Economic growth and sustainability have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2020-2023. This topic frequently emerges in various forms, particularly in questions about environmental protection, technological advancement, and social development. Based on analysis of past papers, here’s a highly relevant question that captures this theme:
Some people believe that economic growth is the key to a nation’s success, while others argue that other factors like environmental protection and social welfare are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of Question
- Topic: Economic growth vs other development factors
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Key points to address:
- Economic growth perspective
- Environmental/social welfare perspective
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate between prioritizing economic growth and other developmental factors has become increasingly prominent in modern society. While some consider economic prosperity the primary indicator of national success, I believe a balanced approach incorporating environmental and social considerations is more crucial for sustainable development.
Those who advocate for economic growth as the primary measure of success present compelling arguments. Strong economic performance enables nations to invest in crucial infrastructure, healthcare, and education systems. For instance, rapidly developing economies like South Korea have transformed from poverty to prosperity within decades, demonstrating how economic growth can elevate living standards and technological capabilities. Furthermore, robust economies are better positioned to fund research and innovation, which can lead to breakthroughs in various fields.
However, pursuing economic growth at the expense of environmental protection and social welfare can be detrimental. The environmental degradation witnessed in many industrialized nations serves as a cautionary tale. Countries like China, despite achieving remarkable economic growth, now face severe air pollution and environmental challenges that affect public health and quality of life. Similarly, neglecting social welfare can lead to increased inequality and social unrest, undermining the very prosperity that economic growth aims to achieve.
In my view, the most sustainable approach is one that balances economic development with environmental stewardship and social progress. Countries like Denmark and Norway demonstrate how this equilibrium can be achieved, maintaining strong economies while leading in environmental protection and social welfare. This integrated approach ensures long-term prosperity without compromising future generations’ needs.
Sustainable development goals implementation in modern society
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
There is a big discussion about what makes a country successful. Some people think making money is most important, but others care more about nature and people’s welfare. I think both are important but we need to be careful about the environment.
Economic growth is very important for many reasons. When countries have more money, they can build better hospitals and schools. For example, in my country, when the economy grew, more people could go to university and get good jobs. Also, rich countries can help poor people more and build better roads and buildings.
But focusing only on money can cause problems. Many factories make air and water dirty, which makes people sick. In big cities like Beijing, people sometimes cannot go outside because the air is too polluted. Also, if companies only think about profit, workers might have bad conditions and low salaries.
I believe countries should try to grow their economy but not harm nature. For example, using solar power instead of coal can help make money without pollution. Also, governments should make sure companies treat workers fairly and protect the environment.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts with well-developed ideas
- Coherence/Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary used naturally
- Grammar: Wide range of complex structures
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses main points but less developed
- Coherence/Cohesion: Basic organization with some progression
- Lexical Resource: Adequate but simpler vocabulary
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – capable of continuing without depleting resources
- equilibrium (n) /ˌiːkwɪˈlɪbriəm/ – state of balance
- environmental stewardship (n) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈstjuːərdʃɪp/ – responsible use of natural resources
- degradation (n) /ˌdegrəˈdeɪʃn/ – deterioration of quality
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical systems of a country
In conclusion, this topic remains crucial for IELTS candidates. Practice with similar questions about technological progress versus environmental protection, or economic development versus cultural preservation. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement.
