Showing posts with label IELTS. Show all posts
Showing posts with label IELTS. Show all posts

Tuesday, May 9, 2023

IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essay 4 - Borrowing money from a friend

 

It is sometimes said that borrowing money from a friend can harm or damage the friendship. Do you agree? Why or why not? 

Use reasons and specific examples to explain your answer. 

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task to write at least 250 words.

 


Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

Saturday, April 29, 2023

IELTS Speaking - Part 1: Holidays


 Holidays

  •           What do you do when you have a holiday?
  •        Who do you usually spend holiday with?
  •        Where do you like to spend your holidays? Why?
  •        Can you describe a typical day in your holidays?
  •        Why are holidays and important to you?
  •        If you could take a holiday anywhere in the world, where would you go? Why?
  •        What do people usually do during holidays and in your town?
1. What do you do in your holidays?

Sometimes I travel to broaden my horizons, to admire the beauty of nature and to plunge myself into the picturesque landscape in other regions in my country. Every now and then, I just stay at home with my family and have a little get-together to celebrate the holidays.

2. Who do you usually spend the holiday with?

It depends on what kind of holiday it is. If it’s Christmas vacation, I prefer to hang out with my friends here and there and have a chit-chat. If it’s New Year holiday, I just want to celebrate the holiday with my family and relatives in a cozy ambience.

3. Do you prefer travelling alone or in a group?

I would say that I’m kind of an introvert so I would rather travel alone to some tranquil and peaceful beauty spots than travel with a group of people during the holiday.

4. Why are holidays important to you?

A holiday is a perfect time for recharging my batteries after a year full of challenges and obstacles, having some me time, and planning for the upcoming year.

5. If you could take a holiday anywhere in the world, where would you go? Why?

If the choice is in my hands, I’m yearning for travelling to […..] on Christmas vacation when the weather is neither too cold nor too hot. There I can contemplate the picturesque
scenery.

6. Do you like holidays? Why / why not?

Yes, I love holidays because I get the chance to take a break from work, to relax and unwind, and to spend time with my family.

7. Do you prefer to travel or stay at home during holiday periods? Why?

If I can I prefer to travel. It's nice to get away from everything and to have a change of scenery. Also, I like visiting new places and doing some sightseeing.

8. What do most people do during their holidays in your country? Why?

During the summer especially, I think most British people go somewhere hot and sunny, to escape from the British weather!

9. When do you prefer to take your holidays? Why?

I like taking my holidays just outside the main summer season, which is July and August. If you go on holiday in May, June or September, everything is cheaper and places aren't so crowded with tourists.

Vocabulary

In my hands (В моих руках) In one’s the responsibility, charge, or care
Eg: I took the case in my hand

Yearn for doing something (Стремиться к чему-то): to want something a lot, especially something that you know you may not be able to have

Eg: I really yearn to have that magic pencil with me

Contemplate (Созерцать): to look at something or someone for a long time | admire

Eg: The painting made me contemplate its theme.

Broaden/widen/expand one’s horizon (Расширить свой кругозор): to make you see a wider range of opportunities and choices | expand one’s range of interests, activities, and knowledge.

Eg: “You should expand your horizons by travelling.”

Plunge oneself into something (Погрузиться во что-либо): to suddenly start doing something with energy and enthusiasm, but sometimes without thinking about it first.

Eg: He plunged himself into bungee jumping

Every now and then (Время от времени): sometimes

Eg: My sister annoys me every now and then

Get-together (Собираться): a small informal meeting or social gathering

Eg: There was a get-together, last evening

Here and there (Здесь и там): in various places

Eg: My mom scolds me for keeping things here and there

Chit chat (Болтовня): inconsequential conversation; gossip

Eg: I usually have a chit chat with my friends


Friday, April 28, 2023

IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essay 3 - A traditional house vs a modern apartment building

Would you prefer to live in a traditional house or in a modern apartment building? 

Use specific reasons and details to support your choice.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task to write at least 250 words. 

 Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

Thursday, April 20, 2023

IELTS Writing Task 2: Opinion Essay 2 - A gift for a child's development

A gift (such as a camera, a soccer ball, or an animal) can contribute to a child’s development. What gift would you give to help a child develop? 

Why? Use reasons and specific examples to support your choice. 

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task to write at least 250 words. 


Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

Monday, April 17, 2023

IELTS Writing Task 2: Discuss Both Views Essay 3 - Advertising

Some people say that advertising encourages us to buy things we really do not need. Others say that advertisements tell us about new products that may improve our lives. 

Which viewpoint do you agree with? Use specific reasons and examples to support your answer.

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task to write at least 250 words. 




Quiz created by Veronika Bebekh with GoConqr

Wednesday, March 22, 2023

IELTS Writing Task 2: Problem/Solution Essay

IELTS tip

  • A problem and solution essay is a common type of IELTS writing task 2 essay question, where you have to explain one or more of the following: 
  • A common problem/ problems in the world
  • A cause/causes of a problem
  • A possible solution/solutions

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task to write at least 250 words. 

