IELTS Writing · Task 2
IELTS Writing Task 2: discussion essay
Two opposing views followed by: Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
- 5 practice questions
- 40 minutes · 250 words
What the examiner looks for
- Both views are discussed, each with its reasons, whichever one you hold.
- Your own opinion is stated in so many words. An essay that only reports the two views has not answered the question.
- The essay is at least 250 words, and Task 2 counts twice as much as Task 1 towards the Writing band.
Discussion essay questions to practise
1. WorkAcademic test: Household work
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that employers should allow their staff to work from home whenever they wish. Others believe that people work better and learn more when they are together in an office.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
2. CrimeAcademic test: Household waste
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that the most effective way to reduce crime is to give criminals longer prison sentences. Others argue that better education and employment opportunities would do more.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
3. FamilyGeneral Training test: A first visit
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that parents should decide how their children spend their free time. Others believe that children should be free to choose for themselves.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
4. SportGeneral Training test: The charity run
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that children should take part in competitive sport at school. Others think that schools should teach only activities in which children cooperate rather than compete.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
5. EducationGeneral Training test: Studying here
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people think that university education should be paid for by the government. Others believe that students themselves should meet the cost of their studies.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.