Flexible working hours have become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. This subject has appeared in various forms over the past few years, reflecting the changing dynamics of modern workplaces. Based on recent trends, it’s likely that questions related to flexible working arrangements will continue to be featured in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS tests:
Some people believe that companies should allow employees to have flexible working hours. Others think that fixed working hours are better for companies and employees. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents a balanced argument topic, requiring candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide their personal opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- The potential benefits and drawbacks of flexible working hours for both companies and employees
- The advantages and disadvantages of fixed working hours
- A well-reasoned personal stance on which approach is more beneficial overall
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s rapidly evolving work environment, the debate between flexible and fixed working hours has gained significant traction. While some argue that flexibility in work schedules can lead to increased productivity and employee satisfaction, others maintain that a structured timetable is essential for efficient business operations. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of flexible working hours argue that this approach can significantly enhance employee well-being and productivity. By allowing workers to choose their most productive hours, companies can tap into their staff’s peak performance times. For instance, early risers might prefer to start work at 7 AM, while night owls could be more effective working later in the day. This flexibility can lead to improved work-life balance, reducing stress and burnout among employees. Moreover, flexible schedules can help companies attract and retain top talent, particularly millennials and Gen Z workers who value autonomy in their work lives.
Benefits of Flexible Work Schedule
On the other hand, advocates of fixed working hours contend that a structured schedule is crucial for effective teamwork and communication. When all employees are present during the same hours, it facilitates easier collaboration and real-time problem-solving. Fixed hours also ensure that clients and customers know exactly when they can reach company representatives, which is particularly important in client-facing industries. Furthermore, some argue that a regular routine helps employees maintain a clear boundary between work and personal life, preventing work from encroaching on leisure time.
In my opinion, while both approaches have merit, a hybrid model that combines elements of both flexible and fixed working hours could be the most beneficial solution for many companies. This could involve having core hours where all employees are required to be present, with flexibility allowed around these fixed periods. Such an arrangement would preserve the benefits of team collaboration while still offering employees some degree of autonomy over their schedules. Additionally, this approach acknowledges that different roles within a company may require varying levels of flexibility.
Illustration of Hybrid Work Model
In conclusion, the choice between flexible and fixed working hours is not a one-size-fits-all solution. Companies should carefully consider their specific needs, industry requirements, and employee preferences when deciding on work schedules. By striking a balance between structure and flexibility, organizations can create a work environment that maximizes productivity while also prioritizing employee satisfaction and well-being.
(Word count: 374)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion. It offers a nuanced perspective by suggesting a hybrid model.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central theme, and ideas are logically connected using appropriate linking words and phrases.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise. Examples include “traction,” “encroaching,” and “hybrid model.” The language is natural and idiomatic.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, there is a debate about whether companies should allow flexible working hours or stick to fixed schedules. This essay will discuss both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
On one hand, flexible working hours can be good for employees and companies. When workers can choose their own times, they might feel happier and work better. For example, some people like to start early in the morning, while others prefer to work late at night. Flexible hours can help people balance their work and personal life better, which can reduce stress. Also, companies might save money on office space if not everyone is working at the same time.
On the other hand, fixed working hours have some advantages too. When everyone works at the same time, it’s easier for teams to work together and have meetings. This can be important for projects that need a lot of cooperation. Fixed hours also make it easier for customers to know when they can contact the company. Some people think that having a regular schedule helps separate work time from personal time, which can be good for mental health.
In my opinion, I think a mix of both flexible and fixed hours could be the best solution. Companies could have some core hours when everyone must be working, but allow flexibility around these times. This way, teams can still meet and work together, but employees also get some freedom to choose their schedules. How remote working affects work-life balance is an important factor to consider in this debate.
To conclude, both flexible and fixed working hours have their pros and cons. The best choice depends on the type of company and the kind of work being done. A balanced approach that combines both might be the most effective way to keep both employees and businesses happy.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed and supported.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. There is a logical progression of ideas, although the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempts at more sophisticated words. However, there is less precision and variety compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication, but the range is more limited than in higher band scores.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
In these days, some people think companies should let workers choose their working hours. But others believe fixed hours are better. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Flexible hours can be good because workers can choose when to work. Some people like to work early, some like to work late. This can make workers happy and maybe they will work harder. Also, it can help people have time for family and other things in life. Companies might save money on office space too.
But fixed hours also have good points. When everyone works at the same time, it’s easier to have meetings and work together. Customers know when they can call the company. Some people think fixed hours help keep work and home life separate.
Advantages of Fixed Work Hours
I think maybe a mix of both could be good. Companies could have some hours when everyone must work, but let people choose other times. This way, people can still meet and work together, but also have some freedom.
In conclusion, flexible and fixed hours both have good and bad points. The effects of work-from-home policies on urban traffic is another important topic to consider. Different companies might need different things. A mix of both might be the best way.
(Word count: 209)
Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay
This essay demonstrates qualities that align with Band 5-6 criteria:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, presenting both views and an opinion. However, the ideas are underdeveloped and lack depth.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic organizational structure, but paragraphing and use of cohesive devices are limited.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is simple and repetitive, with limited range and precision.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses mainly simple sentences with limited complexity. There are some errors, but they do not significantly impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Flexible working hours (noun phrase) – /ˈfleksəbəl ˈwɜːkɪŋ ˈaʊəz/ – Work schedules that allow employees to vary their arrival and departure times.
- Work-life balance (noun phrase) – /wɜːk laɪf ˈbæləns/ – The equilibrium between one’s job and personal life.
- Productivity (noun) – /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – The efficiency of productive effort, especially in industry.
- Autonomy (noun) – /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – Freedom to determine one’s own actions, behavior, etc.
- Collaboration (noun) – /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃn/ – The action of working with someone to produce something.
- Burnout (noun) – /ˈbɜːnaʊt/ – Physical or mental collapse caused by overwork or stress.
- Hybrid model (noun phrase) – /ˈhaɪbrɪd ˈmɒdl/ – A system that combines elements of different approaches.
- Core hours (noun phrase) – /kɔː ˈaʊəz/ – A period during the workday when all employees are expected to be present.
- Encroach (verb) – /ɪnˈkrəʊtʃ/ – To intrude on (a person’s territory, rights, personal life, etc.).
- Traction (noun) – /ˈtrækʃn/ – The extent to which an idea, product, etc. gains popularity or acceptance.
In conclusion, the topic of flexible working hours is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as work-life balance, remote work policies, and the impact of technology on traditional work structures. Remember to always analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and aim to demonstrate a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures in your writing. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement!