graph is about?
8 What does the vertical axis describe?
9 What does the horizontal axis describe?
10 What do the highest/lowest points of the line
show?
11 What is the general trend of the line?
12 Are there any sharp decreases or increases?

13 What does the title say the graph is about?

14 What do the segments represent?

15 Which is the largest/smallest segment?

16 Are some segments similar in size?

17 What does the title say about the table?

18 How many columns are there? What do they

represent?

19 Which country has the biggest average house size?

20 Which country has the smallest average house size?

21 Which countries have a similar average house size?

USING ACCURATE DATA

3 The sample answer describes the pie chart and table in exercise 2.

Rewrite the sample answer, correcting any errors in data.

4 Did the writer make any other errors, not related to data? If so, what were they?

DESCRIBING TRENDS
5 Complete the words with the missing letters. Can you think of any more words for each category?

6 Answer these questions.

1 Which of the verbs in the boxes are used to describe a sudden increase?

2 Which of the verbs in the boxes are used to describe a sudden decrease?

7 When using these verbs, it is important that you also consider the tense used.

Look at this example.

The number of young people buying property plummet last year. ꓫ

The number of young people buying property plummeted last year. √

Complete the sentences using the verb in brackets in the correct tense. There may be more than one correct form of
the verb.

1 Last year house prices --------------------------- (rise) by 5%.

2 Monaco's property market --------------------------- (remain) stable.

3 The line graph illustrates that since 2010 home ownership ---------------------------

(decrease).

4 House prices --------------------------- (go up) next year.

5 In Ireland, property prices --------------------------- (rocket) substantially this year.

USEFUL ADVERBS AND ADJECTIVES

USEFUL ADJECTIVES

8 Complete the table with the adjectives from the box.

Tip 1
slight stable modest steady*
Make sure you know how to
significant substantial dramatic unchanged*
spell these adjectives correctly
as it is common for students
to make errors with these.

*These adjectives usually go after the noun.

9 Complete the sentences using adjectives from the box in exercise 8 and following the prompts in the
brackets. More than one answer may be possible.
1 Over the last year, Hong Kong has experienced a --------------------- (big) rise-in house prices.
2 There has been a --------------------- (gradual) increase in the number of young people buying houses.
3 The rental market has seen a --------------------- (small) decrease over the last six months.
4 The graph illustrates that the rental market is --------------------- (no change) at the moment
USEFUL ADVERBS
10 Match sentences 1-3 with graphs A-C.

11 Complete the table using the adverbs from the box.

considerable substantially consistently dramatically moderately

sharply slowly gradually rapidly

12 Complete the sentences using the adverbs from exercise 11 and following the prompts in the brackets.
More than one answer may be possible.
1 Home ownership has decreased --------------------- (big) over the last five years.
2 Property prices have increased --------------------- (small) over the last six months.
3 The property market is growing --------------------- (gradual) in this area.
4 Interest rates have increased --------------------- (quick) recently.

PART 1: DESCRIBING TRENDS

13 Look at the trends illustrated by the graphs and charts.
Discuss them with a partner using the language you have learnt in this lesson.
14 Match descriptions 1-3 with the graphs and charts A-C, then complete the first gap in each sentence with
the correct country name.
1 Since 2008, house prices in --------------------- have --------------------- fluctuated heavily.
In 2008 prices by just over 40% and then --------------------- to-40%.
2 Since 2008, house price increases in --------------------- have ---------------------
under 11% each year. In 2008 prices reached a ---------------------, with a
--------------------- of just over 10%.
3 Since 2010, house prices in --------------------- have ---------------------. In 2009,
prices ---------------------, by almost £100,000, but --------------------- again
rapidly in 2010 to approximately £600,000.
15 Complete the sentences in exercise 14 using the words and phrases in the box.

decreased substantially plummeted dramatically increased steadily remained

went up fluctuatee peak went up rise

EXAM SKILLS
Tip 2
16 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 1 task.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task. Do not give your
The chart below gives information about how people aged 25-34 are housed in the UK. opinion, just the facts.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting on the main features,

and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words. Tip 3

Remember to include an
introduction and
conclusion in your answer.

UNIT 2: LEISURE AND RECREATION

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• select and compare key features of charts, graphs and tables
• structure an answer which compares information from charts, graphs and tables
• revise the form and use of comparatives.
LEAD-IN
1 Discuss these questions with a partner.
1 Have you ever watched the Olympic Games, either live or on television? If so, which sports did you enjoy watching the
most?
2 Do you prefer the winter or summer Olympics? Give reasons for your answers.

2 Study the chart and graph and answer the questions which follow.

1 Which countries (or former countries) were successful in both the winter and summer Olympics?

2 Which country (or former country) won the most gold medals in the winter Olympics?

3 Which country (or former country) won the fewest medals in the summer Olympics?

STRUCTURING YOUR ANSWER

4 Label the paragraphs of the sample answer 'Summary', 'Main body' or 'Introduction'.

5 Answer these questions, which deal with some minor differences between

discussing one graph and comparing two or more graphs.

1 Did the writer introduce both graphs in the introduction?

2 Did the writer discuss the details (main body) of both graphs in the same

paragraph or separate paragraphs?

3 Did the summary include both the bar chart and the graph or just one?

6 Complete the gaps with 'main body', 'summary' or 'introduction'.

The 1 ------------------------------ should state what the graph is about. Do not copy the Tip 1
wording of the question. You should paraphrase the question using synonyms, Sentences should be
e.g. illustrates/ shows. simple and easy to
understand, not long
The 2 ------------------------------ should discuss the general trends in the graph, supported and complicated.
by the relevant data, e.g. dates or numbers. Identify the most important features - do

not try to include everything.

The 3 ------------------------------ should provide an overview of the key points made in the

'Main body'. Do not include new information or your own opinion.

7 Study these two charts.

8 Read and order the sample answer describing the two charts.
GRAMMAR FOCUS: COMPARATIVES
9 Read this sentence from the sample answer and underline the
comparative form.
Looking at the bar chart it is easily apparent that China has been
significantly more successful than any other country in badminton.

10 Underline all the comparative forms in the sample answer.

11 Complete the sentences with the correct comparative form of an adjective or adverb from the box.

cold far gracefully interesting often old slow successful well

1 In the triathlon he swam much --------------------- than he cycled.
2 In the ski-jumping event, participants were required to go much --------------------- than ever before.
3 Generally, countries with a --------------------- climate are --------------------- in the Winter Olympics.
4 Spectators found this ice-hockey game --------------------- than the last one.
5 He ran well: --------------------- than last year.
6 Before the Games she practised --------------------- than her team mates.
7 The oldest recorded male medallist was 72 years old, making him 62 years --------------------- than the
youngest-ever medallist.
8 He accepted defeat with grace: --------------------- than the rest of his team.

12 The sample answer includes the sentence 'China has been significantly more
successful than any other country in badminton.' What other modifiers are used in
the answer?

COMPARING DATA: CHOOSING THE RELEVANT INFORMATION

13 Study this table and graph, then answer the question which follows.

Which of this information would you include in your answer?

1 The most successful athlete is Michael Phelps from the USA, who has won the most medals for swimming.
2 The chart also shows that three of the top five athletes were gymnasts from the USSR.
3 Michael Phelps won 22 medals, Larysa Latynina 18, Nikolai Andrianov 15, Ole Einar Bjoerndalen 13 and Borys
Shakhlin 13.
4 The sports which the athletes achieved medals in were swimming, gymnastics and the biathlon.
5 In summary, both charts illustrate that the two most successful countries in the Olympics were the USA and
the USSR.
Tip 2

Try to group important

14 Now, study the line graph again and write three statements similar to those in
information together.
exercise 13.

EXAM SKILLS
15 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 1 task.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The chart and graph below give information about participants who have entered the Olympics since it
began.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting on the main features, and make comparisons where
relevant.

Write at least 150 words

UNIT 3: THE NEWS AND MEDIA
INTHIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOWTO
• use time markers and the passive to describe a process
• plan a description of a process
• interpret scientific and technical diagrams.
LEAD·IN
1 In the Writing test, you might be asked to describe a process. Look at sentences a-g describing a process
for writing a local news story, then order the sentences, using the pictures to help you.

How to write a local newspaper story

a After that, think of a good title for your piece.
b Finally, submit your article to your local newspaper via email.
c Thirdly, think of a good first line: something which is attention-grabbing.
d Next, write the main body of the article, answering the four 'w's:
what, where, why and when.
e First, think of a good idea! Choose a local and interesting news story.
f Then, check your article for grammatical and spelling errors.
g Secondly, accompany your story with a picture of a local person or attraction.
 Tip 1

Do not repeat the wording

in the Writing question.

5 Compare the diagram and the sample answer, then answer these questions.
l Is every word used in the diagram used in the sample answer?
2 Do you need to understand every word in the diagram?
3 Can you use nouns from the diagram in your answer?
6 Complete the sample answer in exercise 4, using the time markers from exercise 3.
More than one answer may be possible.
PLANNING YOUR ANSWER
7 Spending a few minutes planning your answer will ensure it is both logical and structured. It may also help
you to understand the diagram better and to choose the most significant features. Look at this example plan.
Suggested plan for describing a process
Introduction - The diagram explains The introduction should simply state
the process of writing a news story. what the process is. Do not, however,
There are a total of seven stages in this copy the words used in the task
process, each of which will be Instructions.
described below.

Main body-You need to include every stage, but not every minor detail. Many of the
nouns will often be provided in the diagram, so make sure they are included in your
answer.

