When to use hyphens (-)
Four-fifths, two-thirds, three-quarters etc.
→PrefixesCo- e.g. co-education, co-pilot
E- e.g. e-mail, e-commerce
Ex – e.g. ex-husband, ex-wife, ex-president
Half- e.g. half-price, half-hour, half-term
Mid- e.g. mid-week, mid-term
Non- e.g. non-profit, non-smoking
Pre- e.g. pre-school
Post- e.g. post-war, post-publication
→Compound nounsbreak-dancing, back-up, bee-keeping, all-rounder, free-for-all, daughter-in-law, chit-chat, double-decker etc.
→Compound adjectives
absent-minded, duty-free, back-breaking, day-to-day, long-distance, mass-market, hot-tempered, off-line etc.
→Compound verbsto lip-sync, to baby-sit, to house-hunt
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- Eleven lessons on two CDs
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Focus On Vocabulary Mastering The Academic Word List
Level: Gymnasium students planning a course of English-language higher education
- 24 words in each chapter are featured first in an authentic academic text, then in exercises to reinforce meaning, usage and collocations.
- Seven units focus on areas, such as social change, consumer behavior, natural resources, and music.
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- Collocation exercises train how academic words are used in real contexts.
- Strategy Practice chapters offer tips for dictionary usage and methods for expanding word knowledge.
- Expansion sections provide additional reading, discussion, and writing activities.
Expressteach.com - How to Say Email Addresses
Adjectives without nouns
→The + adjective (used for well-known groups of people)
Social condition: the unemployed, the jobless, the homeless, the young, the old, the rich, the poor
Physical condition: the disabled, the deaf, the blind, the injured
e.g. There should be more facilities for the disabled. The unemployed should be given jobs.
→Nationality
the English, the Welsh, the Irish, the Scots, the British, the Spanish, the Dutch, the French, the Poles, the Turks, the Swedes, the Finns, the Danes, the Swiss, the Portuguese, the Congolese, the Chinese, the Thais, the Israelis, the Iraqis, the Greeks, the Russians, the Palestinians, the Norwegians, the Italians, the Americans, the Belgians, the Brazilians, the Kenyans, the Europeans, the Moroccans etc.
e.g. The Swiss are well known for making delicious chocolates.
→When the noun has been mentioned before
e.g. Do you want some tea? Jasmine or Green.
→Superlatives
the tallest, the shortest, the highest, the smallest, the biggest, the smartest, the cheapest, the best, the worst, the greatest, the fastest, the slowest, the friendliest, the most significant, the most important, the most expensive
e.g. Which car are you buying? I think I’ll go for the cheapest. I wouldn’t buy the most expensive.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 1)
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
Australia and France used 5 fuel types in 1980 and 2000 to generate electricity. The pie charts indicate how these sources were distributed in each time period.
Starting with Australia, in 1980, coal accounted for half the 100 units of electricity produced. Hydro power and natural gas has an equal proportion of 20 units whilst oil represented 10 units. In 2000 the production of electricity increased to 170 units. Almost ¾ of this was due to coal usage. 36 units were hydro power produced and a minimal amount (2 units) by natural gas and oil.
In 1980 the distribution of the 90 total production units in France is more evenly spread out. 20 units are produced by oil, an equal number (25 units) by coal and natural gas while smaller units of nuclear power (15) and hydro power (5) are used. In 2000, the main portion was represented by nuclear power (126 units). Natural gas and hydro power stood at 2 units. An equal share of 25 units can also be seen for coal and oil.
As a result, Australia mainly employed coal and hydro power to produce electricity and there is no mention of using nuclear power for both time periods. On the other hand nuclear power appears to be a popular fuel source in France which also employs the other sources to a greater or less extent.
Cambridge, Ielts 7 past papers, p.101.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 1)
80% of students under 26 study in order to pursue a career. This reason is not so important as students become older. Approximately 20% of students over the age of 49 view this as relevant. A reverse trend is seen in students who study for their personal interest. Only 10% of those under 26 do this. The percentage increases together with age and 70% of those over 49 study for interest. For the age group 40-49, those who study for a career and those out of interest are equal (40%).
Employers are willing to support those under 26 (60%), between 26 and 29 (50%) and those over 49 (42%). They are less willing to provide aid to those between 30 and 49 years of age. The percentage for these two groups ranges between 30-32%.
Cambridge, Ielts 5 past papers, p.52.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 1)
Initially, the S2 location in the city centre seems attractive as it is centred between Bransdon (16km to the west) and Cransdon (25km to the east). The former has a population of 15,000 while the latter has 29,000 which would increase shopping traffic to the town of Garlsdon which has an existing population of 65,000. However, on closer inspection we can see that the town centre is a no traffic zone and the railway shoots past it.
