IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay Samples: 5 Band 9 Model Answers with Analysis

Introduction

An Opinion Essay is the most frequently appearing question type in IELTS Writing Task 2, accounting for approximately 40% of all exam prompts. In this essay type, you are asked to present and defend your personal viewpoint on a given issue, demonstrating your ability to construct a coherent argument supported by relevant examples and reasoning.

Unlike discussion essays, where balance is paramount, opinion essays reward clarity and conviction. Examiners want to see that you can take a definitive stance and justify it persuasively. A wishy-washy approach that tries to please everyone will typically result in a lower Task Response score.

The key to success lies in stating your position unambiguously from the introduction, developing it systematically through well-structured body paragraphs, and reinforcing it confidently in your conclusion.

Typical Question Wording

Opinion essays can be identified by these characteristic phrasings:

Direct agreement questions:

·        "Do you agree or disagree?"

·        "Do you agree or disagree with this statement?"

Scaled agreement questions:

·        "To what extent do you agree or disagree?"

·        "How far do you agree or disagree with this opinion?"

While both formats require you to express your opinion, the "to what extent" variation gives you slightly more flexibility to adopt a partially agreeing stance (though a fully committed position often scores better).

Strategy for Success

1. Write a Clear Thesis in Your Introduction

Your introduction should accomplish three things in 2-3 sentences:

·        Paraphrase the question to show understanding

·        State your position explicitly (agree, disagree, or partially agree)

·        Preview your main reasons (optional but helpful)

Example: "While some believe technology diminishes face-to-face interaction, I strongly agree that digital tools have fundamentally improved educational outcomes by increasing accessibility and personalizing learning experiences."

2. Develop 2-3 Strong Reasons with Examples

Each body paragraph should:

·        Begin with a clear topic sentence stating your reason

·        Explain how this reason supports your position

·        Provide a specific example or evidence

·        Include a concluding sentence that links back to your thesis

Aim for depth over breadth—two well-developed reasons outperform three superficial ones.

3. Acknowledge Counterarguments Briefly (Optional but Powerful)

For Band 8+, consider briefly acknowledging the opposing view before refuting it:

Example: "While critics argue that technology creates distractions in classrooms, this concern can be mitigated through proper classroom management and selective tool implementation."

This demonstrates critical thinking and strengthens your position.

4. Restate Your Position in the Conclusion

Your conclusion (2-3 sentences) should:

·        Reaffirm your stance using different wording

·        Summarize your main reasons briefly

·        Avoid introducing new arguments

5 Band 9 Sample Essays

Sample 1: Technology in Education

Question: Some people believe that technology has made learning more impersonal and reduced the quality of education. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Band 9 Model Answer:

While concerns about technology's impact on education are understandable, I strongly disagree with the view that digital tools have diminished educational quality. In fact, technological integration has revolutionized learning by making education more accessible and personalized than ever before.

The primary benefit of educational technology is its ability to democratize access to knowledge. Students in remote or underserved areas can now access the same high-quality lectures, interactive simulations, and research databases as those in prestigious institutions. For instance, platforms like Khan Academy and Coursera have enabled millions of learners worldwide to study advanced subjects from leading universities at minimal or no cost. This unprecedented accessibility has fundamentally expanded educational opportunities in ways that traditional classroom models never could.

Furthermore, technology enables truly personalized learning experiences that respond to individual student needs. Adaptive learning software can identify specific areas where a student struggles and automatically adjust difficulty levels and provide targeted practice. A mathematics student weak in algebra but strong in geometry, for example, can receive customized problem sets that address their unique learning gaps. This level of individualization is practically impossible for even the most dedicated teacher to achieve consistently across a classroom of 30 students.

Admittedly, technology can create distractions if implemented poorly, and excessive screen time may reduce face-to-face social interactions. However, these challenges stem from misuse rather than inherent technological limitations. When integrated thoughtfully—such as using collaborative platforms for group projects or interactive whiteboards to enhance discussions—technology actually enriches rather than replaces human interaction.

In conclusion, technology has unequivocally enhanced educational quality by removing geographical barriers and enabling customized learning pathways. Rather than making education impersonal, it has made truly personalized education possible at scale for the first time in human history.

(Word count: 285)

Analysis:

Task Response (Band 9): The essay presents a clear position from the introduction and maintains it throughout. The writer fully addresses the question by explaining why they disagree, providing specific reasons and examples.

