IELTS

Writing Task 2: Essay 11

2012-10-10T00:48:00.001-07:00

Nowadays, travelling by air is much cheaper than before and brings freedom, but it also brings some environmental problems. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

In today’s world, people are in a position to enjoy cheaper air flights than in the past. Not surprisingly, there are concerns about how this trend impacts our environment, with some people claiming that pollution has dramatically worsen as a result of increasing air travel. However, those in favour of travelling by air argue that this phenomenon has provided individuals with more liberty to travel around the globe. Both sides will be discussed in this essay before a reasoned conclusion is drawn.

On the one hand, the advent of cheap air fare makes it possible for people the world over to travel regularly, regardless of the purpose of the trip. Earlier, only the affluent could afford it, but now it is within the pocket of an ordinary man. In fact, a range of discounted tickets are fairly economical and flying abroad is no longer a dream for many.

In addition to this, the reduction in air travel fares can be seen as a positive event as it promotes intercultural understanding and global harmony, while boosting tourism. For instance, many Middle Eastern states have opened their doors and embraced tourism over the last twenty years and this has helped shed prejudiced views internationally that all Middle Eastern countries are dangerous. Thus, it is comprehensible why escalation in air travel industry is supported by many people.

On the other hand, however, some others contest the above and argue that travelling by air causes severe air pollution, thus affecting the environment negatively. Aeroplanes consume a vast amount of fuel as well as the gas emission generated by an airplane is colossal. If introduction of low-cost air tickets is not controlled, the environmental impacts would only get worse in the long run. Hence, when seen in this light, it is explicable why many people gravitate towards the idea that surge in air travel would have detrimental effect on the atmosphere.

Following this discussion, it is felt that although both point of views have indispensable virtues, proliferation of air travel brings more positive ramifications and enables the individuals to explore the world to a greater extent. However, it is also expected that some measures will be adopted to reduce the pollution caused by aeroplanes.

General Vocabulary for IELTS

2012-10-08T14:36:00.000-07:00

To indicate more information

Besides - Making an additional point; anyway
Furthermore
In addition
Moreover
Likewise
Indeed – In truth
In fact
Also
As well
Foremost - Ranking above all others; Preceding all others in spatial position
First, Second, Third, Finally
Firstly, Secondly, Thirdly

To indicate an example

For example
For instance
In particular
Particularly - Specifically or especially distinguished from others
Specifically
To illustrate
To demonstrate

To indicate a cause or reason

Since
Because
Because of
Due to
For
For the reason that
As
Inasmuch as - Since
Whereby - As a result of which, By which, "the means whereby we achieved our goal"

To indicate a result or an effect

Accordingly - because of the reason given
Consequently
Hence
So
Therefore
Thus
Thusly - In the way indicated
Thence - From that fact or reason or as a result
Therefrom - From that circumstance or source
Thereof - Of or concerning this or that, From that circumstance or source
Corollary - A practical consequence that follows naturally, "blind jealousy is a frequent corollary of passionate love"

To conclude

For the aforementioned reasons
For the aforementioned reasons, there is no doubt that
To sum up the foregoing,
Given these facts
In conclusion
In closing
To conclude

To express an opinion

In all due fairness
With good judgment, (one/we may)

To describe or make

vivid
portray
depict
exhibit
illustrate
expose
present
paint a portrait
limn - Trace the shape of, make a portrait of
delineate
represent
demonstrate
constitute - Form or compose
embodied - (adj) Expressed by
embody - (v) Represent or express in tangible form
embodiment

To prove

manifest - Provide evidence for; stand as proof of
attest - Provide evidence for
testify - Provide evidence for
certify - Provide evidence for
endorse, indorse - Give support or one's approval to
shew - Establish the validity of something, as by an example, explanation or experiment
establish
instance - (v) Clarify by giving an example of
exemplify - (v) Clarify by giving an example of

To compare or contrast

Whereas
In comparison
In contrast
However
Although
On the other hand
Likewise
Similarly
But
Yet
Withal - Despite anything to the contrary (usually following a concession)
Withal - Together with this
Nevertheless - Despite anything to the contrary
Nonetheless - Despite anything to the contrary
Notwithstanding - Despite anything to the contrary
Even so - Despite anything to the contrary
All the same - Despite anything to the contrary

To indicate time

After
Before
Currently
During
Eventually
Finally
First, Second, etc.
Formerly
Immediately
Initially
Lastly
Later
Meanwhile
Next
Once
Previously
Simultaneously
Soon
Subsequently
Subsequent - Following in time and order
Hitherto, Heretofore - Used in negative statement to describe a situation that has existed up to this point or up to the present time, “The sun hasn’t rose hitherto.”
In due time
Henceforth

To indicate certainty

Truly
Sincerely
Genuinely
Surely
Rightfully
Absolutely
Indubitably
Certainly
Without doubt
Needless to say

To indicate doubt

Most likely
More likely
Possibly
Probably
Dubitable - Open to doubt or suspicion
Dubious - Distressed with uncertainty or doubt

To summarize

Overall
To summarize
In summary
To sum up
Paraphrased
Briefly
In brief
Summing up
To put it briefly
précis - A sketchy summary, Make a summary (of)
synopsis - A sketchy summary
apercu - A short synopsis

To provide a condition

provision, proviso - A stipulated condition
stipulate - Specify as a condition or requirement in a contract
given
if
whether
whenever
when
while