There are a few different ways that a problem/solution question may be worded and it is important to understand exactly what you are being asked to do.

Here are the three main types of problem/solution question aims:

1. Write about a problem and possible solutions to that problem

2. Write about a cause of a problem and possible solutions

3. Only write about the solutions

 

And here are some ways the question may be worded for each aim:

  1. What problems arise from this and how can they be tackled?
  2. What do you think the causes are? What are the solutions?
  3. What solution can you suggest to deal with this problem?

Identifying common synonyms in the instruction words will also help you to identify the aim:

Problem: Situation; resulting in..; issue

Cause: Reason; why

The only solution: address; present; solve; improve; tackle; remedy; deal with

Take the time to read the question carefully! 

It is a common mistake to answer the wrong question.

Example problem/solution questions 


Here are some example problem/solution questions. Try to work out what the aim is for each question:

Topic 1
The internet has transformed the way information is shared and consumed, but it has also created problems that did not exist before.
What are the most serious problems associated with the internet and what solutions can you suggest?

Topic 2
Overpopulation of urban areas has led to numerous problems.
Identify two serious ones and suggest ways that governments and individuals can tackle these problems.

Topic 3
One problem faced by almost every large city is traffic congestion
What do you think the causes are? What solutions can you suggest?

Topic 4
More and more wild animals are on the verge of extinction and others are on the endangered list.
What are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve the problem?

Topic 5
In many developing countries, there is a problem with declining quality of air and water from both industry and construction.
What measures could be taken to prevent this?

Structure + Useful Language 

  


Note that essay structure 2 suggests that it is an option to write about more than one problem and solution. In fact, the essay question will usually ask for problems and solutions in the plural.

However, it is acceptable to write about one problem and solution so that you fully develop your ideas rather than rushing through your essay and missing any important examples or explanations.


Question 1 Model Answer


Wednesday, March 15, 2023

University Interview


 What is the university interview process?

A personal interview is typically part of a college or university’s admission process. It may take place on campus, off-site or even virtually. The interviewer asks questions to learn about you, your interests and your potential to do well in their program. You can also ask questions about the school, degree programs or any subject you’d like to know more about.
Not all universities require interviews. If you are given the option, however, you should ask for one. Asking for an interview helps show that you are genuinely interested in attending the program and also lets the interviewer learn about you beyond what’s included in your application packet.

General interview questions

General questions are typically asked at the beginning of the conversation and help the interviewer get to know you. Examples include:
  1. Tell me about yourself.

  2. How did you hear about this university?

  3. What do you know about our university?

  4. Why do you want to attend this university?

  5. Why do you feel you should be accepted to this university?

  6. What are some of your academic strengths?

  7. What do you consider your academic weaknesses? How do you address them?

  8. What do you plan to major in? Why?

  9. What are the expectations of your university education program?

  10. What will you do to make make a difference at this university?

    Questions about your educational background

    You may be asked questions about your high school experience and educational background. Examples include:

    1. What was your graduating GPA (Grade Point Average - выпускной средний балл)?

    2. What extracurricular activities have you participated in? 

    3. Did you complete any honors or AP courses (The Advanced Placement Program - это программа углубленного изучения учебных предметов в школах США, Канады и Великобритании. Она готовит старшеклассников к поступлению в вузы.)? If so, which ones?
    4. How would you describe your high school atmosphere?

    5. What are some of your academic achievements?

    6. What academic skills do you feel you can improve on?

    7. What are some of your interests outside of school?

    8. What skills have you developed to help you succeed in university?

    9. Describe an experience or project you worked on in high school that you enjoyed?

    10. Where do you see yourself in five years?

    Questions about your experiences

    You may be asked more about your life experiences, how you see the world and what you do with your time. Examples include:
    1. What have you read recently that has impacted or changed how you see the world?

    2. Describe a time when you had to work as part of a team.

    3. If you won the lottery, what would you do with the money?

    4. Who do you consider a role model in your personal life?

    5. What makes you different from other students at this school?

    6. Describe a time when you stepped up as a leader.

    7. What does being successful mean to you?

    8. Can you describe a challenge that you overcame?

    9. What do you do for fun in your free time?

    10. What are three adjectives to best describe you?

    In-depth questions

    You may also be asked some more in-depth questions about your plans during your college career or if you have any goals. Examples include:
    1. Why are you interested in pursuing your major?

    2. What skills do you expect to develop through your degree program?

    3. Do you plan to continue your education?

    4. What career fields interest you?

    5. Will you seek financial aid?

    6. What are your plans after you graduate from university?

    7. Where do you hope to be career-wise in 10 years?

    8. What are some academic goals you hope to accomplish in university?

    9. What skills do you hope to develop in university?

    10. Do you plan to participate in activities outside of class?

    University interview questions and sample answers

    How will you contribute to the university community?

    During your university interview, the interviewer might ask you this question as a way to gauge your involvement and commitment to the school. If there are sports, clubs or other types of extracurricular activities you are interested in, you can explain that to the interviewer.

