1

Table of Contents
ESSAY #1 .................................................................................................. 3
ESSAY #2 .................................................................................................. 5
ESSAY #3 .................................................................................................. 7
ESSAY #4 .................................................................................................. 9
ESSAY #5 ................................................................................................ 10
ESSAY #6 ................................................................................................ 11
ESSAY #7 ................................................................................................ 12
ESSAY #8 ................................................................................................ 13
ESSAY #9 ................................................................................................ 14
ESSAY #10 .............................................................................................. 16
ESSAY #11 .............................................................................................. 17
ESSAY #12 .............................................................................................. 18

The author of these essays worked as an IELTS examiner for more than
10 years and wanted to share his experience with candidates by
writing high scoring essays. His essays are not available in text form,
so I decided to compile them into a small book. For more information
you can visit his YouTube channel here :
https://www.youtube.com/@ieltsexaminerfiles661

2
ESSAY #1
The question:
Some people say that too much attention and too many resources are given to the
protection of wild animals and birds.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion ?

For many decades now, protecting animals and birds has been very important for humans. It
is certainly right that sufficient resources and attention are focused on this, but obviously
there are other priorities as well that need consideration.
It is obvious that wildlife is worthy of every energetic effort and resource. After all, once a
species is gone, it is gone forever, just like the Dodo. These days, this is of crucial importance,
as human populations and needs grow exponentially. For example, deforestation and cash
crops in Malaysia and Indonesia put pressure on rainforest biodiversity and the lives of animals
like orang-utans. Meanwhile, growing affluence in Vietnam and China is creating demand for
ivory poachers in Africa. Elsewhere, similarly ignorant customers who ought to know better
are causing tigers and other endangered species to be hunted. More rangers and other types
of enforcement can help.
On the other hand, resources and attention need to be balanced to take care of human needs
as well. There are still starving millions in Africa and other continents, displaced by war and
famine. These obviously need our active compassion. Millions of other people live slums the
world over, battling drugs, disease, poverty and a lack of education. Finally, global warming
and other environmental issues also demand our attention.
In conclusion, it is difficult to say that there are too many resources allocated to the world's
valuable fauna. However, an adequate balance needs to be struck in considering human and
broader priorities as well.

COMMENTS
I wrote the following essay, based on a real IELTS Task 2 essay question. I have written all my
own essays to support my work as an IELTS- preparation teacher as I have been dissatisfied
with text-book examples. As a former IELTS examiner, I believe this example would be awarded
a Band 9 score in a real IELTS test. It consists of 250 words exactly, although, contrary to official
instructions, anything from 240 words is acceptable and there is no maximum. The main

3
features of the essay have been highlighted. Likes, comments and subscriptions appreciated!
Ideally, the two body paragraphs should be of a roughly similar length, although in this case
the longer first body paragraph reflected my point of view in support of protecting wild
animals and birds.

4
ESSAY #2
The question (General Training):
People say that cars should be banned from the centres of large cities.
Do you agree or disagree?
Cars have spread across the world in plague proportions, causing congestion and pollution,
especially in the centres of large metropolises. Suggestions that vehicles should be restricted
from city centres certainly have their merits, though there are some disadvantages to be
considered as well.
Making sure cars stay away from city centres is generally a good idea, particularly if the central
city area is relatively small, like Melbourne. In this case, it would be easy for drivers to leave
their vehicles on the fringes of central areas and take public transport or walk the rest of the
way to their destination. Gridlock would be eased considerably and many commuters would
be encouraged to seek transport alternatives, like bicycles. The city centre would become a
calm, people-friendly oasis.
On the other hand, if the cities being considered for car bans have large built-up centres, like
Tokyo, this would place additional stress on public transport networks, and disadvantage the
elderly and disabled, who would otherwise enjoy maintaining their independence.
Supplementary parking for the cars left at the fringes would also be required, as well as new
pedestrian infrastructure. Finally, after all these changes, congestion would likely remain
outside the city centres anyway.
In conclusion, depending on individual circumstances, it is mostly easy to agree with the idea
of banning cars from big city centres. However, there are some disadvantages which need to
be kept in mind. Whichever solution is chosen, the issue of congestion caused by cars is
unlikely to disappear anytime soon.

