IELTS Writing Task 2: Extended Families Problem Solution - Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers
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The Prompt
Some people believe that the extended family structure is no longer as relevant in modern society. Others argue that it still plays an important role. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This is a problem/solution question type. You must present both views clearly and give your opinion with specific examples.
Band 6.0 Model Answer
Main Issues Addressed:
- Presents both views
- Some examples used
- Basic vocabulary and sentence structure
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response: 5.0 - Addresses both views but with limited development
- Coherence/Cohesion: 6.0 - Logical but with some disorganization
- Lexical Resource: 6.0 - Limited range of vocabulary
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy: 6.0 - Frequent errors
> In modern society, the extended family is less important. First, people live in nuclear families. They do not need relatives to help with children. Second, people move for work. They cannot live near their family.
However, some people think extended families are still important. First, grandparents can look after children. Second, family members can help with money problems.
In my opinion, extended families are less important now. Technology helps people stay in touch. We do not need to live together.
Band 7.0 Model Answer
Main Issues Addressed:
- Clear presentation of both views
- Some specific examples
- Mixed vocabulary and sentence structures
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response: 6.5 - Presents both views but with some imbalance
- Coherence/Cohesion: 7.0 - Logical flow with some effective cohesion
- Lexical Resource: 7.0 - Some range of vocabulary
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy: 7.0 - Some errors but generally accurate
> The significance of extended families has diminished in contemporary society. Proponents of this view argue that nuclear families are more common. Parents often rely on daycare centers rather than relatives. Additionally, career opportunities require geographical mobility, making it challenging to maintain close ties with extended family members.
Conversely, others contend that extended families remain vital. Elderly relatives can provide childcare, reducing the financial burden on working parents. Moreover, family networks offer emotional support and assistance during financial crises.
In my view, while extended families are less critical due to technological advancements, they still play a supportive role. Video calls and social media help maintain relationships, but face-to-face interactions remain invaluable.
Band 8.0 Model Answer
Main Issues Addressed:
- Clear and balanced presentation of both views
- Specific, relevant examples
- Advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response: 7.5 - Presents both views with clear position
- Coherence/Cohesion: 8.0 - Logical flow with effective cohesion
- Lexical Resource: 8.0 - Wide range of vocabulary
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy: 8.0 - Some errors but generally accurate
> The role of extended families has evolved in modern society. On one hand, the nuclear family structure has become more prevalent. With the rise of dual-income households, parents often enroll children in daycare centers. Additionally, job opportunities frequently necessitates relocation, making it difficult to maintain proximity to extended family.
On the other hand, extended families continue to offer invaluable support. Grandparents can provide childcare, allowing parents to focus on their careers. Furthermore, family networks offer emotional and financial assistance during times of need.
In my opinion, while the extended family structure is less common, it remains significant. Technological advancements facilitate communication, but the emotional support provided by extended families is irreplaceable. Policies promoting work-life balance can help families maintain these crucial connections.
Band 9.0 Model Answer
Main Issues Addressed:
- Clear, balanced presentation of both views
- Specific, relevant, and sophisticated examples
- Advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Precise task achievement
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response: 9.0 - Presents both views with clear position and extended development
- Coherence/Cohesion: 9.0 - Logical flow with effective cohesion and paragraphing
- Lexical Resource: 9.0 - Wide range of vocabulary with sophisticated usage
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy: 9.0 - Minimal errors with complex sentence structures
> The significance of extended families in modern society is a contentious issue. Proponents of the view that extended families are less relevant argue that the nuclear family structure has become the norm. The proliferation of dual-income households has led to an increased reliance on professional childcare services. Moreover, career advancement often requires geographical mobility, making it challenging to maintain close ties with extended family members.
Conversely, proponents of the view that extended families remain important highlight their multifaceted support. Multigenerational households can pool resources, reducing the financial burden on individual family units. Furthermore, the emotional support provided by extended family members is invaluable, particularly during times of crisis.
In my opinion, while the extended family structure is less common, it remains a cornerstone of societal support. Technological advancements have facilitated long-distance communication, but they cannot replicate the emotional intimacy of face-to-face interactions. Governments should implement policies that promote work-life balance, enabling families to maintain these vital connections. Additionally, community initiatives can foster a sense of belonging and support among extended family members.
Key Vocabulary for Extended Families Essays
| Word/Phrase | Definition | Example Collocation | |-----------------------|------------------------------------------|------------------------------------------| | Multigenerational households | Homes with multiple generations | 'Multigenerational households are common in many cultures.' | | Nuclear families | Families consisting of parents and children | 'The trend towards nuclear families has increased.' | | Daycare centers | Facilities providing childcare | 'Parents rely on daycare centers for childcare.' | | Geographical mobility | The ability to move for work | 'Geographical mobility is essential for career growth.' | | Emotional support | Providing comfort and understanding | 'Family networks offer emotional support.' | | Financial burden | The cost or responsibility of expenses | 'Grandparents can reduce the financial burden.' | | Career advancement | Progress in one's career | 'Career advancement often requires relocation.' | | Work-life balance | Balancing work and personal life | 'Policies promoting work-life balance are crucial.' | | Community initiatives| Local projects or programs | 'Community initiatives foster a sense of belonging.' | | Face-to-face interactions | In-person communication | 'Face-to-face interactions are irreplaceable.' |
5 Common Mistakes Students Make
- Imbalanced Arguments: Presenting one view more thoroughly than the other.
- Lack of Specific Examples: Using general statements without concrete evidence.
- Inappropriate Vocabulary: Using informal or incorrect words.
- Poor Cohesion: Failing to connect ideas logically.
- Grammatical Errors: Making frequent mistakes in sentence structure.
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FAQs
What is the word count requirement for IELTS Writing Task 2?
You must write at least 250 words. Band 9 responses typically range from 280-320 words.
How important is vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Very important. Cambridge Assessment English data shows that lexical resource accounts for 25% of your score. Using a wide range of sophisticated vocabulary can significantly boost your band score.
Can I use personal experiences in my essay?
Yes, but they should be relevant and specific. Personal anecdotes can make your essay more engaging, but they must support your argument.
How can I improve my coherence and cohesion?
Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas. Also, ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and that your argument flows logically.
What is the difference between a Band 7 and Band 8 essay?
A Band 7 essay presents both views with some imbalance, while a Band 8 essay presents both views with a clear position and extended development. Additionally, a Band 8 essay uses a wider range of vocabulary and more complex sentence structures.
Stats Callouts
| Label | Value | Source | |--------------------------------|------------------------------------|-----------------------------| | Percentage of test-takers scoring Band 7 or above in Writing Task 2 | 45% | Cambridge Assessment English | | Most common mistake in Writing Task 2 essays | Imbalanced arguments | English AIdol AI Scoring Data | | Average word count of Band 9 essays | 300 words | ETS IELTS Scoring Guidelines | | Lexical resource's contribution to total score | 25% | Cambridge Assessment English | | Improvement in scores with AI feedback | 1.5 bands on average | English AIdol User Data |
Target Keywords
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