Writing format guide
Task 2 — Essay
Write an essay in response to a point of view. 250 words min.
Practice prompts
Open a prompt to review the task, instructions, and recommended timing.
The changing role of public libraries· opinion
Public libraries should devote more space to practical workshops and community activities, even if this means keeping fewer printed books. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
A compressed working week· opinion
Employers should allow staff to complete their weekly hours in four longer days rather than five standard days. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Local and international history· discuss both
Some people think school history lessons should concentrate on the local area, while others believe students benefit more from studying international events. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Festivals or essential services· discuss both
Some residents support public spending on city festivals because they strengthen community identity. Others say the money should be used only for essential services. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Shared parcel lockers· advantages disadvantages
In many neighbourhoods, home delivery is being replaced by shared parcel lockers in public locations. Do the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Digital-only public transport tickets· advantages disadvantages
Some public transport systems no longer accept cash or paper tickets and require passengers to use a phone or travel card. Do the advantages of this change outweigh the disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Graduates leaving rural towns· problem solution
Many rural towns struggle to retain young adults after they finish higher education. What problems does this cause, and what measures could encourage more graduates to return?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Household food waste· problem solution
Large quantities of edible food are thrown away by households in wealthy countries. Why does this happen, and what can governments and consumers do to reduce the waste?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
Learning practical repair skills· two part
Fewer young adults know how to repair everyday household items than in the past. Why has this change occurred? Should practical repair skills be taught in schools?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words
The return of community radio· two part
Some towns are creating local radio stations despite the popularity of global streaming services. Why might local radio still be valuable? What kinds of programmes should these stations provide?
Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
40 minutes · Write at least 250 words