In recent years, the topic of physical books’ relevance in our increasingly digital world has become a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject combines elements of technology, education, and cultural preservation, making it a rich area for examination. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we can expect this topic to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide essay examples for different band scores.

Some people think that in the digital age we do not need paper books anymore. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on the necessity of paper books in the digital era. It’s essential to:

1. Clearly state your position
2. Provide reasons and examples to support your view
3. Consider counterarguments
4. Conclude by restating your opinion

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

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital landscape, the relevance of paper books has become a subject of debate. While some argue that digital formats have rendered physical books obsolete, I firmly disagree with this notion. I believe that paper books continue to play a crucial role in our society, complementing rather than being replaced by digital alternatives.

Firstly, physical books offer a unique sensory experience that digital formats cannot replicate. The tactile sensation of turning pages, the smell of paper, and the visual appeal of a well-designed cover all contribute to a holistic reading experience. This sensory engagement can enhance memory retention and foster a deeper connection with the text. Moreover, studies have shown that reading from paper rather than screens can lead to better comprehension and reduced eye strain, especially for longer texts.

Secondly, paper books serve as important cultural artifacts and historical records. Libraries and archives filled with physical books represent tangible links to our past, preserving knowledge in a format that doesn’t require technological intervention to access. Unlike digital formats, which may become obsolete due to rapidly changing technology, well-preserved books can survive for centuries, ensuring that future generations can directly interact with historical texts and literary works.

The importance of public libraries in the digital era cannot be overstated, as they continue to provide access to physical books for those who may not have the means to purchase them or prefer traditional reading materials.

However, it’s important to acknowledge the advantages of digital books, such as portability, searchability, and the ability to store vast libraries on a single device. These benefits make e-books an excellent complement to physical books, rather than a replacement. The coexistence of both formats allows readers to choose the medium that best suits their needs and preferences in different situations.

In conclusion, while digital technology has undoubtedly transformed the way we access and consume information, paper books remain indispensable in our society. Their unique sensory qualities, cultural significance, and proven benefits in terms of comprehension and retention ensure their continued relevance. Rather than viewing the situation as a competition between digital and physical formats, we should appreciate how both can coexist and enhance our reading experiences in different ways.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In the modern world, technology has changed many aspects of our lives, including how we read. Some people think we don’t need paper books anymore because of digital options. However, I disagree with this idea and believe that physical books are still important.

One reason why paper books are still necessary is that they are better for our eyes and concentration. Reading from a screen for a long time can cause eye strain and headaches, but paper books don’t have this problem. Also, when we read a physical book, we are less likely to be distracted by notifications or the temptation to check social media, which helps us focus better on the content.

Another advantage of paper books is that they don’t need electricity or internet connection. This means we can read them anywhere, anytime, without worrying about battery life or signal strength. For example, we can take a book to the beach or on a camping trip without any issues. This makes paper books more reliable and accessible in many situations.

The influence of e-books on reading habits has been significant, but it hasn’t eliminated the need for physical books. Many people still prefer the feeling of holding a real book and turning its pages.

However, digital books also have some benefits. They are often cheaper than paper books and take up less space, which is good for people who live in small apartments or travel frequently. E-books also allow us to carry many books on one device, making it convenient for students or avid readers.

In conclusion, while digital books have their advantages, I believe that paper books are still necessary in the digital age. They offer benefits for our health, concentration, and accessibility that digital formats can’t fully replace. It’s important to recognize the value of both formats and use them according to our needs and preferences.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, many people think we don’t need paper books because we have digital books. But I don’t agree with this idea. I think paper books are still important even though we have many digital things.

First, paper books are good for our eyes. When we read on phones or computers, our eyes get tired quickly. But reading paper books is better for our eyes. Also, paper books help us remember things better. When we touch the pages and see how thick the book is, it helps our brain remember the information.

Second, paper books don’t need electricity. We can read them anywhere, even if there’s no power or internet. This is very useful in places where electricity is not always available. For example, in some countries, people can still read paper books when there’s no electricity.

How online learning affects student engagement is an important topic, but it doesn’t mean we should forget about traditional learning methods like reading physical books.

But digital books also have some good points. They are easy to carry because many books can be in one device. They are also sometimes cheaper than paper books. This is good for students who need many books.

In conclusion, I think we still need paper books in the digital age. They are good for our health and easy to use without electricity. Both paper books and digital books have their own good points, so we should use both.

Student comparing reading experience on physical book and digital device

Scoring Explanation

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position, well-developed ideas, and relevant examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organized with clear progression throughout. Effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with precision. Uncommon lexical items used appropriately.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures used accurately. Only rare minor errors.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are more fully covered than others.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally well organized. Some inconsistencies in the use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task. Some errors in word choice but meaning is generally clear.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex structures. Some grammatical errors persist but do not impede communication.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses the task but may be repetitive or lack focus in parts.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Overall coherent but may lack clear progression. Limited use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary. Noticeable errors in word choice and formation.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures. Frequent grammatical errors that may cause some difficulty for the reader.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Obsolete (adj.) /ˈɒbsəliːt/ – no longer in use or no longer useful
2. Tangible (adj.) /ˈtændʒəbl/ – able to be touched; clear and definite; real
3. Comprehension (n.) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhenʃn/ – the ability to understand something
4. Artifact (n.) /ˈɑːtɪfækt/ – an object made by a human being, typically one of cultural or historical interest
5. Indispensable (adj.) /ˌɪndɪˈspensəbl/ – absolutely necessary
6. Coexistence (n.) /ˌkəʊɪɡˈzɪstəns/ – the state of existing together at the same time or in the same place
7. Accessibility (n.) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to be reached or entered
8. Retention (n.) /rɪˈtenʃn/ – the continued possession, use, or control of something
9. Complement (v.) /ˈkɒmplɪment/ – add to (something) in a way that enhances or improves it
10. Holistic (adj.) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by comprehension of the parts of something as intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole

In conclusion, the role of physical books in the digital age remains a relevant and important topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. While digital formats offer convenience and accessibility, physical books continue to provide unique benefits in terms of sensory experience, comprehension, and cultural preservation. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics, such as the impact of technology on traditional media or the changing nature of libraries in the digital era. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.