Human civilisation has achieved remarkable technological progress over the past 100 years. Some people think this has also had negative effects on our lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree? | Real exam ielts writing task 2

Human civilisation has achieved remarkable technological progress over the past 100 years. Some people think this has also had negative effects on our lives.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?

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📝 Sample Answer: Band 8+

Over the past century, humanity has witnessed extraordinary advancements in technology, transforming almost every aspect of our lives. While some argue that this progress has brought about detrimental consequences, I strongly believe that the positive outcomes far outweigh the negative effects.

On the one hand, it is undeniable that technological progress has introduced certain drawbacks. One significant issue is the growing dependency on machines and devices, which has led to a sedentary lifestyle and various health problems such as obesity and poor mental well-being. Additionally, the rise of social media and digital communication has, in some cases, weakened real-life social connections, making people feel isolated despite being constantly connected online. Another major concern is environmental degradation caused by industrialisation and overuse of natural resources, which has been exacerbated by technological advancement.

However, the benefits of technological progress are far more profound and impactful. Medical technology, for instance, has saved millions of lives through advanced treatments, vaccines, and improved healthcare systems. Similarly, communication has become more efficient and accessible, enabling people to connect globally within seconds. Furthermore, technology has revolutionised industries, creating new opportunities for economic growth, innovation, and improving overall living standards. Without these developments, the world would not have achieved such remarkable improvements in education, science, and quality of life.

In conclusion, although technological progress has undeniably caused some negative effects, its contribution to human development, health, and well-being cannot be overlooked. Therefore, I believe it remains largely a positive force in shaping modern society.

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💡 Key Ideas

✅ Positive impacts:

• Medical advancements → better healthcare, increased life expectancy.

• Easier global communication → more connected world.

• Economic growth → innovation and improved living standards.

• Access to information → education, research, empowerment.

✅ Negative impacts:

• Sedentary lifestyles → health issues.

• Social isolation → weaker personal relationships.

• Environmental damage → pollution, climate change.

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📖 Vocabulary (used in the answer):

Word/Phrase	Meaning
extraordinary advancements	remarkable progress
transforming almost every aspect	changing everything significantly
detrimental consequences	harmful results
sedentary lifestyle	inactive way of living
mental well-being	state of mental health
weakened social connections	reduced real-life interactions
environmental degradation	harm to the environment
profound and impactful	deeply significant
economic growth	increase in wealth and production
living standards	quality of life
remarkable improvements	impressive developments
undeniably	without doubt
overlooked	ignored or not noticed
largely a positive force	mostly beneficial

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🔷 Additional Usable Words & Phrases (not used but useful here):

• double-edged sword → something with both benefits and harms.

• technological marvels → impressive achievements in technology.

• automation → machines replacing human work.

• digital divide → gap between those with and without access to technology.

• overreliance on technology → depending too much on machines.

• sustainability → ability to maintain resources without harming the future.

• disruptive innovation → technology that completely changes industries.

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🔷 Useful Sentence Starters:

✅ It is undeniable that…
✅ While some argue that…
✅ One significant concern is…
✅ However, the benefits… far outweigh the drawbacks.
✅ Therefore, I firmly believe…

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Describe a sports event you would like to attend | Recent exam ielts speaking cue card 2025 | New cue cards 2025 | May to august 2025 new cue cards |

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📝 IELTS Speaking: Oman – July 2025

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🎤 Part 1: Interview Questions & Sample Answers

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🔷 Do you work or study?

Honestly speaking, I’m currently a student pursuing my bachelor’s degree in computer science. I chose this field because I’ve always been fascinated by technology and how it shapes our lives.

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🔷 What do you enjoy most about your job or studies?

What I enjoy most is the opportunity to work on creative and challenging projects, especially ones that involve problem-solving. It gives me a sense of achievement and keeps me motivated to learn more.

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🔷 Would you like to change your job or field in the future?

At the moment, I don’t see myself changing fields because I genuinely enjoy what I’m doing. But in the future, I’d like to specialize further, maybe in artificial intelligence or data science.

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🔷 Do you like sewing or making clothes by hand?

To be honest, sewing isn’t really my thing. I’ve never been good at it and I prefer buying ready-made clothes. But I do admire people who can create beautiful garments by hand.

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🔷 Have you ever made or altered clothes yourself?

