Vinod Gambtoo’s IELTS Speaking Conjecture, Part 1

  1. Describe a uniform you wear (at your school or company).
    • When you wear it
    • Who bought it for you
    • What it looks like
    • How you feel about it
  • I don’t need to wear a uniform these days
  • But I recount (=tell, narrate) my school days when it was mandatory to put on the school uniform
  • The fundamental idea of the uniform is to treat everyone equally
  • Some companies have made regulation of putting on the uniform for a variety of reasons
  • Some large corporations (=company, firm) believe the uniform decreases the dress-based discrimination (=prejudice, bias) at the workplace
  • My parents bought me the uniform every year. And the fun part was that I knew that it was going to be the same every year, but getting rid of the old one offered renewed joy
  • I always loved my school uniform. It had a combination of blue and white
  • We had to wear blue pants (X = not pant) and a white shirt
  • More than the uniform, I was always fascinated (=strongly attracted) by the belt. It was a stripe-designed strap with the emblem (=symbol, figure) of our school on the plate style buckle
  • I also loved our school logo on the shirt. It was beautifully designed with a lamp and Goddess Saraswati in it
  • On a sports day, usually on Saturdays, we had to put on a round-necked blue T-shirt with grey-colored sweat pants
  • While talking to you right now about my school uniform, it takes me back to my golden days of life
  • School time is something that you treasure (=cherish) forever, and If I had an opportunity to ask for something now, I would certainly like to have those golden days back.
  • We all looked amazingly handsome and beautiful in our school uniform. No matter how pricey clothes that we buy now and put them on, but there’s nothing like our uniform. It was simple and attractive. Maybe it’s linked to our school time, and then we were quite young and restless hence, with the uniform, so many things are attached
  • Some friends of mine hated to put on the uniform, citing it was compulsion imposed on us because we looked upon students who were going to college or university at that time, and they were exempted from this code of wearing
  • But if I talk about myself, I never shared such a mindset then. On the contrary, I enjoyed it. Yet I’ve my old uniform of the year 10 as reminiscences (=memory, recollection), and I take it out, at times, to relive those moments. So, it comes down to how people think on this point

Follow-up questions:

  1. Why should students wear uniforms?

Wearing a school uniform is a symbol of identification and pride, and it also makes a personality for a school. It’s the imperative piece of being a school student. It also teaches students to take pride in their appearance. Wearing a uniform is all about being in the organization or school together

2. On what occasions should people wear uniforms?

It depends upon who (m) you’re associated with, and you need to size up the occasion (that) you will be attending. Otherwise, you don’t feel confident if you’re over or underdressed, so we’ve to ensure that we’re dressed in an outfit that is the right to the occasion. For example, in a school, the uniform gives a sense of togetherness, and we all look good, no matter whether we are thin or doughy (=fat) or whatever. When we grow up and start our career, some corporations have a dress code. You’ve no choice but to align with the philosophy and policy of the corporation. In some cases, when we’ve got an annual meeting or any roadshow for promotion, we wear uniforms.

3. Should companies ask employees about the design of their uniforms?

Well, my answer is ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ both because there could be several suggestions if asked. Imagine a corporation which has over 1,000 employees, people will pour in ideas and recommendations, and everyone has his own preference. In that case, it’s slightly tricky to narrow down the final decision. But this exercise can be used for gathering ideas and preferences and anything that comes close to the conclusion of the management, that dress code should be taken.

4. Can people tell someone’s personality by his or her clothes?

Of course, yes. I believe that your clothing sense reflects your personality and, in some cases, your royalty, too. People get attracted to those who have a neat and sharp clothing sense. And it also depends upon an occasion. I’ve seen people wearing a pair of jeans and a round-necked T-shirt while attending any wedding event, and they certainly look horrible in that. It’s tacky (=tasteless, gaudy). At the same time, when somebody is dressed in an appropriate outfit grabs the attention of the audience.

5. What color would catch people’s attention most?

It’s subjective. For some boys and men, they don’t imagine trying colors other than black, white, navy blue, and beige. And bright colors look good on girls. In fact, I feel jealous because women have a plethora of colors to choose for their attires, whereas boys have no such choices. It’s sad (with a smiling face).

2. Describe a special day that made you happy.

  • When it was
  • What the occasion was
  • Why it made you happy
  • There are countless moments and days when I felt happy
  • In fact, I’m grateful for something every day as I listen to my inner child
  • The special day that I recount (=tell, narrate) now is my last birthday. Usually, people love their birthdays, but any birthday which brings a surprise is incredible
  • That’s what happened to me last year
  • I had been thinking of buying the latest iPhone over the months, but it was beyond my budget
  • Additionally, I didn’t want to force my parents to buy me an expensive phone, so what I did was I started to save some money every month
  • Yet I was short of around ₹30,000, and it was a big amount for me to manage
  • I don’t know how my parents observed my longing (=wish, yearning) for a new phone, but I’m sure they kept their eyes on this wish of mine
  • I remember this surprise because it gave me a smile of the century on my face
  • I got up in the morning and was waiting for my cup of tea to be served
  • Instead of tea, my mommy hugged me and gave me the gift-wrapped box
  • I asked her what was in it. She said, “you open it up and see yourself”
  • And guess what! It was iPhone XR. I couldn’t believe that for a while, but it was happening
  • The thing that I had been longing for (=wanting, wishing, desiring) quite some time was right there in front of my eyes
  • I felt I was on cloud 9 (=state of perfect happiness) and thanked my parents for that incredible gift
  • I know it’s something beyond my imagination and never knew that my parents were so much attentive to my wishes
  • Anyway (X= not anyways), parents are always there to cheer your special moments

Follow-up questions:

  1. What are some things that made you feel happy?

There are many things, in fact, that makes me feel great many times. Whenever any positive piece of news that breaks for which you have been waiting for so long is one of them. I cheer when Team India wins the match, or also I feel elated (=happy) at the playing opportunity for either an indoor or outdoor game. I personally believe that fulfilling hobbies bring unimaginable (=incredible, unbelievable) joy to your life.

