IELTS Writing Task 2: Success (Positive Negative) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

IELTS Writing Task 2 Prompt (Paraphrased from Cambridge IELTS 15 Test 1)

Some people believe that the positive effects of success are more important than the negative aspects. Others argue that the negative aspects are more significant. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Model Answer

Score Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Addresses the task but presents a superficial response.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Uses basic organizational features and connects ideas but with some repetition.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses some less common vocabulary but with some errors and inappropriacies.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Attempts complex sentences but with frequent errors.

Answer:

Success is good for people but can have bad sides. Some say positive is more important, others say negative. I think both are important.

The good things about success are many. First, it makes people happy. When people achieve goals, they feel proud. Second, success can give money. Money lets people buy things they need and want. Also, successful people often have good jobs with respect. This can help in society.

But success also has problems. One problem is stress. People who want success work too hard. This can make them sick. Another problem is that some people become too proud. They think they are better than others. This can hurt relationships. Also, success can make people want more. They never feel happy.

In my opinion, both good and bad things are important. But the good things are more important. If people can handle the bad things, success is very good. I think most people can do this.

Band 7.0 Model Answer

Score Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position throughout the response.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Arranges ideas logically with clear progression.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a mix of appropriate vocabulary with some less common items.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors.

Answer:

Success is a double-edged sword, bringing both benefits and drawbacks. While some argue that the positive aspects outweigh the negative, others contend that the negative consequences are more significant. I believe both perspectives have merit.

On one hand, success brings numerous advantages. Financially, success often translates to higher income, providing individuals with the means to improve their living standards. Professionally, success can lead to career advancement and greater job satisfaction. Socially, successful individuals often gain recognition and respect from their peers. Personally, achieving success can boost self-esteem and provide a sense of accomplishment.

However, success is not without its downsides. One notable drawback is the increased stress that often accompanies it. The pressure to maintain success can lead to burnout and health issues. Additionally, success can sometimes breed arrogance, leading to strained relationships and social isolation. Furthermore, the pursuit of success can consume a significant amount of time and energy, potentially neglecting other important aspects of life such as family and personal well-being.

In my view, while the positive aspects of success are indeed significant, it is crucial to acknowledge and manage the negative consequences. By doing so, individuals can fully enjoy the benefits of success without being overwhelmed by its drawbacks.

Band 8.0 Model Answer

Score Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a well-developed response with a clear position and relevant arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Uses a range of cohesive devices effectively.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with flexibility and precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Uses a variety of complex sentence forms with minimal errors.

Answer:

The debate surrounding the relative importance of the positive and negative aspects of success is a contentious one. While proponents of the former argue that the benefits far outweigh the drawbacks, critics contend that the adverse effects are more profound and long-lasting. I firmly believe that both perspectives merit consideration.

Proponents of the positive aspects of success highlight several compelling advantages. Economically, success often results in increased financial stability, enabling individuals to invest in their future and improve their quality of life. Professionally, it can open doors to new opportunities, career growth, and personal fulfillment. Moreover, success can enhance one's social standing, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment. Psychologically, achieving success can bolster self-confidence and provide a sense of purpose.

Conversely, the negative aspects of success are equally noteworthy. The relentless pursuit of success can lead to chronic stress and anxiety, taking a toll on both mental and physical health. Additionally, success can sometimes foster a sense of entitlement and hubris, leading to strained interpersonal relationships. Furthermore, the pressure to maintain success can result in a work-life imbalance, neglecting personal relationships and hobbies.

In my view, while the positive aspects of success are undeniably significant, it is imperative to acknowledge and mitigate the negative consequences. By adopting a balanced approach, individuals can harness the benefits of success while minimizing its drawbacks. This holistic perspective ensures that success is not only achieved but also sustained in a healthy and meaningful manner.

Band 9.0 Model Answer

Score Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a well-developed response with a clear position throughout and relevant, extended arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Uses a range of cohesive devices with precision and flexibility.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with full flexibility and precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of complex sentence forms with full flexibility and accuracy.

