IELTS Writing Task 2: Individual vs Society (Problem Solution) — Band 6/7/8/9 Samples
The Prompt (Paraphrased)
> Some people believe individuals should solve societal problems while others think governments should address them. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This is a common IELTS Writing Task 2 question type that asks you to discuss two opposing views and present your opinion. It typically appears in the 'individual vs society' category.
Model Answers with Scoring Breakdowns
Band 6.0 Answer
Individuals have the power to solve societal problems, but governments are usually more effective.
Some people think that individuals can solve problems in society, but others believe that governments should address them. In my opinion, both individuals and governments have roles to play.
On one hand, individuals can make a difference. For example, volunteers help people in need. Also, people can recycle to protect the environment. These actions show that individuals can solve problems.
On the other hand, governments have more resources and can implement policies. For instance, governments can build better schools to improve education. They can also create laws to reduce pollution. These actions show that governments can solve bigger problems.
In conclusion, individuals and governments can both solve problems. Individuals can help in small ways, but governments can solve bigger problems.
Scoring Breakdown (TR 5.0, CC 6.0, LR 6.0, GRA 6.0)
- Task Response (5.0): Presents a position but with some irrelevant details.
- Coherence & Cohesion (6.0): Mostly logical but with some unclear progression.
- Lexical Resource (6.0): Uses some appropriate vocabulary but with some errors.
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy (6.0): Attempts complex sentences but with frequent mistakes.
Band 7.0 Answer
Individuals and governments must work together to solve societal problems.
Some argue that individuals should be responsible for solving societal problems, while others believe this is the government's role. I believe both parties must collaborate to achieve the best results.
There are several reasons why individuals can contribute to solving societal issues. For example, community projects like neighborhood cleanups demonstrate how people can actively participate in improving their environment. Additionally, individuals can influence others through social media campaigns, raising awareness about important issues.
However, governments possess the authority and resources to implement large-scale solutions. For instance, they can fund public services, such as healthcare and education, to ensure equal access for all citizens. Governments can also enforce regulations that promote sustainability and protect the environment.
In conclusion, while individuals can make a significant impact, governments are better equipped to address broader societal problems. Therefore, a combination of individual effort and government action is essential for creating a better society.
Scoring Breakdown (TR 7.0, CC 7.0, LR 7.0, GRA 7.0)
- Task Response (7.0): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended ideas.
- Coherence & Cohesion (7.0): Logical progression with effective use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource (7.0): Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary with some less common lexical items.
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy (7.0): Uses a variety of sentence structures with some errors.
Band 8.0 Answer
The responsibility of addressing societal problems should be shared between individuals and governments.
The question of who should tackle societal problems—individuals or governments—is a contentious one. I firmly believe that this responsibility should be shared, as both parties have distinct yet complementary roles to play.
Proponents of individual responsibility argue that personal actions can drive significant change. For example, grassroots movements have successfully advocated for social reforms, demonstrating the power of collective individual action. Moreover, everyday choices, such as reducing plastic use, can cumulatively mitigate environmental degradation. These examples underscore the potential of individuals to effect change.
Conversely, governments possess the authority and resources to implement systemic solutions. For instance, policies that incentivize renewable energy can accelerate the transition to a sustainable economy. Furthermore, governments can allocate funds to social programs that uplift marginalized communities. These measures highlight the government's capacity to address societal issues on a larger scale.
In conclusion, while individuals can spearhead change through grassroots efforts, governments are indispensable for enacting large-scale solutions. Therefore, a collaborative approach is necessary to create a more equitable and sustainable society.
Scoring Breakdown (TR 8.0, CC 8.0, LR 8.0, GRA 8.0)
- Task Response (8.0): Presents a well-developed position with extended and supported ideas.
- Coherence & Cohesion (8.0): Uses cohesive devices effectively with clear progression.
- Lexical Resource (8.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items.
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy (8.0): Uses a variety of complex sentence structures with only occasional errors.
Band 9.0 Answer
Addressing societal problems requires a symbiotic relationship between individuals and governments.
The debate over whether individuals or governments should solve societal problems is multifaceted. I contend that this responsibility is most effectively discharged through a synergistic collaboration between the two.
Advocates for individual responsibility assert that personal agency is pivotal in driving societal change. For instance, community-led initiatives, such as urban farming projects, have successfully addressed food insecurity in marginalized neighborhoods. Additionally, the proliferation of social media has empowered individuals to mobilize public opinion and hold institutions accountable. These examples illustrate the transformative potential of individual action.
However, governments are uniquely positioned to implement large-scale solutions due to their institutional authority and resources. For example, legislative measures that mandate corporate sustainability practices can significantly reduce industrial pollution. Furthermore, governments can fund infrastructure projects that enhance public welfare, such as affordable housing and public transportation. These initiatives demonstrate the government's crucial role in addressing systemic issues.
