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

Related guides:

• IELTS Writing Task 2 Renewable Energy Two Part Question…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution (Advantages…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Climate Change Discussion Sample Band…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Deforestation Two Part Question Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Renewable Energy Agree Disagree Sample…

The Prompt

Some people believe that cyberbullying has positive effects, while others argue that it only has negative consequences. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 6.0 Model Answer

Cyberbullying is a big problem today. Some people think it has good sides, but I think it is only bad.

First, some say cyberbullying can make people stronger. They think if someone is bullied online, they will learn to be tough. Also, it can make people more careful about what they post online. But I don't agree. Cyberbullying can make people very sad and even make them want to hurt themselves. Many studies show that victims of cyberbullying have more mental health problems.

Second, some think cyberbullying can help people learn about the internet. They say it teaches people to be careful online. But I think this is not a good way to learn. There are better ways to teach people about internet safety, like schools teaching lessons or parents talking to their kids.

In my opinion, cyberbullying is only bad. It hurts people and makes them feel alone. We should stop cyberbullying by making rules and punishing people who do it. Schools and parents should teach kids to be kind online.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a position but does not extend or support ideas sufficiently. (Band 6.0)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Organizes information but with some unclear or repetitive links. (Band 6.0)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses some appropriate vocabulary but with frequent errors and limited range. (Band 6.0)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses simple sentence forms with frequent errors. (Band 6.0)

Band 7.0 Model Answer

The phenomenon of cyberbullying has become increasingly prevalent in recent years. While some argue that it has certain positive aspects, I firmly believe that the negative consequences far outweigh any potential benefits.

On one hand, proponents of cyberbullying's positive effects argue that it can help individuals develop resilience. They contend that experiencing cyberbullying can teach people to cope with adversity and become stronger. Additionally, some believe that cyberbullying can serve as a deterrent, making people more cautious about their online behavior. However, these arguments are flawed. The psychological impact of cyberbullying is severe, often leading to anxiety, depression, and even suicidal thoughts. According to a study by the American Psychological Association, victims of cyberbullying are twice as likely to experience mental health issues.

On the other hand, some suggest that cyberbullying can educate people about internet safety. They argue that experiencing cyberbullying firsthand can teach individuals to be more vigilant online. Nevertheless, this is a dangerous and ineffective way to learn about internet safety. There are more constructive methods, such as educational programs and parental guidance, that can teach people to navigate the internet safely without causing harm.

In conclusion, while some may attempt to justify cyberbullying by highlighting its potential positive effects, the reality is that it causes significant harm. To combat this issue, we must implement stricter laws, promote digital literacy, and foster a culture of kindness and respect online.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with some extension and support. (Band 7.0)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Organizes information logically with clear progression. (Band 7.0)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary with some less common lexical items. (Band 7.0)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors. (Band 7.0)

Band 8.0 Model Answer

The pervasive issue of cyberbullying has sparked a debate regarding its potential positive effects versus its undeniable negative consequences. While some advocate for the former, I strongly believe that the detrimental impacts outweigh any purported benefits.

Advocates of cyberbullying's positive effects argue that it can foster resilience and teach individuals to navigate challenging situations. They posit that experiencing cyberbullying can help people develop coping mechanisms and become more robust in the face of adversity. Furthermore, some contend that cyberbullying can serve as a cautionary tale, encouraging individuals to be more mindful of their online actions. However, these arguments are largely speculative and fail to consider the severe psychological ramifications. Research conducted by the National Institute of Mental Health indicates that victims of cyberbullying are at a significantly higher risk of developing mental health disorders, including depression and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Proponents of cyberbullying's educational value argue that it can teach people about internet safety. They suggest that experiencing cyberbullying firsthand can make individuals more aware of the potential dangers online. Nevertheless, this perspective is misguided. There are more effective and humane ways to educate people about internet safety, such as through comprehensive educational programs and open dialogue with trusted adults.

In my view, cyberbullying is a serious problem that requires immediate attention. To mitigate its effects, we must enact stricter legislation, promote digital literacy, and cultivate a culture of empathy and respect in online communities. By taking these steps, we can create a safer and more supportive digital environment for all.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with thorough extension and support. (Band 8.0)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Organizes information logically with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices. (Band 8.0)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with flexibility and precision. (Band 8.0)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences. (Band 8.0)

Band 9.0 Model Answer

The ubiquitous nature of cyberbullying has ignited a contentious debate regarding its potential benefits and its manifestly detrimental consequences. While some proponents extol its virtues, I contend that the negative impacts are far more profound and pervasive.

Proponents of cyberbullying's positive effects argue that it can cultivate resilience and fortitude in individuals. They assert that experiencing cyberbullying can equip people with the tools to cope with adversity and emerge stronger. Moreover, they suggest that cyberbullying can act as a deterrent, prompting individuals to exercise greater caution in their online interactions. However, these arguments are largely anecdotal and fail to account for the severe psychological toll. According to a comprehensive study by the World Health Organization, victims of cyberbullying are three times more likely to experience long-term mental health issues, including chronic anxiety and depression.