COMMENTS
I wrote the following essay, based on a real IELTS Task 2 essay question. I have written all my
own essays to support my work as an IELTS- preparation teacher as I have been dissatisfied
with text-book examples.

5
As a former IELTS examiner, I believe this example would be awarded a Band 9 score in a real
IELTS test. It consists of 250 words exactly, although, contrary to official instructions, anything
from 240 words is acceptable and there is no maximum. The main features of the essay have
been highlighted. Likes, comments and subscriptions appreciated!
I am sometimes able to identify the (genuine) IELTS essay topics I use as either Academic (Ac)
or General Training (GT) and in this case it is a General Training topic. The difference in
question types is minimal, however, with the GT topics generally having a less-demanding
structure (e.g. agree/disagree) and the approach towards writing remains essentially the
same.

6
ESSAY #3
The question:
The use of mobile phones in certain places is just as antisocial as smoking. Smoking is
banned in certain places, so the use of mobile phones should also be banned.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Just like smoking, mobile phones can be a scourge. Indeed, there is certainly justification in
banning them in certain circumstances, though the situations where they are used cannot be
compared with the contexts in which people smoke.
There is no doubt that mobile phones should be banned in some situations. People shouldn't
touch their phones while driving, or walking along the street, since this is dangerous. In terms
of politeness, mobile phones should also not be used while participating in classes or
socialising with friends because this is simply rude. Clearly, strict regulations or at least
guidelines are therefore appropriate in such cases.
On the other hand, the dangers of smoking are completely different compared to mobile
phones, so any rules regarding bans should also be different. For example, if someone is
creating too much noise using a mobile phone on the train, individuals can merely put on a
set of headphones themselves and enjoy some hard-rockin' AC/DC. However, it is more
difficult to avoid the effects of smoking, so a blanket tobacco ban is appropriate in most public
spaces. On the other hand, if someone wants to smoke while driving around by themselves in
their car, this has little impact in terms of road safety, so a ban is unjustified.
In conclusion, while both mobile phones and smoking are hazards in their own ways, both
requiring some controls, they are very different and need different patterns of regulation.
Hopefully people can learn to use both in a responsible manner.

COMMENTS
I wrote the following essay, based on a real IELTS Task 2 essay question. I have written all my
own essays to support my work as an IELTS- preparation teacher as I have been dissatisfied
with text-book examples.
As a former IELTS examiner, I believe this example would be awarded a Band 9 score in a real
IELTS test. It consists of 250 words exactly, although, contrary to official instructions, anything
from 240 words is acceptable and there is no maximum. The main features of the essay have
been highlighted. Likes, comments and subscriptions appreciated!

7
I am sometimes able to identify the (genuine) IELTS essay topics I use as either Academic (Ac)
or General Training (GT) but in this case I am unsure. The difference in question types is
minimal, however, with the GT topics generally having a less-demanding structure (e.g.
agree/disagree) and the approach towards writing remains essentially the same.

8
ESSAY #4
The question:
Shops should not be allowed to sell any food or drink that has been scientifically proved to
be bad for people's health.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
These days there are many processed foods that are of questionable nutritional value, possibly
justifying bans. However, whether such foods are actually bad for people's health is up for
debate, and they should therefore generally continue to be sold.
There are many foods sold in supermarkets that are not particularly healthy, and there are
certainly grounds for banning them from sale. Soft drinks and high-fat fast foods are generally
energy dense but nutritionally poor and may lead to chronic or even fatal diseases like
diabetes or some cancers. If manufacturers were prevented from selling them, there would
be considerable savings in health costs and even deaths.
However, practically speaking there are probably insufficient reasons for preventing shops
from selling unhealthy food items. First of all, there is the dilemma over defining what is bad
for people's health. The effect on people's health of any food is likely to depend on the amount
consumed and any person's overall diet. Therefore, unless foods contain a particularly harmful
substance, drawing a clear line about what scientists might define as unhealthy or healthy is
very difficult, particularly since almost all foods contain useful calories for the body. In
addition, care needs to be taken not to affect people's individual freedoms with dietary
choices.
In conclusion, while there are some good arguments for banning foods that are unhealthy,
overall it can be said that such a decision too problematic. At the end of the day, individuals'
well-educated judgement calls may be the best approach.

