Technology’s impact on travel has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends, this theme is likely to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests:
Some people think that the increasing use of technology, such as smartphones and computers, has helped communication between people. Others think that technology has led to a breakdown in communication between people. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question directly relates to how technology affects human interaction, including during travel. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the positive view: Technology helps communication
- Discuss the negative view: Technology hinders communication
- Provide your own opinion
Remember to address all parts of the question and support your ideas with relevant examples.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s digital age, the role of technology in communication has become a topic of heated debate. While some argue that devices like smartphones and computers have enhanced our ability to connect with others, others contend that these tools have actually eroded genuine human interaction. In my opinion, while technology has undoubtedly transformed communication, its impact is largely positive when used judiciously.
Proponents of technology argue that it has revolutionized communication by breaking down geographical barriers and enabling instant connectivity. Smartphones and computers allow people to stay in touch with friends and family across the globe through video calls, social media, and messaging apps. For instance, travelers can now easily share their experiences in real-time with loved ones back home, fostering a sense of closeness despite physical distance. Moreover, technology has made information more accessible, facilitating knowledge sharing and collaboration on an unprecedented scale.
On the other hand, critics argue that the pervasive use of technology has led to a decline in face-to-face interactions and meaningful conversations. They claim that people are often more engrossed in their devices than in the company of those physically present, leading to a sense of disconnection in personal relationships. Additionally, the rise of social media has been linked to increased feelings of loneliness and inadequacy, as people compare their lives to the curated online personas of others.
In my view, while the concerns about technology’s impact on communication are valid, the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks when used responsibly. The key lies in striking a balance between digital and in-person interactions. Technology should be seen as a tool to enhance, not replace, traditional forms of communication. By setting boundaries on device usage and prioritizing quality time with others, we can harness the power of technology to strengthen our connections while preserving the essence of human interaction.
In conclusion, technology has undeniably transformed the landscape of communication, offering unprecedented opportunities for connection and information sharing. While it is important to be mindful of its potential negative effects, with conscious and balanced use, technology can significantly enrich our communicative experiences and relationships.
(Word count: 345)
Essay 1 Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that warrant a high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and the essay uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Examples include “heated debate”, “eroded genuine human interaction”, “breaking down geographical barriers”, “curated online personas”.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex structures are used naturally and appropriately.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant supporting ideas and examples.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, technology like smartphones and computers is everywhere. Some people think it helps us communicate better, but others believe it makes communication worse. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the one hand, technology has made it easier to stay in touch with people. We can use apps like WhatsApp or Skype to call or message friends and family anywhere in the world. This is especially useful for travelers who want to share their experiences with people back home. Also, social media lets us connect with new people who have similar interests.
However, some people argue that technology is bad for communication. They say that people spend too much time on their phones and don’t talk to the people around them. For example, you might see a group of friends at a restaurant, but instead of talking to each other, they’re all looking at their phones. This can make real relationships weaker.
In my opinion, technology is generally good for communication, but we need to use it carefully. It’s true that it can be a distraction, but it also gives us many ways to stay connected. The important thing is to find a balance between using technology and having face-to-face conversations.
To conclude, while technology has changed how we communicate, I believe it has more positive effects than negative ones. We just need to be mindful of how we use it so that it enhances our relationships rather than harming them.
(Word count: 253)
Essay 2 Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good qualities that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression. Basic cohesive devices are used, though not always with complete accuracy.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “enhances”), though with some inaccuracy.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Main ideas are present and generally well-developed, though some points could be elaborated further.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Revolutionize (verb) /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/: To change something completely and dramatically
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Pervasive (adjective) /pəˈveɪsɪv/: Spreading widely throughout an area or group of people
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Judiciously (adverb) /dʒuˈdɪʃəsli/: In a way that shows good judgment
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Engrossed (adjective) /ɪnˈɡrəʊst/: Having all your attention or interest absorbed by someone or something
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Curated (adjective) /ˈkjʊəreɪtɪd/: Carefully chosen and organized
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Harness (verb) /ˈhɑːnɪs/: To control and use the force or strength of something to produce power or achieve something
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Unprecedented (adjective) /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/: Never having happened or existed in the past
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Erode (verb) /ɪˈrəʊd/: To gradually destroy or reduce something
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Fostering (verb) /ˈfɒstərɪŋ/: Encouraging the development of something
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Mindful (adjective) /ˈmaɪndfʊl/: Aware of something and thinking about it
In conclusion, the topic of technology’s impact on travel and communication is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The effects of social media on tourism
- How technology has changed the way we plan and book travel
- The pros and cons of virtual reality travel experiences
- The impact of technology on cultural exchange during travel
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your essay structure, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.