IELTS Writing Task 2: Money And Happiness — Band 6/7/8/9 Samples

full prompt

Prompt: Some people believe that money can make us happy, while others argue that it cannot. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

model answers

Band 6.0 Sample

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but lacks development.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Ideas are logically organized but lack clear connections.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses a mix of appropriate and inaccurate vocabulary.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Contains frequent grammatical errors.

Answer:

Money can make people happy, but it is not the only thing that can. Some people think that having a lot of money can make them happy because they can buy things they want. For example, a rich person can buy a big house or a nice car. However, other people say that money cannot make you happy. They believe that happiness comes from other things like family and friends. For example, a person with little money but good friends can be happy.

In my opinion, money can help make people happy, but it is not the most important thing. I think that having enough money to live comfortably is important, but having good relationships with family and friends is more important. For example, a person with a lot of money but no friends can be unhappy.

Band 7.0 Sample

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with some development.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Ideas are logically organized with clear connections.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a range of vocabulary but with some inaccuracies.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Contains some grammatical errors but generally clear.

Answer:

The relationship between money and happiness has been a topic of debate for many years. Some people argue that money can buy happiness, while others believe that it cannot. This essay will discuss both views and provide a personal opinion.

On one hand, money can contribute to happiness. Having financial stability can reduce stress and provide opportunities for enjoyment. For example, a person with enough money can afford to travel, which can lead to new experiences and personal growth. Additionally, money can provide access to better healthcare and education, which can improve overall well-being. However, money alone cannot guarantee happiness. Research has shown that beyond a certain point, additional money does not significantly increase happiness. For instance, a study by Princeton University found that emotional well-being increases with income up to about $75,000 a year, but beyond that, the impact on happiness is minimal.

On the other hand, happiness can come from non-material sources. Strong relationships, personal achievements, and a sense of purpose can all contribute to happiness. For example, a person who volunteers their time to help others may feel a sense of fulfillment that money cannot buy. Similarly, pursuing hobbies and interests can bring joy and satisfaction. In my opinion, while money can contribute to happiness, it is not the only factor. A balanced life that includes financial stability, strong relationships, and personal fulfillment is likely to lead to the greatest happiness.

Band 8.0 Sample

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough development.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Ideas are logically organized with clear and varied connections.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some sophisticated examples.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Contains a few grammatical errors but generally accurate.

Answer:

The notion that money can buy happiness is a contentious one, with proponents and detractors offering compelling arguments. This essay will explore both perspectives and present a nuanced view on the matter.

Proponents of the idea that money can buy happiness argue that financial resources provide access to experiences and comforts that enhance well-being. For instance, money can enable individuals to pursue higher education, travel to exotic locations, and enjoy luxury goods, all of which can contribute to a sense of fulfillment. Furthermore, financial security can alleviate stress and anxiety, allowing people to focus on personal growth and relationships. However, it is essential to recognize that money alone cannot guarantee happiness. Research has shown that beyond a certain threshold, additional wealth does not significantly increase happiness. For example, a study conducted by the University of Cambridge found that while income does correlate with happiness up to a certain point, other factors such as social connections and personal achievements play a more significant role in long-term well-being.

Conversely, those who believe that money cannot buy happiness argue that true contentment comes from non-material sources. Strong social connections, personal achievements, and a sense of purpose are all critical components of happiness. For example, a person who volunteers their time to help others may experience a deep sense of fulfillment that money cannot replicate. Similarly, engaging in hobbies and interests can bring joy and satisfaction that transcend monetary value. In my opinion, while money can contribute to happiness, it is not the sole determinant. A balanced life that includes financial stability, meaningful relationships, and personal fulfillment is likely to lead to the greatest happiness.

Band 9.0 Sample

Score Breakdown:

• Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a clear, insightful position with thorough development.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Ideas are logically organized with clear and sophisticated connections.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with precise and sophisticated examples.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with minimal errors.

Answer:

The interplay between money and happiness is a complex and multifaceted issue that has been the subject of extensive research and debate. This essay will delve into both sides of the argument and offer a comprehensive perspective on the topic.

Those who advocate for the idea that money can buy happiness contend that financial resources provide access to experiences and comforts that enhance overall well-being. For instance, money can facilitate access to high-quality education, healthcare, and leisure activities, all of which can contribute to a sense of fulfillment. Furthermore, financial security can mitigate stress and anxiety, allowing individuals to focus on personal growth and relationships. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that money alone cannot guarantee happiness. Numerous studies have demonstrated that beyond a certain point, additional wealth does not significantly increase happiness. For example, a comprehensive study by the University of Warwick found that while income does correlate with happiness up to a certain threshold, other factors such as social connections and personal achievements play a more substantial role in long-term well-being.

