IELTS Task 2 High-Score Model Answers Series: Discussion Essays (11.28)

Welcome to the second article in our comprehensive IELTS Task 2 series.

Following our first article on Opinion Essays, this installment focuses on Discussion Essays (Discuss Both Views and Give Your Opinion), another frequently appearing Task 2 format. You'll find 10 model answers covering diverse topics, with useful expressions highlighted in bold that you can adapt to various contexts.

 

Understanding Discussion Essays in IELTS Task 2

Discussion Essays typically present two contrasting viewpoints and ask you to:

l "Discuss both views and give your own opinion"

l "Discuss both sides and give your opinion"

l "Examine both perspectives and state your position"

Basic Structure:

1. Introduction: Paraphrase the topic + Indicate you will discuss both views

2. Body Paragraph 1: Present and explain the first viewpoint

3. Body Paragraph 2: Present and explain the second viewpoint

4. Conclusion: Summarize both views + State your own opinion

Key Differences from Opinion Essays:

l Must give balanced attention to both perspectives

l Personal opinion comes after discussing both sides

l Requires objective presentation of views you may disagree with

l Should demonstrate ability to understand multiple perspectives

For a deeper understanding of all IELTS Task 2 essay types and scoring criteria, explore our IELTS Writing Task 2 guide.

Useful Expressions for Discussion Essays

Here are transferable expressions organized by function, appearing throughout the model answers below.

Introducing the Topic

· The debate over... remains contentious

· Views diverge considerably regarding...

· There is ongoing debate about whether...

· Opinions are divided on the question of...

· The issue of... has sparked considerable discussion

Introducing Both Views

· While both factors/perspectives are important...

· This essay will examine both perspectives before...

· Both positions merit careful consideration

· Each viewpoint offers compelling arguments

Presenting the First View

· Those who prioritize/support/advocate X argue that...

· Proponents of X contend that...

· Supporters of this view emphasize...

· From this perspective...

· One school of thought maintains that...

· People holding this view believe that...

Presenting the Second View

· Conversely...

· On the other hand...

· However, opponents/critics argue that...

· Those who favor the alternative view suggest that...

· The opposing perspective emphasizes...

· In contrast, others maintain that...

Supporting Arguments

· This position is supported by the fact that...

· Evidence for this view can be seen in...

· This argument gains credibility from...

· Research indicates that...

· Experience demonstrates that...

Adding Reasoning

· The rationale behind this view is that...

· This stems from the belief that...

· The underlying assumption is that...

· This perspective rests on the premise that...

Balancing Discussion

· While this argument has merit...

· Although this perspective is valid...

· Despite these advantages...

· Notwithstanding these points...

· This view, though understandable...

Introducing Your Opinion

· In my view...

· From my perspective...

· I am inclined to believe that...

· My position aligns more closely with...

· I tend to favor the view that...

· Having considered both perspectives, I believe...

Qualifying Your Opinion

· While I acknowledge the validity of X...

· Though I recognize the importance of X...

· Although both views have merit...

· Despite understanding both positions...

Concluding

· In conclusion, while both perspectives offer valid insights...

· To conclude, although both views present compelling arguments...

· Ultimately, the most balanced approach...

· The ideal solution lies in...

· A nuanced understanding requires acknowledging...

Ten High-Score Model Answers

Example 1: Work & Career

Topic: Some people think job satisfaction is more important than job security, while others believe job security is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Model Answer (282 words):

The debate over whether job satisfaction or job security should take precedence in career decisions remains contentious. While both factors are important, this essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Those who prioritize job satisfaction argue that fulfillment and engagement in one's work are essential for overall well-being and long-term success. This position is supported by the fact that employees who find their work meaningful typically demonstrate higher productivity, creativity, and commitment. Furthermore, spending a significant portion of one's life in an unsatisfying role can lead to stress, burnout, and deteriorating mental health. From this perspective, pursuing work that aligns with personal interests and values outweighs the benefits of stability in an unfulfilling position. For instance, many professionals willingly accept lower salaries or less stable positions to work in fields they are passionate about.

Conversely, proponents of job security contend that financial stability and predictability constitute fundamental needs. The rationale behind this view is that a secure position provides consistent income, enabling individuals to meet basic needs, support families, and plan for the future. Moreover, job security often correlates with benefits such as health insurance, retirement plans, and paid leave, which are crucial for long-term financial well-being. In today's economic climate, where living costs continue to rise, the peace of mind that comes with stable employment cannot be easily dismissed.

