IELTS Writing Task 2 with sample answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write at least 250 words.
Many companies sponsor sports as a way of advertising themselves Some people think this is good for the world of sport, while others think it is a negative
Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Sample Answer:
The increasing trend of companies sponsoring sport is a contentious issue which has been the subject of much debate. While some people believe that sponsorship by private companies can be beneficial to sport, others think that it has a detrimental effect. In this essay, I will look at both sides of the argument before expressing my own opinion.
On the one hand, there is no doubt that sponsorship of sport by companies can be beneficial. Firstly, it can provide much needed financial support for sports teams, clubs and events which may otherwise struggle to survive. This can lead to increased investment in infrastructure, better training and improved equipment which can benefit those involved in sport. Secondly, it can help to raise the profile of sport, which can lead to more interest, more participants and higher levels of engagement. This can help to make sport more popular and accessible to everyone.
On the other hand, there are those who believe that sponsorship of sport by companies is a negative influence. Firstly, it can lead to commercialisation in sport, whereby sports teams and clubs become nothing more than a platform for advertising and marketing. This can lead to a focus on money and profit rather than the actual sport itself. Secondly, there is a risk that it can lead to the exploitation of athletes, who may be pressured to promote certain products in order to secure sponsorship. This can be especially dangerous if the products are unhealthy or of dubious quality.
In my opinion, I believe that sponsorship of sport by companies can be beneficial, provided that it is managed in the right way. It can be an important source of funding for sports teams and events, and it can also help to promote and raise the profile of sport. However, it is important that it does not lead to commercialisation or the exploitation of athletes, and that the focus remains on the sport itself.