Technology’s impact on social connections is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice due to its relevance in our increasingly digital world. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this type of task.
Technology and Social Connections
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that modern technology has a negative effect on social relationships. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on how modern technology affects social relationships. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
- Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
- Discuss both positive and negative effects to demonstrate a balanced view
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s digital age, the impact of modern technology on social relationships has become a topic of intense debate. While some argue that technology has negatively affected our social connections, I believe that its influence is more nuanced, offering both advantages and challenges to how we interact with one another.
On one hand, technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we communicate, often leading to concerns about the quality of our relationships. Social media platforms and messaging apps, for instance, have made it easier to stay in touch with a large number of people, but this can sometimes result in superficial interactions. The constant connectivity may also lead to a phenomenon known as “phubbing,” where individuals neglect face-to-face conversations in favor of their digital devices, potentially straining personal relationships.
However, it would be shortsighted to overlook the numerous ways in which technology has enhanced our social connections. Video calling applications have revolutionized long-distance relationships, allowing friends and families separated by vast distances to maintain close bonds. Moreover, online communities have provided platforms for people with shared interests to connect, offering support and fostering relationships that might not have been possible in the pre-digital era. For individuals with social anxiety or mobility issues, technology has opened up new avenues for social interaction that were previously inaccessible.
Furthermore, technology has played a crucial role in maintaining social connections during unprecedented times, such as the recent global pandemic. Virtual meetups, online learning platforms, and remote work tools have enabled people to continue their social and professional lives despite physical restrictions, demonstrating the positive potential of technology in preserving and even strengthening social bonds.
In conclusion, while it is true that the misuse or overreliance on technology can negatively impact social relationships, its overall effect is largely dependent on how we choose to utilize it. By being mindful of our digital habits and leveraging technology to enhance rather than replace traditional forms of communication, we can harness its power to foster meaningful connections in the modern world.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Modern technology has changed the way we communicate and interact with others. While some people think it has a negative effect on social relationships, I partially agree with this view.
There are several ways in which technology can negatively affect social relationships. Firstly, people often spend too much time on their smartphones or computers, which can lead to less face-to-face interaction with friends and family. For example, it’s common to see groups of people sitting together but all looking at their phones instead of talking to each other. Secondly, social media can create unrealistic expectations and feelings of jealousy or inadequacy, which can harm relationships.
However, technology also has positive effects on social connections. It allows us to stay in touch with friends and family who live far away through video calls and messaging apps. This is especially helpful for people who work or study abroad. Additionally, social media and online forums can help people with similar interests connect and form new friendships.
Another benefit is that technology can make it easier for shy or introverted people to socialize. They can communicate online without the pressure of face-to-face interactions, which can help build their confidence.
In conclusion, while technology can have some negative effects on social relationships, it also offers many benefits. The key is to use technology in moderation and not let it replace real-life interactions completely. By finding a balance, we can enjoy the advantages of modern technology while maintaining strong social connections.
(Word count: 249)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The higher band essay has more sophisticated paragraph development.
Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “nuanced,” “superficial interactions,” and “unprecedented times.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler but still effective language.
Grammar: Both essays demonstrate good control of grammar, but the higher band essay shows more complex sentence structures and a wider range of tenses.
Task Response: Both essays address the question directly, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more balanced and in-depth analysis.
Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words effectively, but the higher band essay shows more sophisticated paragraph and idea linkage.
Essential Vocabulary
Here are some key terms related to technology and social connections:
Social media (noun) /ˈsəʊ.ʃəl ˈmiː.di.ə/ – Websites and apps that enable users to create and share content or participate in social networking.
Virtual reality (noun) /ˈvɜː.tʃu.əl riˈæl.ə.ti/ – Computer-generated simulation of a three-dimensional image or environment.
Connectivity (noun) /ˌkɒn.ekˈtɪv.ə.ti/ – The state of being connected or interconnected.
Digital detox (noun) /ˌdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl ˈdiː.tɒks/ – A period during which a person refrains from using electronic devices.
Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪ.bəˌbʊl.i.ɪŋ/ – The use of electronic communication to bully a person.
Online community (noun) /ˌɒn.laɪn kəˈmjuː.nə.ti/ – A group of people with common interests who use the internet to communicate.
Phubbing (noun) /ˈfʌb.ɪŋ/ – The practice of ignoring one’s companion or companions in order to pay attention to one’s phone or other mobile device.
In conclusion, the topic of technology’s impact on social connections is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of social media in modern relationships
- The impact of technology on family dynamics
- How online communication differs from face-to-face interaction
- The effects of technology on workplace relationships
We encourage you to write your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.