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

Expert Band 6-9 model answers for IELTS Writing Task 2 divorce essays (positive negative). Get your score with authentic samples and detailed rubric breakdowns.

IELTS Writing Task 2: Divorce (Positive Negative) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers | English AIdol Blog

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Expert Band 6-9 model answers for IELTS Writing Task 2 divorce essays (positive negative). Get your score with authentic samples and detailed rubric breakdowns.

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

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The Full Prompt

Paraphrased Prompt: In some societies, divorce is increasing. Some people view this as a positive development, while others see it as a negative trend. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Note: This is a standard IELTS Writing Task 2 question that assesses your ability to present a balanced discussion and express a clear position.

Model Answers with Band Scores

Band 6.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with some repetition and underdeveloped ideas
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Logical but with some awkward transitions
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Adequate range but some errors in word choice
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Frequent errors but meaning remains clear

Answer:

Some people say divorce is good because it makes people happy. Others think it is bad because it hurts families. I think both are true.

First, divorce can be good. If people are not happy in their marriage, they should divorce. This is better than staying together and being unhappy. Also, children can be happier if their parents are not fighting all the time. In some countries, divorce is increasing because people understand this.

But divorce can also be bad. Children need both parents. If parents divorce, children might not get enough love and care. Also, divorce can make people very sad. Some people never find happiness again after divorce.

In my opinion, divorce is good if people are very unhappy. But they should think about their children first. If children will suffer too much, maybe it is better to stay together and try to fix problems.

Band 7.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with relevant, extended ideas
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Logical organization with clear transitions
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Sufficient range but some less precise word choices
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Some errors but generally accurate

Answer:

The issue of divorce has become more common in many societies, and opinions on this trend are divided. While some view it as a positive development, others see it as a negative one. I believe that divorce can be beneficial in certain situations, but it also has significant drawbacks.

On the one hand, divorce can be seen as a positive trend. It allows individuals to escape unhappy or abusive marriages, which can improve their mental health and overall well-being. Additionally, children may benefit from seeing their parents happier and more fulfilled, even if they are living apart. For example, in countries like Sweden, divorce rates are high, and studies show that people report higher levels of happiness after separating from unhappy partners.

On the other hand, divorce can have negative consequences. Children often suffer emotionally and psychologically when their parents divorce, as they may feel a sense of loss and instability. Additionally, divorce can lead to financial difficulties, as maintaining two households can be expensive. According to research, children from divorced families are more likely to struggle academically and socially.

In conclusion, while divorce can be a positive development in some cases, it also has significant drawbacks. I believe that couples should exhaust all options to resolve their issues before resorting to divorce, especially if they have children. However, in cases of abuse or extreme unhappiness, divorce may be the best option.

Band 8.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported ideas
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Logical organization with skillful use of transitions
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Wide range of vocabulary with only minor errors
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Few errors, but some complex sentences may have inaccuracies

Answer:

The increasing prevalence of divorce in modern societies has sparked a contentious debate. While some argue that this trend reflects positive societal progress, others contend that it signifies a deterioration of family values. In my view, divorce can be both beneficial and detrimental, depending on the circumstances.

Proponents of divorce often highlight its liberating effects. For instance, individuals trapped in toxic or loveless marriages can break free and pursue happiness, which is a fundamental human right. Furthermore, children raised in high-conflict households may experience relief and improved well-being once their parents separate. A study by the University of Cambridge found that children from divorced families often exhibit better mental health when the marital environment was previously hostile.

Conversely, opponents of divorce emphasize its adverse effects. The dissolution of marriage can lead to financial instability, emotional trauma, and social stigma. Children, in particular, may struggle with feelings of abandonment and insecurity. According to a report by the National Institute of Mental Health, children of divorced parents are at a higher risk of developing anxiety and depression. Additionally, the societal shift towards accepting divorce may trivialise the institution of marriage, potentially leading to weaker family bonds.

In conclusion, divorce is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. While it can provide a necessary escape from unhealthy relationships, it also carries significant emotional and social costs. Policymakers and communities should focus on providing support systems for divorced individuals and their children to mitigate these negative effects. Ultimately, the decision to divorce should be made with careful consideration of all factors, particularly the well-being of any children involved.

Band 9.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

  • Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a clear, informed position with fully extended and supported ideas
  • Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Logical organization with skillful use of transitions and paragraphing
  • Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Sophisticated vocabulary with precise usage
  • Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Accurate use of a wide range of grammatical structures

Answer:

The escalating divorce rates in contemporary societies have ignited a fiery debate, with proponents lauding it as a symbol of personal emancipation and detractors decrying it as a symptom of societal decay. I contend that divorce, while sometimes necessary, often exacts a heavy toll on individuals and communities, making its benefits a double-edged sword.

