International trade and its role in reducing poverty is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the current global economic landscape, this subject is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze multiple essay responses across different band scores.
International trade and poverty reduction
Sample IELTS Writing Task 2 Question
Let’s examine a question that closely resembles those found in actual IELTS exams:
Some people believe that international trade is essential for reducing global poverty, while others argue that it mainly benefits wealthy nations. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that international trade helps reduce global poverty
- Discuss the opposing view that international trade mainly benefits wealthy nations
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essays
Band 9 Essay Sample
International trade has long been a contentious issue in the realm of global economics, with proponents highlighting its potential to alleviate poverty and critics arguing that it disproportionately benefits wealthy nations. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on the matter.
Those who advocate for international trade as a means of reducing global poverty often point to the economic growth and job creation it can bring to developing countries. By opening up markets and encouraging foreign investment, international trade can stimulate industrial development and create employment opportunities in sectors such as manufacturing and agriculture. For instance, countries like Vietnam and Bangladesh have seen significant reductions in poverty rates over the past few decades, largely due to their integration into global supply chains and export-oriented industries. Moreover, international trade can lead to technology transfer and knowledge sharing, enabling developing nations to improve their productivity and competitiveness in the global market.
On the other hand, critics argue that international trade primarily benefits wealthy nations and multinational corporations, often at the expense of poorer countries. They contend that the current global trading system is inherently unfair, with developed countries maintaining trade barriers and subsidies that disadvantage developing nations. For example, agricultural subsidies in the United States and European Union can make it difficult for farmers in developing countries to compete in global markets. Additionally, some argue that the pursuit of international trade can lead to a “race to the bottom” in terms of labor standards and environmental regulations, as countries compete to attract foreign investment.
In my opinion, while international trade is not without its challenges and potential drawbacks, it remains a crucial tool for reducing global poverty when implemented thoughtfully and equitably. The key lies in creating a more balanced and fair global trading system that addresses the concerns of both developed and developing nations. This could involve reforming international trade agreements to provide greater protections for workers’ rights and the environment, as well as offering targeted support to help developing countries build the infrastructure and institutions necessary to fully participate in and benefit from global trade.
Furthermore, it is essential to recognize that international trade alone is not a panacea for poverty reduction. It must be complemented by domestic policies that promote education, healthcare, and social safety nets to ensure that the benefits of trade are widely distributed throughout society. By combining the opportunities presented by international trade with strong domestic institutions and policies, countries can work towards sustainable economic development and poverty reduction.
In conclusion, while the relationship between international trade and poverty reduction is complex, I believe that trade remains an essential tool for combating global poverty. However, it is crucial to address the legitimate concerns raised by critics and work towards a more equitable global trading system that benefits all nations, regardless of their level of economic development. (397 words)
Band 7 Essay Sample
International trade and its impact on global poverty is a topic of much debate. While some people believe it is crucial for reducing poverty worldwide, others argue that it mainly benefits rich countries. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and provide my personal opinion.
Those who support international trade as a means to reduce poverty often point to the economic opportunities it creates for developing countries. By participating in global markets, poorer nations can access new customers for their products and attract foreign investment. This can lead to job creation and economic growth, which are essential for lifting people out of poverty. For example, countries like China and India have seen significant reductions in poverty rates since opening up their economies to international trade.
On the other hand, critics argue that international trade primarily benefits wealthy nations and large corporations. They claim that the current global trading system is unfair and often exploits workers in developing countries. Multinational companies may take advantage of lower labor costs and weaker regulations in poorer countries, leading to poor working conditions and environmental degradation. Additionally, some argue that trade agreements often favor developed countries, making it difficult for developing nations to compete on a level playing field.
In my opinion, while international trade has the potential to reduce global poverty, it needs to be implemented in a fair and balanced way. I believe that trade can be a powerful tool for economic development, but it must be accompanied by strong regulations and support for developing countries. This could include measures to protect workers’ rights, promote sustainable development, and provide assistance to help poorer nations build their capacity to participate effectively in global trade.
Furthermore, it is important to recognize that trade alone is not enough to eliminate poverty. Domestic policies, such as investments in education, healthcare, and infrastructure, are also crucial for ensuring that the benefits of trade reach all segments of society. Governments must work to create an environment where the gains from trade can be shared more equitably among their populations.
