Digital inclusion has become a crucial topic in recent years, reflecting the growing importance of technology in our daily lives. This theme has started to appear more frequently in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, making it essential for test-takers to be well-prepared. Based on recent trends, we can expect to see more questions related to digital inclusion in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past tests and could likely resurface in various forms.
Some people believe that governments should focus on promoting digital literacy and access to technology in underserved communities. Others argue that there are more pressing issues to address. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question touches on the core of digital inclusion debates. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should prioritize digital literacy and access in underserved communities.
- Present the opposing view that other issues are more urgent.
- Provide your own opinion on the matter.
Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your position.
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
In today’s rapidly evolving digital landscape, the question of whether governments should prioritize digital literacy and access in underserved communities has become increasingly pertinent. While some argue for this focus, others contend that more pressing issues demand attention. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a personal stance.
Proponents of digital inclusion initiatives argue that in our technology-driven world, ensuring digital literacy and access for all is crucial for social and economic equality. By providing underserved communities with the tools and skills to navigate the digital realm, governments can open up new opportunities for education, employment, and civic participation. For instance, during the COVID-19 pandemic, regions with better digital infrastructure and literacy were able to adapt more quickly to remote learning and working, highlighting the importance of digital inclusion in crisis resilience.
On the other hand, critics argue that governments face numerous urgent challenges that require immediate attention and resources. Issues such as poverty, healthcare, and basic education are often seen as more fundamental and pressing than digital literacy. These skeptics contend that addressing these core needs should take precedence over technological concerns, especially in regions where basic infrastructure is lacking. They argue that investing in digital inclusion might be premature when more basic needs remain unmet.
In my opinion, while both arguments have merit, the promotion of digital literacy and access should be integrated into broader development strategies rather than viewed as a separate or lesser priority. In today’s interconnected world, digital skills and access are increasingly essential for participating in the global economy and accessing vital services. However, this should not come at the expense of addressing other critical issues. Instead, governments should seek synergies between digital inclusion and other development goals, recognizing that technology can be a powerful tool for addressing challenges in education, healthcare, and economic development.
In conclusion, while there are indeed pressing issues that governments must address, promoting digital literacy and access in underserved communities should be seen as an integral part of comprehensive development efforts. By taking a balanced approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of various social and economic factors, governments can work towards more inclusive and sustainable progress for all citizens.
(Word count: 349)
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should focus on promoting digital literacy and access to technology in underserved communities is a topic of debate. Some people think it’s important, while others believe there are more urgent issues to deal with. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support promoting digital literacy argue that it’s necessary in today’s world. They say that having digital skills and access to technology can help people get better jobs and education. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, people who could use computers and the internet were able to continue working and studying from home. This shows how important digital skills can be.
On the other hand, some people think there are more important problems to solve. They believe that issues like poverty, health care, and basic education should come first. These people argue that in some places, people don’t have enough food or clean water, so teaching them about computers isn’t the most important thing. They think the government should focus on these basic needs before worrying about technology.
In my opinion, both sides have good points, but I think digital literacy is very important in today’s world. However, I don’t think it should be the only focus of governments. Instead, they should try to include digital skills training as part of their overall plans to help people. For example, when building new schools, they could include computer classes along with other subjects.
To conclude, while there are many important issues for governments to address, I believe that promoting digital literacy and access to technology should be part of their plans to help underserved communities. It’s possible to work on different problems at the same time, and digital skills can actually help solve some of these other issues too.
(Word count: 295)
Digital inclusion in education
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, a paragraph for personal opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced discussion.
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Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. Both are correct, but the higher band demonstrates greater linguistic flexibility.
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Argument Development: The Band 8-9 essay provides more specific examples and deeper analysis. The Band 6-7 essay makes valid points but with less elaboration.
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Cohesion and Coherence: Both essays use linking words, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more varied and sophisticated cohesive devices.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay does so with greater depth and precision.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
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Digital literacy (noun) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/: The ability to use digital technology and the internet.
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Underserved (adjective) /ˌʌndəˈsɜːvd/: Not provided with adequate services or resources.
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Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
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Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/: The interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements.
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Pertinent (adjective) /ˈpɜːtɪnənt/: Relevant or applicable to a particular matter.
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Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
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Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/: Mutually connected or operating together as a system.
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Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/: Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
In conclusion, the topic of digital inclusion is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in education
- Government responsibility in bridging the digital divide
- The impact of digital skills on employment opportunities
- Balancing technological advancement with other societal needs
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and get feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