Before deciding which option to go for, the municipality should weigh its choices. If it builds in the town centre, shoppers will have difficulties with parking and transportation there as it is a no traffic zone. On the other hand, building on the outskirts may deter shoppers who don’t want to trek out that far.
Cambridge, Ielts 5 past papers, p.75.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 1)
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 1)
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
Cambridge, Ielts 7 past papers, p.53.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 1)
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
Turkey’s consumer expenditure on Food, Drinks and Tobacco was the greatest, accounting for 32.14%. This was closely followed by Ireland with 28.91%. The consumers in Sweden spent the least (5.77%) in this sector while Italian and Spanish consumers spent 16.36% and 18.80% respectively.
The percentage spent on Clothing and Footwear was considerably lower at less than 10% for all countries. Italy’s expenditure stood at 9% while Ireland, Turkey and Spain showed similar spending habits ranging between 6.43% and 6.63%. Once again Sweden had the lowest percentage in this sector.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
In the past it was common to hear of people working in the same company all their lives and being occupied in the same career. This demonstrated stability and loyalty which were qualities that were highly valued. Times have changed as have attitudes towards work and an individual’s needs.
Today employers are happy to hire staff that have had varied careers as this shows extensive experience and personal growth. The market has become flexible and it is now possible for people to have more than one job and to change their career choice. Opportunities such as flexi time, part-time work, unpaid leave etc now exist which make it possible for people to work and study at the same time.
It is no longer frowned upon for people to return to the classroom at any age. As resources are becoming scarce and competition fierce, workers need to keep up with any changes in their field. Therefore seminars, courses, further qualifications etc are always necessary.
Our society demands that we adapt to the working environment. This means we need more than one way to earn a living, in a world that has become expensive and difficult to live in. It is more of a necessity than a fashion to have several careers. Students obtain degrees young and are able to change their choice if they aren’t able to find work in their selected field. Learning is life-long and ensures a person keeps up with the times.
Cambridge, Ielts 1 past papers, p.92.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
There are several factors that determine what editors select to appear on television and in newspapers. Each media has its own guidelines on how news is transmitted. This may be influenced by the management of the media who may take a particular slant. Other factors may include sensational stories that sell, emotional stories that sway public opinion, topics that interest viewers/readers etc.
Most of the time, we are exposed to bad news like viruses, food poisoning, natural disasters, accidents etc. After a while this bad news has no impact on us. There is less good news and it gets lost in all the bad news. I think we get accustomed to bad news and that is what we expect when we turn on the TV, radio or read a newspaper.
Without a doubt, good news is better but bad news sells. I can’t remember the last time I heard any good news. If more good news was shown, I think people would have a positive outlook to life and feel there is something to look forward to. Who wouldn’t be excited finding out about tax cuts, economic growth, low levels of unemployment etc.
News is broadcast around the clock and decided upon by editors who are influenced by external factors like how to make a profit for the station or newspaper, how to attract more audiences than their competitors, political affiliations etc. Bad news dominates the media and makes us immune to it. Positive news is rare but more of it would be appreciated.
Cambridge, Ielts 1 past papers, p.73.
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Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
Should wealthy nations be required to share their wealth among poorer nations by providing such things as food and education? Or is it the responsibility of the governments of poorer nations to look after their citizens themselves?
Occasionally wealthy nations provide humanitarian aid to poorer nations such as food in cases of droughts or floods, and offer educational services like free books to improve the quality of life in Third World countries. These kinds of gestures demonstrate our compassion as humans and are provided voluntarily from one country to another.
An independent and strong country is a valuable commodity, able to stand on its own two feet and provide a good standard of living for its citizens. It shouldn’t depend on hand-outs from other countries. National disasters are unavoidable and under these circumstances, richer nations could provide some assistance. We must not forget that governments are elected with the expectation that they will pass laws to help the economy grow and the country prosper.
Richer nations are not obliged to bail out poorer ones. Their primary responsibility is towards the well-being of their own citizens. If they have surplus funds, excess expertise, volunteers etc then they may send supplies to poorer countries. The help provided by the government, organisations or individuals should be purely voluntary without any hidden motives.
The self-sufficiency of poorer nations is important to retain a positive, healthy image and to maintain their dignity. If they are able to overcome hardships on their own this will raise their self-esteem. This of course is an ideal scenario. In real life it is much harder for a country to recover from poverty and foreign aid is given throughout the year.
Cambridge, Ielts 1 past papers, p.52.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
Categories of music vary from jazz, rock, pop to house, opera and country. Each type stresses a particular musical instrument, rhythm, beat and unique sound. Music entertains us, makes us want to dance and sing, motivates us to exercise, takes us to a certain time period and alters our mood. Music has become part of our urban environment and can be heard everywhere; in shops, restaurants, bars, public transport, parks etc.
