The topic of whether governments should provide universal access to high-speed internet has become increasingly relevant in recent years. This subject frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, reflecting its importance in modern society. Based on past exam trends and the growing significance of digital connectivity, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to be a popular choice for future IELTS tests.

Let’s examine a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question that has appeared in recent exams:

Some people believe that governments should provide free high-speed internet access to all citizens. Others think this is unnecessary and there are more important priorities for government spending. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should provide free high-speed internet to all citizens
2. Discuss the opposing view that this is unnecessary and there are more important priorities
3. Provide their own opinion on the issue

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your personal stance.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In today’s digital age, the debate over whether governments should provide free high-speed internet access to all citizens has gained significant traction. While some argue that this is a necessary step towards ensuring equal opportunities in the modern world, others contend that there are more pressing issues that require government funding. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of government-provided internet access argue that it has become an essential utility, much like electricity or water. They contend that in an increasingly digitized world, access to high-speed internet is crucial for education, employment, and civic participation. For instance, during the recent global pandemic, students without reliable internet connections were at a severe disadvantage when schools shifted to online learning. Furthermore, universal internet access could potentially bridge the digital divide between urban and rural areas, promoting more equitable economic development.

On the other hand, critics of this approach argue that there are more urgent priorities for government spending, such as healthcare, infrastructure, or poverty alleviation. They maintain that private companies are better equipped to provide internet services efficiently and that government intervention could stifle innovation in the telecommunications sector. Additionally, they point out that the cost of implementing and maintaining a nationwide high-speed internet network would be exorbitant and could lead to increased taxation or diversion of funds from other critical areas.

The role of technology in improving access to education is undeniable, and I believe that governments should indeed play a role in ensuring widespread internet access. However, I do not think this necessarily means providing it entirely for free. A more balanced approach could involve public-private partnerships, targeted subsidies for low-income families, and investments in digital infrastructure in underserved areas. This would help achieve the goal of widespread access while still allowing for market competition and innovation.

In conclusion, while universal access to high-speed internet is undoubtedly important in the 21st century, the means of achieving this goal require careful consideration. A nuanced approach that combines government support with private sector involvement may be the most effective way to bridge the digital divide without neglecting other crucial areas of public spending.

(Word count: 368)

Government providing internet access to bridge digital divide

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether governments should provide free high-speed internet access to all citizens. Some people think this is necessary, while others believe there are more important things for governments to spend money on. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

Those who support free internet access for everyone say it is very important in today’s world. They argue that the internet is needed for many things like education, finding jobs, and staying connected with others. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many students had to study online, and those without good internet were left behind. Also, many job applications are now done online, so people without internet access might miss out on job opportunities.

On the other hand, some people think that governments should not provide free internet because there are more important things to spend money on. They say that things like healthcare, education, and infrastructure are more critical. They also argue that providing free internet would be very expensive and might lead to higher taxes. Some believe that private companies can do a better job of providing internet services.

The impact of technology on the future of education is significant, and I think that internet access is very important. However, I don’t think governments need to provide it completely free to everyone. Instead, they could help make it more affordable and available, especially in rural areas or for low-income families. This way, more people can have access without putting too much strain on government budgets.

In conclusion, while internet access is important, I believe governments should focus on making it more accessible rather than providing it for free to everyone. This approach can help balance the need for internet access with other important areas of government spending.

(Word count: 309)

Government policy for affordable internet access

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, some people think governments should give free fast internet to everyone. But others say this is not needed and there are more important things. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

People who want free internet say it is very important. They think everyone needs internet for school, work, and talking to friends. For example, many students had to study at home during COVID-19, and internet was very important. Also, many jobs need internet, so people without it might not get good jobs.

But other people think governments should not give free internet. They say there are more important things like hospitals, schools, and roads. They also think it would cost too much money to give everyone free internet. Some people say companies can give better internet than the government.

I think internet is very important, but I don’t think it should be free for everyone. Maybe the government can help make internet cheaper for poor people or people in villages. This way, more people can use the internet, but the government doesn’t spend too much money.

In the end, I think internet is important, but governments should help make it cheaper instead of making it free for everyone. This can help more people use the internet without spending too much government money.

(Word count: 213)

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Achievement: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response. Presents a clear position throughout.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organizes information and ideas with clear progression. Uses a range of cohesive devices appropriately.
• Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Achievement: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others. Presents a relevant position.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical.
• Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. Attempts to use less common vocabulary but with some inaccuracy.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Achievement: Addresses the task only partially. The format may be inappropriate in places. Expresses a position but development is not always clear.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression. Uses some basic cohesive devices but these may be inaccurate or repetitive.
• Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task. May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses only a limited range of structures. Attempts complex sentences but these tend to be less accurate than simple sentences. May make frequent grammatical errors; errors can cause some difficulty for the reader.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Digital divide (noun) /ˌdɪdʒ.ɪ.təl dɪˈvaɪd/: The gulf between those who have ready access to computers and the Internet, and those who do not.

2. Universal access (noun phrase) /ˌjuː.nɪˈvɜː.səl ˈæk.ses/: The ability of all people to have equal opportunity and access to a service or product.

3. Public-private partnership (noun phrase) /ˌpʌb.lɪk ˈpraɪ.vət ˈpɑːt.nə.ʃɪp/: A cooperative arrangement between two or more public and private sectors.

4. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.

5. Subsidies (noun) /ˈsʌb.sɪ.di/: A sum of money granted by the government or a public body to assist an industry or business.

6. Equitable (adjective) /ˈek.wɪ.tə.bəl/: Fair and impartial.

7. Stifle innovation (verb phrase) /ˈstaɪ.fəl ˌɪn.əˈveɪ.ʃən/: To prevent new ideas or innovation from developing.

8. Exorbitant (adjective) /ɪɡˈzɔː.bɪ.tənt/: Unreasonably high (of a price or amount charged).

9. Nuanced approach (noun phrase) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst əˈprəʊtʃ/: An approach that takes into account small differences in meaning or opinion.

10. Civic participation (noun phrase) /ˈsɪv.ɪk pɑːˌtɪs.ɪˈpeɪ.ʃən/: Involvement in the political process and community affairs.

In conclusion, the topic of government provision of high-speed internet access is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of technology in reducing social inequality
• Government investment in digital literacy programs
• The economic impact of widespread internet access

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammar, and always address all parts of the question. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.