To express positive words

magnificent
grandeur - The quality of being magnificent or splendid or grand, the quality of being exalted in character or ideals or conduct
magnanimous - The quality of being exalted in character or ideals or conduct
fantastic
fantastical
phenomenal
wonderful
extraordinary
marvelous
superb
good
fine
great
avid - Emotionally desirable
avid ambition to succeed
excellent
spectacular
prodigious
grand
brilliant
glorious - Bringing great happiness and thankfulness
illustrious - Widely known and esteemed
notable - Worthy of notice
respected
impressive
splendid
splendiferous - Having great beauty and splendor
resplendent - Having great beauty and splendor, Richly and brilliantly colorful
flamboyant - Elaborately or excessively ornamented, Richly and brilliantly colorful
redoubtable - Having or worthy of pride
formidable - Extremely impressive in strength or excellence
prowess
superior
terrific
tremendous
wondrous - Extraordinarily good
wonderful
sublime - Inspiring awe, Lifted up or set high
flair - natural talent
knack - A special way of doing something
outshine - Attract more attention and praise than others
paramount - Having superior power and influence
predominant
preponderating
prevailing

To show intelligence

profound
shrewd – hardheaded (practical experience and observation) intelligence
astute
acumen - Shrewdness shown by keen insight
insightful
savvy - The cognitive condition of someone who understands
cognition - The psychological result of perception, learning and reasoning
genius
smart
sharp
keen
mastermind
Einstein - Someone who has exceptional intellectual ability and originality
work of art
fine art
maven - Someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
mavin - Someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
adept - Someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
whiz - Someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field
wizard - Someone who is dazzlingly skilled in any field

To intensify

incredibly
exceedingly
toppingly - extremely well
extremely
extraordinarily
truly
really
very
utterly - Completely and without qualification; used informally as intensifiers, With sublimity; in a sublime manner
absolutely
perfectly
sublimely
dramatically
sheer - (adj.) Complete and without restriction or qualification; sometimes used informally as an intensifier; (adv.) Directly "he fell sheer into the water"

Said

enounced, enunciated - Speak, pronounce, or utter in a certain way
pronounced - Speak, pronounce, or utter in a certain way
articulated - Express or state clearly
vocalized - Express or state clearly
posited - Put firmly
stated
expressed
reported
alleged - Declared but not proved
averred - Report or maintain, To declare or affirm in a grave manner and formally as true
affirmed, asserted
wrote
composed
indited - Produce a literary work
penned - Produce a literary work
spelt - Indicate or signify
voiced, sounded - Give voice to
demean - Reduce in worth or character, usually verbally

Noted (said)

remarked
denoted - Be a sign or indication of, "Her smile denoted that she agreed"
observed
commented
mentioned
referred
announced
noticed

Precisely

explicitly
accurately
expressly
exactly
incisively

Numerous

innumerable
many
various
several
diverse
umpteen
umteen
myriad (noun and adj.)

Praise

extol - (v) Praise, glorify, or honor
exalt
glorify
laud
proclaim
revere
idolize
worship
venerate

Call Forth

evoke - Call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)
arouse - Call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)
elicit - Call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)
enkindle - Call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)
provoke - Call forth (emotions, feelings, and responses)
inflame - Arouse or excite feelings and passions
awake - Stop sleeping
conjure - Evoke or call forth, with or as if by magic
invoke - Evoke or call forth, with or as if by magic
summon - Gather or bring together
instill - deposit gradually

Writing Task 2: Essay 10

2012-10-05T21:53:00.000-07:00

Celebrities such as actors, athletes, and musicians earn large salaries compared to other professionals. Some people consider this unfair, while others think that celebrities deserve to be paid a lot for the work they do.

Discuss both points of view and give your opinion on the subject.

Famous film stars, popular singers and sports people are often paid a lot more than the people in other professions. While this may not seem fair and justifiable to many, for some others it is entirely reasonable for the celebrities to earn prodigious paychecks Both the sides of this argument will be discussed before a cogent conclusion is drawn.

On the one hand, it is believed by many that the renowned celebrities do not deserve the colossal wages awarded to them for their job. This is because celebrities as compared to other important professionals make trivial contribution towards the society, if any. For instance, professionals like doctors, lawyers, and teachers serve the society in pivotal fields by making sure that the healthcare, legal system and the education of the nation runs smoothly. Thus, if seen in this light, it is understandable why this view has garnered support.

On the other hand, however, many others consider the large salaries of famous stars are fair and they are completely worthy of what they earn. Most of the film stars, musicians and athletes have worked hard for achieving grand success in their own respective fields, and gain public fame. This stardom is not usually limited to earning huge money, as many superstars are involved in charity works like giving donations, for example. In this way, the wealth earned during their career is used for the betterment of the less-advantaged members of the society. Hence, it is clear why many people gravitate towards this point of view.

In conclusion, although both sides have indisputable virtues, I personally think that the celebrities deserve the money they earn for the hard work they put in their job. However, it is also expected that the salaries paid to other important professionals will be improved.

Writing Task 2: Essay 9

2012-10-05T16:30:00.000-07:00

Some people think that schools should select pupils according to their academic abilities, while others believe that it is better to have pupils with different abilities study together. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Children are put in a particular grade according to age in our education system. It is obvious that all children are not of the same intelligence level and sometimes it becomes difficult for educators to teach them in the same class. Therefore, some people feel that there should be separate teaching for intelligent students and weak students.

