Do you talk about crime often in daily conversations?
You are likely to be asked about crime on IELTS.
This topic comes up often on both Speaking and Writing!
Today you’ll learn high-scoring vocabulary for these questions.
Possible IELTS Speaking questions
Speaking Part 1
- Do you feel safe where you live? Why or why not?
- Is there a lot of crime in your area?
Speaking Part 2
- Describe a crime you heard about in the news.
- Describe a time when you felt unsafe.
Speaking Part 3 – Discussion questions
- Is punishment or rehabilitation more effective in reducing crime?
- How has technology changed the way crimes are committed?
Possible IELTS Writing Task 1 questions
Crime is also a common topic on the IELTS Writing exam!
Here are a couple of possibilities:
Academic Task 1: Graphs and charts showing crime rates
General Task 1: A letter explaining a crime you witnessed or experienced
Possible IELTS Writing Task 2 questions
Opinion essay: Some people believe that longer prison sentences are the best way to reduce crime, while others think there are more effective solutions. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Problem–Solution Essay: Crime rates among young people are increasing in many countries. What are the causes of this problem, and what measures can be taken to address it?
Advantages / Disadvantages Essay: Some countries use surveillance cameras in public places to reduce crime. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this approach?
Mixed essay (Two-Part Questions): Crime is often linked to poverty and unemployment. Why is this the case, and what can governments do to reduce crime?
#1: Crime & Criminals
Offense: a crime or illegal act
Committing a serious offense can result in a long prison sentence.
Perpetrator: the person who commits a crime
The perpetrator was identified using security footage.
Repeat offender: someone who commits crimes more than once
Repeat offenders often require rehabilitation rather than short prison terms.
White-collar crime: non-violent financial or corporate crime
White-collar crime can cause as much harm as violent offences.
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#2: Punishment & Justice
Deterrent: something that discourages crime
Severe penalties are intended to act as a deterrent to serious crime.
Proportionate punishment: punishment that fits the crime
Justice systems aim to deliver proportionate punishment.
Lenient sentence: a mild punishment
Some people argue that lenient sentences fail to discourage criminals.
Harsh sentence: a severe punishment
Violent crimes usually lead to harsh sentences.
Judicial system: the court and legal system
A fair judicial system is essential for maintaining public trust.
#3: Causes of Crime
Socioeconomic inequality: differences in income and opportunities
Socioeconomic inequality is often linked to higher crime rates.
Lack of opportunities: limited access to jobs or education
A lack of opportunities can push young people towards crime.
Substance abuse: harmful use of drugs or alcohol
Substance abuse is a major factor in violent crime.
Peer pressure: influence from friends or social groups
Teenagers may commit crimes due to peer pressure.
#4: Crime Prevention & Solutions
Rehabilitation: helping criminals reintegrate into society
Rehabilitation reduces the likelihood of reoffending.
Early intervention: addressing problems before they worsen
Early intervention can prevent at-risk youth from committing crimes.
Law enforcement: police and other authorities
Strong law enforcement is necessary to maintain public safety.
Community-based programs: local initiatives to prevent crime
Community-based programs help create safer neighbourhoods.
Takeaway
You will likely be asked about crime on the IELTS exam.
This can come up on both IELTS Speaking and Writing.
Be ready with this topic-specific vocabulary.
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