Coherence and Cohesion (Band 9): Logical progression from accessibility to personalization. Effective use of discourse markers ("Furthermore," "Admittedly," "In conclusion"). Each paragraph focuses on one clear idea with strong topic sentences.

Lexical Resource (Band 9): Sophisticated vocabulary used naturally ("democratize access," "unprecedented accessibility," "adaptive learning software," "inherent technological limitations"). No repetition or awkward phrasing.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 9): Complex sentence structures with perfect accuracy. Variety of constructions including conditionals, relative clauses, and passive voice used appropriately.

Sample 2: Gap Year Travel

Question: Some people think that students should go straight to university after finishing high school, while others believe that taking a gap year to travel or work is more beneficial. To what extent do you agree with taking a gap year?

Band 9 Model Answer:

The debate over whether students should pursue immediate tertiary education or take a gap year has intensified in recent years. I firmly believe that a well-planned gap year offers substantial benefits that outweigh the advantages of proceeding directly to university, particularly in terms of maturity development and career clarity.

The most compelling argument for gap years is that they provide essential real-world experience that enhances academic performance upon university entry. Students who spend time working, volunteering, or traveling gain practical skills and life perspectives that make theoretical university coursework more meaningful. For example, a student who volunteers in healthcare during a gap year will approach pre-medical studies with genuine understanding of patient care challenges, rather than abstract textbook knowledge. Research from the American Gap Association confirms that gap year students consistently achieve higher GPAs than their peers who enrolled directly.

Additionally, gap years allow young people to make more informed decisions about their academic and career paths. At 18, many students lack sufficient exposure to different fields to choose wisely among hundreds of university programs. Working internships or exploring various industries during a gap year helps students identify genuine interests rather than pursuing degrees based on vague impressions or parental expectations. This clarity dramatically reduces the likelihood of costly program changes or dropout—problems that affect nearly 30% of students who enter university immediately after high school.

Critics argue that gap years disrupt academic momentum and that students may lose motivation to return to formal education. While this concern has merit, it primarily affects students who take unstructured gap years without clear objectives. When gap years include purposeful activities such as organized volunteer programs, structured work experiences, or educational travel, students typically return more focused and motivated than when they left.

In conclusion, I strongly support gap years as a valuable bridge between secondary and tertiary education. The maturity, practical experience, and self-awareness gained during this period create stronger, more committed university students who approach their education with purpose rather than obligation.

(Word count: 333)

Analysis:

Task Response (Band 9): Clear position stated and maintained throughout. The essay addresses both sides of the argument while defending a specific stance. Specific examples and research citations add credibility.

Coherence and Cohesion (Band 9): Excellent paragraph structure with each focusing on a distinct benefit. Smooth transitions between ideas. Counter-argument paragraph strengthens the overall argument.

Lexical Resource (Band 9): Wide range of precise vocabulary ("tertiary education," "disrupts academic momentum," "genuine understanding," "costly program changes"). Topic-specific terminology used appropriately.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 9): Complex sentences with subordinate clauses, perfect conditionals, and varied structures. No grammatical errors. Natural flow maintained throughout.

Sample 3: Environmental Responsibility (Government vs. Individuals)

Question: Some people believe that environmental problems should be solved by governments and large companies rather than by individuals. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Band 9 Model Answer:

While governments and corporations undoubtedly possess greater resources and regulatory power to address environmental issues, I disagree with the notion that environmental responsibility should rest solely with these entities. Meaningful environmental progress requires collective action across all levels of society, with individual behaviors playing an indispensable role.

Individual actions create cumulative impacts that are far from negligible. When millions of people modify daily habits—such as reducing meat consumption, choosing reusable products, or opting for public transportation—the aggregate effect becomes substantial. For instance, if every household in the United Kingdom reduced food waste by just 20%, this would prevent approximately 1.6 million tonnes of CO2 emissions annually, equivalent to removing 400,000 cars from roads. These collective micro-choices demonstrate that individual responsibility is not merely symbolic but materially significant.

Moreover, consumer behavior directly influences corporate practices through market mechanisms. Companies respond to purchasing patterns because profit depends on consumer demand. The explosive growth of plant-based meat alternatives illustrates this dynamic perfectly: major food corporations invested billions in developing these products only after consumers demonstrated a willingness to choose sustainable options. Similarly, the fashion industry's gradual shift toward sustainable materials has been driven primarily by consumer pressure rather than regulation. Individual choices thus serve as powerful market signals that redirect corporate behavior.