If we look at the benefits, then yes, intelligent students can be taught at their pace and the sessions can be made more interesting for them and the same thing applies to the weak students. Thus, both the categories of students would enjoy learning. Moreover, different teaching tactics can be adopted in each group to give students maximum benefits. In a mixed group, many times weak students cannot cope up with the pace of studies and so come under high pressure and get de-motivated. When they are separated, teachers can handle them tactfully and bring them back the lost confidence.

Furthermore, it has been seen that sometimes the more intelligent students show disruptive behaviour. They can grasp things very soon and then disturb the others. It can become very difficult for the teacher to maintain discipline in the class.

On the other hand, weak students would automatically develop an inferiority complex if they are made to realise that they are weak in studies by separating them. In addition to that, the other group might not treat them well, which can have a direct effect on their psyche. On the contrary, when the students study in a mixed group, a sense of competition develops and weak students are motivated to study. Even intelligent students can help weak students in studies and the bond can be strengthened. This way, even weak students would not feel belittled.

In my opinion, children should not be separated as only academic abilities are not enough to judge the intelligence of the students. I would rather suggest what I had in my school, and that is extra coaching to weak students. It serves the purpose best as teachers save their time and energy and yet maintain the effectiveness.

Health

2012-10-01T03:28:00.005-07:00

Health problems:

• addiction (addictions)

NOUN - Addiction is the condition of taking harmful drugs and being unable to stop taking them.

■ long-term addiction to nicotine

• allergy (allergies)

NOUN - If you have a particular allergy, you become ill or get a rash when you eat, smell, or touch something that does not normally make people ill.

■ Food allergies can result in an enormous variety of different symptoms.

• cancer (cancers)

NOUN - Cancer is a serious disease in which cells in a person’s body increase rapidly in an uncontrolled way, producing abnormal growths.

■ a cancer research charity

• dehydration

UNCOUNTABLE NOUN - You are suffering from dehydration if you lose too much water from your body.

■ Cholera causes severe dehydration.

• disease (diseases)

NOUN - A disease is an illness that affects people, animals or plants, for example one which is caused by bacteria or infection.

■ the rapid spread of disease in the area

• infection (infections)

NOUN - An infection is a disease caused by germs or bacteria.

■ Ear infections are common in pre-school children.

• obesity

UNCOUNTABLE NOUN - Someone suffering from obesity is extremely fat.

■ The excessive consumption of sugar leads to obesity

• stroke (strokes)

NOUN - If someone has a stroke, a blood vessel in their brain bursts or becomes blocked, which may k ill them or make them unable to move one side of their body.

■ He had a minor stroke in 1987, which left him partly paralyzed.

Verbs associated with treatment:

• administer (administers, administering, administered)

VERB - If a doctor or nurse administers a drug, they give it to a patient.

■ Paramedics are trained to administer certain drugs.

• admit (admits, admitting, admitted)

VERB - If someone is admitted to hospital they are taken into hospital for treatment and kept there until they are well enough to go home.

■ She was admitted to hospital with a soaring temperature.

• diagnose (diagnoses, diagnosing, diagnosed)

VERB - If someone or something is diagnosed as having a particular illness or problem, their illness or problem is identified.

■ Almost a million people are diagnosed with colon cancer each year.

• discharge (discharges, discharging, discharged)

VERB - When someone is discharged from hospital, they are officially allowed to leave, or told they must leave.

■ He has a broken nose but may be discharged today.

• examine (examines, examining, examined)

VERB - If a doctor examines you, he or she looks at your body, feels it, or does simple tests in order to check how healthy you are.

■ Another doctor examined her and could still find nothing wrong.

• screen (screens, screening, screened)

VERB - To screen for a disease means to examine people to make sure that they do not have it.

■ Men over 50 are routinely screened for prostate abnormalities.

• vaccinate (vaccinates, vaccinating, vaccinated)

VERB - A vaccine is a harmless form of the germs that cause a particular disease. If a person or animal is vaccinated, they are given a vaccine, usually by injection, to prevent them getting that disease.

■ Dogs must be vaccinated against distemper.

People And Relationships

2012-09-30T20:53:00.003-07:00

People in relationship:

• client (clients)

NOUN - A client of a professional person or organization is a person that receives a service from them in return for payment.

■ a solicitor and his client

■ The company requires clients to pay substantial fees in advance.

• colleague (colleagues)

NOUN - Your colleagues are the people you work with, especially in a professional job.

■ Female academics are still paid less than their male colleagues.

■ In the corporate world, the best sources of business are your former colleagues.

• employer (employers)

NOUN - Your employer is the person or organization that you work for.

■ employers who hire illegal workers

■ The telephone company is the country's largest employer.

• parent (parents)

NOUN - Your parents are your mother and father.

■ Children need their parents.

■ When you become a parent the things you once cared about seem to have less value.

• sibling (siblings)

NOUN - Your siblings are your brothers and sisters. [FORMAL]

■ Some studies have found that children are more friendly to younger siblings of the same sex.

■ Sibling rivalry often causes parents anxieties.

• spouse (spouses)

NOUN - Someone’s spouse is the person they are married to.

■ Husbands and wives do not have to pay any inheritance tax when their spouse dies.

Describing people:

• autonomous

ADJECTIVE - An autonomous person makes their own decisions rather than being influenced by someone else

■ They proudly declared themselves part of a new autonomous province.

■ the liberal idea of the autonomous individual

• consistent

ADJECTIVE - Someone who is consistent always behaves in the same way, has the same attitudes towards people or things, or achieves the same level of success in something.

■ Becker has never been the most consistent of players anyway.