2. Do you think artistic activities can make people happy? (Why/Why not)

I’m not sure about it because it varies from person to person. I’m the guy who is not overly inclined to artistic activities, so it doesn’t matter to me. But I’ve seen a lot of people enjoying themselves when they employ themselves in creative activities. There’s a classic case in my family. My sister lives in a world of arts, so she finds tremendous joy whenever she gets associated with artistic activities.

3. Do you think people who have more talent are happier than others? (Why/Why not)

I don’t agree with this notion. Happiness has nothing to do with talent (=ability). It’s all about how you see your life and try to extract pleasure (=happiness) from small things around you. For example, I feel much convinced when I feed animals, but my neighbor, who is a renowned doctor, abhors (=hates) it. He might be feeling happy with other activities. I’ve also seen talented people being grumpy (=bad-tempered, waxy), and at the same time, people who live by the road enjoy better than us on many occasions.

4. Do you think money makes people happy?

My answer is ‘Yes’ and ‘No’ both. Money is not everything but not lesser than anything, too. That’s a paradoxical (=contradictory, incongruous) statement, but it’s true for sure. Life becomes beautiful with money, but it also becomes trash if you’re deprived (=strip, deny) of sound health. So, money does buy medicines but unable to get your health on many occasions. Again, I’ve seen the happiest people with lesser wealth and the most frustrated with riches on this earth.

5. Are the things or events that make people happy today the same as several decades ago?

Of course, the definition of happiness, excitement, surprise, and other emotional triggers remains unchanged. Maybe the mode, nature, and sources of joy might have changed with time. For example, people in the past enjoyed a cup of tea in the garden, and today they go to a cafe.

6. Why do people feel happy when they are with members of their family?

By all means (=of course), they’re your family, and for every moment, whether we’re happy or not, they stand by us. Another important aspect is that we don’t need to fake anything with them. Whether we are good or bad, they love us untiringly and incessantly (=regularly, constantly, endlessly). Such unconditional love ties the members of the family. To me, the family is first!

7. What are some examples of family activities that make people happy?

I guess there are many family activities that make our lives whole. A cozy dinner with your folks or maybe going on holiday with them or could be with them for watching just a movie are some of the activities. I personally like a candlelit dinner with my girlfriend at the beachfront restaurant, which provides the perfect end to the day.

8. Some people say the happiest time in people’s lives is the period when they are at school. Do you agree?

There’s no doubt about it because we’re young and restless with no external concerns of career-making or sustaining any type of relationship or so. In school time, we enjoyed small things which seem to be inconsequential (=unimportant, insignificant) if we think about them right now, but that’s the all joy that we had. We never judged anyone or were judged by our friends, too. We seized every moment and enjoyed life more even if when something went wrong, it didn’t impact much the way it happens now. I wish I could reclaim those golden days of my life now, but it’s just not possible.

9. Do young and older people find happiness in the same things?

Yes, I think so. Some moments and activities bring the same joy regardless of your age and other factors. I can give you an excellent example to substantiate (=confirm, prove) my agreement. My dad, mommy, sister, and I play Ludo game on the tablet, and you’ll be surprised to see the intensity, excitement, and happiness when we beat each other. We all become kids once again and fight hard as they do so.

3. Describe a time you were sleepy but had to stay awake.

  • When it happened
  • Why you were sleepy
  • Why you had to stay awake
  • And how you stayed awake
  • Sleep has been called ‘force multiplier’. It means it can worsen or enhance your performance
  • I personally cannot stand the sleep deprivation (=hardship, loss) and need at least eight-hour sleep to stay in the right mood
  • Usually, I ensure to have deep sound sleep, but there are occasions where I couldn’t keep up the same
  • I remember the night before the paper of Math (X= not Maths) during the Year 12 exam. I always struggled with calculus in my school time, so needed additional time to cover my study
  • As I said that the course of math always scared me, so it was boring (=tedious). And you know that when you do some boring job, it makes you feel drowsy and uninterested
  • So it happened that night particularly. I had to cover my pending portion of the exam preparation, and I felt sleepy
  • I hated that moment, but I knew that if I hadn’t stayed awake, I would have to pay a heavy price for it
  • I had no choice but to stay awake at any cost
  • Then what! People have their own ways to stay awake; some have energy drinks, and others believe having tea or coffee
  • I don’t know how far it is true that such beverages containing caffeine help you stay awake, but it certainly doesn’t work for me
  • If I’ve to stay awake for some reason, I will rather watch some interesting videos on YouTube or maybe music also
  • So, during that hard time, I watched any song of my choice and got charged and got back to my studies, and then whenever I felt sleepy, I repeated the same

Follow-up questions:

  1. On what occasions do people need to stay awake even when they are tired?

There could be several occasions where you need to stay awake even if you hate to do so. When we’ve to write an exam, it’s an integral part, and I’m sure most students go through the same situation. When we grow up and are burdened heavily with some backlog of jobs, it takes away our sleep in order to meet the deadline. And the worst of all is when you have unwanted visitors at home, you don’t want to spare some time for them, but you do so just to sustain the relationship.

