Communication Channels Essay – Score Band 8 in IELTS

Did You Know? IELTS Writing Task 2 contributes 66% of your total writing score and practicing real world essay topics like communication methods can improve your band by up to 1.5 points.

The IELTS (International English Language Testing System) Writing section has two tasks. Task 1 involves describing visual data or writing a letter, while Task 2 requires a formal essay of at least 250 words. This task is weighted more heavily and evaluates your ability to present ideas logically and with a wide range of vocabulary.

Task 2 can involve both formal and informal themes, and questions can appear in various forms: opinion-based, discussion-based, or advantage-disadvantage style. One common topic used in different question types is: “Letter, Email, Telephone Are Examples of Communication Channels.”

This topic may ask you to compare communication tools, express a preference, or evaluate their impact. Practicing these themes helps students build strong arguments, use an academic tone, and learn topic-specific vocabulary.

In this blog, you'll find two Band 8 Sample Essays, each based on different IELTS format questions related to the same topic. You'll also get useful tips, vocabulary lists, and common mistakes to avoid in IELTS Writing Task 2.

 

Sample Essay 1: Letter, Email, Telephone Are Examples of Communication Channels

This sample answers a “discuss both views and give your opinion” type of question. It compares traditional communication tools like letters with modern methods like email and telephone.

Sample Question: 1

Some people believe that traditional letters are more personal and meaningful, while others think emails and telephone calls are more efficient and practical. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

Sample Answer: 1

Communication methods have evolved rapidly, moving from handwritten letters to instant digital tools like email and telephone. While some people still value the emotional depth of traditional letters, others prioritize the convenience of modern communication channels.

Supporters of letter writing argue that it carries a personal touch that digital messages often lack. A handwritten letter can reflect effort, emotion, and sincerity. It’s often used for expressing feelings in special situations such as condolences, celebrations, or heartfelt confessions. Unlike an email or phone call, a physical letter becomes a keepsake — something tangible that can be read and cherished over time.

On the other hand, many believe that emails and telephone calls are better suited for today’s fast-paced world. Emails allow instant communication, document sharing, and professional correspondence. Telephones offer real-time interaction, which is essential in emergencies or urgent decision-making. These modern methods are practical, especially in business and time-sensitive contexts.

In my opinion, each method serves a different purpose and has its merits. While emails and calls are essential for efficiency, letters remain powerful in emotionally charged or personal contexts. A balanced use of both, depending on the situation, is the best approach.

Note: For “discuss both views” questions, present both sides equally, and then clearly state your opinion in the conclusion. Use linking words like “on the other hand” and “in my opinion” to maintain flow and coherence.

Sample Essay 2: Letter, Email, Telephone Are Examples of Communication Channels

This sample answers an opinion-based question. It asks the candidate to take a stand on whether face-to-face communication is better than using channels like letters, emails, or phone calls.

Sample Question: 1

Some people say that face-to-face communication is better than letters, emails, or telephone calls. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Sample Answer: 1

Face-to-face communication has long been considered the most effective form of interaction. However, with the rise of technology, many people now rely heavily on letters, emails, and telephone calls. I believe that while in-person communication is ideal in some contexts, modern channels offer practical benefits that cannot be ignored.

Direct interaction allows for body language, eye contact, and instant feedback — all of which enhance understanding. It’s particularly useful in emotional or sensitive conversations, such as resolving conflicts or expressing empathy. Moreover, it helps build trust, especially in personal or high-stakes professional meetings.

On the other hand, communication channels like email and telephone provide accessibility, speed, and documentation. Emails, for instance, are essential in the corporate world for tracking discussions and sharing files. Telephones offer instant verbal exchange when meeting in person isn’t possible. Letters, though slower, still serve formal or ceremonial roles, such as invitations or official notices.

In my opinion, the value of a communication method depends on the purpose and context. While face-to-face interaction is ideal for emotional clarity and human connection, channels like emails and phone calls are better suited for convenience, efficiency, and distance communication. A blended approach ensures better communication in both personal and professional settings.

Note: In “to what extent do you agree or disagree” questions, clearly express your stance in the introduction and support it throughout the essay. Acknowledge the other side if needed, but stay consistent with your viewpoint.

