Social media’s influence on personal relationships has become a prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme frequently appears in exams, reflecting its relevance in modern society. Based on past trends and current social dynamics, we can expect this subject to remain a popular choice for future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Task
Some people think that social media is destroying personal relationships. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires you to express your opinion on whether social media is harmful to personal relationships. It’s an agree/disagree essay type, where you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay:
Social media has undeniably transformed the landscape of personal interactions in the digital age. While some argue that it is eroding the quality of relationships, I partially agree with this view, as I believe social media’s impact on personal connections is multifaceted and not entirely negative.
On one hand, social media platforms can indeed have detrimental effects on relationships. The constant connectivity these platforms offer can lead to a lack of genuine, face-to-face interactions. People may find themselves scrolling through their feeds instead of engaging in meaningful conversations with those physically present. Moreover, the curated nature of social media posts can foster unrealistic expectations and feelings of inadequacy, potentially straining relationships as individuals compare their lives to the highlight reels of others.
However, it would be overly simplistic to claim that social media is solely destructive to personal relationships. These platforms have also provided unprecedented opportunities for maintaining and even strengthening connections. Long-distance relationships, for instance, have benefited immensely from the ability to share moments instantaneously across vast distances. Social media has also facilitated the rekindling of old friendships and the formation of new ones based on shared interests, which might not have been possible otherwise.
Furthermore, social media can serve as a powerful tool for self-expression and community building. Many individuals find support and understanding through online communities, particularly those who may feel isolated in their immediate physical surroundings. This aspect of social media can actually enhance one’s social network and provide emotional support, thereby enriching personal relationships.
In conclusion, while social media does pose certain risks to the quality of personal relationships, its impact is not uniformly negative. The key lies in how individuals choose to use these platforms. By maintaining a balance between online and offline interactions and using social media mindfully, people can harness its benefits while mitigating its potential drawbacks. Ultimately, social media is a tool, and its effect on relationships largely depends on how we wield it.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a mid-scoring sample essay:
In today’s digital world, social media has become a big part of our lives. Some people think it is ruining our personal relationships. I partly agree with this idea because social media has both good and bad effects on how we connect with others.
On the negative side, social media can make us spend less time with people in real life. Many people are always checking their phones, even when they are with friends or family. This can make our face-to-face talks less meaningful. Also, seeing perfect lives of others on social media can make us feel bad about our own lives, which can hurt our relationships.
However, social media is not all bad for relationships. It helps us stay in touch with friends and family who live far away. We can easily share photos and messages with them. Social media also helps us find new friends who like the same things we do. This can make our social circles bigger and more interesting.
Another good thing about social media is that it can help shy people express themselves better. Some people find it easier to share their thoughts online than in person. This can help them make friends and feel less alone.
In conclusion, while social media can cause some problems in our relationships, it also has many benefits. The important thing is to use social media wisely. We should try to balance our online time with real-life interactions. If we do this, social media can be a helpful tool for building and keeping good relationships.
(Word count: 253)
Writing Tips for Different Band Scores
For Band 8-9:
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Vocabulary: Use sophisticated vocabulary and idiomatic expressions. For example, “eroding the quality of relationships” instead of “making relationships worse.”
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Grammar: Employ a variety of complex structures. Use conditionals, relative clauses, and passive voice where appropriate.
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Coherence: Ensure smooth transitions between paragraphs and ideas. Use linking phrases like “Moreover,” “Furthermore,” and “In conclusion” effectively.
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Arguments: Provide nuanced arguments with specific examples and deep analysis.
For Band 6-7:
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Vocabulary: Use a mix of common and some advanced words. For example, “ruining our personal relationships” is acceptable but try to include some more advanced phrases.
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Grammar: Use some complex structures but maintain clarity. Simple and compound sentences are fine, but include a few complex ones too.
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Coherence: Use basic linking words like “However,” “Also,” and “In conclusion” to connect ideas.
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Arguments: Present clear points with some supporting details, but depth of analysis may be limited compared to higher band scores.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Erosion (noun) /ɪˈrəʊʒn/ – gradual destruction or diminution of something
- Curated (adjective) /ˈkjʊəreɪtɪd/ – selected, organized, and presented using professional or expert knowledge
- Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – tending to cause harm
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Instantaneously (adverb) /ˌɪnstənˈteɪniəsli/ – immediately, without any delay
- Rekindling (verb) /riːˈkɪndl/ – revive or renew
- Mindfully (adverb) /ˈmaɪndfəli/ – in a conscious or aware manner
- Mitigating (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪtɪŋ/ – making less severe, serious, or painful
Conclusion
The impact of social media on personal relationships is a complex and nuanced topic that’s likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in this task, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in modern relationships
- The effects of social media on mental health
- The influence of social media on youth culture
Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your essay structure, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar for your target band score. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.