In my view, while I acknowledge the validity of job security concerns, job satisfaction holds greater long-term importance. Having considered both perspectives, I believe dissatisfaction in secure positions frequently leads to disengagement and health problems that ultimately undermine the very stability people seek. The ideal solution lies in seeking roles that offer reasonable security while also providing meaningful work.

Example 2: Education

Topic: Some people believe that students should study subjects they are interested in, while others think they should study all subjects equally. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (274 words):

Views diverge considerably regarding whether students should specialize in subjects of personal interest or maintain broad academic engagement. Both positions merit careful consideration.

Advocates of specialized study contend that allowing students to focus on preferred subjects enhances motivation and achievement. This stems from the belief that when students pursue disciplines they find genuinely engaging, they typically invest more effort, demonstrate deeper understanding, and develop greater expertise. Furthermore, specialization enables students to develop advanced skills in specific areas, better preparing them for specialized careers in fields like medicine, engineering, or the arts. Evidence for this view can be seen in many successful professionals who attribute their achievements to early focus on subjects they were passionate about.

On the other hand, those who support broad-based education argue that comprehensive subject coverage provides essential foundation for well-rounded development. The underlying assumption is that studying diverse disciplines cultivates versatile thinking skills and exposes students to knowledge areas they might not naturally gravitate toward but which prove valuable later. Moreover, requiring all subjects prevents premature specialization that could limit future opportunities, as many students lack sufficient maturity to make informed long-term decisions about their interests and capabilities. A broad curriculum also ensures that students acquire the fundamental literacy, numeracy, and scientific knowledge necessary for informed citizenship.

Having considered both perspectives, I believe a balanced approach is optimal. While I recognize the importance of maintaining core competencies across essential areas, I am inclined to believe that forcing engagement with consistently unsuitable material proves counterproductive. The ideal solution lies in combining a core curriculum ensuring basic competencies across essential areas while allowing increasing specialization as students mature and their interests crystallize.

Example 3: Technology & Society

Topic: Some people believe that technology makes life more complex, while others think it makes life simpler. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (278 words):

The issue of technology's impact on life's complexity has sparked considerable discussion. Opinions are divided on whether technological advancement simplifies or complicates modern existence, and each viewpoint offers compelling arguments.

Critics who argue that technology increases complexity point to several compelling concerns. This perspective rests on the premise that modern life requires managing countless devices, passwords, software updates, and digital accounts, creating cognitive overload that previous generations never experienced. Furthermore, technological failures can paralyze essential activities—a crashed computer or lost smartphone can prevent access to banking, communication, and work. The constant need to learn new systems and adapt to changing platforms adds persistent stress. Additionally, technology has blurred boundaries between work and personal life, making it difficult to disconnect and truly relax.

Conversely, proponents of technology's simplifying effects emphasize its remarkable capacity to streamline daily tasks. The rationale behind this view is that smartphones consolidate functions that previously required multiple devices and physical locations—banking, shopping, navigation, and communication now occur through a single tool. Moreover, automation handles repetitive tasks like climate control, security monitoring, and routine scheduling, freeing individuals to focus on more meaningful activities. This argument gains credibility from the fact that online services eliminate tedious bureaucratic processes, allowing instant bill payments, appointment bookings, and information access.

From my perspective, while I acknowledge the validity of both arguments, the relationship between technology and complexity is nuanced. I tend to favor the view that technology itself offers simplification potential, but the extent to which it actually simplifies life depends largely on how thoughtfully we integrate it. A nuanced understanding requires acknowledging that when used selectively and managed well, technology reduces complexity; however, when adopted uncritically, it can overwhelm.

Example 4: Environment

Topic: Some people say individuals should take primary responsibility for environmental protection, while others believe governments and large companies should be responsible. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (275 words):

There is ongoing debate about whether individuals or institutions should bear primary responsibility for environmental protection. While both factors are important, understanding each perspective reveals the complexity of environmental governance.

Those who emphasize individual responsibility argue that collective environmental outcomes emerge from millions of personal choices. This position is supported by the fact that daily decisions about consumption, transportation, and waste disposal cumulatively create substantial impact. By adopting sustainable practices—reducing consumption, recycling, choosing public transport, and supporting environmentally conscious businesses—individuals directly decrease their environmental footprint. Furthermore, this stems from the belief that personal responsibility fosters environmental consciousness and creates cultural shifts that ultimately influence broader policy.

