The IELTS Writing Task 2 tests your ability to present ideas clearly, support arguments, and demonstrate proper English grammar and vocabulary. Here are four practice topics from Cambridge 20, along with their prompts. You can use these to practice structuring essays, developing arguments, and expressing opinions.
Test 1: Clean Water
Topic: Access to clean water
Access to clean water is a basic human right. Therefore every home should have a water supply that is provided free of charge. Do you agree or disagree?
Tips for writing:
- Introduce why clean water is essential.
- Present arguments for or against providing free water at home.
- Support your points with examples or statistics if possible.
Test 2: Long Summer Holidays
Topic: School vacations
In many countries, primary and secondary schools close for two months or more in the summer holidays. What is the value of long school holidays? What are the arguments in favour of shorter school holidays?
Tips for writing:
- Discuss both advantages and disadvantages of long summer breaks.
- Consider academic, social, and family perspectives.
- Conclude with your opinion based on evidence.
Test 3: Stopping Flying
Topic: Air travel and the environment
Some people have decided to reduce the number of times they fly every year or to stop flying altogether. Do you think the environmental benefits of this development outweigh the disadvantages for individuals and businesses?
Tips for writing:
- Explain how reducing flights helps the environment.
- Discuss the impact on individuals, businesses, and the global economy.
- Balance environmental concerns with practical drawbacks.
Test 4: Global Fashion Trends
Topic: Fashion and global influence
Many aspects of the way people dress today are influenced by global fashion trends. How has global fashion become such a strong influence on people’s lives? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Tips for writing:
- Analyze reasons behind the spread of global fashion (media, social networks, celebrities).
- Consider cultural, social, and economic implications.
- State your opinion and justify whether this influence is positive or negative.
Practicing these four topics will help you improve your essay structure, argument development, and vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2.
