crime ielts essay questions

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Crime & Punishment Essay Titles

IELTS Essay Questions for the Topic of Crime & Punishment. All essay questions below are reported by IELTS candidates and seem to have been repeated over the years. Regardless of the years the questions were reported, you could get any question below in your test. You should, therefore, prepare ideas for all questions given below. This topic is more likely to appear in the Academic test than the GT writing test. However, all candidates should prepare for all topics to be safe.

Crime & Punishment Essay Questions for IELTS Writing Task 2

The crime rate nowadays is decreasing compared to the past due to advance technology which can prevent and solve crime. Do you agree or disagree? (Reported 2017, 2021 Academic Test)

Many criminals commit further crimes as soon as they released from prison. What do you think are the causes of this? What possible solutions can you suggest? (Reported 2015, 2017, 2022 Academic Test)

It is often thought that the increase in juvenile crime can be attributed to violence in the media. Do you agree that this is the main cause of juvenile crime? What solutions can you offer to deal with this situation? (common question)

In some societies, the number of crimes committed by teenagers is growing. Some people think that regardless of age, teenagers who commit major crimes should receive adult punishment. To what extent do you agree? (2020, 2023)

Some countries are struggling with an increase in the rate of crime. Many people think that having more police on the streets is the only way to reduce crime. To what extent do you agree? (2018, 2020)

Some people think that women should not be allowed to work in the police force. Do you agree or disagree?

Many crimes are often related to the consumption of alcohol. Some people think that the best way to reduce the crime rate is to ban alcohol. Do you think this is an effective measure against crime? What other solutions can you suggest?

Some people think certain prisoners should be made to do unpaid community work instead of being put behind bars. To what extent do you agree? (Reported 2017, 2020, GT Test)

Many people believe that having a fixed punishment for all crimes is more efficient. What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a fixed punishment? (common question)

Some people think that the government should be responsible for crime prevention, while others believe that it is the responsibility of the individual to protect themselves. Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

The death penalty is the best way to control and reduce serious crime. To what extent do you agree? (2018, 2020)

While it is sometimes thought that prison is the best place for criminals, others believe that there are better ways to deal with them. What is your opinion? (common question – this is often reworded with a focus on the best ways to deal with criminals)

Crime rate, in most countries, is often higher in urban areas than in rural areas. Why do you think that is? What can be done to reduce the crime rate?

Some people think that poverty is the reason behind most crimes. Do you agree or disagree?

Internet crime is increasing rapidly as more and more people are using the internet to make financial transactions. What can be done to tackle this problem ?

Some people think that the parents of children who commit crime should also receive a punishment. Do you agree or disagree? (2020)

Reported essay questions are from students who have taken their IELTS test. That means questions may have appeared more frequently than have been reported. These questions may vary slightly in wording and focus from the original question. Also note that these questions could also appear in IELTS speaking part 3 which is another good reason to prepare all topics thoroughly.

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IELTS Essays About Crime

Jump to: Opinion Essays , Discussion Essays , Discussion and Opinion Essays , or Situation Essays

Opinion Essays

The death penalty should be available as a punishment for serious crimes.

To what extent do you agree?

Certain groups of society believe that the most efficient way of lowering crime rates is to be able to implement the death penalty for crimes which are the most serious. Others believe that this is not the case and makes no difference. Personally, I am completely against the use of the death penalty and this essay shall explore some of the reasons for this view point.

Firstly, a major drawback of the death penalty is that it is irreversible and could be handed out incorrectly. Although forensic scientists are becoming more and more advanced there is still a chance that mistakes are made and innocent people are executed. A classic case of this was Colin Ross, who in 1922 was executed but later evidence proved that he was actually innocent and in fact he was later pardoned in 2008.

In addition to the above arguments is the fact that some people are of the opinion that the death penalty has no place in a civilized society. To kill another human being for whatever reason should be considered a very low immoral act which demonstrates a lack of appreciation for the precious gift of life which we have all been given. Furthermore, most major religions of the world express the need for forgiveness. Executing inmates on death row is as far from this particular teaching as you could get.

Overall, it can be said that innocent people can be executed wrongfully and that a truly developed society should be able to find a more productive way of dealing with serious criminals. I therefore remain firmly of the stand point that the death penalty is totally unethical and ineffective

Internet crime is increasing rapidly as growing numbers of people purchase goods over the internet. What can be done to tackle this problem?

Following a significant increase in the number of financial transactions taking place online in recent years, internet crime levels have also increased dramatically. I believe this is due to the fact that people often think that they are safe when they are sat behind a computer and that they cannot be caught easily. This essay shall explore some ways of reducing these types of crimes.

