Scientists say that in the future humanity will speak the same language. Do you think this is a positive or negative social development?

Same questionCompare 3 different answers (Band 7–8)

Sample Response

1

Regarding the future of language useOn the matter of language learning, many linguists argue that one language will be used as an international language in the future. Although this development is sometimes believed to be a threat to global language diversity, there are reasonable grounds for believing that it is of greater benefitreasonable grounds that it is of greater benefits to humanity, including easier international communicationincluding the ease of international communication and the chance for each country to develop a strong intellectual labour force.

2

There is a common belief that the use of one language as a lingua franca may bring minority languages to the verge of extinction. There is, however, clear evidence thatwhy such a claim is an exaggeration. In reality, despite the role of English as a common language in many countries around the worldacross most countries in the world, less common languages are currently well preservedare being preserved well at present. This can be seen in the case of the Irish language, which was spoken by as fewlittle as 5% of the population of Ireland in the latter half of the 20 th century. This language is now increasingly popular in Ireland as a result of the efforts of the Irish government to promote its use in recent years. Another important point is that the popularity of one international language does not necessarily mean the declining use of other languagesthe waning usage of other languages. An excellent example of this is that English is spoken as a second languageEnglish is being spoken as the second language in many countries where the mother tongues are still dominant in everyday communication.

3

On the other hand, the universal use of one languagethe universality of one language is of great benefit to the development of the world. The primary reason is that in today’s context of globalisation and international integration, the use of one common language promotes mutual understanding between those who come from different geographical and cultural backgrounds. As a result, international trade may grow, which would benefit all nations that choose to engage in this process. Another significant reason is that when language barriers are removed, all learners may have access to a wealth of knowledge written exclusively in other languages, and they have the opportunity to become experts in a variety of areas. This may help every country to build a stronger intellectual workforce, which could act as athe catalyst for long-term global development.

4

In summary, the use of one international language is not necessarily disadvantageous. There are clear advantages toof having a universal language, such as the growth of international trade and the development of a stronger intellectual workforce in every country.

Overall assessment

Why this response received Band 8.0

The response is strongest in its sustained, logically developed case for the practical benefits of a shared language, supported by relevant examples and highly controlled expression. Its main limitation is that it treats the scenario as widespread use of an international second language rather than fully confronting a future in which humanity speaks the same language. Prioritise aligning the argument more precisely with that premise and its implications for linguistic diversity.

Band score breakdown

IELTS Writing Criteria Scores

TR

Task Response

7.5
Scoring rule

A clear positive position is developed thoroughly with relevant explanations and examples, although the response partly softens the stated scenario into use of a common second language.

Next step

Address the literal prospect of humanity speaking the same language and evaluate its consequences directly rather than relying mainly on current bilingual contexts.

CC

Coherence and Cohesion

8.0
Scoring rule

Ideas progress logically through well-focused paragraphs, with clear relationships between claims, examples, and consequences.

Next step

Make the shift from rebutting the disadvantage to presenting the positive case slightly more seamless and less signposted.

LR

Lexical Resource

7.5
Scoring rule

Vocabulary is wide and generally precise, with effective topic-specific choices despite a few awkward collocations.

Next step

Refine phrases such as 'of greater benefits' and 'waning usage' so that sophisticated vocabulary remains fully natural.

GRA

Grammatical Range and Accuracy

8.0
Scoring rule

A wide range of complex structures is used accurately, and the few errors do not impede communication.

Next step

Proofread comparative forms and small agreement or formatting slips to improve an already high level of control.

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IELTS Writing Task 2

Scientists say that in the future humanity will speak the same language. Do you think this is a positive or negative social development?

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