In the Academic IELTS Writing section, technology-related essay topics often explore the impact of technological advancements on society and individuals. Common subtopics may include: the role of technology in education, the impact of social media on communication, technology and privacy concerns, the influence of technology on employment, and the ethical implications of artificial intelligence.
Find useful IELTS vocabulary on technology and science here.
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Task 1
With the rise of e-books comes the decline in paper books. Some people see this as a good step forward while others do not. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend
Approach: This is an “advantages vs. disadvantages” essay that asks you to evaluate the rise of e-books and its impact on paper books. The key issue is whether the shift to e-books is beneficial or harmful.
Structure:
| Advantages of E-books | Disadvantages of E-books / Decline of Paper Books |
|---|
| Lower production costs boost publishing house profits | Harms economies dependent on paper production (e.g., Finland) |
| Reduces paper usage, helping to preserve forests | Job losses in traditional paper industries |
| Supports ecological sustainability through less deforestation | E-book production and storage still have environmental impact (e.g., energy use, device manufacturing) |
Conclude by weighing both sides and providing a balanced opinion on whether e-books outweigh the decline of paper books.
Model Answer
As e-books continue to gain traction, the sales of traditional paper books are inevitably declining. Some individuals perceive this shift as a positive development, citing increased profitability for publishing houses due to reduced production costs. Conversely, others contend that this trend presents significant drawbacks, particularly the diminishing demand for paper, which affects paper manufacturers. This essay will examine both sides of the debate.
Proponents of the e-book phenomenon often present two key arguments to support their viewpoint. Firstly, they claim that the rise of e-books positively impacts the financial performance of publishing houses because of the reduced costs associated with lower paper consumption. Secondly, they highlight that decreased paper usage helps preserve forests, which play a vital role in oxygen production and overall ecological balance.
On the other hand, advocates for traditional paper books argue that the decline in paper demand can have detrimental economic consequences, particularly for nations heavily reliant on the paper industry. For instance, approximately one-third of Finland’s GDP comes from paper sales meaning that even a small reduction in paper demand could trigger heavy job losses in these economies. Additionally, the widespread use of e-books may contribute to environmental issues, as the production of electronic devices and the energy consumption involved in downloading and storing e-books can also have a substantial ecological footprint.
In conclusion, the surge in e-books and the corresponding decline in the popularity of paper books present both advantages, particularly for publishing houses and environmental sustainability, and disadvantages, notably economic repercussions. Ultimately, balancing technological progress with the preservation of traditional industries will be key to addressing the challenges of this shift.
- Essay Question: With the rise of e-books comes the decline in paper books. Some people see this as a good step forward while others do not. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend.
Introduction
- Clarity & Thesis Statement Effectiveness: The introduction clearly outlines the topic and presents a balanced thesis statement, indicating that both advantages and disadvantages will be explored.
Body Paragraphs
- Main Arguments/Examples Used in the Essay:
- Advantages: Increased profitability for publishing houses due to reduced costs; environmental benefits from decreased paper consumption.
- Disadvantages: Economic impact on countries reliant on paper production, exemplified by Finland’s GDP reliance on paper sales.
- Assess Argument Balance, Coherence, and Cohesion: The essay maintains a balanced discussion, with clear transitions between advantages and disadvantages, enhancing coherence and cohesion.
Conclusion
- Effectiveness in Summarizing and Reinforcing the Opinion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and reinforces the need to consider both sides of the argument.
Useful Vocabulary, Phrases, and Complex Structures
High-Level Vocabulary Words:
- Traction: gaining popularity
- Profitability: financial gain
- Detrimental: harmful
- Ecological balance: environmental stability
- Trigger: cause to happen
Useful Academic Phrases:
- “This essay will examine both sides of the debate.”
- “Proponents of the e-book phenomenon often present two key arguments to support their viewpoint.”
- “On the other hand, advocates for traditional paper books argue that.”
