IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Restricting Violent Games – Band 7, 8 Analysis

The topic of governments restricting access to violent games is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this issue is likely to appear in future tests due to its relevance to modern society and ongoing debates about media influence on youth behavior. Let’s examine a specific question on this topic that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people think that governments should ban violent video games and other violent forms of entertainment. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to express their opinion on whether governments should prohibit violent video games and similar entertainment. Key points to consider:

1. The topic focuses on government intervention in media content.
2. It specifically mentions video games but also includes other forms of entertainment.
3. The phrase “to what extent” allows for a nuanced response, not just a simple agree/disagree.
4. Candidates should discuss the potential impacts of violent media and the role of government regulation.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Violent video games and other forms of violent entertainment have been a subject of intense debate in recent years, with some arguing for government intervention to restrict access to such content. While I acknowledge the concerns about the potential negative impacts of violent media, I largely disagree with the notion that governments should impose outright bans on these forms of entertainment.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that the relationship between violent media and real-world aggression is complex and not conclusively proven. Numerous studies have yielded conflicting results, with some suggesting a correlation between exposure to violent games and increased aggression, while others find no significant link. This lack of definitive evidence makes it difficult to justify government intervention based solely on the assumption that violent games lead to violent behavior.

Moreover, banning violent video games and entertainment would infringe on personal freedoms and artistic expression. Many of these games and media forms are created as works of art or social commentary, and prohibiting them could stifle creativity and limit important discussions about violence in society. Instead of banning content, governments should focus on educating the public about media literacy and critical thinking, empowering individuals to make informed choices about their entertainment consumption.

Additionally, implementing and enforcing such bans would be practically challenging in the digital age. With the internet providing easy access to global content, determined individuals could still find ways to access banned materials. This could lead to the creation of black markets and potentially expose users to more dangerous, unregulated content.

However, I do believe that some level of government oversight is appropriate, particularly in protecting minors from excessively violent content. This could include age restrictions, clear content warnings, and parental control tools. Such measures strike a balance between protecting vulnerable populations and maintaining individual freedoms for adults.

In conclusion, while the concerns about violent media are valid, outright government bans on violent video games and entertainment are not the most effective or appropriate solution. A more balanced approach focusing on education, age-appropriate restrictions, and empowering individuals to make informed choices would be more beneficial for society as a whole.

Illustration of debate over violent video games

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The issue of violent video games and other violent entertainment forms has been a topic of debate for many years. Some people believe that governments should ban these types of media to protect society, especially young people. While I understand this concern, I partly disagree with the idea of a complete ban.

On one hand, there are valid reasons to be worried about violent games and entertainment. Some studies have shown that playing violent games can increase aggressive thoughts and behaviors, especially in children and teenagers. This could potentially lead to more violence in real life. Also, very graphic or violent content might be disturbing for some people and could have negative effects on their mental health.

However, banning all violent games and entertainment would be too extreme and have several problems. Firstly, it would limit people’s freedom to choose what they want to watch or play. Many adults enjoy these types of games and movies without becoming violent in real life. Secondly, it’s not always clear what counts as “violent” content, so it would be hard to decide what to ban. Thirdly, in the age of the internet, it would be very difficult to completely stop people from accessing this content even if it was banned.

I think a better approach would be to have some regulations without a total ban. For example, governments could enforce strict age ratings for games and movies, making sure that very violent content is only available to adults. They could also require clear warnings about violent content so people can make informed choices. Additionally, more education about media violence and its potential effects could help people, especially parents, make better decisions about what they and their children consume.

In conclusion, while the concerns about violent media are understandable, a complete government ban would be too extreme. A balanced approach with some regulations and better education would be more effective in addressing the issue while still respecting people’s freedoms.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

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

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a well-developed argument.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked with a range of cohesive devices.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with flexibility and precision. Less common words are used appropriately (e.g., “infringe,” “stifle,” “empowering”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used accurately. Complex sentences are frequent and error-free.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows the characteristics of a mid-range score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task, presenting a clear position, though the arguments are less fully developed than in the Band 8-9 essay.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs are better linked than others.
3. Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used, with some attempts at less common words, though with less precision than the higher band essay.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentences is used, with generally good control, though some errors are present.

IELTS Writing Task 2 scoring criteria

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntəˈvenʃən/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation in order to improve or help it
2. Aggression (noun) – /əˈɡreʃən/ – feelings of anger or antipathy resulting in hostile or violent behavior
3. Infringe (verb) – /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – to limit or undermine something
4. Stifle (verb) – /ˈstaɪfəl/ – to prevent or constrain (an activity or idea)
5. Empowering (adjective) – /ɪmˈpaʊərɪŋ/ – giving power or authority to; enabling or permitting
6. Oversight (noun) – /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – the action of overseeing something; supervision or watchful care
7. Conflicting (adjective) – /kənˈflɪktɪŋ/ – incompatible or at variance; contradictory
8. Definitive (adjective) – /dɪˈfɪnətɪv/ – conclusive; decisive; final
9. Prohibiting (verb) – /prəˈhɪbɪtɪŋ/ – formally forbidding something by law, rule, or other authority
10. Correlation (noun) – /ˌkɒrəˈleɪʃən/ – a mutual relationship or connection between two or more things

In conclusion, the topic of government restrictions on violent games and entertainment is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. When approaching this topic, candidates should consider multiple perspectives, including the potential impacts of violent media, the role of government regulation, individual freedoms, and practical implementation challenges.

For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related questions such as:

• “Do violent video games contribute to increased aggression in society? Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
• “Some people believe that censorship of media content is necessary to protect children. Do you agree or disagree?”

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.