Writing Task 2 · Opinion (agree or disagree)

Artificial intelligence in healthcare diagnosis and treatment: positive or negative: IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer

An IELTS Writing Task 2 opinion essay question with a Band 8 sample answer, the plan behind it, the vocabulary that lifts it and what an examiner looks for.
  • 277 words
  • Opinion (agree or disagree)
  • Academic
  • 40 minutes

The question

Artificial Intelligence is increasingly used in healthcare diagnosis and treatment. To what extent do you think this is a positive or negative development?

About 40 minutes. Write at least 250 words.

Opinion (agree or disagree)

Plan before you write

  1. 1

    Your position

    The integration of artificial intelligence into medical practice is a predominantly positive development because it enhances diagnostic precision and improves operational efficiency.

  2. 2

    Paragraph 2

    AI algorithms significantly improve the accuracy of diagnostic processes by analysing complex medical data faster than humans.

  3. 3

    Paragraph 3

    The implementation of AI streamlines hospital workflows, allowing healthcare professionals to focus more on patient-centred care.

  • →State a clear position in the last sentence of the introduction and keep it to the end.
  • →Two body paragraphs that each give one reason for that position, with an example.
  • →A partial position is fine if it is stated precisely; a position that drifts is what caps task response at 6.

Model answer

Band 8 sample essay

Band 8277 words · use the structure and vocabulary, not the sentences

The rapid advancement of artificial intelligence has revolutionised the medical sector, leading to its widespread application in diagnosing illnesses and determining treatment protocols. While some express concerns regarding the dehumanisation of care, I believe this technological shift is highly beneficial due to its capacity to increase diagnostic accuracy and optimise hospital resources.

Primarily, AI algorithms process vast quantities of medical data with a level of precision that is often unattainable by human practitioners. By identifying subtle patterns in diagnostic imaging, such as X-rays or MRIs, these systems can detect life-threatening conditions like cancer at their earliest, most treatable stages. For instance, recent clinical trials have demonstrated that AI-driven software can identify malignant tumours with a higher success rate than experienced radiologists, thereby reducing the incidence of misdiagnosis and improving patient outcomes.

Furthermore, the integration of intelligent systems significantly enhances the efficiency of healthcare delivery. By automating routine administrative tasks and triaging patient information, AI allows medical staff to dedicate more time to direct patient interaction and complex decision-making. As an example, hospitals that have adopted AI-powered patient management systems report a marked decrease in waiting times and a more streamlined flow of information between departments, which ensures that urgent cases receive immediate attention without the delays inherent in manual coordination.

In summary, the adoption of artificial intelligence in healthcare is a positive trend that substantially augments the capabilities of medical professionals. By combining superior diagnostic speed with improved operational efficiency, these technologies offer a robust solution to the growing pressures on global healthcare systems. As long as human oversight remains central to the final treatment decisions, the benefits of this transition will far outweigh the potential drawbacks.

Examiner's view

Why this scores Band 8

The essay earns a Band 8 by maintaining a clear, consistent position with well-developed arguments and precise, sophisticated vocabulary. A Band 6 answer typically fails to provide specific examples and often relies on generic, repetitive claims about technology without explaining the 'how' or 'why' behind the diagnosis process.

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8 words

Vocabulary from the essay

  • revolutionised

    changed something completely in a very positive way

  • attainable

    able to be reached or achieved through effort

  • malignant

    a serious disease that is likely to spread

  • misdiagnosis

    an incorrect identification of an illness or condition

  • triaging

    assigning degrees of urgency to wounded or ill

  • streamlined

    made more efficient by simplifying complex internal processes

  • augments

    increases the value or effectiveness of something else

  • robust

    strong, healthy, and unlikely to fail or break

More words for this topic: IELTS vocabulary for health.

Frequently asked questions

What type of essay is "Artificial intelligence in healthcare diagnosis and treatment: positive or negative"?+

Opinion (agree or disagree). State a clear position in the last sentence of the introduction and keep it to the end.

How many words should an IELTS Writing Task 2 essay be?+

At least 250 words, in about 40 minutes. This sample is 277 words, written to fit that time with five minutes left to check grammar.

How is IELTS Writing Task 2 scored?+

On four criteria: task response, coherence and cohesion, vocabulary, and grammatical range and accuracy. Task 2 counts for twice as much as Task 1 in your Writing band.

What is the difference between a Band 6 and a Band 8 answer here?+

The essay earns a Band 8 by maintaining a clear, consistent position with well-developed arguments and precise, sophisticated vocabulary. A Band 6 answer typically fails to provide specific examples and often relies on generic, repetitive claims about technology without explaining the 'how' or 'why' behind the diagnosis process.

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