Political polarization has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in questions about social cohesion, media influence, and public discourse. Based on recent exam patterns and the effects of social media on political polarization, this theme is likely to appear more frequently in future tests.
Effects of Political Polarization on Modern Society
Recent IELTS Question Analysis
Some people believe that growing political polarization is damaging society and making it harder for people to live together peacefully. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Question Breakdown:
- Topic: Political polarization and its societal impact
- Task: Agree/Disagree essay
- Focus: Social consequences of political division
- Key areas: Social harmony, communication, community relations
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
Political division has become increasingly pronounced in recent years, and I strongly agree that this polarization is having detrimental effects on social cohesion and peaceful coexistence. This essay will examine how this phenomenon creates barriers between communities and impacts daily interactions.
The growing political divide has severely impacted interpersonal relationships and community bonds. When the influence of social media on political movements is considered, we can see how people increasingly isolate themselves in echo chambers, only engaging with those who share their views. This self-segregation leads to decreased empathy and understanding across political lines, making it difficult for people to maintain friendships or professional relationships with those holding different beliefs.
Moreover, political polarization has begun to affect institutions that traditionally united people regardless of their beliefs. For example, schools, workplaces, and even family gatherings have become potential battlegrounds for political disagreements. This tension creates an environment where constructive dialogue becomes nearly impossible, as people view those with opposing views not just as disagreeing parties, but as adversaries.
To conclude, the evidence clearly shows that political polarization is eroding social fabric and making peaceful coexistence increasingly challenging. Unless society finds ways to bridge these divides and foster meaningful dialogue, these problems will likely intensify.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
I agree that political polarization is causing problems in society today. This essay will discuss the main reasons why this is happening and its effects on people’s lives.
First, social media makes political division worse. When people only follow news that matches what they already think, they don’t learn about other views. The impact of social media on political campaigns shows that people are getting more extreme in their opinions. This makes it hard for them to talk to people who think differently.
Second, political differences are affecting families and friends. Many people report having arguments with family members about politics, and some even stop talking to friends because of different political views. This creates tension in relationships and makes it difficult for people to spend time together.
In conclusion, political polarization is a serious problem that affects how people get along. Society needs to find ways to help people understand and respect different views.
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.0 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “detrimental effects,” “interpersonal relationships,” “self-segregation”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization and cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Accurate grammar throughout
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some cohesive devices
- Arguments could be more developed
- Occasional grammatical errors
Key Vocabulary
- Polarization (n) /ˌpəʊləraɪˈzeɪʃən/: Division into opposing groups
- Cohesion (n) /kəʊˈhiːʒən/: Unity between people or groups
- Echo chamber (n) /ˈekəʊ ˌtʃeɪmbə/: Environment where one encounters only similar opinions
- Detrimental (adj) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/: Causing harm or damage
- Self-segregation (n) /self ˌseɡrɪˈɡeɪʃən/: Voluntary separation from others
Looking ahead, future IELTS candidates should prepare for questions about role of digital platforms in influencing political opinions and their impact on society. Practice writing essays about social media’s influence on political discourse, the role of traditional media in polarization, and potential solutions for bridging political divides.
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