However, proponents of institutional responsibility contend that systemic change requires government regulation and corporate accountability. The underlying assumption is that individual efforts, while admirable, remain insufficient to address large-scale environmental challenges like industrial pollution, deforestation, and greenhouse gas emissions from major corporations. Evidence for this view can be seen in the fact that governments possess regulatory authority to enforce environmental standards, invest in green infrastructure, and incentivize sustainable practices through policy mechanisms. Moreover, corporations control supply chains, manufacturing processes, and product design—decisions affecting environmental outcomes far beyond individual consumer control.

From my perspective, despite understanding both positions, framing this as an either-or choice oversimplifies the issue. Having considered both perspectives, I believe environmental protection requires coordinated action across all levels. While I recognize the importance of individual responsibility in creating cultural momentum, my position aligns more closely with the view that only institutional frameworks can enforce the systemic changes necessary for meaningful environmental protection. Ultimately, the most balanced approach integrates personal accountability with robust governmental regulation and corporate responsibility.

Example 5: Media & Entertainment

Topic: Some people think that newspapers are the best way to learn about news, while others believe that they can learn news more effectively through other media. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (296 words):

Opinions are divided on which media format best serves news consumption in the modern era. Both positions merit careful consideration as they reflect different priorities in information access.

Supporters of newspapers emphasize their journalistic rigor and depth. This perspective rests on the premise that traditional newspapers employ professional journalists who verify sources, conduct thorough investigations, and provide comprehensive context for complex issues. The editorial process ensures accuracy and accountability often lacking in less regulated media. Furthermore, the physical format of newspapers encourages sustained, focused reading without the constant distractions characterizing digital platforms. Additionally, established newspapers have built reputations over decades, providing readers with trusted sources whose credibility can be assessed based on historical performance.

On the other hand, advocates for alternative media argue that digital platforms offer superior accessibility, timeliness, and diversity. The rationale behind this view is that online news provides instant updates about developing situations, whereas newspapers inevitably report yesterday's events. Evidence for this view can be seen in the fact that digital media enables readers to access global sources, perspectives, and specialized coverage that local newspapers cannot match. Moreover, multimedia elements—videos, interactive graphics, and hyperlinks—enhance understanding in ways print cannot replicate. The ability to customize news feeds and follow specific topics or writers allows personalized news experiences suited to individual interests and needs.

Having considered both perspectives, I believe digital media offers superior overall value for contemporary news consumption. While I acknowledge the validity of newspapers' journalistic standards, I am inclined to believe that reputable digital outlets maintain equally rigorous practices while providing additional benefits of immediacy, multimedia presentation, and global access. Though I recognize the importance of source credibility, my position aligns more closely with the view that in today's interconnected world, digital platforms' advantages outweigh newspapers' traditional benefits for most readers.

Example 6: Urban Planning

Topic: Some people think that governments should invest more in public transportation rather than building new roads, while others believe both are equally important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (289 words):

The debate over infrastructure investment priorities remains contentious among urban planners and policymakers. This essay will examine both perspectives before determining which approach better serves modern urban needs.

Those who advocate prioritizing public transportation argue that enhanced transit systems address multiple urban challenges simultaneously. This argument gains credibility from the fact that efficient metro, bus, and rail networks reduce traffic congestion, lower carbon emissions, and improve air quality. Furthermore, public transportation promotes social equity by ensuring mobility for citizens who cannot afford private vehicles, including students, elderly people, and low-income workers. From this perspective, investment in comprehensive transit systems also encourages denser urban development, reducing suburban sprawl and its associated environmental costs. Cities like Tokyo and Singapore exemplify how prioritizing public transit can maintain mobility despite high population density.

Conversely, proponents of continued road development contend that road infrastructure remains essential for economic vitality and practical accessibility. The rationale behind this view is that road networks facilitate freight transport, emergency services, and access to areas where public transit proves economically unfeasible. Moreover, in many regions, particularly suburban and rural areas, private vehicles remain the only practical transportation option. Adequate road maintenance and strategic expansion prevent economic losses caused by congestion and facilitate regional connectivity that rail or bus networks cannot efficiently provide.

