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Question:
You have recently received a message from a friend who lives in another country. He/She is planning to visit your hometown for the first time. Write a letter to your friend. In your letter:
ask about his/her travel plans and accommodation arrangements
suggest a natural place that he/she should visit
explain why you recommend this place
Sample Answer (Informal Letter)
Dear Aman,
I was absolutely thrilled to hear that you’re planning to visit my hometown! It’s been such a long time since we last met, and I can’t wait to show you around.
First of all, let me know about your travel plans. When exactly are you arriving, and how long are you planning to stay? Have you already booked your tickets? Also, what about your accommodation? If you haven’t made any arrangements yet, I’d strongly suggest staying at my place. It would be much more convenient, and we’d get plenty of time to catch up.
While you’re here, one natural place you definitely shouldn’t miss is the Riverside Nature Park on the outskirts of the city. It’s a breathtaking spot surrounded by lush greenery, rolling hills, and a peaceful river flowing right through the area. The fresh air and serene atmosphere make it the perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
I’m recommending this place because it truly reflects the natural beauty of our region. You can enjoy boating, hiking trails, and even capture some stunning photographs. Most importantly, it’s an ideal location to relax and unwind while experiencing the authentic charm of my hometown.
Do let me know your schedule soon so that I can plan everything accordingly. I’m really looking forward to your visit!
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Question:
Many parents work long hours in stressful jobs so that they can provide a good standard of living for their children. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages?
Sample Answer
Introduction
In today’s competitive world, many parents devote long hours to demanding professions in order to secure financial stability for their families. While this trend undoubtedly ensures a higher standard of living, I believe that its disadvantages outweigh its benefits due to its long-term impact on family relationships and children’s emotional well-being.
Body Paragraph 1 – Advantages
On the one hand, working extended hours enables parents to provide better educational opportunities and material comfort for their children. A stable and substantial income allows families to afford quality schooling, healthcare services, and extracurricular activities. These advantages can significantly enhance a child’s future prospects and social mobility.
Furthermore, financial security reduces economic hardship and protects families from unexpected crises. Parents who earn higher salaries are more likely to invest in savings and property, thereby ensuring long-term stability. In this sense, working in stressful yet well-paid jobs can be viewed as a responsible sacrifice for the benefit of children.
Body Paragraph 2 – Disadvantages
On the other hand, excessive working hours often come at the expense of family time. Children require emotional support, guidance, and active parental involvement during their formative years. When parents are frequently absent due to work commitments, children may feel neglected or emotionally disconnected. Over time, this can lead to behavioural issues and weakened family bonds.
Moreover, chronic workplace stress can negatively affect parents’ physical and mental health. Fatigue and anxiety may reduce the quality of interactions within the household, creating tension rather than harmony. Material comfort cannot fully compensate for the absence of affection and meaningful communication. Therefore, the emotional costs associated with this lifestyle can be substantial.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although working long hours enables parents to provide financial security and improved living standards, the emotional and psychological consequences for both parents and children are significant. Overall, the disadvantages of this development appear to outweigh its advantages, highlighting the need for a healthier work-life balance.
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Question:
Some people say the fashion industry is bad for the environment, as it encourages consumers to buy new clothes all the time. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Sample Answer
Introduction
The fashion industry has undergone rapid expansion in recent decades, largely driven by fast-changing trends and consumer demand. While some argue that this sector significantly harms the environment by promoting excessive consumption, I strongly agree with this view. The rise of fast fashion has contributed to environmental degradation, although certain measures can mitigate its impact.
Body Paragraph 1 – Environmental Damage Caused by Fashion Industry
One of the primary reasons the fashion industry is detrimental to the environment is its contribution to waste and pollution. Fast fashion brands produce garments at a rapid pace, encouraging consumers to frequently replace their wardrobes. As a result, millions of tons of textile waste end up in landfills each year.
Moreover, the manufacturing process involves the excessive use of water, chemicals, and energy. For instance, cotton production requires vast quantities of water, while synthetic fabrics release microplastics into water systems. Additionally, the transportation of clothing across international markets increases carbon emissions, further exacerbating climate change. These factors clearly demonstrate the environmental cost of overconsumption.
Body Paragraph 2 – Possible Solutions and Counterarguments
However, it is important to acknowledge that the industry also provides employment opportunities and supports economic growth. Therefore, completely eliminating it would not be practical. Instead, governments and companies should promote sustainable practices. For example, implementing eco-friendly production methods, recycling textiles, and encouraging consumers to purchase durable clothing can significantly reduce environmental harm.
