IELTS Discuss Both Views Essay Practice
A discuss-both-views essay asks you to explain two opinions fairly and then give your own.
How to approach it
- Introduce both views and say you will discuss them.
- Paragraph 1: the first view with reasons and an example.
- Paragraph 2: the second view with reasons and an example.
- State your own opinion clearly (in the introduction or conclusion) and keep it consistent.
22 practice questions
Online vs Traditional Education
Some people believe that online education is as effective as traditional classroom learning, while others argue that face-to-face instruction is irreplaceable. Discuss both views and give your own …
EducationSpace Exploration Investment
Governments spend billions of dollars on space exploration while many people on Earth lack basic necessities like clean water, healthcare, and education. Some argue that space exploration is …
TechnologyLearning a Foreign Language at Primary School
Some educators believe that children should begin learning a foreign language at primary school, while others argue that this time would be better spent on core subjects such …
EducationCharging Drivers to Enter City Centres
Many cities now charge drivers a fee to enter the city centre during busy hours. Do the advantages of this policy outweigh the disadvantages? Give reasons for your …
TransportCutting Physical Education in Schools
Many schools have reduced the time given to physical education in order to make room for academic subjects. Others argue that regular sport is essential for children's development. …
SportSelf-Checkout Machines in Supermarkets
Many supermarkets now provide self-checkout machines so that customers can scan and pay for their own shopping instead of queuing for a cashier. Do the advantages of this …
TechnologyCharging Admission to Museums
Some people think that museums and heritage sites should be free of charge so that everyone can enjoy them, while others believe that admission fees are necessary to …
CultureFree Online News Funded by Advertising
Many news organisations now publish their stories free of charge online and rely on advertising rather than subscription fees. Do the advantages of this model outweigh the disadvantages? …
MediaA Universal Basic Income for Everyone
Some argue that a universal basic income, paid to every citizen regardless of employment, would relieve financial pressure and encourage people to pursue creative work. Others believe it …
WorkHosting the Olympic Games
Cities that host major international sporting events such as the Olympic Games often spend large sums on new stadiums and transport links. Do the advantages of hosting such …
SportCashless Shops
Some countries are considering a law that would require every shop to accept card or mobile payments and to stop accepting cash altogether. Supporters believe this would make …
EconomyLab-Grown Meat in Supermarkets
Scientists can now grow meat from animal cells in laboratories, without raising or slaughtering animals. Some governments have approved its sale, and supermarkets are beginning to stock it …
FoodFacial Recognition in Public Places
Police in some cities use facial recognition software on public-space cameras to identify suspects and find missing people. Critics warn that such systems threaten privacy and may wrongly …
CrimeUniversity Education Funding Debate
Some people believe that university education should be free for all students, while others think students should pay fees. Discuss both views and give your own opinion. Give …
EducationTraditional vs Modern Shopping
Online shopping has become increasingly popular, leading to the closure of many traditional brick-and-mortar stores. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend? How do you think …
SocietyCycle Lanes or More Road Space for Cars
Some people think town councils should spend their transport budgets on building more cycle lanes, while others believe the money should be used to widen roads for cars. …
TransportAnswering Work Emails After Hours
Some employers expect staff to answer work emails and phone calls in the evenings and at weekends. Others believe that employees should be free from work contact once …
WorkRoutine Medical Check-Ups for Healthy Adults
Some people believe that healthy adults should not be given routine medical check-ups, since the money could be better spent on treating patients who are already ill. Others …
HealthShort-Term Holiday Rentals in Residential Streets
Many homeowners now rent out their flats and houses to holidaymakers through online booking websites, rather than to long-term tenants. Do the advantages of this practice outweigh the …
HousingSmart Home Devices in Everyday Life
Many families now install smart devices in their homes, such as voice-controlled speakers, heating systems that can be adjusted from a phone, and connected door locks. Do the …
TechnologyBuilding a New Stadium for a Local Football Club
A local council is considering the construction of a new stadium for the town's football club, which would require substantial public funding and the closure of a popular …
SportGig Economy Delivery Riders
Many delivery riders work through apps, choosing their own hours and being paid for each job rather than for a set time. Some people see this as flexible, …
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