The topic of privacy rights in the digital age has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and current trends, this theme appears in approximately 15-20% of all technology-related questions, making it a high-probability topic for future tests.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that in the digital age, we must accept that privacy no longer exists. Others argue that privacy is a fundamental human right that must be protected. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine both perspectives on privacy in the digital era
- Present balanced arguments
- Provide a clear personal stance
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
In today’s interconnected world, the debate over privacy rights has intensified as digital technology becomes increasingly pervasive. While some argue that privacy is obsolete in the modern era, I firmly believe that privacy remains a crucial right that society must safeguard.
Those who claim privacy no longer exists point to several compelling factors. Social media platforms collect vast amounts of personal data, from browsing habits to location information, making it virtually impossible to maintain complete privacy. Furthermore, surveillance cameras, smart devices, and digital payment systems create an extensive digital footprint that tracks our daily activities. This technological infrastructure has made privacy seem like an outdated concept.
However, the argument for protecting privacy rights is more convincing. Privacy is fundamental to human dignity and personal autonomy. Without it, individuals may face discrimination, manipulation, or exploitation based on their personal information. For instance, data breaches have led to identity theft and financial fraud, demonstrating the serious consequences of inadequate privacy protection. Moreover, privacy enables freedom of expression and democratic discourse, as people need safe spaces to develop and share ideas without fear of judgment or persecution.
In my view, while technology has challenged traditional notions of privacy, this makes protecting it more crucial than ever. Governments should implement strict data protection regulations, companies should adopt privacy-by-design principles, and individuals should be educated about digital privacy. The European Union’s GDPR demonstrates that privacy protection is possible even in our digital age.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people discuss about privacy in digital world. Some think privacy is impossible now, but others say we must keep it. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
First, some people believe privacy is gone because of technology. They say everything we do on internet is recorded. For example, when we use Facebook or Google, these companies know what we like and where we go. Also, many cameras in public places watch us. So these people think privacy is finished.
But other people say privacy is very important right. They think if we lose privacy, bad people can steal our information and money. Also, companies can use our data to make us buy things we don’t need. In China, government uses cameras and internet to watch people, which is bad for freedom.
I agree that privacy is very important. Even though technology makes privacy harder, we should try to protect it. Government should make rules to stop companies from using our data badly. Also, people should learn how to protect their information on internet.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Effective use of cohesive devices
- Strong conclusion with practical solutions
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Basic vocabulary with some errors
- Simple sentence structures
- Limited development of ideas
- Basic cohesive devices
- Some irrelevant examples
Key Vocabulary
- pervasive (adj) /pəˈveɪsɪv/ – spreading widely throughout an area or group
- obsolete (adj) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer in use or out of date
- surveillance (n) /sɜːˈveɪləns/ – close observation of a person or group
- autonomy (n) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom to determine one’s own actions
- exploitation (n) /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃən/ – the action of treating someone unfairly for personal benefit
- persecution (n) /ˌpɜːsɪˈkjuːʃən/ – hostile treatment based on race, politics, or beliefs
- privacy-by-design (phrase) – approach to systems engineering which takes privacy into account
- data protection (phrase) – legal control over access to and use of data stored in computers
For practice, try writing your own essay about digital privacy focusing on specific aspects like social media privacy or government surveillance. Share your essay in the comments for feedback and discussion.