Overview - Overall, the diagram shows A clear overview of the diagram is

how you can write a news story in just essential. This can appear at either the
a few simple steps. beginning or the end of your answer.
8 Describe some of these processes to a partner.

boil an egg make a cake download an app post a tweet

make your favourite dish upload a video on YouTube

9 Write a plan for one of these processes.

GRAMMAR FOCUS: THE PASSIVE
10 When writing about a process, the passive is often used. Underline the uses of the

passive in the diagram in exercise 4. Which passive tense has been used? There is

also one example of a passive used with a modal verb. Can you find it?

11 Transform these active sentences into the passive.

The process of writing a local news story

1 Choose a local news story.

2 Accompany the story with a picture.

3 Think of a good first line.

4 Write the main body of the article.

5 Check the article for errors.

6 Invent a good title.

7 Submit the article to a local newspaper.

INTERPRETING SCIENTIFIC OR TECHNICAL DIAGRAMS

12 When you first read the diagram, you may not understand it.
If this is the case, try and use some of these steps.
Order the steps from 1 to 5.

Tip 2

You are not expected to have any

previous knowledge of the subject.

A
Circle the information in the diagram you do understand.
You probably understand more than you think.
B
If you are still unsure what to write, move on to Part 2 of the Writing test. This is worth more marks and it will
give you longer to think about Part 1.
C
Ask yourself some of these questions:
• How many stages are there?
• Are the stages in a particular order?
• Do some stages take place at the same time?
D
Write a brief plan as you did in exercise 9, and include vocabulary already given.
However, remember to write sentences in your own words.
E
Study the diagram carefully. Although the task is not testing your knowledge on the subject, your
interpretation of the diagram needs to be accurate.
EXAM SKILLS
13 Use the useful phrases and verbs below and other language from this lesson to
answer the Writing Part 1 task. You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

Useful phrases for process tasks

The diagram/ flow-chart illustrates/ shows...
Each picture represents a stage in the process of...
There are ... [number] stages to this process, beginning with ... and ending in....
In conclusion/ To conclude, this simple process shows how....

Useful verbs for process tasks

absorb build attach make link convert

lift provide install reflect manufacture

The diagram illustrates the process of lithography: a method used for printing newspapers.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where
necessary.
Write at least 150 words.
Unit 4: TRAVEL AND TRANSPORT
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• study and compare two maps
• read your writing to check for spelling and grammatical errors
• improve the cohesion of your writing by organising your ideas in a logical way
• make your writing easier to understand by using cohesive devices.
LEAD·IN
Tip 1
1 In Writing Part 1, you may be asked to write about one or more maps.
Some of this vocabulary
The box contains useful vocabulary for this type of task. Complete the labels may already be labelled
on the maps 'Now' and 'Twenty years ago' with the correct word from the box. on the maps in the exam.

bridge north church pond east windmill

west residential area farm skyscraper river stadium

fields hills motorway south

PRACTISING READING MAPS
2 Study both maps of the island ('Now' and 'Twenty years ago'), and discuss these two questions with a
partner. Tip 2
1 Which features have changed? More houses have been built. For this task it is important
to use prepositions of place
2 Which features have remained the same?
appropriately
3 Think about your own town. What changes have taken place over the last ten years?
Write sentences using some of the verbs in the box.

Modernized knocked down replaced built

Expanded renovated increased developed

Over the last ten years, more shops and residential areas have
been built in my area.
Discuss your notes with a partner. Are your sentences similar or different?
GRAMMATICAL ACCURACY
4 Read this sample answer and correct the errors that you find.
There are five spelling mistakes and five wrongly used tenses.

5 Write the errors and your corrections in the table.

6 Answer these questions.
1 Which tense is mainly used here?
2 Why is this tense used?

COHERENCE AND COHESION

7 Study these two maps which show how Mumbai has changed.

8 Read these sentences which compare the two maps.

1 These two maps show that, since 1845, Mumbai has changed considerably.
2 There are railway lines which run through the central area, as do many major roads.
3 One feature which has remained the same, however, is the names given to the areas of Mumbai.
4 In particular, it has many facilities such as hotels, cinemas, churches and hospitals.
5 There is also a harbour, located to the east of Mazagaon.
6 Looking at the map of Mumbai today, we can see it is now a highly developed area with lots of facilities.
7 Overall, therefore, these two maps clearly illustrate that this area has changed significantly since the 1800s.
8 Furthermore, there are also several transport links which now connect this area together.
9 Before 1845, Mumbai was made up of seven different islands, as opposed to the one mainland which exists
today.
10 For example, the south part of the city is called Colaba after the original island, while the north part is
called Worli and Parel, and the east part Mazagaon.
9 At the moment, the order of the sentences in exercise 8 is not coherent or logical, making the meaning
difficult for the reader to understand. Put the sentences in a logical order by answering these questions.
1 Which sentences would you put in the introduction?
2 Which sentences would you put in the first paragraph, describing what has changed?
3 Which sentences would you put in the second paragraph, describing what has remained the same?
4 Which sentences would you put in the summary at the end?
10 Look at how the devices in this table are used in the sentences in exercise 8.

11 This box contains more words and short phrases which help to link your ideas
together. Write the words in the correct column in the table.

in addition moreover in comparison similarly in conclusion

to conclude in contrast to summarise particularly what is more

12 Complete the sentences with words from the box. More than one answer may be possible.
1 Fifty years ago there weren't any main roads in this town, ------------------------------ to the developed area,
which can be seen today.
2 The maps illustrate how the school has developed over the last five years. There is now a computer lab and
------------------------------ extra classrooms have been built.
3 ------------------------------, both maps show how the facilities in the park have improved over the last year.
4 The south end of the island has changed the most, ------------------------------ the residential area, which has
increased dramatically in size.
5 The first map shows that the area has many shops and restaurants; ------------------------------, the second map
features a large area used for leisure.

EXAM SKILLS
13 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 1 task.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The following maps show some of the changes that have taken place in Dubai in recent decades.

Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

UNIT 5: BUSINESS AND WORK

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• analyse an 'advantages and disadvantages' essay task

• plan your ideas and organise them into paragraphs

• use linkers to make your essay easy to read.

LEAD·IN

1 Look at the photos and discuss the questions which follow with a partner.

PLANNING YOUR ANSWER

1 What are the advantages and disadvantages of working in the city and working in the country?
2 Where would you prefer to work and why?

PLANNING YOUR ANSWER

2 Read these statements. Have you experienced any of these problems?

If you don't plan:
• you can write a lot of information but not always answer the question.
• you can write too much, too little, or run out of ideas half-way through.
• you may not provide a clear structure for examiners to follow easily.

3 Discuss these questions with a partner.

1 How long do you currently spend planning your essays?
2 How long do you think you should spend planning?
3 What methods do you use to plan (visual plans, lists, etc.)?

ANALYSING THE TASK

4 Look at these sample tasks and underline the topic and task words in each.

5 Compare your answers with a partner. Did you choose the same words?
BRAINSTORMING YOUR IDEAS

Experts believe that, over the next decade, robots will be doing many of the jobs currently done by
humans. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this.
6 Look at these tasks and brainstorm ideas for each with a partner.
Try using both methods to plan your essay and decide which suits you best.
1 The advantages and disadvantages of wearing a uniform to work.
2 The advantages and disadvantages of working for a big company instead of a small, family-run business.

Tip 2

Although your ideas do need to be

relevant, it is more important to
concentrate on the quality of your
English.

STRUCTURING YOUR IDEAS

7 Use this paragraph planner to structure one of the essays you brainstormed in exercise 6.

Tip 3

It is never a good idea to memorise a

model answer, as you are very
unlikely to come across exactly the
same question in the exam.
USING LINKING WORDS

8 Read the task and sample essay, and complete it with linking words from the box. Words can be used
more than once.

also whilst consequently in conclusion for example

therefore in contrast however Furthermore

Tip 4

You will gain extra

marks for using linking
words appropriately.
9 Answer these questions with a partner.
1 How long should you spend planning your answer?
2 What methods can you use to plan your answer?
3 Are you marked on the quality of your ideas or your English?
4 Does it matter, for not all your essay is relevant to the topic?
5 Is it a good idea to memorise a model answer?
6 How many words do you need to write?
7 Is it a good idea to include your own opinion in this type of essay?

EXAM SKILLS
10 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 2 task. You should spend
about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic: Tip 5
In the past, most people used to travel to their place of work. With increased of Before answering the
Computers, the internet and smartphones, more and more people are starting to work question, remember:
What are the advantages and disadvantages of this development? • Analyse
You should use your own ideas knowledge experience, and support your arguments, • Brainstorm
with examples and relevant evidence. • Structure
Write at least 250 words.

UNIT 6: THE NATURAL ENVIRONMENT

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• avoid writing irrelevant ideas in an 'agree or disagree' essay
• express your ideas clearly in an essay
• write in an appropriate neutral/ formal style
• avoid repeating words and phrases.
LEAD-IN
1 Discuss these questions with a partner.
1 How often do you recycle? What kinds of thing do you recycle?
2 Do you try to save energy at home? What kinds of thing do you do to save energy at home?
2 Work in pairs. Read these statements and discuss whether you agree, disagree or agree to a certain extent
with them. You must give reasons to support your opinion.
1 People should be fined if they do not recycle their household waste.
2 Environmental studies should be made compulsory in school.
3 These days, people buy too much and this is one of the major factors affecting the environment.
4 Trying to save resources is a waste of time - it doesn't make a difference globally.
INCLUDING ONLY RELEVANT IDEAS
3 Read this task and the sample answer, then answer the questions which follow.

1 Underline the key words in the task.

2 Generally the sample essay answers the task, although the writer has also included some irrelevant
information. Underline the irrelevant information in the sample answer.
3 Why do you think the writer has included this information?
4 What is the best way to ensure you do not include irrelevant information in your answer?