That said, I acknowledge that certain environmental challenges—such as regulating industrial emissions or protecting endangered ecosystems—require governmental authority and cannot be solved through personal choices alone. However, this does not diminish individual responsibility; rather, it highlights that different problems require different solutions. Citizens can simultaneously make sustainable personal choices while advocating for stronger environmental policies through voting and civic engagement.

In conclusion, while governments and corporations must certainly shoulder major environmental responsibilities, the notion that individuals bear no responsibility is both factually incorrect and practically counterproductive. Sustainable environmental outcomes emerge from coordinated action across all societal levels, not from a single source.

(Word count: 311)

Analysis:

Task Response (Band 9): Takes a nuanced position that disagrees with the premise while acknowledging legitimate points. Addresses the question directly with specific reasoning and examples.

Coherence and Cohesion (Band 9): Logical argument structure that builds from individual impact to market influence to governmental role. Effective use of linking phrases and clear topic sentences.

Lexical Resource (Band 9): Sophisticated vocabulary with precise meaning ("cumulative impacts," "aggregate effect," "market mechanisms," "materially significant"). Collocations used naturally.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 9): Complex grammatical structures including conditionals, participle clauses, and relative clauses. Error-free writing with varied sentence patterns.

Sample 4: Remote Work and Productivity

Question: Many employers now offer their employees the option to work from home. Do you think the advantages of this development outweigh the disadvantages?

Band 9 Model Answer:

The rapid normalization of remote work represents one of the most significant workplace transformations in modern history. While this shift presents certain challenges, I firmly believe that the advantages of working from home substantially outweigh the drawbacks, primarily due to increased flexibility and reduced operational costs.

The most significant benefit of remote work is the dramatic improvement in work-life balance it affords employees. Eliminating daily commutes saves workers an average of 2-3 hours daily, time that can be redirected toward family, health, or personal development. A software engineer in London, for example, who previously spent 90 minutes commuting each direction can now use those three hours to exercise, prepare healthy meals, or spend quality time with children. This flexibility particularly benefits working parents and caregivers who struggle to manage rigid office schedules alongside family responsibilities. Studies consistently show that employees with better work-life balance experience lower stress levels and report higher job satisfaction.

From an economic perspective, remote work delivers substantial cost savings for both employers and employees. Companies can reduce expenditures on office space, utilities, and amenities—savings that can be redirected toward employee development or product innovation. Employees simultaneously save thousands annually on transportation, work clothing, and meals. GitLab, a fully remote company with over 1,300 employees, estimates saving approximately $18 million annually on office space alone while maintaining productivity levels comparable to traditional competitors.

Admittedly, remote work can diminish spontaneous collaboration and create feelings of isolation for some employees. The casual conversations that spark innovation in physical offices occur less naturally in virtual environments. However, progressive companies have successfully addressed these challenges through intentional communication strategies: scheduled virtual coffee chats, regular team video calls, and occasional in-person gatherings. These structured approaches can effectively replicate office social dynamics when implemented thoughtfully.

In conclusion, despite legitimate concerns about collaboration and connection, remote work's benefits—particularly enhanced flexibility and significant cost reductions—clearly outweigh its limitations. As organizations refine best practices for virtual collaboration, the advantages will likely become even more pronounced.

(Word count: 331)

Analysis:

Task Response (Band 9): Clear position stated in introduction and defended throughout. Both advantages and disadvantages addressed with the writer's position on which outweighs clearly articulated.

Coherence and Cohesion (Band 9): Well-organized with each paragraph developing a specific aspect. Smooth transitions and clear progression of ideas. Counter-argument acknowledged and addressed.

Lexical Resource (Band 9): Precise vocabulary ("normalization," "operational costs," "spontaneous collaboration," "replicate office social dynamics"). Topic-specific terms used accurately.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 9): Wide variety of complex structures with perfect accuracy. Sophisticated use of clauses and phrases. Natural academic tone maintained.

Sample 5: Globalization and Cultural Identity

Question: Globalization has led to the loss of cultural identity in many societies. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?

