Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past - IELTS Writing Task 2

In an age where digital acceleration, urban transformation, and shifting social norms continuously reshape how we work, communicate, and make decisions, the idea of ‘modern lifestyle’ has become more complex than ever. This has sparked a debate among people about whether we are truly progressing or simply drifting away from meaningful traditions. The IELTS Writing Task 2 topic ‘Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past’ picks up this debate and wants you discuss both sides, followed by your opinion.

In this article, we examine sample answers for the IELTS discussion essay on the topic ‘Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past’, along with an outline and relevant IELTS vocabulary to help you craft a well-structured Band 7+ discussion essay.

Essay Question for ‘Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past’

Outline for IELTS Discussion Essay

Given below is the outline that will help you to understand how to write an IELTS discussion essay with opinion, like ‘Modern Lifestyles are completely different from the way people lived in the past’.

Sample Answers for Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past IELTS Writing Task 2

You will find three IELTS Band 9 essay samples on the topic ‘Modern lifestyles differ completely from the way people lived in the past’ below. They will help you in writing your own essay and achieving a high score.

Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past - Sample Answer 1

It is often argued that the lifestyle people follow today is drastically different from that of previous generations. While some claim these changes have brought significant improvements, others believe they have negatively affected society. In my view, modern lifestyles offer undeniable advantages despite certain concerning drawbacks.

On one hand, many people argue that modern lifestyles have enhanced convenience, efficiency, and global connectivity. Technological advancements have made communication instantaneous, enabling individuals to maintain relationships across continents. For example, online learning platforms enable students from remote regions to study at world-class universities. Additionally, healthcare innovations have increased life expectancy and improved the quality of life. For instance, telemedicine now allows patients to receive medical advice without travelling long distances, especially benefiting the elderly. Furthermore, modern work environments promote flexibility through remote jobs, giving people opportunities to balance personal and professional responsibilities more effectively.

On the other hand, some believe that contemporary living has created unhealthy habits and emotional disconnect. An overreliance on digital devices has contributed to sedentary lifestyles, leading to obesity, stress, and reduced physical activity. The rise of consumerism has also encouraged individuals to prioritise material possessions over social relationships, weakening community bonds. In addition, the pressure to succeed in competitive work environments often results in burnout and anxiety. These issues highlight that progress sometimes comes with hidden costs that affect people’s overall well-being.

In summary, both sides present compelling arguments regarding modern lifestyles. However, I believe the advantages outweigh the disadvantages, provided people consciously maintain balance and use technology responsibly to preserve their physical and emotional health.

Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past - Sample Answer 2

In recent times, human living standards have changed drastically. Indeed, modern lifestyles are entirely different from the previous ways of life. I am of the opinion that this refashion is a positive outcome, and this essay will elucidate why.

First and foremost, ample conveniences of various commodities and services, like accessible healthcare, access to proper housing, clean drinking water and so on, have resulted in a shift in lifestyles. Secondly, the electronification of our age has also had a blunt effect on lifestyle changes, like the invention of smartphones, better travelling, and advancement in automobile technology. It has eased our lives to quite an extent as now we can communicate instantaneously across continents, without the worry of boundaries and time lag, and travel greater distances safely.

Humans have also witnessed a rise in dependence on machinery. As industrialisation takes on successive iterations, we are moving towards Artificial Intelligence and Augmented Reality, which are destined to make human lives even more uncomplicated. Such changes significantly alter our lifestyle as previous actions that took human input can now be computed and executed by a machine without human interference.

Some might argue that the growing prevalence of dependence on machinery has varied adverse effects. For instance, it is making us lazier, as now our daily chores are deputised to machines, and our physical activity is diminishing as we play games on a desktop or a console instead of exerting ourselves on the playground. But, one cannot deny the positive impact automation and newer lifestyle changes have had on us.

Hence, it is safe to say that, yes, the modern lifestyles are very different from that of the yesteryears. And yes, it is a good thing in itself.

Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past - Sample Answer 3

It is true to say that the way in which today’s people live has changed from the previous generations. It is claimed that modernity has brought several advantages, but others argue that it causes numerous problems. In this essay, I will consider both sides of the argument and offer my personal view.

Undeniably, people are benefiting from the modern way of life. The most significant advantage is fast communication. Decades ago, it was too difficult for people to make contact with a person far away. Phones were so too expensive that they could not afford to buy them. But now, most people own at least one mobile phone. As a result, with the advancement of communication technology, they can communicate with one another domestically or internationally round the clock. For instance, a person in Asia can instantly send a message to a friend or a relative in America.

On the other hand, the current lifestyle poses threats to the planet. Firstly, natural resources are being consumed unsustainably, and the earth cannot keep up to replenish the depleting resources. This might result in a shortage of non-renewable resources such as oil, coal and gas. Secondly, a tremendous amount of wastage is caused by consumerism. Generally, people buy things, mainly fashion clothes or bags, whether they are genuine needs. It leads to a growing number of dumpsites in significant cities worldwide, affecting public health. For instance, pollution from rubbish piles around Yangon City makes the air unclean and unhealthy to breathe.

In conclusion, modern living is no longer the same as previous generations experienced it. Humans have received both benefits and downsides from it. Nevertheless, it is crucial to embrace the changes, yet, it is vital to be aware of its unintended consequences.

Vocabulary to Use for Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past - IELTS Writing Task 2

Below are some good vocabulary words to use in an IELTS essay, like ‘Modern Lifestyle are Completely Different from the Way People Lived in the Past’, which will help you when framing your answer for this or related topics.

To conclude, modern lifestyles will continue to evolve, bringing both opportunities and challenges. In order to master this topic, you will require the ability to analyse contrasting viewpoints with the help of recent IELTS Writing topics with answers, support arguments with logical reasoning, and express opinions clearly. With strong vocabulary and well-structured ideas, you can confidently approach any modern life-related Writing Task 2 question and aim for a Band 7 or higher. 

Useful Links:

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