One of the most effective ways of reducing online crime levels might be to make every internet user log-in with their passport number or national identification card number. Most countries assign at least one of these numbers to each citizen so this would make it very easy to track down who had done what crime and when. If potential criminals were made to identify themselves online in this manner when they first log on then it may cause them to think twice about conducting illegal activities.

Another method which may also aid online crime reduction would be to regulate the websites that the general public was allowed to access. This would mean that rather than the public being able to visit any type of websites they want to, they would only be allowed to access websites which were secure and not linked in any way to criminal activity. For example, certain web-sites such as Alphabaymarket.com sell fire-arms and drugs and are infamous for being places where illegal activities and transactions take place. Eliminating access to them could therefore aid in crime level reduction.

Overall, making people identify themselves online and restricting access to certain web-sites could help in online crime reduction. Personally, I feel the government need to take responsibility for implementing some or all of the above ideas.

Some people believe that poverty is the cause of most crimes.

Do you agree or disagree?

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While some people believe prison is the best place for criminals others think that there are better ways to handle them.

What is your opinion?

Violence in society increases when more violence is shown on television.

To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In some communities the teenage crime rate is growing. Some people believe that regardless of age, teenagers who commit major crimes should receive punishment that is the same as an adults.

Some people believe certain prisoners should be forced to do community work with no pay rather than being simply kept inside a prison cell.

The crime rate nowadays is lower than in the past because of the increased use of advanced technology which can prevent and solve crimes.

Some countries are experiencing an increase in the rates of crime. Many people believe that getting more police walking the streets is the best way to prevent crime from occurring.

Discussion Essays

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Many people think that having one single fixed punishment for all crimes would be more effective.

What are the advantages and disadvantages of having a fixed punishment?

Discussion and Opinion Essays

Some people think that giving harsher prison sentences and punishments is the best way to reduce crime rates, others however believe there are alternative methods that need to be explored.

Discuss both sides and give your own opinion.

Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to hand out longer prison sentences, whilst other people think that there are better methods of doing reducing crime.

Discuss both views and give your opinion .

Some people think that the government should be responsible for reducing crime, where as others believe individuals should take responsibility for their own safety and security.

Discuss both sides and give your opinion.

Many criminals after being released go on to commit further crimes as soon as they are allowed out of prison.

What do you think are the causes of this and what possible solutions can you suggest?

Situation Essays

In some poorer areas of large cities people are too afraid to leave their houses at night time due to a fear of crime.

What are the causes of crime in those areas and what can be done to tackle those problems?

In many large cities around the world youth crime is growing at a fast rate.

What are the reasons for this and suggest some solutions.

Crime rates in most countries are often higher in urban areas than in rural areas.

What do you think are the reasons for this and what can be done to lower the crime rates?

It is thought that the increase in youth crime rates can be linked to an increase in violence shown in the media.

Do you agree that this is the main factor causing juvenile crime and what ideas can you offer to deal with the situation?

Many crimes are often linked to the consumption of alcohol. Some people think that banning alcohol sales would dramatically reduce crime.

Do you think it is an effective measure against crime and what other solutions can you suggest?

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Crime and punishment IELTS model essay with vocabulary

Our band nine sample essays give you the opportunity to learn from successful essays that show off the best structure, vocabulary and grammar. This IELTS essay on crime and punishment explores the advantages and disadvantages of harsh punishment for criminals.

band Nine Sample Essay

In some countries, crimes are punished harshly. what are some advantages and disadvantages of this approach.

Several nations have opted to implement a system of strict penalties, such as long jail sentences and execution, for crimes. In this essay, I will explore the advantage that this is a good deterrent with the disadvantage that this harms rehabilitation .

Punitive measures can help deter future crime. If people can see that crimes will be punished harshly, they are far less likely to want to commit a crime . Because people consider risk versus reward before acting, making crime as risky as possible by increasing punishment can stop criminals. Conversely, when countries have light punishments for crimes like shoplifting , people in those countries might feel like it is worth the risk to do these crimes.

However, these strong punishments also increase recidivism by failing to rehabilitate people. One of the main purposes of sending people to prison is to prevent them from committing crimes when they leave; however, making prisons and other punishments too strict works against this purpose. When criminals have a heavily punitive experience, they lose self-confidence and become distrustful of authority , meaning they are more likely to be involved in crime when they leave prison. Alternatively, if prisoners have access to training and support, such as drug rehabilitation programs and anger management classes, they are far more likely to rejoin society in a productive way. 