Answer:

The dichotomy between the positive and negative aspects of success has long been a subject of intense debate. While some contend that the advantages of success far outweigh its disadvantages, others posit that the detrimental effects are more profound and enduring. I assert that both viewpoints are valid, but the benefits of success ultimately hold greater significance.

Advocates of the positive aspects of success present a compelling case. Financially, success often translates to economic prosperity, enabling individuals to secure their future and enjoy a higher standard of living. Professionally, it can pave the way for career advancement, job satisfaction, and personal growth. Socially, success can enhance one's reputation, garnering respect and admiration from peers. Psychologically, achieving success can foster a sense of accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and motivation.

However, the negative aspects of success cannot be overlooked. The relentless pursuit of success can lead to chronic stress, anxiety, and even mental health issues. Additionally, success can sometimes engender arrogance and a sense of superiority, leading to social isolation and conflict. Furthermore, the pressure to maintain success can result in a skewed work-life balance, neglecting personal relationships and self-care.

In my opinion, while the negative aspects of success are indeed significant, the positive impacts are more profound and far-reaching. By adopting a mindful approach to success, individuals can capitalize on its benefits while effectively managing its drawbacks. This balanced perspective ensures that success is not only achieved but also sustained in a healthy and fulfilling manner. Ultimately, success should be viewed as a means to enhance one's life, rather than an end in itself.

Key Vocabulary

1. Double-edged sword (noun) - Something that has both positive and negative aspects.

• Example: The internet is a double-edged sword, offering both opportunities and risks.

1. Proponents (noun) - People who support or advocate for a particular idea or cause.

• Example: Proponents of renewable energy argue for its environmental benefits.

1. Hubris (noun) - Excessive pride and self-confidence.

• Example: His hubris led to his downfall.

1. Relentless (adjective) - Continuing without pause or rest.

• Example: The relentless pursuit of success can lead to burnout.

1. Profound (adjective) - Having deep meaning or significance.

• Example: The movie had a profound impact on the audience.

1. Enduring (adjective) - Lasting for a long time.

• Example: The enduring effects of the recession are still felt today.

1. Garnering (verb) - Gathering or collecting something, often praise or support.

• Example: The new product has been garnering positive reviews.

1. Engender (verb) - Cause or give rise to a situation or feeling.

• Example: The policy engendered a great deal of controversy.

1. Skewed (adjective) - Biased or distorted.

• Example: The skewed results of the survey were due to poor sampling.

1. Mindful (adjective) - Conscious or aware of something; attentive.

• Example: A mindful approach to work can reduce stress.

1. Capitalize (verb) - To take advantage of an opportunity.

• Example: She managed to capitalize on the situation and secure a promotion.

1. Mitigate (verb) - To make something less severe or serious.

• Example: The new regulations aim to mitigate the impact of pollution.

1. Holistic (adjective) - Considering the whole of something rather than just its parts.

• Example: A holistic approach to health includes diet, exercise, and mental well-being.

1. Prosperity (noun) - A successful, flourishing, or thriving condition.

• Example: The country's prosperity is built on a strong economy.

1. Adversity (noun) - A difficult or unpleasant situation.

• Example: She faced adversity with courage and determination.

1. Dichotomy (noun) - A division or contrast between two things.

• Example: The dichotomy between rich and poor is widening.

1. Compelling (adjective) - Strongly attractive or convincing.

• Example: The evidence presented a compelling case.

1. Fulfilment (noun) - The achievement of something desired, promised, or predicted.

• Example: Her job brings her a great sense of fulfilment.

1. Sustained (adjective) - Continued over a period of time.

• Example: Sustained effort is key to achieving long-term goals.

1. Far-reaching (adjective) - Extending or influencing a large area or many people.

• Example: The new law will have far-reaching implications.

Common Mistakes

1. Superficial Analysis: Students often provide a shallow discussion of the topic, failing to explore the nuances of both positive and negative aspects.

1. Lack of Examples: Many responses lack specific examples to support arguments, making the discussion less convincing.

1. Repetition: Some students repeat the same ideas in different words without adding new information or insights.

1. Poor Vocabulary Choices: Using inappropriate or overly complex vocabulary can detract from the clarity and coherence of the response.

1. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes can hinder understanding and lower the overall score.

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