In recent years, the topic of technology’s impact on communication has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam trends and expert predictions, this theme is expected to remain a popular choice for future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question that closely resembles those encountered in actual IELTS exams.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that the internet and mobile phones have improved communication among people, while others believe that the quality of communication has decreased. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a balanced argument about the effects of modern technology on communication. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the positive impacts of the internet and mobile phones on communication
- Explore the negative effects on the quality of communication
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Now, let’s examine three sample essays of varying quality, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The digital revolution, spearheaded by the internet and mobile phones, has undeniably transformed the landscape of human interaction. While some argue that these technologies have enhanced our ability to connect, others contend that they have degraded the quality of our communications. In my opinion, while modern technology has certainly expanded our capacity to interact, it has also introduced new challenges that require careful navigation.
Proponents of digital communication emphasize its unprecedented ability to bridge distances and facilitate instant connections. The internet and smartphones have made it possible to maintain relationships across continents, share information in real-time, and access a global network of knowledge and perspectives. This instantaneous connectivity has revolutionized both personal and professional spheres, enabling remote work, international collaborations, and the nurturing of long-distance relationships that would have been impractical in previous eras.
People using internet and mobile phones for communication
However, critics argue that the quality of these interactions has suffered in the digital age. They point to the prevalence of superficial exchanges, the misinterpretation of tone in text-based communications, and the erosion of face-to-face interaction skills. The convenience of digital communication may lead to a preference for quick, shallow interactions over more meaningful, in-depth conversations. Moreover, the constant connectivity can result in information overload and a decreased ability to be fully present in real-world interactions.
A person feeling confused and frustrated while reading a text message
In my view, the impact of technology on communication is nuanced and largely dependent on how we choose to utilize these tools. While it’s true that digital platforms can facilitate superficial exchanges, they also provide opportunities for rich, meaningful interactions when used thoughtfully. The key lies in leveraging the benefits of technology while consciously preserving the depth and quality of our communications.
In conclusion, the internet and mobile phones have fundamentally altered the way we communicate, offering both unprecedented opportunities and new challenges. As we continue to navigate this digital landscape, it is crucial to harness the connective power of technology while remaining mindful of the importance of genuine, high-quality interactions. The future of communication will likely depend on our ability to strike a balance between digital convenience and meaningful human connection.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with sophisticated words and phrases such as “spearheaded,” “degraded,” and “unprecedented.”
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors.
- Development of Ideas: Each point is fully elaborated with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The internet and mobile phones have changed the way people communicate. Some people think this change is good, while others believe it has made communication worse. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, technology has made it easier to stay in touch with people. We can now talk to friends and family anywhere in the world instantly using video calls or messaging apps. This is especially helpful for people who live far apart. Also, social media allows us to share our lives with many people at once, which can be convenient.
Friends and family connecting through video calls and messaging apps
However, there are also negative effects. Some people argue that online communication is not as deep or meaningful as face-to-face talks. It’s easy to misunderstand someone’s tone in a text message, which can lead to conflicts. Additionally, people might spend too much time on their phones and ignore the people around them in real life.
In my opinion, technology has both improved and worsened communication. While it’s great that we can easily connect with people far away, we should be careful not to let it replace real-life interactions. It’s important to find a balance between using technology and talking to people in person.
To conclude, the internet and mobile phones have changed communication in both good and bad ways. We need to use these tools wisely to get the benefits while avoiding the downsides.
(Word count: 245)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good control of language but lacks some of the sophistication of a higher band score:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but with less variety than the higher band essay.
- Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be elaborated on more extensively.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, internet and mobile phones are very popular. Some people think they make communication better, but others say they make it worse. I will talk about both sides.
Internet and phones are good for communication because they are fast and easy. We can talk to anyone in the world quickly. It’s cheap too. We can use video calls to see our friends and family who live far away. This is very nice.
But some people think these things are bad for talking. They say people don’t talk face-to-face anymore. Sometimes people spend too much time on their phones and don’t talk to people near them. This can make relationships worse.
People engrossed in their phones, ignoring others around them
I think internet and phones are mostly good. They help us stay connected with people. But we should also remember to talk to people in real life. It’s important to use technology in a good way.
In conclusion, internet and mobile phones have good and bad points for communication. We should use them carefully to get the good things and avoid the bad things.
(Word count: 170)
Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay
This essay demonstrates a more limited command of language and ideas:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task but in a more simplistic manner.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure but lacks sophisticated linking words.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is simple and repetitive.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentences are mostly simple with limited use of complex structures.
- Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but lack depth and elaboration.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Digital revolution (noun) – /ˈdɪdʒɪtl revəˈluːʃn/ – The widespread adoption and use of digital technologies
- Spearhead (verb) – /ˈspɪəhed/ – To lead or organize
- Instantaneous (adjective) – /ˌɪnstənˈteɪniəs/ – Occurring or done instantly
- Superficial (adjective) – /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl/ – Lacking depth of character or understanding
- Erode (verb) – /ɪˈrəʊd/ – To gradually destroy or diminish
- Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning
- Leverage (verb) – /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ – To use something to maximum advantage
- Harness (verb) – /ˈhɑːnɪs/ – To control and make use of
In conclusion, the topic of technology’s impact on communication remains a crucial area for IELTS candidates to master. As we’ve seen through these sample essays, the key to success lies in addressing all aspects of the question, using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and developing ideas fully with relevant examples.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of social media on interpersonal relationships
- The role of technology in education and learning
- The effects of constant connectivity on work-life balance
Remember, the best way to improve your writing skills is through consistent practice. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will help you refine your skills and boost your confidence for the IELTS Writing Task 2.