IELTS Writing Task 2: Same-sex Marriage Discussion - Band 6-9 Samples

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The Prompt

Paraphrased Prompt: Many societies have debated whether same-sex marriage should be legalized. Discuss both sides of this argument and give your own opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (4.0): Presents a position but with limited development and some irrelevant points.
• Coherence and Cohesion (5.0): Ideas are logically organized but with some unclear connections.
• Lexical Resource (5.0): Uses some appropriate vocabulary but with noticeable errors and limited range.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (5.5): Has frequent errors but meaning is usually clear.

Answer:

Many countries are talking about same-sex marriage. Some people say it should be legal, but others disagree. I think both sides have good points.

On one hand, same-sex marriage is good because it gives equal rights. If two people love each other, they should be able to marry. Also, it can make same-sex couples happier. Studies show that married people are happier than single people.

On the other hand, some people think it is bad for society. They believe marriage should be between a man and a woman. Also, they say it goes against their religion. Many religions teach that marriage is only for opposite-sex couples.

In my opinion, same-sex marriage should be legal. It is about love and rights, not religion. Countries like Canada and the Netherlands have legalized it, and it works well there.

Band 7.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (5.5): Presents a clear position with some balanced discussion but limited depth.
• Coherence and Cohesion (6.0): Ideas are logically organized with some effective linking.
• Lexical Resource (6.0): Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary with some less precise choices.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (6.5): Has some complex structures but also some errors.

Answer:

The issue of same-sex marriage has become increasingly prominent in recent years. This phenomenon has sparked considerable debate, with compelling arguments on both sides. Personally, I believe that same-sex marriage should be legalized.

Those who oppose same-sex marriage often cite religious beliefs and traditional values. They argue that marriage has always been between a man and a woman, and changing this definition could undermine the institution of marriage. Additionally, some people believe that legalizing same-sex marriage could negatively impact children raised in such families.

However, proponents of same-sex marriage highlight the importance of equal rights. They contend that love and commitment, rather than gender, should be the basis for marriage. Furthermore, numerous studies have shown that children raised by same-sex parents fare just as well as those raised by opposite-sex parents. Legalizing same-sex marriage would also promote social equality and reduce discrimination.

In conclusion, while there are valid concerns about the potential impact on traditional values, the benefits of legalizing same-sex marriage outweigh the drawbacks. It is a step towards a more inclusive and equitable society.

Band 8.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (7.0): Presents a clear position with balanced discussion and some nuanced points.
• Coherence and Cohesion (7.0): Ideas are logically organized with effective linking and some sophisticated referencing.
• Lexical Resource (7.5): Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items and few errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (7.5): Uses a mix of simple and complex structures with some errors but generally good control.

Answer:

The legalization of same-sex marriage has emerged as a contentious issue in many societies, generating vigorous debate. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting a personal stance.

Opponents of same-sex marriage often argue from a religious or cultural standpoint. They maintain that marriage, as a sacrament, should be reserved for heterosexual couples, citing centuries of tradition. Moreover, they express concern that legalizing same-sex marriage could dilute the sanctity of marriage and potentially impact family structures. In some societies, this viewpoint is deeply entrenched, making the debate particularly sensitive.

Conversely, advocates for same-sex marriage emphasize principles of equality and human rights. They posit that denying same-sex couples the right to marry constitutes discrimination. Empirical evidence suggests that children raised by same-sex parents develop just as successfully as those raised by opposite-sex parents, challenging the notion that traditional family structures are superior. Additionally, legal recognition of same-sex marriages could provide practical benefits, such as inheritance rights and access to healthcare.

In my view, the arguments in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage are more compelling. While respecting the beliefs of those who oppose it, I believe that the principles of equality and individual liberty should prevail. Societies have evolved to accommodate diverse family structures, and legal recognition of same-sex marriages reflects this progress.

Band 9.0 Answer

Scoring Breakdown:

• Task Response (9.0): Presents a clear position with balanced discussion and insightful, nuanced points.
• Coherence and Cohesion (9.0): Ideas are logically organized with effective linking and sophisticated referencing.
• Lexical Resource (9.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with precise, sophisticated lexical choices and no errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (9.0): Uses a wide range of complex structures with full flexibility and accuracy.

