IELTS Writing Task 2: Success (Agree Disagree) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers
Related guides:
The Prompt
Some people believe that success in life comes from hard work and determination. Others believe that success is a matter of luck or opportunity. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Model Answers
Band 6.0 Answer
Some people say that success is because of hard work while others think it is luck. I think both are important. Hard work is important because if you work hard you can achieve your goals. For example, many successful people like Steve Jobs worked hard to be successful. Also, people who work hard can learn new skills and improve themselves. On the other hand, luck is also important. Sometimes people have opportunities that they did not work for. For example, someone might win the lottery and become rich. In my opinion, both hard work and luck are important for success. You need to work hard to take advantage of opportunities when they come.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): Presents a position but with some irrelevant points. The arguments are supported but not fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized but with some repetition and lack of clear progression.
- Lexical Resource (LR): Uses some less common vocabulary but with some errors in word choice and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with frequent grammatical errors.
Band 7.0 Answer
The notion of success has long been debated, with some attributing it to diligence and perseverance, while others credit fortune and chance. I firmly believe that success is predominantly a result of hard work, although opportunity plays a secondary role. Proponents of hard work argue that consistent effort leads to skill development and goal achievement. For instance, renowned scientists like Albert Einstein dedicated years to research before making groundbreaking discoveries. Conversely, luck can indeed facilitate success, as seen in cases of sudden wealth or unexpected promotions. However, relying solely on luck is untenable, as it is unpredictable and fleeting. In conclusion, while luck may present opportunities, it is sustained effort that ultimately leads to success.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with relevant arguments and examples. The response is fully extended and supported.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and appropriate use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a range of vocabulary with some less common lexical items and some errors in collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with occasional grammatical errors.
Band 8.0 Answer
The dichotomy between hard work and luck as determinants of success is a contentious issue. I contend that success is largely attributable to perseverance and determination, with luck serving as a supplementary factor. Advocates of hard work posit that consistent effort fosters skill acquisition and personal growth, enabling individuals to overcome obstacles and achieve their goals. For example, J.K. Rowling's relentless dedication to writing ultimately led to the creation of the Harry Potter series, despite initial rejections. Conversely, luck can indeed pave the way for success, as evidenced by sudden windfalls or fortuitous encounters. However, success predicated solely on luck is ephemeral and unsustainable. In conclusion, while luck may present opportunities, it is the relentless pursuit of goals that ensures enduring success.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended, and supported arguments. The response is fully extended and supported with specific examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and appropriate use of cohesive devices. Paragraphing is effective.
- Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a range of vocabulary with less common lexical items and some sophisticated collocations. Errors are rare.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with occasional grammatical errors. Sentence formation is varied and effective.
Band 9.0 Answer
The debate surrounding the determinants of success, whether it be the product of unwavering diligence or serendipitous fortune, is a nuanced one. I posit that success is predominantly the result of sustained effort, with luck playing a peripheral role. Proponents of hard work argue that consistent endeavor fosters resilience, expertise, and the ability to capitalize on opportunities. For instance, the meteoric rise of Elon Musk's SpaceX is a testament to his relentless pursuit of innovation and perseverance in the face of adversity. Conversely, luck can indeed catalyze success, as seen in instances of sudden fame or unexpected career advancements. However, success predicated solely on luck is often fleeting and lacks the foundation for long-term achievement. In conclusion, while luck may present opportunities, it is the relentless pursuit of excellence that ensures sustained success.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with relevant, extended, and supported arguments. The response is fully extended and supported with specific, pertinent examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and appropriate use of cohesive devices. Paragraphing is effective and varied.
- Lexical Resource (LR): Uses a wide range of vocabulary with less common lexical items and sophisticated collocations. Errors are rare and do not impede communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with minimal grammatical errors. Sentence formation is varied and effective.
Vocabulary Highlights
- Diligence: Careful and persistent work or effort. Example: Her diligence in studying paid off when she graduated at the top of her class.
- Perseverance: Steady persistence in a course of action, a purpose, or a state, despite obstacles, difficulties, or discouragement. Example: His perseverance in training helped him win the marathon.
- Serendipitous: Occurring or discovered by chance in a happy or beneficial way. Example: The serendipitous meeting led to a lifelong friendship.
- Relentless: Continuing without pause or surcease. Example: The relentless pursuit of his goals led to his eventual success.
- Fortuitous: Happening by chance rather than intention; lucky. Example: A fortuitous encounter with a renowned scientist changed the course of her career.
- Ephemeral: Lasting for a very short time. Example: The ephemeral nature of fame can be both exhilarating and daunting.
- Resilience: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness. Example: Her resilience in the face of adversity inspired everyone around her.
- Expertise: Expert skill or knowledge in a particular field. Example: His expertise in computer science made him an invaluable asset to the team.
- Capitalize: To take advantage of; utilize. Example: She knew how to capitalize on every opportunity that came her way.
- Catalyze: Cause or accelerate (a reaction or event). Example: The new policy catalyzed a significant change in the company's culture.
- Meteoric: Rapidly rising or advancing. Example: His meteoric rise to fame took everyone by surprise.
- Innovation: The introduction of new ideas, methods, or devices. Example: Continuous innovation is key to staying ahead in the tech industry.
- Adversity: A difficult or unfavorable situation or event. Example: She faced numerous adversities but never lost hope.
- Predicated: Based on or conditioned by. Example: Success is often predicated on a combination of hard work and opportunity.
- Sustained: Continuing for an extended period or maintained at a certain rate or level. Example: Sustained effort is essential for long-term success.
Common Mistakes
- Lack of Clear Position: Failing to clearly state your opinion on the topic. Always present a clear stance in your introduction.
- Inadequate Support: Providing weak or irrelevant examples to support your arguments. Use specific, pertinent examples to strengthen your points.
- Poor Organization: Disorganized paragraphs and ideas. Ensure your essay is well-structured with clear paragraphing.
- Vocabulary Errors: Using incorrect or inappropriate vocabulary. Expand your vocabulary and use it accurately.
- Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes that impede communication. Practice grammar to minimize errors.
Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol
Practice makes perfect. Get your own IELTS Writing Task 2 responses scored by AI on English AIdol and receive detailed feedback to improve your score.
