In recent years, the topic of sports and their impact on physical and mental health has gained significant attention in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject has appeared multiple times in past tests and is likely to continue being a popular theme in future examinations. Given its relevance to global health concerns and educational policies, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to discuss this topic. Let’s examine a specific question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:

Some people think that sports play an important role in improving physical and mental health. Others, however, believe there are better ways to improve one’s health. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question presents a balanced argument about the role of sports in health improvement. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that sports are important for physical and mental health
2. Explore alternative methods for improving health
3. Provide a personal opinion on the matter

To effectively answer this question, candidates should structure their essay with clear paragraphs addressing each point, supported by relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Sports have long been recognized as a cornerstone of physical and mental well-being. While some argue that alternative methods may be more effective in improving health, I firmly believe that sports play an irreplaceable role in maintaining overall wellness.

Proponents of sports highlight their multifaceted benefits for both body and mind. Physically, engaging in sports activities enhances cardiovascular health, builds muscle strength, and improves flexibility and coordination. For instance, regular participation in team sports like football or basketball can significantly boost stamina and reduce the risk of obesity-related diseases. Mentally, sports offer a powerful outlet for stress relief and promote mental resilience. The endorphin release during physical activity acts as a natural mood enhancer, combating depression and anxiety. Moreover, team sports foster social connections and develop crucial life skills such as teamwork and leadership.

On the other hand, advocates for alternative health improvement methods argue that activities like meditation, yoga, or dietary changes can be equally or more effective. They contend that these practices offer a more holistic approach to health, addressing not only physical fitness but also mental and spiritual well-being. For example, mindfulness meditation has been shown to reduce stress levels and improve cognitive function without the physical exertion required in sports. Additionally, proponents of this view might argue that a balanced diet and proper nutrition can have a more profound impact on overall health than physical activity alone.

Importance of sports for physical and mental health

While alternative methods certainly have their merits, I believe that sports offer a unique combination of benefits that are difficult to replicate through other means. The integration of physical exertion, mental challenge, and social interaction in sports creates a comprehensive approach to health improvement. Furthermore, the competitive aspect of many sports serves as a powerful motivator, encouraging consistent participation and goal-setting. This motivation is often lacking in more solitary health practices.

In conclusion, while there are various ways to improve one’s health, sports stand out as a particularly effective and enjoyable method. The physical and mental benefits of sports, coupled with their social aspects, make them an invaluable tool for health enhancement. Rather than viewing sports and alternative methods as mutually exclusive, I believe the optimal approach to health improvement lies in combining sports with other beneficial practices, creating a well-rounded regimen for overall well-being.

Should sports programs be mandatory in higher education? This is another related topic that explores the importance of sports in educational settings, further emphasizing the significance of physical activity in personal development.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In today’s world, there are different opinions about how to improve our health. Some people think sports are very important, while others believe there are better ways. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Many people believe sports are good for our health. When we play sports, our bodies get stronger and our hearts work better. For example, running or playing football can help us lose weight and feel more energetic. Sports also make us feel happy because when we exercise, our brain releases chemicals that make us feel good. Additionally, playing team sports can help us make friends and learn to work together.

However, other people think there are better ways to improve health. They might say that eating healthy food is more important than playing sports. A good diet can help prevent many diseases and give us energy. Some people also think that activities like yoga or meditation are better for our health because they help us relax and reduce stress without the risk of getting injured like in some sports.

Alternative health improvement methods

In my opinion, I think sports are very important for our health, but other methods are also useful. Sports help us stay fit and happy, which is very important for our overall health. However, we should also eat healthy food and try other activities like yoga to have a balanced approach to health. I believe the best way is to combine different methods to improve our health.

To conclude, while there are different ways to improve health, sports play a crucial role. They offer many benefits for our body and mind. However, it’s also important to consider other methods like healthy eating and relaxation techniques. The best approach is to use a combination of these methods for the best results in improving our health.

Explaining the Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended and supported ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphing is well-managed, and a range of cohesive devices is used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The majority of sentences are error-free with only very occasional minor ‘slips’.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows competence but with some limitations:

1. Task Response: All parts of the task are addressed, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. The format is appropriate, and the conclusion reflects the position.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are arranged coherently, and there is a clear overall progression. Cohesive devices are used effectively, though there may be some under/over-use.

3. Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There may be some inaccuracies in word choice or collocation, but these do not impede communication.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. While there are some errors, they do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.

2. Cardiovascular (adjective) /ˌkɑː.di.əʊˈvæs.kjʊ.lər/: Relating to the heart and blood vessels.

3. Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/: The ability to recover quickly from difficulties.

4. Holistic (adjective) /həʊˈlɪs.tɪk/: Characterized by the treatment of the whole person, taking into account mental and social factors, rather than just physical symptoms.

5. Exertion (noun) /ɪɡˈzɜː.ʃən/: Physical or mental effort.

6. Endorphin (noun) /enˈdɔː.fɪn/: Any of a group of hormones secreted within the brain and nervous system and having a number of physiological functions, especially the relief of pain and the inducing of a feeling of well-being.

7. Cognitive (adjective) /ˈkɒɡ.nə.tɪv/: Related to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning.

8. Irreplaceable (adjective) /ˌɪr.ɪˈpleɪ.sə.bəl/: Unable to be replaced; unique.

9. Regimen (noun) /ˈredʒ.ɪ.mən/: A prescribed course of medical treatment, diet, or exercise for the promotion or restoration of health.

10. Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/: Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.

In conclusion, the topic of sports and their impact on physical and mental health is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Should sports be mandatory in schools? This is another related question that candidates might encounter, further emphasizing the importance of being well-prepared on this subject. To excel in your IELTS essay, practice writing on various aspects of this topic, such as the role of sports in education, the impact of sports on community building, or the economic aspects of the sports industry. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide relevant examples to support your arguments.

We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your preparation!