Answer:

The contentious issue of same-sex marriage has garnered significant attention in contemporary discourse. This phenomenon has elicited divergent viewpoints, which this essay will critically examine before advocating for a particular stance.

Antagonists of same-sex marriage frequently ground their arguments in religious doctrine and traditional values. They contend that marriage, as a cornerstone of society, should remain exclusively between a man and a woman. Furthermore, they posit that legalizing same-sex marriage could potentially undermine the institution of marriage and perpetuate societal decay. In jurisdictions where religious influence remains substantial, these arguments carry considerable weight.

Conversely, proponents of same-sex marriage underscore the principles of egalitarianism and human rights. They assert that the right to marry should not be predicated on sexual orientation but rather on mutual love and commitment. Empirical research has consistently demonstrated that children reared by same-sex parents exhibit developmental outcomes akin to those raised by heterosexual parents, thereby refuting the notion that traditional family structures are inherently superior. Additionally, the legal recognition of same-sex marriages confers tangible benefits, such as spousal benefits and legal protections.

In my estimation, the arguments in favor of legalizing same-sex marriage are more persuasive. While acknowledging the valid concerns of those who oppose it, I contend that the principles of equality and individual autonomy should take precedence. Contemporary societies have demonstrated a capacity for adaptation and inclusivity, and the legal recognition of same-sex marriages epitomizes this progressive trajectory.

Key Vocabulary

1. Legalize (verb): To make something legal or lawful.

• Example: Many countries have legalized same-sex marriage in recent years.

1. Equal rights (noun phrase): The rights that should be available to everyone, regardless of differences.

• Example: The fight for equal rights is a ongoing battle in many societies.

1. Discrimination (noun): Unfair treatment of a person or group based on prejudice.

• Example: Legalizing same-sex marriage helps to reduce discrimination against LGBTQ+ individuals.

1. Traditional values (noun phrase): Beliefs and principles that have been passed down through generations.

• Example: Some people argue that same-sex marriage goes against traditional values.

1. Empirical evidence (noun phrase): Information gained by means of observation, experiment, or experience.

• Example: Empirical evidence shows that children raised by same-sex parents fare just as well as those raised by opposite-sex parents.

1. Sanctity (noun): The quality or state of being holy or sacred.

• Example: Opponents of same-sex marriage argue that it undermines the sanctity of marriage.

1. Egalitarianism (noun): A belief in human equality, especially with respect to social, political, and economic rights.

• Example: Proponents of same-sex marriage often cite principles of egalitarianism.

1. Inheritance rights (noun phrase): Legal rights to receive property or assets from a deceased person.

• Example: Legal recognition of same-sex marriages provides inheritance rights to partners.

1. Dilute (verb): To make something weaker or less effective.

• Example: Some argue that legalizing same-sex marriage could dilute the institution of marriage.

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

• Example: The issue of same-sex marriage has gained significant attention in contemporary discourse.

1. Divergent (adjective): Differing in opinion or character.

• Example: The issue of same-sex marriage has elicited divergent viewpoints.

1. Epitomize (verb): To be a perfect example of.

• Example: The legal recognition of same-sex marriages epitomizes progressive societal values.

1. Undermine (verb): To weaken or cause to become less effective.

• Example: Some believe that same-sex marriage could undermine traditional family structures.

1. Predicated (verb): Based on or dependent on.

• Example: The right to marry should not be predicated on sexual orientation.

1. Reared (verb): To bring up or raise a child.

• Example: Children reared by same-sex parents exhibit developmental outcomes akin to those raised by heterosexual parents.

Common Mistakes

1. Overgeneralizing: Making sweeping statements without sufficient evidence or support.
2. Ignoring Counterarguments: Failing to acknowledge and address opposing viewpoints.
3. Lack of Clarity: Presenting ideas in a confusing or unclear manner.
4. Inadequate Vocabulary: Using limited or inappropriate vocabulary, which can hinder effective communication.
5. Grammatical Errors: Making frequent grammatical mistakes that obscure meaning or detract from the overall quality of the essay.

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