Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on How the Internet is Reshaping Modern Communication

The topic of how the internet is reshaping modern communication is increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. This theme reflects the significant impact of digital technology on our daily lives and society at large. Based on recent trends, we can expect this topic to appear frequently in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests and analyze it in depth.

Some people think that the internet is making communication between people less personal. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on whether the internet is making communication less personal. It’s an agree/disagree type question, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant examples and explanations. The key aspects to consider are:

1. The impact of the internet on communication
2. The concept of “personal” communication
3. Both positive and negative effects of internet-based communication

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-band response.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The proliferation of the internet has undeniably transformed the way we communicate, leading some to argue that it has made our interactions less personal. While I acknowledge that certain aspects of online communication can seem impersonal, I largely disagree with this viewpoint. I believe that the internet has, in many ways, enhanced our ability to maintain and deepen personal connections.

Firstly, the internet has made it possible to stay in touch with friends and family regardless of geographical distances. Through video calls, instant messaging, and social media platforms, we can now share our daily experiences, thoughts, and emotions in real-time with loved ones across the globe. This level of constant connectivity allows for a depth and frequency of communication that was previously impossible, thereby strengthening personal relationships rather than diminishing them.

Moreover, the internet has created new avenues for forming meaningful connections. Online communities centered around shared interests, support groups, and professional networks have enabled individuals to find like-minded people they may never have encountered otherwise. These digital spaces often foster deep, personal bonds as people share their passions, struggles, and aspirations with others who truly understand them.

It is true that certain forms of internet-based communication, such as brief social media interactions or impersonal email exchanges, can seem less personal than face-to-face conversations. However, this is more a reflection of how individuals choose to use these tools rather than an inherent flaw in internet communication itself. When used thoughtfully, digital platforms can actually enhance personal communication by allowing for more frequent check-ins, the easy sharing of photos and videos, and the ability to have in-depth conversations at times that are convenient for both parties.

In conclusion, while the internet has changed the landscape of communication, I strongly believe that it has not made our interactions less personal overall. Instead, it has provided us with powerful tools to maintain and strengthen personal connections across distances and to form new, meaningful relationships. The key lies in how we choose to utilize these digital platforms to enhance, rather than replace, our personal interactions.

(Word count: 310)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9):

1. Clear position: The writer clearly disagrees with the statement and maintains this position throughout.
2. Coherent structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences, and a conclusion.
3. Cohesive devices: Phrases like “Firstly,” “Moreover,” and “In conclusion” are used effectively.
4. Lexical resource: Advanced vocabulary is used accurately (e.g., “proliferation,” “undeniably,” “geographical distances”).
5. Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly.
6. Task response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Internet reshaping communication

The internet has changed how we communicate a lot in recent years. Some people think this has made our communication less personal. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think the internet has some positive effects on personal communication.

On one hand, it’s true that some types of internet communication can feel less personal. For example, when we use social media, we often post updates or comments that are not directed at any specific person. This can make our interactions feel more general and less intimate. Also, emails and text messages don’t have the same emotional connection as talking face-to-face or on the phone. We can’t see facial expressions or hear tone of voice, which are important parts of personal communication.

However, the internet has also made it easier to stay in touch with people we care about. Video calls allow us to see and talk to friends and family who live far away, which feels very personal. We can share photos and updates about our lives instantly, helping us feel connected to others even when we’re not physically together. The internet also lets us find and connect with people who have similar interests or experiences, which can lead to new friendships and personal connections.

I think whether internet communication is personal or not depends on how we use it. If we only use quick messages and don’t make an effort to have deeper conversations, then it can become impersonal. But if we use the internet to have meaningful conversations and share important parts of our lives, it can actually help us stay more personally connected with others.

In conclusion, while some aspects of internet communication can be less personal, I believe it also offers many ways to maintain and even strengthen personal connections. The key is to use internet communication tools in ways that enhance our personal relationships rather than replace face-to-face interactions.

(Word count: 294)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:

1. Position: The writer presents a balanced view, partly agreeing and partly disagreeing.
2. Structure: The essay has a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
3. Cohesion: Basic linking words are used (e.g., “On one hand,” “However,” “In conclusion”).
4. Vocabulary: The vocabulary is appropriate but less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
5. Grammar: There’s a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control.
6. Task response: The essay addresses the task, but ideas could be further developed and supported.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃən/ – rapid increase or spread
2. Undeniably (adverb) – /ˌʌndɪˈnaɪəbli/ – certainly or undoubtedly
3. Geographical distances (noun phrase) – /ˌdʒiːəˈɡræfɪkl ˈdɪstənsɪz/ – physical separation between places
4. Connectivity (noun) – /ˌkɒnekˈtɪvəti/ – the state of being connected or interconnected
5. Avenues (noun) – /ˈævənjuːz/ – ways or means
6. Foster (verb) – /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – encourage or promote the development of
7. Inherent (adjective) – /ɪnˈhɪərənt/ – existing as a natural or permanent feature
8. Landscape (noun) – /ˈlændskeɪp/ – a particular area of activity or interest
9. Utilise (verb) – /ˈjuːtəlaɪz/ – make practical and effective use of
10. Intimate (adjective) – /ˈɪntɪmət/ – closely acquainted; familiar or close

Conclusion

The topic of how the internet is reshaping modern communication is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, consider practicing with similar topics such as:

1. The impact of social media on personal relationships
2. The effect of technology on work-life balance
3. The role of the internet in education and learning

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to clearly state your position, provide well-developed ideas with relevant examples, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures accurately. Practice writing essays on these topics and feel free to share your attempts in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.