In recent years, the topic of “Dependency vs Independence in Modern Society” has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This theme explores the delicate balance between reliance on others and self-sufficiency in our interconnected world. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, we can expect this topic to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Exam
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that in modern society we are more dependent on each other, while others think that people have become more independent. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that people are more dependent on each other in modern society
- Discuss the opposing view that people have become more independent
- Provide and justify their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a Band 8-9 level response.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In the contemporary world, the debate between increased interdependence and growing independence has gained significant traction. While some argue that modern society has fostered greater reliance on others, others contend that individuals have become more self-sufficient. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Those who believe in increased dependency often point to the complex nature of modern life. Our interconnected global economy and specialized job markets mean that we rely on countless individuals worldwide for our daily needs. From the food we eat to the technology we use, almost every aspect of our lives is touched by the efforts of others. Moreover, the rise of social media and digital communication has created a society where constant connection and validation from peers seem essential, further reinforcing our dependence on others.
Conversely, proponents of increased independence argue that technological advancements have empowered individuals to be more self-reliant. The internet has democratized access to information, allowing people to learn new skills, solve problems, and make informed decisions without relying on traditional experts or institutions. Additionally, the gig economy and remote work opportunities have enabled many to become their own bosses, reducing dependence on traditional employment structures. The growing emphasis on personal growth and self-improvement also suggests a trend towards greater individual autonomy.
In my opinion, modern society exhibits a paradoxical blend of both increased dependency and independence. While we are undeniably more interconnected and reliant on global systems, we also possess unprecedented tools for self-sufficiency. The key lies in striking a balance – leveraging our connections and resources while cultivating personal skills and resilience. This balanced approach allows us to benefit from collective progress while maintaining individual agency.
In conclusion, the question of dependency versus independence in modern society is not a binary one. Rather, it reflects the complex, multifaceted nature of our evolving world. By recognizing and navigating this duality, we can harness the benefits of both interconnectedness and self-reliance to create a more robust and adaptable society.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a nuanced personal opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas flow logically, with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, such as “traction,” “self-sufficient,” “democratized,” and “paradoxical.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It uses a variety of complex structures correctly, with only minor errors, if any.
Critical Thinking: The essay goes beyond surface-level analysis, recognizing the complexity of the issue and offering a balanced perspective.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
In today’s world, there is a debate about whether people are more dependent on each other or more independent. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Some people think we are more dependent on others in modern society. They say that our lives are connected to many people around the world because of globalization. For example, the clothes we wear and the phones we use are often made in different countries. Also, many jobs today need teamwork, so we have to rely on our colleagues. Social media makes us want to stay connected with friends all the time, which shows we depend on others for social needs.
On the other hand, some believe that people have become more independent. The internet has made it easier for us to find information and learn new things by ourselves. We can now work from home or start our own businesses online, which means we don’t need to depend on traditional jobs. Many people also focus on personal development and try to solve their problems without asking for help.
In my opinion, both views are partly true. We are more connected to others in some ways, but we can also do many things on our own. I think it’s important to find a balance between working with others and being independent. We should use the benefits of cooperation while also developing our own skills and confidence.
To conclude, modern society has both increased dependency and independence. The best approach is to combine the advantages of both to create a better life and society.
(Word count: 262)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good qualities but has room for improvement:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
Lexical Resource: It uses a good range of vocabulary, 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 of grammar.
Critical Thinking: While the essay presents relevant ideas, the analysis is not as deep or nuanced as in the higher band essay.
Band 5-6 Sample Essay
Nowadays, people have different ideas about dependency and independence in our society. Some think we depend more on others, but some think we are more independent. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who say we are more dependent think like this because of how the world works now. We buy things from many countries and need other people to do their jobs so we can have what we need. Also, we use social media a lot to talk to friends, which shows we need other people.
But other people think we are more independent now. They say this because we can find information on the internet easily. We can learn new things without going to school. Some people can work from home or start small businesses online. This makes them feel more independent.
I think both ideas are correct in some ways. We need other people for many things, but we can also do more things by ourselves now. It’s good to work with others and also be able to do things alone.
In conclusion, our society has both dependency and independence. We should try to use both in a good way to make our lives better.
(Word count: 190)
Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay
This essay demonstrates basic competence but has several limitations:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main points of the question, but the ideas are underdeveloped.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure, but paragraphing and cohesive devices are limited.
Lexical Resource: It uses simple vocabulary with some repetition. There’s a lack of more sophisticated terms.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay primarily uses simple sentence structures with limited complexity.
Critical Thinking: The analysis is superficial, lacking the depth and nuance of higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Interdependence (noun) /ˌɪntədɪˈpendəns/ – the dependence of two or more people or things on each other
- Self-sufficiency (noun) /ˌself.səˈfɪʃ.ən.si/ – the ability to provide for oneself without help from others
- Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊ.bəl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence
- Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒn.ə.mi/ – the right or condition of self-government
- Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/ – the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties
- Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪn.tə.kəˈnek.tɪd/ – mutually joined or related
- Empowerment (noun) /ɪmˈpaʊə.mənt/ – the process of becoming stronger and more confident
- Paradoxical (adjective) /ˌpær.əˈdɒk.sɪ.kəl/ – seemingly contradictory but possibly true
- Democratize (verb) /dɪˈmɒk.rə.taɪz/ – to make something available to all people
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
Conclusion
The topic of dependency vs independence in modern society is a complex and nuanced one that requires careful consideration. As we’ve seen from the sample essays, a high-scoring response will not only address both perspectives but also provide a balanced and insightful personal opinion.
To prepare for potential questions on this topic, consider practicing with these related prompts:
Some people argue that technology has made us more independent, while others claim it has increased our dependence on others. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
In what ways has globalization affected the balance between dependency and independence in modern societies?
Do you think the trend towards more independent work (such as freelancing and remote work) is beneficial for society? Why or why not?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about having good ideas, but also about expressing them clearly, coherently, and accurately. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.