Sports have long been recognized as a powerful tool for fostering international understanding and cooperation. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, making it essential for test-takers to be well-prepared. Based on past exam trends and the current global emphasis on sports diplomacy, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze high-scoring responses to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that international sporting events help to promote understanding between countries. Others think that these events can lead to increased hostility between nations. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on the impact of international sporting events on relations between countries. It’s crucial to address both perspectives and provide your own opinion, supported by relevant examples and reasoning.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
International sporting events have long been a subject of debate regarding their impact on global relations. While some argue that these competitions foster understanding between nations, others contend that they can exacerbate tensions. In my opinion, the positive effects of international sports far outweigh any potential negative consequences.
Proponents of international sporting events emphasize their role in bridging cultural gaps. When athletes from diverse backgrounds come together to compete, they showcase not only their athletic prowess but also their national cultures and values. This exposure can lead to increased cultural awareness and appreciation among participants and spectators alike. For instance, the Olympic Games often feature opening ceremonies that celebrate the host country’s heritage, providing a platform for cultural exchange on a global scale.
Moreover, these events can foster a sense of global unity and shared humanity. The World Cup, for example, brings together nations from every continent, creating a temporary global community united by a passion for football. This shared experience can transcend political and cultural differences, promoting a sense of camaraderie among people who might otherwise have little in common.
On the other hand, critics argue that international sporting competitions can intensify rivalries and exacerbate existing tensions between nations. Historical animosities or current political conflicts may be brought to the forefront during these events, potentially leading to hostile behavior among fans or even athletes. The infamous “Soccer War” between El Salvador and Honduras in 1969, which was partly triggered by a World Cup qualifier match, serves as an extreme example of how sports can inflame international tensions.
However, I believe that such negative outcomes are exceptions rather than the rule. The overwhelming majority of international sporting events conclude peacefully and contribute positively to global understanding. They provide a controlled environment where nations can engage in healthy competition, fostering respect for rules, fair play, and sportsmanship. These values, when internalized by participants and spectators, can translate into improved international relations off the field.
In conclusion, while it is true that international sporting events can occasionally lead to increased hostility, their overall impact on promoting understanding between countries is undeniably positive. By bringing people together, celebrating diversity, and fostering a sense of global community, these events play a crucial role in building bridges between nations and cultures.
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a Band 8-9 score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, and ideas are logically linked.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “cultural awareness,” “global unity,” and “sportsmanship.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly, including complex sentences and various tenses.
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Examples: The essay provides relevant, specific examples to support its arguments, such as the Olympic Games and the World Cup.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
International sporting events are a big topic of discussion when it comes to their effect on relationships between countries. Some people think these events help countries understand each other better, while others believe they can make countries dislike each other more. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, international sports can bring people from different countries together. When athletes from all over the world meet at events like the Olympics, they get to know each other and learn about different cultures. This can help people understand and respect each other more. For example, when a country hosts the World Cup, people from many nations come to visit and experience the local culture, which can lead to better understanding.
However, some people argue that these events can cause problems between countries. Sometimes, old rivalries between nations can come out during sports competitions, leading to arguments or bad feelings. Fans might get too excited and say or do things that offend people from other countries. This happened in some football matches where fans from different countries got into fights.
The influence of global sporting events on international relations can be both positive and negative. While they can create tension, I believe that most of the time, they do more good than harm. Sports teach people about fair play and respecting rules, which are important for getting along with others. When athletes show good sportsmanship, it sets a good example for everyone watching.
In my opinion, international sporting events are mostly helpful for promoting understanding between countries. Even though there can be some problems, the benefits of bringing people together and learning about different cultures are more important. These events give countries a chance to show their best side to the world and make new friends.
To conclude, while international sporting events can sometimes lead to disagreements, I think they generally help countries understand each other better. By focusing on the positive aspects of competition and cultural exchange, these events can play a big role in improving relationships between nations.
Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates qualities that justify a Band 6-7 score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the development of ideas is less thorough compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the progression of ideas is less smooth. Paragraphing is appropriate, but linking could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses an adequate range of vocabulary, with some attempt at less common words. However, the language is less precise and varied compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are fewer advanced grammatical constructions compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Examples: The essay provides some examples, but they are less specific and developed compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary
- foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – to encourage the development of something
- exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – to make a problem or bad situation worse
- prowess (noun) /ˈpraʊəs/ – great ability or skill
- camaraderie (noun) /ˌkæməˈrɑːdəri/ – a feeling of friendliness towards people that you work or spend time with
- animosity (noun) /ˌænɪˈmɒsəti/ – a strong feeling of dislike and anger
- sportsmanship (noun) /ˈspɔːtsmənʃɪp/ – fair and generous behavior or treatment of others, especially in a sports contest
- internalize (verb) /ɪnˈtɜːnəlaɪz/ – to accept or absorb an idea, opinion, belief, etc. so that it becomes part of your character
- rivalry (noun) /ˈraɪvəlri/ – a situation in which people, businesses, etc. compete with each other for the same thing
In conclusion, mastering the art of writing about how sports promote international understanding is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. By analyzing these sample essays and understanding the key elements that contribute to different band scores, you can improve your own writing skills. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the influence of sports on national identity or government investment in sports and arts. These related themes will help you build a comprehensive understanding of the role of sports in society and international relations.
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the strategies and vocabulary you’ve learned, preparing you for success in your IELTS Writing Task 2.