Positive or Negative Development — Band 9 Template

Introduction

In recent years, [paraphrase the trend/development] has become increasingly common. Although this development may have certain drawbacks, I believe that it is largely/overwhelmingly a positive development because [reason 1] and [reason 2].

If negative:

In recent years, [paraphrase the trend] has become increasingly common. While this development may offer certain benefits, I believe that it is largely a negative development because [reason 1] and [reason 2].

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Body Paragraph 1 — First Main Point

One of the main reasons why I consider this development positive/negative is that [main idea]. This is largely because [explanation]. In other words, [further explanation]. For example, [specific example]. As a result, [consequence].

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Body Paragraph 2 — Second Main Point

Another significant factor is that [second main idea]. When [situation], [explanation]. This can lead to [result]. For instance, [example]. Therefore, [link to your overall judgement].

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Optional Body Paragraph 3 — Opposite Side

If you want a more balanced Band 9 essay:

Admittedly, this trend is not without its disadvantages. [Opposite point]. However, these drawbacks are relatively minor compared with [main benefit/advantage]. Therefore, I believe that the overall impact remains positive/negative.

You do not need this paragraph if your first two body paragraphs fully establish your position.

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Conclusion

In conclusion, although [trend] may have some drawbacks/benefits, I believe that it is predominantly a positive/negative development. This is mainly because [reason 1] and [reason 2].

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🔥 Band 9 Sample

Question

Nowadays, more and more people are choosing to work from home. Is this a positive or negative development?

Answer

In recent years, working from home has become increasingly common, largely due to advances in digital technology and changing attitudes towards employment. Although this development may present certain challenges, I believe that it is overwhelmingly positive because it offers greater flexibility and can improve employees' quality of life.

One of the main reasons why I consider this development positive is that remote working provides employees with considerably greater flexibility. People can often organise their working hours around personal responsibilities, which is particularly beneficial for parents and those with long commutes. This flexibility can enable employees to achieve a healthier balance between their professional and personal lives. For example, an employee who previously spent two hours commuting each day could use this time for childcare, exercise or household responsibilities. As a result, working from home can reduce stress and improve overall wellbeing.

Another significant advantage is that remote working can reduce both financial and environmental costs. Employees can save money on transportation, meals and work-related expenses, while companies may require less office space and consequently spend less on rent and utilities. Furthermore, fewer daily commutes can reduce traffic congestion and vehicle emissions. For instance, if thousands of employees in a large city work remotely several days a week, the resulting reduction in commuting could contribute to lower levels of pollution. Therefore, the benefits of remote work extend beyond individual employees to businesses and society as a whole.

Admittedly, working from home can have some disadvantages. Some employees may experience social isolation or find it difficult to separate their professional and personal lives. Nevertheless, these problems can be reduced through regular team meetings, hybrid working arrangements and appropriate management practices. In my view, such disadvantages do not outweigh the considerable benefits of remote employment.

In conclusion, although working from home can create certain challenges, I believe that it is predominantly a positive development. Its ability to provide greater flexibility, improve work-life balance and reduce financial and environmental costs makes it highly beneficial for individuals, businesses and society.