IELTS Writing Task 2: Sugar Consumption (Advantages/Disadvantages) - Band 6/7/8/9 Sample Answers
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The Prompt
Many people consume more sugar than medical experts recommend. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend?
Band 9 Model Answer
Word count: 268 Lexical Resource: 9.0 - Uses sophisticated vocabulary with pinpoint accuracy Grammatical Range: 9.0 - Employs complex sentence structures and varied conjunctions Task Response: 9.0 - Presents a clear position with comprehensive coverage of both sides Coherence & Cohesion: 9.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively to create a logical flow
The increasing sugar consumption in modern societies has sparked considerable debate regarding its health implications. While this trend offers certain benefits, the disadvantages appear more pronounced and concerning.
One significant advantage of sugar consumption is its role as an instant energy source. Many athletes and workers rely on sugary snacks to maintain their stamina throughout the day. Moreover, sugar acts as a preservative in various foods, extending their shelf life and reducing food waste. For example, jams and candies can last for years due to their high sugar content.
However, the disadvantages of excessive sugar intake far outweigh these benefits. Primarily, it contributes to the global obesity epidemic, with 60% of test-takers in ETS 2026 studies citing this as a major concern. The World Health Organization reports that obesity-related diseases cost governments billions annually. Additionally, sugar consumption leads to dental problems such as cavities and gum disease, placing a burden on healthcare systems. Furthermore, it can cause mood swings and energy crashes, negatively impacting productivity.
In conclusion, while sugar consumption has some advantages, the severe health consequences make it a trend worth curbing. Governments and individuals should work together to promote healthier alternatives and reduce sugar intake.
Band 8 Model Answer
Word count: 250 Lexical Resource: 8.0 - Uses less varied vocabulary with some less precise word choices Grammatical Range: 8.0 - Contains fewer complex structures and some less sophisticated conjunctions Task Response: 8.0 - Covers both sides but with less depth and some less relevant points Coherence & Cohesion: 8.0 - Uses cohesive devices but with some less natural transitions
The trend of consuming more sugar than recommended has both positive and negative aspects that need to be considered.
On the positive side, sugar provides quick energy for people who need it urgently. Students preparing for exams and workers with long hours often rely on sugary drinks to stay awake and focused. Additionally, sugar enhances the taste of many foods, making them more enjoyable to eat. For instance, desserts like cakes and cookies are popular worldwide due to their sweetness.
On the other hand, eating too much sugar can lead to serious health problems. It is strongly linked to obesity, which in turn can cause other issues like diabetes and heart disease. According to Cambridge Assessment English, 70% of IELTS test-takers in 2026 identified this as a critical concern. Furthermore, excessive sugar intake can damage teeth and cause other dental issues. Lastly, it can lead to addiction, making it difficult for people to control their intake.
In summary, while sugar consumption has some benefits, the health risks are significant and should not be ignored. Both individuals and policymakers need to take action to address this issue.
Band 7 Model Answer
Word count: 230 Lexical Resource: 7.0 - Uses some less precise vocabulary and occasional word choice errors Grammatical Range: 7.0 - Contains some errors in complex structures and limited conjunction variety Task Response: 7.0 - Covers both sides but with some less relevant points and less depth Coherence & Cohesion: 7.0 - Uses cohesive devices but with some awkward transitions
Many people today eat more sugar than is good for them, and this has both good and bad effects.
One good thing about sugar is that it gives people energy quickly. When someone is tired, eating something sweet can help them feel better. Also, sugar makes food taste better, so people enjoy eating more. For example, many children like to eat candy and ice cream.
However, there are also bad effects of eating too much sugar. It can make people fat, and this can cause other health problems. Moreover, sugar is bad for teeth, and many people have cavities because of it. Additionally, eating too much sugar can make people feel sick and tired.
In my opinion, the bad effects of sugar are more important than the good effects. People should try to eat less sugar and choose healthier foods instead.
Band 6 Model Answer
Word count: 200 Lexical Resource: 6.0 - Uses limited vocabulary with frequent word choice errors Grammatical Range: 6.0 - Contains frequent errors in complex structures and limited conjunctions Task Response: 6.0 - Covers both sides but with very basic points and some irrelevant information Coherence & Cohesion: 6.0 - Uses some cohesive devices but with frequent awkward transitions
Nowadays, people eat a lot of sugar, and this has some good and bad things.
First, sugar is good because it gives energy. When people are working or studying, they can eat sugar to feel better. Also, sugar makes food sweet, and many people like sweet food. For example, many people like to drink soda because it is sweet.
But, sugar is also bad. It can make people fat, and this is not good for health. Also, sugar can make teeth have problems. Many people have cavities because of sugar. Moreover, eating too much sugar can make people feel not good.
I think that the bad things about sugar are more important than the good things. People should not eat a lot of sugar. They should eat healthy food instead.
Vocabulary Highlights
Advantages:
- Energy source: Sugar provides quick energy for athletes and workers
- Preservative: Sugar extends food shelf life (e.g., jams, candies)
- Taste enhancer: Sugar improves food flavor (e.g., desserts, sodas)
Disadvantages:
- Obesity: Excessive sugar intake contributes to weight gain
- Dental problems: Sugar causes cavities and gum disease
- Health issues: Sugar is linked to diabetes and heart disease
- Addiction: Excessive sugar can lead to loss of control
Key vocabulary:
- Sparked considerable debate: Generated significant discussion
- Pinpoint accuracy: Exact precision
- Preservative: Substance that prolongs freshness
- Shelf life: Duration food remains usable
- Obesity epidemic: Widespread occurrence of obesity
- Mood swings: Rapid changes in emotion
- Pinpoint accuracy: Precise correctness
- Coherence & Cohesion: Logical flow and organization
- Pinpoint accuracy: Precise correctness
- Task Response: Completeness of addressing the prompt
Common Mistakes Students Make
- Overgeneralizing: Making broad statements without specific examples (e.g., 'Sugar is bad' without explaining why)
- Ignoring the task: Focusing only on advantages or disadvantages, not both
- Weak vocabulary: Using simple or repetitive words instead of varied, precise vocabulary (e.g., always using 'good' instead of 'beneficial', 'advantageous')
- Poor organization: Failing to use paragraphs or cohesive devices effectively
- Grammatical errors: Making frequent mistakes in complex sentence structures
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