IELTS Writing Task 2: Same Sex Marriage Advantages Disadvantages - Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Paraphrased IELTS Writing Task 2 Prompt:

Some people believe that same-sex marriage should be legalized, while others argue that it should not. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with limited development
• Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition
• Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Attempts varied vocabulary but with some errors
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Makes frequent grammatical errors

Answer:

Same-sex marriage is a big topic. Some people think it should be legal. Others think it should not. I think both sides have good points.

First, supporters say same-sex marriage is about love. They say people should be able to marry who they love. Also, they say it is fair. If straight people can marry, why can't gay people? This is a good point. Love is important, and fairness is important too.

But opponents say marriage is traditional. They say it is between a man and a woman. They think changing this will hurt society. Also, they say it is about religion. Many religions do not support same-sex marriage. This is also a good point. Tradition and religion are important to many people.

I think both sides have good points. But I think love is more important. So, I think same-sex marriage should be legal. But I understand why some people disagree.

Band 7.0 Answer

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with some development
• Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Ideas are logically organized with clear progression
• Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Makes some grammatical errors but maintains clarity

Answer:

The issue of same-sex marriage has sparked intense debate worldwide. While proponents advocate for its legalization, opponents resist this change. Both perspectives merit consideration, and I lean towards supporting same-sex marriage.

On one hand, those in favor of same-sex marriage argue that it promotes equality. They contend that love should be the foundation of marriage, not gender. Additionally, legalizing same-sex marriage can provide legal protections and benefits to same-sex couples, such as inheritance rights and hospital visitation. These are compelling points that highlight the practical advantages of legal recognition.

On the other hand, opponents often cite religious beliefs and traditional values. They argue that marriage has traditionally been between a man and a woman, and changing this definition could undermine the institution of marriage. Furthermore, they express concerns about the potential impact on children raised in same-sex households. While these arguments are rooted in deeply held beliefs, they do not necessarily outweigh the benefits of legalizing same-sex marriage.

In conclusion, while I acknowledge the validity of both sides, I believe that the advantages of legalizing same-sex marriage outweigh the disadvantages. It is a step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Band 8.0 Answer

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough development
• Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of appropriate vocabulary
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with good control of grammar

Answer:

The contentious issue of same-sex marriage has garnered significant attention in recent years. While some advocate for its legalization, others vehemently oppose it. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting a personal stance.

Proponents of same-sex marriage argue that it is a matter of fundamental human rights. They contend that love and commitment, not gender, should be the criteria for marriage. Legalizing same-sex marriage would grant couples equal rights and protections under the law, including tax benefits, inheritance rights, and healthcare decision-making authority. Moreover, it would send a powerful message of acceptance and inclusivity, fostering a more tolerant society. These points are well-founded and highlight the moral and practical benefits of legal recognition.

Conversely, opponents often cite religious doctrines and traditional values. They argue that marriage has been traditionally defined as a union between a man and a woman, and altering this definition could erode the institution of marriage. Additionally, they express concerns about the potential impact on children raised in same-sex households, although research has consistently shown that the well-being of children is more closely tied to the quality of their upbringing than the sexual orientation of their parents. While these arguments are rooted in deeply held beliefs, they do not hold up to scrutiny when weighed against the benefits of legalizing same-sex marriage.

In conclusion, while I acknowledge the validity of both sides, I firmly believe that the advantages of legalizing same-sex marriage far outweigh the disadvantages. It is a step towards a more just and equitable society, and one that aligns with the principles of equality and human rights.

Band 9.0 Answer

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough, supported, and extended development
• Coherence & Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices
• Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of appropriate vocabulary with precision
• Grammatical Range & Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with full flexibility and control

Answer:

The debate surrounding same-sex marriage has intensified in recent years, with proponents advocating for its legalization and opponents resisting this change. This essay will critically examine both perspectives before presenting a personal stance.

Those in favor of same-sex marriage argue that it is a matter of fundamental human rights. They contend that love and commitment, not gender, should be the criteria for marriage. Legalizing same-sex marriage would grant couples equal rights and protections under the law, including tax benefits, inheritance rights, and healthcare decision-making authority. Moreover, it would send a powerful message of acceptance and inclusivity, fostering a more tolerant society. These points are well-founded and highlight the moral and practical benefits of legal recognition.

Furthermore, research has consistently shown that the well-being of children is more closely tied to the quality of their upbringing than the sexual orientation of their parents. Studies have demonstrated that children raised in same-sex households fare just as well as those raised in heterosexual households, debunking the myth that same-sex marriage is harmful to children. This evidence further strengthens the argument in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage.