2. How do they keep awake when they are tired?

People have ways to keep themselves awake. The most common hack (=strategy, technique) on which people rely on is to consume any drink that contains caffeine. For example, tea, coffee, or energy drink. I’ve seen some people washing their faces with soda. They get a kind of instant zip (=oomph, vitality, vigor, verve) in their mood. I don’t know whether it works or not, but people do that. And there are some people who do some job that interests them the most. Like reading a novel or maybe watching some exciting series on Netflix or YouTube.

3. Why do people feel tired a lot nowadays?

Well! It’s not about these days or yesteryears. People get fatigued (=tired) owing to physical tiredness or psychological reasons. For example, students participate in sports competitions or play outdoor games, which certainly takes their toll because of excessive playing or working out exhaust them. While people who work go through extraordinary pressure of many things at the workplace, along with their own external concerns. The steep competition in the business or at the workplace keeps everyone on the toe forever, and it impacts adversely on their health.

4. What kinds of people lack sleep?

There could be many kinds! Some people work globally from their home place, and the time difference breaks their regular cycle of sleep. The classic example is people working with call centers. There are some people who remain under pressure at the workplace, or even those people who are under constant threat of losing their jobs in this competitive world are deprived of the sound sleep. Some people also suffer from insomnia, and that’s the worst thing we could expect. There could be many others, too.

4. Describe an experience when you played an indoor game with others.

  • What you played
  • Who you played with
  • Why you played
  • How you felt about it
  • I play both indoor and outdoor games
  • It all depends upon the opportunity and time availability, and on some occasions, it’s all about the company of friends or members of the family with who you are
  • I personally love the game of Chess as it is a fascinating (=exciting, interesting) indoor game; usually, it’s played with two players
  • But today I’m going to talk about another game, which is popular these days
  • It’s Ludo, and it’s also known as Boardgame
  • I went to my cousin’s place some days back, and happened to meet his friends there, too
  • We were just killing time by gossiping, and one of his friends recommended to play Ludo game
  • First, we decided to play on the cell phone, but later on, decided to change it to an iPad
  • I find this game exciting, and for every move of your token, you need to use reasoning to beat your rival. You cannot roll your tokens randomly or without giving a thought. If you do so, you may lose
  • This game is played with two to four players, and we decided to team up and played in the partnership of two each
  • So, whoever brings all four tokens to the finishing square wins
  • This game: if played with attention, it brings all sorts of emotional triggers, such as fear, excitement, jubilation, regret, and so on
  • My partner and I were the winners in the end. However, we narrowly defeated our opponents because one of their partners had only one token left to the finish, and luckily we had two sixes, and my partner made it

Follow-up questions:

  1. Do you play any indoor games?

Sometimes I play indoor games, but I rather (=instead) prefer to play outdoor games more. I personally believe that the game must include physical efforts (energy busting) along with skills. For example, I get more satisfaction if I happen to play tennis, badminton, or cricket.

2. Do you prefer to play indoor games or outdoor games?

Outdoor games, any day. That will be the first preference. You get a different kind of joy when you play in the ground, field, or court. And, it also gives a workout to the body.

3. What indoor games did you play when you were a child?

I don’t remember all, but yes, there were games such as playing cards, especially Rummy, Ludo, Candy Crush, Indoor Bowling, and Puzzles, among others. Apart from these, we also played Indoor Obstacle Course and Follow the Leader.

4. Is there any particular indoor game that you liked (when you were a child?

I enjoyed playing all the games. If I have to single out my favorite one, I will go with ‘Road Rash’ on Xbox. There is a particular reason for it because you play it with simulation. It means as if you feel driving the bike, cutting your wave, kicking or getting kicked by your opponent, and so on. It’s really entertaining, especially when you come down from the cliff, staying in the altitude for seconds, and land your bike. You feel as if it were happening to you.

5. What sorts of indoor games do children play now?

I’m not sure about it, because I don’t have any kid in my family at the moment. But let me guess. I guess they play games on Xbox yet. There are countless gaming apps, but frankly speaking, I’m unable to think of any other game. Maybe I never thought of being asked such a question ever.

6. Do you play video games? And what kinds of video games do you like to play?

Yes, and I love it. If I had an opportunity right now, I wouldn’t wait for it. Car Racing and Road Rash are my favorite ones. There could be many other games, but I’ve no idea, I just play those games that offer me pleasure, and these are the games that make me excited and playful.

7. Is it good for young people to play video games?

I don’t see anything wrong with it. I know some people consider it (as) a bad habit, but I think otherwise for a variety of reasons. Video games make players think and make the judgment on their next moves, so it’s like applying your critical thinking. It is fun, isn’t (ain’t) it? In most games, you need to think rapidly and make your moves. If you fail to make the right decision, you face a defeat. In a nutshell, that prepares you at the elementary level to make the right decision, which can be helpful in the career later on.

8. What qualities should a team leader have?

Well! There is a list of qualities for team leaders, but it’s hard to have a composed team leader these days. I think the team leader should be, first of all, a clear communicator since he has to assign duties to team members and get things done on time. Furthermore, he should be confident for his team and patient when things go wrong. In many cases, team leaders wear a lofty (=high, elevated) ego and prejudice (=bias, discrimination), which kills the tempo of the team and impacts productivity. I personally believe that he should be fair, kind, and cooperative. If I’m in a fix (situation), he should roll his sleeves and stand by me.

9. Is teamwork important to individuals?

Yes, it is. In fact, it is of great significance. We must not forget that teamwork makes large corporations. Teamwork means professional diversity. Coordinated efforts give a sense of accomplishment and satisfaction to each team member. In some cases, team members learn from each other and develop skills. It teaches several professional traits without which it’s hard to make progress in the career.

