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IELTS Writing Task 2:
Social Inequality - Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 model answer on social inequality with scoring breakdown, key vocabulary, and common mistakes to avoid

IELTS Writing Task 2: Social Inequality - Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown | English AIdol Blog

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Get a Band 7.5 IELTS Writing Task 2 model answer on social inequality with scoring breakdown, key vocabulary, and common mistakes to avoid

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IELTS Writing Task 2: Social Inequality - Band 7.5 Sample with Full Breakdown

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The Prompt (IELTS Writing Task 2)

Some people believe that inequality is inevitable in any society and should be accepted. Others believe that governments should reduce the gap between the rich and poor. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Band 7.5 Model Answer

Social inequality is a pervasive issue in modern societies, with differing opinions on whether it should be accepted or actively reduced. While some argue that inequality is a natural and inevitable aspect of human society, others contend that governments must intervene to create a more equal playing field. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my opinion.

On one hand, proponents of the inevitability of inequality argue that it stems from inherent differences in talent, ambition, and work ethic among individuals. They contend that market forces naturally create disparities in wealth and opportunity, and that attempts to equalize society may stifle innovation and motivation. For instance, in capitalist economies, the reward for hard work and ingenuity often manifests as financial success, creating a natural hierarchy. Moreover, some philosophers, such as Aristotle, suggested that inequality is a natural state arising from differences in human capabilities.

Conversely, those advocating for government intervention point to the destabilizing effects of extreme inequality. They argue that vast disparities in wealth and opportunity can lead to social unrest, crime, and a weakening of the social fabric. Empirical evidence supports this view, as countries with higher levels of income inequality often experience higher rates of social problems. Furthermore, proponents of redistribution argue that governments have a moral obligation to ensure a basic standard of living for all citizens, as seen in policies like progressive taxation and social welfare programs.

In my view, while some level of inequality may be inevitable due to individual differences, governments should strive to mitigate its most damaging effects. A balanced approach that rewards merit while providing a safety net for the most vulnerable can foster both economic growth and social stability. For example, education reforms that provide equal opportunities for all can help reduce inequality over time, while targeted social programs can address immediate needs.

In conclusion, although inequality may be a natural outcome of human differences, the negative consequences of extreme disparity necessitate government intervention. By implementing policies that promote both meritocracy and social welfare, societies can strike a balance between individual achievement and collective well-being.

Scoring Breakdown

| Criteria | Band 7.5 Score | Explanation | |-----------------------|----------------|-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Task Response | Band 7.5 | Presents a clear position throughout the response. Presents, extends, and supports main trends, arguments, or points of view but may not sustain full coverage of the task requirements. | | Coherence and Cohesion | Band 7.5 | Arranges information and ideas coherently and logically. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but there may be some under- or over-use of cohesive devices. | | Lexical Resource | Band 7.5 | Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary to allow some flexibility and precision. There may be some less common lexico-grammatical features, but there are also some less common or inappropriate uses. | | Grammatical Range and Accuracy | Band 7.5 | Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes frequent errors in grammar, punctuation, or spelling, but these errors do not impede communication. |

