Many people feel that students should learn from online materials, while others feel that it is better to use printed materials.Â
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
đź“ŚÂ Note: This question appeared in the IELTS Writing exam on 6th September, 2025.Â
2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions – Click to View All
Band 9 Sample Answer:
While some people are of the opinion that students should primarily learn from online materials, others argue that printed resources are more effective for academic growth. I side with the latter view.
On one hand, there can be some reasons why people advocate the use of online learning materials. First of all, digital resources are more accessible and cost-effective. Students can download e-books, watch lectures, or join online courses at little or no cost, which makes education more inclusive. In addition, online materials are often interactive, offering videos, quizzes, and hyperlinks that can enhance understanding in ways static books cannot. For example, learners studying biology can watch live simulations of cell division, which makes complex concepts easier to grasp. Finally, carrying digital devices is more convenient than handling heavy textbooks, particularly for university students who often study multiple subjects simultaneously.
On the other hand, I feel that it is more beneficial for students to rely on printed materials. One major advantage of books is that they promote better concentration. Research has shown that students tend to retain more information when reading printed texts because they are less distracted compared to using screens, which often come with notifications and the temptation of social media. Moreover, books provide a sense of permanence and reliability. Unlike online resources, which can be edited or removed without warning, printed materials undergo thorough editorial processes and therefore maintain academic credibility. Furthermore, excessive screen time can negatively affect students’ health, causing eye strain and sleep disturbances, while reading from paper poses no such risks.
In conclusion, although online materials offer convenience and interactive learning opportunities, I believe that printed resources remain superior because they enhance concentration, reliability, and overall well-being. For these reasons, students are likely to achieve greater academic success through traditional books.
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Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Band Descriptors:
- Task Response: Both views are fully discussed with clear arguments, examples, and a well-stated opinion.
- Coherence & Cohesion: Logical flow, clear paragraphing, and appropriate use of cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary (e.g., “inclusive,” “permanence,” “credibility,” “academic growth”).
- Grammatical Range & Accuracy: Complex and error-free sentence structures, varied grammar forms.
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