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People do not have such a close relationship with their neighbours as they did..(IELTS Band 9 Essay)

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.


Write about the following topic:


In general, people do not have such a close relationship with their neighbours as they did in the past.

Why is this so, and what can be done to improve contact between neighbours?


Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge and experiences.


You should write at least 250 words.


IELTS Task 2 Essay Band 9 Sample  - In general, people do not have such a close relationship with their neighbours as they did in the past.

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Sample Essay 1

These days, most people do not tend to have close knit communication with their neighbours compared to the old time. Excessive individualism is the root cause behind this development; however, a proper formal community engagement could bring effective results in this issue. Following paragraphs will elucidate this idea in detail.


To begin with, the main reason of people’s reluctance to have relationship with neighbours is the rise of extreme self-centred lifestyle. Now-a-days, people are too busy to meet their own needs and interests. When people have everything that they require, they tend to pursue for more to avail a lavish living. This nuclear mindset is exponentially growing over the generations, and a perspective is breeding that money can buy anything which neither the neighbours nor the relatives can. As a result, people are losing interest in their communities. Previously, when automation and online communication technology was not developed and government services were not up to the mark, people needed neighbours’ assistance with their day-to-day activities. Whereas now, people pay the service fees online to an anonymous helping hand and can get the job done without exchanging even a single talk. This structural change, in other words, this individualistic viewpoint is crowding out the bonding between neighbours.


However, proper community engagement programs could address this issue effectively. To implement this, local authorities can launch neighbours’ connection activities, it could be like people of different skills voluntarily can share their diverse knowledge and experience with their neighbours. For example, parents, who are worried about how to raise their children, can easily get some advice from veterans. Both working and single parents can be incredibly benefited from this approach. These engagements can eventually develop a natural communication among the society members. In addition, occasional local events such as dance, sports and art competition etc. could take place to increase the interaction in a festive mood. On the road to the events and during the festivals, the amount of time spent with neighbours is simply priceless in terms of social involvement.


To conclude, with the advent of technology and other advantages, people are increasingly finding the relationship with neighbours is unnecessary. However, properly organised social engagement programs can demonstrate the importance and benefits of interaction and develop the interest of maintaining a strong tie among the society members.


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Sample Essay 2

In contemporary society, the bond between neighbours appears to be weaker than in bygone eras. This phenomenon stems from various factors, including the rapid pace of modern life and technological advancements. Strengthening community ties necessitates concerted efforts to foster communication and shared experiences among neighbours.


Primarily, the erosion of neighbourly relations can be attributed to the frenetic nature of today’s lifestyle. With individuals consumed by work and personal commitments, there's scant opportunity to cultivate connections with those living nearby. Additionally, the advent of digital communication means people are more inclined to engage online rather than face-to-face, further diminishing the sense of community. To illustrate, a study revealed that over 70% of individuals know fewer than half of their neighbours by name, highlighting the shift towards more isolated living conditions.


To counteract this trend, initiatives aimed at encouraging interaction are paramount. Community events, such as street parties or neighbourhood clean-up projects, serve as excellent platforms for residents to meet and bond over shared goals. Moreover, the establishment of community centers where people can participate in various activities together could significantly enhance neighbourly ties. These efforts not only promote socialization but also engender a sense of belonging and collective responsibility for one's environment.


In conclusion, while modern life challenges the fabric of neighbourly relationships, adopting strategies to encourage interaction and shared activities can rekindle the closeness once prevalent. By prioritizing community engagement and face-to-face communication, we can forge stronger, more supportive neighbourhood networks, conducive to a healthier, more connected society.


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Sample Essay 3

In the intricate tapestry of contemporary society, the threads connecting neighbours have undeniably loosened, a departure from the tightly knit communities of yesteryears. This decline in neighbourly rapport is primarily attributed to the accelerated pace of modern life and the ascendancy of digital communication. To weave stronger connections among neighbours, innovative and concerted measures are necessary.


The fast-forward tempo of the modern era leaves scant room for leisurely porch conversations or spontaneous visits. Occupations and personal pursuits often eclipse communal interactions, relegating neighbourly exchanges to the periphery of daily life. Furthermore, the digital revolution has ushered in an era where social media interactions supplant face-to-face dialogue, contributing to a virtual, yet palpable, barrier between neighbours. A poignant example of this is found in urban landscapes, where despite physical proximity, residents may remain strangers, encapsulated within their digital bubbles.


To mend the frayed edges of neighbourhood cohesion, targeted initiatives that promote genuine interactions hold the key. Organizing neighbourhood gatherings that celebrate local heritage or achievements can spark conversations, laying the groundwork for enduring relationships. Similarly, collaborative community projects, such as communal gardens or local book clubs, offer platforms for shared interests to flourish, thereby knitting individuals closer. These activities not only foster a sense of community but also cultivate a shared identity and mutual respect among neighbours.


In conclusion, society's lean towards individualism and digital interaction has weakened neighbourly connections. However, by promoting community initiatives and prioritizing direct interactions, we have the potential to rebuild a society where neighbours form the backbone of a supportive and lively community, crucial for fostering a united, compassionate world.


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