Youth activism has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This theme reflects the growing influence of young people in addressing social issues worldwide. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to youth activism and social change in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past tests and analyze sample responses for different band scores.

Some people think that young activists are having a positive impact on social issues, while others believe that their actions are ineffective and may even be harmful. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints on the effectiveness of young activists in addressing social issues. The task is to:

1. Explore the positive impacts of youth activism
2. Discuss potential ineffectiveness or harmful effects of youth activism
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

Let’s examine three sample essays that address this question, each targeting a different band score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the world has witnessed a surge in youth activism, with young people taking center stage in addressing various social issues. While some argue that these young activists are making a positive impact, others contend that their actions are ineffective or even detrimental. In my opinion, youth activism has largely been a force for positive change, despite some potential drawbacks.

Those who support youth activism point to the significant achievements of young activists in raising awareness and driving change on crucial issues. For instance, Greta Thunberg’s climate strikes have catapulted climate change to the forefront of global discourse, pressuring governments and corporations to take action. Similarly, the March for Our Lives movement in the United States has brought renewed attention to gun violence, leading to policy changes in several states. These examples demonstrate the power of youth activists to mobilize public opinion and effect tangible change.

On the other hand, critics argue that youth activism can be ineffective or counterproductive. They contend that young activists often lack the experience and nuanced understanding necessary to address complex social issues. Moreover, some believe that the confrontational tactics employed by some youth movements may alienate potential allies and harden opposition. There are concerns that the emotional appeals of young activists might oversimplify issues and lead to hasty, ill-conceived solutions.

While these criticisms have some merit, I believe that the positive impact of youth activism far outweighs its potential drawbacks. Young activists bring fresh perspectives, unbridled enthusiasm, and a sense of urgency to social issues that have long been neglected or addressed inadequately by older generations. Their ability to leverage social media and the role of social media in fostering social movements has revolutionized the way social causes are promoted and supported. Furthermore, youth engagement in social issues fosters a sense of civic responsibility and empowers future leaders to tackle global challenges.

In conclusion, while youth activism may have some limitations, its overall impact on social issues has been overwhelmingly positive. By inspiring millions, challenging the status quo, and driving meaningful change, young activists have proven themselves to be a powerful force for social progress. As society continues to grapple with complex issues, the energy and idealism of youth activism will remain essential in shaping a better future for all.

Young activists rallying for social change

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Youth activism has become a hot topic in recent years, with some people believing it has a positive impact on social issues, while others think it is ineffective or even harmful. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On the positive side, young activists have brought attention to important issues like climate change and social justice. For example, Greta Thunberg’s school strikes have made more people aware of the urgency of climate action. Young people are often passionate and use social media effectively to spread their message. Their energy and fresh ideas can inspire others and lead to real changes in society.

However, some people argue that youth activism is not very effective. They say that young people don’t have enough experience or knowledge to understand complex issues fully. Sometimes, their actions might be seen as disruptive or disrespectful to older generations. There are also concerns that the effects of celebrity culture on youth aspirations might lead some young activists to focus more on gaining fame than on making real change.

In my opinion, youth activism is generally a positive force in society. While it’s true that young people might lack experience, their passion and idealism can bring much-needed attention to important issues. They often see problems from a different perspective and can come up with innovative solutions. Moreover, effects of social media on political engagement among youth have shown that young people can mobilize large groups quickly and effectively.

In conclusion, although youth activism has some drawbacks, I believe its benefits outweigh the negatives. Young activists play a crucial role in raising awareness and pushing for change on important social issues. Their involvement is essential for creating a better future for everyone.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, many young people are becoming activists for social issues. Some people think this is good, but others say it’s not helpful and might be bad. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.

Young activists can do good things. They care a lot about problems like climate change and equality. They use social media to tell many people about these issues. For example, Greta Thunberg made many people think about climate change. Young people have new ideas and lots of energy to make changes.

But some people don’t like youth activism. They say young people don’t know enough about complicated problems. Sometimes young activists might annoy older people or cause trouble. Some people worry that young activists just want to be famous and don’t really help.

I think youth activism is mostly good. Young people bring new ideas and care a lot about making the world better. They might not know everything, but they can learn. Their energy helps make important changes happen.

In conclusion, even though youth activism has some problems, I believe it helps more than it hurts. Young activists are important for making the world better in the future.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
• Presents a clear position throughout the essay
• Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control
• Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy
• Has excellent paragraph organization and cohesion

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Addresses all parts of the task, although some parts may be more fully covered than others
• Presents a relevant position, although the conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
• Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some errors in word choice
• Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
• Has clear overall progression but may lack cohesion in places

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
• Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
• Uses a limited range of vocabulary; errors may occur when expressing complex ideas
• Uses a limited range of structures with some errors that may impede understanding
• Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Activism (noun) – /ˈæk.tɪ.vɪ.zəm/ – The use of direct and noticeable action to achieve a result, usually a political or social one
2. Ineffective (adjective) – /ˌɪn.ɪˈfek.tɪv/ – Not producing the intended result; not effective
3. Detrimental (adjective) – /ˌdet.rɪˈmen.təl/ – Causing harm or damage
4. Mobilize (verb) – /ˈməʊ.bə.laɪz/ – To organize people to support a particular political aim or social change
5. Confrontational (adjective) – /ˌkɒn.frʌnˈteɪ.ʃən.əl/ – Behaving in an aggressive way that is likely to start an argument
6. Alienate (verb) – /ˈeɪ.li.ə.neɪt/ – To make someone feel isolated or estranged
7. Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
8. Catapult (verb) – /ˈkæt.ə.pʌlt/ – To suddenly cause someone or something to be in a particular situation
9. Tangible (adjective) – /ˈtæn.dʒə.bəl/ – Clear and definite; real
10. Civic responsibility (noun phrase) – /ˈsɪv.ɪk rɪˌspɒn.sɪˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – The duties and obligations of citizens in society

In conclusion, the topic of youth activism and its impact on social issues is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as the role of social media in activism, the balance between youth idealism and experience, and the long-term effects of youth-led movements on society. Remember to always analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures appropriate to your target band score.

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.