USING AN APPROPRIATE STYLE

4 Rewrite these sentences so they sound

more formal.
1 Our environment is getting worse day by day.
2 We might not be able to see all of the bad
things in our environment but they are there for
sure!
3 If this keeps going on, our families will struggle
in the future.
4 There are many things our teens and families
can do to help get rid of pollution, e.g. hand-wash our clothes
ride a bike to school/work etc.
5 There could be a solution to helping our
environment if we
• reach out to people who don't care about the
environment
• change their point of view
• tell them how bad things are.
Tip 1

Using the passive can sound

more formal than using the
active. However, use the passive
only if it sounds natural and you
are confident about its correct
use.

5 Read the task and the sample answer,

then complete it using the words and
phrases from the box. The words can
be used more than once.

increase in population it

issue planet's

they these ideas

EXAM SKILLS
6 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 2 task.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Most people do not care enough about environmental issues.
To what extent do you agree or dis agree with this statement?
Give reasons for you answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.

UNIT 7: EDUCATION SYSTEMS

INTHIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOWTO
• generate ideas about a topic and express your opinion clearly
• organise your essay in a logical order
• proofread your writing effectively.
LEAD·IN
1 Using some of the expressions in the box, discuss questions 1-7 with a partner.

For me,... I think I believe ... In my experience,...

In my opinion,... In my view,... Personally, I think ...

To my mind,...

1 Are maths and science more important than the arts?

2 Should students be punished for arriving late at school?
3 Should all schoolchildren be required to wear a uniform?
4 Is homework necessary?
5 Should mobile phones be allowed in the classroom?
6 Is going to university the best way to get a good job?
7 Many students choose to take a 'gap year' to travel or work before going to university. Is this a waste of
time?
2 Discuss this question with your partner.
Which of the expressions in the box are suitable only for spoken, not written English?

ORGANISING YOUR WRITING

In order to express your opinion clearly, you need to have a structure which is easy for the reader to follow.
Put statements 1-9 into one of these categories.
Tip 1
Introduction --------
Although you are very unlikely
Main body --------
to come across a question in
Conclusion -------- the exam that you have
discussed before, you may
1 Restate your opinion already have thought about a
similar topic.
2 Examples of your experience - if relevant
3 Supporting ideas
4 Each paragraph should express one main idea
5 The function of the essay, e.g. This essay will discuss...
6 Rewrite the question using your own words
7 Introduce the topic
8 A summary of your main ideas
9 Give your opinion
4 Using the information from exercise 3, read this task and
put the paragraphs in the sample answer in
the correct order.
Nowadays, some parents feel that
schoolchildren are given too much
homework.
In your opinion, should homework time be
reduced or banned altogether?
Give reasons for your answer and include
any relevant examples from your own
knowledge or experience.

Tip 2

Your opinion needs to be

made clear throughout, as the
writer has done in this sample
answer, in order to achieve a
good score in this part of the
Writing test.
5 Look at this exam task and the sample answer, which contains 20 common errors.
Correct the sample answer, considering all the points in exercise 4.

Home-schooling is becoming increasingly popular. What do you think the reasons are for this? Do you think
home-schooling is more beneficial than attending a private or state school?

EXAM SKILLS Tip 3

6 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 2 The clearer your
task. You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. handwriting, the easier
Many students choose to take a gap year before starting university, to travel or gain it ,will be for the
work experience. Do you think this is a good idea or a waste of time? examiner to understand
Give reasons for your answer and include any your answer.
Tip 4
relevant examples from your own knowledge When you have checked your answer,
or experience. make any corrections neatly. Do not
waste time rewriting the whole
answer- it is better to use this time
for planning and checking.
Write at least 250 words.

UNIT 8: FESTIVALS AND TRADTIONS

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL
LEARN HOW TO
• identify and approach a 'problems and solutions' essay question
• plan and write an essay answering both parts of the question
• write a suitable introduction and conclusion
• revise past, present and future tenses

LEAD-IN
1 Discuss these statements with a partner. Can you suggest solutions to any
of these problems?

1 Formal celebrations can make some people nervous.

2 Nowadays many children do not fully appreciate the presents they are given.
3 Celebrations such as birthdays or New Year can make some people feel lonelier than usual.
4 Some people believe it is too expensive to get married these days.
5 Some celebrations have become too much about money and the reasons behind them have been forgotten.
2 Look at the pairs of sentences. Each pair includes a sentence with good advice and a sentence with bad
advice, based on mistakes often made by students. Next to each statement, put a √ for good advice and a X
for bad advice.
1a Planning is not necessary for this type of question. X
lb Planning is particularly important for this task. √
2a Discuss only two or three problems/solutions in detail.
2b Include as many problems/solutions as you can.
3a Read and analyse the question very carefully.
3b Skim read the question and base your answer on the key words.
4a A solution does not need to be given for every problem you mention.
4b Each problem mentioned should have a solution.
5a Your answer must have a clear structure.
5b Structure is not necessary for this task.

SRUCTURING YOUR ANSWER

3 Skim read this sample answer to understand the main idea.

Some celebrations have lost their original meaning and these occasions have become too much about
spending money. What problems can this cause? What could be done to change the situation?
4 Complete the boxes next to the sample answer with descriptions a-e.
a Summary of the discussion
b What is the solution? How will it solve the problem?
c Second problem and reasons for this/examples
d First problem and reasons for this/examples
e Rephrase the question and say what the essay is about
WRITING INTRODUCTIONS AND CONCLUSIONS
Tip 1
5 Look at the sample answer again and answer these questions.
If you have time, you can finish your
conclusion with a prediction or
recommendation.
Introduction
1 Which words rephrase the question?
2 Which words indicate what the writer is going to discuss?
Conclusion
3 The conclusion summarises information taken from which paragraphs?
4 Is there any new information included in the conclusion?
5 Does the conclusion copy the exact wording used in the main body of the essay?
6 Is the last sentence a prediction or recommendation?

UNDERSTANDING THE QUESTION

6 'Problem and solution' essay questions may not always be phrased in the same way.
Study these examples and answer the questions which follow.
A
In the modern world, spending money is a major focus of many of our celebrations and the meaning behind
these events has become less important.
Suggest measures which could be taken to solve this problem.

B
Spending too much money on gifts has led to numerous problems and the true
meaning of many celebrations has less importance these days.
Identify these problems and suggest ways in which these issues might be tackled.

C
Nowadays most people pay little attention to the real meaning of many celebrations,
due to a growing focus on spending money on gifts.
What are the negative aspects of this and what can be done to minimise the bad effects?

D
Focusing on spending money during times of celebration is a significant problem and many people pay little
attention to the true meaning of these events.
What are the reasons for this and how could these problems be solved?

1 What other ways are there of saying what solutions can you suggest?
2 What other ways are there of saying problems?
3 Which of these essay questions requires a different kind of answer?
REVISION OF TENSES
7 Read this sample answer and complete it using the correct form of the verbs in the box.

close do discuss give ignore pass want

Celebrations such as New Year can make some people feel lonelier than usual.
What are the reasons for this and how might_ this issue be tackled?

EXAM SKILLS
Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Part 2 task.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Organising a large family celebration such as a wedding can often create problems.
What can be the problems associated with organising a large family event and what solutions can you
suggest?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and
experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Mindset for IELTS-3

UNIT 1 URBON AND RURAL LIFE

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO

• identify the main features of a line graph

• achieve a high score for Task Achievement

• describe and compare using adjectives and adverbs.

LEAD-IN

Using the verb to grow and the adverb rapidly, complete the sentences to describe the information in the graphs.
Focus on the correct verb tense in each case, bearing in mind the time phrases you are given and the dates in the
graph.

1 Since five years ago, ------------------------------------------------------------- to 90,000.

2 Between ------------------------------------------------------------- to 90,000.

3 From 2020 to 2030 ------------------------------------------------------------- to 90,000.

4 By the year 2000, ------------------------------------------------------------- to 90,000.

5 By the year 2020, ------------------------------------------------------------- to 90,000.

2 With a partner, make correct sentences using a verb from column 1, an adverb from column 2 and a time
phrase.
Example:
Student A: increase, slowly, by the year 2000
Student B: By the year 2000, it had increased slowly to 90%
TASK 1 - TASK ACHIEVEMENT

Tip 1
3 With a partner, make notes on the main features in this Task 1 line graph.
As you look at a
The line graph below shows the main reasons people gave for moving away from a graph/table/chart for the first
particular capital city to the countryside. time, ask yourself:
• Are there any common
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make trends
in the graphical information?
comparisons where relevant.
• Does any of the information
differ from the rest in an
obvious and significant way?
If so, how?
• Is there anything that two or
more categories have in
common?
• Is there anything that only
happens once?

4 Look at this description of the line graph above. It would not get a good score for Task Achievement. Why
not?
The line graph illustrates the main reasons people gave for moving away from a capital city to the
Answer 1 countryside.
The main reason was traffic. In 1990, 66,000 people left the city because of this, followed by 85,000 in
2000. 70,000 left in 2010, so it actually went down in those last ten years.
It was different for the other two reasons, which both started a lot lower than rising cost of living and
5 The description from exercise 4 has been rewritten, but there is still room for improvement. Read it and
think about how it could be improved. Then match the teacher's comments (A-D) to the numbered sections
(1-4).
Answer 2
The line graph sets out the main motivations people expressed for relocating to the countryside from the city in
the years 1990, 2000 and 2010. The overall trend for the period is of an increase in the numbers moving away
from the city.

According to the graph, the main reason for relocation was the rising cost of living. In 1990, 65,000 people left
the city because of this, then 85,000 left in 2000, then 80,000 people moved away in 2010, so it actually
increased by 20,000 initially (between 1990 and 2000), before going down by 5,000 in those last ten years
between 2000 and 2010 (1).