Only once or twice. I remember stitching a button back on a shirt and shortening the sleeves of a T-shirt. It wasn’t perfect, but it got the job done.

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🔷 Do you enjoy taking photographs?

Yes, definitely! Photography is one of my hobbies. I love capturing special moments, nature, and even candid shots of my friends and family.

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🔷 How often do you take photos?

I’d say at least a few times a week. Whenever I go out or see something interesting, I make sure to take a quick photo to preserve the memory.

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🔷 Would you ever consider becoming a professional photographer?

I don’t think I’d take it up as a full-time career, but I would love to improve my skills and maybe even take it up as a side hustle someday.

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🏟️ Part 2: Cue Card

🎽 Describe a sports event you would like to attend.

You should say:

• what the event is

• where and when it would take place

• who you would like to go with
  and explain why you would like to attend this event.

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✅ Sample Answer:

Honestly speaking, one sports event I would really love to attend is a FIFA World Cup football final. I’ve been a huge football fan since childhood, and watching the World Cup final live would be a dream come true for me.

This event usually takes place every four years in a different country. If I had the chance, I’d like to go to the next final, which I believe will be in Canada, USA, and Mexico in 2026. I’d prefer to watch it in Canada because I’ve always wanted to visit there too.

I would definitely like to go with my best friend Rahul, who is also a passionate football fan. We’ve watched countless matches together on TV, but experiencing the electrifying atmosphere of a real stadium would be unforgettable.

What makes this event so special is the energy of the crowd, the chance to see the world’s best players up close, and the sense of unity among fans from all over the world. It’s not just about the game—it’s about the experience, the passion, and the memories you create.

So all in all, attending a FIFA World Cup final is at the very top of my bucket list, and I truly hope I can make it happen someday.

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🗨️ Part 3: Discussion Questions & Sample Answers

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🔷 Do you think it is important for children to watch sports events?

Yes, definitely. Watching sports events can teach children valuable lessons like teamwork, discipline, and the importance of practice. It also inspires them to be more active and healthy.

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🔷 How can watching sports influence young people?

It can have a big impact. For example, young people might develop a passion for a particular sport, adopt healthier lifestyles, and even dream of becoming athletes themselves.

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🔷 Should schools give more importance to physical education?

Absolutely. Physical education is just as important as academics because it promotes fitness, teamwork, and mental well-being. Schools should make it a regular and compulsory part of the curriculum.

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🔷 Do you think international sports events bring people together?

Yes, they do. Events like the Olympics or the World Cup unite people from different countries and cultures, fostering mutual respect and global friendship.

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🔷 Why do some people prefer to watch sports rather than play them?

Many people enjoy the excitement of watching professionals play at a high level. Also, not everyone has the time or physical ability to play, so watching becomes a way to stay connected to the sport.

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🔷 What role do sports play in national identity?

Sports are a huge part of national pride. When a country’s team wins, it gives people a sense of unity and achievement. It also helps showcase the country’s talent and culture on a global stage.

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💬 Vocabulary:

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Electrifying atmosphere	Very exciting and full of energy
Bucket list	A list of things you want to do in life
Unforgettable experience	Something you’ll always remember
Sense of unity	Feeling of togetherness
Passion	Strong love or enthusiasm
Inspire	Motivate or encourage
Teamwork	Working well with others
National pride	Happiness and honor in one’s country

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🧠 Idioms & Natural Phrases:

✅ Dream come true — A wish that becomes reality
✅ On the top of my bucket list — Most desired goal
✅ Once in a lifetime experience — Very rare and special
✅ Make memories — Create moments to remember
✅ Catch the action live — Watch in person
✅ Feel the vibe — Experience the atmosphere

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🔗 Template for Cue Card:

Honestly speaking, one [event/place/person] I’d really like to [attend/visit/meet] is [what]. I’ve been [interested/passionate] about it for a long time.

This event takes place [when/where], and I’d love to go with [person]. The main reason I want to experience it is because [why it’s special/important].

So all in all, this is something that’s at the top of my bucket list, and I hope to make it happen someday.

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Many believe that the best way to ensure a happier society is to reduce the difference in income earnings between the rich and poor. To what extent do you agree or disagree? | Real exam ielts writing task 2 |

Sample Answer

Many believe that the best way to ensure a happier society is to reduce the difference in income earnings between the rich and poor. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In recent times, the widening gap between the rich and the poor has become a pressing concern in many countries. Some argue that narrowing this gap by reducing income inequality is the most effective way to create a happier society. I largely agree with this view, although I believe there are additional factors that also contribute significantly to societal happiness.

