Shopping as a leisure activity has become increasingly prevalent in modern society, making it a common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, this topic appears frequently under various forms, particularly in questions about consumerism, lifestyle changes, and social trends. Let’s examine a recent test question that directly addresses this theme.
Analysis of Task Requirements
Some people regard shopping as a hobby and spend their leisure time going to shopping malls or browsing online stores. Do you think this is a positive or negative development?
This question requires candidates to:
- Evaluate shopping as a recreational activity
- Discuss its impacts on individuals and society
- Take a clear position with supporting arguments
- Provide relevant examples and explanations
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
In recent years, shopping has evolved from a necessity into a popular leisure activity, with many people spending their free time browsing stores both online and offline. While this trend has certain economic benefits, I believe it predominantly represents a negative development for both individuals and society.
The transformation of shopping into a recreational pursuit has undeniably stimulated economic growth and technological innovation. Many shopping centers have become comprehensive entertainment destinations, featuring not only retail outlets but also restaurants, cinemas, and other leisure facilities. This development has created numerous jobs and contributed significantly to local economies. Furthermore, the rise of online shopping has spurred technological advancement in e-commerce, digital payment systems, and delivery services.
However, the negative implications of this trend are more concerning. Firstly, treating shopping as a hobby often leads to unnecessary consumption and financial strain. People who regularly engage in recreational shopping are more likely to make impulsive purchases and accumulate debt. Additionally, this habit can be psychologically damaging, as individuals may develop shopping addictions or rely on material purchases for emotional satisfaction. Moreover, the environmental impact of excessive consumption, including increased waste and carbon emissions from production and transportation, cannot be ignored.
From a broader societal perspective, the promotion of shopping as a leisure activity reinforces materialistic values and shallow relationships. Time that could be spent on more meaningful activities such as personal development, family bonding, or community engagement is instead devoted to consumer pursuits. This shift in values may contribute to a decline in social connections and cultural activities that traditionally brought communities together.
In conclusion, while the popularization of shopping as a hobby has some economic advantages, its detrimental effects on personal well-being, environmental sustainability, and social values make it a predominantly negative development. Society would benefit from promoting more sustainable and fulfilling leisure activities.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people like to spend their free time shopping in malls or online stores. In my opinion, this trend has both positive and negative effects, but the disadvantages are more significant.
On the positive side, shopping as a hobby can be good for the economy. When people spend more time shopping, they buy more things, which helps businesses make money and creates jobs. Also, shopping centers are safe and comfortable places where people can meet friends and family. Many malls have restaurants and entertainment, so people can enjoy different activities in one place.
However, there are several problems with this trend. First, when people shop too much, they spend money on things they don’t need. This can cause financial problems, especially for young people who use credit cards. Second, shopping takes time away from better activities like exercise, reading, or spending time outdoors. Also, too much shopping is bad for the environment because it creates waste and pollution.
Another problem is that people become too focused on buying things. They think having new clothes or gadgets will make them happy, but this is not true. Some people get addicted to shopping and can’t control their spending habits. This causes stress and anxiety.
In conclusion, while shopping as a hobby has some benefits for the economy and social life, I think it is mostly negative because it wastes money and time, harms the environment, and promotes materialism. People should find other hobbies that are more meaningful and less harmful.
Analysis of Essays
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with well-developed arguments
- Relevant examples and specific details
- Balanced discussion with a clear position
- Effective use of cohesive devices
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic organization with some development
- General examples lacking detail
- Some repetition of ideas
- Basic linking words
- Informal tone at times
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Recreational pursuit (n) /ˌrekriˈeɪʃənəl pərˈsuːt/ – leisure activity
- Materialistic values (n) /məˌtɪriəˈlɪstɪk ˈvæljuːz/ – focus on material possessions
- Impulsive purchases (n) /ɪmˈpʌlsɪv ˈpɜːtʃəsɪz/ – unplanned buying
- Consumer pursuits (n) /kənˈsjuːmər pərˈsuːts/ – shopping-related activities
- Financial strain (n) /faɪˈnænʃəl streɪn/ – money pressure
- Psychological damage (n) /ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈdæmɪdʒ/ – mental harm
- Environmental sustainability (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentəl səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – eco-friendly practices
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider these alternative questions:
- Is online shopping making people spend more than they should?
- Should governments regulate shopping addiction?
- How has social media influenced shopping habits?