IELTS Writing Task 2: Traditional Medicine (Positive Negative) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers
Related guides:
Paraphrased Prompt: Many people argue that traditional medicine offers significant benefits while others believe its negative aspects outweigh the positives. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Model Answers with Scoring Breakdown
Band 6.0 Answer
Traditional medicine has been used for centuries, but whether its advantages outweigh the disadvantages is debatable. On one hand, traditional remedies are natural and often affordable. For example, herbal treatments like turmeric are commonly used for inflammation. Additionally, traditional medicine preserves cultural heritage, passing down knowledge through generations. However, these treatments may lack scientific validation. A study by Cambridge Assessment English found that 30% of traditional remedies have uncertain effectiveness. Moreover, some practices can be dangerous, such as bloodletting in ancient times. In my view, while traditional medicine has cultural value, modern medicine should be prioritized for safety and reliability.
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response (5.0): Presents both views but with limited development.
- Coherence/Cohesion (6.0): Ideas are logically organized but with some repetitive linking words.
- Lexical Resource (6.0): Uses some less common vocabulary but with occasional errors.
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy (6.0): Mostly correct sentences but frequent mistakes in complex structures.
Band 7.0 Answer
The debate surrounding traditional medicine's merits and drawbacks is multifaceted. Proponents argue that traditional healing methods are gentle on the body and accessible to many. For instance, acupuncture is widely used for pain relief and has gained recognition from the World Health Organization. Furthermore, traditional medicine often focuses on holistic healing, addressing the root cause of illnesses. Conversely, critics point out that these treatments can be inconsistent in effectiveness. A 2025 report by the British Medical Journal noted that 40% of traditional remedies show variable results. Additionally, some practitioners lack proper training, posing risks to patients. Personally, I believe traditional medicine can complement modern treatments but should not replace them.
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response (7.0): Clearly presents both views with relevant examples.
- Coherence/Cohesion (7.0): Logical progression of ideas with varied linking phrases.
- Lexical Resource (7.0): Uses a mix of common and less common vocabulary appropriately.
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy (7.0): Mostly error-free with some complex sentence structures.
Band 8.0 Answer
Traditional medicine, with its historical roots, presents both advantages and disadvantages that warrant examination. Advocates highlight its cost-effectiveness and minimal side effects compared to synthetic drugs. For example, Ayurveda, a traditional Indian system, uses natural ingredients like neem for various ailments. Additionally, traditional medicine aligns with preventive healthcare, emphasizing balance and wellness. However, skeptics argue that the lack of standardized regulation can lead to misdiagnosis. According to a 2026 study by the National Institutes of Health, 25% of traditional treatments lack rigorous clinical trials. Moreover, some practices, such as cupping, may cause harm if improperly administered. In my opinion, traditional medicine offers valuable insights but must be integrated with evidence-based practices for optimal healthcare outcomes.
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response (8.0): Presents a clear position with detailed support and relevant examples.
- Coherence/Cohesion (8.0): Ideas are logically connected with sophisticated linking devices.
- Lexical Resource (8.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary precisely and naturally.
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy (8.0): Mostly error-free with varied complex sentences.
Band 9.0 Answer
The discourse on traditional medicine's efficacy and potential risks is nuanced, requiring a balanced perspective. Proponents extol its cultural significance and the holistic approach to healing. For instance, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) has been practiced for over 2,000 years, with acupuncture recognized by the WHO for its efficacy in pain management. Furthermore, traditional remedies often have fewer adverse effects compared to pharmaceutical drugs. Conversely, detractors emphasize the absence of scientific rigor in many traditional practices. A comprehensive review by the Cochrane Collaboration in 2026 revealed that 35% of traditional treatments lack sufficient clinical evidence. Additionally, the unregulated nature of some practices can lead to misinformation and potential harm. In my view, traditional medicine should be respected for its cultural heritage and complementary benefits, but it must be subjected to the same scientific scrutiny as modern medicine to ensure safety and efficacy.
Scoring Breakdown:
- Task Response (9.0): Presents a clear, sustained, and supported position with relevant examples.
- Coherence/Cohesion (9.0): Ideas are logically connected with sophisticated linking devices and clear progression.
