Globalization’s impact on small businesses is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and historical data from various IELTS preparation websites, this theme has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and analysis, focusing on a specific question that encapsulates the core issues.
Globalization impact on small businesses
Analyzing the Question
Some people say that globalization has negatively affected local businesses. Others believe it has given local companies more opportunities to grow. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the negative effects of globalization on local businesses
- Explore the positive opportunities globalization offers to local companies
- Provide a personal opinion on the overall impact
Let’s examine three sample essays addressing this question, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Globalization, the process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies, has been a double-edged sword for local businesses. While some argue that it has adversely impacted small-scale enterprises, others contend that it has opened up new avenues for growth. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
On one hand, globalization has undeniably posed significant challenges to local businesses. The influx of multinational corporations into local markets has often resulted in intense competition, potentially overwhelming smaller, less-resourced companies. For instance, when large retail chains like Walmart enter new markets, they can leverage their economies of scale to offer lower prices, potentially driving local shops out of business. Moreover, the homogenization of consumer preferences due to global marketing campaigns can erode the unique selling points of local products and services.
Conversely, globalization has also created unprecedented opportunities for local businesses to expand their reach. The advent of e-commerce platforms and digital marketing has enabled even small enterprises to access global markets, transcending geographical limitations. A artisanal cheese maker in a small French village, for example, can now sell their products to connoisseurs worldwide through online marketplaces. Additionally, globalization has facilitated access to a wider range of suppliers, potentially reducing costs and improving product quality for local businesses.
In my opinion, while globalization presents both challenges and opportunities, its overall impact on local businesses depends largely on their ability to adapt and innovate. Those that can leverage technology, understand global trends, and offer unique value propositions can thrive in this interconnected world. However, it is crucial for governments and international organizations to implement policies that create a level playing field, ensuring that the benefits of globalization are more equitably distributed.
In conclusion, globalization’s effect on local businesses is nuanced and multifaceted. While it has undoubtedly intensified competition and disrupted traditional business models, it has also opened up new horizons for growth and innovation. The key lies in fostering an environment where local businesses can harness the opportunities of globalization while mitigating its negative impacts.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both negative and positive aspects of globalization on local businesses and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On one hand”, “Conversely”, “Moreover”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay showcases a wide range of vocabulary used with full flexibility and precision (e.g., “double-edged sword”, “influx”, “homogenization”, “unprecedented”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are used effectively throughout.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Globalization has changed the way businesses operate around the world. Some people think it has had a negative impact on local companies, while others believe it has created more opportunities for them to grow. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On the negative side, globalization has made it harder for small local businesses to compete. Big international companies can often sell products at lower prices because they buy in bulk and have more efficient systems. This can make it difficult for local shops to stay in business. For example, many small bookstores have closed because they can’t compete with online giants like Amazon.
However, there are also positive aspects of globalization for local businesses. The internet and social media have made it possible for small companies to reach customers all over the world. A local craftsperson can now sell their handmade items to people in other countries through websites like Etsy. Also, globalization means local businesses can buy materials and products from different countries, which might be cheaper or better quality.
In my opinion, globalization has both good and bad effects on local businesses. While it has made competition tougher, it has also created new opportunities. I think the overall impact depends on how well local businesses can adapt to the changing market.
To conclude, globalization has brought challenges and opportunities for local businesses. It’s important for these companies to find ways to use the advantages of globalization while also keeping what makes them unique and valuable to their local customers.
(Word count: 267)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good competence in several areas:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion of each view and the personal opinion could be more developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with clear paragraphing and some use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, though it’s less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay. Some attempt at using less common vocabulary is evident (e.g., “efficient systems”, “craftsperson”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control.
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Development of Ideas: Main ideas are relevant, but some points could be extended further or supported with more specific examples.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Globalization is when countries trade and communicate more with each other. Some people think it’s bad for local businesses, but others think it’s good. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
First, globalization can be bad for local businesses. Big companies from other countries can come and sell things cheaper. This makes it hard for small local shops to stay open. For example, small shops might close when a big supermarket opens nearby.
But globalization can also help local businesses. They can sell their products to people in other countries using the internet. This means they can make more money. Also, they can buy things from other countries that might be cheaper.
I think globalization is both good and bad for local businesses. It makes things harder for some businesses, but it also gives new chances to others. It depends on how the business can change and use new technology.
In conclusion, globalization affects local businesses in different ways. It’s important for businesses to try to use the good things about globalization while still being special to local customers.
(Word count: 174)
Essay Analysis (Band 5-6)
This essay demonstrates modest competence in several areas:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task, but the points are underdeveloped and the personal opinion is simplistic.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure, but the use of cohesive devices is limited and sometimes repetitive.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with few attempts at using less common words.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mainly simple sentences are used, with limited accuracy in more complex structures.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but lack depth and specific examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Globalization (noun) – /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of businesses or other organizations developing international influence or starting to operate on an international scale.
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Interconnectedness (noun) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/ – The state of being connected with each other.
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Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
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Influx (noun) – /ˈɪnflʌks/ – An arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things.
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Homogenization (noun) – /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of making things uniform or similar.
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Artisanal (adjective) – /ɑːtɪˈzænəl/ – Relating to or characteristic of an artisan’s work.
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Unprecedented (adjective) – /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – Never done or known before.
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Connoisseur (noun) – /ˌkɒnəˈsɜː(r)/ – An expert judge in matters of taste.
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Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
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Transcending (verb) – /trænˈsendɪŋ/ – Going beyond the range or limits of something.
Conclusion
The impact of globalization on small businesses is a complex and relevant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen through these sample essays, the key to success lies in presenting a balanced argument, supporting points with specific examples, and demonstrating a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of government in protecting local businesses in a globalized economy
- The impact of e-commerce on traditional retail businesses
- The challenges and opportunities of international expansion for small businesses
Remember, the best way to improve your writing skills is through consistent practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.