This drop of 5,000 could have been because people generally had less money in 2010 than they did in 2000, so
they couldn't afford to move. (2) It was a different story for traffic and lifestyle. Both had the same number of city
leavers at the start of the period. Subsequently, both categories saw increases, with traffic first going up by a
large number between 1990 and 2000 and then even more steeply after that. Lifestyle leavers rose consistently
over the whole period, going up to 30,000 initially, then up again to 2010. (3)

So, what does it all mean? For me, the answer is crystal clear. Overall, the graph shows that a huge number of
people moved away from the city to the countryside in a twenty-year period. (4)

A Don't speculate -you shouldn't suggest reasons for any change. All you need to do is report what you can
see on the graph.
B This section is too mechanical - avoid simply listing the changes to a single category like this. Focus more on
highlighting the key figures and trends.
C Better - you have included a conclusion this time, but it doesn't really summarise the key features. Your tone
here is inappropriate - it sounds like you're writing a magazine article. Remember to keep the tone more
formal and scientific.
D This section makes its points more clearly but fails to include key data to demonstrate the points.
6 With a partner, discuss which option works best as a summary/conclusion for this task. Give reasons.
A To sum up, people left the city for three main reasons, all of which rose significantly between 1990 and
2000. Traffic changed the most rapidly, lifestyle changed the least, and rising cost of living was the only reason
that went down.
B Overall, the graph suggests the number of people relocating to the countryside rose across the period. Cost
of living was the main reason for relocation by some distance, despite a fall in numbers in the second half of
the period. Traffic saw the greatest overall increase, with lifestyle seeing a relatively slow but steady rise.
C All in all, the rising cost of living rose from 65,000 to 85,000 and then 80,000, and was the highest of all three
reasons. Traffic had the biggest increase from 20,000 up to 60,000, while lifestyle changed the least (20,000 /
30,000 / 40,000). Tip 2

Don't include data in your

conclusion - it is a summary of
the trends shown in the whole
DESCRIBING CHANGES WITH ADJECTIVES AND ADVERBS graph, and you do not need to
repeat specific information.
7 Look at these notes that another candidate made for this line graph, which helped them to write a more
effective description. Complete the sentences with the adjectives in the box.

consistent highest joint-lowest lowest notable overall stable

Tip 3
8 Look at the following adverbs which describe the manner of change. This kind of task requires you to
With a partner, decide which ones would be inappropriate for a Task 1 answer. report the data objectively.Avoid

using adverbs which give your

abruptly markedly sharply steadily amazingly
subjective interpretation or
noticeably shockingly gradually predictably significantly
opinion of the data, e.g. worryingly.
inconsistently progressively surprisingly

9 For the adverbs in exercise 8 that are appropriate for a Task 1 answer, discuss
how you would expect the line to appear on the graph.
Example: steadily= the line went up or down at a constant rate without
many fluctuations

10 Change the underlined words in the sentences into the form given in brackets and then rewrite the
sentences. The first one has been done for you.
Tip 4
1 The category of 'Lifestyle' increased the most consistently and stably.
If you answer includes a range of
(adjective+ noun) structures, you
The most consistent and stable increase was seen in the category of can improve your score in another
'Lifestyle'. category,
Grammatical Range and Accuracy
(GRA), so vary your combinations (verb
+ adverb, adjective + noun). When using
2 Traffic rose steadily as a reason for moving to the countryside between
1990 and 2000 ... (adjective+ noun)
3 ... but then there was a marked increase between 2000 and 2010.
(verb+ adverb)
4 The number of people moving to the countryside for lifestyle reasons grew
consistently across the whole period shown in the graph. (adjective+ noun)

EXAM SKILLS
11 Use the information and language from this lesson to answer this Writing Task 1.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The line chart below shows the results of a survey giving the reasons why people moved to the capital city
of a particular country.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where
relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

UNIT 2: HEALTH
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• effectively answer 'advantages and disadvantages' questions
• write topic and supporting sentences, developing your ideas in each paragraph
• achieve a high score in Coherence and Cohesion
• correctly use less common discourse markers
LEAD-IN
1 Complete the table with words and phrases from the box. Use a dictionary if necessary.

2 Look at the list of ideas. In pairs or groups, brainstorm and make notes on
Tip 1
advantages and disadvantages for each, based on the subject of health.
It's a good idea to start the
Example: Doing contact sports
planning of any Task 2
Advantages: excellent form of physical exercise; improves reactions and reflexes;
writing by brainstorming
fighting sports teach you to defend yourself, often require strong focus, so good for
ideas. Make a list of the
mental health
things you can talk about
Disadvantages: easy to get injured; some contact sports actually intend to harm and then prioritise them in
opponents; people con be killed order of importance. Decide
1 Living in a busy city which to include and which
2 Increased life expectancy in many societies not, and then decide what

would be a logical sequence

MAIN AND SUPPORTING IDEAS for presenting these ideas.

3 Use the phrases below to write topic sentences for your ideas from exercise 2.
1 One problem with ... is ...
One problem with increased life expectancy is an ageing population
that puts a strain on health care services.
2 The main advantage of ... is ...
3 The principle issue with ... is .. .
4 One obvious negative effect of ... is ...
5 Another disadvantage of ... is ...
6 Overall, the benefits of ... outweigh the drawbacks because ...

4 Read the topic sentence and the possible supporting ideas for it below.
Which two are not effective at developing the topic sentence idea further?
One obvious benefit of participating in a contact sport is the improvement in one's physical health and well-
being.
1 Regularly taking part in a demanding and potentially dangerous activity leads Tip 2

to enhanced physical conditioning, as well as improved speed of thought and Think carefully about the kind
of supporting ideas you want
reaction time. to follow your main idea and
what their functions are.
2 Any physical exercise, however minimal, is bound to improve fitness in some
way, but studies show that boxing, in particular, produces the fittest and sharpest athletes of any sport there
is.
3 On the other hand, it is arguable that the potential dangers involved in doing so - and injuries are inevitable,
after all - outweigh any benefits that may be felt or gained.
4 Despite the fact that there have been many accidents, and even occasional fatalities, the vast majority of
people who take part gain a high level of fitness and rarely, if ever, suffer injury.
5 The healthier you are, the less likely you are to visit a doctor, and this can only be a good thing as it is often
difficult to get an appointment to see a medical specialist.
6 Not only that, but the sometimes risky nature of sports such as rugby or ice hockey also demand intense
levels of concentration that positively affect mental awareness.
5 Match the four possible supporting ideas you identified in exercise 4 with their function (a-d} in relation to
the topic sentence.
a It gives a specific supporting example.
b It uses a cause and effect argument to clarify the idea.
c It supports the topic sentence but shows a contrasting view
that looks at another side of the argument.
d It adds an additional point to strengthen the idea in the topic sentence.
6 Write two supporting sentences for this topic sentence.
Use two different functions.
One significant drawback is the fact that participating in contact sports can cause injury and, in some extreme
cases, death.

COHERENCE AND COHESION

7 For this Task 2 'advantages and disadvantages' question, discuss with a partner
in which order you could put the notes so that they form a logical paragraph.

In terms of personal health and fitness, what are the advantages and
disadvantages of living in a busy city?
• e.g. 250 gyms in my capital city
• In cities - many gyms
• Traditional idea - rural life is healthier; not true
• Gyms part of larger chains, people can use any in city
8 The discourse markers in this paragraph are missing. Think about the function of the
supporting ideas and then choose the discourse markers from the box that would fit in each gap. There are
three possibilities for each gap.
What is more Consequently For example Tip 3

By way of example Because of this In addition to this Discourse markers are words and
phrases used to communicate
For instance As a result Moreover certain language functions. For
example, On the other hand is a
One positive aspect of city life is that there are generally a large number discourse marker to introduce a
of fitness complexes available for members of the public to join, and most contrasting point or idea. Using a
cater for the requirements of all their customers, whether those be for variety of them in writing is
running machines, for weight training and so on. particularly important for
1----------------------------------, in my city alone there are somewhere in constructing solid arguments and
the region of 200 individual facilities, allowing residents the opportunity to paragraphs, and improves your
Coherence and Cohesion score.
stay healthy wherever they live or work. 2----------------------------------, these
gyms are often part of larger chains, and it is convenient for their members to be able to visit a range of
locations if they wish to do so. 3 ----------------------------------, although living in rural areas is traditionally
assumed to be better for one's health, the sheer quantity of available facilities in modern cities means that this
stereotype is changing.

9 Read a candidate's paragraph and answer the questions.

One of the advantages of living in a city is that there are many gym Tip 4
facilities. For example, in my capital city there are more than 250
You can also lose marks for
misusing or overusing
discourse markers. Not
every sentence needs one.
gyms. What this means is that there is a lot of choice available to the
public. Furthermore, these gyms are often part of larger chains
because people can visit any gym, in any location, in any city, meaning that
there are options for everybody regardless of their lifestyle. Despite this, people usually
believe that rural life is better for your health. This is because the traditional belief is
that living in the countryside means that you do more exercise. However, the increasing
number of gym memberships in cities does mean that this attitude is slowly changing.
l Does the paragraph have a clear topic sentence? If so, what is it?
2 Do the ideas follow logically from one another?
3 What function (example, cause and effect, addition or contrast) does each have of
the underlined discourse markers have? Tip 5
4 Which discourse marker is incorrectly used? Can you suggest an alternative?
Your introductory paragraph
5 Which discourse marl<er(s) could be omitted without impeding the logical flow
for this kind of essay should:
of ideas?
• clearly state the situation/
10 Look at the essay question and the three introductions below. What are the
context and question that
strengths and weaknesses of each one? you will discuss in the body
Many countries offer a free health care system to their citizens rather than relying on of the essay in a way that
private health care. sounds engaging to the
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of having a free system, and give reader
your opinion. • not simply repeat the
A In many countries, basic health care provision for the population is funded and words in the question, but
maintained by the state, yet for many others only private care is available. This paraphrase the ideas into
raises the question of why some countries choose one system over the other. your own words
What are the pros and cons of offering free healthcare? • give your position clearly at
B Basic health care is a basic human right, but having a free system has both upsides the beginning of the essay
and downsides. In this essay I will discuss them, including the ideas of how such a Because this is a key part of
system is essential for poorer elements of society and the problems of paying for the question.
and maintaining a system like this. Overall, I think the advantages outweigh the
disadvantages.
C Some countries offer a free health care system and others rely on private health
care. What are the advantages and disadvantages of free health care and what is my
opinion on it?