Conversely, opponents often cite religious doctrines and traditional values. They argue that marriage has been traditionally defined as a union between a man and a woman, and altering this definition could erode the institution of marriage. However, it is essential to recognize that the institution of marriage has evolved over time to reflect changing societal values. For instance, interracial marriage was once illegal in many countries, but it is now widely accepted. This historical context underscores the need to adapt marriage laws to reflect contemporary values of equality and inclusivity.

In conclusion, while I acknowledge the validity of both sides, I firmly believe that the advantages of legalizing same-sex marriage far outweigh the disadvantages. It is a step towards a more just and equitable society, and one that aligns with the principles of equality and human rights. Therefore, I strongly advocate for the legalization of same-sex marriage.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Contentious (adj.): Controversial, causing disagreement

• Example: The contentious issue of same-sex marriage has sparked intense debate.

1. Proponent (n.): A person who supports a particular idea or cause

• Example: Proponents of same-sex marriage argue that it is a matter of fundamental human rights.

1. Vehemently (adv.): In a forceful or intense manner

• Example: Others vehemently oppose it.

1. Fundamental (adj.): Basic, essential

• Example: They contend that love and commitment, not gender, should be the criteria for marriage.

1. Grant (v.): To give or allow something

• Example: Legalizing same-sex marriage would grant couples equal rights and protections under the law.

1. Inheritance (n.): The act of receiving property or money from someone who has died

• Example: Legalizing same-sex marriage would grant couples equal rights and protections under the law, including tax benefits, inheritance rights, and healthcare decision-making authority.

1. Erode (v.): To gradually destroy or diminish something

• Example: They argue that altering this definition could erode the institution of marriage.

1. Debunk (v.): To expose the falseness of something

• Example: Research has consistently shown that the well-being of children is more closely tied to the quality of their upbringing than the sexual orientation of their parents, debunking the myth that same-sex marriage is harmful to children.

1. Underscore (v.): To emphasize or highlight something

• Example: This historical context underscores the need to adapt marriage laws to reflect contemporary values of equality and inclusivity.

1. Advocate (v.): To support or recommend something publicly

• Example: Therefore, I strongly advocate for the legalization of same-sex marriage.

1. Equitable (adj.): Fair and just

• Example: It is a step towards a more just and equitable society.

1. Inclusivity (n.): The practice of including all people in a fair and respectful way

• Example: It would send a powerful message of acceptance and inclusivity, fostering a more tolerant society.

1. Tolerant (adj.): Showing willingness to allow the existence of opinions or behavior that one does not necessarily agree with

• Example: It would send a powerful message of acceptance and inclusivity, fostering a more tolerant society.

1. Contemporary (adj.): Belonging to or occurring in the present

• Example: This historical context underscores the need to adapt marriage laws to reflect contemporary values of equality and inclusivity.

1. Criteria (n.): A principle or standard by which something may be judged or decided

• Example: They contend that love and commitment, not gender, should be the criteria for marriage.

1. Fare (v.): To perform or behave in a particular way

• Example: Studies have demonstrated that children raised in same-sex households fare just as well as those raised in heterosexual households.

1. Alignment (n.): The act of positioning something in a straight line or adjusting it to a particular direction

• Example: It is a step towards a more just and equitable society, and one that aligns with the principles of equality and human rights.

1. Intensify (v.): To become or make something more intense

• Example: The debate surrounding same-sex marriage has intensified in recent years.

1. Resist (v.): To withstand the force or effect of something

• Example: While some advocate for its legalization, others resist this change.

1. Critically (adv.): In a careful and analytical manner

• Example: This essay will critically examine both perspectives before presenting a personal stance.

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Lack of Clear Position: Many students present both sides of the argument but fail to clearly state their own opinion. This can result in a lower Task Response score.

1. Repetition: Students often repeat the same ideas or vocabulary, which can negatively impact the Coherence and Cohesion score.

1. Inadequate Vocabulary: Using limited or inappropriate vocabulary can lower the Lexical Resource score. Students should aim to use a wide range of appropriate vocabulary.

1. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical errors can significantly impact the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score. Students should proofread their essays carefully.

1. Lack of Supporting Evidence: Students often present their arguments without providing sufficient supporting evidence. This can weaken their arguments and lower their overall score.

1. Poor Organization: Essays that are poorly organized can be difficult to follow and may receive a lower Coherence and Cohesion score. Students should ensure their essays are well-structured and easy to follow.

1. Overuse of Informal Language: Using informal language or slang can negatively impact the Lexical Resource score. Students should use formal, academic language in their essays.

1. Failure to Address the Task: Some students may go off-topic or fail to fully address the task. This can result in a lower Task Response score. Students should ensure they fully understand the task and address it accordingly.

1. Inadequate Length: Essays that are too short may not fully address the task and can receive a lower score. Students should aim to write at least 250 words for IELTS Writing Task 2.

1. Lack of Varied Sentence Structures: Using only simple sentence structures can lower the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score. Students should aim to use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures.

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