In conclusion, the correct punishment for crimes is a complex issue. On the one hand, strong measures deter crime; on the other hand, the same measures make it more likely for prisoners to reoffend .

crime and punishment vocabulary

Although crime and punishment is a common topic in the IELTS exam, there, thankfully, is not too much vocabulary you need to know for it. Let’s take a look at some of the high level vocabulary in this answer to kick start your learning.

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IELTS Essay About Crime – Innate or Environmental?

Posted by David S. Wills | Dec 19, 2020 | Model Essays | 0

Today, I want to share with you an essay I wrote recently that I think is useful to demonstrate some good language and also a strong approach to structure for task 2 . This essay deals with the tricky topic of crime and in particular it asks whether criminals are driven by circumstances or whether the criminal mentality is innate.

Analysing the Question

First of all, let’s look at the question. It is important to study it properly in order to give a good answer.

Some think most crime is the result of circumstances e.g. poverty and other social problems. Others believe that most crime is caused by people who are bad by nature. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This is a “discuss both views” question, which means that it is pretty straightforward to understand. There are two views and we need to discuss them both and also give our own opinion:

• Criminals are driven by their circumstances
• Criminals are innately bad people

These two ideas are the ones you should discuss in the body of your essay and you should choose one of the following positions:

• Agree with the first position
• Agree with the second position
• Partially agree with both (ie a balanced view)  

Do you need to talk about the example given in the question?

Often, when I mark essays for my IELTS writing correction service , I notice that students devote a lot of their essay to the examples given in the question. However, these are just examples and they are not the whole question. You should not become too fixated upon them.

In this case, the examples are “poverty and other social problems.” You can choose to talk about these or ignore them, but you definitely should not act like these are the main point of the question. They are simply there to illustrate what “circumstances” means.

When it comes to “discuss both views” questions, your structure is pretty easy. I would recommend writing an essay like this:

This is very simple, but of course it is more of a challenge to actually write the essay.

My position in this essay is that crime is generally a result of a person’s circumstances, but that there are some traits that may be innate. I will deal with the innate aspect first, then slightly refute it, before concentrating on the circumstances viewpoint.

My structure will look like this:

This essay would fulfil all the necessary criteria for a high band score if written with good vocabulary and grammar.

Picking the Right Vocabulary

I wrote an article recently about the crime and punishment topic in the IELTS exam. I also made this video about the topic to help you learn vocabulary:

In this particular essay, I don’t really need to talk about aspects of punishment, so it is not important to focus on that. Rather, I would look at words related to crime and criminals, and also into ideas about environment and biology.

By those last two words, I mean the issue of nature vs nurture . This refers to whether people are born with certain traits or develop them over their life. It would be good to know about this at even a basic level in order to give a good answer.

Here are some words and phrases from my essay:

• innately bad
• a more liberal approach
• acts of desperation
• hereditary psychological condition
• predilection towards violence
• controversial perspective
• traumatic backgrounds
• criminal compunctions
• impoverished communities
• crime flourishes
• overlook social norms
• empathic perspective
• conditioned
• unfortunate circumstances

You can see how these are used in the following essay.

Sample Band 9 Answer

Throughout history, people tended to believe that crimes were committed by those who were innately bad, but in the modern era a more liberal approach has led to the idea that crimes are often acts of desperation, committed by people whose circumstances are bleak. This essay will explore both perspectives, concluding that the latter is usually true.

First of all, it should be noted that some crimes are committed by people who appear innately driven towards such acts. These people may have some sort of hereditary psychological condition that means they do not feel empathy for others, or a predilection towards violence. This is a controversial perspective and although it feels true for many, it is hard to prove. Many of the most violent criminals have traumatic backgrounds, such as child abuse, neglect, or sexual assault, which suggests that they were not born with their criminal compunctions, but rather that these developed very early, which thus places them more into the circumstances than nature category. However, the lines are blurry.

Certainly, it does seem as though most criminals are created out of difficult circumstances. To understand this, one just has to look at impoverished communities around the world. These are places where crime flourishes because the people there are desperate and forced to do immoral things in order to survive. In such states of despair, people tend to put themselves first and overlook social norms, laws, and the usual empathic perspective that would stop most people from hurting others. In such areas, people tend to be conditioned for a young age to ignore the law or even social decency, joining gangs and becoming influenced by dangerous people. This tends to be a problem due to a lack of resources, opportunities, and education in such areas.

