IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - Write an essay on the following
IELTS.WORK Free Online Writing Practice # 1713328305
Task:Writing Task 2: Write an essay on the following topic:
"The role of social norms in shaping behavior."
In this essay, you should:
- Define and explain what is meant by 'social norms'
- Discuss how social norms influence individuals' behavior
- Give examples to support your discussion
- Consider whether social norms are beneficial or harmful overall.
Model Answer:
Social norms, which refer to the unwritten rules and customs that govern behavior within a society, play a significant role in shaping human actions and decisions. These informal guidelines, which can range from simple etiquette to more complex expectations about how individuals should act, serve as powerful forces that shape our thoughts, attitudes, and behaviors. In this essay, we will explore the impact of social norms on individuals' actions and assess whether they are primarily beneficial or harmful overall.
One of the most apparent ways in which social norms influence human behavior is through conformity, a psychological phenomenon where people adjust their actions to align with the expectations of others. Conforming to social norms can provide several benefits. For instance, by adhering to societal standards, individuals can avoid negative consequences such as social ostracism or rejection. Additionally, conforming to norms can foster a sense of belonging and community, as individuals feel connected to their peers through shared behavioral patterns.
However, social norms can also have detrimental effects on human behavior. For example, the prevalent societal expectation for men to display strength and emotional stoicism may discourage them from seeking help or expressing vulnerability. This adherence to a rigid gender stereotype can hinder personal growth and perpetuate mental health issues that are often left unaddressed. Moreover, social norms can reinforce prejudices and discrimination within a society, as they shape individuals' attitudes and perceptions towards specific groups of people.
In conclusion, while social norms play an undeniable role in shaping human behavior by promoting conformity and fostering a sense of belonging, they may also contribute to detrimental outcomes such as the perpetuation of harmful stereotypes and suppression of personal growth. As individuals continue to challenge and redefine societal expectations, it is essential to critically evaluate the impact of social norms on human behavior and strive for a world that encourages understanding, empathy, and authenticity over rigid conformity.
Scoring:
Based on IELTS scoring standards:
- Task Response:
8 (The essay fully addresses all aspects of the task, demonstrating a comprehensive understanding of the topic.)
- Coherence and Cohesion:
8 (The essay is well organized and structured, with clear logical progression from one point to another. The use of cohesive devices such as signposting, transition words, and repetition is excellent throughout the text.)
- Lexical Resource:
7.5 (The essay demonstrates a broad range of vocabulary, often with some less common or idiomatic expressions used effectively for variety and to convey nuance. However, there may be a few instances where less commonly used words or phrases may not be fully understood or slightly inaccurate.)
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy:
8 (The essay is generally free of grammatical errors, with a high level of accuracy in the use of tenses, word forms, and sentence structures. There may be only minor or occasional lapses in grammar.)
- Presentation of Writing:
7 (The essay is presented on the page with appropriate formatting, including spacing between sentences and paragraphs, as well as punctuation and capitalization. However, there may be minor formatting errors or inconsistencies in the presentation.)
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