IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1506 - Some companies sponsor sports as a way to advertise themselves
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some companies sponsor sports as a way to advertise themselves. Some people think it is a good trend, while others think there are disadvantages to this.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1: [Opinion: Brands sponsoring sports is a good trend]
Corporate sponsorship in sports is a common trend in modern times. Many indicate that it is a good trend, while others are of the opinion that there are drawbacks to this. This essay will discuss both points of view and argue in favour of the benefits of brands sponsoring sports.
On the one hand, when a company sponsors sports and individual athletes, it can increase interference. That is to say that the company often expects favour and if the event is sponsored by a big company, then it is likely that they will try to interfere in the working of the event. They, for instance, want to arrange the schedule of the tournament according to their design or shoot advertisements with athletes in the middle of the event, which in turn, translates the tournament into a marketing event.
On the other hand, without sponsorship from companies, many sporting events may not take place. It is difficult for many organizers to meet expenditures, so it is important that companies assist these events so that they can continue to entertain the public. For example, there are many events like the Olympics or World Cup Football which would not be successful without the funding of big corporations. Moreover, corporate sponsorships are crucial for attracting young talents and building more sports facilities all around the country. Without their money and support, spreading sports and making it popular among young people would have been much more difficult.
In my opinion, I feel that financing sports by companies and big brands is a positive trend. This is because sponsorship is the mutual benefit of both parties. In simple words, sponsors often provide athletes with clothing and equipment free of charge for advertising purposes.
In conclusion, corporate sports sponsorship has both positive and negative aspects. However, after a thorough analysis of both sides, I believe that sponsorship is a positive trend because it reaps advantages for both parties and spreads the popularity of sports all around the world.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay
Essay Question:
Some companies sponsor sports as a way to advertise themselves. Some people think it is a good trend, while others think there are disadvantages to this.
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Essay Type: Discussion Essay.
The main question of this IELTS Essay:
Is corporate sponsorship in sports beneficial, or does it have more drawbacks?
Why Companies Sponsoring Sports Could be a Good Trend:
Increased financial support for sports:
Corporate sponsorship provides significant funding for sports teams and events, ensuring better infrastructure, training facilities, and resources for athletes. For example, global brands like Nike, Pepsi and so on sponsor major sporting events, allowing teams to invest in high-quality training and equipment.
Boosts popularity and engagement in sports:
Corporate involvement increases media coverage, making sports more popular and attracting more viewers and participants. For instance, the English Premier League, heavily sponsored by corporations, has a massive global following, encouraging young athletes to pursue careers in sports.
Economic benefits for businesses and athletes:
Companies benefit from increased brand visibility, while athletes and teams receive financial incentives and endorsements. For example, top athletes like Cristiano Ronaldo and Serena Williams earn millions through sponsorship deals, promoting both their sport and the brands they represent.
Encourages sports development at all levels:
Smaller sports clubs and grassroots initiatives receive funding, allowing talented but underprivileged athletes to access better facilities. For instance, local football clubs in developing countries receive sponsorships from beverage companies, enabling them to train young players effectively.
Creates job opportunities and economic growth:
Sports sponsorship leads to more job opportunities in marketing, event management, and media, contributing to overall economic development. For example, the FIFA World Cup sponsorships create thousands of temporary and permanent jobs across multiple industries.
Disadvantages of Companies Sponsoring Sports:
Excessive commercialisation of sports:
Corporate sponsorship often prioritises profits over the integrity of sports, turning sporting events into marketing spectacles. For example, some tournaments focus more on advertising and brand promotions than on the actual game, affecting the authenticity of the sport.
Unethical companies influencing sports:
Companies with questionable reputations, such as those involved in tobacco, alcohol, or gambling industries, may use sports sponsorships to improve their image. For instance, cigarette and betting companies have historically sponsored major sports events, indirectly promoting unhealthy or risky behaviours.
Pressure on athletes to endorse brands:
Athletes may be forced to promote brands they do not personally support, compromising their integrity and focus on sports. For example, some athletes have faced backlash for endorsing fast food companies, despite advocating for a healthy lifestyle.
Financial dependence on sponsors:
Sports organisations that rely too heavily on sponsorships may face financial instability if a major sponsor withdraws support. For example, several football clubs have struggled financially after losing major corporate sponsors due to economic downturns.
Unfair advantage for wealthier teams and clubs:
Richer teams attract more sponsorships, leading to financial inequality and an uneven playing field in competitive sports. For example, well-funded football clubs can afford top-tier players, while smaller clubs struggle to remain competitive.
Model Answer 2: [Opinion: Brands sponsoring sports is NOT a good trend and has many disadvantages]
Sponsoring sports events as a means of advertising has become increasingly common among companies. While some individuals view this trend positively, others argue that it brings about certain drawbacks. In this essay, I will explore both perspectives before presenting my own opinion. Personally, I contend that while sports sponsorship may provide visibility for companies, it can undermine the integrity of sports and lead to commercialization.
Firstly, proponents of sports sponsorship argue that it benefits both companies and athletes. By associating their brand with popular sporting events, companies can reach a wider audience and enhance their brand recognition. For instance, major sports tournaments like the FIFA World Cup attract millions of viewers worldwide, providing ample exposure for sponsors. Moreover, sponsorship deals often provide financial support to athletes, enabling them to pursue their sporting careers and achieve success.
However, detractors of sports sponsorship highlight the negative impact it can have on the purity of sports. When companies sponsor events or athletes, they often expect a return on their investment, which may compromise the integrity of the sport. For example, athletes may feel pressured to endorse products or behave in a certain way to please their sponsors, rather than focusing solely on their performance. This commercialization of sports can diminish the authenticity and spirit of competition.
In conclusion, while sports sponsorship may offer benefits such as financial support and increased visibility for companies, it also poses risks to the integrity of sports. As a result, I believe that excessive commercialization through sponsorship deals is not conducive to the true essence of sportsmanship and fair competition.
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