Break the Band 7 cap.

“Many workers hide mental-health problems from their employers. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue that companies should switch to a four-day working week. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people argue that climate change is the responsibility of individuals, while others think only governments can solve it. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many countries, families are having fewer children than they did in the past. What are the causes, and what effects does this have on society?”

“Some people believe smartphones are damaging social interaction. Do you agree or disagree?”

“In the future all cars, buses and trucks will be driverless. The only people travelling inside these vehicles will be passengers. Do you think the advantages of driverless vehicles outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people believe that professionals, such as doctors and engineers, should be required to work in the country where they did their training. Others believe they should be free to work in another country if they wish. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“Some university students want to learn about other subjects in addition to their main subjects. Others believe it is more important to give all their time and attention to studying for a qualification. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“In many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of having an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people think that competition at work, at school and in daily life is a good thing. Others believe that we should try to cooperate more, rather than competing against each other. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“In their advertising, businesses nowadays usually emphasise that their products are new in some way. Why is this? Do you think it is a positive or negative development?”

“Many manufactured food and drink products contain high levels of sugar, which causes many health problems. Sugary products should be made more expensive to encourage people to consume less sugar. Do you agree or disagree?”

“A letter to an insurance company claiming for damaged luggage”

“A letter to a former colleague asking for advice about a Master’s degree”

“A letter to a friend asking for career advice”

“A letter to the editor of a local newspaper about cycling lanes”

“A letter to the local council about poor street lighting in your area”

“A letter apologising to a friend for missing their wedding”

“An apology letter for missing an important work meeting”

“A letter to your manager asking to change your working hours”

“A letter to your manager requesting unpaid leave for a family event”

“A letter suggesting improvements to your local library”

“A letter to an airline about luggage lost on a recent flight”

“A complaint letter to a hotel manager about a disappointing stay”

“A letter to your bank about an incorrect charge on your account”

“In the modern world, many traditional customs and ways of life are disappearing. Why is this happening? Is it a positive or negative development?”

“Some people believe that animal testing for medical research is necessary and should continue. Others think it is cruel and should be banned. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Many people today buy products, use them for a short time, and then throw them away. What problems does this 'throwaway culture' cause, and what can be done to address them?”

“Some people believe that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others think there are better ways to reduce crime. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“Some people think that dangerous sports such as boxing, rock climbing, and skydiving should be banned. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some governments spend large amounts of money on training elite athletes for international competitions, while there are many ordinary people with poor access to sports facilities. Do the advantages of prioritising elite sport outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Many traditional festivals and celebrations are becoming more commercial and less focused on their original meaning. What problems does this cause, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“When people move to a new country, some believe they should fully adopt the customs and lifestyle of the host country. Others think they should maintain their own cultural traditions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many cities, governments have installed CCTV cameras in public places to help reduce crime. Some people think this is a good idea, while others believe it restricts people's freedom. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“The gap between the richest and poorest people in many countries is widening. What problems does this cause, and what solutions can you suggest to reduce this gap?”

“Cybercrime is a growing problem around the world. What problems does cybercrime cause, and what measures can governments and individuals take to protect themselves?”

“Some people believe that immigration has a mainly positive effect on the economy of the host country. Others think it has a mainly negative effect. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“Some people think that museums and art galleries should focus on showing local art and history rather than works from other countries. Others believe museums should display art from around the world. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many countries, people are eating more fast food and this is causing health problems. Some people think that governments should tax fast food to discourage people from eating it. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“In many countries, the number of crimes committed by teenagers is increasing. What are the causes of this trend, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some people believe that consumer societies — where buying and owning material goods is seen as very important — lead to less happiness overall. Do the advantages of consumer societies outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In many supermarkets today, food is imported from all over the world. Some people think this is a negative development because it harms the environment and local farmers. Do the advantages of importing food outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some people think that mothers should stay at home with their young children while fathers go out to work. Others believe that both parents should share childcare and work responsibilities equally. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Many countries are raising the retirement age because people are living longer. What problems does a rising retirement age cause, and what measures can governments take to address these problems?”

“As populations in many countries grow older, there is a debate about who should be responsible for caring for the elderly. Some people think families should take care of their elderly relatives, while others believe the government should provide this care. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In many parts of the world, women are still underrepresented in senior management and political leadership positions. Why does this problem persist, and what can be done about it?”

“The maps show the layout of a university campus in 2005 and 2025.”

“In many workplaces, older employees now report to younger managers. What problems does this create, and what can be done?”

