The topic of giving money versus traditional gifts on special occasions is becoming increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on recent test reports and academic analyses, this theme has appeared multiple times in various forms since 2019, particularly in Asian test centers. Let’s examine a commonly encountered question format:
In many countries, it is becoming more common to give money as a gift rather than traditional presents on special occasions such as weddings, birthdays or festivals. What are the reasons for this? Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
Analysis of the Question
This question consists of two parts:
- Reasons why people prefer giving money over traditional gifts
- Personal opinion on whether this trend is positive or negative
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In recent years, there has been a noticeable shift from traditional gift-giving to monetary presents across many cultures. This essay will explore the underlying reasons for this trend and argue that while it brings certain advantages, it may potentially diminish the personal touch associated with traditional gift-giving.
The preference for giving money instead of conventional presents can be attributed to several factors. Firstly, monetary gifts offer recipients greater flexibility in purchasing what they truly need or desire, eliminating the risk of receiving unwanted items that might end up unused or discarded. Additionally, in our increasingly busy modern society, cash gifts save valuable time that would otherwise be spent searching for appropriate presents. Moreover, in many Asian cultures, giving money in red envelopes during festivals or celebrations is deeply rooted in tradition and symbolizes good fortune.
Money gifts in red envelopes during Asian celebrations
I believe this trend has both positive and negative implications for society. On the positive side, monetary gifts are highly practical and can help recipients manage their finances more effectively, particularly for significant life events like weddings where couples often need funds for their new life together. Furthermore, it reduces waste associated with unwanted gifts and their packaging. However, the shift towards monetary presents may diminish the thoughtfulness and personal connection that comes with selecting a meaningful gift. The act of choosing a present requires time, effort, and consideration of the recipient’s interests and preferences, which helps strengthen interpersonal relationships.
In conclusion, while the growing preference for monetary gifts reflects our society’s increasing pragmatism and efficiency, it is essential to maintain a balance between practicality and personal touch in gift-giving practices. Perhaps the ideal approach would be to combine both elements by accompanying monetary gifts with heartfelt messages or small meaningful tokens.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people prefer to give money as gifts on special occasions instead of traditional presents. This essay will discuss the reasons for this trend and my opinion about whether it is good or bad.
There are several reasons why people choose to give money as gifts. First, it is more convenient because we don’t need to spend time shopping for presents. Second, when we give money, the receiver can buy what they want. Also, in some countries like China and Vietnam, giving money in red envelopes is a traditional custom during festivals and celebrations.
I think giving money as gifts has both good and bad points. The good thing is that it is very practical. For example, when young couples get married, they need money to start their new life. Money is more useful than having many household items that they may not need. Also, giving money can help avoid waste because sometimes people throw away gifts they don’t like.
However, there are also some problems with this trend. The main problem is that giving money is not very personal. When we choose a gift for someone, we show that we care about them and know what they like. But when we just give money, it might seem that we didn’t put much thought into the gift.
In conclusion, while giving money as gifts is becoming more common because it is practical, I think we should try to make it more personal by adding a nice card or a small meaningful gift with the money.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used naturally and precisely
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Various complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay
- Task Response: Addresses the task but some points are underdeveloped
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization but could be more sophisticated
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary but limited range
- Grammatical Range: Mixture of simple and complex sentences with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- monetary (adj) /ˈmʌnɪtəri/ – relating to money
- pragmatism (n) /ˈpræɡmətɪzəm/ – practical approach to problems
- diminish (v) /dɪˈmɪnɪʃ/ – to become gradually less
- conventional (adj) /kənˈvenʃənəl/ – traditional and ordinary
- interpersonal (adj) /ˌɪntəˈpɜːsənəl/ – relating to relationships between people
- recipient (n) /rɪˈsɪpiənt/ – a person who receives something
- flexibility (n) /ˌfleksəˈbɪləti/ – ability to change or adapt
- implications (n) /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – possible effects or results
Looking ahead, you might encounter similar questions about changing gift-giving traditions in different cultures. Practice writing about topics such as digital gifts, experience gifts vs. material presents, or the impact of social media on gift-giving customs. Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
