Gender equality in the workplace has been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2020-2023. The theme often intersects with employment, social justice, and economic development. Based on analysis of past exams, here’s a relevant question that has appeared multiple times:
Some people believe that employers should ensure equal numbers of men and women in all job positions. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Analysis of Question
- Topic: Workplace gender equality
- Task type: Opinion (Agree/Disagree)
- Key points to address:
- Gender quotas in employment
- Merit vs equality
- Practical implications
- Social impact
Professional men and women discussing in modern office meeting
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In the contemporary workplace, the question of gender representation has become increasingly significant. While I partially agree that organizations should strive for gender balance, I believe implementing strict numerical equality might not always be the most effective approach.
Mandating equal gender representation can yield several positive outcomes. Firstly, it helps break down traditional gender barriers and stereotypes associated with specific roles. For instance, seeing more women in engineering or men in nursing can inspire future generations to pursue careers based on their interests rather than societal expectations. Moreover, diverse teams often demonstrate enhanced problem-solving capabilities and innovation, as different perspectives contribute to more comprehensive solutions.
However, enforcing strict numerical equality across all positions presents significant challenges. The primary consideration should be merit and qualification rather than gender quotas. In some sectors, the available talent pool might not align with perfect gender parity due to historical educational patterns or career choices. For example, in many countries, there are currently more male graduates in STEM fields, while healthcare administration often sees more female graduates.
A more nuanced approach would be to focus on creating equal opportunities while actively working to remove barriers that prevent either gender from pursuing certain careers. This could include implementing family-friendly policies, providing mentorship programs, and ensuring unbiased recruitment processes. Many successful organizations have achieved better gender balance by addressing systemic barriers rather than enforcing strict quotas.
In conclusion, while gender balance in the workplace is a worthy goal, it should be pursued through creating equal opportunities and eliminating discrimination rather than through rigid numerical requirements. The focus should be on developing talent pools and ensuring fair access to all positions regardless of gender.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
These days, many companies try to have the same number of men and women workers. I think this is partly good but also has some problems.
Having equal numbers of men and women at work is good for several reasons. First, it helps stop discrimination. When companies must hire both men and women equally, they cannot be unfair to anyone. Also, it gives good examples to young people. When children see both men and women doing different jobs, they know they can do any job they want.
However, there are some problems with this idea. Sometimes it is hard to find enough men or women for some jobs. For example, more women study nursing, so it is difficult to have 50% male nurses. Also, some people might not get jobs they deserve because companies need to hire the other gender to make numbers equal.
I think a better way is to make sure everyone has the same chances to get jobs. Companies should give fair interviews and look at skills first. They should also help both men and women with training and support at work. This is better than just trying to make the numbers equal.
In conclusion, while equal numbers of men and women at work is good, it should not be the main goal. What is more important is giving everyone fair chances and choosing people because of their abilities.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts with clear position
- Coherence & Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary with natural and sophisticated use
- Grammar: Various complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses main parts but less developed
- Coherence & Cohesion: Clear overall progression but simpler linking
- Lexical Resource: Adequate vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- gender parity (n) /ˈdʒendə ˈpærəti/ – equal representation of genders
- systemic barriers (n) /sɪˈstemɪk ˈbæriəz/ – organizational obstacles
- quota (n) /ˈkwəʊtə/ – fixed minimum requirement
- discrimination (n) /dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃn/ – unfair treatment based on prejudice
- mentorship (n) /ˈmentɔːʃɪp/ – guidance provided by experienced person
- family-friendly policies (n) /ˈfæmɪli ˈfrendli ˈpɒləsiz/ – workplace rules supporting family life
- merit-based (adj) /ˈmerɪt beɪst/ – based on ability and achievement
- talent pool (n) /ˈtælənt puːl/ – group of qualified candidates
Future practice topics might include:
- Gender pay gap solutions
- Work-life balance policies
- Leadership opportunities for women
- Workplace discrimination prevention
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion!
