IELTS Writing Task 2: Mental Health (Two Part Question) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Some people believe that increasing technology use is positively affecting mental health. Others argue it is having a negative impact. To what extent do you agree or disagree with both views?

This is a two-part question requiring you to discuss both perspectives on technology's impact on mental health.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Although technology has improved mental health in some ways, I think it is generally bad for us. First, social media lets people connect with others which can reduce loneliness. However, too much screen time causes problems like eye strain and sleep issues. In my opinion, the negative effects are stronger.

Scoring Breakdown

Task Response (TR): 5 - Presents a position but doesn't fully address both views equally

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6 - Ideas are logically ordered but some coherence devices are missing

Lexical Resource (LR): 6 - Uses some less common vocabulary but with some inaccuracies

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6 - Makes frequent errors but meaning is usually clear

Band 7.0 Answer

The impact of technology on mental health is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. On one hand, digital tools provide access to mental health resources and support networks that were previously unavailable. Online therapy platforms and mental health apps have democratized access to professional help, particularly for those in remote areas or with mobility challenges.

On the other hand, excessive technology use correlates with increased anxiety and depression. The constant connectivity fosters a culture of comparison and Fear Of Missing Out (FOMO), while the blue light emitted by screens disrupts sleep patterns. A study by the University of Oxford found that limiting social media use to 30 minutes per day significantly improved well-being for many participants.

Scoring Breakdown

Task Response (TR): 7 - Addresses both views and presents a clear position

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7 - Uses cohesive devices effectively but could vary them more

Lexical Resource (LR): 7 - Uses some less common vocabulary appropriately

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7 - Makes occasional errors but they don't impede communication

Band 8.0 Answer

The relationship between technology and mental health is nuanced, with both beneficial and detrimental aspects worthy of consideration. Proponents argue that digital innovations have revolutionized mental health care delivery. Teletherapy platforms have removed geographical barriers to professional help, while mental health apps offer accessible, low-cost interventions for conditions ranging from mild anxiety to post-traumatic stress disorder.

Conversely, critics highlight the psychological toll of constant connectivity. The pressure to maintain a curated online persona contributes to increased stress levels, while digital communication often lacks the emotional nuance of face-to-face interactions. Research from Harvard University suggests that passive social media use - scrolling through others' highlight reels - is particularly correlated with feelings of inadequacy and depression.

Scoring Breakdown

Task Response (TR): 8 - Fully addresses both views with a clear position and relevant support

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8 - Uses a wide range of cohesive devices effectively

Lexical Resource (LR): 8 - Uses less common vocabulary with flexibility and precision

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with few errors

Band 9.0 Answer

The impact of technological advancements on psychological well-being presents a paradoxical dichotomy, offering both transformative benefits and significant challenges. Proponents of technology's positive influence emphasize its role in democratizing mental health resources. Digital platforms have made cognitive behavioral therapy techniques accessible to diverse populations, while online support communities provide invaluable peer-to-peer solidarity for individuals confronting stigmatized conditions.

However, the downside cannot be ignored. The omnipresence of digital devices fosters a culture of perpetual distraction, eroding our capacity for mindfulness and deep reflection. Neuroscientific research indicates that the chronic dopamine stimulation from notifications and likes may rewire reward pathways in the brain, potentially contributing to addictive behaviors and diminished emotional resilience. Furthermore, algorithm-driven content curation often creates echo chambers that exacerbate existing mental health struggles.

Scoring Breakdown

Task Response (TR): 9 - Fully addresses all parts of the question with a sophisticated position

Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9 - Uses cohesive devices with precision and flexibility

Lexical Resource (LR): 9 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with full flexibility and precision

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 9 - Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy

Key Vocabulary

1. Psychological well-being: A person's overall mental state, including emotional and social health

1. Democratizing: Making something accessible to everyone

1. Cognitive behavioral therapy (CBT): A type of psychological treatment that aims to solve problems concerning dysfunctional emotions, behaviors, and cognitions

1. Peer-to-peer solidarity: Mutual support and understanding among equals

1. Stigmatized conditions: Medical or psychological conditions that are subject to social disapproval

1. Perpetual distraction: Constant interruption of attention

1. Mindfulness: The practice of maintaining a moment-by-moment awareness of our thoughts, feelings, bodily sensations, and surrounding environment

1. Neuroscientific research: The scientific study of the nervous system

1. Dopamine stimulation: The release of a neurotransmitter associated with pleasure and reward

1. Rewire: To alter a physiological process or behavior

1. Reward pathways: Neural circuits involved in the experience of pleasure and the learning process

1. Addictive behaviors: Patterns of behavior that become compulsive and difficult to control

1. Emotional resilience: The ability to adapt to stressful situations or crises

1. Algorithm-driven content curation: The use of computational formulas to select and organize digital content

1. Echo chambers: Situations where information, ideas, or beliefs are amplified or reinforced by transmission and repetition inside an insulated system

Common Mistakes

1. Ignoring one side of the argument: Many test-takers focus only on the negative or positive aspects, failing to address both parts of the question

1. Using informal language: Words like 'kids', 'stuff', and 'you know' are inappropriate for academic writing

1. Lack of specific examples: General statements without supporting evidence weaken arguments

1. Poor time management: Running out of time to complete both parts of the response

1. Overusing complex sentences: Attempting too many complex structures often leads to grammatical errors

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI

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FAQs

How important is vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Vocabulary accounts for 25% of your score in the Lexical Resource criterion. Using a range of appropriate, less common words with precision will significantly boost your score.

How can I improve my coherence and cohesion score?

Use a variety of cohesive devices (linking words, conjunctions, reference words) to connect your ideas. Organize your response with clear paragraphs and a logical progression of ideas.

Should I write more than 250 words?

While there's no strict word count, aiming for 250-280 words is generally sufficient. Quality is more important than quantity - focus on addressing all parts of the question with well-developed arguments.

Can I use personal experience in my response?

While personal anecdotes can be effective, they should be used to illustrate broader points rather than as the main focus of your response. Academic sources and general examples are often more persuasive.

How can I manage my time effectively during the writing test?

Spend 5 minutes planning your response, 35 minutes writing, and 5 minutes proofreading. Set a timer to stay on track during each stage.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Stats

60% of test-takers underuse complex sentences

Source: Cambridge Assessment English 2023

75% of Band 8+ responses include at least one academic reference

Source: IELTS Official Practice Materials

Only 30% of Band 6 responses fully address both parts of the question

Source: IELTS Examiner Training Materials

Target Keywords

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