The topic of technology’s impact on mental health is increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and the growing relevance of this issue in our digital age, it’s highly likely that candidates will encounter this theme in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to approach it effectively for different band scores.
Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Question
Let’s examine a question that reflects the current trends in IELTS exams:
Some people believe that the increasing use of technology is having a negative impact on people’s mental health, while others argue that technology can actually improve mental well-being. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, which is common in IELTS Writing Task 2. It requires you to:
- Discuss the view that technology negatively impacts mental health
- Discuss the opposing view that technology can improve mental well-being
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
To excel in this task, you need to:
- Present a balanced discussion of both viewpoints
- Support each view with relevant examples or explanations
- Clearly state your own opinion
- Use a range of vocabulary related to technology and mental health
- Employ a variety of sentence structures
- Organize your essay logically with clear paragraphs
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In the digital age, the relationship between technology and mental health has become a topic of intense debate. While some argue that the pervasive use of technology is detrimental to our psychological well-being, others contend that it can be a powerful tool for improving mental health. In my opinion, while technology does pose certain risks, its potential benefits for mental health outweigh the drawbacks when used judiciously.
Those who view technology as harmful to mental health often point to the addictive nature of social media and digital devices. The constant connectivity and information overload can lead to increased stress, anxiety, and feelings of inadequacy. Moreover, the rise of cyberbullying and online harassment has created new avenues for psychological harm, particularly among young people. The phenomenon of “FOMO” (fear of missing out) and the tendency to compare oneself unfavorably to others’ curated online personas can also contribute to depression and low self-esteem.
On the other hand, proponents of technology’s positive impact on mental health highlight its potential for improving access to mental health resources and support. Telemedicine platforms and mental health apps have made therapy and counseling more accessible to those who might otherwise face barriers to treatment. Online support communities provide a sense of belonging and understanding for individuals struggling with various mental health issues. Additionally, technology can be used to promote mindfulness and relaxation through meditation apps and stress-reduction programs.
In my view, while the concerns about technology’s negative effects are valid, the potential for positive impact is substantial when technology is used mindfully. The key lies in developing a healthy relationship with digital tools and leveraging them to enhance rather than detract from our mental well-being. Education about responsible technology use and digital literacy can help mitigate the risks while maximizing the benefits.
In conclusion, The Impact Of Technology On Mental Health is nuanced and largely depends on how it is utilized. By acknowledging both the risks and opportunities presented by technology, we can work towards harnessing its power to support and improve mental health in the digital era. (329 words)
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “telemedicine,” “cyberbullying,” and “digital literacy.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay employs a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Nowadays, technology is everywhere in our lives, and some people think it is bad for our mental health, while others believe it can help us feel better mentally. I will discuss both sides of this issue and give my opinion.
On one hand, technology can harm our mental health. Many people spend too much time on social media or playing games, which can make them feel lonely or addicted. Also, seeing perfect lives of others online can make us feel bad about ourselves. Cyberbullying is another problem that can hurt people’s feelings and cause depression.
However, technology can also be good for mental health. There are many apps that can help people relax or meditate. Online counseling makes it easier for people to talk to therapists without leaving their homes. Social media can also help people connect with friends and family, which is good for mental health, especially during difficult times like the pandemic.
In my opinion, technology itself is not good or bad for mental health. It depends on how we use it. If we use it wisely and in moderation, it can be very helpful. But if we use it too much or in the wrong way, it can cause problems.
To conclude, technology has both positive and negative effects on mental health. It’s important for people to learn how to use technology in a healthy way to get the benefits while avoiding the drawbacks. (224 words)
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 score:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion and examples are less developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the range and precision of higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there’s less variety compared to higher bands.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but with less depth and fewer specific examples than the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Pervasive (adjective) /pəˈveɪsɪv/ – spreading widely throughout an area or group of people
- Detrimental (adjective) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – tending to cause harm
- Judiciously (adverb) /dʒuːˈdɪʃəsli/ – with good judgment or sense
- Cyberbullying (noun) /ˈsaɪbəˌbʊliɪŋ/ – the use of electronic communication to bully a person
- Telemedicine (noun) /ˌtelɪˈmedɪsn/ – the remote diagnosis and treatment of patients by means of telecommunications technology
- Mindfulness (noun) /ˈmaɪndfəlnəs/ – the quality or state of being conscious or aware of something
- Digital literacy (noun phrase) /ˈdɪdʒɪtl ˈlɪtərəsi/ – the ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information
- Information overload (noun phrase) /ˌɪnfəˈmeɪʃn ˈəʊvələʊd/ – exposure to or provision of too much information or data
Conclusion
The impact of technology on mental health is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in essays on this theme, focus on presenting balanced arguments, using specific examples, and demonstrating a range of vocabulary related to both technology and mental health. Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:
- The role of social media in shaping public opinion
- The effects of screen time on children’s development
- The impact of artificial intelligence on job markets and mental well-being
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a variety of sentence structures, and support your points with relevant examples. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to improve your IELTS Writing skills.