IELTS Writing Task 2: Divorce (Advantages Disadvantages) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Some people believe that divorce is advantageous for individuals, while others see it as harmful to society. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6 Answer

Some people think divorce is good for people, but others believe it is bad for society. I think divorce can be good or bad depending on the situation.

There are several advantages to divorce. First, if a marriage is not working, divorce can help people find happiness again. For example, if two people are always fighting, it is better for them to separate. Also, divorce can give people the chance to start a new life. For instance, someone who is unhappy in their marriage might meet a new partner and be happier.

However, divorce can also be bad for society. One reason is that children from divorced families often have problems. Studies show that kids from broken homes do worse in school and have more behavioral issues. Another problem is that divorce can cause financial difficulties. When two people split up, they often have to share money, which can be stressful.

In my opinion, divorce is acceptable when a marriage is really bad, but people should try to fix their problems first. If they can't, then divorce might be the best solution.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (5.0) - Presents a position but with some irrelevant points. Opinion is unclear.
• Coherence and Cohesion (5.5) - Ideas are logically organized but with some unclear progression. Some cohesive devices are used appropriately.
• Lexical Resource (5.5) - Uses some less common vocabulary but with some errors. Some word choices are repetitive.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (6.0) - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with some errors.

Band 7 Answer

The issue of divorce has both supporters and opponents. While some argue it benefits individuals, others contend it harms societal stability. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a personal stance.

On one hand, divorce can be beneficial. Primarily, it provides an escape from unhappy or abusive relationships. For instance, victims of domestic violence often find freedom through divorce. Additionally, it allows individuals to pursue personal growth. A divorced person might rediscover their interests or career aspirations that were previously neglected. Furthermore, divorce can lead to healthier relationships in the future. Many people find more compatible partners after ending unsuccessful marriages.

Conversely, divorce can negatively impact society. Childhood development is often affected, as children from divorced families frequently exhibit emotional and behavioral issues. Economically, divorce can strain resources. The legal process is costly, and single-parent households often face financial hardships. Socially, divorce can weaken the institution of marriage, potentially leading to lower commitment rates in future relationships.

In my view, while divorce has societal drawbacks, its individual benefits often outweigh them. It is a necessary option for those in untenable situations.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (7.0) - Presents a clear position throughout the response. Arguments are supported with relevant examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (7.0) - Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used appropriately.
• Lexical Resource (7.0) - Uses a mix of common and less common vocabulary with some errors. Word choices are generally appropriate.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (7.0) - Uses a variety of sentence structures with some errors. Grammar is generally accurate.

Band 8 Answer

The contentious topic of divorce elicits diverse viewpoints, with proponents highlighting personal liberation and critics emphasizing societal ramifications. This essay will explore both arguments before advocating for a nuanced perspective.

Proponents of divorce argue compellingly for its advantages. Firstly, it offers an escape from toxic relationships, which can have severe psychological and physical consequences. For example, individuals in abusive marriages often find divorce to be a lifesaving decision. Secondly, divorce can catalyze personal reinvention. Many people use the opportunity to pursue education, career advancements, or new relationships that align with their true selves. Moreover, divorce can lead to healthier family dynamics. Children raised in high-conflict households often benefit from the reduction in tension post-divorce.

Critics, however, posit that divorce undermines societal stability. The emotional toll on children can be profound, with studies indicating higher rates of anxiety, depression, and academic underachievement among children of divorced parents. Financially, divorce can be devastating. Legal fees, alimony, and the economic strain of single parenthood can perpetuate cycles of poverty. Sociologically, the rise in divorce rates may contribute to a societal devaluation of marital commitment, potentially leading to higher rates of cohabitation without marriage.

In conclusion, while divorce undeniably has societal costs, its personal benefits in specific contexts are substantial. A balanced approach that supports individuals in need while addressing societal impacts is ideal.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (8.0) - Presents a clear position throughout the response. Arguments are supported with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion (8.0) - Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately.
• Lexical Resource (8.0) - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items. Word choices are generally precise and natural.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (8.5) - Uses a variety of complex sentence structures with mostly accurate grammar. Some errors may occur but do not impede communication.

