Professional athletes as role models has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 3-4 times annually in different variations. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2018-2023, this topic frequently emerges in both agree/disagree and discussion essay formats.
IELTS teacher explaining professional athletes role model essay writing techniques
Sample Question Analysis
Some people think that professional athletes make good role models for young people, while others believe they do not. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires:
- Discussion of both positive and negative viewpoints
- Clear personal stance
- Balanced analysis of the issue
- Relevant examples and support
- Coherent organization
Band 8 Sample Essay
Professional athletes’ status as role models for youth is a contentious issue that merits careful examination. While some believe these sports figures can positively influence young people, others argue they may set inappropriate examples. I believe that professional athletes can serve as effective role models when they demonstrate positive qualities both on and off the field.
Those who support athletes as role models point to several compelling factors. First and foremost, successful athletes embody important values such as dedication, perseverance, and hard work – qualities that helped them reach the pinnacle of their sports. Additionally, many professional athletes engage in charitable activities and community service, showing young people the importance of giving back to society. For example, cricket star Sachin Tendulkar has established foundations supporting underprivileged children’s education in India.
However, critics raise valid concerns about athletes’ suitability as role models. Some professional athletes have been involved in scandals, ranging from performance-enhancing drug use to personal misconduct, which can send wrong messages to impressionable youth. Furthermore, the extremely high salaries of top athletes might create unrealistic expectations and materialism among young people who may overlook the importance of education and alternative career paths.
In my opinion, while acknowledging these concerns, professional athletes can be positive role models when they demonstrate integrity and social responsibility. Their journey to success often illustrates valuable life lessons about goal-setting, resilience, and teamwork. Moreover, athletes who use their platform to advocate for social causes and maintain high ethical standards can inspire young people to become better citizens and community members.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Whether professional athletes should be considered role models for young people is a matter of debate today. Some people think they are good examples, while others disagree. I think athletes can be both good and bad role models depending on their behavior.
Many people say athletes are good role models. This is because they work very hard to achieve success in their sport. They practice every day and maintain strict discipline. Also, some athletes help poor people and donate money to charity. For example, many football players build schools and hospitals in their home countries.
On the other hand, some athletes set bad examples. They sometimes get caught using drugs or behaving badly in public. Also, they earn too much money and young people might think success only means being rich and famous. Sometimes athletes fight with other players or argue with referees, which is not good behavior.
I believe athletes can be role models if they behave well. When they show good sportsmanship and help society, they teach young people good values. But if they do bad things, they should not be considered role models. Parents and teachers should help children understand this.
Essay Analysis
Band 8 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Limitations:
- Simpler vocabulary and sentence structures
- Basic examples lacking detail
- Less sophisticated transitions
- More informal tone in places
- Limited range of discussion points
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- perseverance (n) /ˌpɜːsɪˈvɪərəns/ – continued effort despite difficulties
- pinnacle (n) /ˈpɪnəkl/ – the highest point of achievement
- materialism (n) /məˈtɪəriəlɪzəm/ – excessive concern with material possessions
- integrity (n) /ɪnˈteɡrəti/ – quality of being honest and having strong moral principles
- advocacy (n) /ˈædvəkəsi/ – public support for a cause or policy
- sportsmanship (n) /ˈspɔːtsmənʃɪp/ – fair and generous behavior in sports
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The influence of social media influencers on youth
- The importance of having positive role models in society
- The impact of celebrity culture on young people’s aspirations
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion with other learners.
