Should There Be Stricter Laws on Cyberbullying? IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays for Different Band Scores

Cyberbullying has become an increasingly prevalent issue in our digital age, prompting discussions about the need for stricter legislation. This topic has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions several times in recent years, and its relevance is likely to grow as technology continues to advance. Based on past exam trends, we can expect to see questions related to cyberbullying laws appearing with moderate frequency in future IELTS tests.

Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:

Some people believe that stricter laws should be implemented to combat cyberbullying. Others argue that education and awareness are more effective solutions. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question presents a balanced argument task, asking candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on addressing cyberbullying. The key aspects to consider are:

1. The proposal for stricter laws against cyberbullying
2. The alternative approach of education and awareness
3. The requirement to discuss both perspectives
4. The need to provide your personal opinion

A well-structured essay should address all these points while maintaining a clear and coherent argument throughout.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

In the digital age, cyberbullying has emerged as a significant concern, prompting debates about the most effective ways to combat this issue. While some advocate for stricter legislation, others argue that education and awareness campaigns are more beneficial. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of stricter laws argue that legal consequences can serve as a powerful deterrent to potential cyberbullies. They believe that implementing more severe penalties for online harassment would make individuals think twice before engaging in such behavior. Moreover, robust legal frameworks could provide victims with clearer pathways for seeking justice and protection. For instance, countries like South Korea have introduced specific anti-cyberbullying laws, which have shown some success in reducing online harassment cases.

On the other hand, those who favor education and awareness campaigns contend that addressing the root causes of cyberbullying is more effective in the long term. They argue that many people, especially young individuals, may not fully understand the impact of their online actions. By focusing on digital literacy and empathy-building programs in schools and communities, society can foster a culture of respect and responsibility in the digital sphere. Such initiatives could potentially prevent cyberbullying before it occurs, rather than merely punishing offenders after the fact.

In my opinion, a combined approach that incorporates both stricter laws and educational efforts would be the most effective strategy. While legal measures can provide immediate consequences and protection, education is crucial for long-term behavioral change. By implementing comprehensive cyberbullying legislation alongside targeted awareness programs, societies can create a multi-faceted approach to tackle this complex issue.

In conclusion, addressing cyberbullying requires a nuanced and holistic strategy. By balancing legal deterrents with educational initiatives, we can work towards creating a safer and more respectful online environment for all users.

(Word count: 298)

Comparison of cyberbullying laws and education awareness approaches

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates several characteristics that contribute to its high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. Paragraphs are logically structured, and cohesive devices are used effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “robust legal frameworks,” “digital literacy,” “empathy-building programs”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy.

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

Nowadays, cyberbullying is a big problem that many people are worried about. Some think we need stricter laws to stop it, while others believe education and awareness are better solutions. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who want stricter laws say that this will make cyberbullies afraid to do bad things online. If there are hard punishments, maybe people will think twice before they bully others on the internet. Also, better laws can help victims get justice easier. For example, some countries have made special laws about cyberbullying, and this has helped reduce the problem a little bit.

On the other side, people who support education think that teaching people is more important. They say that many cyberbullies, especially young ones, don’t understand how much they hurt others. If we teach students in schools about being kind online and show them the effects of cyberbullying, we can stop the problem before it starts. This might work better than just punishing people after they do something wrong.

In my opinion, I think we need both laws and education to fight cyberbullying. Laws can help protect people right now, but education can change how people think in the long run. If we use both ways together, we can make the internet a safer place for everyone.

To conclude, cyberbullying is a difficult problem that needs more than one solution. By using both strict laws and good education, we can help create a better online world where people respect each other more.

(Word count: 267)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates several characteristics that place it in the Band 6-7 range:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion of each viewpoint is less developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “also” and “on the other side”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some minor errors that do not impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Main points are supported, but the examples and explanations are less detailed and specific compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

Education and awareness for cyberbullying prevention

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully a person
2. Legislation (noun) /ˌledʒɪsˈleɪʃən/ – laws, considered collectively
3. Deterrent (noun) /dɪˈterənt/ – a thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something
4. Digital literacy (noun phrase) /ˈdɪdʒɪtəl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to use information and communication technologies
5. Empathy (noun) /ˈempəθi/ – the ability to understand and share the feelings of another
6. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
7. Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole
8. Multi-faceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features

In conclusion, the topic of cyberbullying legislation is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Candidates should be prepared to discuss various approaches to combating cyberbullying, including legal measures, educational initiatives, and combined strategies. To practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.

How globalization affects cultural preservation in developing countries is another important topic that may appear in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider how issues like cyberbullying and cultural preservation are interconnected in our increasingly globalized world.