IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on “Should Countries Open Their Borders to Refugees?” (Band 6-9)

The topic of whether countries should open their borders to refugees is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This question touches on complex global issues such as human rights, national security, and economic impact. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current global trends, this topic is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a specific question on this subject and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Refugees crossing border

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that countries should open their borders to refugees, while others think that countries should focus on taking care of their own citizens first. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss arguments for opening borders to refugees
2. Discuss arguments for prioritizing citizens
3. Provide a personal opinion on the issue

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and maintain a balanced approach while clearly stating your own perspective.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Immigration and refugee policies have become increasingly contentious issues in recent years, with some advocating for open borders while others prioritize domestic concerns. This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing that a balanced approach is necessary.

Those in favor of welcoming refugees often cite humanitarian reasons. They argue that countries have a moral obligation to assist those fleeing war, persecution, or natural disasters. Furthermore, proponents contend that refugees can contribute positively to host nations by filling labor shortages and enriching cultural diversity. For instance, Germany’s decision to accept a large number of Syrian refugees in 2015 has, in many cases, led to successful integration and economic contributions.

On the other hand, those who prioritize domestic issues argue that a country’s primary responsibility is to its own citizens. They express concerns about the strain on public services, potential security risks, and cultural tensions that may arise from a large influx of refugees. Critics often point to examples where rapid demographic changes have led to social unrest or economic challenges, such as increased competition for low-wage jobs.

In my opinion, while countries have a humanitarian duty to assist refugees, this must be balanced with domestic considerations. I believe that a nuanced approach, involving controlled admission of refugees coupled with robust integration programs, can address both humanitarian needs and domestic concerns. This could involve setting annual quotas based on a country’s capacity, implementing thorough vetting processes, and providing comprehensive support for both refugees and host communities.

In conclusion, the refugee question requires a delicate balance between compassion and pragmatism. By adopting measured policies that consider both international obligations and domestic realities, countries can contribute to global humanitarian efforts while ensuring the wellbeing of their own citizens. (276 words)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphing is appropriate, and cohesive devices are used effectively.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example: “contentious issues”, “humanitarian obligation”, “cultural diversity”, “demographic changes”.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. For instance: “Those in favor of welcoming refugees often cite humanitarian reasons” (complex subject), “By adopting measured policies that consider both international obligations and domestic realities” (complex sentence structure).

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples, showing depth of critical thinking.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of whether countries should open their borders to refugees or focus on their own citizens is a difficult one. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

People who think countries should accept refugees say it’s the right thing to do. Refugees are often running away from terrible situations like war or natural disasters, and they need help. Also, refugees can sometimes help the economy of the country they move to by working in jobs that need people. For example, some countries have an aging population and need young workers.

On the other hand, people who think countries should focus on their own citizens worry about problems that might happen. They think refugees might take jobs away from local people or use up resources like healthcare or housing that citizens need. Some people also worry that refugees might not fit in with the local culture or might cause security problems.

In my opinion, I think countries should try to help refugees but also take care of their own people. Maybe they could let in a certain number of refugees each year that they can support properly. They should also have good plans to help refugees settle in and learn the language and culture of their new country.

To sum up, this is a complex issue with good arguments on both sides. I believe a balanced approach that helps refugees while also considering the needs of citizens is the best way forward. (228 words)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates competence in several areas, but with some limitations:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated. For example, “On the other hand” is used correctly, but there’s less variety in linking words.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay. For example, “terrible situations” instead of more specific terms like “persecution” or “conflict”.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, but with less variety than the Band 8-9 essay. There are no significant errors, but the structures are less sophisticated.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but with less depth and fewer specific examples compared to the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Refugee (noun) /ˌrefju’dʒiː/ – a person who has been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.

2. Immigration (noun) /ˌɪmɪ’greɪʃn/ – the action of coming to live permanently in a foreign country.

3. Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmænɪ’teəriən/ – concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare.

4. Integration (noun) /ˌɪntɪ’greɪʃn/ – the action or process of integrating, especially the bringing of people of different racial or ethnic groups into unrestricted and equal association.

5. Assimilation (noun) /əˌsɪmɪ’leɪʃn/ – the process of taking in and fully understanding information or ideas.

6. Vetting (noun) /’vetɪŋ/ – the process of investigating someone thoroughly, especially before giving them a job or official position.

7. Xenophobia (noun) /ˌzenə’fəʊbiə/ – dislike of or prejudice against people from other countries.

8. Asylum seeker (noun) /ə’saɪləm ˌsiːkə/ – a person who has left their home country as a political refugee and is seeking asylum in another.

Conclusion

The topic of refugees and border policies is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, consider practicing with variations of this question, such as:

• Discuss the economic impacts of accepting refugees.
• Should developed countries have a greater responsibility to accept refugees?
• How can countries balance national security concerns with humanitarian obligations?

Remember to always address all parts of the question, provide relevant examples, and clearly state your own opinion. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.