Furthermore, raising public awareness about responsible consumption can shift consumer behaviour. If individuals prioritise quality over quantity and adopt sustainable fashion choices, the negative environmental impact can be minimised. Thus, the solution lies not only in regulating industries but also in changing consumer attitudes.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the fashion industry undeniably contributes to environmental damage due to its encouragement of frequent clothing purchases and resource-intensive production processes. Although it plays an important economic role, adopting sustainable manufacturing practices and promoting responsible consumer behaviour are essential to reducing its harmful effects.
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Question:
If you want to be successful at work, you should have high-level computer skills. Do you agree or disagree?
Sample Answer
Introduction
In the contemporary workplace, digital competence has become increasingly important across various industries. While some argue that advanced computer skills are essential for professional success, I partially agree with this view. Although technical proficiency offers significant advantages, other qualities such as communication skills and practical experience are equally crucial.
Body Paragraph 1 – Why Computer Skills Are Important
There is no denying that high-level computer skills enhance efficiency and productivity. In today’s technology-driven environment, most organisations rely on digital platforms for communication, data management, and project coordination. Employees who are proficient in advanced software, data analysis tools, and digital communication systems are better equipped to meet workplace demands.
Furthermore, possessing strong technical expertise can provide a competitive edge in the job market. Many high-paying roles in fields such as finance, marketing, and engineering require specialised digital knowledge. Without adequate computer literacy, employees may struggle to keep pace with rapid technological advancements, thereby limiting their career progression.
Body Paragraph 2 – Other Essential Skills for Success
However, success at work is not solely dependent on technological competence. Soft skills such as leadership, teamwork, and problem-solving play an equally significant role. For instance, a manager with exceptional communication abilities can inspire and coordinate a team effectively, even if they are not highly skilled in advanced software.
Moreover, certain professions, such as teaching, healthcare, or craftsmanship, prioritise interpersonal skills and hands-on expertise over sophisticated computer knowledge. In such fields, practical experience and emotional intelligence often outweigh technical abilities. Therefore, while computer skills are advantageous, they are not the sole determinant of professional achievement.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although high-level computer skills are undeniably valuable in the modern workplace and can accelerate career growth, they are not the only factor contributing to success. A balanced combination of technical proficiency and soft skills is essential for long-term professional development.
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Question:
A company has offered you a job, but you have decided not to accept it. Write a letter to the manager of the company. In your letter:
say how you feel about this job offer
explain why you have decided not to accept it
recommend someone else for the job
Sample Answer
Dear Mr. Sharma,
I hope this letter finds you well. I am writing to sincerely thank you for offering me the position of Marketing Executive at your esteemed organisation. I truly appreciate the confidence you have shown in my abilities, and I am honoured to have been considered for such a valuable opportunity.
After careful consideration, however, I regret to inform you that I will not be able to accept the offer. This was not an easy decision to make. Due to certain personal commitments and my recent enrolment in a professional certification programme, I believe I would not be able to dedicate the level of time and attention that the role rightfully deserves. I feel it would be unfair to accept the position without being fully committed.
That said, I would like to recommend my colleague, Mr. Amanpreet Singh, who possesses strong communication skills and extensive experience in digital marketing. He is highly responsible, hardworking, and would be a great asset to your team. I am confident that he would perform exceptionally well in this role.
I sincerely apologise for any inconvenience caused and hope we may have the opportunity to collaborate in the future. Thank you once again for your understanding and for this generous offer.
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Question:
Not all drivers obey the laws while driving on roads. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to fix this problem?
Sample Answer
In many countries, traffic regulations are designed to ensure road safety and maintain public order. However, a considerable number of motorists continue to violate these rules, thereby endangering themselves and others. This essay will discuss the primary reasons behind this issue and propose practical measures to address it effectively.
One of the principal reasons why drivers disregard traffic laws is a lack of strict enforcement. In some regions, penalties are either minimal or poorly implemented, which fails to deter reckless behaviour. As a result, motorists may exceed speed limits, ignore traffic signals, or engage in dangerous overtaking without fearing serious consequences.
