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Lesson 4 of 5
Tourism — Good or Bad?
Core 60 min
Pathway
Lesson 6.4 builds the Task 2 advantages / disadvantages essay, with a balanced conclusion suited to Band 6–7 candidates.
What you'll be able to do
- Plan a 4-paragraph adv/disadv essay in 5 minutes
- Use balanced linkers ('on the one hand', 'while')
- Reach a clear, justified conclusion
Writing Task
Today's Task 2 prompt
Example · Prompt
Tourism brings clear economic benefits to many countries. However, it can also damage the environment and local cultures. Do the advantages of tourism outweigh the disadvantages?
Writing Task
Structure · 4-paragraph plan
Map your 250 words
Intro
Paraphrase + clear answer (yes, advantages outweigh; or no, they don't).
Body 1 — advantages
Two strong points: jobs, foreign currency. One developed example.
Body 2 — disadvantages
Two real costs: overcrowding, cultural erosion. One developed example.
Conclusion
Restate position with reason. Don't introduce new ideas.
Focus
Linkers · Balanced argument
- On the one hand, … On the other hand, …
- While X brings clear benefits, …
- Despite these advantages, …
- On balance, the benefits / drawbacks are more significant because …
Focus
Model · Band 6 → Band 7 conclusion
Conclusion strength
Band 6 · Competent
- In conclusion, tourism has both advantages and disadvantages. It is a difficult question.
Band 7 · Good
- On balance, the economic gains from tourism — particularly for developing economies — clearly outweigh the environmental costs, provided that governments enforce strict planning controls.
Focus
Pathway focus · Academic register
Academic candidates should reach for impersonal phrasing: 'it can be argued that …', 'governments must …'. Avoid 'I think' in body paragraphs.
Exam Strategy
Exam Strategy
- Exam Tip
Decide your answer in the intro — examiners look for a position.
Independent Practice
Independent Practice
Timed essay
Write the full 250-word response in 40 minutes.
Key Takeaways
Key Takeaways
Remember
- Adv/disadv ≠ both sides essay — you must weigh and conclude.
- On balance, … is your best conclusion opener.
When you're done, mark this lesson complete.