    Example: "I was very involved with my high school political science club. Since I will be majoring in political science, I hope to join the club here, too, so I can continue developing my skills in that subject."

    Why are you interested in pursuing your major?

    University students may enter their educational programs with no idea of what they will study. The interviewer most likely wants to know if you at least have a plan for your college career. Answer honestly with your reasons for choosing your major. If you have yet to narrow down your choices, you might discuss two or three majors that highly interest you and your reasons for choosing them.

    Example: "I am interested in a career in political science because I feel like my generation should be involved with the development of our nation. I also feel that my generation has an equal responsibility to contribute to our nation and I hope by studying political science I can inspire more young people to take part in our country's governmental processes."

    What skills do you expect to develop through your program?

    You might be asked this question to assess your awareness of your academic weaknesses and how you plan to develop or improve your various academic skills. Keep your answer honest and include one or two main skills you would like to develop.

    Example: "In high school, my research writing wasn't as strong as I would have liked, and I continue to build my writing skills in this area. I hope that through my educational program I can further develop this skill to become an efficient researcher and writer."

    Do you plan to continue your education?

    If you are presented with this question, don’t be afraid to say you don’t know at this time. However, if you do plan to attend graduate school, discuss this in your answer.

    Example: "I can see myself pursuing a higher degree after undergraduate school, though I do not quite know yet if that is something I want to do. I feel like I will have a better idea of my higher education goals after attending my program for a while."

    What career fields interest you?

    The interviewer may be assessing your interests and evaluating which programs you would be best suited for. You might narrow down your interests to two or three career fields that relate to your major.

    Example: "I honestly don't know what I will be doing after graduation, but I know I would love to pursue a career in international affairs, legislation or another political field."

    Will you seek financial aid?

    If the interviewer asks this question, it is most likely to assess which financial aid programs, grants or scholarships may be options for you. If you plan to seek financial aid, let them know in your answer what steps you have already taken to address the costs of college.

    Example: "I was awarded several scholarships during high school, and I will be seeking additional qualifying grants."

    What are your plans after you graduate college?

    If you are still considering what to major in, you may not have an exact answer for this. However, if you have certain career interests, travel plans or other development goals, share them in your answer.

    Example: "I don't have an exact plan for after graduation, however, I do plan to pursue my career in political science. I hope that by moving into this career field, I can also travel to some parts of the world that I've been wanting to see."

    What are some academic goals you hope to accomplish in college?

    This question might be presented as a way to assess your motivation and commitment to your education. If you have specific goals, share them in your answer.

    Example: "I would love to increase my knowledge of applied mathematics and earn top scores in my political science classes by the end of my first year in college. I feel that by accomplishing these goals I can further develop my critical and creative thinking."

    What skills do you hope to develop in university?

    The interviewer may ask this question as a way to address your awareness of your skill level. Answer honestly with skill sets that you feel you can improve while attending university.

    Example: "I feel that my writing and communication skills can be improved. I plan to use my class time to work on developing my skills in this area. I feel that improving these skills will help me become a better writer and public speaker."

    Do you plan to participate in academic activities outside of class?

    This question can serve as a way to assess your interest, motivation and dedication to your college campus. If there are projects, research papers or other academic pursuits you are interested in outside of class, share that in your answer.

    Example: "I am familiar with the academic clubs and opportunities your school offers outside of class, and I'm very interested in getting involved with a political research project. I would even be happy to start a project with other interested classmates."

    •  that can’t be easily answered from the school’s website.

    • Learn where the interview will be held and practice getting there. Be familiar with the route to the location, including directions to the school, building and office. This will help avoid getting lost or confused and possibly missing your interview.

    • Practice how you will answer interview questions with a friend, family member or even in a mirror to help you plan what to say and how to present your answer. You want to demonstrate enthusiasm and energy.

    • Review your application packet and admission essays. Most interviewers will ask questions taken directly from those documents so you must remember what you said or wrote. Be prepared to expand on any information that you provided.

    • Bring any transcripts, letters of recommendation, resume or other evidence to show how you succeeded in high school. The documents were likely included in your admission packet but copies may be needed for additional interviewers.

    • First impressions are important. Arrive on time, preferably 15 minutes early. Dress appropriately in work attire and maintain eye contact. Shake the interviewer’s hand. Talk naturally without slang or swear words. If it’s a virtual interview, make sure the background is appropriate.

    • Turn your smartphone off and be prepared to sit for 30 minutes or more. Have a snack, a glass of water or a small meal before your interview so you don’t go into it with an empty stomach. If you have allergies, take a small packet of tissues.

    • Keep up with news and current events in case the interviewer asks for your opinions. You may also work current events into other answers to show that you are an informed person who cares about what’s happening outside the classroom.

    • Be yourself, so the interviewer gets a feel of who you are, how you might fit into degree programs and what you might bring to the school. Show the interviewer that you are serious, poised and mature. Also, you want them to see your confidence, so smile!

    • Follow up the interview with a thank you note sent by mail or email. Express your appreciation for the interviewer’s time and the college’s interest in you