Whether someone listens to traditional or international music is a matter of personal preference and has to do with the trends in a country. Traditional music is important because it reflects the local culture and traditional sounds of a country. In Zimbabwe, for example, drums made of animal skins are popular. Local music also promotes local singers and musicians. Today, the music industry has become globalized and tunes, especially from the USA and the UK are played worldwide.
In a world of multi-culturalism it has become increasingly difficult to distinguish between traditional and international music as each type draws factors from each other. International music may include lyrics from another language such as Hindi or Arabic or use an instrument that is specific to a culture, for example, a Mongolian string instrument.
Music has many purposes. It relaxes us, passes on important messages, helps us learn foreign languages easier and supports a whole industry. Traditional music tends to be nostalgic and supported by elder members of society. International music plays in nightclubs and is favoured by younger crowds, specifically hip hop, rap, pop etc. I don’t think a comparison can be made based on importance. Music is music, crosses boundaries and depends on a person’s tastes.
Cambridge, Ielts 1 past papers, p.32.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Juvenile delinquency, I believe, starts with adverse conditions at home, when parents aren’t at home to give the child the attention it requires. Growing up, children need to know there is someone there for them emotionally. They may need encouragement and help with homework. In some cultures this role is undertaken by the grandparents who look after their grandchildren once they retire. Under these circumstances, children are well-fed, entertained and taken care of by someone in their immediate family.
Looking at families where both parents are forced to work long hours, we can notice behavioural problems. Care givers are paid to do a job and that is the extent of their responsibility. In such situations the child feels resentment as their parents aren’t dedicating enough time to them. These children are likely to act out for example through vandalism or shop lifting in order to get attention.
In our times of social equality, I would say that the absence from home by one of the parents could account for juvenile delinquency. Other family members such as aunts or grandparents might be able to fill the void. However, I believe that in an attempt to gain recognition from parents, children engage in anti-social behaviour.
Cambridge, Ielts 2 past papers.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Although some criminals may fear being punished by being put to death for their actions, I believe there is no direct relationship between capital punishment and committing less crime. Firstly, many acts of violence go unpunished. These may range from date rape to domestic violence. The legal system is made up of a complex web of players including the media and public opinion. If we look at the number of convicts that have undergone capital punishment and the level of violent crimes in society, I think the figures will not correspond to each other.
Secondly, the roots behind an increase in the acts of violence need to be addressed. What is causing this behaviour and why isn’t capital punishment as a method of control effective? Furthermore, crime levels in countries that have the death penalty such as Saudi Arabia and other that don’t, for example the United Kingdom should be compared.
To conclude, I believe we all feel safer knowing a dangerous member of society is no longer among us and can’t cause potentially more harm. Criminals need to feel that their violent crimes will be punishable by death, making them think twice about committing a deadly offense. Despite this, I am sceptical as to whether a reduction in crime level is associated with tough capital punishment laws.
Cambridge, Ielts 2 past papers.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
It often takes years of neglect or bad health habits before problems appear. People avoid going for check-ups, in most cases, until they notice some obvious symptoms or experience pain. Health education and preventative measures may be regarded as long-term solutions to a nation’s sufferings. A simple government campaign which promotes healthy lifestyles could go a long way in preventing future illnesses. Health education could become part of the school curriculum as well. Knowing what causes terminal illnesses like heart disease in the first place, will help individuals be more responsible for their health instead of overburdening the existing health system.
Naturally, tackling immediate health problems in the form of treatment is important and a substantial amount of a country’s budget is allocated to this sector. Hospitals in many countries are overcrowded, the staff work long hours and patients don’t receive the medical attention they deserve. By allocating the necessary funds to preventative measures, this gloomy image of current hospitals can be eliminated as can a patient’s suffering.
I think it is a good idea for the government to take an interest in promoting healthy living so that in the long-run, fewer people will be visiting hospitals, the nation will feel better and budgets can be reduced or allocated elsewhere.
Cambridge, Ielts 2 past papers.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Scandinavian countries, in particular, are taking the lead in terms of fatherhood rights. Men are entitled to paternity leave when their wife gives birth and there are increasing numbers of men who stay home and look after children on a full-time basis. In my opinion this is a positive step towards shared responsibility. I think it is important for both parents to take part in their child’s upbringing as children need role models from both genders in order to become balanced adults. Whereas in the past women were solely assigned to all duties relating to child care, fathers of today now realise that they have a lot to offer a child in terms of time, support, encouragement etc.
