IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 696 - Some people spend their lives living close to where they were born
- Details
- Last Updated: Friday, 14 March 2025 03:19
- Written by IELTS Mentor
- Hits: 50927
IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people spend most of their lives living close to where they were born.
What might be the reasons for this?
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
In the modern world, we see that many people migrate to faraway places, but, for most parts of history, people mostly chose to live close to places where they were born and bred. There could be many reasons for this, and it has both advantages and disadvantages that this essay will deal with.
While there could be many reasons behind people's desire to live close to their birthplace, the main reason is that it offers them a certain sense of security and comfort in their effort to survive, in an otherwise unknown world that is full of prejudiced thoughts, suspicion, hatred and animosity. People inherit property and lands where their ancestors lived, and this is another reason so many people feel connected to their birthplace where they know people and the culture to live as an integral part of society.
Now, while this sense of security and comfort in itself is an advantage of living close to someone’s birthplace in a more broad and abstract sense, some of its more tangible benefits may include the opportunity to live close to the people, we love and care for. Another advantage is that because of living close to a place of our origin for a long time, we feel that we know its air, water and landscape so well that we can rely on these things for our physical and mental well-being.
Of course, it has some disadvantages too. One such disadvantage would be that people, close to us, might interfere in our private matters, on and off, which can be a tad irritating at times. In fact, I have seen how one of my uncles moved far away from his birthplace because his in-laws kept meddling in his private matters against his wish. Besides, living close to where someone is born, which could also be his comfort zone, for too long might make someone a bit too lazy and scared to try new things in order to improve the quality of life and explore new opportunities.
In conclusion, most people choose to live close to where they were born because it gives them a sense of security and makes them a part of society in which they blend quite well. This can have both merits and demerits that we should consider carefully before choosing to live in that place or leave it for another place.
Model Answer 2:
It is a common phenomenon that some individuals spend their entire lives residing in the vicinity of their birthplace. There are several reasons for this, including attachment to their roots, familiarity with the local environment, and a sense of belongingness to their community. In this essay, I will explore these reasons and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of living in the same place for a prolonged period.
One of the primary reasons for living in the same area is the emotional connection to the place of birth. People feel a strong sense of attachment to their birthplace, which is closely related to their identity and cultural heritage. This sense of belongingness stems from the shared memories, experiences, and traditions that the individual shares with the community. Moreover, familiarity with the local environment, including the climate, geography, and social norms, can also influence the decision to remain in the same place.
Living in the same location for an extended period can have both advantages and disadvantages. One of the advantages is that individuals can develop a strong support network, including family and friends, which can be essential in times of need. Moreover, living in the same place can provide individuals with a sense of security and stability, as they are familiar with the surroundings and can navigate the area with ease.
On the other hand, there are some disadvantages to living in the same location. For instance, individuals may experience a lack of diversity, which can limit their exposure to new ideas and perspectives. Moreover, individuals may miss out on opportunities for personal and professional growth that may be available in other places.
In conclusion, while living close to someone's birthplace for an extended period has its advantages, such as emotional connection, stability, and a strong support network, it also has its disadvantages, such as a lack of diversity and limited opportunities for personal and professional growth. Therefore, individuals should carefully consider their options and make an informed decision about whether to stay in the same place or explore new opportunities elsewhere.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
Some people spend most of their lives living close to where they were born.
What might be the reasons for this?
What are the advantages and disadvantages?
Essay Type:
Double Questions Essay (Cause + Advantages and Disadvantages).
Main Question of This Essay:
A) Why do some people spend most of their lives living close to where they were born?
B) What are the advantages and disadvantages of doing so?
Reasons why some people spend most of their lives living close to where they were born:
1. Family and social connections:
For many, the decision to stay close to their birthplace is motivated by a strong attachment to family and community. Being near loved ones provides a sense of emotional support and connection, which can be difficult to leave behind. For example, someone may choose to stay in their hometown to care for aging parents or to raise their children in the same community where they grew up.
2. Familiarity and comfort:
Some individuals prefer the comfort of the familiar, whether it’s the local environment, culture, or routine. Familiarity offers a sense of security, reducing anxiety about the unknown. For instance, someone who has always lived in the same area might feel overwhelmed by the prospect of moving to an unfamiliar city or country.
3. Financial constraints:
Moving to a new location, especially to a more expensive area, may not be financially feasible for everyone. People may choose to remain close to where they were born because it is more affordable to stay in their hometown. For example, a person may find that they can afford a house in their childhood city, while living in a major city would require more financial sacrifice.
4. Career limitations:
Some regions may offer limited career opportunities, making it difficult for individuals to find employment elsewhere. People may stay in their birthplace because the local job market is familiar and more accessible. For example, a teacher may remain in a small town because there are fewer teaching jobs in larger cities.
5. Cultural and societal expectations:
In some cultures, there is strong social pressure to remain in the place of one's birth. Family traditions, social norms, and expectations may encourage individuals to stay in the same location. For example, in rural areas, there may be a cultural expectation to stay within the community and contribute to its growth.
Advantages of living close to where one was born:
1. Emotional support and stability:
Living near family and friends offers a consistent emotional support system. People often feel more secure when surrounded by familiar faces and places. For instance, someone might feel more at ease knowing that their friends and family are nearby, especially during times of personal crisis.
2. Strong community ties:
Remaining close to one's birthplace allows for the continuation of community bonds, where individuals know their neighbors and can participate in local activities. For example, someone who has lived in the same town for years may have deep roots in their community, contributing to local events or supporting nearby businesses.
3. Lower cost of living:
Many places, especially small towns or rural areas, offer a lower cost of living compared to large cities. People who choose to stay in their birthplace can benefit from more affordable housing, transportation, and daily expenses. For example, a family may be able to live comfortably in a small town, whereas they would struggle to afford similar housing in a big city.
Disadvantages of living close to where one was born:
1. Limited personal and professional growth:
Staying in the same place for most of one’s life can sometimes hinder opportunities for personal and career development. The local job market may be limited, and individuals may miss out on opportunities for career advancement or higher wages available in other regions. For example, someone working in a small town might have limited chances to advance their career without moving to a larger city.
2. Lack of exposure to diversity:
Remaining in one location can limit exposure to different cultures, ideas, and experiences. Moving to a new place can introduce individuals to a broader range of perspectives, helping to expand their worldview. For instance, someone who lives in the same community for years may not encounter different cultures or lifestyles unless they travel elsewhere.
3. Missed opportunities for new experiences:
Staying close to one’s birthplace can result in missing out on new adventures and experiences. Exploring different environments can contribute to personal growth and a deeper understanding of the world. For example, someone who never leaves their hometown may miss the chance to experience the excitement of living in a bustling city or traveling to exotic destinations.
Sample Answer 3:
Many people choose to spend most parts of their lives living close to their birthplace, and this phenomenon can be attributed to various factors. This essay will explore the reasons for this trend and discuss the advantages and disadvantages of staying in one's hometown.
One major reason why people tend to stay close to their birthplace is the familiarity and comfort that comes with living in a familiar environment. They have established social connections, family ties, and a sense of belonging to the community, which can be compelling reasons to live there. In small, close-knit towns and villages, for example, individuals often have strong bonds with their neighbours and childhood friends. These relationships create a support system and a sense of security, making the idea of moving away daunting for many.
Moreover, practical considerations such as job opportunities, cost of living, and access to essential services can also influence the decision to stay in one's hometown. In regions with limited economic prospects, for instance, individuals may find it challenging to pursue career opportunities elsewhere, leading them to prioritise stability and familiarity over relocation.
Staying close to one's birthplace offers several advantages. Firstly, it allows for the preservation of cultural traditions and customs, fostering a sense of identity and heritage. People living in their hometowns can actively participate in local festivals, events, and celebrations, keeping the local culture alive. Additionally, staying in one's hometown can lead to a stronger social support network, as individuals have long-established relationships with family and friends. This support system can be invaluable during challenging times and enhances overall well-being.
However, remaining in one's birthplace can also have some disadvantages. One of the main drawbacks is the limited exposure to diverse experiences and perspectives. Living in the same community for an extended period may hinder personal growth and limit opportunities for new experiences and learning.
In conclusion, people often decide to spend most of their lives living close to their birthplace due to the familiarity, comfort, and strong social connections offered by their hometowns. While this decision has many significant advantages, it may also lead to limited opportunities for personal growth and exposure to diverse experiences.
Report