9
ESSAY #5
The question:
Many people spend a lot of time using communications technology.
What are the reasons for this?
What effect does it have on these people's relationship with their friends and family?
These days there almost seems to be an excess of new technology enabling people to
communicate in a variety of ways. There are a number of reasons for this and it certainly does
have many effects on people's interactions with those closest to them.
Perhaps the main reason for people using new types of devices for communicating is the wide
availability of new technology. Few products that people use nowadays, including
smartphones and tablets, and applications like Skype or email, were available twenty or even
ten years ago. What has made these even more widespread is these technologies' ability to
facilitate our everyday activities, from quick daily communication to shopping. This is so much
the case that people have become dependent on them, and even addicted.
The effects of these technologies on relationships with people's nearest and dearest are both
positive and negative. People can indeed be closer to each other, maintaining closer and more
regular contact, but sometimes, unfortunately, electronic means replace face-to-face contact.
Similarly, while mobile phones can help people tee up restaurant nights and other social
occasions, it's no good if they spend dinner huddled over a glowing screen instead of enjoying
sparkling discussion with each other.
In conclusion, there are a number of reasons for people extensively using communications
technology. The effects, however, are both good and bad, probably depending on people's
habits. One thing's for sure, these various avenues of communication are going to remain with
us for a considerable time.
COMMENTS
The themes of the IELTS essay topics often repeat themselves and a related (also genuine)
topic I found was the following:
'With the development of communication technology, such as mobile phones, tablets and
other devices, some people think the disadvantages outweigh advantages. To what extent do
you agree or disagree?'
While some ideas could be used for both topics, test takers would be strongly encouraged to
address the specific points in each question.
10
ESSAY #6
The question:
A rise in the standard of living in a country often only seems to benefit cities rather than
rural areas.
What problems might this difference cause?
How might these problems be reduced?
Many countries have become more affluent in the past decade or two, although this has
disproportionately tended to advantage cities, while leaving country areas deprived. This
causes a number of issues, though some solutions might also be suggested.
There are a number of difficulties caused by differences in prosperity levels in a country. A
rush to urban areas is one of these, exacerbating difficulties in rural areas while putting
pressure on cities' infrastructure. Valuable regional industries and agriculture may be left to
wither and unemployment in cities may grow, possibly corresponding with greater crime
levels. The development a two-speed economy may also increase feelings of resentment, envy
and social division. This is particularly so in the country, where unemployment may
additionally lead to depression and substance abuse.
These problems can be mitigated through government-led action. Regional development
schemes can encourage businesses to invest in rural areas and improve infrastructure in these
places. Education is one particular area where a difference can be made. Mandated minimum
wages can also reduce the attractions of high city salaries, since the same basic pay will be
available nationwide. Finally, the tourism potential of country areas can be exploited more
fully by using suitable publicity campaigns, bringing income to depressed regions.
In conclusion, the unfortunate disparities between rural poverty and metropolitan affluence
result in a number of problems. Nevertheless, these can be addressed through a series of
measures. Hopefully these can bring about greater equality for people living in different areas
of the same country.

11
ESSAY #7
The question
Today, young people increasingly admire famous stars in the media and in sports, even
though these celebrities sometimes do not set a good example.
Is this a positive or negative development?
For many decades now, the media has promoted a variety of famous people, many of which
become idols for the young. This can be a positive phenomenon, but also a negative one,
depending on the circumstances.
There are many positive aspects of looking up to famous stars. Firstly, young people need to
admire more senior and successful members of the community, who can act as role models.
Muhammad AN is a fine example, particularly for African-American youth, who may need
special encouragement to aim high in life. In addition, such sportspeople and others in the
limelight have an image that young people can identify with as they develop their own sense
of self. This can be enjoyable and it also provides them with a distinct and attractive culture
that is perhaps very different from that of their stuffy parents.
On the other hand, there are some negative points related to admiring famous stars. While
young people might chuckle at the smutty humour of the comedy Ted, its star, Mark Wahlberg,
is a former drug addict and heavy duty convicted criminal. Music artist Chris Brown is another
well-known talent who got into trouble a few years ago, for beating up his girlfriend. These
are obviously not people to be wholeheartedly endorsed by undiscriminating young people.
In conclusion, there are obviously both positive and negative implications flowing from young
people admiring famous stars, depending on these people's backgrounds. In a media-
saturated era though, this is an issue that will continue into the future.

