IELTS Writing Task 2: Expert Guide to Reducing the Gap Between Rich and Poor (Band 7-9 Sample Essays)

The topic of income inequality and how countries can reduce the gap between the rich and the poor is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests due to its global relevance and increasing economic disparities worldwide. Let’s explore this important topic through expert analysis and sample essays for different band scores.

Analyzing the Task 2 Question

Let’s examine a common IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

In many countries, the gap between the rich and the poor is increasing. What problems does this cause? What measures can be taken to reduce this gap?

This question is a typical example of a problem-solution essay. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the problems caused by the growing wealth gap
2. Propose measures to reduce this inequality

The question tests your ability to analyze societal issues, think critically about causes and effects, and suggest practical solutions. It also assesses your skills in organizing ideas coherently and using appropriate vocabulary and grammar.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the question:

The widening chasm between the affluent and the impoverished in numerous nations is an alarming trend that poses significant challenges to society. This essay will explore the problems stemming from this growing disparity and propose measures to mitigate it.

The increasing wealth gap engenders several critical issues. Firstly, it exacerbates social tension and unrest, as the less fortunate may feel disenfranchised and resentful towards the wealthy elite. This can lead to political instability and, in extreme cases, civil unrest. Secondly, economic inequality often perpetuates a cycle of poverty, with limited access to quality education and healthcare for lower-income groups, thereby hindering social mobility. Lastly, a stark wealth divide can stifle economic growth by reducing consumer spending power among a large segment of the population.

To address these challenges, governments and societies can implement various measures. One crucial step is to reform tax systems, introducing more progressive taxation where higher earners contribute a larger share of their income. This can help redistribute wealth and fund social programs. Additionally, investing in comprehensive education and vocational training programs can equip individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds with the skills needed to secure better-paying jobs. Governments should also focus on creating inclusive economic policies that promote job creation and entrepreneurship across all sectors of society.

Another effective approach is to strengthen social safety nets, including unemployment benefits, affordable healthcare, and housing assistance. These programs can provide a buffer against extreme poverty and help reduce the gap between socioeconomic classes. Furthermore, implementing policies to curb excessive executive compensation and encouraging corporate social responsibility can help distribute corporate profits more equitably.

In conclusion, the growing divide between the rich and poor presents significant societal challenges that require multi-faceted solutions. By implementing progressive taxation, investing in education and skills training, strengthening social welfare programs, and promoting more equitable corporate practices, countries can work towards reducing this gap and fostering a more balanced and harmonious society.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing problems and proposing measures in detail.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked using cohesive devices (e.g., “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “Additionally”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “exacerbates,” “disenfranchised,” “perpetuates,” “mitigate”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with explanations and examples.

Income Inequality Chart

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

The gap between rich and poor people is getting bigger in many countries. This causes problems and needs to be fixed. In this essay, I will talk about the problems this causes and some ways to reduce the gap.

When the gap between rich and poor gets bigger, it causes several problems. First, it can make poor people feel angry and upset with rich people. This can lead to problems in society and sometimes even protests or violence. Also, when there is a big gap, poor people often can’t get good education or healthcare, which makes it hard for them to improve their lives. This means their children might also stay poor, creating a cycle of poverty.

To reduce this gap, governments can do several things. One important thing is to change the tax system. Rich people should pay more taxes, and this money can be used to help poor people. Another good idea is to improve education for everyone. If poor people can get better education, they can get better jobs and earn more money. The government can also create more jobs and help small businesses, which can give more opportunities to poor people.

Another way to help is to provide better support for poor people. This can include things like unemployment benefits, cheap housing, and free healthcare. These things can help poor people have a better life and maybe save some money to improve their situation.

In conclusion, the growing gap between rich and poor is a big problem that needs to be solved. By changing taxes, improving education, creating jobs, and providing better support for poor people, countries can try to make this gap smaller. This will help create a fairer and more stable society for everyone.

(Word count: 282)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates qualities that would likely place it in the Band 6-7 range:

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

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “Also” and “Another”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay. Some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “cycle of poverty”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar. However, it lacks the sophistication and flexibility seen in higher band essays.

5. Development of Ideas: Main points are present and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is less than in the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary for This Topic

Here are some important vocabulary items related to this topic:

1. Income inequality (n.) – /ˈɪnkʌm ɪnɪˈkwɒlɪti/ – The extent to which income is distributed unevenly in a group of people
2. Wealth disparity (n.) – /welθ dɪˈspærɪti/ – The unequal distribution of assets among residents of a society
3. Socioeconomic (adj.) – /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – Related to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors
4. Progressive taxation (n.) – /prəˈɡresɪv tækˈseɪʃn/ – A tax system where the tax rate increases as the taxable amount increases
5. Social mobility (n.) – /ˈsəʊʃl məʊˈbɪlɪti/ – The ability of individuals or groups to move within a society’s social strata
6. Redistribution of wealth (n.) – /ˌriːdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃn əv welθ/ – The transfer of income, wealth, or property from some individuals to others through social mechanisms
7. Economic disparity (n.) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk dɪˈspærɪti/ – A significant difference in economic well-being between individuals or groups
8. Social safety net (n.) – /ˈsəʊʃl ˈseɪfti net/ – A collection of services provided by the state to support those with little or no income
9. Inclusive growth (n.) – /ɪnˈkluːsɪv ɡrəʊθ/ – Economic growth that creates opportunity for all segments of the population
10. Wage stagnation (n.) – /weɪdʒ stæɡˈneɪʃn/ – A situation where real wages (adjusted for inflation) remain static or grow very slowly

Conclusion

The topic of reducing the gap between the rich and poor is a complex and important issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key aspects of this topic and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to write a high-scoring response.

For further practice, consider writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:

• “Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing income inequality, while others argue that economic growth should be the priority. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
• “In many countries, a small number of people earn extremely high salaries. Some people believe that this is good for the country, but others think that governments should control salaries and limit the amount people can earn. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.”

Remember to focus on clear organization, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and fully develop your ideas with explanations and examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.