In conclusion, it appears likely that most crime is the result of people’s unfortunate circumstances, meaning that criminals are not inherently bad. However, there may be some people who were born with a certain compunction towards violent or criminal activity.

About The Author

David S. Wills

David S. Wills is the author of Scientologist! William S. Burroughs and the 'Weird Cult' and the founder/editor of Beatdom literary journal. He lives and works in rural Cambodia and loves to travel. He has worked as an IELTS tutor since 2010, has completed both TEFL and CELTA courses, and has a certificate from Cambridge for Teaching Writing. David has worked in many different countries, and for several years designed a writing course for the University of Worcester. In 2018, he wrote the popular IELTS handbook, Grammar for IELTS Writing and he has since written two other books about IELTS. His other IELTS website is called IELTS Teaching.

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IELTS Cause/Effect Essay Sample 1 – Crime

In this post, we will look at a cause/effect essay example from the IELTS writing task 2 test. Students often ask if the questions are repeated year after year and the answer is no, but the topics are. There are so many questions written each year, you may find your practice answering various questions on different topics. For example, you could write essays to answer questions about education or the environment, which benefits you because you learn vocabulary associated with those topics and develop ideas that can help you in your writing test.

Practising writing IELTS task 2 essays on a range of topics is a great way to learn new vocabulary for those topics, but also to practice your essay structures. You begin to develop your ideas around those topics, thinking of examples and giving your opinions.

If you would like to purchase a 30 page PDF download that is easy to read and print out please take a look at the bookshop >

If you would like to learn how to structure a cause/effect essay  please click the button below >

Take a look at the IELTS essay example below >>

Numerous ex-convicts re-offend soon after they have been freed from jail. This essay will first discuss why this is happening and secondly the negative impact it has on society.

On the one hand, the primary cause of ex-prisoners committing crimes as soon as they are out of prison is because they think that this could be the fastest way to earn money. Having a criminal record means that it is hard to find employment, which means that ex-cons cannot find suitable jobs. Most employers would be very hesitant to hire someone who has a criminal record, even though the person might have the right skills for the position. For example, an ABC 5 documentary in 2016 reported that 90% of employers would not hire an employee if they had committed criminal offences.

On the other hand, this has a detrimental effect on society, because new offences will be committed and the taxpayers will keep paying for these criminals. This will also indicate the need to have bigger prisons to accommodate prisoners, which furthermore affects the budget of a city. If more prisons are required, taxes will rise and the community will pay for these people to stay incarcerated. For example, in 2016, the Caloocan City municipality reported that they allocated 80 million pesos to extend their city jails, and this was funded by taxpayers.

In conclusion, the lack of opportunities for ex-convicts to restart their lives is the reason why they tend to commit the same mistakes. The effect is immense not only for the individual but for the whole country as well, for this can affect the economic stability.

(Word count – 270 / Band score 8)

The following video will give you contains sample Essay in audiovisual format.

Instructor Feedback on IELTS CAUSE AND EFFECT Question Essay: Crime

• Task Achievement  – The essay provides an answer to the question asked, supported by relevant examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion  – The answer has been divided into clear logical paragraphs and each main body paragraph only has one main idea. There are cohesive links between the main body paragraphs .
• Lexical Resource  – There is evidence of a wide range of vocabulary, with no errors in the text.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy  – The answer has no grammatical errors. The sentences have a wide range of structures. 

Want to check more Cause and Effect Essay Samples? Check the IELTS Cause/Effect Question Essay Examples

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Ielts essay # 287 - fixed punishments for each type of crime, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment..

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50 Recent IELTS Essay Questions

Hey! It is so important that when you sit down to practice IELTS writing, you only use questions that are “genuine”. This means using either questions that come from the IELTS Cambridge 1 – 15   series or those that have been created by an exam writer like those in my 100 IELTS essay question blog post.  However, many students like to practice recent IELTS essay questions i.e. topics that have been reported by recent test-takers.

I understand why students want to do this – knowing what the recent IELTS essays questions are and checking that you can answer them is reassuring. However, unfortunately, test-takers rarely (if ever) manage to accurately remember the wording of the question that they had in their test.

Can they remember the general topic? Sure.

Can they remember the exact wording? Definitely not!

Sadly, changing even one word in a test can change the focus of a question and, therefore, make it impossible to answer! So, every month, I collect 50 recent IELTS essay questions from students in  My IELTS Classroom  , and edit them so that they are as close to perfect as possible.

Plus, I divide the questions into Academic and General Training (so you can be sure you are tackling the right type of questions) and have highlighted the main topic of each question for you.

