IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays: Is It Ethical for Companies to Profit from Personal Data? (Band 6-9)

The topic of companies profiting from personal data has become increasingly relevant in recent years, with the rise of big data and digital marketing. This issue has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions several times, and its frequency is likely to increase given its importance in today’s digital age. Let’s examine a sample question on this topic and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Some people think it is acceptable for companies to collect and use personal data to make a profit, while others believe this practice is unethical. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss two opposing views on the ethics of companies profiting from personal data
2. Present their own opinion on the matter
3. Provide relevant examples and explanations to support their arguments

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, the collection and use of personal data by companies for profit has become a contentious issue. While some argue that this practice is acceptable in a free market economy, others contend that it raises serious ethical concerns. In my opinion, while data collection can have benefits, the current extent of data exploitation is unethical and requires stricter regulation.

Those who support companies profiting from personal data often argue that it is a fair exchange of value. Users receive free services, such as social media platforms or search engines, in return for their data. This data enables companies to offer personalized experiences and targeted advertising, which can benefit both businesses and consumers. Moreover, proponents argue that in a capitalist system, companies should be free to monetize any asset they can acquire legally, including user data.

On the other hand, critics of this practice raise valid ethical concerns. The lack of transparency in data collection and usage often leaves users unaware of the extent to which their information is being exploited. There are also significant privacy risks, as evidenced by numerous data breaches and scandals in recent years. Furthermore, the power imbalance between large tech companies and individual users raises questions about genuine consent and the potential for manipulation.

In my view, while some level of data collection can be beneficial, the current practices of many companies cross ethical boundaries. The commodification of personal information on such a massive scale threatens individual privacy and autonomy. I believe that stricter regulations are necessary to ensure transparency, limit data collection to what is strictly necessary, and give users more control over their information.

In conclusion, while there are arguments on both sides, I believe that the ethical concerns surrounding the exploitation of personal data outweigh the potential benefits. It is crucial for society to establish clear ethical guidelines and regulations to protect individual rights in the digital age.

(Word count: 309)

Illustration of ethical debate on data usage

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and linking words are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Some examples include:

   • contentious issue
   • fair exchange of value
   • personalized experiences
   • lack of transparency
   • power imbalance
   • commodification of personal information

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately. It includes complex sentences and various clause types.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Nowadays, many companies collect and use personal data to make money. Some people think this is okay, while others believe it is wrong. In my opinion, this practice can be both good and bad, and we need to be careful about how it is done.

People who support companies using personal data say it helps businesses give better services. For example, when online shops know what we like, they can show us products we might want to buy. Also, many websites and apps are free because they make money from our data instead of charging us. This seems fair to some people.

However, there are also problems with this practice. Many people worry about their privacy when companies have so much information about them. Sometimes, hackers can steal this data, which is dangerous. Also, some companies might use our data in ways we don’t like or know about, which doesn’t seem right.

I think that using personal data for profit can be okay if it’s done properly. Companies should be clear about what data they collect and how they use it. They should also give people the choice to say no if they don’t want their data used. At the same time, there should be rules to stop companies from misusing our information.

In conclusion, while there are good and bad things about companies using personal data for profit, I believe it can be acceptable if done carefully and with respect for people’s privacy.

(Word count: 252)

Visualization of data privacy concerns

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates the qualities of a mid-range response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be developed more fully.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with each paragraph focusing on a main idea. Some linking words are used, but they could be more varied.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempt at using less common words. However, the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

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

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkl/ – morally correct or acceptable
2. privacy (noun) – /ˈprɪvəsi/ – the state of being free from public attention
3. transparency (noun) – /trænsˈpærənsi/ – the quality of being open and honest
4. commodification (noun) – /kəˌmɒdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – the action or process of treating something as a mere commodity
5. exploitation (noun) – /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/ – the action of using someone or something unfairly for one’s own advantage
6. consent (noun) – /kənˈsent/ – permission for something to happen or agreement to do something
7. regulation (noun) – /ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/ – a rule or directive made and maintained by an authority
8. autonomy (noun) – /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government

Conclusion

The topic of companies profiting from personal data is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar topics, practice writing essays that:

1. Clearly present different viewpoints
2. Provide specific examples to support your arguments
3. Use a range of vocabulary related to technology, ethics, and privacy
4. Express your opinion clearly while acknowledging the complexity of the issue

For additional practice, try writing an essay on these related topics:

• Should governments regulate the use of personal data by companies?
• Do the benefits of big data outweigh the potential risks to individual privacy?
• How can individuals protect their personal information in the digital age?

Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.