Complex Sentence Examples:
- “Conversely, others contend that this trend presents significant drawbacks, particularly the diminishing demand for paper, which affects paper manufacturers.”
- “For instance, approximately one-third of Finland’s GDP comes from paper sales, meaning that even a small reduction in paper demand could trigger heavy job losses in these economies.”
Task 2
An increasing number of people are buying what they need online. What are the advantages and disadvantages for both individuals and companies to shopping online?
Approach: This is an “advantages vs. disadvantages” essay that explores the impact of online shopping on both individuals and companies. Start by identifying the core issue: how online shopping benefits and harms both sides.
Structure:
| Advantages of Online Shopping | Disadvantages of Online Shopping |
|---|
- Convenient access to a wide range of products and brands
- Global reach for businesses without high physical store costs
- Companies can focus funds on online marketing (e.g., Amazon’s success)
| - Products may not meet expectations (e.g., sizing issues with clothing)
- High return costs for businesses due to customer dissatisfaction
- Fragile items may be damaged during shipping, requiring skilled handling
|
Conclude by providing a balanced view of the benefits and challenges of online shopping for both groups.
Model Answer
The rise in the number of consumers shopping online has sparked considerable debate. While this trend offers numerous advantages, it is equally important to recognize its inherent drawbacks. This essay will explore both sides of the issue to provide a well-rounded view.
The ability to access a large range of online retailers offers several significant benefits. Firstly, consumers can effortlessly shop for their preferred brands, whether they seek the latest gadgets or essential home furnishings, all just in a few clicks. Secondly, businesses can expand their reach to a global market without incurring huge expenses associated with physical storefronts; instead, they can allocate those funds toward marketing their online platforms. For instance, Amazon, one of the largest e-commerce giants, provides a vast selection of products and brands, appealing to a diverse demographic due to its user-friendly interface.
However, online shopping is not without its downsides. A common issue arises when consumers are dissatisfied with the products they receive, such as when clothing items do not fit as expected. This discontent can lead to significant financial losses for companies due to the costs associated with processing returns. Additionally, the fragility of certain products poses another challenge; items that are easily breakable may get damaged during shipping. Consequently, shipping companies must employ highly skilled professionals to mitigate the risk of such incidents occurring frequently.
In conclusion, while online shopping offers convenience and accessibility, it also presents challenges that can result in substantial costs for businesses and disappointment for consumers. A balanced approach is essential to navigate the complexities of this modern retail landscape.
Essay Question: An increasing number of people are buying what they need online. What are the advantages and disadvantages for both individuals and companies to shopping online?
Introduction
- Clarity & Thesis Statement Effectiveness: The introduction clearly outlines the topic and presents a balanced thesis statement, indicating that both advantages and disadvantages will be explored.
Body Paragraphs
Main Arguments/Examples Used:
- Advantages: Easy access to a wide range of products; businesses can reach a global audience without high overhead costs.
- Disadvantages: Customer dissatisfaction with products; financial losses due to returns; risks of product damage during shipping.
- Argument Balance, Coherence, and Cohesion: The essay maintains a balanced discussion of both sides, with clear transitions and logical flow between points.
Conclusion
- Effectiveness in Summarizing and Reinforcing the Opinion: The conclusion succinctly summarizes the main points and reinforces the complexity of the online shopping debate.
Useful Vocabulary, Phrases, and Complex Structures
High-Level Vocabulary Words:
- Demographic (a particular sector of a population)
- User-friendly (easy to use)
- Downsides – drawbacks
- Discontent – Disappointment
- Navigate – to tackle
Useful Academic Phrases:
- “This essay will explore both sides of the issue…”
- ” A common issue arises when …”
- “A balanced approach is essential…”
Complex Sentence Examples:
- ” While this trend offers numerous advantages, it is equally important to recognize its inherent drawbacks.”
- ” Consequently, shipping companies must employ highly skilled professionals to mitigate the risk of such incidents occurring frequently.”