Advocates of divorce frequently cite its emancipatory potential. For instance, it empowers individuals to extricate themselves from oppressive or dysfunctional relationships, thereby fostering personal growth and happiness. Moreover, children subjected to chronic marital discord may thrive in post-divorce environments, as evidenced by a longitudinal study conducted by the American Psychological Association. The research revealed that children from high-conflict homes exhibited improved emotional well-being following their parents' separation, underscoring divorce's potential as a catalyst for positive change.

However, the corollary effects of divorce are equally compelling. The dissolution of marriage can precipitate financial hardship, emotional turmoil, and social ostracization. Children, in particular, may grapple with profound feelings of abandonment and insecurity, as elucidated in a comprehensive report by the World Health Organization. The report highlighted that offspring of divorced parents are disproportionately afflicted by mental health disorders, including anxiety and depression. Furthermore, the normalisation of divorce may engender a cynical perspective on marital commitment, potentially weakening the fabric of society.

In conclusion, divorce is a multifaceted issue that defies simplistic dichotomies. While it can serve as a salutary release from untenable situations, its ramifications are often pervasive and pernicious. To navigate this complex landscape, societies must strike a delicate balance between respecting individual autonomy and safeguarding the well-being of families. Policymakers should prioritise the implementation of robust support networks for divorcees and their progeny, ensuring that the scales of justice are not tipped unduly in favour of either party. Ultimately, the decision to divorce should be undertaken with the utmost circumspection, weighing the potential benefits against the myriad costs, both tangible and intangible.

Vocabulary Highlights

  1. Divorce rates (noun) - The number of divorces per year in a particular population. Example: Divorce rates have been climbing steadily over the past decade.
  1. Toxic relationships (noun phrase) - Relationships characterized by harmful behaviour. Example: She finally left her toxic relationship and found happiness.
  1. Liberating effects (noun phrase) - The sense of freedom and relief that comes from escaping a difficult situation. Example: The liberating effects of divorce can be profound for some individuals.
  1. Dysfunctional relationships (noun phrase) - Relationships that are not working well or causing problems. Example: Therapy can help couples in dysfunctional relationships.
  1. Personal emancipation (noun phrase) - Freedom from restrictions or oppressive influences. Example: Divorce can be seen as a form of personal emancipation.
  1. Marital discord (noun phrase) - Conflict or disagreement between spouses. Example: Marital discord can have a negative impact on children.
  1. Emotional turmoil (noun phrase) - A state of extreme emotional disturbance. Example: The divorce left her in a state of emotional turmoil.
  1. Social ostracization (noun phrase) - The act of excluding someone from a group or society. Example: Divorce can lead to social ostracization in some cultures.
  1. Catalyst for positive change (noun phrase) - Something that causes a significant improvement or transformation. Example: The divorce served as a catalyst for positive change in her life.
  1. Pernicious effects (noun phrase) - Harmful or destructive effects. Example: The pernicious effects of divorce on children are well-documented.
  1. Salutary release (noun phrase) - A beneficial or healing escape from a difficult situation. Example: Divorce can be a salutary release for some individuals.
  1. Robust support networks (noun phrase) - Strong and reliable systems of assistance. Example: Robust support networks are crucial for divorced individuals.
  1. Progeny (noun) - Children or descendants. Example: The divorce had a significant impact on their progeny.
  1. Circumspection (noun) - Careful consideration of potential consequences. Example: The decision to divorce should be made with the utmost circumspection.
  1. Untenable situations (noun phrase) - Situations that cannot be maintained or defended. Example: She finally left the untenable situation and started a new life.
  1. Pervasive ramifications (noun phrase) - Wide-reaching consequences. Example: The divorce had pervasive ramifications for the entire family.
  1. Tangible and intangible costs (noun phrase) - Both physical and emotional expenses. Example: The tangible and intangible costs of divorce are often overlooked.
  1. Double-edged sword (noun phrase) - Something that has both positive and negative aspects. Example: Divorce is a double-edged sword, offering both freedom and challenges.
  1. Contentious debate (noun phrase) - A heated or controversial discussion. Example: The issue of divorce has sparked a contentious debate.
  1. Personal growth (noun phrase) - The development of one's abilities and potential. Example: Divorce can sometimes lead to personal growth.

Common Mistakes Students Make

  1. Ignoring the Task: Some students fail to address both sides of the argument, focusing only on their personal opinion. This can result in a lower Task Response score.
  1. Weak Vocabulary: Using repetitive or basic vocabulary can limit your Lexical Resource score. Aim for a wide range of sophisticated words and phrases.
  1. Poor Organisation: A disjointed or illogical structure can negatively impact your Coherence and Cohesion score. Use clear paragraphing and transitions to guide the reader.
  1. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes can lower your Grammatical Range and Accuracy score. Proofread your work to catch and correct errors.
  1. Overgeneralising: Making sweeping statements without evidence can weaken your argument. Support your points with specific examples and data.

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