IELTS Academic Writing - Task 2

The internet allows us to stay connected with each other no matter where we are. On the other hand, it also isolates us and encourages people not to socialise.

To what extent do you agree or disagree with these statements?

The internet has made the world smaller and has allowed users to keep in touch with each other irrespective of their location. Wi-fi, 3G and 4G technology now allows users to be logged in at all times.

People have a need to be connected with their family and friends and the internet serves this purpose. It allows us to communicate with people who are living or studying abroad and keep up-to-date with their daily lives through updates and photos. This is a great improvement and benefit when compared to the past, before the internet existed. People could only keep in touch by letters or expensive international phone calls. It was easy to lose touch with someone and it put a strain on relationships.

On the other hand, the internet does not encourage real human interaction. People do not make an effort to go out and meet new people because they have all their social life nicely packaged on a small, portable device. It is much easier, faster and less intimidating to stay at home sending messages rather than trying to get outside your comfort zone. It is for this reason that many believe that the internet isolates people.

Globalisation has meant that many more family members and friends are scattered around the globe. It is a blessing to be able to maintain contact with the people that matter the most. However, in the case of making new friends and establishing new contacts, I don't think it's a wise idea to do so via the internet.

Question taken from The Official Cambridge Guide to IELTS for Academic & General Training p.129