Economic downturns and their effects on global trade have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic has appeared in various forms over the years, reflecting its relevance to current global economic trends. Based on past exam patterns and the increasing importance of global economic issues, we can expect similar questions to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a specific question that has been featured in recent tests:
Some people think that in the age of the internet there is no need for libraries in the community, while others believe that libraries are still important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting views on the relevance of libraries in the modern digital age. The task is to:
- Explain why some people believe libraries are no longer necessary due to the internet
- Present arguments for the continued importance of libraries
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, analyzing why they achieve their respective scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the digital era, the role of traditional libraries has become a subject of debate. While some argue that the internet has rendered physical libraries obsolete, others maintain that these institutions remain crucial to communities. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Those who believe libraries are no longer necessary often cite the vast array of information available online. The internet provides instant access to a wealth of knowledge, from academic journals to e-books, often at no cost. Furthermore, digital resources are constantly updated, ensuring users have access to the most current information. This convenience and breadth of content lead some to question the need for physical libraries.
However, proponents of libraries argue that these institutions offer unique benefits that cannot be replicated online. Firstly, libraries provide a quiet, focused environment for study and research, which many find more conducive to learning than home or public spaces. Additionally, librarians offer expert guidance in navigating and evaluating information sources, a skill increasingly important in the age of misinformation. Libraries also play a crucial role in promoting literacy and fostering a love of reading, particularly among children and underserved communities.
In my opinion, while the internet is an invaluable resource, libraries continue to serve essential functions in society. They act as community hubs, offering free access to technology and educational resources for those who may not have them at home. Moreover, libraries preserve cultural heritage and provide a physical space for community events and programs. The tactile experience of browsing physical books also offers a unique pleasure that digital formats cannot replicate.
In conclusion, although the internet has revolutionized access to information, libraries remain indispensable institutions. They provide not only access to knowledge but also foster community engagement and support lifelong learning. As such, I believe that libraries and the internet should be seen as complementary resources rather than competing entities.
(Word count: 309)
Economic downturns affecting global trade
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay achieves a high band score for several reasons:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “However,” “Furthermore,” “In conclusion”).
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “obsolete,” “proponents,” “misinformation,” “underserved communities”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately.
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
These days, some people think libraries are not important because of the internet, but others believe libraries are still necessary. I will discuss both opinions and give my own idea.
On the one hand, many people say we don’t need libraries anymore because of the internet. The internet has a lot of information that we can find easily and quickly. We can read books online and find answers to our questions without going to a library. Also, the internet is always available, but libraries have opening hours.
On the other hand, libraries are still important for many reasons. First, libraries have quiet places to study, which is good for students. Second, librarians can help people find good information and teach them how to use computers. Libraries also have free books and computers for people who can’t afford them at home. This is especially important for poor people and children.
In my opinion, I think libraries are still important even though the internet is useful. Libraries help communities by giving people a place to meet and learn. They also help children develop a love for reading, which is very important. The internet is good, but it can’t replace everything that libraries do.
To conclude, while the internet is very helpful, libraries still play an important role in our communities. They offer services that the internet cannot, and they help many people, especially those who don’t have access to the internet or books at home.
(Word count: 253)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay achieves a band score of 6-7 for the following reasons:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is organized logically with clear paragraphing. It uses some cohesive devices, though not as sophisticatedly as the Band 8-9 essay.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there are some minor errors.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly, but with less depth and fewer examples compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Libraries and internet as information sources
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Obsolete (adjective) – /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer in use or no longer useful
- Proponent (noun) – /prəˈpəʊnənt/ – a person who advocates for something
- Misinformation (noun) – /ˌmɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃn/ – false or inaccurate information
- Literacy (noun) – /ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to read and write
- Conducive (adjective) – /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible
- Indispensable (adjective) – /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ – absolutely necessary
- Complementary (adjective) – /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentri/ – combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other
- Tactile (adjective) – /ˈtæktaɪl/ – related to the sense of touch
- Underserved (adjective) – /ˌʌndəˈsɜːvd/ – not provided with adequate services or facilities
- Obsolescence (noun) – /ˌɒbsəˈlesns/ – the process of becoming obsolete or outdated
In conclusion, the debate over the relevance of libraries in the digital age is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various factors. As you practice writing essays on this topic, remember to balance your arguments, provide specific examples, and clearly state your own opinion. You can expect similar questions in future IELTS exams that ask you to compare traditional institutions or practices with their modern, digital counterparts.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your writing and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2. Additionally, you may want to explore related topics such as the effects of a global economic recession on developing nations to broaden your understanding of global economic issues that could appear in future IELTS exams.