The topic of “how to ensure economic stability during global crises” is increasingly relevant in today’s interconnected world. This theme has appeared in various forms in past IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and is likely to continue being a popular subject for future exams. Given its importance and frequency, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to tackle this topic.
Let’s examine a recent IELTS Writing Task 2 question that addresses this issue:
Some people believe that governments should focus on economic growth to ensure a country’s prosperity, while others argue that other factors such as health and educational standards are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question touches on the broader theme of economic stability and national prosperity. It presents two contrasting views:
- The importance of economic growth for a country’s prosperity
- The significance of other factors like health and education
The task requires candidates to discuss both perspectives and provide their own opinion. This is a classic example of an opinion essay, where you need to present a balanced argument before stating your stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the wake of global crises, the debate over prioritizing economic growth versus investing in social sectors like health and education has intensified. While some argue that a robust economy is the cornerstone of national prosperity, others contend that a well-educated and healthy population is equally crucial. In my opinion, a balanced approach that considers both economic and social factors is essential for sustainable development and long-term stability.
Proponents of economic growth argue that a strong economy provides the foundation for overall national well-being. They contend that increased GDP leads to job creation, higher incomes, and improved living standards. Furthermore, a thriving economy generates tax revenues that can be reinvested in public services, including healthcare and education. For instance, countries like Singapore and South Korea have demonstrated how rapid economic growth can transform a nation’s fortunes and elevate its global standing.
On the other hand, advocates for prioritizing health and education argue that human capital is the true wealth of a nation. They maintain that a healthy and well-educated workforce is more productive, innovative, and resilient in the face of economic challenges. Countries like Finland and Norway, which consistently rank high in global education and health indices, have shown remarkable economic stability even during global downturns. This suggests that investing in these social sectors can act as a buffer against economic shocks.
In my view, the most effective approach is to strike a balance between economic growth and social development. A country’s prosperity cannot be measured solely by its GDP; factors such as life expectancy, literacy rates, and overall quality of life are equally important indicators. Governments should aim for inclusive growth that not only boosts the economy but also enhances the population’s well-being. This can be achieved through targeted policies that promote both economic expansion and social welfare.
For example, investing in education and healthcare can yield long-term economic benefits by creating a more skilled and productive workforce. Simultaneously, economic growth can provide the resources needed to improve and expand these social services. This symbiotic relationship between economic and social factors is key to ensuring sustainable prosperity and stability, especially during global crises.
In conclusion, while economic growth is undoubtedly important, it should not come at the expense of social development. A holistic approach that balances economic objectives with investments in health and education is crucial for a country’s long-term prosperity and resilience in the face of global challenges.
(Word count: 398)
Economic stability during crisis
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of how to ensure a country’s prosperity is a complex one. Some people think that governments should focus on economic growth, while others believe that factors like health and education are more important. Both views have their merits, and I will discuss them before giving my opinion.
Those who support focusing on economic growth argue that it is the key to a country’s success. They say that when the economy is strong, there are more jobs, people earn more money, and the standard of living goes up. For example, countries like China have seen huge improvements in people’s lives because of rapid economic growth. Also, when the economy is doing well, the government has more money to spend on things like hospitals and schools.
On the other hand, people who think health and education are more important say that these factors are the foundation of a strong society. They argue that healthy and well-educated people can contribute more to the economy and are better able to handle challenges. Countries like Finland, which is known for its excellent education system, tend to do well economically even when there are global problems.
In my opinion, both economic growth and factors like health and education are important for a country’s prosperity. I believe that governments should try to balance these different areas rather than focusing on just one. Economic growth is necessary to provide resources for improving health and education, but without good health and education, it’s hard to maintain economic growth in the long term.
For example, a government could invest in education and healthcare while also implementing policies to stimulate economic growth. This approach would help create a workforce that is both healthy and skilled, which would, in turn, contribute to economic growth. At the same time, the growing economy would provide more funds for further improvements in health and education.
In conclusion, while economic growth is important, it shouldn’t be the only focus for ensuring a country’s prosperity. A balanced approach that considers both economic and social factors is likely to be more successful in the long run, especially when facing global crises.
(Word count: 349)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This is crucial for achieving a high band score.
Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
Examples: Both essays provide relevant examples to support their arguments, which is essential for a high-scoring essay.
Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, which is a requirement of the task.
Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better use of cohesive devices and paragraph transitions.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Prosperity (noun) /prɒˈsper.ə.ti/: the state of being successful and having a lot of money
- Cornerstone (noun) /ˈkɔː.nə.stəʊn/: something of great importance that everything else depends on
- Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪl.i.ənt/: able to quickly recover from difficult conditions
- Symbiotic (adjective) /ˌsɪm.biˈɒt.ɪk/: describing a relationship between people or things that work with and depend on each other
- Buffer (noun) /ˈbʌf.ər/: something that acts as a protective barrier
- Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪs.tɪk/: considering the whole thing or being instead of just a part
- Inclusive (adjective) /ɪnˈkluː.sɪv/: including many different types of people and treating them all fairly and equally
In conclusion, the topic of ensuring economic stability during global crises is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as the balance between economic growth and social development, the role of government in managing economic crises, or the impact of global events on national economies. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use relevant examples, and express your opinion clearly.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your studies!