This page is updated monthly and is now showing questions from 2021. If you want to see exam questions that reportedly appeared earlier in 2021, then you can look at our 2021 archive .

As always, these questions are provided so that you can check that you have ideas for the nw topics. If you are preparing with a teacher or want high-quality feedback on your  writing  then you should always use a question from the original IELTS Cambridge Series .

Academic IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021)

1. Some people think that criminal behaviour has genetic causes . Others believe that it is circumstances that lead people to commit a crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

2. Some people think that new houses should be built in the same style as older houses in an area. Others believe that local councils should allow people to choose different designs for their houses. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the best way to teach children to behave well is to punish them. Others argue that rewarding and praising children is a better way to teach them the difference between right and wrong. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

4.  Some people believe that women should be able to join their country’s army and police forces . Others think that only men should be allowed to work in these areas. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

5.  In some countries, there are not enough medical or educational facilities in rural areas. Therefore, some people believe newly graduated teachers and doctors should be sent to work in rural areas for some time. Others think that people should be free to choose where they work after graduation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. A lot of research has shown that overeating can have a number of negative effects on the body. Some people therefore believe that the advertising of certain foods should be banned in the same way that some countries have banned advertising cigarettes. Do you agree or disagree?

7 Some people think that parents should teach their children about the importance of recycling . Others believe recycling should be taught in schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

8. The media has the right to publish information about the personal life of celebrities . To what extent do you agree or disagree?

9. Some people say that instead of preventing climate change, we need to find a way to live with it. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?

10. Young people today mostly learn by reading books or watching movies and TV shows , rather than personal experience. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

11. Big companies should provide sports and social facilities for the local communities where they operate. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

12. Some people argue that thanks to the widespread accessibility of the internet, libraries are no longer necessary. Do you agree or disagree?

13. If asked to choose between a life without work and a life that involves working most of the time, people will always choose not to work. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

14. Eighteen is the appropriate age for children to finish school. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

15. Schools should stop using books to teach and use films, TV and computers in the classroom instead. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Writing a good IELTS essay doesn’t have to be difficult. Follow our step-by-step guide to every type of essay to find out what the examiner expects and exactly what you can do to satisfy the band descriptors in our Task Two course. The first three lessons are free!

16. Nowadays foreign visitors show more interest in the museums of a country than its local residents do. Why is this? What can be done to attract more local residents to visit museums in their country?

17 Many companies sponsor sports teams and events to advertise their products or service . What advantages and disadvantages does this bring for the teams and individuals that these companies sponsor?

18. Most information today is available online whereas in the past it was stored in books or on paper. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

19. The difference between countries is becoming less and less evident as people all over the world wear the same fashions, watch the same TV channels, use the same brands, and have similar eating habits. Do you think that the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

20. Nowadays many people get the news online instead of reading it in newspapers or watching it on TV. Is this a positive or negative development?

21. In many countries today the proportion of older people in the population is higher than the proportion of younger people . Do you think this is a positive or a negative development?

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22. More and more tasks in the home and at work are being performed by robots . Why do you think this is the case? Is this a negative or positive development?

23. Nowadays tourists and scientists are allowed to travel to remote natural environments . Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

24. Due to population growth many people these days live in apartments with limited space and no outdoor areas. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh its disadvantages?

25. Every country in the world has its own road rules , but many drivers don’t obey them. What do you think are the reasons for this? What can be done to solve this problem?

BONUS In many countries, shopping is now one of the most popular types of leisure activity . Why do you so many young people like shopping? Is this a positive or a negative development?

What are the current Aacdemic writing trends?

My observation of the most recent IELTS essay questions from 2021 is that there have been A LOT of Discuss Both Sides and To What Extent questions. In fact, this is more or less all that I have seen in the first month of the new year, so be sure that you are ready to answer these.

GT IELTS Essay Questions (February 2021 – September 2021

1. Some people believe that individuals who earn a lot of money are the most successful in life . Others say that the individuals who contribute to the society (such as scientists or teachers) are more successful. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

2. It is universally accepted that eating too much  sugar has a negative effects on people’s health . Therefore, some believe that the government should control the amount of sugar people consume. Others think that it is the responsibility of an individual to monitor their sugar intake. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

3. Some people say that the development of technology means that people no longer need to learn the skill of handwriting . Others believe that it is still necessary for people to learn how to write by hand. Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

4. Some people believe that individuals over 65 should not be allowed to continue working . Others think that people should be allowed to work for as long as they choose. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

5. Some people think that it is a good idea for parents to help their children with their homework. Others believe that children should do their homework on their own. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

6. Some people think that the government should spend money on cultural activities such as music or art. Others think this is a waste of taxpayers’ money. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

7. Some people think that children should be taught how to become good parents at school . Do you agree or disagree?

8. Many mothers stay at home to take care of their family and don’t go out to work . Some people believe these mothers should be paid by the government. Do you agree or disagree?