Another significant factor is impatience and the fast-paced modern lifestyle. Many individuals are under constant pressure to meet deadlines, which often leads them to prioritise convenience over safety. Additionally, inadequate road safety education plays a role, as some drivers are not fully aware of the potential repercussions of their actions. This combination of weak supervision and irresponsible attitudes contributes substantially to the problem.
To tackle this issue, governments should impose stricter penalties and ensure consistent enforcement of traffic laws. For instance, implementing heavy fines, licence suspension, and advanced surveillance systems such as speed cameras can serve as powerful deterrents. When drivers realise that violations will inevitably result in punishment, compliance is likely to increase.
Furthermore, public awareness campaigns should be launched to promote responsible driving habits. Educational programmes in schools and driving institutes can instil a sense of civic responsibility from an early age. In addition, improving road infrastructure and signage can reduce confusion and minimise unintentional violations. A comprehensive approach combining enforcement, education, and infrastructure development would significantly enhance road discipline.
In conclusion, the failure of some drivers to adhere to traffic laws stems mainly from weak enforcement, personal irresponsibility, and insufficient awareness. Nevertheless, this problem can be mitigated through stricter penalties, better education, and improved infrastructure. By adopting these measures, authorities can foster a safer and more orderly driving environment.
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SECTION 3
READING PASSAGE 3
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 27-40 which are based on Reading Passage 3 below.
Language Strategy
In
Multinational Company
A
The importance of language management in multinational companies has never been greater than today. Multinationals are becoming ever more conscious of the importance of global coordination as a source of competitive advantage and language remains the ultimate barrier to aspirations of international harmonization. Before attempting to consider language management strategies, companies will have to evaluate the magnitude of the language barrier confronting them and in doing so they will need to examine it in three dimensions: the Language Diversity, the Language Penetration and the Language Sophistication. Companies next need to turn their attention to how they should best manage language. There is a range of options from which MNCs can formulate their language strategy.
B
Lingua Franca: The simplest answer, though realistic only for English speaking companies, is to rely on ones native tongue. As recently as 1991 a survey of British exporting companies found that over a third used English exclusively in dealings with foreign customers. This attitude that “one language fits all” has also been carried through into the Internet age. A survey of the web sites of top American companies confirmed that over half made no provision for foreign language access, and another found that less than 10% of leading companies were able to respond adequately to emails other than in the company’s language. Widespread though it is however, reliance on a single language is a strategy that is fatally flawed. It makes no allowance for the growing trend in Linguistic Nationalism whereby buyers in Asia, South America and the Middle East in particular are asserting their right to “work in the language of the customer”. It also fails to recognize the increasing vitality of languages such as Spanish, Arabic and Chinese that overtime are likely to challenge the dominance of English as a lingua franca. In the IT arena it ignores the rapid globalization of the Internet where the number of English-language e-commerce transactions, emails and web sites, is rapidly diminishing as a percentage of the total. Finally, the total reliance on a single language puts the English speaker at risk in negotiations. Contracts, rules and legislation are invariably written in the local language, and a company unable to operate in that language is vulnerable.
C
Functional Multilingualism: Another improvised approach to Language is to rely on what has been termed “Functional Multilingualism”. Essentially what this means is to muddle through, relying on a mix of languages, pidgins and gestures to communicate by whatever means the parties have at their disposal. In a social context such a shared effort to make one another understand might be considered an aid to the bonding process with the frustration of communication being regularly punctuated by moments of absurdity and humor. However, as the basis for business negotiations it appears very hit-and-nuts. And yet Hagen’s recent study suggests that 16% of international business transaction; are conducted in a “cocktail of languages.” Functional Multilingualism shares the same defects as reliance on a lingua franca and increases the probability of cognitive divergence between the parties engaged in the communication.
D
External Language Resources: A more rational and obvious response to the language barrier is to employ external resources such as translators and interpreters, and certainly there are many excellent companies specialized in these fields. However, such a response is by no means an end to the language barrier. For a start these services can be very expensive with a top Simultaneous Interpreter, commanding daily rates as high as a partner in an international consulting company. Secondly, any good translator or interpreter will insist that to be fully effective they must understand the context of the subject matter. This is not always possible. In some cases it is prohibited by the complexity or specialization of the topic. Sometimes by lack of preparation time but most often the obstacle is the reluctance of the parties to explain the wider context to an ‘outsider’. Another problem is that unless there has been considerable pre-explaining between the interpreter and his clients it is likely that there will be ambiguity and cultural overtones in the source messages the interpreter has to work with. They will of course endeavor to provide a hi-fidelity translation but in this circumstance the interpreter has to use initiative and guess work. This clearly injects a potential source of misunderstanding into the proceedings. Finally while a good interpreter will attempt to convey not only the meaning but also the spirit of any communication, there can be no doubt that there is a loss of rhetorical power when communications go through a third party. So in situations requiring negotiation, persuasion, humor etc. the use of an interpreter is a poor substitute for direct communication.
