WRITING 2 – OPINION ESSAY (2)

REFUTATION IN IELTS WRITING TASK 2

“When writing informational and argumentative pieces, you can ask yourself:
What points might a critical reader raise against me? What objections might
they have? Pre-empt those objections. If your writing addresses the reader's
question at the exact point when it occurs to them, then you're doing really
well.”
(Advice from IDP & British Council)

Benefits of using refutations:

● Refutation paragraphs show that the writer isn't just presenting one-

sided arguments but has also considered and analyzed opposing

viewpoints. This demonstrates strong critical thinking skills and helps
persuade the reader that the writer's position is well-thought-out and
grounded.

● Addressing counterarguments allows the writer to fortify their own

position. By refuting opposing views, authors can highlight the

strengths of their argument and the weaknesses of counterarguments,
thereby making their own stance more compelling.
Examples of paragraphs using refutation:
Physical Books vs. E-books
Argument (Logically explain why some people think that way) → Pinpoint
the flaw(s) / problem(s) of this thinking
Many argue that e-books are superior to physical books because they save
space and are more environmentally friendly. However, this argument
overlooks the tangible experience of reading a physical book. Physical books
provide a sensory experience — the smell of the pages, the heft of the book in
one's hands, and the visual satisfaction of a marked page. Furthermore, the
environmental impact of e-books is not negligible. The production of
electronic devices, their batteries, and the energy consumed when charging
and using them can have substantial environmental costs.
Straw man argument

Remote Work vs. Office Work

Some business leaders assert that office work is superior to remote work
because it fosters team collaboration and ensures employee productivity.
Nevertheless, this argument overlooks the potential benefits of remote work.
Modern technology offers a myriad of tools that facilitate online collaboration
just as effectively as in-person meetings. Additionally, many studies have
shown that remote workers often report higher levels of productivity and job
satisfaction. This is because they can craft their optimal work environment
and often face fewer daily distractions. In light of (Because of) this, it is clear
that the traditional office setup is not necessarily the gold standard for
productivity and collaboration.
🡺 How to incorporate ‘refutation’ in IELTS Writing Task 2:

● Step 1: Propose an argument (Logically explain why some people think

that way)

● Step 2: Counter-argue by pointing out any flaws or problems in this

thinking
Body 1 - Explain why some people think that way + Counter-argument
Body 2 - Another reason/ Other reasons why you disagree
Practice: The best way to solve the world’s environmental problems is to
increase the cost of fuels.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Overgeneralization >< Oversimplification
Better ways ⇒ COMPARE
Fossil fuels: coal, natural gas, oil, gasoline …
transportation + production
Outline:
Position: There are better ways to tackle environmental problems
Body 1
(Explain why some people think that increasing fuel costs could effectively
tackle environmental problems)
[basic economic principle of supply and demand]
Theoretically, … → a reduction in demand for fuels → reduce the emission of
CO2 - one of the chief causes of air pollution and global warming

However, …
- lead to macroeconomic repercussions (inflation)
- heavily reliant on fossil fuels → an increase in their prices would not
really bring down the demand for them
- many environmental problems are largely unrelated to fuel
consumption → increasing their prices could hardly improve the
situation
Body 2 (Better ways)
- Promote alternative energy → Reduce our reliance on fossil fuels →
Reduce the volume of CO2 emitted
- Raise public awareness → cultivate a more environmentally conscious
society
- Tighten / Impose stricter environmental regulations
VERSION 1
One school of thought holds that raising fuel prices is the foremost/ optimal
method of solving environmental problems. While acknowledging the reasons
for this proposal, I would argue that there are other superior solutions.

On the one hand, there are good grounds for advocating … The key reason is
that …. → Proponents of … might argue that ….
Granted/ Admittedly, proponents of increasing fuel costs might argue based
on the basic economic principle of supply and demand. Higher fuel prices,
they say, would lead to a reduction in demand for fossil fuels, which would be
synonymous with lower CO2 emissions - one of the chief contributors to
global warming and air pollution. However, this perspective overlooks our
current heavy reliance on fossil fuels, as evidenced by / seen in the fact that
almost all vehicles still use gasoline. This means modifying their prices would
have a negligible bearing on demand for them and, by extension, the
environmental status quo. It is also noteworthy that many environmental
problems like deforestation are largely unrelated to fuel consumption, so
an increase in fuel prices could hardly improve the situation.
have a bearing on sb/ smt ~ have an effect on sb/ smt
A and B → A: the former / B: the latter