11 Read these conclusions for the essay question in exercise 10 and, in pairs, discuss
the questions below.
A In conclusion, there are many advantages and disadvantages to having a free health
care system.
B Overall, the advantages of offering free health care outweigh the disadvantages. Tip 6
Whilst there clearly is a financial cost to governments and taxpayers, the fact that Your concluding
everybody has access to health care regardless of their financial situation easily paragraph should briefly
justifies this cost. summarise what you
C In summary, weighing up both sides of the argument, I would say that although have said in the body of
providing free health care does have some downsides, particularly financial ones your essay and state
for the country in question, the fact that no one in that society has to worry about your own position on the
medical bills more than justifies having it. question.
1 Which conclusion(s) do you prefer? Give reasons.
2 Are there any discourse markers or other phrases in them that you could use in your
own conclusions? Underline them.
EXAM SKILLS
12 Answer the Writing Task 2 below.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
In many countries around the world, life expectancy is increasing.
Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of this situation and give your own opinion.
Write at least 250 words.
UNIT 3: ART AND ARCHITECTURE
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• describe changes on a map, including which tenses to use
• summarise information with appropriate discourse markers
• ensure good Coherence and Cohesion in your answer.
LEAD-IN
1 Put the verbs into the correct category.

demolish modernize relocate extend replace

expand Build knock down tear down renovate

enlarge develop convert put up alter

flatten erect construct

2 For each of the verbs in exercise 1, what are the nouns? Use a dictionary if necessary.
Example: demolish (v) - demolition (n) extend (v) - extension (n)

3 Ask and answer the questions in pairs. Include as many words from exercises 1 and 2 as possible.
1 Describe where you live. What kind of housing/ facilities/ features does your area have?
2 How has your home town changed since you were little? What are the key changes?
3 If you could change anything about the architecture and design of your home town, what would you change
and why?
SUMMARISING INFORMATION
Look at the exam task. Match the introductions (1-4) with
the comments on them (A-D).
The maps show part of the town of Poulton in 1900 and 1935.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features
and make comparisons where relevant.

1 The maps show that in 1900 there were many terraced houses, some railway workers' cottages, a factory,
cafe, small shop, a railway line and some wasteland. In 1935, this situation had changed and had become a
residential area with shops and a park.
2 The maps show part of the town of Poulton in 1900 and 1935. TIP 4
3 The maps show how the residential area around Bayley Street and Trent Introductions should set the
scene for what comes next in
the text. Avoid simply
repeating the words in the
 Street in Poulton was modernised between the years 1900 and 1935.
4 Bayley Street and Trent Street have changed a lot in the time period.
A This introduction is taken directly from the question.
B This is a good introduction to the maps as it is clear what the writer is going
to talk about.
C This gives very little information about the maps, so is not a full introduction.
D This includes too many details to be an introduction and includes examples that should be in the main body
of the answer.

5 Look again at the two maps. Categorise the following features as either industrial, residential, commercial
or recreational.
Example: blocks of flats - residential
children's play area laundry
Bayley Mansions Bayley Street Park
café shops
terraced houses wasteland
railway line
6 Look at the two maps and make notes on how the area changed: TIP 5
• residentially • commercially In the main body of your answer,
you will get more marks if you
• industrially • recreationally
summarise the information in the
map rather than listing all the
changes. Try to group details
together under main headings;
7 Read a sample answer for the for example, a swimming pool,
cinema and bowling alley are all
question. Choose the best 'recreational facilities'.

discourse markers.

Tip 7

Use a wide range of

discourse markers to
illustrate for the reader
the points you are making;
for example, adding a similar
point, contrasting or
summarising.
8 Match the functions (a-e) with the correct discourse markers in exercise 7. Some may it into more than
one category.
a to introduce a summary of alt the main ideas previously mentioned
b to introduce a similar point
c to introduce a contrast
d to change from one point to another
e to make a general statement that sums up the ideas you want to mention in your answer

9 Think of alternative discourse markers for each of those used in the sample answer.
In some cases, you will need to change the structure of the sentence.

Example: Overall - In general, Generally speaking

COHERENCE AND COHESION

10 Match these examples of cohesion (1-5) from the text with their type (a-e).
Use the underlined words and phrases to help you decide.

1 ... in 1900 a railway line ran through the neighbourhood, by 1935 this had been removed, ...
2 ... amenities of this area.[...]Whereas in 1900 a railway line ran through the neighbourhood ...
3 ... the industrial features had largely disappeared. Whereas in 1900 a railway line ran through the
neighbourhood ...
4 ... for a spacious park. [...]to the right of the park, ...
5 ... a number of notable changes to the buildings and amenities of this area.[...] Another major change ...
a repetition of the same noun a few sentences later to show continuation of an idea
b using a demonstrative pronoun to avoid repetition
c using the definite article because the noun has been used before
d giving a second more specific noun as an example of the first more general noun
e using synonyms to avoid repetition
11 Look at this list of features which might be found in a cohesive text. Then look back at
the sample answer in exercise 7. Which features were not included in it? Why not?
1 an opening sentence or paragraph explaining what the maps show, with an overview of what the writer is
going to talk about
2 a general statement of a change the writer feels is important
3 supporting statements which give more specific details about a general statement
4 speculation as to why the changes took place
5 a recap/summary of the main points covered
6 your opinion of the changes
12 Look at the two maps of a beach hotel at different times. Make notes on the key changes in the following
areas:
13 With a partner, read this candidate's answer.
Discuss and find examples of the following
coherence and cohesion features.
1 a statement to introduce a change the
writer feels is important
2 the use of discourse markers to give
cohesion
3 the use of synonyms and paraphrase to
avoid repetition
4 the use of pronouns, possessive adjectives
Articles

GRAMMAR FOCUS: PAST TENSES AND PERFECT TENSES

14 Look at the list of tenses. Which ones would you expect to use for a
Tip 4
'describing changes on a map' task like the ones in this section? Why?
Make sure that you focus on the
1 past simple 5 past perfect dates/times given in this kind of
task as they will help you
2 past continuous 6 past perfect continuous determine which tenses are
most appropriate. For example,
3 present perfect simple 7 would for past habits
if the second map says 'Now'
4 present perfect continuous 8 used to for past states then you are likely to be using
past simple and present perfect
to describe the changes.
15 Look back through the two sample answers on pages 61 and 63 and find examples
of the tenses you chose in exercise 14.

EXAM SKILLS

16 Answer the Writing Task 1 below.

You should spend about 20 minutes on this task.

The maps show the outskirts of the town of Fosbury in 1980 and 2015.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where
relevant.

Write at least 150 words.

UNIT 4: FINANCE AND BUSINESS
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• produce a balanced 'agree/disagree' essay
• write an introduction and conclusion for this type of essay
• use a range of discourse markers to help sequence your ideas logically
• understand exactly what the essay question is asking you to write.
LEAD-IN
1 With a partner, discuss what you understand by the term 'financial responsibility'.
2 Discuss the following statements with a partner. Make a list of points that support or oppose
the ideas given. Think about the following: examples, reasons/explanations, causes/effects.

1 People today are more concerned with owning material possessions than with developing friendships and
family relationships.
2 Levels of consumer debt are increasing across the world. To address this, a new subject should be
introduced in secondary schools: how to manage personal finances.

AGREE/DISAGREE ESSAYS
3 With a partner, discuss how the italicised words in each B statement might change
your approach to the question when compared to the A statement.

1 A People today are more concerned with owning material possessions than
with developing friendships and family relationships.
B People today are only concerned with material possessions, even if it has
negative effects on friendships and family relationships.
2 A Levels of consumer debt are increasing across the world. To address this,
a new subject should be introduced in secondary schools: how to manage
personal finances.
B Levels of consumer debt are increasing dramatically across the world.
To address this, a new compulsory subject must be introduced in all
secondary schools: how to manage personal finances.

TIP 1

Make sure you consider every word in the

rubric; try to analyse closely what the
question is asking you to do - it may be
different to the idea you initially think is
being presented.
WRITING AN INTRODUCTION
4 Read the exam task and the introductions (1-4). Match each one with the
teacher's comments about them (a-d).
People today are more concerned with owning material possessions than with
developing friendships and family relationships.
To what extent do you agree with this statement?

1 It has been argued that in today's world, everybody spends more of their
time preoccupied with what they buy and less concerned with maintaining
close ties with the people around them.
2 It is said that people today are more concerned with owning material
possessions than with developing friendships and family relationships. In
this essay I will explain the extent to which I agree with this idea.
3 I agree with the statement and in this essay I will explain why.
Tip 2
4 It has been suggested that these days we tend to prioritise the accumulation of
It is good practice to make
possessions over the development of relationships with those closest to us. Whilst
your position (to what extent
there is some truth in the assertion that the world has become more materialistic, you agree) clear in the
introduction in case you run
it is not necessarily true that this is at the cost of our loved ones. out of time in the exam and
don't finish your essay. This will
A You have explained your position on the statement but have failed to include any
prevent you losing too many
information relating to the statement in your introduction. marks on Task Response.

