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Discussionacademic·2022

Some people say that the Internet provides people with a lot of information, while others think that it is a tool that can be used for misinformation. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

Dedicate one full body paragraph to each of the two views presented in the question before offering your personal opinion in the conclusion. This ensures a balanced discussion, preventing your essay from appearing one-sided or biased towards either the Internet's informational benefits or its potential for misinformation too early in the essay.

2

When discussing the Internet as a source of information, consider examples like access to academic journals (e.g., JSTOR), reputable news outlets (e.g., BBC, The Guardian), and educational platforms (e.g., Coursera). For misinformation, you could cite the spread of health hoaxes (e.g., anti-vaccine narratives), political propaganda during elections, or the impact of deepfakes on public perception.

3

The most common mistake on this question is failing to *discuss* both views adequately, often presenting one side strongly and then weakly acknowledging the other, or introducing your opinion too early. To avoid this, ensure each body paragraph fully explores its respective view with supporting details and examples, using phrases like 'Proponents argue that...' and 'Conversely, critics contend that...' to clearly delineate the discussion.

4

For this discussion essay, employ clear contrasting and additive linking phrases to guide the reader through your arguments. After presenting the benefits, transition with phrases such as 'However, this optimistic view is tempered by concerns regarding...' or 'While the Internet's capacity for information dissemination is undeniable, a counter-argument posits that...'. Within paragraphs, use 'Furthermore,' 'Moreover,' and 'Nevertheless' to build coherence.

5

Examiners look for a sophisticated understanding of the Internet's dual nature, demonstrating nuanced argumentation rather than a simplistic 'good vs. bad' dichotomy. A band 8-9 answer will acknowledge how the same platforms can simultaneously facilitate both truth and falsehoods, using precise academic vocabulary to articulate these complexities and presenting a well-reasoned, integrated opinion in the conclusion.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Show mastery by presenting both sides fairly and establishing your stance.

  • Demonstrate understanding of BOTH perspectives — this shows critical thinking
  • State which side you lean toward — even if you're discussing both equally
  • Maintain neutral, academic tone — avoid emotional language or bias

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

There are differing opinions on whether...While some people believe that..., others argue that...This essay will examine both perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
2
Body Paragraph 1 — First Viewpoint

Present one side with respect and credibility.

  • Even if you disagree, present this view authentically with real examples
  • Use academic reporting language: 'Research indicates...', 'Studies show...', 'Experts argue...'
  • Acknowledge strengths — this demonstrates balanced analysis and earns marks

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the one hand, supporters of this view argue that...Those in favour point out that...A key argument for this position is...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Opposing Viewpoint

Present the counter-argument with equal depth and sophistication.

  • Match the structure and depth of paragraph 1 — examiners compare them
  • Use contrasting transition words: 'Conversely', 'In contrast', 'On the other hand'
  • If you have an opinion, make this paragraph slightly stronger — but stay fair

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the other hand, critics contend that...However, there is a strong counter-argument...Conversely, many people feel that...
4
Conclusion

Synthesize both views and deliver your decisive judgment.

  • Acknowledge validity of both sides — this shows intellectual maturity
  • State your preference clearly and confidently — don't hedge or waffle
  • Take a firm position — examiners reward clarity over fence-sitting

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, while both sides have merit, I believe that...Having considered both arguments, it seems that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

digital literacyThe ability to find, evaluate, create, and communicate information using digital technologies.
echo chambersSituations in which beliefs are amplified or reinforced by communication and repetition inside a closed system and insulated from refuting arguments.
curated contentInformation that has been selected, organized, and presented by someone with expertise or a specific purpose.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be madeUsed to introduce a strong and persuasive point.
this notion is predicated onIndicates that an idea or belief is based on a particular assumption or principle.
from my perspectiveUsed to introduce a personal opinion or viewpoint.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsImplies that there is a vast amount of data supporting a particular conclusion.
notwithstandingIn spite of; although.
it could be argued thatUsed to introduce a possible point of view, often to present a counter-argument or a nuanced perspective.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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