Young People Find it Difficult to Communicate With Older People - IELTS Writing Task 2

“Young People Find it Difficult to Communicate With Older People” is a common cause-and-solution IELTS Writing Task 2 topic that explores the growing communication gap between generations. This essay examines the main reasons behind this issue, such as differences in values, technology use, and lifestyle choices, and suggests practical solutions including family engagement programs, intergenerational activities, and improved communication skills. This blog includes 3 well-structured sample essays along with useful vocabulary to help learners improve coherence, idea development, and achieve a higher band score in the IELTS Writing test.

Question

Outline

Essay Type

Cause/solution

Introduction

Sentences 1&2 – Communication is widely considered to be one of the key tools in one’s repertoire as it pertains to understanding and building connections with others. However, it is also known that younger generations often struggle when communicating with the elderly.

Sentence 3 – The reason for this, in my opinion, is generation gap and this can be resolved by finding ways to bridge this gap and draw generations closer.

Body Paragraphs:

Paragraph 1 – The differences between younger and older generations have always existed throughout history.

Paragraph 2 – Various solutions are discussed.

Conclusion

In conclusion, it can be said that finding serviceable ways for paring down the generational chasm will help younger people to fathom how to better communicate with their elders.

Young People Find it Difficult to Communicate With Older People - Sample Answer 1

Communication is extensively considered to be one of the key tools in one’s repertoire as it pertains to understanding and building connections with others. However, it is also known that younger people often struggle when communicating with the elderly. The reason for this, in my opinion, is the generation gap and this can be resolved by finding ways to bridge this gap and draw people closer.

Firstly, throughout history, it can be seen that differences between the attitudes and behaviours of younger and older generations have existed since time immemorial. This results from rapid social changes, greater life expectancy, and social mobility. The youth find that they share hardly any common interests or beliefs with older people, which leaves them at a loss when it comes to communicating. Some older people might also be unyielding and unwilling to communicate with their juniors due to their relative lack of experience, which further leaves young people perplexed and clueless when trying to reach out to older people.

It can be remediated by opening up more channels of communication. Inculcating a willingness to learn and receptiveness for both younger and older people can be beneficial in improving their communication. In workplaces, two-way mentorship programs can be implemented allowing young people to cross the hurdle of generational differences. Finding common interests or shifting the focus onto characteristics that unite them instead of their differences can also reduce the generation gap and facilitate better inter-generational communication. Lastly, having both young and old people respect each other and the difference in their values can help them communicate better with each other.

In conclusion, it can be said that finding serviceable ways to paring down the generational chasm will help younger people to fathom how to better communicate with their elders.

Young People Find it Difficult to Communicate With Older People - Sample Answer 2

Effective communication between generations has become increasingly difficult in modern society. Young people find it difficult to communicate with older people due to contrasting experiences and expectations. This essay will discuss the causes of this problem and offer possible solutions.

A major cause is the generation gap in lifestyle and interests. Younger individuals often focus on contemporary issues, pop culture, and technology, while older people may prioritize traditions, family values, and face-to-face conversations. This mismatch can lead to a lack of common ground for discussion. Another reason is limited interaction. With busy schedules, both young and older people may not spend enough time together to understand each other’s perspectives. In addition, some young people feel intimidated or impatient when speaking with older adults, further hindering communication.

To overcome these challenges, programs promoting intergenerational interaction can be implemented, such as joint volunteer projects, community clubs, or mentorship schemes. Families can also encourage regular communication by creating structured time for discussions, sharing experiences, or involving older members in decision-making. Moreover, educating both generations about empathy and active listening can improve mutual understanding.

In summary, lifestyle differences, limited interaction, and lack of mutual understanding are the main reasons why communication between young and older people is difficult. Through intergenerational programs, family initiatives, and empathy-building efforts, this issue can be effectively addressed.

Young People Find it Difficult to Communicate With Older People - Sample Answer 3

In many societies today, a significant communication gap exists between younger and older generations. Young people find it difficult to communicate with older people, which can lead to misunderstandings and weakened family or community bonds. This essay will explore the main reasons for this problem and propose practical solutions.

One primary reason is differences in values and interests. Young people often have modern viewpoints shaped by current social trends, whereas older individuals may hold traditional beliefs. This divergence makes conversations challenging, as each generation struggles to relate to the other. Another reason is the influence of technology. Younger people often prefer communicating through social media, messaging apps, or online platforms, while older individuals are more accustomed to face-to-face interactions, letters, or phone calls. Finally, busy lifestyles limit the time spent together, reducing opportunities for meaningful conversations.

To address this issue, families and communities can organize intergenerational activities, such as storytelling sessions, workshops, or community events, to create opportunities for dialogue. Schools and youth programs can also teach young people effective communication skills and the importance of respecting older perspectives. Encouraging older people to adopt digital tools, such as smartphones and social media, can further bridge the communication gap.

In conclusion, differences in values, technology preferences, and busy lifestyles are the main reasons why young people struggle to communicate with older generations. By promoting intergenerational activities, communication training, and digital inclusion, this problem can be significantly reduced.

Young People Find it Difficult to Communicate With Older People - Vocabulary

The following are some of the IELTS Vocabulary found in the above writing sample answers. 

• Extensively

Meaning – Vastly or immensely
Example – The museum was extensively restored by the authorities.

• Repertoire

Meaning – Collection or reserve
Example – The library held a vast repertoire of books of varied genres.

• Mobility

Meaning – The ability to move easily or the ability to move from one social strata to another
Example – She had limited mobility in her arm following the accident.

• Unyielding

Meaning – Holding strong opinions and unlikely to change one’s mind about them
Example – The college authorities were unyielding towards the demands of the protesting students.

5. Remediate

Meaning – To lessen the effect of something
Example – The government offered financial help to the victims of the flood in order to remediate its devastating effects.

• Mentorship

Meaning – Guidance or assistance provided over a period of time by an experienced person who is considered to be a mentor
Example – Priyanka decided to start a mentorship programme for children in her neighbourhood to teach them tennis and dance.

• Hurdle

Meaning – Barrier or obstacle
Example – Her financial situation was the first in a series of hurdles on her path to attaining education.

• Facilitate

Meaning – Make something easy or easier
Example – The teacher provided typed notes to facilitate her students’ understanding.

• Serviceable

Meaning – Helpful or useful
Example – Repairing the old lifts in the building will make them serviceable.

• Chasm

Meaning – Gap
Example – There was a wide chasm on the cliffs near the beach.