B Your introduction is clear, but you should paraphrase the question statement in your
own words.
C This is a good introduction that paraphrases the question and clearly explains the line
of argument you will take in the body of your essay.
D You have paraphrased the question statement well, but have failed to explain how
you will answer it.
5 Look at the following plans for three essays for the task in exercise 4 {main body only,
introduction and conclusion missing). Discuss with a partner how each essay differs
in its overall approach to answering the question
 TIP 3
6 For this next Agree/Disagree question, read the arguments that a candidate has
One strategy for this kind of
written for their essay. For each argument, put a tick(√) if the argument is in favour essay is to write the body of
of the statement, and a cross (X) if the argument is against it. Ignore the numbered the essay first (the main
arguments for and against)
gaps for now. and then write the
introduction when you can
Levels of consumer debt are increasing across the world. To address this, a clearly see what your
new compulsory subject should be introduced in secondary schools: how to arguments are. That way
your introduction will relate
manage personal finances. better to what follows it.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
1 -------------------------------, given the growing amount of individual debt around the
world, there is no better time to learn about the negative effects of personal debt
than at school. Students would be less likely to borrow what they could not afford,
and more likely to stay in credit when they reach adulthood.
2 ---------------------------------, I believe that teaching teenagers how to manage their money
within the school curriculum would be vital in allowing them to become financially
independent, even before the age of 18. They would feel more confident in being
able to control their daily or monthly expenditure, and less reliant entirely on their
parents for support or 'top-up' money.
3 --------------------------------, some would argue that teenagers are often too immature to
become truly financially responsible, and so the classes would be a waste of teaching time.
4 --------------------------------- Others point out that teaching the concept of financial responsibility as a new
subject would unfairly favour those students who are good at maths, and even that
it would be just another way for them to get the best grades.
5 ----------------------------------, in my experience, neither of these last two points are particularly valid. Most
teenagers are keen to become financially independent as soon as they possibly can, while even the best
mathematicians can experience difficulties with money at some point.
7 Read the arguments in exercise 6 again and discuss the questions. Note that there is no introduction or
conclusion for this essay yet.
1 How many arguments agree with the essay question and how many disagree?
2 Are the arguments in a logical order or would you reorder them?
3 How would you group the arguments in paragraphs?
4 Look again at the three essay plans in exercise 5. Which essay type is this: 1, 2 or 3?
5 How do you think the candidate will summarise their position in their conclusion?
a They will strongly agree with the statement in the question.
b They will strongly disagree with the statement.
c There are arguments on both sides but overall they will agree.
d There are arguments on both sides but overall they will disagree.
SEQUENCING IDEAS
8 Look at the arguments in exercise 6 and the numbered gaps. Which of the discourse markers in each group
of three does NOT work in the corresponding gaps? Why?
1 First/ Primarily I To begin with
2 Secondly/ Following I Next
3 That said/ On the other hand/ Alternatively TIP 4
4 Despite of this/ In spite of this/ Despite this
Make sure that you are clear
9 Both paragraphs A and B would lose credit in the way they answer the
and explicit in your ideas and
Task 2 question here. Why?
arguments as you develop them. The
It is unacceptable that people who work in certain professions, e.g. finance, media, examiner will not try to 'read
entertainment and sport, ore paid such high salaries while others, who do more between the lines' to establish what
Important jobs in society, are underpaid. you are trying to say if it is not
To what extent do you agree or disagree? apparent.
A While the financial rewards in some professions are considerable, this does
not always cancel out the difficulties that people working in these areas
encounter, such as a loss of privacy.
Furthermore, they often need to be away from home and their families for
long periods. That said, there are so many people around the world who
would love to be famous or rich, and it requires a huge amount of hard
work and dedication.
B Undoubtedly, those working in high-profile professions can earn astonishing amounts of money.
However, this often comes at a price, whether that involves the
loss of privacy for celebrities, or long working days in the case of financiers. Other people may
believe the opposite, but in my eyes they are mistaken.

10 Rewrite the end of paragraph A

from the previous exercise starting at the point shown, so that it finishes with a
logical counter-argument.
While the financial rewards in some professions are considerable, this does not always
cancel out the difficulties that people working in these areas encounter, such as a loss
of privacy. Furthermore, they often need to be away from home and their families for
long periods.
That said, there is an argument …

WRITING A CONCLUSION
11 Look at these notes from a candidate's answer (this is an example of an Essay Type 1 approach). Then
decide which of the sentences (1-4) below correspond to the gaps (a-c) to create a logical conclusion. There
is one sentence that you do not need.
In conclusion, (a) _______
Granted, (b) ______
(c) ______
1 these high-earners create happiness and act as role models for younger people,
often while their own privacy and well-being suffers
2 I can see no reason why people in high profile positions should not be paid as well
as they usually are
3 it is important to consider that a lot of doctors and surgeons also get paid a huge
amount of money
4 others in society often earn too little for the important work they do, but it
shouldn't mean that these talented individuals are paid less

12 Which of the discourse markers in the box are appropriate for beginning the conclusion to a Task 2
Agree/Disagree essay?

To conclude To sum up On the whole Basically

Summarising The point is In summary CONCLUSION:

13 Following on from the main body of the essay you worked with in exercise 6, and using the conclusion
template from exercise 11, write a suitable conclusion for the full essay.

EXAM SKILLS
Answer the Writing Task 2 below.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
The most important consideration when choosing
any career or job is having a high income.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Write at least 250 words.
UNIT 5: HISTORY
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• describe information in a table or bar chart
• use linkers and cohesive language to improve your Coherence and Cohesion score for Task 1
• avoid repetition of language to improve your Coherence and Cohesion score for Task 1
LEAD-IN

1 Discuss these questions in groups.

1 What goods are manufactured in your country?
2 Do you think manufacturing is increasing or decreasing?
3 What goods are imported and exported?
4 How does this compare with imports and exports in the past?
2 Match the terms (1-4) with their definitions (a-d).
1 heavy industry a small business carried out at home
2 cottage industry b extracting raw materials, such as forestry, fishing or mining
3 service industry c manufacturing large articles or materials, such as ships or steel
4 primary industry d tourism, catering, plumbing, etc; also known as the tertiary sector
DESCRIBING INFORMATION IN TABLES AND BAR CHARTS
3 Look at the Task 1 practice question and the table. With a partner, discuss the
questions below.
The table gives information about the number of deep mines producing coal in the
UK between 1913 and 2015.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make
comparisons where relevant.
1 What is the general trend in these figures?
2 Which years or time periods would you focus on as the most salient?

4 Look at the marking criteria for IELTS Writing and read a candidate's
answer to Task 1. What do you think are its strengths and weaknesses?
Marking criteria
Task Achievement: How well the question
is answered, including identifying the
key features
Coherence and Cohesion: How the text is
organised, and how ideas are sequenced
and connected together logically to make it
easy to follow
Lexical Resource: The range and precision
of vocabulary used
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The
range and precision of the grammatical
structures used

COHERENCE AND COHESION

5 Read this feedback from a teacher on coherence and cohesion in the candidate's answer in exercise 4.
Choose linkers from the box to replace the inappropriate highlighted linkers (1-4}. Can you think of any
other alternatives for these linkers?

1 Obviously TIP 1
For example
2 Nevertheless By the end of the period shown, in
You can improve your Coherence and
2015,
3 Surprisingly Cohesion score if you can use a
The clear trend in the figures is that
variety of discourse markers
It is striking that
4 At las correctly. For Task 1 questions like
these, try making your own lists of
6 Look at this answer by another candidate about the same table. discourse markers that you can use,
The coherence and cohesion is much better in this one. Find discourse and classify them by their function.
markers that perform the functions listed on the next page. There may be Practise using them when you do
more than one answer for each function. exam practice questions so that you
learn to choose appropriate ones
depending on the question.
1 To emphasise or exemplify an idea or point that you are making
In fact; to give a specific example; One of the, most striking features of this: table is
2 To provide an overview of the evident tendencies in the data
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
3 To show a contrast with previous information
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
4 To introduce key time periods in the data
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
7 Look at this bar chart which shows data on the manufacture of passenger cars in 2015. With a partner,
discuss the following questions.
1 What is the most important information in this chart?
2 Which regions of the data would you focus on to make comparisons?
3 How would you organise your answer based on this data?

8 Now look at a sample answer which summarises and reports the data in exercise 7.
Some of the discourse markers have been removed. Fill the gaps with words or phrases from the box.

although Whereas in terms of Turning next to moving on to

What stands out is respectively By contrast For the purposes of this data set

The bar chart gives the percentage of passenger cars manufactured by different regions
of the world. 1 --------------------------------, the world is divided into seven regions, with the total adding up to
100%.
2 -------------------------------- that the regions 'of Greater China and Europe lead the way
3 -------------------------------- the manufacture of passenger cars, with 26% and 25%
4 --------------------------------. 5 --------------------------------, very few cars are produced in the Middle East and
Africa: just 2% originate from that area.
6 -------------------------------- the Americas, a sharp contrast can be seen between the
Northern and Southern parts of the continent. 7 -------------------------------- North America can boast 19% of the
world's passenger car production, South America manufactures just 4% of this type of vehicle.
Finally, 8 -------------------------------- Japan and Korea, 9 -------------------------------- they are just two countries
rather than a whole region, they account for a sizeable proportion of the total, at 16%.
9 Find words and phrases from the box in exercise 8 which match these functions.
1 Showing contrast: ---------------------------, -----------------------------------, -------------------------------------
2 Introducing a new point/idea/section: ------------------------, --------------------------------, --------------------------------
3 To emphasise or exemplify an idea or point that you are making: ----------------------------------------
4 To introduce a statement which clarifies the data: ----------------------------------------
5 To indicate that some information is in the same order as connected information mentioned in a previous
statement: ----------------------------------------
10 These are extracts from the sample answers in exercises 6 and 8. What information
does each underlined word or phrase allow the writer to avoid repeating?

