IELTS Academic Writing Task 2 – Social Media & Relationships
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Model Essay (Band 8–8.5)
Social media has become one of the most powerful tools of communication in modern society. While some people argue that it has strengthened human interaction, others believe it has weakened genuine personal relationships. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
On the one hand, social media has undeniably improved communication in several important ways. It allows people to stay connected across geographical boundaries, maintain long-distance relationships, and interact instantly at minimal cost. For individuals who live far from family or work in international environments, platforms such as messaging apps and video calls are essential for sustaining emotional bonds. Moreover, social media enables the rapid exchange of information and ideas, fostering social awareness and global interaction.
On the other hand, critics argue that reliance on online interaction has damaged real-world relationships. Excessive screen time often reduces face-to-face communication, which is vital for developing empathy, emotional intelligence, and deep interpersonal trust. In some cases, virtual communication creates a false sense of connection, where individuals appear socially active online but feel isolated in real life. Furthermore, constant comparison with curated online lives can lead to dissatisfaction and weakened self-esteem, putting strain on personal relationships.
In my opinion, social media is neither inherently harmful nor entirely beneficial; its impact depends largely on how it is used. When employed as a supportive communication tool rather than a replacement for real interaction, it can enhance relationships. However, unregulated overuse risks undermining the quality of genuine human connection.
In conclusion, although social media has revolutionized communication by making it faster and more accessible, it can also weaken real relationships if misused. A balanced approach is therefore essential to preserve meaningful social interaction.
Analytical Review – Strengths, Weaknesses & Improvements
- Balanced discussion with a clear personal stance in the final body paragraph.
- Advanced academic vocabulary such as “geographical boundaries,” “emotional intelligence,” “curated online lives,” “interpersonal trust”.
- Strong contrast structure using “On the one hand / On the other hand”.
- Excellent task response with no deviation from the main topic.
- No concrete statistical or research-based example is included.
- The final paragraph could be slightly more analytical.
- Add one short real-world data point (e.g., average daily screen time).
- Include one brief reference to psychological research on social interaction.
- maintain emotional bonds
- instant communication
- face-to-face interaction
- false sense of connection
- meaningful social relationships
- Use one mixed conditional to predict long-term social outcomes.
- Add a short academic counter-argument about digital dependency.
- Integrate one precise sociological concept such as “digital alienation.”