The topic of digital technology’s influence on voting systems has become increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on analysis of past papers and impact of digital technology on voting systems, this theme appears approximately twice yearly, particularly in countries exploring e-voting solutions.
Modern digital voting system setup in polling station
Analysis of Sample Question
Some people believe that traditional paper-based voting should be completely replaced by digital voting systems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to evaluate the merits and drawbacks of transitioning from traditional to digital voting methods. Similar to discussions about should the voting process be modernized, responses should consider security, accessibility, and reliability aspects.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The modernization of voting systems through digital technology has sparked considerable debate. While I partially agree with implementing electronic voting, I believe a hybrid approach maintaining some traditional elements would be most beneficial.
Digital voting systems offer several compelling advantages. Firstly, they can significantly enhance accessibility, allowing disabled voters and those in remote areas to participate more easily in the democratic process. Furthermore, electronic systems can process results faster and more accurately than manual counting, reducing human error and resource consumption. Similar to how should financial transactions be completely digitalized, digital voting can improve efficiency and reduce costs.
However, completely abandoning paper-based voting presents substantial risks. Cybersecurity concerns remain paramount, as digital systems could be vulnerable to hacking or manipulation. Moreover, technical failures could potentially disenfranchise large numbers of voters. The transparency and verifiability of traditional paper ballots provide a crucial sense of security and trust that many citizens value deeply.
A balanced approach combining both methods would be optimal. Digital voting could be implemented gradually, starting with pilot programs in local elections while maintaining paper backups. This would allow for thorough testing and adjustment of systems while preserving the integrity of the democratic process. As The impact of digital currencies on global economies shows, technological transitions require careful implementation.
In conclusion, while digital voting systems offer significant benefits, a complete replacement of traditional methods would be premature. The ideal solution lies in a carefully managed integration of both systems, ensuring both modernization and security.
Electronic voting security measures and implementation process
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many countries are thinking about changing their voting systems to digital ones. I think this is both good and bad, and I will explain my opinion.
Digital voting has some good points. It is faster than paper voting and saves time. People don’t have to go to voting places if they can vote from their computers at home. Also, counting votes is easier and faster with computers. Young people like using technology, so they might vote more.
But there are problems too. Some people, especially old people, don’t know how to use computers well. Also, computers can break or get hacked by bad people. In my country, many people don’t trust computer systems for important things like voting. Paper voting feels safer for them.
I think we should keep both systems. We can use digital voting for some elections and paper voting for others. This way, people can choose what they like better. Also, if one system has problems, we can use the other one.
In conclusion, I think completely changing to digital voting is not good. We should use both digital and paper voting together. This will make more people happy and keep voting safe.
Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Clear position with balanced arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with effective linking
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary and accurate usage
- Grammatical Range: Complex structures without errors
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Basic position with simple arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion: Basic organization with simple linking
- Lexical Resource: Limited but adequate vocabulary
- Grammatical Range: Simple structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- disenfranchise (v) /ˌdɪsɪnˈfræntʃaɪz/ – to prevent someone from voting
- cybersecurity (n) /ˌsaɪbəsɪˈkjʊərəti/ – computer system security
- verifiability (n) /ˌverɪfaɪəˈbɪləti/ – ability to be checked or proven
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- paramount (adj) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – most important
Consider practicing with this similar topic: “Digital voting systems in local vs. national elections: Which is more appropriate?” Share your essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