1 The overall trend is clearly one of decline. a trend

2 the 100-year period between 1913 and 2015 ... by the end of the given time frame
3 ... there were still thousands of coal mines in Britain: to give a specific example, there were 3024 of them.
4 the process of closing down the UK's deep mines had clearly begun: by 1923, the number had fallen to 2607.
5 North America can boast 19% of the world's passenger car production, South America manufactures just 4%
of this type of vehicle.

EXAM SKILLS
11 Answer the Writing Task 1 below.
You should spend about 20 minutes
on this task.
The bar chart shows the percentages
of the UK workforce in five major
industries in 1841 and 2011.
Summarise the information by
selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons
where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

UNIT 6: SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY

IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• write a 'two questions in one' essay
• increase your chances of a high score in Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA)
• write complex sentences with despite/ although concession clauses and participle clauses
LEAD-IN
1 Discuss the questions with a partner.
1 How many different social media accounts do you have?
2 What effect does social media have on your relationships with your friends and family?
3 Do you think people use social media too often?

2 Decide which options are grammatically correct. Sometimes more than one option TIP 1
is correct.
Make sure you are clear
how common verbs in
1 The IT security team has advised/ recommended/ suggested that we don't give out writing are used
personal information to strangers on social media. grammatically in a
sentence. Many require
2 I don't advise I recommend/ suggest spending more than two hours on social media
specific grammar or
every day- it is better to speak to people face-to-face.
structures and it is easy to
3 I advise I recommend I suggest against using the same password for all your social confuse them.
media platforms.
4 He was looking for a new gaming laptop so I advised/ recommended/ suggested to
him that he look at comparison reviews on YouTube.
5 As I love photos, my sister advised/ recommended/ suggested lnstagram to me.

3 Make a note of the verb patterns that can be correctly used for the verbs advise and suggest,
and write an example sentence to help you remember how to use them. Here is an example
with recommend.
(i) recommend+ (that)*+ clause
I recommend (that) you limit the time you spend playing online games.
(ii) recommend+ -ing
I recommend limiting the time you spend playing online games.
(iii) recommend+ something+ to+ someone
I recommended a new study app to my brother.
* optional

TWO QUESTIONS IN ONE ESSAY

4 Look at the essay question and a candidate's essay. Then discuss questions 1-4 TIP 4
below with a partner.
Social media has completely changed the way family and friends communicate with For this essay task, it is
important to be concise.
each other. Limit yourself to two,
possibly three, main
What ore the reasons for this? ideas for each paragraph
Is this a positive or negative development? and develop them
properly.

Social media was introduced to the internet around twenty years ago. It has since gone from strength to strength. Many
people initially dismissed social media as a passing fashion. They believed that it would never replace face-to-face
communication. There are many downsides to this development, but I believe that overall it has had a positive effect on

our lives. One of the main reasons why social media websites are so popular is that they are a very convenient way of
contacting friends and family. At the touch of a button, it is possible to communicate with somebody you are close to on
the other side of the world. In the past, people were able to speak to each other on telephones but they had to make
sure that they were both at home to make or answer the call at an agreed time. Furthermore, if someone is a fan of a
certain actor or singer, they can easily message that person and tell them so. In return, the fans can get updates on the
films or songs the actors or singers are planning to release next, so this is a huge change from the way this
communication happened in the past.

In my opinion, the increasing popularity of social media is a positive development. It allows everyone to stay in touch
constantly, even though it is not in person. For example, if a young person decides to stay out late, they can just phone
their parents and let them know. In the past, they would have needed to find a telephone box, and to have the correct
change to be able to make a call, and this may have caused their parents to worry.

In conclusion, social media has a number of negative sides, but overall it is a positive development. I would recommend
that everyone has at least one account that they use every day.
1 Does the candidate make their position on the statement clear?
2 Did the candidate answer the first question correctly?
3 Did the candidate answer the second question correctly?
4 Does the conclusion summarise the essay correctly?
GRAMMATICAL RANGE AND ACCURACY

GRAMMAR FOCUS: COMPLEX SENTENCES - EXPRESSING

CONTRAST I CONCESSION WITH DESPITE AND ALTHOUGH

5 Read the first half of another candidate's essay based on the question in exercise 4. Find the two
sentences in the second paragraph that use discourse markers of contrast/concession.

First introduced to the internet around twenty years ago, social media has since gone from strength
to strength. Many critics have suggested that it is affecting the closeness of family relationships,
arguing that people spend too much time staring at screens rather than actually talking to each
other. I believe that it brings more advantages than disadvantages to our lives.
One of the main reasons why social media has had such an effect is that it does not require a great
deal of effort or planning to connect with friends and family. In the past, people were able to talk to
each other on the phone, but they had to make sure that they were both at home to make or answer
the call at an agreed time. Another reason is that it fulfils our basic need for human contact, even
between people who are on the other side of the world to each other. Despite the fact that people
need to communicate regularly with their loved ones in order to be happy, it appears that physical
contact is not as vital as once thought. Evidence suggests that contentment in relationships can
actually be achieved through social media.

6 Which of the phrases below are grammatically correct paraphrases of the underlined part of this
sentence from paragraph 2?
Despite the fact that people need to communicate regularly with their loved ones in order to be happy,
it appears that physical contact is not as vital as once thought.
1 Despite people needing to communicate regularly with their loved ones ...
2 Despite people need to communicate regularly with their loved ones ...
3 Despite people's need to communicate regularly with their loved ones ...
7 In which of the options (1-3) in exercise 6 can the word Despite be replaced with
Although to form a grammatically correct sentence?

8 Read the sentence, which is taken from the essay in exercise 5. Then look at sentences 1-4 below, which
are paraphrases of it. Decide if they are grammatically correct and, if not, make any changes so that they
are.

In the past, people were able to talk to each other on the phone, but they had to make sure
that they were both at home to make or answer the call at an agreed time.
1 In the past, although people were able to talk to each other on the phone, but they had to make sure that
they were both at home to make or answer the call at an agreed time.

2 In the past, although the ability to talk to each other on the phone, people had to make sure that they were
both at home to make or answer the call at an agreed time.
3 In the past, despite able to talk to each other on the phone, people had to make sure that they were both at
home to make or answer the call at an agreed time.
4 In the past, although able to talk to each other on the phone, people had to make sure that they were both
at home to make or answer the call at an agreed time.
9 Write complete sentences using despite or although.
1 wi-fi technology is cheaper than ever/ certain parts of the world still have no internet access
2 Virtual Reality headsets are now available to buy/ most home computers lack the processing power to make
them worthwhile
3 it is extremely important to learn science at school/ some students are better suited to studying arts subjects
4 space exploration receives a limited amount of government funding worldwide/ it has uncovered a huge
amount of information about the way the universe works

COMPLEX SENTENCES - PARTICIPLE CLAUSES

10 Look at these examples of complex sentences produced from simple sentences.

In pairs, discuss how this has been done, using the underlined words to help you.
1 Original sentences: Social media was first introduced to the internet around twenty years ago. It has since
gone from strength to strength.
Participle clause sentence: First introduced to the internet around twenty years ago, social media has since
gone from strength to strength.
2 Original sentences: Many critics have suggested that it is affecting the closeness of family relationships. They
argue that people spend too much time staring at screens rather than actually talking to each other.
Participle clause sentence: Many critics have suggested that it is affecting the closeness of family relationships,
arguing that people spend too much time staring at screens rather than actually talking to each other.

11 Using the examples from exercise 10, transform sentences 1 and 2 to make each one a single participle
clause sentence. There may be more than one possible answer.

1 Young people are greatly excited by social media. They believe that it is a necessary way to keep in contact
with their friends.

2 Some people argue that social media is the perfect tool for modern communication. They draw attention to
the fact that family members and friends often find it impossible to spend time with each other.

12 Look at ideas A and B {each expressed in two sentences) and then at a rewritten version of the third
paragraph of the essay from exercise 4. For each set of ideas, underline where the writer has paraphrased
them in complex sentences in the essay.

A It is possible to argue that social media has created a society in which people spend less face-to-face time
with friends and family. However, it has revolutionised the way in which we relate to one another.

B Most people would not welcome a return to an old-fashioned style of communication. They are more
accustomed now to this convenient new form of interaction.

With this in mind, it seems logical to suggest that the positive sides of social media are more significant

than the negative. Although it is possible to argue that it has created a society in which people spend

less face-to-face time with friends and family, social media has revolutionised the way in which we relate

to one another. It is easier than ever to keep in touch with old friends, to post pictures of exciting

moments in our lives, or to send a quick message to parents. Most people would not welcome a return

to an old-fashioned style of communication, being more accustomed now to this convenient new form

of interaction.

