IELTS Writing Task 2: Same Sex Marriage (Two Part Question) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers
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The Prompt
Some people believe that same-sex marriage is a fundamental human right, while others argue that it undermines traditional family values. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Model Answers
Band 6.0 Answer
The issue of same-sex marriage is controversial. Some people think it is a human right, while others disagree.
On one hand, supporters argue that same-sex marriage is a human right. They say that everyone should have the right to marry who they love. Also, it can make gay people feel more accepted in society. For example, in countries where same-sex marriage is legal, LGBTQ+ people report feeling happier.
On the other hand, opponents believe same-sex marriage is bad for society. They think it goes against traditional values. For instance, some religions teach that marriage should be between a man and a woman. Additionally, they worry that it might affect how children are raised.
In my opinion, same-sex marriage should be legal. It is unfair to deny people the right to marry based on their sexual orientation. Moreover, love is love, and the law should protect all kinds of love.
Band 7.0 Answer
The debate surrounding same-sex marriage is multifaceted, with proponents advocating for equality and detractors citing traditional values.
Those in favor of same-sex marriage contend that it is a fundamental human right. They argue that love and commitment should not be constrained by sexual orientation. Furthermore, legalizing same-sex marriage can foster a more inclusive society, reducing discrimination and promoting acceptance. For instance, countries like Canada and the Netherlands have seen positive social impacts since legalizing same-sex marriage.
Conversely, opponents posit that same-sex marriage undermines traditional family structures. They assert that marriage has historically been between a man and a woman, and altering this norm could have unforeseen consequences. Additionally, some religious groups view same-sex marriage as contrary to their beliefs, leading to potential conflicts between secular laws and religious freedoms.
I firmly believe that same-sex marriage should be legalized. Denying this right is a form of discrimination. Society should evolve to embrace diversity and ensure that all individuals have the same opportunities to form legally recognized families.
Band 8.0 Answer
The contentious issue of same-sex marriage elicits divergent viewpoints, with proponents emphasizing equality and opponents invoking tradition.
Advocates for same-sex marriage assert that it is an intrinsic human right. They posit that love and commitment are universal values that should not be contingent upon sexual orientation. Moreover, legal recognition of same-sex marriage can mitigate social stigma and foster a more equitable society. Empirical evidence from nations such as Sweden and Spain demonstrates that legalizing same-sex marriage has enhanced the well-being of LGBTQ+ individuals.
Conversely, detractors argue that same-sex marriage erodes traditional family values. They contend that marriage has been a cornerstone of societal stability, rooted in the union of a man and a woman. Furthermore, they express concerns about the potential impact on children raised in same-sex households, although research largely refutes these apprehensions.
I am unequivocal in my support for same-sex marriage. The denial of this right is a blatant form of discrimination. Society must progress towards inclusivity, ensuring that all individuals have the autonomy to form families without fear of persecution.
Band 9.0 Answer
The discourse surrounding same-sex marriage is a microcosm of the broader struggle between progressive ideals and traditional values.
Proponents of same-sex marriage articulate a compelling case for its recognition as a human right. They argue that the fundamental principles of love, commitment, and mutual respect should transcend sexual orientation. Legalizing same-sex marriage can catalyze societal acceptance, reducing discrimination and promoting equality. Data from countries like the United States and the United Kingdom reveal that the legalization of same-sex marriage has correlated with improved mental health outcomes for LGBTQ+ individuals.
Opponents, however, present a counterargument rooted in the preservation of traditional family structures. They assert that marriage, as a societal institution, has historically been defined as a union between a man and a woman. Altering this definition, they contend, could have profound and potentially detrimental effects on societal cohesion. Additionally, they cite religious beliefs that view same-sex marriage as antithetical to their doctrines.
I am resolute in my advocacy for the legal recognition of same-sex marriage. The denial of this right is a manifest injustice. Society must evolve to embrace diversity, ensuring that all individuals have the opportunity to form families without the specter of discrimination. The legalization of same-sex marriage is not merely a step towards equality but a testament to the progress of human rights.
Scoring Breakdown
Band 6.0 Answer
Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a clear position but lacks depth in argumentation. Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition and simplistic transitions. Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses a mix of appropriate and limited vocabulary. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Contains frequent grammatical errors and simple sentence structures.
Band 7.0 Answer
Task Response (TR): 6.5 - Presents a clear position with some development of arguments. Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Ideas are logically organized with effective use of cohesive devices. Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a range of vocabulary appropriately. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Contains some grammatical errors but generally accurate.
Band 8.0 Answer
Task Response (TR): 7.5 - Presents a clear position with well-developed arguments and relevant examples. Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Ideas are logically organized with effective use of cohesive devices and complex sentences. Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary appropriately and precisely. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Contains some grammatical errors but generally accurate with complex sentence structures.
Band 9.0 Answer
Task Response (TR): 8.5 - Presents a clear position with thoroughly developed arguments and relevant examples. Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Ideas are logically organized with effective use of cohesive devices and complex sentences. Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary appropriately and precisely, with sophisticated collocations. Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Contains minimal grammatical errors with complex and varied sentence structures.
Vocabulary Highlights
- Controversial (adjective): causing or likely to cause controversy; debatable.
- Example: The issue of same-sex marriage is highly controversial.
- Proponent (noun): a person who advocates for a particular cause or belief.
- Example: Proponents of same-sex marriage argue for equality.
- Detractor (noun): a person who disparages or belittles someone or something.
- Example: Detractors of same-sex marriage cite traditional values.
- Intrinsic (adjective): belonging naturally; essential.
- Example: Same-sex marriage is an intrinsic human right.
- Mitigate (verb): to make less severe, serious, or painful.
- Example: Legalizing same-sex marriage can mitigate social stigma.
- Equitable (adjective): fair and impartial.
- Example: Society should strive for equitable treatment of all individuals.
- Manifest (adjective): clear or obvious to the eye or mind.
- Example: The denial of same-sex marriage is a manifest injustice.
- Catalyze (verb): to cause or accelerate a reaction.
- Example: Legalizing same-sex marriage can catalyze societal acceptance.
- Antithetical (adjective): being in direct and irreconcilable opposition.
- Example: Some religious doctrines view same-sex marriage as antithetical to their beliefs.
- Resolute (adjective): admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering.
- Example: I am resolute in my advocacy for same-sex marriage.
- Manifest (adjective): clear or obvious to the eye or mind.
- Example: The denial of same-sex marriage is a manifest injustice.
- Catalyze (verb): to cause or accelerate a reaction.
- Example: Legalizing same-sex marriage can catalyze societal acceptance.
- Antithetical (adjective): being in direct and irreconcilable opposition.
- Example: Some religious doctrines view same-sex marriage as antithetical to their beliefs.
- Resolute (adjective): admirably purposeful, determined, and unwavering.
- Example: I am resolute in my advocacy for same-sex marriage.
- Microcosm (noun): a small system having the characteristics of a larger one.
- Example: The discourse surrounding same-sex marriage is a microcosm of the broader struggle between progressive ideals and traditional values.
Common Mistakes
- Lack of Clear Position: Many students fail to clearly state their opinion, leading to a lower Task Response score.
- Repetition: Repeating the same points or vocabulary can make the essay seem less coherent.
- Inadequate Examples: Using vague or irrelevant examples weakens the argument.
- Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes can lower the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.
- Poor Vocabulary Choices: Using limited or inappropriate vocabulary can affect the Lexical Resource score.
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