10. What do you think about people spending too much time on computer games?

Anything too much always brings disappointment of any sort. I don’t know what drives people to spend their precious time on computer games excessively. It’s an addiction – an unwanted one for sure. I believe many people lose an opportunity to experience this beautiful world outside the four walls. It should be avoided.

5. Talk about something that you borrowed from your friend

  • What it was
  • When you borrowed
  • From whom you borrowed it
  • What you did with it
  • Why you borrowed it
  • No matter how old you are, you can keep lending or borrowing something somewhere in your life
  • I guess it’s an integral part of our society. But it may not go well with everyone
  • I remember having borrowed the motorbike of my neighbor once when I was in the final year of my college
  • I remember that incident pretty well now. It was drizzling on that day, and I guess it’s the weekend
  • My friends called and invited me to go to a movie. It wasn’t planned, but all of a sudden a couple of friends decided about this and connected each other.
  • My motorbike was with the workshop for a regular mechanical service, and I didn’t have any vehicle to go and join them. I kept thinking about my options on how to come and go there, and eventually, I decided to borrow the motorbike from my neighbor for this friends’ gathering cum movie watching
  • My neighbor, Aakash, recently bought KTM 200 Duke motorbike then. This motorbike was amazing, and I had a test drive of it on varied roads before. The engine had a great punch, and I guess its attractive design fails to age yet
  • So, the joy of meeting with friends for a movie and driving the motorbike in the drizzle makes this event unforgettable for me. In fact, when I recollect this incident, I cannot fail to remember those crazy stunts that I performed on this motorbike. In fact, I shouldn’t have done that because I had borrowed it from someone, but you know when you are very young, you become restless and less thoughtful about certain etiquette. Anyway (X= not anyways), this question took me back to the memory lane of my school time

Follow-up questions:

  1. What do Indian people usually borrow?

In my country, well, it’s hard to think that what people borrow from one another. I guess it all depends upon the person and the way he has decided to live. For example, I’ve seen some people who believe not to lend or borrow. At the same time, there are people who cannot resist (=refrain from) this habit. I guess people borrow everything and all things from books to clothes to cars to motorbikes and even money or academic notes, too. I think people do that in any society.

2. Does borrowing things make people uncomfortable?

In most cases, I reckon it makes people uncomfortable as nobody likes to share his stuff with anyone except when someone is very close to him. I personally believe that it’s not a good habit, especially some people aren’t (=ain’t) expressive, and they don’t like to say ‘no’ to them, but at the same time, from deep inside they reject this idea. So, my point is why to make people uncomfortable for this undisciplined act.

3. What to do if you don’t want to lend something to others?

Don’t ask me this question because I’m very much infamous for being straight to my dealings with people. I’ve my ways to decline people’s requests on borrowing. I tell them in a straightforward manner, and my response will be, “Buddy, we’re friends and I respect and understand you and your need. But I never lend any of my stuff to anyone because, on many occasions, it leaves a bitter experience to either party. So, in this case, I’ve no option but to decline your request.”

4. Why do people dislike lending valuable items?

There could be many reasons for it. I think when you help someone by lending something, it may lead to forming a bad habit of dependency. Some people have a habit of relying on others for all their needs. In some cases, the lender faces inconvenience also. For example, if I happen to lend my motorbike to someone, I will face inconvenience in commuting. And, that’s the primary reason that people don’t like to lend their valuables.

5. What would you do if your friends didn’t give back what they borrowed from you?

Well! It all depends on the value of the stuff. If it is highly expensive, then I might pressure him to take my stuff back. If it has no high value, I may let it go and will never lend him anything to him.

6. Why do some people borrow things instead of buying them?

As I said, some people form a nasty habit of borrowing all the time. They are misers and don’t like to spend on themselves. That’s cheap, but what can we do in such a case? Nothing, I guess. You cannot change the habits of people, and they will remain as they are, no matter how many efforts we put in to explain to them. They’re just stubborn in wrong aspirations and demands.

7. What would you do if people don’t return the money they borrowed from you?

First things first, I will request him to give my money back. And if he is unmoved to my request, I may talk to his family for helping me get my money. If I fail here, I will involve people in acquaintance to pressure and convince him to get my money. When all the options are exhausted, I may take serious steps against him.

8. Why are people embarrassed when they borrow money from others?

One word answer is self-esteem. I reckon most people in the world don’t prefer to borrow from others unless they are in deep financial trouble. Self-esteem is invisible in the form, but it impacts us a great deal. It’s like a humiliation for sensitive people, and they feel uncomfortable and embarrassed.

9. Do you often borrow things in your daily life?

I try not to borrow anything ever in my life. Borrowing will be the last resort for me when all the options are gone. But this was not the case while I was studying. When I was in school, we borrowed all possible things from friends. But that’s a different time. For example, I took academic assistance from friends wherever I couldn’t cope with (X= not cope up with) certain parts of my studies. These all things are considered acceptable, but once you’re grown up, we’ve several external and internal concerns, and we keep negotiating them for ourselves and family. As long as you’re young and studying, I guess we can offer some leeway (=scope, space, headway), but certainly not when we’re grown up.

10. What things you usually borrow from your neighbor?

Uhhm, not much, in fact, nothing. Yes, once I borrowed the motorbike from my neighbor as mentioned in my previous question. That’s the only incident of borrowing that I recollect now.

11. How do you like when some people borrow money from others?

I don’t see it as a good habit and advise people not to burden themselves on someone for their needs. If there’s a dire (=desperate, critical) situation, they can certainly think of borrowing but not more often. The reason behind this is because everybody is mired (=entangled, trapped) with his own budget and responsibilities these days. It’s hard for people to help others.

