Prompt
Essay – Technology and social contact
Some people believe that modern communication technology is making people less socially active, while others think it helps people to build stronger relationships. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Band 9 sample answer
Band 9 sample answer
Modern communication technology has transformed how people interact. Some argue it is reducing real-world social activity, whereas others believe it strengthens relationships by making contact easier. Both views have merit, although I think technology generally deepens relationships when used deliberately, despite some clear risks.
On the one hand, social apps and messaging can replace face-to-face encounters with low-effort contact. People may spend evenings scrolling or replying to short texts instead of meeting friends, and even when they do meet, phones can fragment attention. In addition, online interaction often encourages “broadcasting” rather than genuine conversation, which can create a misleading sense of connection while leaving individuals socially isolated.
On the other hand, these tools can meaningfully enhance relationships by removing barriers of distance and time. Video calls allow families to remain emotionally close across countries, and group chats help friends coordinate plans and share everyday moments. Technology can also support shy or busy people by providing gradual, low-pressure ways to maintain ties, and it enables communities to form around shared interests, which can lead to lasting offline friendships.
In my view, the key variable is not the technology itself but the habits it promotes. If people use digital communication to initiate plans, sustain long-distance bonds, and exchange thoughtful messages, relationships can become stronger. However, when it becomes a substitute for in-person contact and focused listening, social life is likely to shrink. Overall, technology is more a tool than a threat, and conscious use determines its social impact.
Verified word count: 253
Why this answer works
explanation
It addresses both perspectives with specific mechanisms (displacement of in-person contact vs reduced distance/friction), then offers a nuanced, consistent opinion: outcomes depend on usage habits. Ideas are fully developed with clear examples (video calls for families abroad, group chats coordinating plans) and a decisive conclusion. The structure is easy to follow (introduction, two body paragraphs, opinion-led conclusion) and cohesion is strong through contrastive linking and precise referencing.
what this question tests
This is a ‘discuss both views and give your opinion’ Task 2 prompt. It tests your ability to present balanced arguments, evaluate how communication technology affects social behaviour and relationship quality, and state a clear position supported by relevant examples and coherent reasoning.
Useful vocabulary and phrases
low-effort contact
Shows precise evaluation of online interaction quality.
Quick reactions and short texts can become low-effort contact that replaces deeper conversation.
fragment attention
Natural collocation that demonstrates sophisticated control.
Phones can fragment attention during meals and conversations.
a misleading sense of connection
Expresses nuance and critical thinking.
Constant updates can give a misleading sense of connection.
remove barriers of distance and time
Directly supports the pro-technology argument.
Video calls remove barriers of distance and time for relatives abroad.
the key variable
Helps present a clear evaluative stance.
The key variable is how intentionally people use these platforms.
a substitute for
Fits the ‘replacement’ logic central to the prompt.
When messaging becomes a substitute for meeting in person, bonds can weaken.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Discussing only one side and forgetting to ‘discuss both views’.
- Giving an opinion without clear reasons or examples.
- Using overly general statements (e.g., ‘technology is bad’) instead of explaining specific effects such as distraction or enabling long-distance intimacy.
- Writing a conclusion that introduces new arguments instead of summarising your position.
- Overusing informal language (e.g., ‘stuff’, ‘kids these days’) in an academic essay.
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