In conclusion, while international trade has the potential to contribute to poverty reduction, it is not a simple solution. A more balanced approach that addresses the concerns of both developed and developing nations is necessary to ensure that trade truly benefits all countries and helps in the fight against global poverty. (349 words)
Band 6 Essay Sample
International trade is a big topic in today’s world. Some people think it’s very important for reducing poverty around the world, but others say it mostly helps rich countries. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
People who support international trade say it helps poor countries become richer. When poor countries can sell their products to other countries, they can make more money and create jobs. This can help people earn more and have a better life. For example, some countries in Asia have become richer because they started selling things to other countries.
However, some people think international trade is not fair and only helps rich countries. They say big companies from rich countries take advantage of poor countries by paying low wages and not following good environmental rules. Also, they think trade agreements are often better for rich countries, making it hard for poor countries to compete.
In my opinion, international trade can be good for reducing poverty, but it needs to be done in a fair way. I think it’s important to have rules that protect workers and the environment in all countries. Also, rich countries should help poor countries learn how to trade better and develop their economies.
It’s also important to remember that trade alone can’t solve all poverty problems. Countries need to have good schools, healthcare, and other things to help their people. Governments should make sure that the money from trade helps everyone in the country, not just a few rich people.
To conclude, I believe international trade can help reduce poverty if it’s done fairly. But it’s not the only solution, and we need to think about other ways to help poor countries too. (273 words)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 9 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates all the qualities of a Band 9 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, providing a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The essay is error-free apart from very rare ‘slips’.
The essay presents a balanced discussion of both viewpoints and clearly expresses the writer’s own opinion. It uses sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures while maintaining clarity and coherence throughout.
Band 7 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates the key features of a Band 7 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position throughout the response.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, and cohesive devices are used effectively, though occasionally with some over-/under-use.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used to allow some flexibility and precision. Less common lexical items are used, but there may be occasional inaccuracies in word choice and collocation.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex structures is used with some flexibility and accuracy. Grammar and punctuation are generally well-controlled, though a few errors remain in complex language.
The essay presents a clear discussion of both viewpoints and expresses the writer’s opinion. While it demonstrates good control of language, it lacks the sophistication and nuance of the Band 9 essay.
Band 6 Essay Explanation
This essay shows the characteristics of a Band 6 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally arranged coherently, and there is a clear overall progression. Cohesive devices are used but may be overused or underused.
- Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. Some attempt at using less common vocabulary is made, but with some inaccuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. While errors occur, they do not impede communication.
The essay presents a basic discussion of both viewpoints and includes the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas are less developed compared to the higher band essays, and the language used is simpler and less precise.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Alleviate (verb, /əˈliːvieɪt/): To make a problem or suffering less severe.
- Contention (noun, /kənˈtenʃən/): Disagreement or argument.
- Disproportionately (adverb, /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənətli/): To a degree that is too large or too small in comparison to something else.
- Integration (noun, /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/): The action or process of combining two or more things in an effective way.
- Panacea (noun, /ˌpænəˈsiːə/): A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases.
- Equitable (adjective, /ˈekwɪtəbl/): Fair and impartial.
- Exploitation (noun, /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/): The action of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work.
- Degradation (noun, /ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/): The process of becoming worse or less in quality, value, or character.
- Stimulate (verb, /ˈstɪmjuleɪt/): To encourage or promote activity or development.
- Competitiveness (noun, /kəmˈpetɪtɪvnəs/): The quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature.
Conclusion
The role of international trade in reducing poverty is a complex and multifaceted topic that is likely to continue appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for this and similar questions, it’s crucial to:
- Understand different perspectives on the issue
- Be familiar with relevant examples and case studies
- Practice articulating your own opinion while acknowledging opposing viewpoints
- Develop a range of vocabulary related to economics, trade, and global development
Some potential related topics you might encounter in future IELTS exams include:
- The impact of globalization on local economies
- The role of international organizations in regulating global trade
- The relationship between trade policies and environmental protection
- The effects of trade barriers on developing countries
To further improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your arguments, improve your language use, and gain confidence in tackling complex IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.