The “Agree or Disagree” question is one of the most common in IELTS Writing Task 2. It tests your ability to take a clear position and defend it with logical arguments. The biggest mistake test-takers make is having an unclear opinion. This guide will show you exactly how to state your position and write a compelling essay.
Example Question:
Some people believe that unpaid community service should be a compulsory part of high school programmes (for example, working for a charity, improving the neighbourhood, or teaching sports to younger children). To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Full Band 9 Model Answer:
(Paraphrase) It is argued by some that voluntary work for the benefit of the community should be a mandatory element of secondary school education. (Thesis) I strongly agree with this notion because it instils crucial values in young adults and provides them with invaluable practical experience.
(The primary reason) The primary reason for my belief is that compulsory community service helps develop empathy and social responsibility in students. Schools are not just for academic learning; they are for character building. For instance, a teenager who spends time helping at a homeless shelter or cleaning a local park will gain a first-hand understanding of societal issues and learn the importance of contributing to the common good. These are lessons that are difficult to teach from a textbook alone.
(Another compelling argument) Furthermore, such initiatives offer students practical skills that enhance their future prospects. This experience can provide a glimpse into potential career paths and teach soft skills like teamwork, communication, and problem-solving. A student teaching sports to children might discover a passion for coaching or education, while another organising a charity event will learn project management and leadership skills that are highly valued by universities and employers alike.
(In conclusion) In conclusion, making unpaid community service a required part of the high school curriculum is highly beneficial. I firmly believe that the character development and practical experience it provides are indispensable for shaping well-rounded and conscientious future citizens.
Vocabulary Analysis:
- Instils crucial values: (Phrase) Teaches important principles.
- Invaluable practical experience: (Phrase) Extremely useful real-world skills.
- Empathy and social responsibility: (Nouns) Key concepts for character.
- A glimpse into potential career paths: (Phrase) A chance to see future options.
- Indispensable: (Adj.) Absolutely necessary.
- Conscientious: (Adj.) Wishing to do what is right.
Common Mistakes to Avoid:
- Having an Unclear Position: Do not say “I both agree and disagree.” Choose one side and stick to it. A partial opinion is possible but advanced; it’s safer to be fully for or against.
- Irrelevant Arguments: Every example must directly support your position. Don’t go off-topic.
- Informal Language: Avoid contractions (e.g., write “do not” instead of “don’t”) and slang.
Pro Tip: Use a “While…” clause in your introduction to acknowledge the other side before stating your own, which shows sophistication. E.g., “While some argue that this would be a burden on students, I firmly believe…”