 Quick Tips for Effective Writing in IELTS Task 2

To get a good score in IELTS Writing Task 2, you need to write clearly and stay on topic. These simple tips will help you plan better and write a strong, well-structured essay.

• Know the Essay Type First
  Understand if the question is asking for your opinion, a discussion, solutions, or pros and cons. This helps shape your answer.
• Plan Before You Start
  Take 3–5 minutes to list your main ideas and examples. A quick outline makes writing easier and faster.
• Use a Clear Structure
  Write four paragraphs: an introduction, two body paragraphs, and a conclusion. This keeps your writing organized.
• Keep the Tone Formal
  Don’t use slang or short forms like can’t or won’t. Write in full, formal sentences.
• Add Linking Words
  Use words like firstly, however, for example, and in conclusion to connect your ideas.
• Don’t Try Too Hard with Big Words
  Use vocabulary you’re comfortable with. Clear writing is better than complicated or confusing sentences.
• Save Time to Check Your Work
  If possible, spend the last few minutes checking your spelling, grammar, and punctuation.

Want to learn more about the IELTS Writing section and expert tips to boost your score? Click here to explore 10 must-know strategies for IELTS Writing success.

Common Vocabulary for Communication Channels Essay

Good vocabulary helps you explain your ideas better. Here are some useful words and phrases you can use while writing about communication methods like letters, emails, and phone calls in your IELTS essay.

Nouns (Things):
communication, letter, email, message, phone call, device, connection, feedback, signal, conversation

Verbs (Actions):
write, send, call, talk, respond, connect, reply, receive, express, deliver

Adjectives (Describing words):
formal, quick, urgent, personal, written, digital, old-fashioned, reliable, instant, clear

Time Phrases:
these days, in the past, over the years, nowadays, in recent times

Linking Words (to connect ideas):
firstly, on the other hand, for example, however, in conclusion, in my opinion, also, as a result

Useful Phrases:

• "With the rise of technology..."
• "In today’s fast-paced world..."
• "Compared to traditional methods..."
• "Face-to-face talks vs. written forms..."
• "Each method has its benefits..."

Note:  Use these words naturally in your writing. Practice by writing simple sentences with them so you feel confident during the real exam.

Common Mistakes in IELTS Writing Task 2

Many students lose marks in IELTS Writing Task 2 because of small but avoidable mistakes. Learning these in advance can help you write smarter and score higher.

So, before you pick up the pen, here’s a must-know list of common writing errors to avoid in your next IELTS essay.

1. Writing Off-Topic
If you don’t fully understand the question, you might give the wrong answer. Always read the question carefully and underline key parts.

2. Using Informal Language
Avoid slang or casual words like gonna or yeah. The IELTS writing task needs a formal tone. Use full forms like cannot instead of can’t.

3. Repeating Words Too Much
Try not to use the same word again and again. Use synonyms to show a range of vocabulary. For example, use a message instead of repeating an email.

4. Poor Paragraph Structure
Mixing too many ideas in one paragraph or not separating points clearly can confuse the reader. Each paragraph should focus on one idea.

5. Wrong Grammar or Tenses
Mistakes in verb tenses or subject-verb agreement hurt your grammar score. Check your sentences while writing and again during proofreading.

6. Not Giving Examples
If you don’t support your points with examples, your ideas can seem weak. Use real or imagined examples that match the question.

7. Writing Too Few Words
If you write fewer than 250 words in Task 2, you will lose marks. Always aim for 260–280 words to stay safe.

Tip: Practice writing under time limits and review your old essays to spot these mistakes.

 Conclusion

Understanding how to write about topics like letters, emails, and telephone calls as communication channels is an important part of IELTS Writing Task 2 preparation. This blog walked you through helpful sample essays, useful vocabulary, expert writing tips, and common mistakes to avoid. These tools not only improve your ability to express ideas clearly but also prepare you for a range of formal and real-life essay topics. With regular practice and the right approach, you’ll be well on your way to reaching your target IELTS band score.

Need 1:1 Help with IELTS Writing? Talk to an expert at upGrad to get personalised guidance on your IELTS preparation. Click here to book a free session now.