Oman – Latest IELTS Writing Task 1 & 2 – November 2024 (Academic)

WRITING TASK 1

The pie charts below shows the percentages of male and female workers employed in 3 sectors, in two countries.

Summarize the information by selecting and reporting the main features, and make comparisons where relevant.

Write at least 150 words (You should spend 20 minutes on this task).

Sample Answer

The graph provides a snapshot of the workforce distribution across three sectors—industry, services, and agriculture—for both men and women in two countries, Country A and Country B. In both countries, the service sector dominates, employing the majority of both male and female workers. In Country A, 56% of men work in services, compared to 49% of women. Women in Country A have a significant presence in agriculture, with 43% employed in this sector.

In Country B, the service sector is even more dominant, with 65% of men and 88% of women employed there. Men in both countries are more likely to be employed in industry than women. This suggests that while the service sector is a major employer for both genders, the specific roles and sectors vary between the two countries and between men and women.

WRITING TASK 2

Caring for children is very important, and therefore all new mothers and fathers should take a course in childcare. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.

Sample Answer

I believe that caring for children is indeed a critical responsibility, and while I understand the argument for new parents taking a course in childcare, I would argue that it should not be mandatory for all parents. However, I do agree that such courses could be beneficial for many new mothers and fathers, as they provide valuable insights into child development, safety, and health.

Firstly, a childcare course can offer new parents important knowledge about infant care, including nutrition, sleep routines, and basic first aid. These skills can reduce anxiety, increase confidence, and equip parents to handle early challenges more effectively. For instance, learning how to respond to a baby’s cries or how to introduce solid foods can prevent common mistakes that could affect the child’s health and well-being. Many hospitals already offer voluntary parenting workshops, which have been helpful to numerous families.

However, making childcare courses mandatory may not be necessary or realistic for all parents. People come from different backgrounds, and some may have prior experience with children or have access to reliable support systems. For example, parents who have older children or have grown up in large families might already possess practical knowledge on how to care for a newborn. Furthermore, imposing such a requirement could place unnecessary pressure on new parents, particularly those who might be overwhelmed by the challenges of childbirth and the early stages of parenting.

Additionally, there are many ways to learn about childcare other than formal courses. Books, online resources, and advice from family members and healthcare professionals can all provide valuable guidance. With modern technology, parents can easily access online videos, forums, and virtual classes that allow them to learn at their own pace and convenience.

In conclusion, while childcare courses can be very helpful and provide essential skills for new parents, I do not believe they should be mandatory. Instead, they should be widely available as an option for parents who feel they would benefit from them. Each family has unique needs and circumstances, and making such courses compulsory may not be the best solution for everyone.