9. In many countries, it is common for people to consume fast food. However, some people believe that fast food has too much influence on our lifestyle and diet. Do you agree or disagree with this statement?

10. Some people say that playing sports helps to prepare children for their future jobs . Do you agree or disagree?

11. Some people say that the Olympic Games no longer play a role in the 21st century . Do you agree or disagree?

12.   People’s behaviour (for example, their table manners and they way they dress) varies from country to country. When traveling to a different country, people should copy the behaviour and habits of the inhabitants of the country they  visit. Do you agree or disagree?

13.  The best way to increase road safety is to make car drivers retake their driving test every year. Do you agree or disagree?

14.  Some people believe that family is more important than friends . What do you think?

15.  The Internet is the best place to find information . Do you agree or disagree?

16.  In many countries traditional customs are being lost.  Why do you think this is? What can parents and schools do to keep traditional customs alive? 

17.  People who are learning a foreign language can face a number of difficulties. What are some of these problems? In your opinion, what are the best ways to overcome these difficulties?

18. Young people today are often less polite and show less respect than previous generations . Why do you think this is? What can be done to solve this problem? 

19. Developments in technology mean that more and more machines are being used in the workplace instead of human employees. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages?

20. In some countries, young people choose to move from their parents’ home to their own house at an early age. In other countries, young people stay with parents for a longer time. Do you think young people who leave their parent’s home at a younger age have more advantages or disadvantages than those who stay?

21. In many parts of the world, more and more large supermarkets are opening and smaller local shops are closing down. Does this development have more advantages or more disadvantages for local people?

22. In some countries it is illegal to stop people applying for a job because of their age . Is this a positive or a negative development?

 23.  In many countries, people are earning more money today than in the past, so they are able to buy more things. Is this a positive or a negative development?

24. Nowadays, people prefer to shop at large shopping centres rather than in local shops or markets. Why is this? Is this a positive or negative development?

25. Nowadays in many countries traditional customs are becoming less popular than in the past . Do you agree or disagree? What can parents and teachers do about this?

BONUS –  Playing team sports at school can teach students a number of lessons that are useful outside of sport. What values can students learn from playing team sports? How can they apply these values in the future? 

What are the current GT writing trends?

So far this year, I have noticed two main trends for the recent IELTS essay questions for General Training students. First, there continue to be more 2-part questions than in the Academic test, and the topics seem to be more and more diverse.

Also, the test writers seem to making small changes to the wording of questions, which don’t actually change what you are expected to do, but may confuse some students. For example, in the past, you were always asked “Is this a positive or negative trend?” but recently the same question has been phrased as:

• Is this a good thing or a bad thing?
• Do you think this is right or wrong?
• Do you think this this a good or bad use of public money?

If you enter the exam room and feel confused by the question, my advice is always to simply answer the question that you have been given.

Yes, there are question types that repeat, but if you are given a direct essay question or a type of question that is unfamiliar, simply focusing on answering the question/s you have been given clearly is always the best approach!

Looking for an IELTS school run by native speakers who have a proven track record of helping students achieve their potential in IELTS? Then come join the students at  My IELTS Classroom  who are using our unique video courses, live lessons and marking service to maximise their scores. 

OK – those are the 50 most recent IELTS essay questions. I will try to do this every month so that you can be sure you have ideas for every possible IELTS question in your exam. Well, maybe not to every question, but at least by practicing with these, you will have sharpened your idea-generation skills . Plus, you can help me by adding any questions that you can remember from a recent IELTS exam in the comments below 🚀

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Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular – IELTS Writing Task 2

Updated On Mar 24, 2024

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Table of Contents [ Show ]

• Band 7 Sample Answer
• Band 8 Sample Answer
• Band 9 Sample Answer
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Connectors

The  IELTS Writing Task 2  evaluates your ability to write a coherent essay on a specified subject. So, you must familiarize yourself with the aim of the question and the structure of the answer because Task 2 includes Direct Question Essays, such as ‘Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular’ from  Cambridge IELTS 15 General Training Test 1.