In my view, while I acknowledge the validity of both infrastructure types serving important functions, I tend to favor the view that public transportation deserves priority in urban contexts where population density makes it viable. Despite these advantages of road infrastructure, the environmental, social, and space-efficiency benefits of public transit outweigh road expansion advantages in cities. The ideal solution lies in prioritizing public transit investment in urban centers while maintaining essential road infrastructure where alternatives remain impractical.

Want to practice Discussion Essays with instant AI feedback? Try IELTS Writing AI to check your essays, get band scores, and receive personalized suggestions for improvement.

Example 7: Childhood Development

Topic: Some people believe that children should be given homework every day, while others think they should have more free time after school. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (284 words):

Views diverge considerably regarding childhood education practices, particularly regarding homework. Both viewpoints offer reasoning worthy of consideration.

Advocates of daily homework maintain that regular practice reinforces classroom learning and develops essential study habits. This stems from the belief that homework provides opportunities for students to consolidate new concepts, identify areas requiring clarification, and develop time management and self-discipline skills. Furthermore, consistent academic engagement prevents knowledge loss and ensures students remain academically challenged. This position is supported by the fact that this structure prepares children for future educational demands and workplace expectations where self-directed work proves essential. Countries with strong academic performance often incorporate substantial homework into their educational systems.

However, those opposing daily homework emphasize children's developmental needs beyond academics. The underlying assumption is that after spending six to eight hours in structured school environments, children require time for physical activity, creative play, family interaction, and rest. From this perspective, these activities are not merely recreational but rather crucial for emotional development, physical health, and social skill acquisition. Excessive homework can create stress, diminish intrinsic motivation for learning, and reduce time for activities that foster well-rounded development. Moreover, homework often disadvantages children from less educated families who cannot provide academic support, thereby exacerbating educational inequalities.

From my perspective, though I recognize the importance of academic reinforcement, a balanced approach proves most beneficial. Having considered both perspectives, I believe that while some homework serves valuable reinforcement purposes, daily assignments should be moderate and age-appropriate, gradually increasing as children mature. Despite understanding both positions, young children particularly benefit more from unstructured play and exploration than from formal academic work beyond school hours. Ultimately, the most balanced approach provides sufficient practice to support learning without overwhelming children.

Example 8: Globalization & Culture

Topic: Some people believe that globalization is beneficial for developing countries, while others think it damages local cultures and economies. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (287 words):

The issue of globalization's impact on developing nations has sparked considerable discussion. Opinions are divided on whether international integration benefits or harms developing countries, and each viewpoint offers compelling arguments.

Supporters of globalization argue that international integration provides developing countries with unprecedented opportunities for economic growth and modernization. This argument gains credibility from the fact that access to global markets enables export-led development, attracting foreign investment that creates employment and transfers technology. Furthermore, globalization facilitates knowledge exchange, exposing developing nations to advanced practices in healthcare, education, and governance. Evidence for this view can be seen in countries like South Korea and Singapore, which transformed from developing to developed economies largely through embracing global trade and investment.

Conversely, critics of globalization contend that international integration often exploits developing countries while undermining their cultural identities and economic sovereignty. The rationale behind this view is that multinational corporations frequently extract resources and profits from poor nations while providing minimal local benefit beyond low-wage employment. Moreover, global market pressures force developing countries to prioritize export crops over food security and to implement policies favoring international investors at the expense of local welfare. Additionally, this perspective rests on the premise that the dominance of Western media and consumer goods erodes traditional practices, languages, and values, representing irreplaceable loss of human diversity.

In my view, while I acknowledge the validity of both perspectives, globalization's impact depends largely on how it is managed. Having considered both perspectives, I believe that while international integration offers genuine benefits, these advantages materialize only when developing countries maintain sufficient autonomy to protect local interests. My position aligns more closely with the view that a nuanced understanding requires acknowledging both opportunities and risks. The ideal solution lies in selective engagement that captures economic opportunities while preserving cultural identity and preventing exploitation.

Example 9: Health & Lifestyle

Topic: Some people think that physical exercise is more important for health, while others believe that a good diet is more crucial. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (285 words):

There is ongoing debate about whether exercise or diet plays a more crucial role in maintaining health. While both factors are important, this essay will examine both perspectives before determining their relative significance.