12. What kind of problems are associated with borrowing things?

On many occasions, what I’ve seen is that it leaves a bitter experience. For example, when we lend something to someone, they don’t return our stuff on time or sometimes they damage and return it. As far as financial assistance goes, there is a chance that you may lose your money in a relationship. When you try to get your money back, it kills the bonhomie (=sweet) relationship that you’ve developed over the years. In some cases, it leads to the exchanging of unspeakable arguments also.

13. What is your opinion about the phenomenon of borrowing in society?

As long as we’re young, it’s all acceptable to borrow, or to lend, or to even share your things. These days, I’ve noticed that the moment you become financially strong, some people, or friends, or your relative will flock around you for benefits. It’s a dangerous phenomenon that’s emerging in our society. At the same time, I also believe in charity. If you’re financially strong and could help others – maybe, in the form of lending in the beginning and you know that it won’t be returned if there is the case – you should move ahead and help the needy in your acquaintance.

How to write the IELTS Essay

The IELTS test takers face the challenge of how to start and end an essay. A good start is an essential part of the Writing section. The excellent start infuses brand-new confidence and brings the desired outcome in the form of a high band score. 

It is common to see students scratching their heads the moment they think or start responding to the task. In many cases, students are unable to think critically and waste their precious time gathering ideas. Of course, that is not the strategy for them to employ at the last moment. 

I always believe that writing an essay is an art. It is not a hard asking for sure. At the same time, students need to learn it from the basic. Right from the beginning until the end, it has to be cohesive with the right linkers. All sentences and paragraphs must present a unity of thoughts and correspond to each other’s purpose. 

Considering how significant the first and last paragraph is, I thought of presenting model answers of four topics: the first and last paragraph of the different essay category types.

The first paragraph contains the paraphrasing of the topic statement after analyzing the critical elements of parameters. Moreover, the last paragraph is more or less a follow-through and reiteration of the first paragraph. 

1) “Discussion” question 

Nowadays, many students choose to study abroad at the university level. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of studying abroad, and give your own opinion about whether it is a good idea.

Introduction and conclusion:

It is undoubtedly a new trend that many students choose to study at university overseas. It is true that students making this decision face some difficulties. However, I believe that studying abroad is advantageous for many reasons.

In conclusion, I believe that studying in a foreign country is a positive development as long as students manage to overcome the struggles they are likely to face.

2) “Opinion” question 

When choosing a job, the salary is the most important consideration. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Introduction and conclusion:

More and more people choose their jobs based on a salary package. I personally disagree with the idea that money is the only reason for them while choosing a career because it does not supersede many other vital factors.

In conclusion, while there is no denying that the salary size influences people’s professional choice, I believe that other motivators vastly outweigh money.

3) “Problem and Solution” question 

The problem of litter on the streets of many towns and cities is getting worse. Why do we see more litter on our streets, and what can be done about it?

Introduction and conclusion:

The menace of increasing amounts of rubbish is seen in many public places these days. There are many causes of this problem, and I would argue that education is the only solution to this problem.

In conclusion, litter is mainly caused by dumping rubbish by careless people and the lack of bins, and I believe that educating people for the same is the best way to solve this issue.

4) “Two-part” question 

These days more fathers stay at home and take care of their children while mothers go out to work. What could be the reasons for this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?

Introduction and conclusion:

Men are indeed more likely to take the role of househusband, while more women are stepping out of the home to earn livelihood in their families. There could be several reasons for this, and I consider it to be an entirely positive trend in society.

In conclusion, men and women’s role is constantly changing in the family due to broader changes in society, and I believe that these developments are prudent.

IELTS Model Answer

Nowadays shopping has become a new favorite pastime for young people. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to encourage young people to develop other hobbies?

Answer: Visual merchandising was never so strong than what it is today, and smart corporations create unwanted demand for all. Shopping has indeed become a pastime during leisure time, especially for the youth. However, it is a matter of concern as this interest is replacing their traditional hobbies. This essay examines both reasons and suggestions for this phenomenon.

Unwanted consumerism is on the rise these days. There are several reasons attributed to this unwanted shopping, which has become a pastime for young people. Firstly, visual merchandising, coupled with attractive discounted prices on stuff, has lured customers exceedingly. This has fuelled unwanted consumerism. Secondly, many young people are idle, and they happen to visit stores casually. This casual trip becomes a trap and a habit for them, as they get fascinated by the commercial set-ups, inviting them to buy unwanted stuff. Lastly, easy online access with inflated credit limits is also an influencer. Most young people have smartphones and bank cards. Hence, buying any stuff means going through the process of ‘click and pay,’ and the order arrives on the following day.

Gone are the days, when the youth took an interest in hobbies, such as music, arts, playing sports and gardening, among others. This trend needs to be arrested. Coordinated efforts of parents, schools, public advisories, and self-realization can arrest this severe issue. Together they can make the youth understand the significance of hobbies in life. Otherwise, they will run into debt and waste their precious time. Parents should engage their children at an early age with different types of activities and hobbies.

In conclusion, it is hard for young people to resist consumerism. The only solution is to enlighten them of importance to hobbies. (283 words)

IELTS Model Answer

Question: Some people think that secondary or high school students should be taught how to use money management, as it is an important life skill.

Do you agree or disagree with the statement?

Answer: It is believed that young students should be trained for all life skills, including money management that could help them succeed in their career at a later stage. It is as essential as other skills in formative years of school-going children. I completely agree with the statement.