On the one hand, it is undeniable that reducing income disparity can help foster a more content and harmonious society. A significant income gap often leads to resentment and social tensions, as the disadvantaged may feel excluded and powerless compared to the affluent. By implementing fair taxation policies and ensuring equal access to opportunities, governments can create a more level playing field, which can alleviate feelings of injustice and promote social cohesion. For example, Scandinavian countries, which have some of the lowest income inequalities in the world, consistently rank high in global happiness indexes, suggesting a strong link between economic equality and well-being.

Moreover, reducing income differences can improve access to basic needs such as healthcare, education, and housing for all citizens. When individuals are able to meet their essential needs without undue hardship, they are more likely to experience satisfaction and a sense of security, which are vital components of happiness. By contrast, in societies with extreme wealth concentration, many people are left struggling to survive while a small elite enjoys excessive luxury, which can breed widespread dissatisfaction.

However, it is important to recognize that income equality alone does not guarantee happiness. Other factors, such as mental health support, work-life balance, and strong social relationships, also play crucial roles in determining overall well-being. For instance, even in societies where the income gap is narrow, if people feel socially isolated or overwhelmed by work-related stress, their happiness may still be compromised. Therefore, while reducing income disparity is a necessary step, it should be complemented by broader efforts to improve quality of life.

In conclusion, I believe that reducing the gap between rich and poor is a fundamental and effective way to build a happier society, as it fosters fairness and provides everyone with equal opportunities. However, governments and communities should also address other aspects of well-being to ensure a truly content and balanced society.

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📘 High-level Vocabulary Used in the Essay

Word/Phrase	Meaning / Use
widening gap	growing difference
pressing concern	urgent issue
narrowing the gap	reducing the difference
income inequality / disparity	unequal earnings
foster a harmonious society	help build a peaceful community
resentment	bitterness, anger
social cohesion	unity among people
level playing field	equal chances for everyone
alleviate	ease, reduce
well-being	state of being healthy, happy
disadvantaged	poor or underprivileged people
affluent	rich people
widespread dissatisfaction	unhappiness among many
vital components	essential parts
excessive luxury	too much comfort and wealth
overwhelmed by stress	feeling too much pressure
complemented by	supported by
quality of life	overall standard of living
fundamental	basic and very important
content society	satisfied and happy population

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💡 Additional Useful Vocabulary for Similar Topics

• economic disparity = difference in wealth

• social justice = fairness in society

• wealth redistribution = transferring wealth to reduce inequality

• meritocracy = system where success is based on ability, not wealth

• poverty alleviation = reducing poverty

• equal opportunity = same chances for all

• socio-economic divide = division in society due to wealth differences

• upward mobility = ability to improve one’s economic status

• living standards = level of material comfort

• materialism vs contentment = focus on money vs happiness

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Describe a person you know with lots of energy | Real exam ielts speaking cue cards | New Cue cards 2025 pdf |

 Cue Card: Describe a person you know with lots of energy

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✅ Sample Answer:

Honestly speaking, the most energetic person I know is my childhood friend Rahul. We’ve known each other for years as we grew up in the same neighborhood and even studied in the same school.

What really sets Rahul apart is his endless enthusiasm and stamina. Whether it’s playing sports, organizing events, working on projects, or even socializing—he’s always full of life and seems to have more hours in the day than anyone else. I’ve seen him wake up early for a run, attend classes, help others with assignments, and still have the energy to hang out and crack jokes late into the night.

I think Rahul is like this because he genuinely enjoys staying active. He’s also very health-conscious—he eats a balanced diet, drinks lots of water, and avoids bad habits. Plus, his positive attitude and zest for life make everyone around him feel motivated too.

Whenever I’m feeling tired or demotivated, just being around Rahul is like catching his contagious energy. He encourages me to get up, move, and make the most of my time.

So all in all, Rahul is someone I truly admire for his energy and positivity. He’s proof that being active isn’t just good for your body, but also lifts everyone’s spirits around you.