E
Training: The immediate and understandable reaction to any skills-shortage in a business is to consider personnel development and certainly the language training industry is well developed. Offering programs at almost every level and in numerous languages. However, without doubting the value of language training no company should be deluded into believing this to be assured of success. Training in most companies is geared to the economic cycle. When times are good, money is invested in training. When belts get tightened training is one of the first “luxuries” to be pared down. In a study conducted across four European countries, nearly twice as many companies said they needed language training in coming years as had conducted training in past years. This disparity between “good intentions” and “actual delivery”, underlines the problems of relying upon training for language skills. Unless the company is totally committed to sustaining the strategy even though bad times, it will fail.
F
One notable and committed leader in the field of language training has been the Volkswagen Group. They have developed a language strategy over many years and in many respects can be regarded as a model of how to manage language professionally. However, the Volkswagen approach underlines that language training has to be considered a strategic rather than a tactical solution. In their system to progress from “basics” to “communications competence” in a language requires the completion of 6 languages stages each one demanding approximately 90 hours of refresher course, supported by many more hours of self-study, spread over a 6-9 months period. The completion of each stage is marked by a post-stage achievement test, which is a pre-requisite for continued training. So even this professionally managed program expects a minimum of three years of fairly intensive study to produce an accountant. Engineer, buyer or salesperson capable of working effectively in a foreign language. Clearly companies intending to pursue this route need to do so with realistic expectations and with the intention of sustaining the program over many years. Except in terms of “brush-up” courses for people who were previously fluent in a foreign language, training cannot be considered a quick fix.
Questions 27-32
Complete the following summary of the Whole Paragraphs of Reading Passage, choosing A-L words from the following options.
Write your answers in boxes 27-32 on your answer sheet.
MNCs often encounter language barrier in their daily, strategy, then they seek several approaches to solve such problems. First, native language gives them a realistic base in a different language speaking country, but problem turned up when they deal with oversea 27 ………………….. For example, operation on translation of some key 28..…………………, it is inevitable to generate differences by rules from different countries. Another way is to rely on a combination of spoken language and 29……………………, yet a report written that over one-tenth business 30……………………. Processed in a party language setting. Third way: hire translators. However, firstly it is 31………………………, besides if they are not well-prepared, they have to resort to his/her own 32..………………….. work.
A gestures B clients C transaction
D understanding and assumption E accurate
F documents G managers H body language
I long-term J effective K rivals L costly
Questions 33-39
Answer the questions below.
Choose NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS AND/OR A NUMBER from the passage for each answer.
33 What understandable reactions does Training pay attention to according to the author?
34 In what term does the writer describe training during economy depression?
35 What contribution does Volkswagen Group set up for multinational companies?
36 What does Volkswagen Group consider language training as in their company?
37 How many stages are needed from basic course to advanced in training?
38 How long does a refresher course (single stage) need normally?
39 At least how long is needed for a specific professional to acquire a foreign language?
Question 40
Choose the correct letter A, B, C or D.
Write your answers in boxes 40 on your answer sheet.
What is the Main function of this passage?
A to reveal all kinds of language problems that companies may encounter
B to exhibits some well known companies successfully dealing with language difficulties
C to evaluate various approaches for language barrier in multinational companies
D to testify that training is only feasible approach to solve language problem
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location: Canada (IELTS General Training)
Task Type: Writing Task 1 – Formal Letter
Question:
An international company is opening a branch in your town and you would like to work for this company.
Write a letter to the Human Resource Manager of the company. In your letter:
say what kind of work you are interested in
explain why you want to work for the company
ask some questions about the company
Sample Answer (Band 8 Level)
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to express my keen interest in potential employment opportunities at your newly established branch in our town. I recently learned about your company’s expansion, and I would be grateful for the opportunity to contribute to your organisation.