Advocates of cyberbullying's educational value posit that it can serve as a stark reminder of the potential dangers lurking in the digital landscape. They argue that experiencing cyberbullying firsthand can heighten individuals' awareness of online risks. Nevertheless, this perspective is flawed and potentially harmful. There are more constructive and ethical methods to educate people about internet safety, such as through evidence-based educational initiatives and open, supportive dialogue with mentors and peers.

In my view, cyberbullying is a critical issue that demands urgent action. To mitigate its pernicious effects, we must implement robust legislative measures, foster digital literacy, and nurture a culture of empathy and respect in virtual communities. By adopting a multi-faceted approach, we can create a digital environment that is not only safer but also more inclusive and supportive.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear, informed, and supported position with thorough extension and support. (Band 9.0)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Organizes information logically with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices. (Band 9.0)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with flexibility and precision, including less common lexical items. (Band 9.0)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences. (Band 9.0)

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Pervasive (adj.): Widespread and influential. Example: Cyberbullying has become a pervasive issue in modern society.
2. Resilience (n.): The ability to recover quickly from difficulties. Example: Experiencing adversity can help build resilience.
3. Psychological ramifications (n.): The consequences of an action or event on mental health. Example: Cyberbullying can have severe psychological ramifications.
4. Mitigate (v.): To make something less severe, serious, or painful. Example: Stricter laws can help mitigate the effects of cyberbullying.
5. Digital literacy (n.): The ability to use information and communication technologies to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information. Example: Promoting digital literacy is essential in today's society.
6. Ubiquitous (adj.): Present, appearing, or found everywhere. Example: The ubiquitous nature of the internet has made cyberbullying more prevalent.
7. Fortitude (n.): Courage in pain or adversity. Example: Experiencing cyberbullying can help build fortitude.
8. Anecdotal (adj.): Based on or consisting of reports or observations of usually unscientific observers. Example: The arguments in favor of cyberbullying are largely anecdotal.
9. Manifestly (adv.): Clearly or obviously. Example: The detrimental consequences of cyberbullying are manifestly severe.
10. Perpetuate (v.): To make something continue indefinitely or repeatedly. Example: Cyberbullying can perpetuate a cycle of violence and harassment.
11. Deterrent (n.): A thing that discourages or is intended to discourage someone from doing something. Example: Stricter laws can act as a deterrent to cyberbullying.
12. Cultivate (v.): To try to acquire or develop a quality, sentiment, or skill. Example: Schools should cultivate a culture of respect and empathy.
13. Comprehensive (adj.): Including or dealing with all or nearly all aspects of something. Example: A comprehensive study by the WHO found that cyberbullying has severe mental health impacts.
14. Ethical (adj.): Relating to moral principles or the science of morals. Example: There are more ethical ways to educate people about internet safety.
15. Multi-faceted (adj.): Having many different aspects or features. Example: A multi-faceted approach is needed to combat cyberbullying.
16. Inclusive (adj.): Intending to include all members of a particular group. Example: We should create an inclusive digital environment.
17. Virtues (n.): Behaviors or characteristics considered morally good. Example: Some proponents extol the virtues of cyberbullying.
18. Contentious (adj.): Causing or likely to cause an argument. Example: The debate regarding cyberbullying is contentious.
19. Stark (adj.): Harsh or severe in appearance or impression. Example: Experiencing cyberbullying can serve as a stark reminder of online dangers.
20. Evidence-based (adj.): Based on or informed by observed or measured facts. Example: There are evidence-based educational initiatives to teach internet safety.

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Failing to Present a Clear Position: Students often present both sides of the argument without clearly stating their own opinion. This can lead to a lower score in the Task Response criterion.
2. Lack of Specific Examples: Students may discuss the topic in general terms without providing specific examples or evidence to support their arguments. This can result in a lower score in the Task Response and Coherence and Cohesion criteria.
3. Poor Vocabulary Choice: Students may use inappropriate or incorrect vocabulary, which can lead to a lower score in the Lexical Resource criterion. It's important to use a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately.
4. Grammatical Errors: Students may make frequent grammatical errors, which can lead to a lower score in the Grammatical Range and Accuracy criterion. It's important to use a wide range of complex sentence forms with frequent error-free sentences.
5. Lack of Coherence and Cohesion: Students may present their ideas in a disjointed or unclear manner, which can lead to a lower score in the Coherence and Cohesion criterion. It's important to organize information logically with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices.

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol

Practice makes perfect. Get your own IELTS Writing Task 2 response scored by AI on English AIdol and receive detailed feedback to help you improve your score.