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

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The Prompt

Some people believe that racism is a thing of the past, while others argue that it still exists in modern societies. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

The racism is a big problem in the world. Some people think it is not a problem anymore, but others say it still exists. I think it is still a problem.

In some countries, people say racism is not a problem anymore. They think laws and education have made things better. For example, in America, there are laws against racism. Also, schools teach about equality. But I think racism still exists. In many places, people are treated differently because of their race. For example, some people get better jobs because of their race. Also, some people are treated badly because of their skin color.

In conclusion, I think racism is still a problem. We need to do more to stop it. Governments and schools should teach people about equality and respect.

Scoring Breakdown

• TR (Task Response): Addresses both views but lacks depth and specific examples.
• CC (Coherence and Cohesion): Ideas are presented but lack clear progression and logical connectors.
• LR (Lexical Resource): Limited range of vocabulary with some errors in word choice.
• GRA (Grammatical Range and Accuracy): Basic sentence structures with frequent grammatical errors.

Band 7.0 Answer

Racism remains a contentious issue, with some arguing it has diminished, while others contend it persists. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my stance.

On one hand, many believe racism is no longer a significant issue. They point to anti-discrimination laws and increased awareness as evidence. For instance, countries like Canada have strict laws against racial discrimination. Additionally, educational programs promote tolerance and understanding. These efforts have led to a more inclusive society where overt racism is less acceptable.

However, others argue racism still exists, albeit in more subtle forms. For example, studies show that people with certain ethnic backgrounds face discrimination in employment and housing. Moreover, hate crimes based on race continue to occur. These incidents highlight that racism is still a problem that needs addressing.

In my opinion, racism persists but has evolved. While overt racism is less common, systemic and subtle forms remain. Governments and societies must continue to address these issues through education and policy changes.

Scoring Breakdown

• TR (Task Response): Addresses both views with some development and examples.
• CC (Coherence and Cohesion): Ideas are logically organized with some use of cohesive devices.
• LR (Lexical Resource): Adequate range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items.
• GRA (Grammatical Range and Accuracy): Varied sentence structures with some errors.

Band 8.0 Answer

The prevalence of racism in contemporary societies is a topic of debate, with some asserting its decline and others highlighting its persistence. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting a personal perspective.

Proponents of the view that racism is diminishing cite legal and social progress. Anti-discrimination legislation, such as the Civil Rights Act in the United States, has been enacted to protect marginalized groups. Furthermore, educational initiatives and media campaigns have raised awareness about the detrimental effects of racism. These efforts have contributed to a societal shift where overt racism is widely condemned.

Conversely, those who argue that racism persists point to persistent inequalities and subtle forms of discrimination. For example, research indicates that individuals from certain ethnic backgrounds face barriers in employment and education. Additionally, hate crimes and microaggressions continue to affect marginalized communities. These issues underscore the need for ongoing efforts to combat racism.

In my view, while overt racism has decreased, systemic and subtle forms remain prevalent. Addressing these issues requires a multifaceted approach, including stronger legal protections, education, and societal dialogue. Only through sustained effort can we hope to achieve a truly equitable society.

Scoring Breakdown

• TR (Task Response): Addresses both views with detailed development and relevant examples.
• CC (Coherence and Cohesion): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices.
• LR (Lexical Resource): Wide range of vocabulary with precise word choice and some less common lexical items.
• GRA (Grammatical Range and Accuracy): Varied sentence structures with minimal errors.

Band 9.0 Answer

The enduring presence of racism in modern societies has sparked a contentious debate, with some advocating its decline and others emphasizing its persistence. This essay will critically evaluate both perspectives before presenting a nuanced stance.

Advocates of the view that racism has diminished point to significant legal and social advancements. The implementation of anti-discrimination laws, such as the Equality Act in the United Kingdom, has provided legal recourse for victims of racial discrimination. Additionally, educational programs and media campaigns have fostered a greater understanding of the complexities of racism. These initiatives have contributed to a societal shift where overt racism is widely condemned and less tolerated.

However, those who contend that racism persists argue that systemic and subtle forms of discrimination remain pervasive. For instance, studies conducted by the United Nations have revealed that individuals from certain ethnic backgrounds continue to face disparities in employment, education, and healthcare. Furthermore, the persistence of hate crimes and microaggressions underscores the need for ongoing efforts to address these issues. These subtle forms of racism can be just as damaging as overt forms, as they perpetuate a cycle of marginalization and inequality.

