Model answers for Cambridge IELTS Book 16 Task 2 EssaysGeneral Test. Learn from my model answers so that you can get the score you need. Written by Mike Wattie, IELTS examiner and author.

Plastic bags, plastic bottles and plastic packaging are bad for the environment.
What damage does plastic do the environment?
What can be done by governments and individuals to solve this problem?

Carrier bags, drink containers and packaging made from plastic are harmful to the environment and are contributing to a major ecological problem. Plastic waste can be found in every part of the world and is causing harm to wildlife and ecosystems. This essay will explain how both authorities and the general public take action to address this issue.

There are several effects of plastic waste on the environment. One way that it damages nature is through the injury or death of wildlife. Many animals, particularly marine life, may mistake plastic for food or become ensnared in plastic debris. This can result in injury or death for these animals. In addition, plastic waste can litter landscapes and damage habitats, making it more difficult for wildlife to thrive. This can have a cascading effect on the rest of the ecosystem, as the loss of one species can have a domino effect on the others that rely on it.

There are several measures that can be taken to address the issue of plastic pollution. Governments can implement regulations and laws that reduce plastic waste, such as bans on certain types of single-use plastic or requirements for companies to be responsible for the plastic they produce. On an individual level, people can decrease their own plastic consumption by using reusable shopping bags, water bottles, and containers, and properly disposing of plastic. Additionally, individuals can support businesses and policies that aim to reduce plastic pollution.

In conclusion, plastic bags, plastic bottles, and plastic packaging are harmful to the environment through both impacts on wildlife habitats and the ecosystem as a whole. Governments through legislation that reduces reliance on plastic and individuals through diminishing their personal use both have a role to play in reducing plastic pollution and protecting the health of Earth and its inhabitants. It is important that everyone acts now to address this issue, as any delays will make it harder to solve. [320 words]

Some people like to try new things, for example, places to visit and types of food. Other people prefer to keep doing things they are familiar with.
Discuss both these attitudes and give your own opinion

There are those who enjoy seeking out new experiences and trying new destinations and cuisines, while others desire to maintain familiarity by continuing to engage in customary activities. Both of these points of view will be debated in the following essay along with why I believe it is up to the individual to determine which approach is best for them.

On the one hand, proponents of seeking out new things see several advantages. One benefit is the excitement and enrichment it can bring. Visiting new locations and trying new cuisines can broaden one’s perspective and introduce them to different cultures and viewpoints. This can facilitate personal growth and a greater appreciation for the world around them. Additionally, attempting new things can be a great way to make new friends and create memorable experiences.

On the other hand, there are also upsides to maintaining familiarity. Familiar activities and routines can provide a sense of comfort and security, which can be particularly important in times of stress or uncertainty. Furthermore, engaging in routine actions can be more efficient and allow for more effective use of time and resources. A pertinent illustration is the fact that some people prepare the same breakfast in advance each day, so they are able to fully concentrate on getting my work done in the morning, allowing for more leisure time later in the day., and money savings on buying ingredients in bulk.

In conclusion, although there are valid merits to both sides, in my view, it is important to find a balance between trying new things and maintaining familiarity. While it is important to venture outside of one’s comfort zones and try new things, it is also important to have a sense of stability and familiarity in life. I consider it is crucial to strike this balance, as an excess of either approach can lead to missed opportunities or unnecessary stress.
[314]

Some people spend most of their lives living close to where they were born.
What might be the reasons for this?
What are the advantages and disadvantages?

Many individuals choose to live in close proximity to their place of birth for a majority of their lives. There are a variety of justifications that individuals may decide to remain near their hometown, and this decision also has its own benefits and downsides.

There are several reasons why people may choose to stay close to home. The prominent one is due to a strong sense of community and connection to their hometown. Many people have deep roots in their community and value the relationships they have with friends and family members. Additionally, some individuals may have a strong attachment to their hometown due to their cultural or personal history and may feel a sense of belonging there that they might not find elsewhere.

There are both benefits and drawbacks to remaining near one’s place of birth. On the positive side, living in the same community for an extended period of time can foster strong connections with loves ones, and provide a sense of familiarity and belonging. Additionally, staying in one place may offer access to a range of resources and opportunities that may not be available elsewhere. For example, a local who has grown up exploring local caves would make an excellent tour guide. However, there are also potential drawbacks to staying in the same place for an extended period of time. Living in the same community may limit exposure to new ideas and experiences and may also restrict opportunities for personal and professional growth.

In conclusion, there are a variety of reasons that people may choose to stay close to home for most of their lives, including a strong community spirit and personal connection to their hometown. This can lead to advantages such as strong relationships and professional opportunities. However, there are also potential drawbacks to this decision, including potential boredom and stagnation of development.
[307 words]

Some people say that now is the best time in history to be living.
What is your opinion about this?
What other time in history would be interesting to live in?

There are those who argue that the present moment is the ideal period in history to be alive, while others disagree and believe that there have been or will be better times in the past or future. In my opinion, the question of whether or not the present is the best time in history to be living is subjective and depends on an individual’s perspective, while there are many other historical periods of significant change which might be fascinating to experience.

I believe there are arguments for and against the present being the superlative era. In support is the progress that has been made in areas such as medicine, technology, and human rights. Advances in these areas have led to longer and healthier lives, easier communication and access to information, and greater social and political equality. In contrast, there are also valid arguments against the idea. For example, the current global political climate is marked by tensions and conflicts, and issues such as climate change and overconsumption are threatening the future of the planet.

Moreover, there are many different periods in history that would be interesting to experience firsthand. For instance, the Renaissance was a time of great cultural and intellectual achievements, with advancements in art, science, and exploration. In addition, the early 20th century was a time of great social and political change, with the rise of feminism, civil rights movements, and decolonization. Each of these periods had unique challenges and opportunities, and living during either of them would provide the opportunity to witness and participate in significant historical events and cultural shifts.

In conclusion, I am ambivalent as to whether or not the present is the best time in history to be alive as the advancements that have improved human life are balanced by political and climate threats. There are also other times in history that might be interesting, especially those with great social or technological change.

Get the score you need by using my IELTS writing correction and feedback service by a trained examiner to increase your score. I check your writing tasks and give you feedback on errors and ways to improve your writing. I will also give you a score for each of the four grading criteria.
https://www.ieltsanswers.com/writing-correction-ielts.html