Consumerism culture and its negative impacts have been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past decade. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns and the influence of globalization on youth culture, this theme is likely to remain relevant in future tests.
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Task Analysis
Some people believe that modern society’s increasing consumption of material goods is having a negative impact on both individuals and society as a whole. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on the impact of consumerism
- Discuss effects on both individual and societal levels
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced discussion
The negative effects of consumerism on society and individuals
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
In today’s materialistic world, the growing trend of excessive consumption has sparked debate about its consequences. I strongly agree that this consumer-driven culture poses significant threats to both individual well-being and societal harmony.
At an individual level, the relentless pursuit of material possessions often leads to severe psychological and financial problems. People frequently fall into the trap of compulsive buying, accumulating debt while chasing the latest trends and products. This behavior, similar to how global migration affects cultural diversity, can create lasting negative impacts on personal identity and financial stability. Moreover, the constant pressure to maintain a certain lifestyle through material possessions can result in chronic stress, anxiety, and diminished life satisfaction.
From a societal perspective, rampant consumerism contributes to environmental degradation and social inequality. The endless cycle of production and disposal strains natural resources and generates unprecedented levels of waste. Furthermore, this culture creates and perpetuates social divisions, as people are increasingly judged by their material possessions rather than their character or contributions to society.
In conclusion, while consumer spending drives economic growth, its excessive nature in modern society clearly demonstrates detrimental effects that outweigh potential benefits. Immediate action is needed to promote more sustainable and mindful consumption patterns.
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
I agree that excessive consumption is causing problems for people and society today. This issue is similar to Throwaway society: advantages outweigh disadvantages in many ways.
Firstly, people spend too much money on things they don’t need. Many people use credit cards to buy expensive items and get into debt. This makes them stressed and unhappy. Also, they work harder just to buy more things, which affects their health and family life.
For society, too much consumption causes pollution and waste. Factories make more products, creating air pollution. People throw away old things quickly, making more garbage. This hurts the environment. Also, some people feel bad when they can’t buy expensive things like others.
In conclusion, I think consumer culture is bad for both individuals and society. We should try to buy less and focus on what’s really important in life.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary (relentless pursuit, rampant consumerism)
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization and cohesion
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Good but simpler vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Clear but less sophisticated organization
- Some development of ideas
- More casual tone
Key Vocabulary
- Consumerism (n) /kənˈsjuːmərɪzəm/ – excessive preoccupation with buying consumer goods
- Materialistic (adj) /məˌtɪriəˈlɪstɪk/ – excessively concerned with material possessions
- Compulsive (adj) /kəmˈpʌlsɪv/ – resulting from or relating to an irresistible urge
- Rampant (adj) /ˈræmpənt/ – flourishing or spreading unchecked
- Perpetuate (v) /pərˈpetʃueɪt/ – make something continue indefinitely
High-scoring Sentence Patterns
- Complex Cause-Effect: “The relentless pursuit of material possessions often leads to severe psychological and financial problems.”
- Parallel Structure: “This behavior creates and perpetuates social divisions, as people are increasingly judged by their material possessions rather than their character.”
- Concession-Counter Structure: “While consumer spending drives economic growth, its excessive nature clearly demonstrates detrimental effects.”
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback. Focus on incorporating sophisticated vocabulary and varied sentence structures while maintaining clear organization and coherent arguments.