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💬 Vocabulary:

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Endless enthusiasm	Constant excitement and interest
Stamina	Physical and mental endurance
Full of life	Very lively and energetic
Health-conscious	Careful about diet and fitness
Positive attitude	Optimistic and cheerful mindset
Contagious energy	Energy that spreads to others
Zest for life	A strong enjoyment of living
Motivated	Inspired to act
Balanced diet	Eating healthy and in moderation
Lifts everyone’s spirits	Makes others feel better

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🧠 Idioms & Natural Phrases:

Idiom/Phrase	Meaning
Energizer bunny	Someone who never seems to get tired
Keeps going like a machine	Very hardworking and tireless
Lights up the room	Brings energy and positivity wherever they go
On the go	Always busy and active
Runs circles around others	Outperforms everyone because of energy
A bundle of energy	Very lively person
Never sits still	Always moving or doing something
Infectious enthusiasm	Excitement that spreads to others

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🔗 Connectors:

Connector	Use
Honestly speaking…	To open naturally
What really sets him apart is…	To highlight qualities
I think he’s like this because…	To explain
Whenever I’m feeling…	To show personal connection
So all in all…	To conclude with admiration

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🧩 Customizable Template:

Honestly speaking, one of the most energetic people I know is [name]. We’ve known each other since [when/how], and he/she has always stood out for their energy.

What sets them apart is how they [stay active/do many things] and still remain full of life. I believe they’re like this because [reason: habits/attitude/personality].

Being around them always makes me feel [motivated/cheerful], and I admire them for that.

So all in all, [name] is someone whose energy inspires me and everyone else around.

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Some countries achieve international sports success by building specialised facilities to train top athletes, instead of providing sports facilities that everyone can use. Do you think this is a positive or negative development? | Real exam ielts writing task 2 |

Task Question:

Some countries achieve international sports success by building specialised facilities to train top athletes, instead of providing sports facilities that everyone can use. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?

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🧠 Ideas to Use

✅ Why it is positive:

• Helps nations perform better in global competitions (like Olympics).

• Dedicated facilities ensure athletes get world-class training.

• Brings national pride and inspires the next generation.

❌ Why it is negative:

• Neglects grassroots participation in sports.

• Widening gap between elite athletes and ordinary citizens.

• Public money spent on facilities only a few can access.

🎯 My opinion:

• While elite training is important, prioritising it over community facilities is a negative development as it discourages widespread participation and undermines public health.

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Sample Answer:

In some countries, governments focus on building specialised facilities for elite athletes to achieve international sporting success, rather than investing in sports infrastructure for the general public. While this approach may yield short-term gains in global competitions, I believe it is a negative development in the long run as it neglects the wider benefits of sports for society.

On the one hand, specialised facilities play a crucial role in helping athletes compete at the highest level. Elite sports require world-class training centres, advanced equipment, and expert coaching, which cannot always be provided in community gyms or playgrounds. Countries that invest in such infrastructure often see impressive results in international events such as the Olympics, which boosts national pride and inspires young people to pursue sports professionally. For instance, nations like China and the United States have developed state-of-the-art facilities for their athletes, helping them dominate in global competitions.

On the other hand, prioritising elite sports over public access has significant drawbacks. Firstly, it limits ordinary citizens’ opportunities to engage in physical activity, which is essential for promoting public health and well-being. If governments fail to provide accessible sports facilities in local communities, it may discourage people from adopting active lifestyles, leading to long-term health issues like obesity and heart disease. Secondly, it creates inequality, as only a small number of athletes benefit from such investments, while the majority of taxpayers cannot access or use these expensive facilities.

In my opinion, while elite training centres are necessary for achieving international success, ignoring grassroots sports is a short-sighted policy. Governments should strike a balance by investing in both professional and public facilities to ensure that everyone has the opportunity to enjoy the benefits of physical activity, while still nurturing talent for competitive sports.

In conclusion, building specialised facilities for top athletes can enhance a country’s global sports performance, but neglecting community-level sports infrastructure is detrimental to public health and social equity. Therefore, I consider this trend to be a negative development overall.

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📚 Vocabulary Used in the Essay:

• specialised facilities

• elite athletes

• world-class training

• national pride

• grassroots sports

• state-of-the-art

• accessible sports facilities

• physical activity

• public health and well-being

• social equity

• nurturing talent

• competitive sports

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📝 Additional Vocabulary for Similar Topics:

• recreational sports

• professional versus amateur sports

• community engagement

• sports infrastructure

• healthy lifestyle

• athletic excellence

• sports funding priorities

• inclusive participation

• public versus private investment

• sports culture

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