On the whole I think that fatherhood should be stressed as much as motherhood. It takes two people to produce a baby and men have a right to feature in a child’s life. Fathers have many positive contributions to make towards a family and shouldn’t rely on laws or changes in society’s outlook to perform their role. Having a baby and bringing it up are two different functions. Nature makes it possible for only a woman to bear a child but the task of upbringing should rest on both parents.
Cambridge, Ielts 2 past papers.
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
In my opinion, the state of many poor countries can be attributed to the previous actions of rich European nations. Taking Africa as an example, countries on this continent were colonised by the British, French, Portuguese, Dutch and Germans. These colonial powers were responsible for taking Africa’s natural mineral resources. It is their duty and obligation to now assist these countries.
Richer nations have discovered vaccines and cures for illnesses and can provide solutions in the area of health. Richer nations can benefit from trading with poorer nations who have the necessary raw materials (e.g. diamonds, gold, copper, etc) and cheap labour. Finally, education is the sector that is worst hit in the Third World with millions out of school, particularly girls.
The type of aid that is sent is important. Richer nations should teach poorer ones to become independent so they will be self-sufficient and can have a sustainable economy in the long-run. Providing aid as a hand-out is temporary and provides short-term solutions. Furthermore, this aid might be used to control a country further.
To sum up, richer countries measure the development of poorer nations according to their own standards. Third World countries need to be able to stand on their own two feet in all aspects. If they accept help from richer nations they should make sure there are no hidden agendas and development programmes have a long-term aim.
Cambridge, Ielts 3 past papers, p.98
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
What are your opinions on this?
In many countries there are laws stating the minimum working age, for example minors under 16 are forbidden to work while in other parts of the world such as in Africa, children can be seen working in fields. Some Asian countries like China have been criticized for operating ‘sweat shops,’ that is, allowing young children to work in factories for long hours at a less than minimum wage.
In European countries, teenagers often have some sort of part-time job. Although they are not assigned to positions of great responsibility, they can learn many things on the job. This valuable experience teaches them how the adult world works, how a business functions, how to be responsible and accountable as well as the value of money. It builds their self-confidence and improves their communication skills.
Those living in the West would criticize those in developing countries for allowing children to work. Perhaps their definition of a child is someone under 12. As they live in different conditions where helping hands aren’t required on farms and in factories, they are critical of these practices. Maybe they recall the lessons of history and the Industrial Revolution when young children worked in coal mines or in factories earning a living.
I think that 16 year old teenagers should be encouraged to work on a part-time basis to cover their expensive and take responsibility for their lives without burdening their parents while simultaneously receiving an education. On the other hand, we can’t judge the extreme poverty, cultural practices and necessity for children to work in less developed countries of the world, where not working equates starvation.
Cambridge, Ielts 3 past papers, p.74
Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Traditional skills usually involve making products like chairs, shoes and quilts etc by hand. Even though these handmade products are more expensive, they provide work for craftsmen. These skills are passed down through generations and are useful for keeping families together. Traditional products take longer to make but are crafted with care. Now, products are machine-made and workers have no association with what they produce in assembly lines. Regarding ways of life, technology has made life easier and convenient whereas in the past people lived simpler, healthier lifestyles without modern comforts.
Traditional skills and ways of life are worth keeping. They tie us to a genuine, healthier, simpler past. They say something about our wealthy cultural heritage. It is however difficult to maintain this as technology pushes society forward, erasing any nostalgic notions we might have. So even if we try to promote the past, it will inevitably die out.
Cambridge, Ielts 3 past papers, p.52
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Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
During the World Cup 2010 held in South Africa, before the start of each football match, the captain of each team read out a speech in the stadium in front of thousands of supporters. This short talk highlighted the fact that the games were against racism and were meant to unite nations.
At sporting events, each country shows its athletes off, and for a brief moment countries forget their tensions. On the field teams are on an equal footing and competition is regulated by policies, referees, judges etc. Flags are waved or wrapped around an athlete’s body and national anthems sung for winners. These are all ways of releasing patriotic emotions in a safe way.
In my opinion the desire for South Africa to join the world athletic scene pressured politicians to bring an end to apartheid. International tensions and sanctions were broken and South Africa now proudly displays its athletes on the global circuit. In sports, politics doesn’t count but people are nevertheless able to identify, support and cheer for their country.
There are some concerns for safety during international sports events. On rare occasions there are a small percentage of hooligans who take out their patriotic sentiments in a violent way, attacking members of their enemy country and destroying property.
On the whole, I believe sporting events are vital for putting aside tensions between countries and expressing ones love for a country and admiration for sporting heroes without causing any unnecessary harm. The harmony brought by sports can be seen in the peaceful passing of the Olympic, European, Pan African etc sports events.
Cambridge, Ielts 3 past papers, p.28
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