The topic of how the internet is transforming modern communication has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current trends, this theme is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
The internet has transformed the way people communicate. Do you think the advantages of this outweigh the disadvantages?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks you to evaluate the impact of the internet on communication. Key points to consider:
- Discuss both advantages and disadvantages of internet-based communication
- Provide a clear opinion on whether the benefits outweigh the drawbacks
- Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
The advent of the internet has revolutionized human communication, connecting people across vast distances and enabling instant information exchange. While this digital transformation has undoubtedly brought significant benefits, it has also introduced new challenges. In my opinion, the advantages of internet-based communication substantially outweigh its disadvantages.
One of the primary advantages of internet communication is its ability to overcome geographical barriers. People can now easily connect with friends, family, and colleagues around the world through various platforms such as email, social media, and video conferencing. This has not only strengthened personal relationships but also facilitated global business collaborations and cultural exchanges. For instance, international teams can now work seamlessly on projects, sharing ideas and resources in real-time, which was previously impossible.
Moreover, the internet has democratized access to information and knowledge. With vast online resources and educational platforms, people can learn about any topic at their own pace and convenience. This has opened up unprecedented opportunities for self-improvement and lifelong learning, contributing to a more informed and educated society.
However, the pervasive nature of internet communication has also led to some drawbacks. The overreliance on digital communication can sometimes lead to a decrease in face-to-face interactions, potentially affecting social skills and emotional intelligence. Additionally, the spread of misinformation and the issue of online privacy are significant concerns that need to be addressed.
Despite these challenges, I believe the benefits of internet communication far outweigh its disadvantages. The internet’s ability to connect people, share knowledge, and drive innovation has had a transformative impact on society. As we continue to develop solutions to mitigate the negative aspects, the positive influence of internet communication on our lives will only grow stronger.
In conclusion, while internet-based communication does present some challenges, its advantages in terms of global connectivity, information access, and collaborative opportunities are undeniably superior. As we move forward, it is crucial to harness these benefits while developing strategies to address the associated drawbacks.
(Word count: 323)
How the internet is changing modern communication
Band 6-7 Essay
The internet has greatly changed the way people communicate in recent years. While this has brought many benefits, there are also some drawbacks to consider. In my opinion, the advantages of internet communication outweigh the disadvantages.
One major advantage of the internet is that it allows people to communicate easily with others around the world. Through social media, email, and video calls, we can stay in touch with friends and family no matter where they are. This is especially helpful for people who live far from their loved ones. Additionally, the internet makes it possible to work with people in different countries, which is good for business and the economy.
Another benefit is that the internet gives us access to a lot of information. We can learn about any topic online, which helps with education and personal growth. For example, students can find resources to help with their studies, and adults can learn new skills for their jobs.
However, there are some disadvantages to internet communication. One problem is that people may spend too much time online and not enough time talking face-to-face. This can affect their social skills and relationships. Also, there are concerns about privacy and security when sharing information online.
Despite these issues, I believe the advantages of internet communication are greater than the disadvantages. The ability to connect with people globally and access information easily has changed our lives for the better. While we need to be aware of the problems, the benefits of internet communication are very important in today’s world.
In conclusion, although internet communication has some drawbacks, its advantages in connecting people and sharing information are more significant. As technology continues to improve, we should focus on making the most of these benefits while finding ways to address the challenges.
(Word count: 296)
Band 5-6 Essay
The internet has changed how people talk to each other a lot. There are good things and bad things about this. I think the good things are more than the bad things.
One good thing about the internet is that we can talk to people far away. We can use social media and video calls to see our friends and family who live in other countries. This is very nice for people who miss their families. Also, the internet helps us learn new things. We can find information about anything we want to know on the internet.
But there are some bad things too. Sometimes people spend too much time on the internet and don’t talk to people face to face enough. This can make it hard for them to make friends in real life. Also, some people are not nice on the internet and say mean things to others.
Even though there are some problems, I think the internet is mostly good for communication. It helps us talk to more people and learn more things. We just need to be careful and use the internet in a good way.
In the end, the internet has more good points than bad points for how we talk to each other. It’s important to use the internet well and remember to talk to people in real life too.
(Word count: 203)
Analysis of Essay Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a clear position and well-developed arguments.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with a clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked using a variety of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with precise word choice (e.g., “democratized access”, “pervasive nature”).
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used effectively with a high degree of accuracy. There is a good mix of simple and complex sentences.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows a competent handling of the task with some areas for improvement:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear overall position, but some ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs could be better linked.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, with some attempts at less common words, though not always with full precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though there are some errors.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a basic approach to the task with limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task in a general way but lacks depth in its arguments and examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphs are not always well-linked, and ideas can be repetitive.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is limited and repetitive, with few attempts at less common words.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are simple and repetitive, with some errors that occasionally impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Revolutionize (verb) /ˌrevəˈluːʃənaɪz/ – to completely change the way people do something or think about something
- Advent (noun) /ˈædvent/ – the arrival of a notable person, thing, or event
- Pervasive (adjective) /pəˈveɪsɪv/ – spreading widely throughout an area or a group of people
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make something less harmful, serious, or painful
- Democratize (verb) /dɪˈmɒkrətaɪz/ – to make something available to all people
- Collaborative (adjective) /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – involving two or more people working together for a special purpose
- Transformative (adjective) /trænsˈfɔːmətɪv/ – causing a major change to something or someone
- Overreliance (noun) /ˌəʊvərɪˈlaɪəns/ – excessive dependence on someone or something
The impact of digital communication on society
In conclusion, the topic of how the internet is changing modern communication is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The impact of social media on personal relationships
- The role of technology in education and the workplace
- Privacy concerns in the digital age
- The influence of online information on public opinion
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.