IELTS Band 9 Essay About Some children nowadays take sports seriously while others play sports in their free time
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Some children nowadays take sports seriously while others play sports in their free time”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample Essay (Band 9)
Some children nowadays take sports seriously while others play sports in their free time.
Is this a positive or negative development?
In contemporary society, some children approach sports with a high level of commitment, aiming for professional excellence, while others engage in athletic activities purely for leisure. This phenomenon presents both advantages and drawbacks; however, I contend that it is predominantly a positive development due to its role in fostering discipline, perseverance, and career opportunities.
One of the paramount benefits of taking sports seriously is the cultivation of essential life skills. Competitive sports instill discipline, time management, and resilience—qualities that are transferable to various aspects of life, including academics and future careers. For instance, young athletes who adhere to rigorous training schedules develop a strong work ethic, which can serve them well in professional settings. Additionally, the pursuit of sports at a high level nurtures self-motivation and goal-setting abilities, essential for success in any field.
Furthermore, excelling in sports can lead to substantial career prospects. Many talented athletes secure scholarships, professional contracts, and endorsements, which provide financial stability and personal fulfillment. Given the globalization of sports, young athletes now have unprecedented access to international platforms, increasing their chances of turning their passion into a lucrative profession. This not only benefits individuals but also contributes to the broader economy, as professional sports generate significant revenue and employment opportunities.
Nevertheless, there are potential drawbacks associated with an excessive focus on sports. Children who dedicate themselves exclusively to athletic pursuits may neglect their education, limiting their career options should they fail to achieve professional success. Additionally, the physical strain of intense training increases the risk of injuries, which can have long-term repercussions on health. However, these risks can be mitigated with proper guidance and balanced schedules, ensuring that young athletes receive both academic and physical development.
In conclusion, while some concerns exist regarding the prioritization of sports over academics, the benefits of discipline, resilience, and career opportunities outweigh the drawbacks. As long as children receive adequate support, taking sports seriously can be an enriching and constructive path, equipping them with essential skills for a successful future.
5 Academic Words in the sample for Some children nowadays take sports seriously while others play sports in their free time
Paramount /ˈpær.ə.maʊnt/
- Sentence: Achieving a balance between academics and physical activity is paramount to a child’s holistic development.
Transferable /trænsˈfɜː.rə.bəl/
- Sentence: The problem-solving skills acquired through sports are transferable to various professional environments.
Lucrative /ˈluː.krə.tɪv/
- Sentence: Many young athletes aspire to turn their passion into a lucrative career through sponsorships and endorsements.
Repercussions /ˌriː.pəˈkʌʃ.ənz/
- Sentence: Excessive physical training at a young age can have severe repercussions on long-term health and well-being.
Enriching /ɪnˈrɪtʃ.ɪŋ/
- Sentence: Engaging in competitive sports can be an enriching experience, fostering resilience and teamwork skills.
5 Advanced Grammar Structures and How They Enhance the Essay
Complex Sentences with Relative Clauses
- Example: “Many talented athletes secure scholarships, professional contracts, and endorsements, which provide financial stability and personal fulfillment.”
- Why it helps: Enhances cohesion and demonstrates grammatical range.
Parallel Structures
- Example: “Competitive sports instill discipline, time management, and resilience—qualities that are transferable to various aspects of life.”
- Why it helps: Improves clarity and readability, making the argument more persuasive.
Conditional Sentences
- Example: “If young athletes adhere to rigorous training schedules, they develop a strong work ethic.”
- Why it helps: Demonstrates flexibility in sentence structure and supports logical reasoning.
Passive Voice for Formality
- Example: “These risks can be mitigated with proper guidance and balanced schedules.”
- Why it helps: Adds academic tone and avoids unnecessary personal pronouns.
Cohesive Devices and Conjunctions
- Example: “Nevertheless, there are potential drawbacks associated with an excessive focus on sports.”
- Why it helps: Enhances coherence, ensuring smooth transitions between ideas.
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