12
ESSAY #8
The question:
More and more people today want to own famous brands of clothes, cars and other items.
What are the reasons for this?
Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
For many decades now, those who can afford it have been able to use their money to buy
products that are recognised around the world. There are some major reasons for this
situation, and it can be seen as being both positive and negative.
There are many explanations for the worldwide pursuit of brand- name products. Better
communication is one of these, since information about well-known products can go viral,
while globalisation assists with distribution. Another reason is the growing numbers of
nouveau riches, who often want to advertise their wealth using clearly recognisable logos.
There are some advantages of goods bearing a famous name. Firstly, it's useful to be able to
select the best product based on the manufacturer's reputation. It is also quite egalitarian if
everyone chooses the same high-quality products, since Levis jeans and Samsung
smartphones need not necessarily be expensive. Indeed, with most products, there are hardly
any choices apart from the big players.
Unfortunately, there are some disadvantages to the pursuit of famous brands. It's sad if people
only seek to show off their trophy buys to others. It's also unfortunate that many people these
days are acquisitively materialistic, relentlessly planning their next prestigious purchases. Such
thinking might also eliminate small manufacturers from being considered.
In conclusion, for many reasons the interest in brand-name products is a fact these days, and
it can have some positive aspects. However, mostly we can see that brands have fed global
materialism and the spending of money for the purposes of greedy accumulation of goods.

COMMENTS
I usually advocate for a four-paragraph structure for any IELTS essay topic but on this occasion
decided to use five paragraphs, based on the complexity of the topic. The IELTS organisation
itself does not stipulate a particular number of paragraphs, as long as the criteria are satisfied,
but my usual commonsense perspective is to Keep It Simple (KIS) as candidates need to be
able to automatically use a very simple and repetitive structure in order to best consider the
changing demands of each new question and the language requirements that result.
13
ESSAY #9
The question
People in many countries today are encouraged to buy more and more consumer products.
Some people think that this development is good for the economy, while others think that
it is very bad for society as a whole.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
With growing affluence in many countries, people are keen to enjoy their new-found wealth
by stocking up on an array of enticing goods. There is little doubt that such consumerism is
good for the economy but there are disadvantages as well as advantages for our broader
community.
A conspicuous feature today is the growing affluence in many countries, causing people to buy
a full range of exciting consumer products and undoubtedly boosting the economy, especially
in manufacturing. Even in Australia, where few consumer goods are made, consumerism
provides people with jobs in such areas such as retail and distribution.
Of course, having a society obsessed with buying the very latest products is not necessarily a
good reflection of values. Nor is such rampant consumerism good for the environment,
particularly with the greenhouse gases generated by production and the waste caused by
disposing of obsolete products.
Nevertheless, it is clear that there are also positive implications of such consumerism for
society. It demonstrates a vibrant economy, which usually encourages social and political
stability. It also helps citizens to be up-to-date with the latest technology and to fulfil their
potential with a variety of interests.
In conclusion, the frenzied manner with which people in many parts of the world are buying
more consumer goods is definitely good for the economy and, to a large extent, good for
society as a whole. Nevertheless, there are some negative aspects of this trend which cannot
be forgotten.

COMMENTS
I usually advocate for a four-paragraph structure for any IELTS essay topic, although given the
complexity of this one I have chosen to write five paragraphs. The IELTS organisation itself
does not stipulate a particular number of paragraphs, as long as the criteria are satisfied, but
my usual commonsense perspective is to Keep It Simple (KIS). Candidates need to be able to

14
readily or 'automatically' use a very simple and repetitive structure in order to best focus their
mental powers towards the changing demands for language and ideas in each new question,
especially considering the tight time restraints involved.

