The role of social media in shaping public health behavior has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and past exam questions, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a real IELTS question related to this topic and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that social media has a positive influence on people’s health habits, while others believe it has a negative impact. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the positive influences of social media on health habits
- Examine the negative impacts of social media on health habits
- Provide their own opinion on the overall impact
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach while clearly stating your personal view.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the digital age, social media has become an integral part of our daily lives, significantly influencing various aspects of our behavior, including health habits. While some argue that these platforms positively impact health practices, others contend that their effect is detrimental. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of social media’s positive influence on health habits argue that these platforms serve as powerful tools for disseminating health information and promoting wellness. Platforms like Instagram and YouTube host numerous fitness influencers and health experts who share workout routines, nutritional advice, and motivational content, inspiring millions to adopt healthier lifestyles. Moreover, social media facilitates the formation of online communities centered around health goals, providing support and accountability for individuals striving to improve their well-being. For instance, weight loss groups on Facebook often encourage members to share their progress, creating a supportive environment that fosters long-term commitment to health objectives.
On the other hand, critics assert that social media can negatively impact health habits in several ways. The constant exposure to unrealistic body standards and seemingly perfect lifestyles can lead to poor self-image, anxiety, and even eating disorders, particularly among young users. Furthermore, the addictive nature of social media platforms can result in sedentary behavior, as users spend excessive time scrolling through feeds instead of engaging in physical activities. Additionally, the spread of misinformation about health topics on these platforms can lead to the adoption of potentially harmful practices or the rejection of evidence-based medical advice.
In my opinion, while social media undoubtedly has the potential to negatively influence health habits, its overall impact can be positive if used judiciously. The key lies in cultivating media literacy and critical thinking skills to navigate the vast amount of information available on these platforms. By following reputable health organizations and verified experts, users can harness the educational and motivational benefits of social media while minimizing exposure to potentially harmful content. Moreover, social media platforms themselves have a responsibility to promote accurate health information and implement measures to curb the spread of misinformation.
In conclusion, social media’s influence on health habits is a double-edged sword, capable of both promoting wellness and perpetuating harmful behaviors. However, with proper education and responsible use, these platforms can serve as valuable tools in improving public health awareness and practices.
(Word count: 395)
Social media influencing health habits
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets all the criteria for a high band score:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both positive and negative views and clearly stating a personal opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices. Ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “disseminating,” “perpetuating,” “judiciously”). There’s a good range of vocabulary related to the topic.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately. There are no noticeable errors.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, social media has become very popular and it affects many aspects of our lives, including our health habits. Some people think it has a good impact on health, while others believe it’s bad. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On the positive side, social media can help people learn about health and fitness. Many fitness trainers and doctors share useful information on platforms like Instagram and YouTube. This can motivate people to exercise more and eat healthier food. Also, social media groups can support people who want to lose weight or quit smoking. When people share their progress, it can encourage others to keep trying.
However, there are also negative effects of social media on health habits. Sometimes, social media shows unrealistic body images that make people feel bad about themselves. This can lead to problems like eating disorders, especially for young people. Another problem is that people spend too much time on social media instead of exercising or doing other healthy activities. Also, there’s a lot of fake health information on social media that can be dangerous if people believe it.
In my opinion, social media can be good for health habits if people use it carefully. It’s important to follow trustworthy sources and not believe everything we see online. People should also limit their time on social media and make sure they still do real-life activities.
To conclude, social media has both positive and negative effects on health habits. While it can provide useful information and support, it can also cause problems. I believe the key is to use social media wisely and balance it with a healthy lifestyle.
(Word count: 283)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some limitations:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “Also”).
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but lacks the sophistication of a higher band score. There’s some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “unrealistic body images”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good accuracy. However, it lacks the variety and sophistication of higher band scores.
Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with examples, but they could be more detailed and specific.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Disseminate (verb) – /dɪˈsemɪneɪt/ – to spread information widely
- Sedentary (adjective) – /ˈsed.ən.ter.i/ – characterized by much sitting and little physical activity
- Misinformation (noun) – /ˌmɪsɪnfərˈmeɪʃən/ – false or inaccurate information
- Perpetuate (verb) – /pərˈpetʃueɪt/ – to make something continue indefinitely
- Judiciously (adverb) – /dʒuːˈdɪʃəsli/ – with good judgment or sense
- Media literacy (noun) – /ˈmiːdiə ˈlɪt.ər.ə.si/ – the ability to identify different types of media and understand the messages they’re sending
- Culti
vate (verb) – /ˈkʌltɪveɪt/ – to try to acquire or develop a quality or skill
How public health campaigns influence lifestyle choices is another important aspect to consider when discussing the impact of social media on health behaviors. These campaigns often leverage social media platforms to reach wider audiences and promote healthier lifestyles.
Social media as a tool for health information dissemination
Conclusion
The role of social media in shaping public health behavior is a complex and multifaceted topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar questions, such as:
- To what extent do you think social media influencers are responsible for the health choices of their followers?
- Some people believe that governments should regulate health-related content on social media. Do you agree or disagree?
- Discuss the ways in which social media has changed how people access and interpret health information.
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly and seek feedback on your essays. Consider sharing your practice essays in the comments section below for constructive feedback from fellow learners and instructors. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and boost your confidence for the actual exam.
The role of social media in spreading awareness about mental health is another significant aspect to explore when discussing the impact of social media on public health behavior. This topic could potentially appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, so it’s worth considering in your preparation.