Teaching students the value of money and its management is of paramount importance for schools, and it offers several benefits. Firstly, if young students develop financial skills at an early stage, they will be ready for the financial challenges of adulthood. Secondly, teaching children the basics, such as how to save, spend and budget will establish good money habits for life. By this teaching, students will understand where the money comes from and how it is earned. Lastly, students armed with such crucial learning will become more responsible and pragmatic toward their careers and possibly never be a burden on the state. For example, they could stay out of debt during school years and then after.

In contrast, there is undoubtedly a resistance to the idea of making students learn financial skills during school time. Critics opine that the life skill in question can be taught at the later stage during undergraduate studies. Or students who are keen on learning money management can take a specialized finance course so that other students are not mandated to learn it by force. Furthermore, they also argue that students are too young to understand the nitty-gritty of financial skills at a young age.

All in all, I completely support the idea of educating children about money management life skill despite the popular perspective of many naysayers. Children of today can become prosperous only when they are smart with financial management. (284 words)

Infinitive and Gerund Construction – 10 Minute English Learning

Some verbs may take either gerund or infinitive:

Advise

We use the infinitive when the person concerned is mentioned:

  • Thomas advised me to apply for this position.
  • The coach recommends students to read this chapter well before taking the exam.
  • They do not allow us to park in front of the gate.

But we use the gerund if the person is not mentioned:

  • Thomas advised applying for this position.
  • The coach recommends reading this chapter well before taking the exam.
  • They do not allow parking in front of the gate.

Agree

The verb ‘agree’ takes the infinitive, and the same rule applies to its antonym ‘refuse’.

Jay agreed to help them financially, but his mother refused to do so.

But ‘agree to’+ possessive adjective takes the gerund:

She agreed to her leaving early on Thursday. (She asked if she could leave early on Thursday and she was allowed).

Begin

With ‘begin’, you can use either the infinitive or the gerund without any difference in meaning. However, the infinitive is more usual.

            We began working. / we began to work.

Can/could bear (dislike)

‘Can/could bear’ is chiefly used in the negative sense and takes either the gerund or the infinitive.

            I have been living here for 18 years and cannot bear the thought of leaving.

Cease

            My dog never ceases to amaze me!

            The Parle G ceased manufacturing biscuits this month.

Continue

            You have two options: either you cease your operations or continue to bear losses.

            You have two options: either you cease your operations or continue bearing losses.

Forget

            I always forget to sign out my email account, and that is nasty of me.

He never forgets putting anyone down, and that is the reason, people distance themselves from him.

Hate

            I hate to be a bearer of this ugly news.

            She hates walking slowly.

Intend

            We intend to sell this house.

            We intend selling this house.

Like

            She usually does not like to go to the theater.

            She usually does not like going to the theater.

Love

            Alex loves to wind-surf.

            Alex loves wind-surfing.

Mean

When ‘mean’ is used for ‘intend’, it takes the infinitive.

            I mean to clarify this point by attaching this evidence.

When ‘mean’ is used for ‘involve’ (used only with an impersonal subject), it takes the gerund.

My boss is hell-bent over approving this proposal quickly even if it means bending the wisdom of the investment.

Need

“I need you to need me, I love you to love me, I want you to want to me, I am begging you to beg me” – Cheap Trick Song.

Your hair needs cutting.

Prefer

            I prefer walking.

            I prefer to walk.

Propose

When ‘propose’ is used for ‘intend’, it takes the infinitive.

            We propose to begin this assignment tomorrow.

When ‘propose’ is used for ‘suggest’, it takes the gerund.

            We propose getting your account tallied before leaving the counter.

Recommend

            We recommend students to write an essay every day.

            We recommend writing an essay every day.

Regret

            Samantha regrets spending extravagantly, and now she is broke.

            We regret to inform you that the school will remain closed tomorrow.

Remember

            She remembers having made mistakes in her speech.

            She remembered to post the letters.

Require

            The grass requires cutting.

The grass required to be cut. All students are required to take a diagnostic test before they commence their classes.

Start

            The moment her dad yelled, she started crying.

            The moment her dad yelled, she started to cry.

Stop

            Stop complaining and get to work.

            We had to stop to ask the way.

Try

            They tried hard to hush this matter, but could not succeed.

            They tried hushing this matter, but could not succeed.

Used to

            I used to bunk off the school while I was in grade 9.

            I am used to living in a cold climate.

Want

            Do you want to convince him over this issue? He seems adamant.

            The plants want watering on every other day.

IELTS Writing Topics So Far in August 2019

Academic Training:

  1. Some people think that zoos are cruel and all the zoos should be closed. However, others think zoos are useful to protect rare animals. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  2. Some people believe that sport is nothing but a leisure activity. Others believe that it is important in our society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  3. In many countries, mainly tourists, but not local people, visit museums and historical sites. Why does this happen? What can be done to attract more local people to visit these places?
  4. Some people believe that to be successful in sports one needs a natural ability, while others think that hard work and practice can make them successful. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

General Training:

  1. Some people say drug companies have the responsibility to spend money on researching medicine to help poorer countries. Others think that the main responsibility of drug companies is making money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
  2. Nowadays shopping has become a new favorite pastime for young people. What are the reasons for this? What can be done to encourage young people to develop other hobbies?
  3. Some people believe that entertainers are more important than scientists. Support the reasons and examples from your experience.
  4. Some people believe that technology has made a man more social. Others believe that it is opposite. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Did you know?

You could lose your mark on a very basic mistake. Take a look at:

Most times, your question paper reads part of the answer, such as $…, %…, km…, inches… and so on. In that case, you just need to write the number.

