IELTS Band 9 Essay About sport is nothing more than a leisure activity
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “sport is nothing more than a leisure activity”. 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 IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 Response
Some people believe that sport has an important role in society. Others, however, feel that it is nothing more than a leisure activity for some people.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
The role of sport in society is a topic that has garnered considerable debate. While some individuals assert that sport plays a crucial role in fostering community spirit and promoting health, others argue that it merely serves as a form of leisure for a select few. This essay will discuss both perspectives and provide my own viewpoint.
Proponents of the idea that sport is vital to society often highlight its ability to cultivate a sense of community. Sporting events, whether local matches or international competitions, bring people together, fostering social cohesion and a shared identity. For instance, during major sporting events such as the Olympics or the World Cup, nations unite in support of their teams, creating a powerful sense of belonging. Additionally, participation in sports can lead to improved physical and mental well-being. Regular exercise not only enhances physical fitness but also contributes to better mental health, reducing symptoms of anxiety and depression.
On the other hand, critics contend that sport is largely a pastime enjoyed by a minority. They argue that while some individuals are passionate about various sports, the majority of the population may not engage in such activities regularly. In this view, the emphasis on sports can detract from more pressing societal issues such as education and employment. Furthermore, the commercialization of sports has led to a focus on profit rather than community benefits, with many athletes prioritizing financial gain over the spirit of competition.
In my opinion, while it is true that not everyone engages in sports, dismissing its significance would be an oversight. Sport has the potential to transcend cultural and social barriers, promoting inclusivity and understanding among diverse groups. Moreover, initiatives aimed at encouraging youth participation in sports can lead to healthier lifestyles and instill values such as teamwork and perseverance.
In conclusion, although there are valid arguments on both sides of the debate regarding the role of sport in society, I believe that its benefits far outweigh the criticisms. Sport not only enhances community spirit and individual health but also serves as a powerful tool for social change. Therefore, it is essential to recognize and promote the positive impact that sports can have on society as a whole.
Academic Vocabulary in the sample for sport is nothing more than a leisure activity
1. Sport [spɔːrt]
• Sentence: Sport has the power to unite people from diverse backgrounds.
2. Health [hɛlθ]
• Sentence: Maintaining good health is crucial for a fulfilling life.
3. Leisure [ˈliːʒər]
• Sentence: Many people enjoy leisure activities during their free time.
4. Community [kəˈmjuːnəti]
• Sentence: Building a strong community requires active participation from its members.
5. Well-being [wɛlˈbiːɪŋ]
• Sentence: Mental well-being is just as important as physical health.
Advanced Grammar Structures:
1. Complex Sentences: The use of complex sentences allows for nuanced expression of ideas (e.g., “While some individuals assert that sport plays a crucial role…”).
2. Conditional Clauses: Conditional statements express hypothetical scenarios (e.g., “If sport is promoted effectively, it can lead to healthier lifestyles”).
3. Passive Voice: The passive voice emphasizes the action rather than the subject (e.g., “Sporting events are organized to foster community spirit”).
4. Subjunctive Mood: This mood expresses wishes or hypothetical situations (e.g., “It is essential that everyone recognize the benefits of sport”).
5. Relative Clauses: These clauses provide additional information about nouns (e.g., “Sporting events, which bring people together, play an important role”).
Using these advanced structures contributes to achieving a higher score by demonstrating grammatical range and accuracy, which are essential criteria for IELTS writing assessment.
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