Conversely, those who argue that money cannot buy happiness posit that true contentment stems from non-material sources. Strong social connections, personal achievements, and a sense of purpose are all integral components of happiness. For example, a person who dedicates their time to charitable activities may experience a profound sense of fulfillment that money cannot replicate. Similarly, engaging in creative pursuits and hobbies can bring joy and satisfaction that transcend monetary value. In my view, while money can contribute to happiness, it is not the sole determinant. A holistic approach that encompasses financial stability, meaningful relationships, and personal fulfillment is likely to lead to the greatest happiness.

vocabulary highlights

1. Contentious (adj.) - Controversial or disputed.

• Example: The relationship between money and happiness is a contentious issue.

1. Proponents (n.) - Supporters or advocates.

• Example: Proponents of the idea argue that money can buy happiness.

1. Allevate (v.) - To make something less severe or intense.

• Example: Financial security can alleviate stress and anxiety.

1. Fulfillment (n.) - A feeling of satisfaction or achievement.

• Example: Pursuing hobbies can bring a sense of fulfillment.

1. Transcend (v.) - To go beyond the usual limits.

• Example: The joy from hobbies can transcend monetary value.

1. Comprehensive (adj.) - Including all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.

• Example: A comprehensive study on happiness and money.

1. Mitigate (v.) - To make something less severe or intense.

• Example: Financial security can mitigate stress.

1. Integral (adj.) - Essential or necessary.

• Example: Social connections are integral to happiness.

1. Holistic (adj.) - Considering the complete system rather than its individual parts.

• Example: A holistic approach to happiness.

1. Non-material (adj.) - Not consisting of or relating to physical objects.

• Example: Non-material sources of happiness.

1. Correlate (v.) - To have a mutual relationship or connection.

• Example: Income correlates with happiness up to a certain point.

1. Pursue (v.) - To follow or undertake.

• Example: Pursuing higher education can enhance well-being.

1. Alleviate (v.) - To make something less severe or intense.

• Example: Financial security can alleviate stress.

1. Facilitate (v.) - To make something easier or more convenient.

• Example: Money can facilitate access to better healthcare.

1. Replicate (v.) - To make an exact copy of something.

• Example: The fulfillment from volunteering cannot be replicated by money.

common mistakes

1. Lack of Clear Position: Many students fail to present a clear position in their essay, leading to a lower score in the Task Response criterion.

1. Inadequate Examples: Using vague or irrelevant examples can weaken the argument and reduce the overall score.

1. Poor Cohesion: Essays that lack clear connections between ideas can be difficult to follow, affecting the Coherence and Cohesion score.

1. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes can lower the Grammatical Range and Accuracy score.

1. Limited Vocabulary: Using a limited range of vocabulary can negatively impact the Lexical Resource score.

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faqs

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

IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to describe visual information, such as graphs or charts, while Task 2 asks you to write a discursive essay on a given topic. Task 2 carries more weight in the overall writing score.

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

To improve your vocabulary, read widely from various sources, practice using new words in context, and review vocabulary lists related to common IELTS topics.

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

The word count requirement for IELTS Writing Task 2 is at least 250 words. Writing fewer than 250 words can result in a lower score.

How important is coherence and cohesion in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Coherence and cohesion are crucial in IELTS Writing Task 2. Your ideas should be logically organized and clearly connected to achieve a high score in this criterion.

What are some common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 include education, technology, society, environment, health, and global issues. Being familiar with these topics can help you prepare better.

How can I practice for IELTS Writing Task 2?

To practice for IELTS Writing Task 2, write essays on various topics, review sample answers, and get feedback from teachers or peers. Using resources like English AIdol can also help you improve.

What is the scoring criteria for IELTS Writing Task 2?

IELTS Writing Task 2 is scored based on four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each criterion is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9.

How can I manage my time effectively in IELTS Writing Task 2?

To manage your time effectively, spend about 20 minutes planning and organizing your ideas, 40 minutes writing, and 10 minutes reviewing and editing your essay.

What should I avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2?

Avoid writing off-topic, using memorized essays, and making frequent grammatical errors. Also, ensure your essay is well-structured and coherent.

stats_callouts

• Label: Percentage of test-takers who score Band 7 or higher

Value: 25% Source: IELTS 2023

• Label: Average time spent on IELTS Writing Task 2

Value: 45 minutes Source: IELTS 2023

• Label: Most common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2

Value: Society Source: IELTS 2023

• Label: Percentage of test-takers who meet the word count requirement

Value: 85% Source: IELTS 2023

• Label: Average vocabulary range of high-scoring essays

Value: 1500 words Source: IELTS 2023

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