Introduction about some countries achieve international success

In recent years, some nations have prioritized building specialized facilities for elite athletes to boost their international sporting success. While this approach can lead to impressive achievements on global platforms, it often sparks debates about its broader implications. Critics argue that focusing exclusively on top-tier athletes overlooks the general population’s need for accessible sports infrastructure, potentially exacerbating health disparities. Proponents, however, claim that international success inspires national pride and promotes sports culture. Balancing investments in elite training with public access to sports facilities is critical to ensuring both excellence and widespread participation in physical activities.

Band 9 Sample Answer 

Some countries achieve international success by building specialized facilities to train top athletes instead of providing sports facilities that everyone can use.

Is it a positive or negative development?

The construction of specialized facilities for elite athletes has become a prominent strategy for many countries seeking international recognition in sports. While this approach has undeniable advantages, it also raises concerns about equity and public well-being. Whether this development is ultimately positive depends on how resources are allocated and the long-term impact on society.

One of the most significant benefits of investing in facilities for top athletes is the potential for global prestige. Success in international competitions, such as the Olympics, not only elevates a nation’s status but also fosters a sense of pride among its citizens. Specialized facilities provide athletes with the state-of-the-art equipment and training environments needed to compete at the highest level. Furthermore, these centers often attract world-class coaches, enhancing the athletes’ performance and ensuring sustainable success. Another advantage is the motivational effect such achievements can have on younger generations, inspiring them to pursue sports more seriously.

However, the drawbacks of this approach are equally compelling. Prioritizing elite training facilities often diverts funding from community-based sports programs, leaving the majority of the population without access to adequate recreational opportunities. This can lead to decreased physical activity levels, exacerbating issues such as obesity and chronic illnesses. Additionally, the exclusive focus on elite athletes may perpetuate social inequality, as only a select few benefit from these resources, while the broader population is neglected. Public sports facilities play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, health, and social cohesion, which specialized centers cannot replicate.

In my opinion, while building elite sports facilities is beneficial for achieving international success, it should not come at the expense of public access to sports. Governments should adopt a balanced approach by investing in both areas. For instance, funding could be allocated to community programs alongside elite training, ensuring that sports are accessible to all while maintaining competitive excellence.

In conclusion, constructing specialized sports facilities can enhance a nation’s global reputation and inspire future athletes, but it must be accompanied by investments in public infrastructure to avoid undermining the population’s overall health and inclusivity. A dual approach ensures that the benefits of sports are shared equitably across society.

Academic Vocabulary in the sample for some countries achieve international success

1. advantages (ədˈvɑːn.tɪdʒɪz): Benefits or favorable aspects.
   • Example: The advantages of renewable energy include sustainability and lower emissions.
2. global prestige (ˈɡləʊ.bəl prɛsˈtiːʒ): International respect or admiration.
   • Example: Hosting major events can enhance a country’s global prestige.
3. state-of-the-art (ˌsteɪt əv ði ˈɑːt): Using the latest technology or techniques.
   • Example: The laboratory is equipped with state-of-the-art machinery.
4. balanced (ˈbæl.ənst): Fair and equitable, involving all aspects equally.
   • Example: A balanced diet is essential for good health.
5. social cohesion (ˈsəʊ.ʃəl koʊˈhiːʒən): The bond or unity among members of a society.
   • Example: Public parks contribute to social cohesion by bringing people together.

Advanced Grammar Structures

1. Balanced Complex Sentences:
   • “While this approach has undeniable advantages, it also raises concerns about equity and public well-being.”
     • These sentences demonstrate contrast effectively, showcasing the ability to balance arguments.
2. Parallelism:
   • “Public sports facilities play a crucial role in promoting inclusivity, health, and social cohesion.”
     • Parallel structures enhance readability and coherence.
3. Use of Modality:
   • “Governments should adopt a balanced approach by investing in both areas.”
     • Modal verbs like “should” indicate recommendations, adding a formal tone.
4. Appositive Phrases:
   • “Success in international competitions, such as the Olympics, not only elevates a nation’s status but also fosters a sense of pride among its citizens.”
     • These phrases provide additional context, enriching the explanation.
5. Conditional Sentences:
   • “If funding is diverted solely to elite facilities, the broader population’s needs may be neglected.”
     • Conditional clauses add depth and hypothetical scenarios, enriching the argument.

Writing Format and Features for Band 9

1. Clear Introduction: The essay introduces the issue with a balanced overview and prepares the reader for the discussion.
2. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses both sides of the argument and presents a clear opinion with supporting evidence.
3. Coherence and Cohesion: Smooth transitions, such as “Furthermore” and “In conclusion,” ensure logical flow.
4. Formal Tone and Academic Vocabulary: Words like “prestige” and “state-of-the-art” elevate the response, meeting academic standards.
5. Logical Structure: Each paragraph focuses on a distinct point, contributing to the overall clarity and persuasiveness.

This essay exemplifies the requirements for a Band 9, combining sophisticated language, well-developed ideas, and advanced grammar structures.