Given the aforementioned limitations, I am convinced that the following

measures would be more effective in tackling environmental challenges.
First, it is imperative that greener alternatives to fossil fuels be developed and
made more commonplace. This could be key to reducing our reliance on the
latter as a source of energy, leading to reduced volumes of carbon dioxide
emitted. Such a measure should be executed in tandem with imposing more
stringent regulations on environmental protection. For example, illegal
loggers should receive life sentences rather than a fine or a few months in
prison. Such drastic actions could go a long way towards (~ very helpful)
deterring other people from causing damage to the surroundings, thereby
protecting the environment without having to interfere with the energy
market.
First, … Second, … → mechanical CC (band 6)

To summarize, I would contend that levying higher prices on fossil fuels

would fail to produce a discernible change in environmental problems, and
that these problems could be countered more effectively by immensely
investing in green energy and introducing stricter environmental policies.
Written by Thanh Nguyen (Actual band 9)
VERSION 2
The mounting environmental problems have led to the debate over what
should be done to reverse the status quo, with some contending that raising
fuel prices is the optimal answer. While acknowledging the reasons
underpinning/ for/ behind this thinking, I would argue there are other
superior solutions.

Theoretically, making fuels more expensive could deter their excessive use
and likely promote cleaner alternatives. With the higher price of gasoline,
for example, drivers may turn to electric or hybrid vehicles, or better yet,
consider cycling or public transport, consequently decreasing carbon
emissions – arguably the primary contributor to major environmental issues
like global warming. Yet, herein lies the rub: the brunt of this economic
strategy would fall unfairly on lower-income households. We risk inciting an
era of energy poverty, where heating a home or driving to work would
become a luxury, not a standard. This potential for socio-economic disparity is
a stark reminder that environmentally friendly policies must also consider
human costs.

Therefore, I propose a multi-pronged approach that places emphasis on

innovation, education, and legislation. Innovation and technological advances,
such as carbon capture, renewable energy, and energy-efficient appliances,
can reduce our reliance on fossil fuels without punishing consumers
financially. Educational programs targeting all age groups and sectors of
society can foster a culture of conservation and appreciation for our
environment. These can range from simple recycling practices to
understanding the wider impacts of climate change. Legislation, though a
tougher route, can enact enduring change. Strict regulations on industrial
pollution, single-use plastics, and deforestation, paired with incentives for
green practices, can steer us toward(s) a more sustainable path. These
solutions, when compared to merely increasing fuel prices, are broader,
more inclusive, and long-lasting. The crux is not just in reducing
consumption, but fostering a paradigm shift in our relationship with the
environment.

To summarize, whilst levying higher prices on fossil fuels could somewhat

reduce the emission of carbon dioxide, thereby mitigating such environmental
problems as global warming, this policy would concomitantly trigger a litany
of socioeconomic problems. For this reason, we should turn to other measures
that are more holistic, sustainable, and inclusive, such as spurring energy
innovation, raising public awareness, and administering more stringent
environmental regulations.
W2 Raising fuel costs.mp3
Transcript:
Raising fuel prices is often suggested as a way to protect the environment. The
idea is simple: if it costs more to buy fuel, people might think twice before
using their cars or turning up their heaters. However, it's not as
straightforward as it might seem. In this analysis, we'll explore whether
making fuel more expensive is a wise move for the sake of our planet.

First, it's important to recognize that our world runs on fuel. Cars, trucks,
buses, and factories need it to operate. This means that even if the price goes
up, people and businesses may still need to buy just as much fuel to keep their
lives and operations running. It's a bit like having a tiger by the tail; it's a
dangerous situation, but letting go could be worse. For many, there’s no easy
alternative to driving to work or using machinery that needs fuel. So, a price
hike could end up simply taking more money out of people's pockets without
really cutting down on how much fuel we use.