■ his consistent support of free trade

■ a consistent character with a major thematic function

• conventional

ADJECTIVE - Someone who is conventional has behaviour and opinions that are ordinary and normal.

■ a respectable married woman with conventional opinions

■ this close, fairly conventional English family

• co-operative also cooperative

ADJECTIVE - If you say that someone is co-operative, you mean that they do what you ask them without complaining or arguing.

■ The president said the visit would develop friendly and co-operative relations between the two countries.

■ a contented and co-operative workforce

• efficient

ADJECTIVE - If something or someone is efficient, they are able to do tasks successfully, without wasting time or energy.

■ With today’s more efficient contraception women can plan their families and careers.

■ Technological advances allow more efficient use of labour.

■ an efficient way of testing thousands of compounds

• flexible

ADJECTIVE - Something or someone that is flexible is able to change easily and adapt to different conditions and circumstances.

■ more flexible arrangements to allow access to services after normal working hours

■ We encourage flexible working.

• idealistic

ADJECTIVE - If you describe someone as idealistic, you mean that they have ideals, and base their behaviour on these ideals, even if this may be impractical.

■ Idealistic young people died for the cause.

■ an over-simplistic and idealistic vision of family dynamics

• tolerant

ADJECTIVE - If you describe someone as tolerant, you approve of the fact that they allow other people to say and do as they like, even if they do not agree with or like it.

■ [+of] They need to be tolerant of different points of view.

■ Other changes include more tolerant attitudes to unmarried couples having children.

• vulnerable

ADJECTIVE - Someone who is vulnerable is weak and without protection, with the result that they are easily hurt physically or emotionally.

■ Old people are particularly vulnerable members of our society.

Speaking Part 2: 'A Teenager'

2012-09-26T18:02:00.001-07:00

A Teenager You Know

Describe a teenager who you know.

You should say:

how old they are (= how old he or she is)

how and where you met him or her

what you and this person do together

what kind of person he or she is (his or her personality)

and explain how you feel about him or her.

and explain whether you like or dislike this person and why

I have a teenager friend in my home-town, in India. His name is Adarsh. Actually he is the son of my next door neighbour and I have known him since he was born. He is 14 years of age but I must say that he is much taller than his age children !

As most of the teenagers, he does many things to fit in the modern stereotype, even if he dislikes it. One example of this is listening to mainstream music. He listens to a lot of American music, which despite not being his favourite; he plays so loudly that I can hear it perfectly in my apartment. He is very energetic and intelligent boy but also little bit lazy and short-tempered.

But I love one thing about him and that is his dedication to whatever he does. He is kind of perfectionist from such a young age. He always ranks 1^st or 2^nd in his academic exams at school and is also very good at extra activities like dancing and sports. I guess he is an all-rounder.

He is the captain of his school cricket team and now also plays for the under 16 cricket team representing my hometown. In India most boys love playing cricket but for Adarsh cricket is his passion, in fact his dream is to become a professional cricketer in future and play for the Indian cricket team.

When I go to India, we spend a lot of time in playing Cricket and also PlayStation. I personally love cricket, and playing video games is also my favourite pastime. So I think we both love same things and playing with him reminds me of my teenage life. He considers me as his elder sister and so whenever he has any problems he prefers to come to me. He often approaches me to solve his study problems, especially when he has to do some projects or assignments for school. I really think that he will excel in his life in whatever he does. I completely trust his abilities.

I love him very much and see him as my younger brother. Although we have almost 10 years of age difference, we share a special friendship bond between us. We always have lot of fun together and sometimes have silly fights. At last I can say that I really miss him, he is a great kid.

(NOTE: This answer can also be used in various other question topics like - 'Describe your Neighbour', 'A Person from your family' {you can say he is your brother}, 'A happy person you know' {Just add some more characteristics that make him a happy person})

Speaking Part 2 - New Topics - September Onwards

2012-09-25T18:13:00.001-07:00

Every four months some new speaking Part 2 topics are added to the examination. The following topics were asked worldwide during September and hence there is a possibility that these are the new topics from September onwards. Preparation of these cue card topics will be very helpful for the upcoming IELTS speaking exam. All the best.

1) A Product You Were Dissatisfied With

Describe something that you bought that you were dissatisfied with.

You should say:

what the item was

when and where you bought it

why you bought it

and explain why you were not happy with this product.

explain what you did with the product after you found that it was unsatisfactory.

2) A Home You Like

Describe a beautiful house or flat that you have visited.

You should say:

when you visited this home

where it was (or is)

what it looked like

and explain why you liked it.

3) A Film About a Real Person or Event

Describe a film about a real person or event that you have watched.

You should say:

when (and where) you saw this film

what person or event the film was about

what happened in the film

and explain how you felt about (or, explain your opinion of) this film.

4) A Plan

Describe a plan you have for the future (but not related to work or study).

You should say:
        what it is
        why you have this plan
        what the first step in your plan is
        what you will need to do in order to make the plan work
and explain how you think you will feel after you achieve this.

5) A Garden

Describe a garden you visited and liked.

You should say:
        where it was
        what you saw in this garden
        what you did there
and explain why you liked it

6) A Lesson, Class or Training Session

Describe a class, seminar or training session that you enjoyed.

You should say:

what the session was about

who the teacher or trainer was

what the teacher (and the students) did

what you learned in this class or training session

and explain why you enjoyed it

7) A Teenager You Know

Describe a teenager who you know.