Those emphasizing exercise argue that regular physical activity provides comprehensive health benefits extending beyond weight management. This position is supported by the fact that exercise strengthens cardiovascular function, builds bone density, enhances mental health, and boosts immune system effectiveness. Furthermore, physical activity regulates metabolism, improves sleep quality, and reduces risk of chronic diseases including diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. From this perspective, the psychological benefits—stress reduction, mood improvement, and increased energy—cannot be achieved through diet alone, making exercise the foundation of health that nutrition alone cannot provide.

On the other hand, proponents of dietary primacy contend that nutrition fundamentally determines health outcomes more directly than exercise. The rationale behind this view is that the saying "you cannot out-exercise a bad diet" reflects the reality that dietary choices impact every bodily function and that exercise cannot compensate for poor nutrition. Moreover, adequate intake of essential nutrients, vitamins, and minerals proves critical for cellular function, immune response, and disease prevention. This stems from the belief that diet directly affects inflammation levels, hormonal balance, and digestive health—factors that exercise influences less directly. Evidence for this view can be seen in many health conditions stemming primarily from nutritional deficiencies or excesses rather than insufficient physical activity.

Having considered both perspectives, I believe both elements are essential and their separation creates a false dichotomy. While I recognize the importance of both components, I am inclined to believe that if forced to choose, diet's importance slightly exceeds exercise, as nutrition affects every bodily process continuously. However, the ideal solution lies in integrating both components for optimal health.

Example 10: Crime & Punishment

Topic: Some people believe that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences, while others think there are better alternative ways. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Model Answer (276 words):

The debate over crime reduction strategies remains contentious between those advocating punitive measures and those supporting alternative strategies. Both positions merit careful consideration as they reflect different philosophies of justice and effectiveness.

Proponents of longer sentences argue that extended incarceration serves multiple purposes. The underlying assumption is that lengthy imprisonment incapacitates offenders, preventing them from committing additional crimes during confinement. Furthermore, harsh penalties deter potential criminals who might otherwise risk illegal activity. The rationale behind this view is that certainty of serious consequences discourages criminal behavior. Moreover, supporters of this view emphasize that severe punishment satisfies justice requirements and provides closure for victims, thereby maintaining public confidence in legal systems.

However, critics of punitive approaches argue that longer sentences often prove counterproductive. This position is supported by the fact that research demonstrates that imprisonment, particularly extended incarceration, increases recidivism rates rather than reducing them. Evidence for this view can be seen in prison environments that expose offenders to criminal networks while providing limited rehabilitation opportunities. Moreover, lengthy sentences impose enormous financial costs without producing corresponding safety benefits. The opposing perspective emphasizes that alternative approaches—including education programs, mental health treatment, and restorative justice initiatives—address root causes of criminal behavior more effectively. Countries emphasizing rehabilitation over punishment, such as Norway, achieve significantly lower recidivism rates.

From my perspective, while I acknowledge the validity of consequences for serious crimes, I tend to favor the view that over-reliance on lengthy imprisonment proves both ineffective and wasteful. Having considered both perspectives, I believe the most successful crime reduction strategy combines proportionate punishment with comprehensive rehabilitation programs. A nuanced understanding requires acknowledging that society benefits more from reformed individuals who reintegrate successfully.

Summary and Next Steps

This article presents 10 high-quality Discussion Essay responses covering diverse topics from work and education to health and crime. The highlighted expressions demonstrate versatile language patterns for presenting balanced arguments while articulating clear personal positions.

Key Takeaways:

· Balanced discussion is essential—give equal attention to both perspectives before stating your opinion

· Objective presentation demonstrates sophisticated thinking, even when discussing views you disagree with

· Clear signposting phrases (from the Useful Expressions section) improve coherence and guide readers through your argument

· Strategic positioning of your opinion in the conclusion shows analytical maturity

· Acknowledging complexity rather than oversimplifying issues strengthens your argument

How to Use These Expressions:

· Study the bolded phrases in context to understand their function

· Practice substituting topic-specific vocabulary while maintaining the structural patterns

· Create your own example sentences using these frameworks

· Gradually integrate these expressions into your writing naturally

Next in Series:

The next article will focus on Problem-Solution Essays, where you'll learn expressions for identifying issues, analyzing causes, and proposing effective solutions.

Continue developing your Task 2 skills by practicing regularly with authentic topics and timing yourself to build both quality and speed.