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IELTS two-part question essay topics
A two-part question asks two direct questions. Answer each one fully, usually one per body paragraph. Answering only one of them limits your Task Response score.
Get a random Task 2 question
- EconomyWhy the wealth gap is growingIn many countries the gap between rich and poor people is growing.
- WorkEmployers training staffMany employers are reluctant to train their staff because workers often leave for better jobs.
- TransportCycling to work or schoolMany city councils are trying to encourage more people to cycle to work or school.
- CitiesMoving from villages to citiesMore and more people are leaving villages and small towns to live in large cities.
- CitiesSaving water in citiesIn many cities, the demand for water is rising and supplies are under pressure.
- EconomyEnglish in global businessEnglish is increasingly used as the language of international business, even in countries where it is not the first language.
- EducationCompetition for universityMany young people see a university degree as essential for a good career, and competition for places is growing.
- WorkLong hours culture at workIn many companies, employees are expected to work very long hours and take little holiday.
- CitiesCrowded citiesCities in many parts of the world are becoming increasingly crowded.
- CitiesWeak community spiritIn big cities, many people do not know their neighbours and feel little connection to the local community.
- TransportRural public transportPublic transport in rural areas is often much worse than in cities, which affects people's lives.
- SocietyLoneliness in big citiesIn many large cities, a growing number of people say they feel lonely, even though they live surrounded by others.
- FamilyHaving fewer childrenIn many countries, people are choosing to have fewer children than in the past. Why is this happening? What problems might this cause for society?
- FamilyWorking in the family businessMany young people are expected to work in their family's business rather than choose their own career. Why might this be the case? Is this a positive or negative situation?
- CrimeRising teenage crimeIn many countries, more and more crimes are committed by teenagers.
- CrimeCrime and unemploymentIn many places, crime rates are higher in areas with high unemployment. Why do you think this is the case? What can be done to reduce crime in these areas?
- MediaWhy fake news spreadsFalse information spreads easily through social media and often influences people's opinions.
- MediaInfluencers vs expertsMany people now trust advice from social media influencers more than that of experts. Why might this be the case? Is this a positive or negative development?
- CultureLearning about other culturesMore people are learning about cultures other than their own. Why do you think this is happening? What are the benefits of learning about other cultures?
- GlobalisationCheaper international travelThe cost of international travel has fallen and more people are travelling abroad. What are the reasons for this? What effects does this have?
- GlobalisationSmall farmers vs agribusinessIn developing countries, small farmers find it hard to compete with large international agricultural companies.
- SportDoping in sportThe use of banned drugs by athletes to improve performance is a growing problem in professional sport.
- SportLess active lifestylesIn many countries, people take less exercise than they did in the past. Why is this the case? What can be done to encourage people to be more active?
- FoodCooking shows and food blogsCooking programmes and food blogs have become very popular. Why is this the case? Do you think it has had a positive effect on people's eating habits?
- LanguageAdults giving up on languagesMany adults want to learn a foreign language but give up. Why is this the case? What can be done to make language learning more effective?
- TourismTraditions staged for touristsIn some places, local traditions are changed to entertain tourists. Why does this happen? Is it a positive or negative development?
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