Overview
Here you can see another example of a high level IELTS Task 2 Essay with an explanation of what makes it a good essay.
Writing Task 2
Some people consider computers to be more of a hindrance than a help. Others believe that they have greatly increased human potential.
How could computers be considered a hindrance?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience.
Introduction
The ubiquitous daily over-reliance on technology is becoming more and more obvious in our society [1]. Whether computers increase our mental capacity or they are just an obstacle to one’s development is an increasingly debatable topic nowadays. There is clearly room for discussion per the reasons why computers might be considered a hindrance [2].
[1] Introduces the essay topic with a fact or by paraphrasing the question
[2] Shows the two sides of the essay you will discuss
Paragraph 1
Firstly, computers reduce our mental capacity as humans [3]. Although using a computer for education offers some advantages such as access to a wealth of knowledge known as the internet [4], students in our modern society begin using computers and other technology during the very early stages of their education reducing their ability to make logical judgements, their capacity to calculate and to reason which then lead to the creation of an individual who will rely on a computer or another smart device for menial tasks such as simple calculations [5]. Hence, computers could be considered a hindrance for the development of new skills and the expansion of a human’s mental capacity [6].
[3] Introduces the first argument
[4] Introduces an argument point with an apposing admission
[5] Extends the argument point with a possible result
[6] Returns to the essay topic by confirming why it is a good argument
Paragraph 2
Secondly, using a computer can be incredibly distracting [7]. Computers offer a great variety of software and programs to keep the user very well entertained, thereby reducing their productivity [8]. For instance, researchers have shown that both children and adults who use their computer for educational, business or labor purposes spend nearly 60% of their time in front of the computer doing other activities such as using social media, playing games, watching videos or browsing the internet [9]. Based on this evidence, there is clearly a suggestion that computers and other smart devices can reduce a person’s productivity [10].
[7] Introduces another argument for the question
[8] Explains the argument point in more detail
[9] Provides evidence to support the point made
[10] Returns to the question to reenforce why the argument was relevant
Conclusion
In conclusion [11], using a computer for educational purposes reduces judgement, calculation capacity and reasoning, thereby being an obstacle for the development of new mental skills and the expansion of human potential [12]. Moreover, using a computer might reduce productivity due to the various avenues of entertainment available to users [13].
[11] Introduces the conclusion
[12] Summaries the first argument made
