Technology’s impact on global communication is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic’s frequency in past exams suggests it will likely continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant essay question and analyze sample responses across different band scores.
Analyzing the Essay Question
Some people think that the increasing use of technology to communicate globally is having a negative effect on local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on whether global communication technology negatively impacts local communities. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide balanced arguments
- Support your points with relevant examples
- Maintain a coherent structure throughout your essay
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Sample
In today’s interconnected world, the proliferation of technology for global communication has undeniably transformed how we interact across borders. While some argue that this shift negatively affects local communities, I largely disagree with this viewpoint. I believe that the benefits of global communication technology far outweigh any potential drawbacks for local communities.
Firstly, global communication technology enhances cultural exchange and understanding within local communities. Through social media platforms, video conferencing, and instant messaging apps, people can now easily connect with individuals from diverse backgrounds worldwide. This exposure broadens perspectives and fosters a more inclusive mindset among local community members. For instance, a small town in rural Japan might now have residents who regularly interact with friends in Brazil or Nigeria, leading to a more globally aware and culturally sensitive local population.
Moreover, technology facilitates the preservation and promotion of local cultures on a global stage. Local artisans, musicians, and small businesses can now showcase their unique products and talents to a worldwide audience, potentially boosting the local economy and instilling a sense of pride in community traditions. A prime example is how indigenous communities in Australia use platforms like YouTube to share their ancient stories and customs, ensuring their cultural heritage remains vibrant and accessible to future generations.
However, it is important to acknowledge that excessive reliance on global communication technology can potentially lead to a degree of disconnect within local communities. Face-to-face interactions might decrease as people become more engrossed in their digital devices. Nevertheless, this challenge can be mitigated through conscious efforts to balance online and offline interactions, such as community-organized events that encourage in-person engagement while leveraging technology for broader outreach.
In conclusion, while there may be some concerns about the impact of global communication technology on local communities, I firmly believe that the advantages significantly outweigh the disadvantages. By embracing these technological advancements thoughtfully, local communities can become more interconnected, culturally rich, and economically resilient in our increasingly globalized world.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Essay Sample
In recent years, technology has changed the way people communicate globally. Some people think this is bad for local communities. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think there are some good things about it.
On one hand, global communication technology can have some negative effects on local communities. When people spend a lot of time talking to people from other countries online, they might spend less time with their neighbors and local friends. This could make the community feel less connected. For example, young people might prefer chatting with online friends instead of joining local clubs or sports teams.
However, there are also many positive aspects of using technology for global communication. It can help local businesses reach more customers around the world. Small shops can sell their products online to people in different countries. This can bring more money to the local community. Also, people can learn about different cultures and ideas from around the world, which can make the local community more open-minded and interesting.
Another good thing is that technology can help people stay in touch with family members who live far away. This is especially important for immigrants who want to keep their connections to their home culture while living in a new place. They can use video calls to talk to their relatives and keep their local community strong.
In conclusion, while there are some drawbacks to using technology for global communication, I believe the benefits are greater. Local communities can use this technology to grow and become more connected to the world, while still keeping their local connections strong. It’s important to find a balance between using technology and spending time with people in the local community.
(Word count: 276)
Band 5-6 Essay Sample
Nowadays, many people use technology to talk to people from other countries. Some think this is bad for local communities. I think this is partly true, but not completely.
Technology can be bad for local communities in some ways. People might spend too much time on their phones or computers talking to people far away. They might not talk to their neighbors or join local activities. This can make the community feel less friendly.
But technology for global communication also has good points. It helps people learn about other cultures. For example, students can talk to students in other countries and learn about their lives. This makes people in the local community more understanding of different cultures.
Also, technology can help local businesses. Small shops can sell things online to people in other countries. This can bring more money to the local area. It’s good for the community’s economy.
Sometimes, technology helps people stay close to their family. If someone moves to a new country, they can use video calls to talk to their family back home. This helps them feel connected to their culture and community.
In conclusion, I think technology for global communication has both good and bad effects on local communities. It’s important to use technology in a good way and also spend time with people in the local area. If we do this, technology can help make local communities better and more connected to the world.
(Word count: 228)
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and addresses all parts of the task effectively:
- Task Response: The essay clearly states the writer’s position and provides a well-balanced argument with relevant examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including less common words and phrases.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used consistently and accurately, with only minor errors.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows a good understanding of the task and presents a clear position:
- Task Response: The main ideas are relevant, but some aspects are not fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs may not be well-linked.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, with some attempts at less common words.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay addresses the task but in a more limited way:
- Task Response: The position is clear, but ideas are not always well-supported or fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally coherent, but paragraphs may lack clear focus.
- Lexical Resource: Basic vocabulary is used correctly, but range is limited and repetitive.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are mostly simple, with some attempts at complex sentences. Errors are frequent but do not greatly impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – rapid increase or spread
- Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – having all parts or elements connected or related
- Indigenous (adjective) /ɪnˈdɪdʒənəs/ – originating or occurring naturally in a particular place
- Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – the action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
- Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
- Engrossed (adjective) /ɪnˈɡrəʊst/ – having all one’s attention or interest absorbed by someone or something
- Drawbacks (noun) /ˈdrɔːbæks/ – features that make something less useful or desirable
- Open-minded (adjective) /ˌəʊpən ˈmaɪndɪd/ – willing to consider new ideas; unprejudiced
- Immigrants (noun) /ˈɪmɪɡrənts/ – people who come to live permanently in a foreign country
- Cohesive (adjective) /kəʊˈhiːsɪv/ – characterized by or causing cohesion; unified and consistent
Conclusion
The topic of technology’s impact on global communication and local communities is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The effects of social media on local relationships
- How online education impacts traditional community-based learning
- The role of technology in preserving local cultures in a globalized world
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.