IELTS Free Online Speaking Practice
Part 1:
1. What is your full name?
2. Can you tell me something about where you live?
3. Do you enjoy shopping? Why or why not?
4. What kind of weather do you prefer: hot, cold or moderate temperatures and why?
5. How often do you go to the cinema/movies?
6. Can you describe a hobby that you have?
7. Are there any sports you like to play or watch?
8. How would you spend your ideal day off?
9. What is an important quality for a person to have, in your opinion?
Part 2 (Cue Card):
Title: Talk about a time when you felt happy.
- When did this event take place?
- Where were you and who were you with at the time of this event?
- Can you describe what happened that made you feel happy during this event?
- What emotions or feelings did you experience as a result of this event?
- How would you rate your happiness level on a scale of 1 to 10, where 1 is least happy and 10 is the happiest?
Part 3:
1. How do people in your country express their happiness compared to people in other countries?
2. What are some ways that you believe happiness can be achieved in life?
3. In what situations or events might a person feel the most happy, and why do you think this is?
4. Some people believe that material possessions can bring happiness, while others argue that personal relationships and experiences are more important. What are your thoughts on this topic?
IELTS Free Online Writing Practice
Question: Some people believe that schools should offer vocational training in addition to academic subjects, while others argue that this is unnecessary and that the primary focus of schools should be on providing a broad education. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Model Answer:
In recent years, there has been an ongoing debate about whether schools should incorporate vocational training alongside traditional academic subjects. Proponents of this idea argue that it provides students with practical skills and experiences which are essential for career success in the modern job market. However, opponents contend that a broad education is more valuable in preparing individuals to adapt to changing circumstances and new challenges throughout their lives. In this essay, I will discuss both views before presenting my own opinion.
Those who support the integration of vocational training into the school curriculum argue that it equips students with specific skills needed for certain industries, such as engineering or healthcare. They believe that by gaining hands-on experience in these fields during their formative years, students can better understand if a particular career path suits them and increase their chances of success in the workplace. Additionally, proponents argue that this approach helps reduce youth unemployment rates by ensuring that graduates are equipped with marketable skills upon entering the job market.
On the other hand, critics maintain that a comprehensive education should focus on developing critical thinking, problem-solving abilities, and communication skills, which they believe are transferable across various industries and situations. They argue that focusing too heavily on vocational training may limit students' exposure to different fields of study and restrict their opportunities for personal growth and development. Furthermore, opponents assert that a broad education prepares individuals to adapt more easily to evolving job markets and emerging technologies.
While I acknowledge the benefits of both perspectives, I personally believe that a well-rounded education should include elements of both academic subjects and vocational training. It is essential for students to develop a strong foundation in core subjects such as mathematics, literature, and social sciences, which foster critical thinking and problem-solving skills. However, incorporating practical experience through vocational programs can complement this broad education by offering students opportunities to explore potential career paths and build industry-specific skills.
In conclusion, schools should strike a balance between providing an extensive education in academic subjects and offering vocational training. This approach allows students to gain a comprehensive understanding of various fields while also acquiring valuable practical experience that can be applied directly to their careers. Ultimately, this combination prepares individuals for success not only in the job market but also in navigating the complexities of modern life.
Score: Band 9 - The response demonstrates an excellent command of the topic and a thorough understanding of both viewpoints. It presents a well-structured argument with clear examples to support its stance, and concludes by effectively summarizing its position on the issue.
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