I am particularly interested in working in the customer service or administrative department. I hold a bachelor’s degree in Business Administration and have over three years of experience in client handling and office coordination. In my previous role, I was responsible for managing customer inquiries, maintaining records, and assisting in daily operational tasks. I believe these skills would enable me to make a meaningful contribution to your team.
I am eager to work for your company because of its strong international reputation and commitment to professional excellence. Your organisation is widely recognised for maintaining high standards and offering career development opportunities to employees. Being part of such a dynamic and globally recognised company would allow me to enhance my skills and grow professionally.
I would appreciate it if you could kindly provide further details regarding the recruitment process and the qualifications required for the available positions. I would also like to know whether there will be training programmes for new employees and what the expected working hours would be.
Thank you for considering my application. I look forward to your response.
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Question:
Some people think that children should not do activities which are dangerous. Do you agree or disagree?
Sample Answer
Introduction
In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate about whether children should be completely prevented from engaging in dangerous activities. While some people argue that young individuals must be shielded from all forms of risk, I partially disagree with this view. Although safety should undoubtedly be a priority, controlled exposure to certain risky activities can contribute significantly to a child’s overall development.
Body Paragraph 1
On the one hand, it is understandable why many parents oppose allowing children to take part in hazardous activities. Youngsters are often unaware of potential consequences and may act impulsively, which can lead to serious injuries. For instance, extreme sports or unsupervised outdoor adventures may result in accidents that could have long-term physical or psychological effects. Moreover, parents have a moral obligation to safeguard their children’s well-being. From this perspective, restricting dangerous pursuits appears to be a responsible and protective measure.
Body Paragraph 2
On the other hand, completely eliminating all forms of risk may hinder a child’s personal growth. Engaging in supervised adventurous activities, such as rock climbing or cycling, can foster resilience, self-confidence, and problem-solving skills. Taking calculated risks allows children to step out of their comfort zones and develop independence. Furthermore, minor setbacks or injuries often teach valuable life lessons about caution and responsibility. Therefore, rather than imposing an absolute ban, it would be more beneficial to ensure proper supervision and safety precautions.
Conclusion
In conclusion, although protecting children from serious harm is essential, preventing them from participating in all dangerous activities may do more harm than good. I believe that carefully monitored risk-taking experiences play a crucial role in shaping confident and capable individuals.
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7th FEB 2026 ACADEMIC READING PASSAGE 2
Playing with Science
A. The connection between science and play is not often discussed, perhaps because scientists take it for granted, or because they are a little self-conscious about it and therefore try to hide it. In this context, it might describe a number of different activities. Play might involve the exploration of new uses for everyday objects just for curiosity; it could also include word jokes, or the playing of jokes or tricks upon other scientists; the element of play in science is thus an elusive and difficult topic, but it is fundamental to the experience of scientists.
B. One example of this connection is the jigsaw puzzle. Such puzzles present their players with two-dimensional fragments, each with a characteristic shape, from which to reconstruct an overall picture. Guessing the solution of a scientific problem has many similarities to completing a jigsaw puzzle. The scientists inspect each piece of data for a possible fit with its neighbours and, bit by bit, construct a whole argument. People who are good at jigsaw puzzles are able to guess which piece will fit even before trying it. In the same way, the best scientists are those who make the best guesses.
C. But scientists do not play only at out-guessing each other, or at putting together pieces to complete a puzzle. They also regard their work as ‘playing with toys’. Joseph Lister, a professor of chemistry at Northwestern University in the US, shed some light on this tendency. In a letter he wrote the following: When I grew up, every kid put in some serious sandbox time, and it often involved building… complex sand structures around which fantasies were composed… The organic chemistry lab at Yale, and chemical transformations took place. The odours were pleasant, and the physical process of working with our hands, with sand, was satisfying. By the end of the year, I knew that I wanted to be an organic chemist, as I realised one could play in the sandbox for a living.
Indeed, many scientists amuse themselves by ‘playing’ with various ‘toys’ of their trade, perhaps coming up with ingenious devices to get a particular job done, or diverting a piece of commercial equipment for novel scientific purposes. The apparatus put together by Robert Millikan and Harvey Fletcher to measure the charge of the electron, which involved a perfume atomiser bought at a local pharmacy, is a classic example of such inspired tinkering.
D. Whereas society often keeps a lid on playfulness, science encourages and nurtures it. Take, for example, the funny names that scientists have given to various chemical substances: trisactane, widowpane, penguinone or megaphone. Each class of organic molecules includes a few such humorous names. Similar fun is had in other fields of science.