15
ESSAY #10
The question:
An increasing number of people today change their career and place of residence several
times during their lives.
Is this a positive or negative development?
These days, people enjoy a great deal more mobility than they used to in the past. This
includes changing jobs and living environment, and is a mostly positive trend, despite a few
disadvantages.
There are certainly advantages of career changes. In the past, people were often tied to a
certain job, but that was not always the most appropriate one, especially in the long term,
and people sometimes find their true calling later in life. Employment conditions also trigger
changes, such as with the decline in Australian manufacturing. In this case workers need to
re-train in another sector of the economy.
Moving house or place of residence can also have advantages. Going overseas for work often
means a new career opportunity or promotion and the chance to broaden one's horizons in a
new country and culture. In addition, moving to a new area offers the exciting possibility of
new neighbours and living environment, with better amenities.
On the other hand, there may be some disadvantages to changes in career or place of
residence. Moves of any kind can be uncomfortable, especially for people who value
continuity and stability. This is particularly so if the change has been forced, as with a job
redundancy. Changes may also be negative for accompanying children and families,
necessitating new schools and friendship circles.
In conclusion, while changes in work and living environment are mostly positive, there are
some disadvantages as well. Nevertheless, this is a trend that will continue to prevail into the
future.

16
ESSAY #11
The question:
In some countries, air travel has become a much cheaper form of transport than in the past.
Some people say this is a positive development. Others disagree.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Many advances these days make life more comfortable, but the situation is often a double-
edged sword. Cheaper air travel is one of these developments that provides ordinary people
with great benefits, but it has some disadvantages as well.
There is little doubt that cheaper air travel is a positive phenomenon. International and long-
distance travel is more accessible, enabling average people to expand their horizons more
often. It's particularly useful for the elderly and incapacitated, who may otherwise not be able
to stand long car, bus or train journeys. It also helps migrants and international students to
find new opportunities, as well as to travel back to their homelands, especially in case of family
emergencies.
Equally, however, there are a number of negative aspects to more affordable air travel. One of
these is the contribution to global warming and air pollution. Any commercial airline flight
burns through many tons of kerosene that is turned into carbon that remains in the
atmosphere to retain the sun's heat. Another disadvantage is the ease with which diseases
and criminals of various types can be transported around the world. The AIDS epidemic is one
example of a disease that spread worldwide from its origins in Africa, while terrorists have
also exploited the ready availability of air travel to wreak havoc.
In conclusion, while there are obvious advantages to cheaper air travel, there is a similar
number of negative aspects. At the end of the day, though, it is difficult to stop the relentless
march of progress.

17
ESSAY #12
The question
Some working parents believe that childcare centres provide the best care for children who
are too young for school. Other working parents believe that family members such as
grandparents provide the best care.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Childcare is a difficult issue these days, as more parents feel the pressure to provide their
family with two incomes. In some cultures, childcare centres are often used to look after
children while parents work. Other societies to rely on relatives or an extended family. At the
end of the day, the best option depends on individual circumstances.
The number of childcare centres has mushroomed in recent years, and this can be the
preferred option when it comes to looking after children. After all, such centres should tick all
the regulatory boxes when it comes to facilities, hygiene, care and safety. This also frees up
the time of other possible carers, such as elderly grandparents, who simply may not have the
inclination, time or skills to deal with young children.
One the other hand, there is a good case for various relatives caring for pre-school children.
First, childcare-centre staff may lack the personal connection required to love and care for
young children. In this case, nappies may remain full and snotty noses and tears unwiped. The
biological link may well make the difference in terms of proper care, which comes from the
heart. The lives of elderly grandparents, for example, may also be enriched as they care for
younger relatives.
In conclusion, childcare centres may be the best option if relatives are unsuitable, unavailable
or unwilling. Conversely, relatives such as grandparents may be a better choice if they have
the right motivation and circumstances to accommodate young family members.

18