“Some believe standardised tests are the fairest way to assess students, while others argue they fail to measure real ability. Discuss both views.”

“Many young people now trust influencers more than traditional advertising. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Some argue cities should be designed for pedestrians, not cars. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some believe public protests are an essential part of democracy; others say they cause too much disruption. Discuss both views.”

“Some argue remote work damages team cohesion and company culture. To what extent do you agree?”

“Many believe that schools should focus more on life skills such as cooking, budgeting, and basic law. To what extent do you agree?”

“A university degree no longer guarantees a good job. Do you agree, and what should young people do instead?”

“Some argue that reducing meat consumption is essential for the environment. Do you agree, and what can governments do?”

“Self-driving cars will be common within a decade. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“Some argue widespread CCTV cameras make cities safer; others say they invade privacy. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some argue all children should be required to be vaccinated; others believe parents should choose. Discuss both views.”

“Many cities are growing so large that they face serious infrastructure problems. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“High-rise buildings are the only practical solution to urban housing shortages. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some say families should look after elderly relatives, while others believe this is the state's responsibility. Discuss both views.”

“Traditional cuisines are disappearing under the influence of international fast-food chains. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue that cities need more parks and green spaces, even if that means less housing. Do you agree or disagree?”

“In modern cities, many people feel isolated despite being surrounded by others. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“International travel has many cultural benefits, but its environmental cost is enormous. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some say workers should specialise in one career for life; others believe people should change careers several times. Discuss both views.”

“News programmes increasingly resemble entertainment. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some people believe that children should start formal education as early as possible. Others think they should not begin until at least age seven. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.”

“People spend less time with extended family. Why is this happening, and is it a positive or negative change?”

“Hosting international sporting events such as the Olympic Games can be very expensive for a country. Do the benefits of hosting such events outweigh the costs?”

“Some argue that fathers should share childcare equally with mothers. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some argue people should work for themselves rather than for large companies. Do you agree?”

“Many fish stocks around the world are collapsing because of overfishing. What are the main causes, and what can be done?”

“Some parents choose private education for their children, while others prefer public schools. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some companies are exploring drone delivery for online shopping. What are the advantages and disadvantages?”

“Some governments require workers to take a minimum amount of annual leave. To what extent do you agree with this policy?”

“Some say unpaid internships exploit young workers; others see them as a chance to gain experience. Discuss both views.”

“Traditional gender roles are changing rapidly. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some argue testing products on animals is necessary, while others believe it is unethical. Discuss both views.”

“Some countries impose strict term limits on political leaders, while others allow them to remain in office indefinitely. Discuss both views.”

“Streaming services have changed how musicians earn money. Has this been good or bad for the music industry?”

“Some cities are encouraging more 24-hour businesses and activities. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“Some say travel is more rewarding when you are young, while others believe older people benefit more. Discuss both views.”

“Some believe the death penalty deters serious crime, while others see it as inhumane. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some say historic buildings should be preserved at all costs; others argue cities need modern development. Discuss both views.”

“Foreign companies investing in developing countries bring jobs but also drive out local businesses. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In some countries, an increasing number of mothers return to work soon after having a child. Is this a positive or negative trend?”

“Budget airlines have made travel cheap for millions but also worsen climate change. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some believe governments should spend more on preventing illness than on treating it. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some say young people should be required to do volunteer work in their community. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some say tourists should make an effort to learn the language of countries they visit. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some governments censor films and books that they consider offensive. Is this ever justified?”

“Some argue that multicultural societies are stronger; others say cultural differences cause conflict. Discuss both views.”

“Many manufacturing jobs are disappearing because of automation. What are the consequences for society, and what can be done?”

“Some predict cash will disappear entirely within a generation. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“The rapid replacement of electronic devices creates huge amounts of e-waste. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“The world's growing population is putting pressure on natural resources. What are the main causes, and what solutions can you suggest?”

“Some people argue zoos play a vital role in protecting endangered species; others believe they are cruel and unnecessary. Discuss both views.”

“Many regions face severe water shortages. What are the main causes, and what can be done about it?”

“Some argue history should be compulsory in school, while others say students should focus on practical subjects like science. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some say formal education is the best preparation for work, while others believe real-world experience matters more. Discuss both views.”

“Many governments are raising the retirement age as populations live longer. Is this a positive or negative development?”

“More young people are moving to cities, leaving rural areas with ageing populations. What are the causes, and what can be done?”

