IELTS (British Council / IDP / Cambridge English)

IELTS Academic · Writing Task 2

Discursive essay of at least 250 words. Recommended 40 minutes. Carries two thirds of the Writing band.

6 exam-style questions, written to the IELTS (British Council / IDP / Cambridge English) format and free to read. The answers are here too — what they do not tell you is how many you would get right with a clock running.

Sit this paper timed All IELTS Academic papers

In some countries, the number of people learning a second language is falling. Why might this be happening? Is this a positive or a negative development?

IELTS Academic · Writing Task 2

In some countries, the number of people learning a second language is falling. Why might this be happening? Is this a positive or a negative development?

2. Some people say that examinations are the fairest way to assess a student's ability. Others believe that continuous assessment throughout the year is fairer. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

3. More and more workplaces allow staff to work from home. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

4. Some people think that employers should not be allowed to consider a candidate's social media accounts when hiring. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

5. Some people believe that university education should be free for every student. Others argue that students who can afford to pay should do so. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

6. In many countries, young people are moving from rural areas to cities in large numbers. What are the causes of this trend, and what measures could be taken to address it?

Reading these is not the same as sitting them.