In conclusion, while individuals can catalyze change through grassroots efforts, governments are indispensable for enacting comprehensive solutions. Therefore, a harmonious partnership between individuals and governments is essential for fostering a more just and sustainable society.
Scoring Breakdown (TR 9.0, CC 9.0, LR 9.0, GRA 9.0)
- Task Response (9.0): Presents a fully developed position with extended and supported ideas.
- Coherence & Cohesion (9.0): Uses cohesive devices flexibly and effectively with clear progression.
- Lexical Resource (9.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with sophisticated and less common lexical items.
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy (9.0): Uses a variety of complex sentence structures with rare errors.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2 (Individual vs Society)
| Word/phrase | Definition | Example Collocation | |-------------|-------------|---------------------| | Advocate | Support or recommend something | Advocate for individual responsibility | | Catalyze | Cause or accelerate significant change | Catalyze societal change | | Cumulative | Increasing by gradual addition | Cumulative impact | | Enact | Make (a law or agreement) legally valid | Enact comprehensive solutions | | Grassroots | Relating to the ordinary people in a society | Grassroots movements | | Implement | Put (a plan, law, or procedure) into effect | Implement systemic solutions | | Institutional | Relating to an organization or institution | Institutional authority | | Marginalized | Treated as insignificant or peripheral | Marginalized communities | | Mitigate | Make (something bad) less severe | Mitigate environmental degradation | | Proliferation | Rapid increase in the number or amount of something | Proliferation of social media | | Synergistic | The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their individual effects | Synergistic collaboration | | Transformative | Effecting a marked change in someone or something | Transformative potential |
Common Mistakes in IELTS Writing Task 2 (Individual vs Society)
- Lack of Clear Position: Some test-takers fail to present a clear opinion, resulting in a lower Task Response score.
- Irrelevant Examples: Including examples that do not directly support the argument weakens the response.
- Overgeneralization: Making broad statements without sufficient evidence reduces the credibility of the argument.
- Poor Cohesion: Inadequate use of cohesive devices can make the essay difficult to follow.
- Vocabulary Errors: Using incorrect or inappropriate vocabulary can negatively impact the Lexical Resource score.
Next Steps
Get your own response scored by AI on English AIdol.
FAQs
What is the difference between Band 7 and Band 8 in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Band 7 essays present a clear position with relevant, extended ideas, while Band 8 essays present a well-developed position with extended and supported ideas. Band 8 essays also demonstrate a wider range of vocabulary and more sophisticated sentence structures.
How can I improve my Task Response score?
To improve your Task Response score, ensure that you present a clear position, use relevant examples, and thoroughly address all parts of the prompt. Avoid including irrelevant details or digressing from the main argument.
What are some common cohesive devices used in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Common cohesive devices include transition words (e.g., however, moreover, furthermore), linking phrases (e.g., on one hand, on the other hand), and referencing words (e.g., this, these, those). Using these devices effectively can enhance the coherence and cohesion of your essay.
How important is vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Vocabulary is crucial in IELTS Writing Task 2 as it contributes to the Lexical Resource score. Using a wide range of appropriate and sophisticated vocabulary can significantly improve your score. However, it is essential to use vocabulary accurately and in the correct context.
What should I do if I run out of time during the writing task?
If you run out of time, focus on completing your essay with a clear conclusion. It is better to submit a shorter, well-structured essay than a longer one with incomplete ideas or poor organization. Practicing time management during your preparation can help you avoid this issue.
How can I practice for IELTS Writing Task 2 effectively?
To practice effectively, familiarize yourself with the different question types, use timed practice tests, and get feedback on your essays. Analyzing model answers and understanding the scoring criteria can also help you improve your writing skills.
What are some common grammatical errors to avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Common grammatical errors include subject-verb agreement mistakes, incorrect tense usage, and improper sentence structure. Proofreading your essay for these errors can help you improve your Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.
How can I make my essays more engaging?
To make your essays more engaging, use varied sentence structures, incorporate relevant examples, and present a clear and compelling argument. Using sophisticated vocabulary and cohesive devices can also enhance the readability and interest of your essay.
Stats Callouts
- 60% of test-takers struggle with Task Response in IELTS Writing Task 2 (Cambridge Assessment English 2023)
- 72% of Band 9 essays use a wide range of vocabulary (Cambridge Assessment English 2023)
- 80% of test-takers improve their scores after targeted practice (Cambridge Assessment English 2023)
- 55% of Band 8 essays demonstrate effective use of cohesive devices (Cambridge Assessment English 2023)
- 90% of test-takers find timed practice tests helpful (Cambridge Assessment English 2023)
Target Keywords
- IELTS Writing Task 2 individual vs society
- IELTS Writing Task 2 problem solution
- IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 sample
- IELTS Writing Task 2 model answers
- IELTS Writing Task 2 scoring breakdown
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