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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe that international sporting events are the ideal opportunity to show the world the qualities of the hosting nation. Others believe that these events are mainly a large unjustifiable expense. To what extent do you agree with this viewpoint? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example from your knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Some people believe that international sporting events are the ideal opportunity to show the world the qualities of the hosting nation. Others believe that these events are mainly a large unjustifiable expense. To what extent do you agree with this viewpoint?

International sporting events, such as the Olympics or World Cup, are often seen as a chance for the host nation to display its virtues to the world. While some argue that these events are a costly extravagance, I believe they offer significant benefits to the hosting nation.

On one hand, hosting international sporting events involves substantial expenses, including the construction of stadiums, infrastructure development, and security measures. Critics argue that the resources invested in these events could be better used to address pressing social and economic issues, such as poverty and healthcare. For example, the 2016 Rio Olympics in Brazil faced criticism for its high costs and the displacement of local residents due to the construction of sporting venues.

On the other hand, international sporting events provide numerous advantages to the host nation. They offer an opportunity to showcase the country's culture, history, and hospitality to a global audience. This can boost tourism and trade, leading to economic growth and job creation. For instance, the 2008 Beijing Olympics not only showcased China's organizational capabilities but also led to a surge in tourism and foreign investment in the country.

Moreover, hosting such events can foster national pride and unity among citizens. The sense of achievement and international recognition can have a positive impact on the morale of the population. For instance, the 2012 London Olympics brought together people from diverse backgrounds and instilled a sense of national pride and cohesion.

In conclusion, while international sporting events may pose financial challenges, their potential to promote tourism, trade, and national unity cannot be overlooked. When managed effectively, these events can serve as a platform for the host nation to exhibit its strengths and capabilities to the world.

[Words: 270]

Model Essay #2:

Some people believe that international sporting events are the ideal opportunity to show the world the qualities of the hosting nation. Others believe that these events are mainly a large unjustifiable expense. To what extent do you agree with this viewpoint?

International sporting events, such as the Olympics or World Cup, have been viewed as a prime opportunity for the host nation to display its virtues to the world. However, there is a growing belief that these events entail exorbitant costs that outweigh the benefits. In my opinion, the expenses associated with hosting international sporting events often outweigh the potential advantages.

Firstly, hosting such events requires massive investments in infrastructure, security, and promotion, which can place a significant strain on the host nation's economy. These funds could be channeled towards more pressing needs, such as education and healthcare. For example, the 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia incurred a staggering cost of over $50 billion, leading to public outcry over the misallocation of resources.

Furthermore, the long-term benefits of hosting international sporting events are often overstated. While there may be a short-term boost in tourism and international attention, these effects are typically temporary. Once the event concludes, the host nation may struggle to sustain the newly constructed infrastructure and may face challenges in utilizing the facilities effectively. For instance, the 2004 Athens Olympics left Greece burdened with underutilized stadiums and a heavy debt, contributing to the country's financial crisis in subsequent years.

Additionally, the process of preparing for international sporting events can lead to social and environmental consequences. Displacement of local communities, environmental degradation, and increased security measures can have adverse effects on the host nation and its citizens. The 2016 Rio Olympics faced backlash for displacing residents and exacerbating social inequalities in the city.

In conclusion, while international sporting events offer a platform for nations to showcase their strengths, the substantial costs and limited long-term benefits raise questions about the justification of hosting such events. It is crucial for host nations to carefully consider the financial, social, and environmental implications before committing to these endeavors.

[Words: 290]

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