If you’re preparing for the IELTS Academic Writing test, staying updated on the latest IELTS academic writing questions August 2025 will help you know what to expect and how to practice effectively.
The Academic Writing section has two tasks:
- Task 1: Summarise visual data (charts, graphs, tables, diagrams, or processes)
- Task 2: Write an essay responding to an argument or opinion
This blog includes realistic recent questions and Band 6 vs Band 8 sample answers to show the difference in vocabulary, structure, and grammar.
📊 Task 1 — Recent Question (August 2025)
Question:
The charts below show the percentages of men and women aged 60–64 in employment in four countries in 1970 and 2000.
Summarise the information by selecting and reporting the main features and make comparisons where relevant.
🥇 Band 8 Sample Answer
The bar charts compare the employment rates of men and women aged 60–64 in Japan, the USA, Germany, and France in 1970 and 2000.
Overall, male employment decreased significantly in all four countries over the period, while female employment showed mixed trends with notable growth in Japan and the USA.
In 1970, over 80% of Japanese men and around 70% of American men in this age group were employed, compared to about 60% in Germany and 55% in France. By 2000, the figures had fallen to roughly 60% in Japan, 55% in the USA, 40% in Germany, and just 30% in France.
In contrast, women’s participation rose sharply in Japan from about 25% to over 40%, and in the USA from 30% to 45%. Germany and France showed only modest increases, from around 20% to 25% and from 15% to 20% respectively.
These data indicate that while men’s employment declined, more women remained economically active in later life, especially in Japan and the USA.
✅ Why Band 8: Clear comparisons, data grouping, formal tone, varied sentence structures, accurate figures.
📝 Band 6 Sample Answer
The charts show how many men and women between 60 and 64 had jobs in 1970 and 2000 in four countries.
Men had more jobs than women in both years. But in 2000, men had fewer jobs and women had more.
Japan had the most men working, more than 80% in 1970 and about 60% in 2000. USA was second. Germany and France had fewer men. Women in Japan and USA went up. Germany and France had only small change.
In general, men went down and women went up.
⚠️ Why Band 6: Basic vocabulary, no linking words, unclear comparisons, short simple sentences.
💬 Task 2 — Recent Question (August 2025)
Question:
Some people think universities should focus on preparing students for specific careers.
Others believe universities should provide broader knowledge for personal growth.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
🥇 Band 8 Sample Answer
Many people argue that universities should train students for specific careers, while others believe they should provide broader knowledge. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Preparing students for careers benefits the economy and ensures graduates are job-ready. For example, specialised programs in engineering, nursing, and computer science help students gain the practical skills that employers demand.
On the other hand, a broad curriculum develops critical thinking, creativity, and adaptability, which are valuable in any profession. It also allows students to explore different subjects and discover their interests before specialising.
In my opinion, universities should strike a balance. Core courses can offer broad knowledge while electives build professional expertise. This approach prepares students for specific jobs without limiting their intellectual growth.
✅ Why Band 8: Balanced argument, strong linking words (on the other hand, in my opinion), precise vocabulary, complex grammar.
📝 Band 6 Sample Answer
Some people want universities to prepare students for jobs. They think students can get jobs faster. It is good for companies.
Other people want universities to teach many subjects. It helps students learn more and think better.
I think both are good. Students should learn many things and also get ready for jobs.
⚠️ Why Band 6: Very short, few examples, repetitive words (good), lacks logical connectors.
📈 Tips to Improve Academic Writing
- Analyse sample Task 1 visuals before writing
- Plan essay structure before starting Task 2
- Use linking phrases (in contrast, on the other hand, as a result)
- Focus on accuracy, not just word count
- Practice under exam timing (20 min for Task 1, 40 min for Task 2)
- Review the official IELTS Writing Band Descriptors
📚 More IELTS Academic Resources
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