IELTS.international
Opinionacademic·2023

Some people believe that spending time in nature and outdoor activities is essential for good health. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

Clearly state your position in the introduction, for instance, by strongly agreeing that nature is indispensable for well-being. While briefly acknowledging that urbanisation might limit opportunities for some, immediately pivot to assert that its benefits remain universally essential, setting up your main arguments.

2

Argue for both physical and mental health benefits. For physical health, mention increased physical activity, Vitamin D synthesis, and reduced risk of chronic diseases, citing examples like the 'Blue Zones' where active outdoor lifestyles contribute to longevity. For mental well-being, reference the concept of 'forest bathing' (Shinrin-yoku) from Japan, where immersion in nature is prescribed for stress reduction and improved mood.

3

A common mistake is discussing general health benefits of exercise without explicitly linking them to the unique aspects of nature or outdoor environments. Avoid this by focusing on elements like fresh air, natural light, varied terrain, biodiversity, and the psychological restorative effects of green spaces, rather than just the physical exertion itself.

4

Employ transition phrases that clearly signal the progression of your arguments, especially when moving from physical to mental health benefits. For instance, after discussing physical advantages, you could transition with 'Beyond the physiological benefits, the psychological dividends of engaging with nature are equally profound,' ensuring a cohesive flow.

5

Examiners look for a nuanced understanding of 'essential' – not just 'beneficial' – demonstrated through well-developed arguments supported by specific examples of how nature uniquely contributes to both physical and mental well-being. A band 8-9 response will also showcase sophisticated vocabulary related to environmental psychology and public health, alongside complex grammatical structures used accurately to express subtle distinctions.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.

  • Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
  • State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
  • Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...
2
Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument

Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.

  • Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
  • Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
  • Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument

Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.

  • Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
  • Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
  • Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...
4
Conclusion

Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.

  • Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
  • Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
  • Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

restorative environmentsNatural or semi-natural settings that help reduce stress and mental fatigue.
biophilia hypothesisThe innate human tendency to connect with nature and other living systems.
sedentary lifestylesLifestyles characterized by a lot of sitting and very little physical activity.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be madeA phrase used to introduce a strong and convincing point.
this notion is predicated onThis idea or belief is based on or depends on.
from my perspectiveA phrase used to introduce one's personal viewpoint or opinion.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsA phrase used to indicate that there is a large amount of strong proof supporting a particular point.
notwithstandingDespite; in spite of.
this is not to say thatA phrase used to clarify that a previous statement does not imply something else.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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