“Some argue tourists should be required to learn about local customs before visiting a country. To what extent do you agree?”

“Tech companies collect vast amounts of personal data. Some say this is dangerous; others say users gain useful services in return. Discuss both views.”

“Some say healthcare should be entirely free; others believe individuals are responsible for their own health. Discuss both views.”

“Some say governments should fund the arts; others think public money should be spent on more essential services. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some countries require all citizens to vote in elections. Do you think this is a good policy?”

“Some people prefer traditional or alternative medicine over conventional treatment. What are the reasons for this, and is it a positive or negative trend?”

“Modern life is destroying traditional cultures. To what extent do you agree?”

“Some governments want to ban private cars from city centres. Do the advantages outweigh the disadvantages?”

“Some argue multinational companies harm developing countries; others say they bring valuable investment. Discuss both views.”

“Some people think the global spread of English damages other languages. Others see it as a positive force for communication. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“Some say parents should be legally responsible for their children's behaviour. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some people say that advertising is extremely successful at persuading us to buy things. Other people think that advertising is so common that we no longer pay attention to it. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

“Some believe universities should focus on one subject in depth, while others say they should offer a broad range of subjects. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”

“In some countries, owning a home rather than renting one is very important for people. Why might this be the case? Do you think this is a positive or negative situation?”

“It is important for people to take risks, both in their professional lives and their personal lives. Do you think the advantages of taking risks outweigh the disadvantages?”

“In some cultures, children are often told that they can achieve anything if they try hard enough. What are the advantages and disadvantages of giving children this message?”

“Governments should impose higher taxes on unhealthy food. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”

“Some say globalisation has destroyed traditional cultures, others say it has enriched them. Discuss both and give your view.”

“The line graph shows the percentage of the workforce working remotely at least once per week in three countries from 2015 to 2023.”

“The line graph shows global recorded music streaming revenue from 2015 to 2023.”

“The pie charts show the global market share of mobile operating systems in 2015 and 2023.”

“The maps show two possible locations for a new airport terminal.”

“The diagram shows the stages and equipment used in the production of cement.”

“The diagram shows the process by which waste paper is recycled.”

“The diagram shows how a hydroelectric dam generates electricity.”

“The maps show two possible sites for a new supermarket in a town.”

“The pie charts show the proportion of internet users in different age groups in 2010 and 2020.”

“The pie charts show the distribution of employment across three economic sectors in 2000 and 2020.”

“The pie charts show how government spending was divided among five categories in 2000 and 2020.”

“The pie charts show the percentage of total energy consumed from different sources in 1990 and 2020.”

“The bar chart shows the prison population per 100,000 inhabitants in five countries in 2010 and 2020.”

“The diagram shows the stages in the production of chocolate.”

“The maps show an island before and after the construction of facilities for tourists.”

“The maps show the centre of the town of Halton in 2000 and today.”

“The table shows the five largest merchandise exporters in the world and their share of world exports in 2020.”

“The line graph shows the percentage of seats held by women in the national parliament of four countries from 2000 to 2020.”

“The line graph shows the fertility rate in five countries from 1970 to 2020.”

“The line graph shows general government gross debt as a percentage of GDP in four countries from 2000 to 2020.”

“The maps show the village of Stokeford in 1930 and today.”

“The diagram shows how aluminium drinks cans are recycled and remanufactured.”

“The table shows the share of daily commutes by mode of transport in three cities in 2020.”

“The pie charts show how the UK generated its electricity in 2000 and 2020.”

“The line graph shows the number of international tourist arrivals in four countries from 2000 to 2020.”

“The line graph shows GDP per capita (purchasing power parity) in four countries from 1990 to 2020.”

“The line graph shows the share of renewable energy in total final energy consumption in four countries from 1990 to 2020.”

“The line graph shows CO2 emissions per capita in four countries from 1990 to 2020.”

“The bar chart shows military spending as a share of GDP in five countries in 2010 and 2020.”

“The bar chart shows foreign direct investment inflows as a share of GDP in five economies in 2010 and 2020.”

“The bar chart shows the share of renewable energy in total final energy consumption in five countries in 2010 and 2020.”

“The table shows average annual hours worked and statutory paid leave in five countries in 2019.”

“The table shows the number of feature films produced and box office revenue in five countries in 2019.”

“The bar chart shows health expenditure per person in five countries in 2019.”

“The table shows international tourist arrivals and tourism receipts in five countries in 2019.”