Plan this opinion essay about language with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Body language is more important than words in communication.
To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
Your answer stays on this page only. Copy it before you leave.
Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
Some people claim that body language matters more than words in communication. I partly agree, since non-verbal signals are powerful, but I do not think they are more important in every situation.
There are strong arguments for the importance of body language. Facial expressions, gestures and tone of voice reveal feelings that words may hide. A person may say that they are fine while looking away and speaking quietly, and listeners will usually believe the signals rather than the sentence. First impressions are also largely visual: in a job interview, a firm handshake, eye contact and a confident posture create an impression within seconds, before the candidate has explained anything. Body language works across languages as well. A smile or a nod is understood almost everywhere, which is why tourists can communicate basic needs without speaking the local language.
On the other hand, words are essential for precise meaning. Body language can show that someone is happy or angry, but it cannot explain the reason, give directions, describe a scientific theory or sign a contract. Complex ideas, facts and instructions can only be expressed in language. In many forms of communication, such as emails, letters and phone calls, body language is absent or limited, and the whole message has to be carried by the words. Furthermore, gestures depend on context and culture; raising a thumb is positive in some places and rude in others, so non-verbal cues can be misinterpreted.
In my view, the two work together, and their relative importance depends on the situation. Body language is more significant for emotions and relationships, whereas words are more important for information and detail.
In conclusion, body language is a powerful part of communication, but it cannot replace words, so it is wrong to say that it is more important in all cases.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| non-verbal communication | communication without words |
| facial expression | look on the face |
| eye contact | looking into someone's eyes |
| convey | communicate |
| first impression | opinion formed on meeting |
| tone of voice | how voice sounds |
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