Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, profoundly influencing how we interact and connect with others. This topic, exploring how modern communication technology affects human relationships, has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past trends and current relevance, it’s highly likely to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a real IELTS question on this subject and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that modern communication technology is having a negative effect on social relationships. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to express their opinion on whether modern communication technology negatively impacts social relationships. Key points to consider:
- Understand the term “modern communication technology” (e.g., smartphones, social media, instant messaging).
- Consider both positive and negative effects on social relationships.
- Decide your stance: agree, disagree, or partially agree.
- Provide relevant examples and explanations to support your argument.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s digital age, the impact of modern communication technology on social relationships has become a topic of intense debate. While some argue that these technologies are eroding the quality of our interpersonal connections, I believe that their effects are largely positive, albeit with some caveats.
Undoubtedly, modern communication tools have revolutionized the way we interact, enabling us to maintain relationships across vast distances and time zones. Social media platforms, video calls, and instant messaging apps allow friends and family to stay connected regardless of geographical barriers. This has been particularly evident during global crises, such as the recent pandemic, where technology became a lifeline for maintaining social bonds. Moreover, these tools have expanded our social circles, allowing us to form new relationships with people from diverse backgrounds, fostering cultural exchange and understanding.
However, it would be remiss to ignore the potential drawbacks. The convenience of digital communication can sometimes lead to a preference for virtual interactions over face-to-face meetings. This may result in a lack of depth in some relationships, as non-verbal cues and the intimacy of personal presence are lost. Additionally, the constant connectivity facilitated by smartphones can lead to decreased quality time in physical gatherings, as individuals may be distracted by their devices.
Nevertheless, I contend that the benefits outweigh the drawbacks. The key lies in mindful usage of these technologies. By setting boundaries and prioritizing meaningful interactions, we can harness the power of modern communication tools to enhance our relationships rather than detract from them. For instance, using video calls to have in-depth conversations with distant loved ones or utilizing social media to organize community events can strengthen social bonds.
In conclusion, while modern communication technology presents some challenges to traditional forms of social interaction, its overall impact on relationships is positive. The onus is on individuals to use these tools judiciously, balancing digital connections with real-world interactions to cultivate rich and meaningful relationships in the digital age.
(Word count: 309)
Technology's impact on social relationships
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Modern communication technology has significantly changed the way people interact with each other. While some believe it has a negative effect on social relationships, I partially agree with this view.
On one hand, technology has made it easier for people to stay in touch. Social media and messaging apps allow us to connect with friends and family anywhere in the world. This is especially helpful for those who live far from their loved ones. For example, international students can easily talk to their parents back home using video calls. Also, these technologies help people make new friends with similar interests, even if they live in different countries.
However, there are some negative aspects to consider. People may spend too much time on their phones or computers, which can reduce face-to-face interactions. This overreliance on digital communication might lead to weaker social skills in real-life situations. Additionally, social media can create unrealistic expectations about relationships, as people often show only the best parts of their lives online.
Another problem is that technology can be distracting during social gatherings. It’s common to see groups of friends sitting together but paying more attention to their phones than to each other. This behavior can make relationships less meaningful and personal.
In conclusion, while modern communication technology has both positive and negative effects on social relationships, I believe the impact depends on how we use it. If people use technology in moderation and prioritize real-life interactions, it can enhance rather than harm their relationships. It’s important to find a balance between digital and face-to-face communication to maintain strong social connections.
(Word count: 263)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many people think modern communication technology is bad for social relationships. I think this is partly true, but not completely.
There are some good things about technology for relationships. We can talk to friends and family who live far away easily. For example, I use WhatsApp to chat with my cousin in another country every day. Also, social media helps us find new friends who like the same things as us.
But there are also problems. Some people spend too much time on their phones and don’t talk to people face-to-face. This can make it hard to make real friends. Also, sometimes people feel sad when they see their friends having fun on social media and they are not there.
Another bad thing is that people often use phones when they are with friends or family. This is not polite and can make others feel ignored. I have seen this happen many times in restaurants.
In conclusion, I think modern communication technology can be good and bad for relationships. It depends on how we use it. We should try to use technology in a good way and also spend time with people in real life. This way, we can have good relationships both online and offline.
(Word count: 202)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills with:
- Clear organization and logical flow of ideas
- Advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- In-depth analysis of both positive and negative aspects
- Relevant examples and personal insights
- A well-balanced argument leading to a nuanced conclusion
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows good writing ability with:
- Clear structure and coherent paragraphs
- Good use of linking words and phrases
- A mix of simple and complex sentences
- Relevant examples, though less developed than the Band 8-9 essay
- A clear position, but with less nuanced analysis
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates adequate writing skills with:
- Basic organization of ideas
- Simple vocabulary and sentence structures
- Some relevant examples, but less detailed
- A clear opinion, but limited development of arguments
- Some errors in grammar and word choice, but the meaning is clear
Comparison of essay quality across band scores
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Interpersonal connections (noun) – relationships between people
/ˌɪntəˈpɜːsnl kəˈnekʃnz/Revolutionize (verb) – to change something completely and fundamentally
/ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/Intimacy (noun) – closeness in personal relationships
/ˈɪntɪməsi/Mindful (adjective) – careful and intentional
/ˈmaɪndfʊl/Judiciously (adverb) – with good judgment or sense
/dʒuːˈdɪʃəsli/Overreliance (noun) – excessive dependence on something
/ˌəʊvərɪˈlaɪəns/Distracting (adjective) – preventing concentration or attention
/dɪˈstræktɪŋ/Moderation (noun) – the avoidance of excess or extremes
/ˌmɒdəˈreɪʃn/Prioritize (verb) – to give importance to something over other things
/praɪˈɒrətaɪz/Enhanced (adjective) – improved or increased in quality, value, or extent
/ɪnˈhɑːnst/
The effect of social media on human interaction is a closely related topic that you might encounter in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on various aspects of technology and relationships, such as:
- The impact of social media on family dynamics
- How smartphones affect face-to-face communication
- The role of technology in long-distance relationships
- The influence of dating apps on modern romance
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.
The influence of technology on human relationships is an evolving topic, and staying informed about current trends and research will help you write more insightful essays. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!