Band 9 Model Answer:

Globalization's impact on cultural identity remains one of the most contentious debates in contemporary society. While I acknowledge that increased interconnectedness poses certain risks to traditional cultures, I largely disagree with the assertion that globalization inevitably erodes cultural identity. In fact, global connectivity often strengthens cultural awareness and creates opportunities for cultural preservation and exchange.

Rather than destroying local cultures, globalization frequently amplifies cultural visibility on the world stage. Indigenous communities, regional artists, and traditional craftspeople now have unprecedented platforms to share their heritage with global audiences. Korean pop culture exemplifies this phenomenon perfectly: rather than being diluted by Western influence, Korean music, television, and cinema have achieved worldwide recognition while maintaining distinctly Korean characteristics. The global success of "Squid Game" and BTS demonstrates that audiences worldwide hunger for authentic cultural expressions, not homogenized content. This international exposure often revitalizes interest in traditional practices even within their home countries, as younger generations recognize the global value of their heritage.

Moreover, globalization provides practical tools for cultural preservation that were previously unavailable. Digital archives, online language courses, and social media platforms enable endangered languages and traditions to be documented and transmitted to new generations. The Māori language in New Zealand, for instance, experienced a remarkable revitalization partly through digital resources and international interest facilitated by globalization. UNESCO's digital library projects have similarly preserved countless cultural artifacts that might otherwise have been lost to time, making them accessible to researchers and descendant communities worldwide.

Critics rightly observe that global brands and media can dominate local markets, potentially displacing traditional businesses and cultural practices. Fast-food chains appearing on every corner and Hollywood films crowding out local cinema are legitimate concerns. However, these outcomes reflect economic policy choices and lack of cultural protection measures rather than inevitable consequences of global connection. Countries like France have successfully maintained strong cultural identities while participating fully in the global economy through deliberate cultural policies and education.

In conclusion, globalization does not inherently destroy cultural identity; rather, it creates both risks and opportunities. When communities actively engage with global connectivity while consciously preserving their heritage, cultural identity can not only survive but thrive in our interconnected world.

(Word count: 361)

Analysis:

Task Response (Band 9): Sophisticated response that disagrees while acknowledging valid concerns. Provides specific, relevant examples from multiple cultures. Addresses the question comprehensively.

Coherence and Cohesion (Band 9): Excellent organization with clear progression from cultural amplification to preservation to addressing counter-arguments. Strong topic sentences and effective transitions.

Lexical Resource (Band 9): Wide-ranging vocabulary used precisely ("contentious debates," "amplifies cultural visibility," "homogenized content," "revitalization"). Natural academic register maintained.

Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 9): Complex, varied sentence structures with no errors. Sophisticated use of subordination, conditionals, and relative clauses.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Being Too Neutral

The Problem: Many students fear taking a strong stance and instead write essays that equally support both sides.

Why It Fails: Opinion essays explicitly ask for YOUR opinion. A non-committal approach confuses the examiner about your actual position and results in lower Task Response scores.

Example of What NOT to Write: "There are advantages and disadvantages to both sides, and both perspectives have merit."

What to Write Instead: "While I acknowledge that [opposing view] has some validity, I firmly believe that [your position] because [main reason]."

2. Repeating the Same Idea in Different Words

The Problem: Students present what appears to be multiple reasons but are actually variations of the same concept.

Example:

·        Body Paragraph 1: "Technology makes education more convenient."

·        Body Paragraph 2: "Technology makes learning easier and more comfortable."

These are essentially the same point reworded.

Solution: Ensure each body paragraph presents a distinct reason. Ask yourself: "Could someone agree with my first point but disagree with my second?" If not, they're probably the same idea.

3. Weak Thesis Statements

The Problem: Vague or overly complex thesis statements that don't clearly indicate your position.

Weak Example: "This essay will discuss various aspects of technology in education and present different perspectives on this complex issue."

Strong Example: "I strongly disagree that technology has reduced educational quality; digital tools have instead revolutionized learning by making education more accessible and personalized."

Key Difference: The strong thesis takes a clear stance and previews the main reasons.

Practice Questions

Test your skills with these opinion essay prompts:

Practice Question 1

Some people believe that universities should only offer courses that are useful for future employment, while others think universities should provide education for its own sake, regardless of job market demands. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Practice Question 2

Many people believe that social media platforms have a more negative than positive effect on society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Practice Question 3

Some argue that the best way to solve traffic congestion in cities is to provide free public transportation. Do you agree or disagree? 

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