- Lexical Resource (9.0): Uses a wide range of vocabulary precisely and naturally, with rare errors.
- Grammatical Range/Accuracy (9.0): Mostly error-free with varied complex sentences and sophisticated structures.
Vocabulary Highlights
- Affordable (adj): Inexpensive; reasonably priced. Example: Herbal treatments are often more affordable than pharmaceutical drugs.
- Holistic (adj): Considering the whole of something rather than just its parts. Example: Traditional medicine often focuses on holistic healing.
- Validation (n): The process of confirming the truth or accuracy of something. Example: Some treatments lack scientific validation.
- Complement (v): To add to something in a way that enhances its value or effectiveness. Example: Traditional medicine can complement modern treatments.
- Reliability (n): The quality of being consistent and dependable. Example: Modern medicine is often prioritized for its reliability.
- Synthetic (adj): Relating to substances made artificially in laboratories. Example: Synthetic drugs can have more side effects.
- Consistent (adj): Acting or done in the same way over time, especially so as to be fair or accurate. Example: The effectiveness of traditional remedies can be inconsistent.
- Proponent (n): A person who supports a particular idea or plan. Example: Proponents argue that traditional medicine is gentle on the body.
- Skeptic (n): A person who doubts the truth or value of something. Example: Skeptics argue that traditional treatments lack scientific rigor.
- Holistic healing (n): An approach to medicine that considers the whole person, body, mind, and spirit. Example: Traditional medicine often emphasizes holistic healing.
- Misdiagnosis (n): The incorrect diagnosis of a medical condition. Example: Lack of regulation can lead to misdiagnosis.
- Preventive healthcare (n): Measures taken to prevent illness rather than treating it. Example: Traditional medicine aligns with preventive healthcare.
- Side effects (n): Secondary, typically adverse effects of a drug or medical treatment. Example: Traditional remedies often have fewer side effects.
- Rigorous (adj): Extremely thorough and careful. Example: Some practices lack rigorous clinical trials.
- Standardized (adj): Made to be the same in all important ways. Example: The lack of standardized regulation can be problematic.
- Cultural heritage (n): The full range of inherited traditions, monuments, objects, and culture of a community. Example: Traditional medicine preserves cultural heritage.
- Evidence-based (adj): Relating to or based on evidence, especially scientific evidence. Example: Practices must be integrated with evidence-based treatments.
- Nuanced (adj): Characterized by subtle differences or distinctions. Example: The discourse on traditional medicine is nuanced.
- Extol (v): To praise enthusiastically. Example: Proponents extol the benefits of traditional medicine.
- Detractor (n): A person who criticizes something or someone. Example: Detractors emphasize the lack of scientific rigor.
- Comprehensive (adj): Complete; including all or nearly all elements or aspects. Example: A comprehensive review revealed many treatments lack evidence.
- Scrutiny (n): Critical observation or examination. Example: Traditional practices must be subjected to scientific scrutiny.
- Efficacy (n): The ability to produce a desired or intended result. Example: The efficacy of traditional treatments is often debated.
- Adverse effects (n): Harmful or undesirable side effects. Example: Natural ingredients often have fewer adverse effects.
- Subjected to (v): To cause someone or something to undergo an action or treatment. Example: Traditional practices must be subjected to scientific scrutiny.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Lack of Specific Examples: Many students fail to provide concrete examples to support their arguments. Ensure you use real-world instances to strengthen your points.
- Overgeneralization: Avoid making sweeping statements without qualification. For example, instead of saying "Traditional medicine is always dangerous," say "Some traditional practices can be dangerous if not properly administered."
- Repetitive Linking Words: Using the same linking words repeatedly can make your writing monotonous. Vary your linking phrases to enhance coherence.
- Inconsistent Tense Usage: Maintain consistency in verb tenses throughout your essay. Shifting tenses unnecessarily can confuse the reader.
- Ignoring Counterarguments: Failing to acknowledge opposing views can weaken your argument. Always address counterarguments to present a balanced perspective.
Get Your Own Response Scored by AI on English AIdol
Practice makes perfect. Submit your own IELTS Writing Task 2 response to English AIdol's AI scoring system to get instant feedback and improve your skills.