You should say:

how old they are (= how old he or she is)

how and where you met him or her

what you and this person do together

what kind of person he or she is (his or her personality)

and explain how you feel about him or her.

and explain whether you like or dislike this person and why

8) A Wrong Decision

Describe someone you know who made a wrong decision.

You should say:
        who the person was
        what the situation was
       what decision they made
and explain why you think it was the wrong decision.

9) A Traditional Event

Describe an important traditional event (in your culture/country).

You should say:

when this event is held

who attends this event (or, who is involved in this event)

what people do during this event

and explain why this event is important.

10) A Person You Enjoy Talking To

Describe a person you enjoy talking with.

You should say:

how often you speak with this person (or, how long you usually spend talking to each other)

when you usually talk with him/her

what topics you usually speak about

and explain why you enjoy speaking to them (= him or her).

11) A Project

Describe a project or some work that you did with others.

You should say:

what the project or work was.

when you did this

who was with you

how easy or difficult it was

and explain why you did this with other people.

and explain why how you felt about doing this with other people.

11) A Way to Relax

Describe a way to relax that you find effective.

You should say:

what you do (or, how you relax)

(when you usually do this )

where you usually do it

who is usually with you at this place

and explain why this is relaxing for you.

12) A Meal You Like to Eat

Describe a meal (or dish) that you like to eat.

You should say:

what it is

where you usually eat it

what the meal is made of (= what is in the meal or dish)

and explain why you like it.

13) Something You Learned from a Family Member

Describe something useful you learned from a member of your family.

You should say:
        what it was
        who you learned it from
        how you learned it
and explain why you think it is useful.

14) A Meaningful Song

Describe a song that has (special) meaning for you.

You should say:
        what song it is
        when you first heard it
        what the song is about
and explain why this song has special meaning for you.

15) An Unusual Job

Describe an unusual job you would (like to) do, if you had the opportunity.

You should say:
        what job it would be
        what you would do in that job
        why this job is unusual

and explain why you would like to do that job.

16) An Old Photograph

Describe an old photograph that you like.

You should say:

who took the photo

when it was taken

where it was taken

and explain why you like it.

17) A Good Neighbour

Describe a good neighbour of yours.

You should say:

how long you have known this neighbour

what sort of person they are

how often you see them

and explain why you consider this person to be a good neighbour.

General Writing Task 1: Letter 7

2012-09-19T17:38:00.000-07:00

You have arranged a plan for travel and accommodation for your friends. Write a letter to them and
- remind them about the plans,
- give them the details of accommodation,
- suggest what things they should bring to the trip.

Dear Leena and Jalpa,

Hope this letter finds you in radiant health and the best of spirits. I am writing this letter to remind you about our plan of visiting Goa next month.

When we met at the class reunion last month, we talked about visiting Goa in March. I have made all the arrangements. I have booked our train tickets from Delhi. I have also booked hotel Delmon in Panaji for the entire period. It is a very nice hotel and is very near the Calangute beach.

We shall be visiting the various beaches in Goa and also the churches. There is also a two hours cruise which is very very good as I have heard from my uncle who has been there many times. We shall also be doing various water activities on the beaches. The climate in Goa is very pleasant in the month of March, so you need to bring cool cotton clothes and of course your swimsuits with you.

Looking forward to seeing you at Delhi railway station on the 12th of March.

Yours lovingly,
Vidhi.

(Courtesy: Kiran Makkar)

General Writing task 1: Letter 6

2012-09-19T17:32:00.002-07:00

You have planned to study in Australia. You have sent a letter to a college, but you have not received a reply from the college. Write a letter to the college principal. In your letter,
- you should give details of the course that you wished to do,
- say why do you choose to study at the college,
- say why you need the reply soon.

Dear Sir/Madam,

I am writing this letter to enquire about the „Diploma in International Cookery‟ that your college is offering. I wrote earlier also but did not get any reply.

I wish to do the „Diploma in International Cookery‟ in your college. This is a very interesting course and after doing the course I would have a very bright future in this field. Chefs are earning telephone figure salaries nowadays. I would like to know when the next intake of the course is, so that I can apply in time and I would also like to know the fee structure. I would also like to know if there are any pre-requisites for doing this course.

I have chosen your college to study because elsewhere, this course is of two years duration but in your college it is of 15 months duration. Moreover, I have heard that you have got very good faculty and infrastructure. Campus placement rate of your college is also the best. So, for all the above reasons, your college is my first choice for doing this course.

It would be very kind of you if you could reply soon so that I can make alternative arrangement for my future study if I cannot get admission in your college.

Hoping for a prompt reply from your side.

Yours faithfully,
Matt Camden.

(Courtesy: Kiran Makkar)

General Writing Task 1: Letter 5

2012-09-19T17:29:00.005-07:00

You are a football player, but you have to leave the team for a while, write a letter to your team-mate and say:
- why you have to leave,
- how much you love the football team,
- when you are coming back.

Dear Anil,

Hope this letter finds you in radiant health and the best of spirits. I am writing this letter to inform you that I shall not be able to play for our team for some time as my grandfather has suffered a stroke and so I am going home to look after him.

You know how much I love football and our team. Playing football is a passion for me and the best time of my life is when I am on the football ground. However, one has to set priorities in life and my family comes before anything else. My grandfather is the most important person in my life. He has always been my friend, philosopher and guide. He is the one who motivated me to play football. What I am today is because of him. Now he has suffered a stroke and his left side is paralysed. He needs good care and a lot of physiotherapy which I can provide better than anyone else.