Band 9 Answer

The debate surrounding divorce is multifaceted, with proponents championing individual autonomy and detractors citing societal erosion. This discourse will dissect both viewpoints before advocating for a pragmatic stance.

Advocates for divorce present persuasive arguments. Primarily, it serves as a crucial mechanism for extricating individuals from detrimental relationships. Empirical data reveals that divorcees, particularly those escaping abusive situations, often experience significant improvements in mental health and quality of life. Additionally, divorce can facilitate profound personal growth. Many individuals leverage this transition to reconnect with their aspirations, pursue higher education, or establish more fulfilling relationships. Furthermore, divorce can foster healthier family dynamics. Research indicates that children in chronically conflict-ridden homes often thrive in post-divorce environments characterized by reduced tension.

Conversely, the societal implications of divorce are substantial. Psychologically, children of divorce frequently grapple with emotional turmoil, manifesting in elevated rates of depression and behavioral issues. Economically, the repercussions are dire. The financial burden of legal proceedings, coupled with the challenges of single parenthood, can precipitate long-term economic instability. Sociologically, the normalization of divorce may contribute to a dilution of marital commitment, potentially fostering a culture of transient relationships.

In concluding, while divorce exacts a societal toll, its personal benefits in specific circumstances are incontrovertible. A discerning approach that prioritizes individual well-being while mitigating societal impacts is paramount.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (9.0) - Presents a clear position throughout the response. Arguments are supported with relevant, extended, and supported ideas. Presents a conclusion that follows logically from the evidence and argument.
• Coherence and Cohesion (9.0) - Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Cohesive devices are used flexibly and appropriately. Paragraphing is skillful with clear central topic in each paragraph.
• Lexical Resource (9.0) - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with less common lexical items used appropriately. Word choices are precise and natural. Uses collocation and idiomatic language naturally.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (9.0) - Uses a variety of complex sentence structures with accurate grammar. Errors are rare and do not impede communication.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Contentious (adjective): controversial, disputed. The contentious issue of divorce elicits strong opinions.
2. Proponents (noun): supporters, advocates. Proponents of divorce argue for its benefits.
3. Toxic (adjective): poisonous, harmful. Divorce offers an escape from toxic relationships.
4. Catalyze (verb): to cause or accelerate. Divorce can catalyze personal reinvention.
5. Devalued (adjective): reduced in value or importance. Divorce may contribute to a devaluation of marital commitment.
6. Extricating (verb): to free or release. Divorce serves as a mechanism for extricating individuals from detrimental relationships.
7. Empirical (adjective): based on observation or experiment. Empirical data reveals improvements in mental health post-divorce.
8. Grappling (verb): to struggle with. Children of divorce often grapple with emotional turmoil.
9. Precipitate (verb): to cause suddenly. The financial burden can precipitate economic instability.
10. Incontestable (adjective): undeniable, clear. The personal benefits of divorce in specific circumstances are incontestable.
11. Paramount (adjective): of chief importance. A pragmatic approach is paramount.
12. Advocate (verb): to support or recommend. Advocates for divorce present persuasive arguments.
13. Manifesting (verb): to show or display. Emotional turmoil manifests in behavioral issues.
14. Leverage (verb): to use something to maximum advantage. Many individuals leverage this transition to reconnect with their aspirations.
15. Chronically (adverb): persistently, long-term. Children in chronically conflict-ridden homes often thrive post-divorce.

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Lack of Balance: Focusing too much on one side of the argument and neglecting the other.
2. Weak Examples: Using vague or personal examples instead of specific, relevant ones.
3. Poor Vocabulary: Using repetitive or basic vocabulary instead of a range of sophisticated words.
4. Grammar Errors: Making frequent grammatical mistakes that hinder clarity.
5. Task Misunderstanding: Not answering the question directly, such as only discussing advantages without mentioning disadvantages.

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