E. Hoaxes are a further aspect of the playfulness of scientists. A relatively recent example concerns the ‘Plate of Brass’, which stated England’s claim to California and was supposedly left by the English navigator Sir Francis Drake during his visit in 1579. A brass plate thought to be Drake’s was discovered in the 1930s. But in 1977, Helen Michel and Frank Asaro, of the Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory, showed that the copper and zinc used in the plate were of a higher quality than would have been available in the 1500s. They concluded that Drake’s plate was most likely crafted much closer to the time when it was first brought to light.
F. Shortly afterwards, staff at the University of California announced that the artefact was devised as a practical joke by a group of friends of Herbert E. Bolton, who directed the Bancroft Library at the University’s Berkeley campus. Bolton, it seems, was intrigued by tales of Drake having installed a plate to record his visit to California, and often urged his students to look for it. Some of his friends decided to play a joke on him, but things misfired after Bolton went public and announced that the relic was authentic before he could be told about the joke.
G. Sometimes hoaxes serve a useful purpose. Some years ago, Nathan Lewis, a professor of chemistry at California Institute of Technology, and a graduate student were doing experiments in the laboratory at a senior professor, Harry Gray. Another co-worker had the habit of going through their data and rushing to Gray with his interpretation. Lewis decided to set a trap for the co-worker. He recalled that his lab manufactured an NMR spectrum. ‘We left it out as bait. Our colleague took it and wrote up a paper on how important this result was. He was ready to go right to the Journal of the American Chemical Society… We did not let him mail it [but] this stopped him temporarily from taking our data and interpreting it before making sure that it was right.’
H. But is the playfulness of science usually so helpful? One might argue that to play a practical joke is a waste of time. So why do it? Perhaps play is an inherent part of the human condition. The psychologist’s answer might be that scientists tend to play because science presents them with too much seriousness. Another possibility might be that scientists like to play because they tend to be very young. Some disciplines, mathematics especially, have a reputation for the narrow window of creativity in youth. But it may also be that there is something else at work here. Playing with ideas, after all, is what science is all about. A playful, childlike attitude may be extremely fruitful, and scientists should not be too embarrassed to acknowledge that play is often what motivates them.
Questions 14–26
You should spend about 20 minutes on Questions 14–26, which are based on Reading Passage 2.
Questions 14–20
Reading Passage 2 has eight paragraphs, A–H. Which paragraph contains the following information? Choose the correct letter, A–H, in boxes 14–20.
a description of how a test showed evidence to be fake
reasons why scientists may be unwilling to admit that they play
the result of a trick going wrong
the similarity between a skill used in play and one used in science
how a group of scientists stopped a colleague misusing their results
some examples of the playful nature of scientific language
an example of an everyday object put to a scientific use
Questions 21–22
Choose TWO correct answers.
21–22. Which TWO of the following reasons are given as possible explanations of scientists’ play behaviour?
A. Play may provide relief from their work. B. Scientists sometimes spend time as teachers. C. The age of scientists predisposes them to play. D. Scientists get ideas from children’s questions. E. Scientists are secretive about their work.
Questions 23–26
Complete the summary below. Write NO MORE THAN THREE WORDS from the passage for each answer.
Researchers at Caltech found that a colleague had been stealing data by using a hoax involving a fake NMR spectrum to trap the offender.
A mystery concerns a plate which a famous ________ is said to have left behind on a visit to California.
The ________ that the plate was made of later revealed that it was a fake.
A hoax carried out by friends of the director of the ________.
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IELTS General Training – Writing Task 1 (Letter)
Question
You have seen an advertisement in the local newspaper for swimming lessons at your community sports centre. You want to find out more about these lessons.
Write a letter to the manager of the sports centre. In your letter:
describe how well you can swim at the moment
explain why you want to learn to swim better
enquire about the time and cost of the swimming lessons
You should write at least 150 words.
Dear Sir or Madam,
I am writing to enquire about the swimming lessons that were recently advertised in the local newspaper at your community sports centre. I am interested in joining the course and would like some further information.
At present, I have a basic level of swimming ability. I am able to swim short distances using simple strokes; however, I lack proper technique and confidence, particularly in deeper water. As I have never received formal training, I feel that professional instruction would help me improve significantly.
