IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Gender Diversity in Leadership Roles (Band 7-9 Sample Answers)

The topic of gender diversity in leadership roles has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and historical data from reputable IELTS websites, this subject is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. To help you prepare effectively, we’ve selected a relevant question that closely resembles those found in actual IELTS exams:

Some people think that there should be more women in leadership positions in business and politics. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to express their opinion on the importance of increasing female representation in leadership roles across business and political spheres. Key points to consider:

1. The statement presents a view held by “some people.”
2. It focuses on two specific areas: business and politics.
3. The question asks for your level of agreement or disagreement.
4. You need to support your stance with relevant examples and reasoning.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that demonstrates excellent language use, coherence, and argumentation:

I strongly agree that there should be more women in leadership positions in both business and politics. This increase in gender diversity at the top levels of organizations and governments can bring numerous benefits to society and the economy.

Firstly, having more women in leadership roles can lead to better decision-making and problem-solving. Women often bring different perspectives and experiences to the table, which can result in more comprehensive and innovative solutions. For example, research has shown that companies with gender-diverse boards tend to perform better financially and are more likely to implement environmentally friendly policies.

Group of diverse leaders having a meeting

Moreover, increased female representation in leadership can inspire and motivate younger generations of women. When girls and young women see successful female leaders in various fields, it can boost their aspirations and confidence, encouraging them to pursue ambitious career paths. This positive cycle can help break down long-standing gender stereotypes and create a more equitable society.

In the political realm, having more women in positions of power can lead to more balanced policy-making. Women leaders may be more likely to prioritize issues such as healthcare, education, and social welfare, which can benefit society as a whole. Countries like New Zealand and Finland, with female prime ministers, have been praised for their effective handling of crises like the COVID-19 pandemic, demonstrating the value of diverse leadership styles.

A female politician delivering a powerful speech

However, it is important to note that simply increasing the number of women in leadership roles is not enough. Organizations and governments must also create supportive environments that allow women to thrive and contribute effectively. This includes implementing policies to address work-life balance, combating gender bias, and providing mentorship opportunities.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that increasing the proportion of women in leadership positions across business and politics is crucial for creating a more balanced, innovative, and equitable society. While progress has been made in recent years, continued efforts are needed to break down barriers and create truly inclusive leadership structures.

(Word count: 309)

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay would likely receive a Band 8-9 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise, with a wide range of words used accurately (e.g., “comprehensive,” “innovative,” “equitable”).
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors.
5. Development and Support: Each main point is well-supported with specific examples and explanations.

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

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

I agree that there should be more women in leadership positions in business and politics. This can bring many good things to our society and economy.

First, having more women leaders can help make better decisions. Women often have different ideas and experiences, which can lead to new solutions to problems. For example, some studies show that companies with both men and women in charge often do better and make more money.

A diverse team collaborating on a project

Also, when young girls see women in important jobs, it can inspire them. This can make them want to work hard and become leaders too. It helps to change old ideas about what women can do.

In politics, more women leaders can help make laws that are good for everyone. Women might care more about things like health and education, which are important for all people. Some countries with women leaders, like New Zealand, have done well in dealing with big problems like COVID-19.

But it’s not enough to just have more women leaders. We also need to make sure that workplaces are fair and supportive for women. This means having rules that help women balance work and family, and stopping people from treating women unfairly.

To sum up, I think having more women in top jobs in business and politics is very important. It can help make our society better and fairer. We have made some progress, but we need to keep working to give women more chances to be leaders.

(Word count: 249)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay would likely receive a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the task and presents a clear position, 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.
3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.
5. Development and Support: Main points are supported, but examples and explanations are less detailed and specific.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Gender diversity (noun) – The equitable or fair representation of people of different genders
2. Leadership role (noun phrase) – A position of authority or influence within an organization
3. Representation (noun) – /ˌreprɪzenˈteɪʃn/ – The action of speaking or acting on behalf of someone or the state of being so represented
4. Equitable (adjective) – /ˈekwɪtəbl/ – Fair and impartial
5. Innovative (adjective) – /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – Featuring new methods; advanced and original
6. Aspiration (noun) – /ˌæspəˈreɪʃn/ – A hope or ambition of achieving something
7. Stereotype (noun) – /ˈsteriəʊtaɪp/ – A widely held but fixed and oversimplified image or idea of a particular type of person or thing
8. Work-life balance (noun phrase) – The division of one’s time and focus between working and family or leisure activities
9. Mentorship (noun) – /ˈmentɔːʃɪp/ – The guidance provided by a mentor, especially an experienced person in a company or educational institution
10. Inclusive (adjective) – /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ – Not excluding any section of society or any party involved in something

Conclusion

The topic of gender diversity in leadership roles is crucial in today’s global context and is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The impact of gender quotas in corporate boards
2. Challenges faced by women in attaining leadership positions
3. The role of education in promoting gender equality in the workplace
4. Comparing leadership styles between men and women
5. The economic benefits of gender diversity in top management

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. For additional practice, try writing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.

Students focused on improving their writing skills

To further enhance your understanding of gender diversity in leadership, you may want to explore related topics such as cultural influences on school leadership and governance and the importance of promoting diversity in workplaces. These resources can provide valuable insights and vocabulary to strengthen your essays on this subject.