I shall be back as soon as my grandfather is fit and able to walk on his own. It may take a few weeks to few months but I am sure I shall be able to get him on his feet very soon. Hoping to see you all very soon.

Yours truly,
Mohit.

(Courtesy: Kiran Makkar)

General Writing Task 1: Letter 4

2012-09-19T17:27:00.001-07:00

Write a letter to a manager whose company is constructing their new office next to your apartment.
- Introduce yourself
- Describe problems you are facing because of this
- Suggest solutions

Dear Sir,

I am Matt Camden, a resident of Dreamland Society. Your company is constructing its new office right next to my apartment. I am writing this letter to complain about the problems I am facing because of the construction work.

The main problem I am facing is that the construction workers dump the bricks and cement in front of my house because of which I find it difficult to park my car and scooter. Secondly, they spill so much water during their work that the whole area has become slippery. I have elderly parents at home who find it difficult to go anywhere because of the fear of slipping. Finally, the workers play very loud music on their radios the whole day long which is very disturbing.

It would be very kind of you if you look into the matter urgently. The bricks and cement could be dumped into the vacant plot on the back side of the building. The masons should be guided to use the water with the help of pipes so that there is less spillage. Finally, if they have to listen to music while working then at least there should be some check on the volume of the music.

Hoping from a prompt action from you regarding this matter.

Yours faithfully,
Matt Camden.

(Courtesy: Kiran Makkar)

General Writing Task 1: Letter 3

2012-09-19T17:22:00.001-07:00

You have heard that your company is organising a language training abroad for a limited number of participants. Write a letter of interest:-
- state your position in your company
- explain why they should include you in the training
- explain how your training could benefit you and your company

Dear Sir,

I am writing this letter to request you to consider my name for the German language training course that you are organising in Berlin.

I have been working as a deputy manager in the Human Resources Department of your company for the last three years. I am in charge of 500 workers working in the company. More than 30% of the workforce is from other countries out of which 20% is from Germany alone. So, you can well understand why it is imperative for me to attend this course.

This course would benefit me a lot. I would be able to interact with the 100 or so employees from Germany. The communication gap with them has led to misunderstandings and this has in turn hampered their work efficiency. After doing this course I would prove an asset to the company.

Doing this course in Germany would also help me in understanding their culture and way of life. We could provide our German employees a better work atmosphere. This would raise the productivity of the company as a whole.

Hoping for a favourable response from you in this matter.

Thanking you.

Yours faithfully,
Vidhi.

(Courtesy: Kiran Makkar)

General Writing Task 1: Letter 2

2012-09-19T17:18:00.000-07:00

You would like to work overseas, write a letter to an employment agency. Write:-
- what job you would like to apply
- what companies are you looking for
- why do you want to work overseas

Dear Sir,

I am writing with reference to your advertisement in the local „Employment News‟ magazine for want of various categories of workers in New Zealand. I consider that my credentials match the category of certified nursing assistants and I want to apply for the same. I am enclosing my CV for this job.

Presently, I am deputed as a nurse at Regional Hospital. I have been working here for the last two years. During these years I have equipped myself with all the nursing functions, which include taking and recording temperature, blood pressure, pulse and respiratory rates along with cleaning, sterilising and preparing treatment trays. Strong communication skills and reacting actively to emergency situations has made me an organised nursing assistant.

Although I am enjoying my present job, I am looking for new opportunities in the developed world. I am sure that working in New Zealand would broaden my horizons even further, and on coming back, I would be able to serve my people even further.

If you have any questions please feel free to contact me at 9888195776. I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Yours faithfully,
Vidhi.

(Courtesy: Kiran Makkar)

Correction 1

2012-09-05T17:57:00.000-07:00

ORIGINAL:

It is true that the growing tendency of advertising is all around us , and becoming an unavoidable part of everyone, the dilemma of whether it is positive for us or negative has already become an controversial issue in recent years. While advertising indeed has some benefits, there are also several drawbacks which are worth considering.

On the one hand, advertising will make contributions for booming the economy. In other words, it can be beneficial to marketing, among with the consumption is stimulated, becomes the most favorite way of promoting products. At the mean time, it also build up a feasible channel for consumers to purchase what they want, which is very crucial given the fast pace of life today.

On the other hand, it can not fail to take into account the negative impacts from advertising. Firstly, consumers may be mislead form fake advertisement, which means the products' performance can not be matched with what they promised. What is worse, consumers may get injured from unqualitied medical products, which may cause disastrous impacts.

Secondly, advertisements will advocate consumerism and cause people to be extravagant. Especially, youngsters, who will be influenced easily from peer, they may purchase what tempts them without the insight of what they need actually. Taking China as an instance, with Apple becoming an icon culture globally, a large number of Chinese freshmen require their parents buy all Apple products before they go to college, which is not extremely necessary for their schooling.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that advertising can make benefits by bringing huge profit to businesses, while, it may hurts clients both physically and psychologically. Thus, I think the advantages of advertisements are overweigh than disadvantages.

CORRECTION:

It is true that the growing tendency of advertising is all around us , and is becoming an unavoidable part of everyone,. The dilemma of whether it is positive for us or negative has already become a controversial issue in recent years. While advertising indeed has some benefits, there are also several drawbacks which are worth considering.

On the one hand, advertising will make contributions for booming the economy. In other words, it can be beneficial to marketing, among with the consumption is stimulated, becomes the most favorite way of promoting products. In the mean time, it also builds up a feasible channel for consumers to purchase what they want, which is very crucial given the fast pace of life today.

