IELTS Writing Task 2 essay with model answer

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic

Present a written argument or case to an educated reader with no specialist knowledge of the following topic. In the modern world the image (photograph or film) is becoming a more powerful way of communicating than the  written word. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:

One of the highly controversial issues today relates to whether graphical representation is replacing scripture or that the written words are still the main domain for communication. I partially agree with the latter opinion due to several reasons that I will discuss in greater in my essay.

On one side of the argument there are people who argue that the use of graphics in communication is extremely beneficial. The main reason for believing this is that an image is easily understood by viewers regardless of the language they use. It is also possible to say that an image is much more likely to be memorized effortlessly than written words. One good illustration of this is a study conducted in the UK that concluded that images are recalled 5 times faster than words. Therefore, it is easy to see why this argument has gained support.

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On the other hand, it is also possible to make the opposing case. It is often argued that written words are much more powerful in conveying a meaning than an image or film. People often have this opinion because written words can express a wide range of meanings in great depth. A second point is that written materials are more economical and readily available. A particularly good example here is the number of books compared to films. Thus, it goes without saying that this viewpoint in credible and realistic too.

After having discussed the most pertinent points of this issue, I feel that the only logical conclusion is that on integration between written words and images will certainly combine the best of both worlds. Hence, I am strongly inclined to adopting a mix of both views.

Total Words: 302

Task Achievement: 9

Coherence & Cohesion: 9

Lexical resources: 8

Grammar: 8

Overall Score: Band 8.5

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