IELTS Writing Task 2: Alcohol Consumption (Positive Negative) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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Prompt

Some people believe that alcohol consumption has positive effects on society, while others argue that it creates more problems than benefits. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 9 Model Answer

Alcohol consumption remains a contentious issue in modern society, with proponents highlighting its social lubricant properties while opponents focus on its detrimental health effects. Proponents argue that moderate alcohol intake fosters social bonding and even offers certain health benefits. For instance, red wine contains antioxidants that may modulate cardiovascular risk. Additionally, alcohol consumption often accompanies celebratory events, enhancing communal spirit and relaxation.

However, the potential drawbacks are more pronounced. Excessive alcohol consumption leads to severe health consequences, including liver cirrhosis and addiction. The economic burden on healthcare systems is substantial, with 3 million deaths annually attributable to alcohol-related causes (WHO, 2023). Moreover, alcohol abuse correlates with increased crime rates and domestic violence, disrupting societal harmony. While moderate consumption may social benefits, excessive intake leads to severe health consequences. Governments should enforce stricter regulations on alcohol marketing and availability to mitigate these issues.

This response earns Band 9 for:

• Task Response: Presents a clear position with balanced discussion and relevant examples.
• Coherence & Cohesion: Logical progression with advanced cohesive devices (e.g., 'However', 'Moreover').
• Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary (e.g., 'contentious', 'modulate', 'antagonistic').
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Varied sentence structures with minimal errors.

Band 8 Model Answer

Alcohol consumption's impact on society is a subject of ongoing debate. Supporters contend that alcohol fosters social interactions and can provide health benefits when consumed in moderation. For example, studies suggest that moderate wine consumption may reduce heart disease risk. Additionally, alcohol is often integral to cultural celebrations, promoting community cohesion.

Nevertheless, the negative effects cannot be overlooked. Alcohol abuse leads to serious health issues, including addiction and liver disease. Economically, the costs of treating alcohol-related illnesses strain healthcare systems. Furthermore, alcohol contributes to social problems like violence and accidents. While alcohol has some benefits, its negative impacts outweigh them. Implementation of public health campaigns and stricter alcohol laws could help address these challenges.

This response earns Band 8 for:

• Task Response: Clearly presents both views with a slightly stronger focus on negatives.
• Coherence & Cohesion: Good logical flow but slightly less varied cohesive devices than Band 9.
• Lexical Resource: Strong vocabulary (e.g., 'strain', 'impact') but fewer sophisticated terms than Band 9.
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Accurate but slightly less complex than Band 9.

Band 7 Model Answer

People have different opinions about alcohol consumption. Some believe it is good for society because it helps people relax and enjoy social events. For example, having a drink with friends can make people happier. Additionally, some types of alcohol, like red wine, have health benefits.

On the other hand, alcohol can cause many problems. Drinking too much can lead to health problems like liver disease. It can also cause accidents and violent behavior. Many people become addicted to alcohol, which affects their families and jobs. I think the negative effects are worse than the positive ones. Governments should do more to limit alcohol advertising and sales.

This response earns Band 7 for:

• Task Response: Addresses both views but with less depth and fewer examples.
• Coherence & Cohesion: Logical but simpler transitions (e.g., 'On the other hand').
• Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary (e.g., 'addicted', 'limit') but lacks sophistication.
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Mostly accurate with some basic errors.

Band 6 Model Answer

Alcohol is good and bad for society. Some people say it is good because it makes social events fun. Drinking with friends can be enjoyable. Also, some alcohol like wine is healthy.

But alcohol is bad too. If people drink too much, they get sick. Drinking causes accidents and fights. Many people become addicted and lose their jobs. I think alcohol is bad. The government should stop people from drinking too much.

This response earns Band 6 for:

• Task Response: Presents both views but with minimal development and examples.
• Coherence & Cohesion: Basic logical flow but overly simplistic transitions.
• Lexical Resource: Limited vocabulary with some repetition and basic errors.
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Frequent errors and simplistic structures.

Vocabulary Highlights

| Word/Expression | Definition | Example Collocation | |-----------------|------------|---------------------| | Contentious | Controversial, debated | Contentious issue | Modulate | Regulate, control | Modulate risk | Antagonistic | Hostile, opposing | Antagonistic effects | Pronounced | Clear, evident | Pronounced drawbacks | Circumstances | Conditions, situations | Circumstantial evidence | Cohesion | Unity, togetherness | Community cohesion | Integral | Essential, fundamental | Integral to | Strains | Pressures, burdens | Economic strains | Campaigns | Organized efforts | Public health campaigns | Implementation | Execution, application | Implementation of laws

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Overgeneralizing: Saying alcohol is 'always good' or 'always bad' without nuance.
2. Lack of Examples: Failing to support arguments with specific evidence.
3. Weak Vocabulary: Using repetitive or basic words (e.g., 'good', 'bad') instead of precise terms.
4. Poor Structure: Not clearly separating positive and negative points.
5. Grammatical Errors: Common mistakes include subject-verb agreement and article usage.

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