Moreover, increasing the price of fuel doesn't just pinch our wallets; it can
shake up the whole economy. Transporting goods becomes more expensive,
which means everything from your morning cereal to your new shoes could
cost more. This domino effect can make life harder, especially for folks who
aren’t swimming in money. Businesses, especially small ones, might find it
tough to stay afloat with these rising costs. And if companies start to struggle,
jobs could be on the line. So, raising fuel prices isn't just about paying a few
extra cents at the pump; it's about the ripple effects that touch everything
from grocery bills to job security.
Lastly, let's consider the bigger environmental picture. Yes, burning less fuel
can help reduce air pollution and slow down climate change. But there are
many other environmental problems that wouldn't be solved by pricier fuel.
For example, cutting down forests to make way for farms or houses, a process
called deforestation, wouldn't stop. Neither would light pollution, which
confuses birds and bugs, and spoils our view of the stars. And the sad situation
of animals dying out, often because their homes are destroyed or because
they're hunted, wouldn't be turned around just by changing fuel prices.

In essence, while the intention behind raising fuel prices for environmental
protection is noble, it's like fixing a leaky faucet when the whole pipe needs
replacing. The problems are much broader and deeply rooted, requiring
comprehensive solutions that address the varied issues.

W2 Raising fuel costs 2.mp3

Tackling the world’s environmental issues is a complex puzzle, and while
increasing the cost of fossil fuels might seem like an obvious piece of this
puzzle, it’s not the only one, nor is it necessarily the most effective. Let’s
explore three other pieces that can help complete the picture.

First up, let’s talk about greener alternatives to fossil fuels. Imagine the energy
sector as a garden. Right now, it's overrun with the weeds of coal and oil,
which suffocate the environment. Investing in greener energy sources is like
planting new seeds that can grow into a lush, vibrant garden without harming
the air we breathe. These seeds—solar panels, wind turbines, and
hydroelectric dams—have the potential to sprout into a future where energy
doesn’t come with a heavy cost to our planet. It’s not just about replacing the
old with the new, though. The trick is to nurture these seeds with funding,
research, and development to help them outgrow the weeds.

Next is raising public awareness. Think of this as the water and sunlight for
our garden. If people don’t know about the environmental troubles we face, or
how their actions can make a difference, they can't help the garden thrive.
Awareness campaigns are like rain showers that can refresh the public's
understanding of environmental issues. By teaching people through school
programs, media campaigns, and community events, we’re essentially
showing them how to tend to their own patches of the garden. When people
are informed, they can make better choices, like choosing a bicycle over a car,
or supporting businesses that prioritize sustainability.

Lastly, we have the garden fence—tightening regulations on environmental

protection. This is all about setting boundaries to keep out pests that might
harm our garden. Stronger laws and stricter rules act as a shield, ensuring that
companies don’t take shortcuts through our garden, trampling over
everything in their quest for profit. This can mean setting limits on emissions,
demanding better standards for waste disposal, and enforcing penalties for
those who break the rules. Regulations also ensure that everyone plays by the
same rules, making it fairer for businesses that are already environmentally
friendly.
In comparison to the blunt tool of making fossil fuels more expensive, these
solutions provide a more complete kit for environmental care. It’s the
difference between just scaring people away from fossil fuels with high prices
and giving them a map to a cleaner future. By investing in alternatives, we’re
not just saying “stop,” we’re saying “go this way instead.” By raising
awareness, we’re not just warning about a dark future, we’re lighting a path
towards a brighter one. And by tightening regulations, we’re not just
punishing the bad, we’re protecting the good.
Homework: Choose either Q1 or Q2 (Due 3/1/2024)
Question 1: Internet access helps young people and workers achieve their
education and work goals more easily than before.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
100% Agree
Some people claim that the internet has eased the path towards educational
and professional achievements for the youth and workforce. I also hold this
view.
fervently endorse this view, and this essay will shed light on it ….

On the educational front, the internet has democratized access to

information. Unlike previous generations where learning was often confined
to the four walls of a classroom or the pages of a book, young people today can
access a plethora of resources online. For instance, platforms like Khan
Academy offer free tutorials on a wide array of subjects, while massive open
online courses (MOOCs) from universities like Harvard enable students from
any corner of the globe to partake in high-quality learning experiences.
This broadens learners' horizons immeasurably/ materially / significantly,
breaking barriers of geography, wealth, and even physical ability.