In my view, while overt racism has decreased, systemic and subtle forms of discrimination remain deeply entrenched in many societies. Addressing these issues requires a comprehensive approach that includes stronger legal protections, education, and societal dialogue. Governments, educational institutions, and communities must work together to foster a more inclusive and equitable society. Only through sustained and collective effort can we hope to achieve a world where racism is truly a thing of the past.

Scoring Breakdown

• TR (Task Response): Addresses both views with detailed development, relevant examples, and a clear personal stance.
• CC (Coherence and Cohesion): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression, effective use of cohesive devices, and a sophisticated structure.
• LR (Lexical Resource): Wide range of vocabulary with precise word choice, sophisticated vocabulary, and natural collocations.
• GRA (Grammatical Range and Accuracy): Varied sentence structures with minimal errors and complex sentence forms.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Contentious (adj.): Controversial or disputed.

• Example: The issue of racism remains contentious in many societies.

1. Persist (verb): To continue steadily despite difficulties or obstacles.

• Example: Racism persists in subtle forms despite legal advancements.

1. Marginalized (adj.): Treated as insignificant or peripheral.

• Example: Marginalized communities continue to face discrimination.

1. Microaggressions (noun): Indirect, subtle, or unintentional discriminatory comments or actions.

• Example: Microaggressions can have a significant impact on marginalized individuals.

1. Systemic (adj.): Relating to or affecting an entire system or organization.

• Example: Systemic racism is deeply entrenched in many societies.

1. Equitable (adj.): Fair and impartial.

• Example: Achieving an equitable society requires ongoing effort.

1. Condemned (verb): Expressed strong disapproval of.

• Example: Overt racism is widely condemned in modern societies.

1. Pervasive (adj.): Spreading widely throughout an area or group of people.

• Example: Subtle forms of racism are pervasive in many societies.

1. Disparities (noun): Differences, typically ones that are considered unfair or unequal.

• Example: Studies reveal disparities in employment and education.

1. Inclusive (adj.): Including all groups or individuals.

• Example: Societies must strive to be more inclusive.

1. Nuanced (adj.): Characterized by subtle differences or shades of meaning.

• Example: A nuanced understanding of racism is essential.

1. Advocates (noun): People who support or promote a particular cause or idea.

• Example: Advocates of anti-racism highlight legal advancements.

1. Recourse (noun): The possibility of taking legal action or seeking help.

• Example: Anti-discrimination laws provide legal recourse.

1. Foster (verb): To encourage or promote the development of something.

• Example: Educational programs foster understanding and tolerance.

1. Entrench (verb): To establish something firmly and securely.

• Example: Systemic racism is deeply entrenched in many societies.

1. Comprehensive (adj.): Including all aspects or elements.

• Example: A comprehensive approach is needed to address racism.

1. Dialogue (noun): A discussion or conversation between two or more people.

• Example: Societal dialogue is essential for addressing racism.

1. Collective (adj.): Done by people acting as a group.

• Example: Collective effort is required to combat racism.

1. Perpetuate (verb): To make something continue indefinitely.

• Example: Microaggressions perpetuate a cycle of marginalization.

1. Initiatives (noun): Actions or programs intended to achieve a particular goal.

• Example: Educational initiatives promote tolerance and understanding.

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Lack of Specific Examples: Many students fail to provide specific examples to support their arguments, leading to a lower score in the Task Response criterion.

1. Inadequate Vocabulary: Using basic vocabulary and repeating words can limit the Lexical Resource score. Students should aim to use a wide range of vocabulary, including less common lexical items.

1. Poor Coherence and Cohesion: Students often struggle with organizing their ideas logically and using cohesive devices effectively. This can result in a lower score in the Coherence and Cohesion criterion.

1. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical errors can significantly impact the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score. Students should focus on using varied sentence structures and minimizing errors.

1. Insufficient Development of Ideas: Some students provide a brief overview of the topic without delving into the nuances. This can lead to a lower score in the Task Response criterion. Students should aim to develop their ideas thoroughly and provide a clear personal stance.

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