Small businesses are the backbone of many economies, and the question of whether governments should support them is a frequent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This essay type has appeared multiple times in recent years and is likely to continue being a popular choice for examiners. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on a specific question that has been asked in past IELTS exams.

Analyzing the Essay Question

Some people think that governments should provide financial assistance to small businesses to help them survive and grow. Others believe that this is not the government’s responsibility. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints regarding government support for small businesses and then provide their own opinion. It’s crucial to address both perspectives equally before stating and justifying your personal stance.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

The role of government in supporting small businesses is a contentious issue, with valid arguments on both sides. While some advocate for financial assistance from the state, others believe businesses should be self-reliant. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Proponents of government support argue that small businesses are vital for economic growth and job creation. They contend that financial aid, such as low-interest loans or tax breaks, can help these enterprises overcome initial hurdles and establish themselves in competitive markets. Moreover, government assistance can foster innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in sectors that might be overlooked by larger corporations. This view is supported by the success of many start-ups in countries with strong government backing for small businesses.

On the other hand, opponents argue that it is not the government’s responsibility to prop up private enterprises. They believe that market forces should determine which businesses succeed or fail, and that government intervention can lead to inefficiencies and unfair competition. Furthermore, they contend that taxpayers’ money should not be used to support private ventures that may or may not succeed. This perspective emphasizes the importance of self-reliance and fiscal responsibility in the business world.

In my opinion, while I acknowledge the merits of both arguments, I believe that targeted government support for small businesses can be beneficial for the overall economy. However, this support should be carefully managed to avoid creating dependency or distorting market dynamics. For instance, governments could focus on providing infrastructure, education, and training to create an environment conducive to small business growth, rather than direct financial handouts. Additionally, support could be tailored to sectors that align with national economic goals or address specific societal needs.

In conclusion, while the debate on government support for small businesses is complex, I believe that well-designed assistance programs can play a crucial role in fostering economic growth and innovation. The key lies in striking a balance between providing necessary support and maintaining a competitive, self-sustaining business environment.

Government support for small businesses through infrastructure

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

The question of whether governments should provide financial help to small businesses is a topic of debate. Some people think it’s a good idea, while others disagree. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support government help for small businesses say it’s important for the economy. They think that small companies create jobs and help the country grow. If the government gives money or reduces taxes for these businesses, it can help them start and grow. This is especially important in difficult economic times when small businesses might struggle to survive.

However, other people believe that the government shouldn’t help private businesses. They think that businesses should be able to survive on their own without government money. They worry that using taxpayers’ money to help some businesses isn’t fair to others. Also, they think that if a business can’t survive without help, maybe it’s not a good business.

In my opinion, I think some government support for small businesses can be good, but it needs to be done carefully. Instead of just giving money, the government could help by improving education and training for business owners. They could also make it easier to start a business by reducing complicated rules. This way, they can help create a good environment for small businesses without directly interfering in the market.

To conclude, while there are good arguments on both sides, I believe that some government support for small businesses can be beneficial if it’s done in the right way. The focus should be on creating opportunities and removing obstacles, rather than just providing financial aid.

Sample Essay 3: Band 5-6 Response

Some people think governments should give money to small businesses to help them. Other people think this is not the government’s job. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

People who want government help for small businesses say it’s good for the country. Small businesses make jobs and help the economy grow. If the government gives them money or lower taxes, they can start easier and grow bigger. This can be very helpful when the economy is bad.

But some people don’t agree. They think businesses should work on their own without government help. They say it’s not fair to use money from taxes to help some businesses but not others. They also think that if a business needs help to survive, maybe it’s not a good business.

I think both sides have good points. But I believe some government help for small businesses can be good. The government could help by making it easier to start a business and by giving training to business owners. This can help businesses without giving them direct money.

In conclusion, I think governments can help small businesses, but they should be careful how they do it. It’s better to help create good conditions for businesses than to just give them money.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
• Presents a clear position throughout the response
• Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
• Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
• Ideas are coherently organized with clear progression throughout

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
• Presents a relevant position, though conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
• Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some errors in word choice
• Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors
• Information and ideas are arranged coherently with overall progression

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
• Expresses a position but development is not always clear
• Uses a limited range of vocabulary with some repetition and inappropriate word choice
• Uses only a limited range of structures with some errors in grammar
• Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Financial assistance (noun) – /fəˈnænʃəl əˈsɪstəns/ – monetary help or support
2. Entrepreneurship (noun) – /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – the activity of setting up a business
3. Market forces (noun) – /ˈmɑːkɪt ˈfɔːsɪz/ – economic factors affecting the price and availability of goods and services
4. Fiscal responsibility (noun) – /ˈfɪskəl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – the obligation to manage public funds prudently
5. Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical structures needed for the operation of a society
6. Self-reliance (noun) – /ˌsɛlf rɪˈlaɪəns/ – reliance on one’s own powers and resources rather than those of others
7. Distorting (verb) – /dɪˈstɔːtɪŋ/ – giving a misleading or false account or impression of something
8. Conducive (adjective) – /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible

Conclusion

Understanding how to approach the topic of government support for small businesses in IELTS Writing Task 2 is crucial for achieving a high band score. By analyzing the sample essays and explanations provided, you can improve your writing skills and develop a better understanding of what examiners are looking for in high-scoring responses.

To further enhance your preparation, consider practicing with similar topics that may appear in future IELTS exams, such as:

1. The role of government in regulating small businesses
2. The impact of globalization on local small businesses
3. The balance between supporting small businesses and large corporations

Remember to focus on addressing all parts of the question, developing your ideas clearly, and using a range of appropriate vocabulary and grammatical structures. Practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with other learners. This active approach to learning will help you become more confident and proficient in IELTS Writing Task 2.