On the other hand, we can not fail to take into account the negative impacts of advertising. Firstly, consumers may be mislead by fake advertisement, which means the products' performance cannot be matched with what they have promised. What is worse, consumers may get injured from poor quality medical products, which may cause disastrous impacts.

Secondly, advertisements will advocate consumerism and cause people to be extravagant. Especially, youngsters, who will be easily influenced from peers, may purchase what tempts them without the insight of what they need actually. Taking China as an instance, with Apple becoming an icon culture globally, a large number of Chinese freshmen require their parents buy all Apple products before they go to college, which is not extremely necessary for their schooling.

In conclusion, there is no doubt that advertising can be beneficial by bringing huge profit to businesses, while, it may hurts hurt clients both physically and psychologically. Thus, I think the advantages of advertisements are overweigh its/the disadvantages.

Vocabulary Chapter 6: Environment

2012-09-04T01:38:00.001-07:00

1. GEOGRAPHY

north
south
east
west
northern/southern hemisphere
latitude
longitude

2. SEA

ocean
gulf
maritime
current
flow
salinity

3. LAND

continent
coast
landmass
mountain range

4. CLIMATE

atmosphere
high/low pressure
humid
mild
(sub-)tropical
monsoon
trade winds
moisture
precipitation
flood
drought

Vocabulary Chapter 5: Energy

2012-09-04T01:26:00.001-07:00

1. TYPES OF POWER:

(hydro-)electric
solar
nuclear
coal-/gas-/oil-fired
wave
wind
geothermal
biomass

2. TYPES OF FUEL

(non-)renewable source
fossil fuel
radioactive
uranium

3. PLACES

(nuclear) power station
wind farm
dam

4. WORKING PARTS

(wind) turbine
solar panel
reactor
generator
transformer

5. VERBS

generate
produce
collect
store
burn
transmit
distribute

Vocabulary Chapter 4: Cities & Towns

2012-09-03T02:08:00.003-07:00

1. LOCATION:

west(ern)
east(ern)
north(ern)
south(ern)
inland

2. TYPE OF CITY:

capital city
provincial city
district/regional/provincial capital
administrative/commercial capital
port

3. DESCRIBING CITIES:

A. PHYSICAL

suburb
inner city
sector
harbour
bay
waterfront
zone
area
district
coastal

B. CHARACTER

fascinating
vibrant
ancient
tourist
modern
major
world-famous
cosmopolitan
multicultural
metropolitan
historic
industrial

C. CLIMATE

temperate
humid
changeable
tropical

Vocabulary Chapter 3: Art & Culture

2012-09-03T01:34:00.001-07:00

1. MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS:

guitar
piano
violin
cello
flute
saxophone

2. MUSICAL STYLES:

jazz
rock
classical
hip-hop
reggae
world

3. EVENTS:

performance art
street art
concert
gig
carnival
festival

4. PLACES:

museum
(art) gallery
theatre
exhibition (hall)
opera house

5. ART:

sculpture
sketch
self-portrait
portrait
ceramic

6. DESCRIBING ART:

abstract
still-life
contemporary
surreal
modern

Writing Task 2: Essay 8

2012-08-30T00:24:00.003-07:00

All high or secondary school students should be taught how to manage money, because it is an important life skill. Do you agree or disagree?

It is irrefutable that in today’s complex life, monetary skills are essential for people of all ages. However, whether school-aged children should have such knowledge or not is often a debated topic. It is agreed that money management is a vital life skill and hence should be taught to secondary school students. This will be analysed by showing how this can help teenagers to grow into more responsible adults as well as help them to handle their finances in efficient manner.

For one, teaching monetary skills at school level helps young students to understand the value of money at an early age. For instance, youngsters who are taught to be money savvy since teen life become more accountable in their later life as a grown-up. Moreover, this encourages them to wisely spend their funds, while making them realize the worth of all the facilities provided to them by their parents. Thus, it is understandable how knowledge about money can cater students towards an erudite adult life.

In addition to this, wealth management competencies acquired during young age can prove to be an asset of great magnitude throughout the lifetime. For example, individuals who start a business or even a family require certain level of financial know-how to function efficiently. In the meanwhile, such proficiencies learned in school make young adults acquainted with superior budget planning strategies, thus increasing the chances of success by taking judicious decisions. Therefore, it is clear why awareness about money matters instilled during high school is extremely profitable for one’s personal and professional life.

Following this analysis, it is felt that idea of educating students with monetary information definitely has enormous merits, therefore, leading them to an enriched future life. It is thus hoped that in foreseeable future, more pupils will be imparted skills regarding the benefits and risks associated with wealth.

Writing Task 2: Essay 7

2012-08-29T21:54:00.004-07:00

Traffic jams are becoming a problem in big towns and cities nowadays. As a solution some people are suggesting widening the roads. Do you agree or disagree?

Today, majority of the highly populated cities around the globe experience enormous traffic congestion. According to few individuals, broadening the roads is the ultimate solution for this problem. However, it is argued that there are other steps which are probably more effective than widening the roads. This will be proven by looking at how building better public transportation services and maintaining proper roads helps reduce traffic significantly.

For one, improving the public transit services of a city encourages more people to choose this mode of transport against using personal vehicles. For example, in Melbourne, the trains, buses and trams offer services in even the most remote regions of the city at an affordable fee. Because of the availability of such convenient and affordable facility, more and more residents prefer commuting by public transport, which in turn reduces the number of personal cars on roads. Hence, it is clear how better public transport system can solve the issue of congested traffic.

