IELTS Writing Task 2: Same Sex Marriage – Band 6.0 Sample with Full Breakdown

Related guides:

• IELTS Writing Task 2: Climate Change Discussion Sample Band…
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Plastic Pollution (Advantages…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Deforestation Two Part Question Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Renewable Energy Agree Disagree Sample…
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Renewable Energy Two Part Question…

Full Prompt (Paraphrased)

> Some people argue that governments should legalize same-sex marriage, while others believe it should remain illegal. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 6.0 Sample Answer

This response meets the minimum requirements for a Band 6.0 but lacks depth and sophistication.

Some people think same-sex marriage should be legal, while others disagree. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

On one hand, supporters of same-sex marriage say it is about human rights. They believe everyone should have the right to marry who they love. Also, legalizing same sex marriage can make gay people feel accepted in society. Some countries have already legalized it, and life for gay people has gotten better.

On the other hand, opponents say marriage is between a man and a woman. They think same-sex marriage goes against traditional values. Some religious people believe God made marriage for heterosexual couples only. They worry that if same-sex marriage is legal, it will change the meaning of family.

In my opinion, same-sex marriage should be legal. I think love should not be restricted by gender. Many people around the world are gay, and they deserve the same rights as straight people. Countries that have legalized same-sex marriage have not had big problems. Gay people can just live normally and be happy.

Scoring Breakdown

| Criteria | Band Score | Explanation | |------------------|------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Task Response | 6.0 | Presents a clear position but explores views in a simplistic way with limited development. | | Coherence | 6.0 | Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition and underuse of cohesive devices. | | Lexical | 5.5 | Uses some less common vocabulary but with frequent errors and limited range. | | Grammar | 5.5 | Produces simple sentence forms with some complex structures attempted but with errors. |

Key Vocabulary Highlights

1. Legalize (verb) - to make something legal: The government decided to legalize same-sex marriage.
2. Discuss (verb) - to talk about something seriously: We need to discuss both views on this topic.
3. Supporters (noun) - people who support an idea: Supporters of same-sex marriage argue for equality.
4. Opponents (noun) - people who are against an idea: Opponents of same-sex marriage have different beliefs.
5. Human rights (noun) - basic rights that all people should have: Same-sex marriage is about human rights.
6. Traditional values (noun) - values based on long-standing customs: Some people believe same-sex marriage goes against traditional values.
7. Religious (adjective) - relating to religion: Some religious people oppose same-sex marriage.
8. Heterosexual (adjective) - relating to attraction between opposite genders: Marriage has traditionally been between heterosexual couples.
9. Deserve (verb) - to be worthy of something: Gay people deserve the same rights as straight people.
10. Accepted (adjective) - being welcomed or approved: Legalizing same-sex marriage can make gay people feel accepted.
11. Worry (verb) - to feel concerned: Opponents worry that same-sex marriage will change family values.
12. Meaning (noun) - significance or interpretation: They worry it will change the meaning of family.
13. Restricted (adjective) - limited: Love should not be restricted by gender.
14. Normally (adverb) - in a usual way: Gay people can just live normally and be happy.
15. Problems (noun) - issues or difficulties: Countries with same-sex marriage have not had big problems.

Common Mistakes Students Make on This Topic

1. Overgeneralizing - Making broad statements without specific examples or support.
2. Lack of Nuance - Failing to acknowledge different perspectives within each view.
3. Repetition - Repeating the same words or ideas without varying language.
4. Grammar Errors - Common errors include subject-verb agreement and article usage.
5. Limited Vocabulary - Using basic vocabulary and not attempting more complex or academic terms.

How to Improve Your Score

To move from a Band 6.0 to a higher band, focus on:

• Expanding your vocabulary - Use a wider range of words and phrases to express your ideas.
• Improving cohesion - Use more cohesive devices to connect your ideas smoothly.
• Developing your arguments - Provide more detailed examples and stronger reasoning to support your views.
• Practicing complex sentences - Work on constructing complex sentences accurately to improve your grammar score.

Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol

Practice with real-time feedback and improve your IELTS Writing score faster. Try our AI scoring tool today!