For example,

Incorrect answer: $10

Correct answer: 10

Subject-Verb Agreement – 10 Minute English Learning

Agreement of the verb with the subject is a basic understanding while making any sentence. Students generally know this basic rule of grammar, but in this chapter, I am going to discuss one exception, which is worthwhile to learn it.

a)  If two subjects combined denotes one idea, we use the verb which may be the Singular; as,

  • Thrill and safety goes hand in hand with this car.
  • The long and the short of the matter is this proposal may not have any positive fruition.
  • Slow and steady wins the race. That’s what we were taught by the moral story of the hare and the tortoise.
  • Early to bed and early to rise makes a man healthy, wealthy and wise.
  • The horse and carriage is at the door now.
  • Bread and butter is wholesome. Bread and butter is all she takes for breakfast.
  • Subhas Chandra Bose, the great nationalist and leader, is no more with us.
  • Love and hate is a part of human behavior.
  • Rice and curry is my favorite dish for sure.
  • The law and order in town is under control now.
  • Stay away from this parliamentarian. His power and influence is on the rise.

b)  In some cases, two nouns are joined by words/phrases, such as with, besides, as well as, together with, no less than. It also expresses one idea; as,

  • Gold, as well as silver, is a precious metal.
  • The rich as well as the poor takes part in this exercise.
  • No one, besides him, knows how to deal with such situations.
  • Mark my words; your father, not you, has created this gigantic empire of wealth.
  • Sheila, together with other friends of mine, is working on this project at the moment.

Passive Voice – 10 Minute Grammar

The sentence formation of Simple Present Tense follows:

  Active and Passive Active and Passive
1st Person I give = I am given We give = We are given
2nd Person You give = You are given You give = You are given
  He gives = He is given  
3rd Person She gives = She is given They give = They are given
  It gives = It is given  

The sentence formation of Simple Past Tense Follows

  Active and Passive Active and Passive
1st Person I gave = I was given We gave = We were given
2nd Person You gave = You were given You gave = You were given
  He gave = He was given  
3rd Person She gave = She was given They gave = They were given
  It gave = It was given  

The sentence formation of Simple Future Tense Follows

  Active and Passive Active and Passive
1st Person I shall give = I shall be given We shall give = We shall be given
2nd Person You will give = You will be given You will give = You will be given
  He will give = He will be given  
3rd Person She will give = She will be given They will give = They will be given
  It will give = It will be given  

The postman brings letters. (Active Voice)

Letters are brought by the postman. (Passive Voice)

Uses of Passive Voice:

Passive voice is not much used in our native languages, such as Hindi, Gujarati, Punjabi or any other as it looks awkward when it is translated literally. However, it is a usual practice in the English language to use passive voice.

In the IELTS Academic test, passive voice plays an essential role in Task 1 because of its peculiarity in the usage. It is widely used in it because the doer (agent) becomes inconsequential in the sentence construction. In another way, in most sentences in task one and also in our life, we are not inclined to use the doer (agent) over and over again. For example, my car has been moved!

Now, it does not matter who moved it, or I have no idea who did it.

  1. It is used in colloquial speech. ‘Get’ is sometimes used instead of ‘Be’:

The bottle got (= was) broken.

You will get (= be) demoralized if you keep on watching sad news on TV.

There was a brawl at the party last night, but fortunately, nobody got (= was) hurt.

Some exceptions: get married, get divorced, get dressed, get changed (these expressions are not in the passive voice)

  • Some verbs have two objects. For example, give:

Somebody gave her a rottweiler. (Active Voice)

She was given a rottweiler. A rottweiler was given to her. (Passive Voice)

Somebody gave the cops a tip-off about the raid. (Active Voice)

The cops were given a tip-off about the raid. A tip-off about the raid was given to the cops (Passive Voice)

  • In some sentences, the doer is unimportant, so it is not necessary to mention them:

The rubbish has not been collected from the last two days.

The streets are washed every night, wasting away precious drinking water.

You will be ten printed when you apply for the US visa.

  • In some sentences, the doer is unknown, or you do not know exactly or have forgotten who did this particular action:

The prime minister was assassinated (= by someone, but we have no idea who exactly did this).

The report on my table was taken (= by some team member)

  • Sentences using ‘People’ as a doer in active verbs:

She was suspected of having a hand in glove in this corruption case. (People suspected her of…).

The Gandhi family was believed to be a family of saints, but the reports show otherwise. (People believed the Gandhi family…)

  • When we use the indefinite pronoun ‘one’ in the active sentence:

One believes (that) this sort of counseling is as unacceptable. (Active Voice)

This sort of counseling is believed as unacceptable. (Passive Voice)

You can see the advert of Coco-Cola everywhere. (Active Voice)

The advert of Coco-Cola is seen everywhere. (Passive Voice)

  • In some cases, we tend to be more interested in the action than the person who does it:

The office next door has been bought (by a Mr. Patel).

If we happen to know Mr. Patel, we will use the active form:

Mr. Patel has bought the office next door.

  • It is used to avoid an ungrammatical or awkward sentence. We generally do not change the subject:

Before I reached home, my neighbor took Jericho (dog) to a vet.

would be better expressed:

Before I reached home, Jericho was taken to a vet by my neighbor.

  • It is used to disclaim responsibility for disagreeable announcements. It is preferred for psychological reasons:

The bonus on top of your remuneration is being cancelled/will have to be cancelled this year as the company did not meet the revenue target.

