The topic of happiness comparison between generations has appeared frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in agree/disagree and discussion essays. Based on analysis of past papers, this theme has been featured approximately 3-4 times annually since 2019, suggesting its continued relevance for future tests.
Analysis of Recent IELTS Essay Question
Some people think that people were happier in the past compared to now. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on whether people were happier in the past
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Compare happiness levels between different time periods
- Consider various aspects affecting happiness (economic, social, technological)
Comparing happiness levels between past and present generations
Band 8.5 Model Answer
I strongly disagree with the notion that people were happier in the past compared to the present day. While nostalgia might paint a rosy picture of previous times, objective analysis reveals that modern life offers numerous advantages that contribute to greater overall happiness.
Firstly, unprecedented advances in healthcare and living standards have significantly reduced physical suffering and extended life expectancy. Modern medicine can cure or manage conditions that were once fatal or debilitating, while improved sanitation and nutrition have enhanced quality of life. This reduction in physical hardship and health-related anxiety undeniably contributes to greater contentment in contemporary society.
Moreover, today’s world offers unparalleled opportunities for personal growth and self-actualization. Access to education, career choices, and the freedom to pursue individual interests have expanded dramatically. People can now choose their life paths, relationships, and lifestyles with far greater autonomy than in the past, when social constraints and limited options often forced individuals into predetermined roles.
Additionally, technological progress has enriched our lives in countless ways. While some argue that technology alienates people, it has actually enhanced connectivity, allowing individuals to maintain relationships across vast distances and access endless sources of entertainment and information. These advantages were simply unavailable to previous generations.
Therefore, while each era has its challenges, the present day offers more tools and opportunities for achieving happiness than ever before. The key lies not in romanticizing the past but in leveraging modern advantages while maintaining perspective on what truly matters in life.
Band 7.5 Model Answer
I disagree with the statement that people were happier in the past. Although previous generations had certain advantages, modern life provides more opportunities for happiness and fulfillment.
One major reason why people today can be happier is better living conditions. Modern housing, healthcare, and education have improved significantly compared to the past. For example, most people now have access to clean water, electricity, and medical care, which were luxuries for many in previous generations.
Furthermore, technological advancement has made life more convenient and entertaining. People can now communicate easily with loved ones anywhere in the world through video calls and messaging apps. They can also access various forms of entertainment and learning opportunities through the internet, which wasn’t possible before.
However, modern life does present some challenges to happiness. Stress levels have increased due to work pressure and social media comparison. People often feel overwhelmed by information overload and the fast pace of life. Despite these challenges, they have better tools and resources to manage stress, such as mental health support and work-life balance options.
In conclusion, while each period has its own challenges, contemporary society offers more pathways to happiness through improved living standards, technological conveniences, and personal development opportunities.
Modern lifestyle advantages contributing to happiness
Band 6.5 Model Answer
I don’t agree that people were happier in the past. I think people now have many things that make them more happy than before.
First, we have better medicine now. In the past, many people died from simple sickness, but now doctors can cure many diseases. Also, we live longer than before. This makes people feel more safe and happy.
Second, we have more money and things now. Most people can buy food, clothes, and phones easily. In the past, many people were poor and couldn’t buy what they needed. Now, more people can enjoy good life.
Also, we can do many fun things now. We can watch movies on Netflix, play games on phones, and talk to friends online. In the past, people didn’t have these things for entertainment.
But some things are harder now. Work is more stressful and life moves very fast. Sometimes people feel tired from using too much technology. But I think these problems are smaller than the good things we have now.
So, I think people now can be more happy than people in the past because we have better life, more money, and more fun things to do.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear position with well-developed arguments
- Cohesive paragraphing with smooth transitions
- Excellent topic-specific vocabulary
- Error-free grammar
Band 7.5 Essay Analysis
- Good vocabulary range with some sophistication
- Clear organization and logical flow
- Some complex sentences but less consistent
- Occasional minor errors
- Good use of examples
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic paragraph organization
- Mostly simple sentences
- Some grammar errors
- Limited range of expressions
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- unprecedented (adj) /ʌnˈpres.ɪ.den.tɪd/ – never having happened or existed before
- self-actualization (n) /ˌself.æk.tʃu.əl.aɪˈzeɪ.ʃən/ – the realization of one’s full potential
- autonomy (n) /ɔːˈtɒn.ə.mi/ – freedom to determine one’s own actions
- alienate (v) /ˈeɪ.li.ə.neɪt/ – to cause someone to feel isolated
- romanticizing (v) /rəʊˈmæn.tɪ.saɪ.zɪŋ/ – to think about or describe something as better than it really is
In conclusion, when practicing this topic, consider exploring related themes such as:
- Technology’s impact on modern happiness
- Work-life balance in different eras
- Social connections past vs present
- Mental health awareness across generations
Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
