Technology has become an integral part of our daily lives, profoundly influencing how we interact and form relationships. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared. Based on recent trends, we can expect questions related to technology and personal relationships to continue appearing in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant essay question and analyze sample responses for different band scores.

Analyzing the Essay Question

Some people believe that technology has made communication between people less personal. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

This question asks you to discuss your views on how technology affects personal communication. It’s important to:

1. Clearly state your opinion
2. Provide specific examples to support your arguments
3. Consider both positive and negative aspects of technology’s impact
4. Organize your essay logically
5. Use appropriate vocabulary and grammar

Let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Technology has undeniably revolutionized the way we communicate, leading to debates about its impact on personal interactions. While some argue that digital communication has made our exchanges less intimate, I believe that technology has both enhanced and transformed personal communication rather than diminishing it.

On one hand, technology has undoubtedly changed the nature of our interactions. Face-to-face conversations have been partially replaced by text messages, emails, and social media posts, which can lack the nuance and emotional depth of in-person communication. The convenience of digital platforms sometimes leads to superficial exchanges, with people opting for quick messages rather than meaningful dialogues. This shift has raised concerns about the authenticity and depth of our relationships in the digital age.

However, I would argue that technology has also significantly expanded our capacity for personal communication. Video calling apps like Skype and FaceTime have made it possible to maintain close relationships across vast distances, allowing families and friends to stay connected in ways that were previously impossible. Social media platforms enable us to share our lives with a broader network, fostering connections that might otherwise have been lost. Moreover, for introverted individuals or those with social anxieties, technology provides a comfortable medium for expression and connection.

Furthermore, technology has created new forms of personal expression. Emojis, GIFs, and memes allow for nuanced emotional communication that can sometimes surpass the limitations of words alone. Online communities have formed around shared interests, providing spaces for deep, meaningful connections based on mutual passions. These digital spaces often lead to real-world meetups and lasting friendships.

In conclusion, while technology has certainly altered the landscape of personal communication, I believe it has ultimately enhanced our ability to connect with others. The key lies in how we choose to use these tools. By being mindful of the potential pitfalls and leveraging the benefits, we can harness technology to foster more inclusive, expansive, and meaningful personal relationships.

(Word count: 309)

Technology's impact on personal relationships in the digital era

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and would likely score in the Band 8-9 range for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a fully developed response. It discusses both sides of the argument before concluding.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically linked.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “revolutionized,” “diminishing,” and “superficial exchanges” demonstrate advanced language use.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. There are no noticeable errors, and the writing flows naturally.

5. Examples and Supporting Ideas: The essay provides specific, relevant examples to support each point, such as mentioning video calling apps and online communities.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

In recent years, technology has changed the way people communicate with each other. Some people think that this has made communication less personal. I partly agree with this opinion because technology has both positive and negative effects on personal communication.

On the negative side, technology can make communication less personal in some ways. Many people now prefer to send text messages or emails instead of talking face-to-face or on the phone. This can make conversations shorter and less meaningful. Also, social media can make relationships seem shallow because people only share the best parts of their lives online. This might not give a true picture of someone’s life and feelings.

However, technology also has positive effects on personal communication. Video calls allow people to see and talk to their loved ones who live far away, which was not possible before. This can help maintain close relationships despite distance. Social media platforms also help people stay connected with friends and family members they might not see often. Moreover, online forums and groups allow people with similar interests to connect and form friendships.

Another benefit is that technology can help shy people communicate more easily. Some people find it easier to express their thoughts and feelings through writing rather than speaking. Online communication gives them a chance to connect with others in a way that feels comfortable for them.

In conclusion, while technology has changed personal communication and sometimes made it less intimate, it has also created new ways for people to connect. The key is to use technology wisely and balance it with face-to-face interactions to maintain truly personal relationships.

(Word count: 276)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good writing skills and would likely score in the Band 6-7 range for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task and presents a clear position, though the response could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with each paragraph focusing on a main idea. However, the links between ideas could be stronger.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate and sufficiently varied, though not as sophisticated as in the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are a few minor errors, but they do not impede communication.

5. Examples and Supporting Ideas: The essay provides relevant examples, though they could be more specific and detailed.

Balancing digital and face-to-face communication in modern relationships

Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2 on Technology and Relationships

1. Revolutionize (verb) /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/: To change something completely and fundamentally

2. Diminish (verb) /dɪˈmɪnɪʃ/: To make or become less

3. Nuance (noun) /ˈnjuːɑːns/: A subtle difference in meaning, opinion, or attitude

4. Superficial (adjective) /ˌsuːpəˈfɪʃl/: Not thorough or deep; existing or occurring at or on the surface

5. Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/: To encourage the development of something

6. Leverage (verb) /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/: To use something to maximum advantage

7. Profound (adjective) /prəˈfaʊnd/: Very great or intense; having or showing great knowledge or insight

8. Authentic (adjective) /ɔːˈθentɪk/: Genuine or real; not fake or imitation

9. Intimate (adjective) /ˈɪntɪmət/: Closely acquainted; familiar or close

10. Harness (verb) /ˈhɑːnəs/: To control and use the force or strength of something to produce power or achieve a result

Conclusion

The impact of technology on personal relationships is a complex and nuanced topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in your essay, focus on:

1. Clearly stating your position
2. Providing specific examples and scenarios
3. Discussing both positive and negative aspects
4. Using a range of appropriate vocabulary and complex sentence structures
5. Organizing your ideas logically and coherently

Practice writing essays on related topics, such as:

• The role of social media in modern relationships
• How technology affects family dynamics
• The impact of digital communication on workplace relationships
• Balancing online and offline interactions in friendships

Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing score is consistent practice and reflection on your work. Consider sharing your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow test-takers. This active engagement will help you refine your skills and boost your confidence for the actual exam.