Reduplicative Words – 10 Minute English Learning

airy-fairy (adjective, informal, disapproving): not clear or practical

I like that place because people out there talk about deals, done-deals, projects, achievements, airy-fairy stories among others.

argy-bargy (noun, uncountable, countable, informal): noisy disagreement 

She had a bit of argy-bargy with her boss over the assignments she was overseeing.

artsy-fartsy also arty-farty (adjective, disapproving, informal): connected with, or having an interest in, the arts

She got annoyed at her consistent response to what she called arty-farty or airy-fairy explanations of how things worked.

chit-chat (noun, uncountable, informal): conversation about things that are not important 

Could you please share a minute for a quick chit-chat?

criss-cross (verb): to make a pattern on something with many straight lines that cross each other

The world was crisscrossed by telegraph lines in the last century, including countless cables under the Atlantic Ocean.

dilly-dally (verb, informal): to take too long to do something, go somewhere or make a decision)

Frankly speaking, I am not a morning guy; dilly-dally during my morning rituals.

harum-scarum (adjective): behaving in a wild and sometimes careless way

Jenny was all set out to start running under the new coach, but her jumping was quite harum-scarum.

helter-skelter (adjective, only before noun): done in a hurry and in a way that lacks organization

In this hectic and helter-skelter world, this was an obvious reminder of the kindness and the Smiths have done it again.

higgledy-piggledy (adjective, informal): untidy and lacking any order

I can see a higgledy-piggledy mess of badly-designed streets in my town.

hocus-pocus (noun, uncountable): language or behaviour that is nonsense and is intended to hide the truth from people

I disagree with the belief that psychology is a lot of hocus-pocus. However, my peers see it otherwise.

hoity-toity (adjective, informal): behaving in a way that suggests that you think you are most important than other people; haughty

My first impression for Islanders was the moneyed and hoity-toity, but soon it was proven wrong the moment I started integrating into society.

hotchpotch (noun, singular, informal [North American: hodgepodge]): a number of things mixed together without any particular order or reason 

Being a coach, it becomes hard for me to explain to students who produce an incoherent hotchpotch in writing.

hurly-burly (noun, uncountable): a very noisy and busy activity or situation

She recounts her hurly-burly of school life on the graduation day.

itty-bitty also itsy-bitsy (adjective, informal): very small

Next to that small area, you can see an itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny bathroom.

mumbo jumbo (noun, uncountable, informal, disapproving): language or ceremony that seems complicated and important but is actually without real sense or meaning; nonsense

To her naivety, Rebecca could not comprehend a maze of dense and mumbo jumbo legal terms and ended up losing plenty of money.

mishmash (noun, singular, informal, disapproving): a confused mixture of different kinds of things, styles, etc.

The professor made a total mishmash of points to come to the conclusion, and I think the classroom is yet confused and in bewilderment over this topic.

(the) nitty-gritty (noun, informal, singular): the basic or most important details of an issue or a situation

She missed the nitty-gritty of her assignment which dragged her overall score.

ping-pong (noun, uncountable): table tennis

If your daughter is not good at lawn tennis, put her to ping-pong and she might succeed.

pitter-patter also pit-a-pat (adverb): with quick light steps or beats 

When I heard of you, my heart went pitter-patter across the floor.

shilly-shally (verb, informal, disapproving): to take a long time to do something, especially to make a decision

The Fire Safety department started shilly-shallying about the fire mishap in Surat. Their inertia and incompetence engulfed in over a score of students.

teeny-weeny also teensy-weensy (adjective, informal): very small

Next to that small area, you can see an itsy-bitsy, teeny-weeny bathroom.

tittle-tattle (noun, uncountable, informal, disapproving): unimportant talk, usually not true, about other people and their lives; gossip

I reckon the gossip surrounding her love affair with Jason is just that – idle tittle-tattle.

touchy-feely (adjective, informal, disapproving):  expressing emotion too openly

It is unwise for you to get all touchy-feely with your own emotions at the workplace because your co-workers may give you a verbal hug for a while, but they may take advantage of it later on.

wishy-washy (adjective, informal, disapproving): not having clear or firm ideas or beliefs

The right wingers have run over those wishy-washy neoliberals in all parts of the world.

Articles – 10 Minute Grammar

  • We generally do not use ‘The’ before abstract nouns unless they are described in a particular sense:
    1. Men respect life and fear death. (abstract noun)
    1. The death of his father shattered the entire family. (used in a particular sense)
  • Before names of games: Cricket, Tennis, Golf
  • When we say something about or describing nature, where it means the spirit creating and motivating the world of animals and plants etc.
    1. If you do not take care of nature now, your next generation will suffer for it.
    1. I think Mother Nature is going through a worse phase because of global warming.
  • Home: When we use home alone in a sentence i.e, is not preceded or followed by a phrase or descriptive word, the is omitted:
  1. She is at home now. You can go and see her.
    1. She went home early.
    1. My brother arrived home after dark.
  2. Court, church/temple/synagogue/mosque, bed, hospital, prison, school/college/university:

We do not use the before the nouns listed above when these places are visited or used for their primary purpose.

  1. My mother usually goes to bed before 11. (her sleeping pattern)
    1. Let’s meet at church/temple/synagogue/mosque. (for prayer)
    1. When the litigant reached court, he realized leaving important papers behind. (in the case matter)
    1. While returning from school, we decided to visit the dog shelter. ( from school after studying)
  2. Sea: As a sailor when you go to sea, the is omitted. Or maybe as passengers or crew, we omit the.
    1. The commanding officer is going to sea next month and replace his colleague.
    1. I still remember we were at sea last year this time.

However, when we live near the sea or seaside, we do not omit the.

  • Work and office:
    • She is on her way to work.
    • Men are at work.
    • We are getting delayed for a movie because Alex has not returned from work yet.

Office ( a place of work) requires the: Please call me afterward as she is not in the office.

To be in office without the means to hold an official post.

  • Town: Are you in town tomorrow? Oh yes, you can drop in. ( it does not come with the)