IELTS.international
Opinionacademic·2021

In the modern world, it is no longer necessary to use animals for food or to use animal products for clothing and medicines. 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

For this 'To what extent' question, state your clear position (e.g., 'I largely agree' or 'I strongly disagree') in your introduction. While acknowledging the opposing viewpoint in a concession clause (e.g., 'While some argue that...'), immediately pivot to reinforce your primary stance, ensuring every body paragraph supports this main argument.

2

To support an 'agree' stance, cite the rapid advancements in cellular agriculture, exemplified by companies like Eat Just receiving approval for lab-grown chicken in Singapore. For clothing, mention the proliferation of high-quality synthetic and plant-based leathers, such as mushroom leather or recycled plastic fabrics. In medicine, discuss the shift towards plant-derived compounds and in-vitro testing, reducing reliance on animal-derived substances.

3

A common pitfall is failing to address the 'modern world' and 'necessity' aspects adequately, instead focusing solely on animal welfare without linking it to technological alternatives. Avoid this by explicitly discussing how contemporary innovations (e.g., biotechnology, material science) have rendered traditional animal product use less necessary, rather than just stating ethical concerns.

4

Employ a 'concession and refutation' strategy for opinion essays. Start a paragraph by briefly acknowledging a counter-argument (e.g., 'It could be argued that traditional medicines still rely on animal extracts...'). Then, immediately follow with a strong refutation or a more compelling argument supporting your main stance, using phrases like 'Nevertheless, advancements in synthetic biology demonstrate...' or 'However, this perspective overlooks the growing efficacy of...'

5

Examiners look for a nuanced discussion that goes beyond a simple 'yes' or 'no.' A band 8-9 answer will explore the complexities, perhaps acknowledging that while *some* uses remain, the *overall necessity* is diminishing due to innovation, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic and the 'extent' required by the prompt. Use precise academic language related to technology, ethics, and sustainability.

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

cellular agricultureThe production of agricultural products from cell cultures rather than from whole plants or animals.
synthetic alternativesMan-made products designed to replace natural ones, often with improved properties or ethical sourcing.
plant-based economyAn economic system increasingly reliant on products and services derived from plants rather than animals.
a compelling argument can be madeA strong and convincing point can be presented.
this notion is predicated onThis idea is based on or depends on.
ethical considerationsMoral principles or issues that need to be taken into account.
from my perspectiveIn my opinion; from my point of view.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsThe available facts and information strongly indicate.
notwithstandingIn spite of; despite.
it could be argued thatA phrase used to introduce a possible argument or point of view, often a counter-argument.

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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