Every month a handful of Task 2 themes resurface in test centres around the world. The list below covers the ten themes appearing most often in April 2026, with a question type labelled on each so you can practise the format as well as the topic. Use this page as a focused practice plan for the next four weeks: pick three or four themes you find weakest, write a timed essay on each, and run it through a band-graded checker before moving on.
1. AI in Education
Some people believe artificial intelligence will transform classrooms by personalising learning for every student. Others argue that AI tools weaken critical thinking and reduce contact between teachers and learners. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question typeDiscussion essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
2. Biodiversity Loss
In recent years many countries have seen a sharp decline in plant and animal species. What are the main causes of this decline, and what measures could governments and individuals take to address it?
Question typeProblem-solution essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
3. Government Versus Individual Responsibility for the Environment
Some people argue that only governments and large companies can meaningfully address environmental problems, and that individual actions make little difference. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Question typeOpinion essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
4. Housing and Home Ownership
In many countries, owning a home rather than renting is seen as very important. Why might this be the case, and is this attitude a positive or negative development for society?
Question typeTwo-part question
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
5. Social Media and Mental Health
Many people believe that social media platforms are damaging the mental health of young people. Others argue that these platforms offer real benefits such as connection and support. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question typeDiscussion essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
6. Ageing Populations
In many developed countries, people are living longer than ever before. Do the advantages of having an increasing proportion of older people in society outweigh the disadvantages?
Question typeAdvantages and disadvantages essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
7. Overtourism and Cultural Heritage
Popular tourist destinations are increasingly struggling with the effects of mass tourism on local communities and historic sites. What problems does overtourism cause, and what steps could be taken to manage it more sustainably?
Question typeProblem-solution essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
8. Remote Work and the Shorter Working Week
An increasing number of companies now allow employees to work from home or to follow a shorter working week. Do the advantages of these flexible working arrangements outweigh the disadvantages?
Question typeAdvantages and disadvantages essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
9. Children, Smartphones and Screen Time
Some people argue that parents should strictly limit the amount of time children spend on smartphones and other screens each day. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Question typeOpinion essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
10. University Degrees Versus Practical Skills
Some people think universities should focus on giving graduates the practical skills employers need. Others argue that the role of a university is to support knowledge and learning for their own sake. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question typeDiscussion essay
See Band 7 sample essay on this theme →
How These Themes Shift From Month to Month
Trends move slowly. Roughly half of these themes (AI, environment, social media, ageing, education) reappear month after month with slight reframings. The other half rotate in based on news cycles: housing affordability, overtourism and the shorter working week have all gained ground in 2026 because they map directly onto stories candidates are reading every day. The practical takeaway is to organise your preparation around the durable themes first, then add the seasonal ones in the final weeks before your test.
We will publish a fresh list at the end of every month so you always know what is in rotation. Past months will be linked from the section below as they are released.
Get Your Essay Scored, Free
Practising with the right prompts is half the battle. The other half is honest, band-graded feedback. Try the IELTS essay checker to get a Band 1 to 9 score on each of the four marking criteria, plus targeted suggestions, in under a minute.
Browse Other Months
Other monthly lists will be linked here as they are published.