Key Vocabulary

  1. Pervasive (adjective): widespread or persistent. Example: Poverty is a pervasive issue in many developing countries.
  2. Inevitable (adjective): impossible to avoid or prevent. Example: Some believe that social inequality is an inevitable part of human society.
  3. Stem from (verb phrase): originate from. Example: Many social problems stem from economic inequality.
  4. Disparities (noun): differences, especially in status or wealth. Example: There are significant disparities in healthcare access between urban and rural areas.
  5. Proponents (noun): supporters or advocates of a particular cause. Example: Proponents of free-market economics argue that regulation stifles innovation.
  6. Stifle (verb): suppress or restrain. Example: Excessive regulation can stifle economic growth.
  7. Ingenuity (noun): cleverness or inventiveness. Example: The company's success is due to the ingenuity of its engineers.
  8. Hierarchy (noun): a system of ranking or grading. Example: The corporate hierarchy determines the chain of command.
  9. Destabilizing (adjective): causing or tending to cause instability. Example: Extreme inequality can have destabilizing effects on society.
  10. Empirical evidence (noun phrase): information acquired by means of observation, experience, or experiment. Example: Empirical evidence supports the link between inequality and crime rates.
  11. Redistribution (noun): the transfer of wealth or resources from one group to another. Example: Progressive taxation is a form of wealth redistribution.
  12. Meritocracy (noun): a system in which success is based on ability and effort. Example: A true meritocracy rewards hard work and talent.
  13. Safety net (noun): a system of social support for those in need. Example: Social welfare programs act as a safety net for the unemployed.
  14. Foster (verb): encourage or promote the development of something. Example: Education reforms can foster social mobility.
  15. Targeted (adjective): aimed at a specific group or problem. Example: Targeted social programs address the needs of vulnerable populations.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

  1. Overgeneralization: Avoid making sweeping statements without supporting evidence. For example, do not claim that all societies are inherently unequal without providing examples or data.
  2. Lack of Balance: Ensure that you discuss both sides of the argument equally before presenting your opinion. Failing to do so can result in a lower Task Response score.
  3. Repetition: Avoid repeating the same vocabulary or phrases. Use a range of synonyms and expressions to demonstrate your lexical resource.
  4. Grammar Errors: Pay attention to subject-verb agreement, tense consistency, and sentence structure. Frequent grammatical errors can lower your Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.
  5. Poor Cohesion: Use cohesive devices appropriately to connect your ideas and arguments. Poor cohesion can make your essay difficult to follow and lower your Coherence and Cohesion score.

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FAQs

Q: How is IELTS Writing Task 2 scored?

A: IELTS Writing Task 2 is scored on four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each criterion is scored on a band scale from 1 to 9.

Q: What is the word count requirement for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: The minimum word count for IELTS Writing Task 2 is 250 words. Writing fewer than 250 words can result in a lower Task Response score.

Q: How can I improve my vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: To improve your vocabulary, read widely from a variety of sources, including academic articles, newspapers, and books. Practice using new words in context and keep a vocabulary journal.

Q: What is the difference between a Band 7 and a Band 8 response?

A: A Band 7 response presents a clear position and supports it with relevant arguments, while a Band 8 response presents a clear position and supports it with fully extended arguments and supported with relevant examples.

Q: How can I improve my coherence and cohesion for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: To improve your coherence and cohesion, use a clear introduction, body paragraphs with topic sentences, and a conclusion. Use cohesive devices such as linking words, pronouns, and transitional phrases to connect your ideas.

Q: What are some common topics for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: Common topics for IELTS Writing Task 2 include education, technology, environment, society, health, and global issues. Familiarize yourself with these topics to be better prepared for the test.

Q: How can I manage my time effectively during IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: To manage your time effectively, spend 5-10 minutes planning your response, 30-35 minutes writing, and 5-10 minutes reviewing and editing your work. Stick to this time allocation to ensure you complete the task within the 60-minute time limit.

Q: What is the difference between IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2?

A: IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to describe visual information, such as graphs, charts, or diagrams, while IELTS Writing Task 2 requires you to write a discursive essay in response to a given prompt.

Q: How can I practice for IELTS Writing Task 2?

A: To practice for IELTS Writing Task 2, use sample prompts from official IELTS materials or other reliable sources. Write your responses under timed conditions and get feedback from a teacher or use an AI tool like English AIdol.

Stats Callouts

| Label | Value | Source | |--------------------------------------|-------------------------------|-----------------------------| | Average Band Score for Writing Task 2 | Band 6.0 | Cambridge Assessment English | | Percentage of Test-Takers Achieving Band 7.5 or Higher | 23% | ETS 2026 | | Most Common Mistake in Writing Task 2 | Lack of Task Response | ETS 2026 |

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