Online shopping and its effects on communities is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past five years. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current trends, this topic has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s examine one common question type and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
Some people believe that the growth of online shopping is having a negative impact on local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires you to:
- Take a clear position on the impact of online shopping
- Provide specific examples and evidence
- Consider effects on local communities
- Structure a coherent argument
Sample Essays
Band 8.5 Essay Sample
The proliferation of e-commerce has fundamentally transformed shopping habits worldwide, and while some argue this change undermines local communities, I partially agree with this viewpoint as the reality is more nuanced.
The economic impact of online trading on local communities cannot be ignored. Many small businesses and traditional shops have been forced to close, unable to compete with the competitive pricing and convenience of online retailers. This has led to vacant storefronts in town centers and reduced employment opportunities locally. Moreover, the decline in physical shopping has diminished opportunities for social interaction that traditionally occurred in local markets and shops.
However, online shopping has also created new opportunities for community development. Many local entrepreneurs have successfully expanded their reach by establishing online presence, enabling them to serve both local and global customers. Similar to the role of local food markets in communities, some online platforms have facilitated direct connections between local producers and consumers, strengthening community ties in new ways.
Furthermore, the time and money saved through online shopping can be redirected into other community activities. People can invest more time in local events, volunteer work, or family activities, contributing to community vitality in different ways. The convenience of online shopping has also made goods more accessible to elderly or disabled community members who might struggle with physical shopping.
In conclusion, while online shopping has undeniably altered traditional community structures, its impact is both positive and negative. The key lies in finding ways to harness its benefits while preserving valuable aspects of local community life.
Band 6.5 Essay Sample
In recent years, online shopping has become very popular, and some people think it is bad for local communities. I agree that it has some negative effects, but it also brings some benefits.
First, online shopping can harm local shops. When people buy things online, they don’t go to local stores anymore. This means many shops have to close down, and local people lose their jobs. Also, when shops close, the streets become empty and less friendly. Like Less social connection in communities now: agree or disagree, people don’t meet and talk to each other as much as before.
However, online shopping can also help communities. It makes shopping easier for busy people and those who cannot easily go to shops. Also, some local businesses can sell their products online and make more money. This helps them stay in business and keep serving the community.
Additionally, online shopping saves time and money. People can spend this extra time with family or joining community activities. They can also find better prices online, which helps them save money for other important things.
In conclusion, while online shopping has some negative effects on local communities, it also brings some advantages. We should try to balance both traditional and online shopping to help our communities.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay
- Task Response (9): Clear position, fully developed ideas
- Coherence & Cohesion (8): Logical organization, effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (8): Sophisticated vocabulary use
- Grammar (9): Complex structures, error-free
Band 6.5 Essay
- Task Response (6): Clear but simple ideas
- Coherence & Cohesion (7): Basic organization
- Lexical Resource (6): Limited but adequate vocabulary
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- proliferation (n) /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase
- fundamentally (adv) /ˌfʌn.də.ˈmen.təl.i/ – basically, essentially
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences
- vitality (n) /vaɪˈtæl.ə.ti/ – liveliness, energy
- undeniably (adv) /ˌʌn.dɪˈnaɪ.ə.bli/ – certainly, undoubtedly
Advanced Sentence Structures
- Complex with concession: “While online shopping has undeniably altered traditional community structures, its impact is both positive and negative.”
- Conditional perfect: “Had local businesses adapted earlier to online platforms, they might have maintained their market share.”
- Participle clause: “Having transformed shopping habits globally, e-commerce continues to reshape community dynamics.”
Consider practicing by writing your own essay and sharing it in the comments below for feedback and discussion.