Economic downturns and their impact on small businesses have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic is particularly relevant given the global economic challenges faced in recent years. Based on the analysis of past IELTS exams and current economic trends, it’s highly likely that questions related to managing small businesses during economic crises will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.
Some people think that governments should provide financial assistance to small businesses during economic downturns, while others believe these businesses should be responsible for managing their own finances. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should provide financial assistance to small businesses during economic downturns.
- Discuss the opposing view that small businesses should be responsible for managing their own finances.
- Provide their own opinion on the matter.
The key challenge here is to present a balanced argument while clearly stating your personal stance.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Economic recessions pose significant challenges to small businesses, often leading to debates about the extent of government intervention. While some argue for state financial assistance, others believe in the self-reliance of these enterprises. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government aid argue that small businesses are the backbone of many economies, providing employment and driving innovation. During economic downturns, these businesses are particularly vulnerable due to reduced consumer spending and tighter credit conditions. Government support, such as low-interest loans or tax relief, can help these businesses weather the storm, preventing widespread closures and job losses. This intervention can be seen as a form of economic stabilization, helping to maintain consumer confidence and spending power.
On the other hand, those against government assistance contend that businesses should be prepared for economic fluctuations. They argue that reliance on government aid can lead to moral hazard, where businesses take unnecessary risks knowing they will be bailed out. Furthermore, they believe that market forces should naturally eliminate inefficient businesses, allowing for the reallocation of resources to more productive sectors. This perspective emphasizes the importance of financial prudence and adaptability in business management.
In my opinion, a balanced approach is necessary. While I believe that businesses should primarily be responsible for their financial management, I also recognize the unique challenges posed by severe economic downturns. Governments should provide targeted, temporary assistance to viable small businesses during exceptional circumstances, such as the recent global pandemic. This support should be conditional on businesses demonstrating sound financial practices and a clear path to recovery. Such an approach can help preserve the economic fabric of communities while still encouraging responsible business management.
In conclusion, while small businesses should generally be self-reliant, there is a role for government support during extraordinary economic crises. The key lies in striking a balance between fostering business resilience and preventing widespread economic collapse.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Economic downturns can be very difficult for small businesses. Some people think the government should help these businesses with money, but others say businesses should take care of themselves. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who want government help for small businesses have some good reasons. Small businesses are important for the economy because they give jobs to many people. When the economy is bad, these businesses might have to close if they don’t get help. If the government gives them money or reduces their taxes, it can help them stay open and keep people employed. This can be good for the whole economy.
However, other people think businesses should manage their own money. They say that if businesses always expect help, they might not be careful with their money. These people believe that businesses should save money for hard times and find new ways to make money when things are difficult. They think this makes businesses stronger and better at dealing with problems.
I think both sides have good points, but I agree more with giving some help to small businesses. While businesses should be responsible most of the time, very bad economic times can be too hard for them to handle alone. I believe the government should give some help, but only for a short time and only to businesses that show they are trying hard to improve. This way, we can save good businesses without wasting money on ones that can’t survive.
In conclusion, I think a mix of both ideas is best. Businesses should usually take care of themselves, but some government help during very bad times can be good for everyone.
(Word count: 274)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure – introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, personal opinion, and conclusion. The band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
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Language: The band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Arguments: Both essays present balanced arguments, but the band 8-9 essay explores the ideas in more depth and with greater nuance.
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Opinion: Both essays clearly state a personal opinion, which is crucial for this type of question.
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Word Count: Both essays meet the minimum word count requirement (250 words) for IELTS Writing Task 2.
Vocabulary to Remember
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Economic downturn (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈdaʊntɜːn/: A period of reduced economic activity.
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Financial assistance (noun phrase) /faɪˈnænʃəl əˈsɪstəns/: Help provided in the form of money or financial resources.
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Self-reliance (noun) /ˌself rɪˈlaɪəns/: The ability to depend on oneself.
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Moral hazard (noun) /ˈmɒrəl ˈhæzəd/: A situation where an entity has an incentive to increase its exposure to risk because it does not bear the full costs of that risk.
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Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪəbl/: Capable of working successfully; feasible.
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Prudence (noun) /ˈpruːdns/: The quality of being cautious and careful, especially in business.
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Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
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Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
Economic Downturn Impact
In conclusion, writing about managing small businesses during economic downturns requires a balanced approach, considering both government intervention and business self-reliance. Future IELTS exams might present variations on this theme, such as discussing specific types of government assistance or exploring the long-term effects of economic crises on small businesses. To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This practice will help you refine your arguments and language use for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
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