The IELTS essay topic, ‘Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular’ is a direct question essay. Direct question essays, also known as two-part question essays, often consist of two questions. After you’ve understood the question, you must ensure that your response is clear and that your points are backed up with relevant examples. Check out more  IELTS writing Task 2 practice tests  to get some experience writing essays similar to this one.

For many IELTS examinees, the essay writing section of the IELTS Writing Module proves to be an intimidating undertaking. To help you polish your essay writing before taking the IELTS, we have offered well chosen Band 7, 8, and 9 sample answers on the topic, Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular.

Let’s examine the IELTS Two Part Question – Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular, also known as the  Direct Question Essay .

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

In many countries today, crime novels and tv crime dramas are becoming more and more popular. why do you think these books and tv shows are popular what is your opinion of crime fiction and tv crime dramas, give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience., write at least 250 words..

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Band 7 Sample Answer for Writing Task 2 Question – Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular

Crime novels and TV crime dramas have been becoming more prevalent in many countries worldwide. This essay will cover my views on crime literature and TV crime dramas as well as examine the factors that contribute to their appeal.

One reason for the popularity of crime fiction is that they present intricate puzzles and mysteries that challenge viewers’ reasoning abilities. Audiences enjoy trying to solve crimes alongside the characters, engaging in a mental exercise that adds an interactive element to the viewing experience. Also, crime shows allow viewers to immerse themselves in fictional worlds where they can experience suspense and excitement without real-life consequences.

According to me, TV crime dramas and criminal fiction are instructive and enjoyable. Being a bookworm and watcher of crime fiction, I value its capacity to keep my mind active and offer a way to escape reality. I am aware that they sometimes spread false information and negative perceptions about crime and the criminal justice system. So, it is important to read these stories critically and understand that they are fictional works that might not accurately depict the truth.

To sum up, the appeal of crime novels and TV crime dramas can be traced to their capacity to hold the attention of readers, and challenge the mental capacity of the viewers. As a result, people view them as a source of entertainment even though they have limitations. (231 words)

Vocabulary 

Meaning:  existing very commonly or happening often

Example:  Wearing colourful dresses on festive occasions is prevalent in India.

Meaning:  a quality that causes people to like someone or something

Example:  Being secretive has its own appeal to some people.

Meaning:  difficult to understand; obscure; complex; puzzling

Example:  The tourists admired the intricate work on the temple idols.

Meaning:  a person who likes to read books and who spends a lot of time reading and studying

Example:  Although she is a bookworm, do not present her books without knowing her preferences.

• Perception 

Meaning:  a belief or opinion, often held by many people and based on how things seem

Example:  It is a common perception that salaried women cannot be good housewives.

Meaning:  to represent or show something in a picture or story

Example:  The color white depicts peace.

• Limitations

Meaning:  something that controls or reduces something

Example:  You have to overcome your limitations by practising regularly.

Check Out –  IELTS Writing Task 2 Preparation Tips/Tricks

Band 8 Sample Answer for Writing Task 2 Question – Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular

Recently, crime novels and TV dramas have become incredibly popular, frequently topping lists of the best-selling books and series. There could be a number of explanations for their growing appeal, which will be discussed in the following paragraphs along with my opinion.

Firstly, crime shows and fiction frequently have intricate and compelling plots that keep viewers on the edge of their seats. The storyline of the television show “Breaking Bad,” for instance, is gripping because it follows the transformation of a high school chemistry teacher into a drug producer. Secondly, crime dramas frequently function as a platform for social commentary, tackling topics like injustice, corruption, and weaknesses in the legal system. “The Wire” is well known for its examination of how Baltimore’s drug trade affects society.

I like reading crime fiction and watching crime dramas on TV. They combine drama, suspense, and intellectual challenge in a way that other genres might not. I find it intriguing to work through the mystery with the story’s characters and see if my deductions agree with theirs. In addition, crime fiction has the potential to be a powerful tool for presenting difficult societal topics in an interesting manner. However, these TV crime dramas and crime novels have their limitations. Certain stories have the potential to normalise crime and violence while also fostering unfavourable perceptions about particular racial groups.

In conclusion, the thrill of cracking a case and the examination of significant societal issues are the reasons behind the popularity of crime novels and TV crime dramas. Even though these genres have their critics, I think that crime fiction and TV crime dramas may be entertaining when read critically and thoughtfully. (276 words)

• Incredibly 

Meaning:  extremely; used for saying that something is very difficult to believe

Example:  The sunset view from the top of the mountain on the snow is incredibly beautiful.

• Compelling 

Meaning:  very exciting and interesting and making you want to watch or listen

Example:  The movie was admired by many due to its compelling plot.

