IELTS Model Essay Example - Opinion Essay

Many people believe that social media has a negative impact on society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

This essay question type is the most common.

Practice writing your own response before looking at the IELTS Band 9 Essay example answer below. Please note that this is only an example and should not be memorized.

Show Band 7+ Sample Answer:

Many people think that social media is bad for society. While there are some problems, I believe it has more benefits than disadvantages.

There are some reasons why people see social media as harmful. One reason is that spending too much time on social media can affect mental health. People may feel lonely, anxious, or compare themselves to others. Also, social media is often used to spread false information or hateful comments, which can cause arguments or misunderstandings.

However, social media also has many positive sides. It helps people stay in touch with friends and family, even if they live far away. It also lets people learn about different cultures and lifestyles, which can help create a more open and understanding society.

In addition, people can share their opinions and talk about important problems, such as climate change or equality.

Social media also plays a big role in business and art. Small businesses can reach new customers, and artists or musicians can share their work with the world. This gives people more chances to be successful and creative.

In conclusion, although there are some negative effects of social media, I believe it brings more good than bad. It helps people connect, learn, and share ideas. If we use it carefully and think about how it affects us, social media can be a helpful tool for individuals and for society.

Why is this a good answer?

• Clear Opinion: Expresses agreement while acknowledging other views.

• Simple and Clear Language: Suitable for learners aiming at Band 7.

• Some Lexical Variety: Includes words like mental health, hateful comments, important problems, successful and creative.

• Sufficient Grammar Range: Good mix of sentence types, though less complex than Band 8.

Word/Phrase	Meaning
Integral part	An essential or necessary part of something
Misinformation	False or inaccurate information
Mental health	Emotional, psychological, and social well-being
Hate speech	Speech that attacks or discriminates against a group or individual
Raise awareness	To increase knowledge or understanding of an issue
Globalized world	A world connected through trade, communication, and travel
Cross-cultural communication	Communication between people from different cultural backgrounds
Revolutionized	Changed something in a big and important way
Engage with	Interact with or connect with (often customers or audience)
Responsible use	Using something in a careful, thoughtful way

Show Band 8+ Sample answer

Social media has become a central part of modern life, and while some argue it harms society, I believe its benefits outweigh the drawbacks. In this essay, I will explore both sides and explain why I view social media as a mostly positive force.

On the one hand, social media can negatively affect mental health. Research has shown that excessive use can lead to anxiety, depression, and low self-esteem, especially among teenagers. It also provides a platform for the spread of misinformation and hate speech, which can create social tension and division.

However, the positive aspects of social media are significant. Firstly, it allows people from different cultures and backgrounds to connect and share experiences. This cross-cultural communication fosters greater understanding and tolerance in an increasingly globalized world. Secondly, social media gives individuals a voice. Activists can raise awareness about important issues, such as environmental protection, social justice, or political reform, often leading to real-world action.

In addition, social media has revolutionized communication and business. People can now communicate instantly, regardless of location. Businesses use these platforms to market their products, reach global audiences, and engage with customers directly. Moreover, many artists, musicians, and small entrepreneurs gain exposure and build careers thanks to the opportunities social media provides.

In conclusion, although social media has its downsides—such as its effect on mental health and its role in spreading false information—it also has many advantages. It enhances communication, supports social movements, and boosts business and creativity. With responsible use, social media can continue to have a positive impact on society.

Why is this a good answer?

• Task Response: Fully addresses the question with a clear opinion and balanced discussion.

• Cohesion and Coherence: Ideas are logically organized with clear topic sentences and linking devices.

• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used accurately (e.g. globalized world, real-world action, misinformation, revolutionized).

• Grammatical Range: Varied sentence structures; mostly error-free.

Advanced vocabulary from this answer

1. Integral - essential or necessary for completeness.

2. Plethora - a large or excessive amount of something.

3. Detrimental - causing harm or damage.

4. Prejudice - preconceived opinion that is not based on reason or actual experience.

5. Division - the act of separating or dividing something into parts.

6. Revolutionized - completely changed or transformed something.

7. Advocacy - public support or recommendation of a particular cause or policy.

8. Game-changer - something that completely changes the way things are done.

9. Targeted - specifically aimed at a particular group or market.

10. Net positive - overall positive.