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IELTS Free Online Writing Practice - The role of social norms in shaping behavior

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Task 2 Topic: The role of social norms in shaping behavior

In today's world, it is a well-known fact that social norms play a significant role in the way individuals behave. This topic invites candidates to discuss the impact of social norms on human behavior and whether they believe these norms are helpful or harmful. Here's a suggested question structure:

Question: To what extent do you agree with the statement that "Social norms significantly influence our behavior, often shaping it in ways that may not necessarily be beneficial to individuals or society as a whole"? Explain your viewpoint, providing relevant examples to support your stance.

Model Answer:

It is an indisputable fact that social norms play a substantial role in shaping human behavior. While these norms can have a positive impact on individuals and society, there are instances where they may be detrimental as well. In this essay, I will argue that social norms significantly influence our actions, but the extent to which they are beneficial or harmful largely depends on their nature and the specific context in which they are applied.

On one hand, social norms can have a positive impact on human behavior. They serve as guidelines for acceptable conduct within a particular community, helping individuals navigate social situations with ease. For example, the norm of greeting others with a smile or a nod of recognition fosters a sense of unity and belonging among community members. Additionally, adhering to social norms like respecting elders, being punctual, and maintaining personal hygiene can contribute to a harmonious and orderly society.

However, there are instances where social norms may be harmful rather than helpful. For example, the traditional gender roles that dictate men should be breadwinners while women should manage household chores can limit an individual's career choices and personal fulfillment. Furthermore, certain social norms can perpetuate stereotypes, discrimination, and other negative aspects of society. In some cases, individuals may feel pressured to conform to these norms in order to avoid social ostracism or rejection.

In conclusion, it is evident that social norms play a significant role in shaping human behavior. While they can be beneficial in promoting social cohesion and maintaining orderly conduct within communities, they may also be detrimental by imposing unnecessary limitations on individuals and perpetuating harmful practices. The extent to which social norms are helpful or harmful largely depends on the specific norms and the context in which they are applied.

Score according to IELTS scoring standards:

- Task Response: 9 (The candidate has provided a comprehensive response to the question, addressing all aspects of it.)
- Coherence and Cohesion: 9 (The essay is well-structured, with a clear and logical flow of ideas, and the paragraphs are connected coherently.)
- Lexical Resource: 8.5 (The vocabulary used in the essay is diverse and sophisticated, although there may be a few repetitive phrases or words.)
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: 9 (There are no significant grammatical errors that affect the overall meaning of the text, and complex sentence structures are employed effectively.)

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