Meaning:  so interesting or exciting that it holds your attention

Example:  My grandmother used to tell gripping stories that all of us enjoyed.

Meaning:  an expression of opinion; an explanatory series of notes or comments

Example:  All of this author’s books are social commentary to different aspects of the society.

Meaning:  a style, especially in the arts, that involves a particular set of characteristics

Example:  Mr. Rasem prefers the thriller genre to the romantic.

• Thoughtfully

Meaning:  in a way that shows you tend to think seriously about things or treat people with care and consideration

Example:  The nurse took care of the newborn quite thoughtfully.

Join our free IELTS webinars  for tips on crafting a Band 8+ Two-Part essay on topics like ‘Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular’!

Band 9 Sample Answer for Writing Task 2 Question – Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular

Unlock Answer & Vocabulary

Crime novels and TV crime dramas have been increasingly popular in several nations in recent years. The reasons for this trend will be examined in this essay. In my view, criminal fiction and non-fiction writings are significant and ought to be appreciated for what they have to offer.

To begin with, crime fiction is inherently suspenseful, making it a genre that consistently provides thrills and excitement. The constant twists and turns in shows like “Sherlock” or “True Detective” contribute to the genre’s popularity. Moreover, the appeal of these shows or books deepen through intricate character development, as seen in “Dexter,” where the protagonist evolves from a blood spatter analyst to a vigilante serial killer. Besides exploring the application of cutting-edge forensic techniques in shows like “CSI” and “Forensic Files”, crime fiction also explores the psyche of characters, as demonstrated by Hannibal Lecter in “The Silence of the Lambs,” showcasing the allure of brilliant yet deranged personalities.

The popularity of crime literature and TV crime dramas, in my opinion, is a double-edged sword that attracts both compliments and criticism. While these genres attract spectators with character development and complex storytelling like in “Mindhunter” and “True Detective”, certain storylines glamorize criminal behaviour. Therefore, I believe producers should tread carefully so as to maintain the genre’s popularity while being both enjoyable and socially conscious.

To sum up, various factors like gripping stories, psychological twists, technical elements, and obsession with crime in culture are some of the reasons for the rising popularity of crime shows and crime novels. Although we enjoy these thrillers, we must also consider the effects they might have on society as a whole. (273 words)

• Inherently 

Meaning:  in a way that exists as a natural or basic part of something

Example:  Mary is inherently a quiet child and it worries her parents.

• Protagonist 

Meaning:  the leading actor or principal character in a television show, movie, book, etc.

Example:  The protagonist dying at the end of the fight was quite realistic and shocking.

Meaning:  a person who tries in an unofficial way to prevent crime, or to catch and punish someone who has committed a crime

Example:  Batman is a vigilante in Gotham city.

• Cutting-edge

Meaning:  the most recent and advanced stage of development in a particular type of work or activity, with the newest systems, equipment, etc.

Example:  The scientists are using cutting edge technology to come up with the cure to cancer.

Meaning:  the mind, or the deepest thoughts, feelings, or beliefs of a person or group

Example:  The human psyche is a complex and interesting system.

Meaning:  mad; insane

Example:  After losing his wife and child in the accident, Mr. Gomes became deranged.

• Double-edged sword

Meaning:  a situation or course of action having both positive and negative effects

Example:  Taking her to the party turned out to be a double-edged sword as many people admired her and some became insecure.

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IELTS Writing Task 2 Connectors for Gaining Bonus Points in the Sample Answers for Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular

To help you bring coherence to your writing and get points for the IELTS Writing Task 2 – ‘Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular’, check out the list of  connectors/linking words  used in the sample responses provided above.

• According to me
• Also/Moreover/
• Firstly…Secondly
• For instance
• In my view/In my opinion
• To begin with
• To sum up/In conclusion

Now that you have gone through the sample answers on the topic – Crime Novels and TV Crime Dramas are Becoming Popular – it is time for you to try writing on your own. For that, leave your answers as a comment below or you can use our  FREE evaluation service !

Additional Resources

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• Free IELTS Online Tests 2024 | Practice IELTS Mock Test Online

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Kasturika Samanta

Kasturika is a professional Content Writer with over three years of experience as an English language teacher. Her understanding of English language requirements, as set by foreign universities, is enriched by her interactions with students and educators. Her work is a fusion of extensive knowledge of SEO practices and up-to-date guidelines. This enables her to produce content that not only informs but also engages IELTS aspirants. Her passion for exploring new horizons has driven her to achieve new heights in her learning journey.

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