IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Music’s Impact on Mental Health and Emotions (Band 7-9 Samples)

The influence of music on mental health and emotions is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic has appeared multiple times in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in modern society. As mental health awareness grows, understanding music’s role in emotional well-being becomes increasingly important. Let’s explore a recent exam question related to this theme and analyze sample essays for different band scores.

Some people say that music is a good way of bringing people of different cultures and ages together. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Analyzing the Question

This question asks for your opinion on music’s ability to unite people across cultural and generational divides. Key points to consider:

1. The statement presents music as a unifying force.
2. It specifically mentions two aspects: different cultures and ages.
3. You need to express your level of agreement or disagreement.
4. Support your stance with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9

Music has long been considered a universal language, capable of transcending barriers of culture, age, and even language itself. I strongly agree with the notion that music serves as an excellent medium for bringing people together, regardless of their diverse backgrounds or generational differences.

Firstly, music’s ability to evoke emotions is a powerful tool in bridging cultural gaps. Whether it’s the rhythmic beats of African drums or the melodious strains of a Chinese erhu, music speaks to the heart, fostering understanding and appreciation across cultural boundaries. International music festivals, for instance, showcase this unifying power, where audiences from various countries come together to enjoy performances, creating a shared experience that goes beyond linguistic or cultural differences.

Moreover, music has a unique capacity to connect generations. The timeless appeal of classic songs often resonates with both young and old, creating common ground between grandparents and grandchildren. For example, the enduring popularity of bands like The Beatles or Queen spans multiple generations, providing a shared point of interest and discussion between people of different ages. This intergenerational connection through music not only facilitates communication but also promotes mutual respect and understanding.

Furthermore, the collaborative nature of music-making itself serves as a powerful unifying force. Community choirs, orchestras, and bands often bring together individuals from diverse backgrounds and age groups, united by their shared passion for music. These collaborative efforts not only produce beautiful harmonies but also foster friendships and understanding that might not have otherwise developed.

However, it’s important to acknowledge that while music is a powerful unifier, it is not a panacea for all cultural or generational divides. Personal tastes, cultural sensitivities, and generational preferences can sometimes create barriers. Nevertheless, the overall positive impact of music in bringing people together far outweighs these occasional limitations.

In conclusion, music undeniably possesses a remarkable ability to unite people across cultural and generational lines. Its universal appeal, emotional resonance, and collaborative nature make it an exceptional tool for fostering understanding, respect, and connection among diverse groups of people. As our world becomes increasingly interconnected, the role of music as a unifying force is likely to become even more significant.

(Word count: 345)

Music uniting people of different cultures and generations

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7

I agree that music is a good way to bring people from different cultures and ages together. Music has the power to connect people in many ways.

First, music is something that everyone can enjoy, no matter where they come from or how old they are. For example, at big music festivals, you can see people from many countries and of all ages enjoying the same songs together. This shows how music can make people feel united.

Also, music from different cultures can help people learn about and appreciate other ways of life. When someone listens to music from another country, they might become interested in that culture. This can lead to better understanding between people from different backgrounds.

For older and younger people, music can be a way to connect. Many young people enjoy classic songs that their parents or grandparents liked, and this can give them something to talk about and share. This helps bridge the gap between generations.

Music can also bring people together when they play or sing in groups. In community choirs or bands, people of different ages and backgrounds work together to make music. This teamwork can create friendships and understanding.

However, it’s true that not all music appeals to everyone. Some people might not like certain types of music, which can sometimes create barriers. But overall, music does more to bring people together than to separate them.

In conclusion, I believe music is an effective way to unite people from different cultures and age groups. It provides a shared experience that can overcome language barriers and age differences, promoting understanding and connection between diverse groups of people.

(Word count: 276)

Explaining the Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with good use of less common lexical items.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used flexibly and accurately, with only rare minor errors.

Band 6-7 Essay Analysis

This essay shows good writing skills but with some limitations:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task and presents a clear position, but some ideas could be more fully developed.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs could be better linked.
3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, but there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with generally good control, though some errors are present.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Transcending (verb) – /trænˈsend.ɪŋ/ – going beyond normal limits
2. Evoke (verb) – /ɪˈvoʊk/ – bring or recall to the conscious mind
3. Resonates (verb) – /ˈrez.ə.neɪts/ – evokes images, memories, and emotions
4. Panacea (noun) – /ˌpæn.əˈsiː.ə/ – a solution or remedy for all difficulties
5. Fostering (verb) – /ˈfɒs.tər.ɪŋ/ – encouraging the development of something
6. Enduring (adjective) – /ɪnˈdjʊə.rɪŋ/ – lasting over a period of time; durable
7. Collaborative (adjective) – /kəˈlæb.ər.ə.tɪv/ – involving two or more people working together
8. Intergenerational (adjective) – /ˌɪn.tə.dʒen.əˈreɪ.ʃən.əl/ – relating to relationships between members of different generations

The influence of music on emotional well-being is a crucial aspect of mental health, and understanding its impact can significantly enhance our approach to emotional regulation and social connections. As we’ve seen in these essays, music’s power to unite people across cultures and generations is a testament to its universal appeal and emotional resonance.

In conclusion, mastering essays on topics like the influence of music on mental health and emotions is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future exam questions might explore related themes such as:

• The role of music education in schools and its impact on students’ overall development
• The effects of music therapy on mental health patients
• The influence of modern music trends on youth culture and behavior

To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your ideas and writing style, preparing you for success in the IELTS exam.

Music therapy session for mental health

Remember, the key to excelling in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice, understanding the scoring criteria, and developing a rich vocabulary to express your ideas effectively. By analyzing sample essays and understanding the reasons behind their band scores, you can improve your own writing skills and approach similar topics with confidence.