13 Read through the model essay paragraphs in exercises 5 and 12. Then decide which option, A, B or C, is
the best conclusion for this essay.
A In conclusion, social media has proved to be a success because people greatly enjoy the benefits it brings,
adapting their approach to friendships and family relationships in order to maintain and improve these bonds
in new ways. This is clearly more of a positive than a negative development.
B In conclusion, I would argue that there are more positive than negative aspects to the effects of social media
on our friendships and family relationships.
C In conclusion, there are too many reasons to outline in a short essay, both in favour and against social
media, so perhaps it is better simply to stay neutral: both positives and negatives are roughly equal.
EXAM SKILLS
14 Answer the Writing Task 2 below.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
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?
Write at least 250 words.
UNIT 7: TELEVISION, NEWS AND CURRENT AFFAIRS
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• describe percentages and fractions
• describe a pie chart
• improve your grammatical range and accuracy
• use the passive voice

1 The pie chart represents the main way of finding out the news by adults in the UK in 2015. Predict which
section of the chart represents TV, radio, print, online and 'not specified'. Explain your predictions to your
partner.
2 Match the descriptions (a-e) with the sections of the pie chart (1-5).
a Just over a third of people access the news online.
b The largest proportion of people, about 40%, watch
the news on TV.
c Only a tiny minority did not specify how they find out
about the news.
d Radio is the least popular way to get news, at just 7%.
e Approximately 15% of people read the news in print.
3 Where do you get your news from? Talk about:
• the types of news that interest you
• the different sources you use
• why you use them.
DESCRIBING PERCENTAGES AND FRACTIONS
4 Match the percentages (1-6) with the descriptions (a-f).
1 20% a a little under half TIP 1

2 77% b a fifth When describing the data in pie charts,

use a variety of ways to describe the
3 92% c just less than a third numbers, for example, use a mixture of
percentages and fractions, to show the
4 31% d about three quarters
range of your language. Use modifiers,
5 24% e approximately 9 out of 10 such as almost,just over and
approximately if the figures are not
exact fractions.
6 48% f almost a quarter
5 Write these fractions as a percentage.
1 four fifths 3 a tenth 5 a quarter
2 two thirds 4 two fifths

6 The pie chart shows the frequency with which adults in the US find out the news through social media.
Describe each section without using the numbers. Use the modifiers in the box where appropriate.

almost about over/under a little approximately

slightly over/under just over/under roughly

DESCRIBING A PIE CHART
7 The pie charts compare ways of accessing the news in the UK and Brazil.
In pairs, discuss what the key features of the data are.

8 Read the sample answer and find examples of these features.

1 the overview
2 percentages
3 use of fractions
4 language of comparison
5 introductory and concluding sentences
6 higher level synonyms for these words
and phrases:
• main
• generally
• key
• it is clear
• preferring
• each one / in that order

IMPROVING YOUR GRAMMATICAL RANGE AND ACCURACY

9 Find and correct the errors in this description of the pie chart in exercise 6.

The pie chart show frequency with which adults in the us uses TIP 2
social medias to obtain news. Overall, it is clear that less than half are using it
in regular basis. Become aware of the areas in which
10 Put the errors in the description in exercise 9 into the following categories.
Some categories have more than one error.
1 tenses 5 subject-verb agreement
2 singular/plural/countable/ uncountable 6 punctuation/capital letters
3 articles 7 prepositions
4 active/passive 8 comparatives/superlatives

11 Read the following pairs of sentences and decide which one, A or B, would score
higher in the IELTS test. Give reasons.
TIP 3
1 A The pie chart data indicate that the primary news source for under 25s in Brazil
Showcase your knowledge of
is social media.
grammatical structures, but
B Social media is indicated by the pie chart data to be the primary news source make sure you use them
appropriately. For example,
for under 25s in Brazil. the passive voice is very
useful in formal writing for
2 A One thing we can see from the data is that some media sources are less popular
depersonalising what is
than 20 years ago. being said or for
foregrounding certain
B One thing that can be seen from the data is that some media sources are less information. However, be
popular than 20 years ago. careful not to overuse it or use
it in ways that are unnatural in
3 A The number of online newspaper subscriptions has increased by 20% since 2005. English.
B The number of online newspaper subscriptions has been increased by 20%
since 2005.
4 A The data reveal that the most popular news stories are sports stories, followed in
second place by political news.
B It is revealed by the data that the most popular news stories are sports stories,
followed in second place by political news.
5 A Between 2005 and 2015 the proportion of over 40s using online news sites was
almost doubled.
B Between 2005 and 2015 the proportion of over 40s using online news sites
almost doubled.

EXAM SKILL
12 Answer the Writing Task 1 below.
You should spend about 20 minutes on this
task.
The pie charts show the first
place Germans and Nigerians go
to in order to access the news in
a typical week.
Summarise the information by
selecting and reporting the main
features, and make comparisons
where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.

UNIT 8: CULTURE
IN THIS UNIT YOU WILL LEARN HOW TO
• describe a process in Task 1
• give opposing views and your own opinion in Task 2
• write a complete essay
LEAD-IN
1 Read these definitions of culture. Which one do you like best? Why?
1 The sum of attitudes, customs, and beliefs that distinguishes one group of people from another. Culture is
transmitted, through language, material objects, ritual, institutions and art, from one generation to the next.
(www.dictionary.com/browse/culture)
2 Culture is a fuzzy set of basic assumptions and values, orientations to life, beliefs, policies, procedures and
behavioural conventions that are shared by a group of people, and that influence (but do not determine) each
member's behaviour and his/her interpretations of the 'meaning' of other people's behaviour. (Spencer-Oatey
2001)
3 Culture is the collective programming of the mind which distinguishes the members of one group or
category of people from another. (Hofstede 1994)
4 Culture means the way we do things around here. (Unknown)
2 Imagine you are explaining your culture to someone from a completely different one. Make a list of its
most significant or interesting features. Use the points below to help you.
Compare with a partner.
Food and cuisine
National dress
Social etiquette
Language
Traditions/ festivals
Our national dishes include fish and chips and roast beef but we are
not famous for our cuisine. We are famous for drinking a lot of tea . . .
We are very polite and often apologise for things which are not our fault
TASK 1 - DESCRIBING A PROCESS

3 The diagram shows the process of making Wesak lanterns, which Sri Lankans do to celebrate the
festival of Wesak in May each year. With a partner, make a list of verbs, nouns and adjectives you
could use in describing this process.

4 Look at these sentences and the stages in the process they

correspond to on the diagram. Rewrite them using the TIP 4
passive. The passive is a very useful structure for describing
processes. There may be opportunities to use more
1 You have to tie the corners of four of these squares complex passives, such as modal passives and passive
infinitives, which could improve your
together. (Stage 3)
GRA score:
Four of these squares have to be tied together. • You have to glue the paper to the frame. (active)
The paper has to be glued to the frame. (passive)
2 Next, you can stick the square and triangular tissue • The Lantern is ready to decorate. (active)
The Lantern is ready to be decorated. (passive)
paper shapes onto the frame. (Stage 6)
3 The lantern is then ready to hang on a lightbulb. (Stage 8)
5 Complete the sample answer using the words in the box.

after that this then this stage next finally to begin with followed by once

TIP 5

Learn a variety of sequencing

linkers, such as firstly,
secondly, after that, next for
this task

6 Look again at the sample answer in exercise 5 and answer the questions. TIP 6
1 Has the writer included an overview? Make sure you include an
overview of the whole process in
2 Find examples of the following grammar structures the candidate has used:
the opening paragraph. It should
give general information about
the process (type of process, how
a relative clauses
b passive
c imperatives

TASK 2 – ESSAY
GIVING OPPOSING VIEWS AND YOUR OWN OPINION

7 Look at the Task 2 essay question. Then read the extracts (1-6) from candidates'
answers. Label them A (opinion A) or B (opinion B).
Some people believe that a person's culture is defined by their country of origin (opinion A},
while others believe that has only a minor influence (opinion B). Discuss both these views
and give your opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge
or experience.

1 In my experience, it depends on which cultural background someone is from. Some people are able to
discard their national identities more readily than others.
2 Although many people believe a person's country no longer has a great influence on their culture, what I
believe is that, under the surface, the impact of where a person is from is enormous.
3 It is evident to me that we can never truly escape our origins. They are with us from birth and are present
during our formative years.
4 Some people are of the opinion that, for example, because the same fast-food chains exist in every country,
everyone likes the same food. However, the reality is that in most parts of the world people eat the same
food, typical of their own country or region, almost every day.
5 While it may be true that certain aspects of culture are shared by people from all over the world, we cannot
deny that our beliefs and behaviours are shaped by the national environment in which we grow up.
6 While I admit that the country of origin is a major factor in determining one's culture, I strongly believe that
anyone who moves overseas for work or study can be equally influenced by the culture of this host country.

8 Look again at the extracts in exercise 7. Identify the expressions which are used to introduce an opinion.

9 Complete the sentences with your own ideas.

1 Some people believe that you can learn a language without knowing the culture. My own view is ...
2 There is a widespread belief that the world is a global village. However, it seems to me that ...
3 On the one hand, it is possible to argue that our country of origin defines us.
On the other hand, ...
WRITING A COMPLETE ESSAY
10 Complete the checklist on writing a Task 2 essay using the words in the box.

conclusion cohesive highlight examples opposing

plan outline topic sentence proof-read paragraph

1 Read the question carefully and---------------------------- any key words. Circle any instruction words.
2 Make a brief -------------------------- of the structure of your essay. Decide how many -------------------------- you
will need. Note down some key vocabulary.
3 In your introduction an overview, paraphrase the question, include your opinion, if appropriate, and an
--------------------------------- of what you intend to argue.
4 When writing your body paragraphs, ensure each one contains a clear --------------------------------- (usually the
first sentence). Remember to give specific --------------------------------- or explanations to support each main
point.
5 If you are arguing in favour of one opinion, make sure you discuss at least one or two points representing
the --------------------------------- view.
6 As you write, keep in mind the need for a variety of grammatical structures and a wide range of
--------------------------------- devices.
7 Include a --------------------------------- as a separate paragraph.
8 Finally, --------------------------------- your essay for errors, such as spelling mistakes.
11 Read this essay for the task in exercise 7. Then answer the questions on the next page.
1 Does paragraph 1 (introduction) clearly explain what the essay will be about?
2 Where does the candidate make their position/opinion clear in this essay?
3 Which opinion from the question does the candidate discuss in paragraph 2? Underline
the topic sentence that expresses it. How many reasons/examples are given to support it?
4 Which opinion does paragraph 3 discuss? Underline the topic sentence that expresses it.
Why do you think the candidate chose to discuss this here?
5 Make a list of opinion phrases used in this essay.
EXAM SKILLS
12 Answer the Writing tasks below.
Task 1
You should spend about20 minutes on this task.
The diagram illustrates the process of making traditional wooden shoes called clogs.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons
where relevant.
Write at least 150 words.
Task2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
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 these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least250 words.