By the same token, the internet has radically revolutionized the

professional realm. Online professional courses and workshops allow workers
to continue their education, acquiring new skills or certifications that make
them more competitive in the job market. In addition to this, platforms like
LinkedIn not only provide networking opportunities but also serve as a
marketplace for jobs and a platform for showcasing one's professional
achievements and portfolios. This (visibility) has aided workers in broadening
their career opportunities, something that was unfathomable a few
decades ago.
media literacy / digital literacy

However, it should be acknowledged/ noted/ recognized that internet access

alone does not guarantee success. First and foremost, individual motivation
plays a pivotal role in determining the impact of internet access. Without the
drive to utilize online resources for personal or professional development,
having access to the internet becomes largely ineffective. One should also
bear in mind that information on the internet, albeit abundant, is not always
reliable. Therefore, possessing sufficient digital literacy skills is of
paramount importance to navigate this vast landscape effectively. Without
these, individuals may struggle to make the most of the internet's potential
and could be susceptible to misinformation and digital pitfalls.
utilize & use

In conclusion, the advent of the internet has significantly simplified the

journey towards educational attainment and professional success. Its role in
providing accessible information and unparalleled career development
opportunities is a testament to its power. Nevertheless, while the internet is
a potent tool, its efficacy ultimately relies on how individuals choose to wield
it.
Word count: 357 – Written by Thanh Nguyen
Question 2: The best way for a country to prepare for the future is to invest
more resources in its young people.
To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

It is proposed/ One school of thought holds that countries should focus on

investing in their young generations to best prepare for the future. While
investment in young people is necessary, I believe it is not sufficient on its
own and should be complemented by other measures.

Overgeneralization >< Oversimplification

Investing in the younger generation is irrefutably of paramount importance

for shaping a nation's future. The logic is straightforward: today's youth
are tomorrow's leaders, innovators, and decision-makers, so prioritizing their
education and wellbeing would lay the groundwork/ foundation for (act as
a precursor to creating) a society that values critical thinking, independence,
and innovation. For example, improving educational resources can give rise to
a more knowledgeable and skilful generation, capable of driving social
progress and breakthroughs.

However, focusing on young people would only work if other aspects of

society were given priority as well. Technological development is clearly an
area that cannot be overlooked. Given the current fast-paced, tech-driven
world, it is safe to say that a country would lag far behind its global
counterparts if it turned a blind eye to advancing its technologies. By the
same token, investing in infrastructure is vital. The current state of public
services, such as healthcare and transportation, directly affects citizens'
quality of life. The consequences of ignoring the deterioration of these
essential services could be widespread dissatisfaction and unrest,
ultimately hindering a nation's development.

To summarize, I am convinced that directing more resources towards today’s

young generation, albeit crucial for the future prospect of a nation, is simply
not enough. A more comprehensive approach would combine this focus with
strategic investments in technology and infrastructure, ensuring a well-
rounded foundation for a country's future prosperity.

Word count: 265 – Written by Thanh Nguyen

Tony Grace: Succeed in IELTS

albeit ~ although
S + V + O, albeit + Adj/ Adv + Noun phrase
S, albeit + adj/ adv+ Noun phrase, V + O
HOMEWORK: CHOOSE EITHER 3 or 4
Exam question 3
Society is based on rules and laws. It could not function if individuals were
free to do whatever they wanted to do. To what extent do you agree or
disagree?

Exam question 4
Many customs and traditional ways of behavior are no longer relevant to
modern life and not worth keeping.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
technology
Example-led
Body 1- Argument: many are outdated and no longer fit into the fast-paced,
technologically advanced world we live in
Example:
1) lengthy wedding ceremonies -irrelevant: today’s time-constrained
society
2) formal dining etiquette - irrelevant: more casual, fast-paced dining
culture

Body 2 - Refute: Cultural significance & the sense of identity

Example:
1) Traditional ceremonies like marriage rituals: deeply rooted in a
society’s history + strengthen family ties and community bonds → not
really ab the pomp and circumstance but ab the transfer of cultural
values and the celebration of heritage
 2) behaviors like formal dining etiquette: which folks to use -teach respect,
discipline, and mindfulness in social settings.

Body 3- Adapt these traditional practices to fit our modern lifestyles

Example:
1) traditional marriage ceremonies: can be condensed to…
2) dining etiquette: emphasizing respect and mindfulness over rigid rules