The topic of four-day work week has gained significant attention in recent IELTS examinations, appearing multiple times between 2021-2023. This trend suggests a high probability of encountering similar questions in future tests, particularly as the concept becomes increasingly relevant in modern workplace discussions. Similar to The importance of work-life balance in modern society, this topic explores how changing work patterns affect society.
Four day work week concept showing work life balance benefits
Analysis of Recent IELTS Question
Some companies have started implementing a four-day working week instead of a five-day working week. What are the advantages and disadvantages of this trend? Give reasons for your answer and include relevant examples from your knowledge or experience.
Question Analysis
- Topic: Workplace policy change
- Task: Discuss advantages and disadvantages
- Focus: Impact on both employees and organizations
- Structure Required: Balanced discussion with examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The adoption of a four-day working week represents a significant shift in traditional work patterns, and while it offers several compelling benefits, it also presents certain challenges. This essay will examine both perspectives of this emerging trend.
The primary advantages of a four-day work week are substantial and multifaceted. Firstly, employees benefit from improved work-life balance, similar to what studies have shown about benefits of remote work for companies. With an extra day off, workers have more time for family, personal development, and leisure activities, which can significantly enhance their mental well-being and job satisfaction. Additionally, companies often report increased productivity as employees tend to be more focused and efficient during their working hours, knowing they have a longer weekend ahead.
However, this arrangement also poses several challenges. The most significant concern is the potential reduction in overall business operational hours, which could impact customer service and revenue generation, particularly in client-facing industries. Furthermore, some employees might experience increased stress trying to complete their usual workload in fewer days, potentially leading to burnout. This relates to ongoing discussions about how to promote work-life balance in the modern workforce.
Comparison of productivity levels between four and five day work weeks
In conclusion, while the four-day work week offers notable benefits in terms of employee well-being and potential productivity gains, its implementation requires careful consideration of business needs and proper workforce management strategies. Organizations must weigh these factors carefully when deciding whether to adopt this modern working arrangement.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many companies try to change their working schedule from five days to four days per week. This change has both good and bad effects on workers and companies.
On the positive side, workers can have more free time when they work four days. They can spend more time with their family and do things they like. Also, some research shows that workers feel less tired and work better when they have more rest days. Companies can save money on electricity and other costs when the office is closed for one more day.
But there are also problems with this system. Some customers might not be happy because they cannot contact the company on the extra day off. Workers might need to work longer hours on their working days to finish all their tasks. This could make them very tired on working days. Some small businesses might lose money if they close for one more day every week.
In my opinion, the four-day work week can be good if companies plan it carefully. They need to think about their business type and make sure both workers and customers are happy with the change.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (9): Comprehensive coverage with relevant examples
- Coherence (8): Clear progression with effective paragraphing
- Vocabulary (9): Sophisticated vocabulary use with natural collocations
- Grammar (8): Wide range of complex structures
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (6): Basic ideas covered but less developed
- Coherence (7): Clear organization but simpler linking
- Vocabulary (6): Adequate but repetitive vocabulary
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- multifaceted (adj) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects
- operational (adj) /ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl/ – relating to the running of a business
- burnout (n) /ˈbɜːnaʊt/ – physical or mental collapse due to overwork
- productivity (n) /ˌprɒdʌkˈtɪvəti/ – efficiency of production
This topic continues to evolve as more organizations experiment with alternative work schedules. For practice, consider writing about related topics such as should companies reduce employee working hours or the impact of flexible working arrangements on different industries. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