The main reason I would like to enhance my swimming skills is to improve my overall fitness and personal safety. Swimming is an excellent full-body exercise, and I also wish to feel more confident when visiting swimming pools or beaches with my family. Furthermore, strong swimming skills are an important life-saving ability.
I would appreciate it if you could provide details regarding the lesson schedule, including class timings and duration. I would also like to know the cost of the course and whether there are any beginner-level classes available on weekends.
Thank you for your time and assistance. I look forward to your reply.
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✅ IELTS Speaking – Full Sample Answers
🔹 Part 1: Interview
1. Where do you live?
I live in a residential area of my city, which is quite peaceful compared to the city centre. It’s well-connected by public transport, but at the same time, it’s not very noisy or crowded. I’ve been living there for several years now, so I feel quite attached to the place.
2. Do you live in a flat or in a house?
I live in a flat. It’s part of a medium-sized apartment building with basic facilities like parking and security. Although a house has its own charm, I personally find a flat more convenient and easier to manage.
3. Why do you like your home?
I like my home mainly because it’s comfortable and gives me a sense of peace. It’s well-organised, has enough natural light, and most importantly, it feels safe. After a long day, coming back home really helps me relax and recharge.
4. What kind of food did you like when you were a child?
When I was a child, I mostly enjoyed simple and homemade food. I especially liked traditional dishes and snacks, as well as sweets. At that age, I wasn’t very concerned about health; taste mattered more than anything else.
5. Have your dietary habits changed over time?
Yes, they have changed significantly. As a child, I preferred junk food and sugary items, but now I’m much more health-conscious. I try to maintain a balanced diet and avoid overeating processed food, although I still enjoy occasional treats.
6. Do people prefer different food in different seasons?
Yes, definitely. In hot weather, people usually prefer light and refreshing food, such as fruits or cold drinks, whereas in winter, they tend to eat hot, spicy, and energy-rich meals. Seasonal preferences are quite common.
7. What hobby did you have when you were a child?
When I was a child, my main hobby was playing outdoor games with friends, especially in the evening. I also enjoyed cycling and watching cartoons. These activities kept me active and entertained.
8. Do you like watching TV programs?
Yes, I do, but not excessively. I usually watch TV to relax or to gain information. I prefer meaningful content rather than random entertainment.
9. How often do you watch TV?
I don’t watch TV every day. On average, I watch it a few times a week, mostly on weekends or when I have some free time.
🔹 Part 2: Cue Card
Describe a TV show or online program
You should say:
what it is
where you watch it
what it is about
and explain why you like it.
Sample Answer
I would like to talk about an online program that I really enjoy watching, which is a popular educational and motivational talk show available on YouTube.
I usually watch it on my smartphone or laptop, especially during my free time in the evening. The program mainly focuses on self-improvement, career guidance, and real-life experiences shared by successful people.
What I like most about this show is that it is not only informative but also very practical. The speakers share real examples rather than just theoretical ideas, which makes the content easy to relate to. Moreover, the language used is simple, so it’s suitable for people from different backgrounds.
Overall, I like this program because it motivates me to improve myself and helps me gain new perspectives on life. Watching it feels like a productive use of my time rather than mere entertainment.
🔹 Part 3: Discussion
1. How do people choose TV programs?
People usually choose TV programs based on their personal interests, age, and mood. Some prefer entertainment, while others watch TV for information or relaxation. Recommendations from friends and online reviews also play an important role.
2. Should parents choose TV programs for their children?
Yes, I believe parents should guide their children’s TV choices, especially at a young age. Some content may not be suitable for children, so parental supervision is important. However, as children grow older, they should gradually be allowed to choose responsibly.
3. What kind of issues are represented in TV shows?
TV shows represent a wide range of issues, including social problems, family relationships, education, politics, and mental health. Many programs try to reflect real-life situations to create awareness among viewers.
4. How does screen time affect people?
Screen time has both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, it can be educational and relaxing. However, excessive screen time can lead to health issues like eye strain, lack of physical activity, and reduced social interaction.
5. What kind of problems can people have due to watching TV a lot?
Watching too much TV can cause several problems, such as obesity, poor posture, and sleep disturbances. It may also reduce productivity and affect mental health if people become addicted to it.
6. What kind of TV programs are popular among people?
Nowadays, reality shows, dramas, news programs, and online streaming content are extremely popular. People also enjoy shows that provide entertainment along with useful information.