In addition to this, regular maintenance of roadways assists in keeping the traffic flow moving. Take Mumbai, as an illustration. There are regular instances of road blockages due to repair work being done on damaged roads in Mumbai, thus blocking the traffic at several places around the city. As a result, cars are jammed at one place and it makes the already severe traffic congestion even worse. Thus, maintaining city’s roads can prove to be very helpful in avoiding huge traffic jams.

Following this look, it is felt that providing citizens with superior quality roads and excellent public transportation are better solutions as compared to widening the roads. It is therefore hoped that in the foreseeable future, governments will focus on such methods to solve the traffic problems.

Vocabulary Chapter 2: Describing Things

2012-08-28T15:18:00.001-07:00

1. Dimensions (noun > adjective)

breadth > broad
width > wide
depth > deep
height > high
length > long
weight > heavy

2. Shapes (noun > adjective)

circle > circular
oval > oval
rectangle > rectangular
square > square
triangle > triangular
pyramid > pyramidal

3. Size

bulky
compact
enormous
huge
tiny
narrow
small
large

4. Patterns

plain
checked
stripy
flowery

5. Age

modern
antique
used
new
six months old
second-hand

Vocabulary Chapter 1: Describing People

2012-08-28T15:00:00.000-07:00

A. Physical

1. Age:

baby
toddler
school age
school-aged
teen
teenager
middle age
middle-aged
adult
pensioner
old age
old-aged

2. Body shape:

figure/shape
pear-shaped
apple-shaped
ruler
hourglass (figure)
slim
overweight
skinny
curvy

3. Face:

round
oval
heart-shaped
square

4. Hair:

straight
curly
wavy
blond(e)
brunette
bald

B. Character

amusing
arrogant
brainy
creepy
easy-going
enthusiastic
funny
fussy
generous
gifted
grumpy
hard-working
idle
mean
nervous
punctual
(self-)confident
strange
strict
sulky
thoughtful
unenthusiastic

Writing Task 2: Essay 6

2012-08-28T01:42:00.000-07:00

Some people believe that travelling is a valuable experience; others say it is a waste of time and money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

It is undeniable fact that travelling has become one of the most preferred leisure activities. A large number of people hold the opinion that travel experiences bring with it significant benefits. Others, however, feel that it is merely a waste of time and monetary resources. Both sides of this argument will be discussed in this essay before a reasoned conclusion is drawn.

According to many, one can acquire substantial knowledge and wisdom along with great fun and entertainment, by pursuing journey to various places. Many artists for example, are inspired by different locations around the world and thus, use the creative and innovative ideas gained during travelling. In this way, the awareness about different culture and traditions is spread to wider range of people. As such, the concept of one world and globalization can be considered as a fruit of such exploration. Moreover, most tourists would agree that travel provides immense amount of relaxation, while reinvigorating our body, mind and soul at the same time. Therefore, it is understandable why this point of view has garnered support.

On the other hand, many people contest the above and argue that the increasing costs of conveyance and the time spent for it makes travelling an activity of little value/worth. A good example of this is today’s young generation, who prefer to take a gap year during their studies and go on an excursion. This not only interrupts with their academic continuity, but can be seen as a noteworthy loss of their precious time. Also, as most of these youngsters are not financially well-versed, it is not wrong to say that money spent during their journey could have been used for other essential activities. When seen in this light, it is clear why many feel touring to be a worthless endeavour.

Following this debate, although both sides of this discussion contain indisputable virtues, it is felt that travelling helps to broaden our horizon and has tremendous merits. It is hence, expected that more people will engage in voyaging in the foreseeable future.

Writing Task 2: Essay 5

2012-08-27T19:27:00.000-07:00

In many countries recently young single people have been living far from their parents, from the time they began studies or work and until they married. Do you think there are more advantages or disadvantages to this trend?

Today, the concept of youth freedom has tempted more and more modern youngsters to move out of their parent’s home at a younger age, either for studies or for work purposes. Although, this trend brings with it a number of positive ramifications, negative aspects are also quite numerous. Both the advantages and disadvantages of this topic will be discussed in this essay before a reasoned conclusion is drawn.

On the one hand, the independency resulting from living on their own, prepares the young single people to be more self-reliant. In other words, being independent teaches them to face the life’s challenges and adversities with great courage and self-confidence. Youngsters in Western countries, for example, feel it necessary to move out of the family home once they turn 18. In the meantime, during their life away from the parents, they learn to handle their personal issues regarding every aspect of life including emotional as well as financial stress. As a result, it is seen that youngsters from nations like these, tend to be more successful at an early age. From this perspective, living independently for education or employment can be seen as a positive thing.

On the other hand, however, it is also true that many youngsters living away from home may choose a wrong path for their life. Diverting to harmful habits such as drugs and alcohol is easy in absence of the guidance and monitoring of elders. For instance, today there are frequent news of cases appearing in media, showing increasing number of young adults getting involved with drug abuse, youth crime and alcoholism. Hence, instead of being responsible towards their life and career, there are many young people who exploit the freedom given to them and damage their whole future prospects to live a better life. Thus, this is an obvious disadvantage of people moving away from their parents at a very young age.

Following this analysis, it is felt that the benefits of living away from parents for academic and professional reasons clearly outweigh the drawbacks. It is therefore hoped that more youngsters will use this opportunity to build a solid foundation for their entire future life.