Economic inequality is a pressing global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on past exam trends and the increasing relevance of this topic, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter a question related to Economic Inequality Solutions in your IELTS test. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and multiple essay responses tailored to different band scores.

Analyzing the Task

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject:

Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing economic inequality, while others argue that economic growth is more important. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should prioritize reducing economic inequality
2. Discuss the opposing view that economic growth is more important
3. Present and justify your own opinion on the matter

Now, let’s look at three sample essays addressing this task, each aimed at a different band score.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Economic disparity and overall economic growth are two intertwined aspects of a nation’s development that often spark heated debates. While some advocate for government intervention to narrow the wealth gap, others contend that fostering economic expansion should take precedence. In my view, a balanced approach that addresses both issues simultaneously is crucial for sustainable progress.

Proponents of reducing economic inequality argue that a more equitable distribution of wealth leads to a more stable and harmonious society. They contend that extreme disparities can result in social unrest, crime, and a breakdown of community cohesion. Moreover, a more economically balanced populace tends to have better access to education, healthcare, and opportunities, which in turn can drive innovation and productivity. Countries like Sweden and Denmark, with their robust social welfare systems, are often cited as examples of how reducing inequality can coexist with a high standard of living.

On the other hand, those who prioritize economic growth maintain that a rising tide lifts all boats. They argue that focusing on overall economic expansion creates more jobs, increases tax revenues, and ultimately benefits all segments of society, including the less fortunate. This perspective is exemplified by rapidly developing nations like China, where decades of strong economic growth have lifted millions out of poverty, despite persistent inequality. Advocates of this view also suggest that excessive redistribution of wealth can disincentivize innovation and entrepreneurship, potentially stifling the very engine of economic progress.

In my opinion, the most effective approach is to pursue policies that address both economic inequality and growth concurrently. Governments can implement progressive taxation systems and invest in public services while also creating an environment conducive to business growth and innovation. For instance, investing in education and healthcare can both reduce inequality and enhance human capital, driving long-term economic growth. Similarly, supporting small businesses and promoting fair competition can foster economic expansion while preventing the concentration of wealth in the hands of a few.

In conclusion, while the debate between reducing inequality and promoting growth is often framed as a dichotomy, I believe that these goals are not mutually exclusive. A nuanced approach that balances both objectives is not only possible but necessary for creating a prosperous and equitable society. Governments should strive to implement policies that address immediate inequalities while laying the groundwork for sustained, inclusive economic growth.

(Word count: 379)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically linked.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example: “intertwined,” “spark heated debates,” “foster economic expansion,” “sustainable progress.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. For instance: “While some advocate for…,” “Those who prioritize economic growth maintain that…,” “Governments can implement… while also creating…”

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, showing depth of thinking on the topic.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Economic inequality solutions concept

The question of whether governments should focus on reducing economic inequality or promoting economic growth is a complex one. Both views have their merits, and in this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who believe governments should focus on reducing economic inequality argue that it’s important for social stability. When the gap between rich and poor is too big, it can lead to social problems and unrest. They say that a more equal society is happier and healthier. For example, countries like Norway and Finland, which have lower levels of inequality, often rank high in happiness surveys. Also, reducing inequality can help more people access education and healthcare, which is good for society as a whole.

On the other hand, supporters of prioritizing economic growth say that it’s more important to increase the overall wealth of a country. They argue that when the economy grows, it creates more jobs and opportunities for everyone, including the poor. They point to countries like China, where rapid economic growth has helped millions of people escape poverty. They also say that if we focus too much on reducing inequality, it might discourage people from working hard and being innovative.

In my opinion, both reducing inequality and promoting economic growth are important, and governments should try to do both. I think it’s possible to have policies that encourage economic growth while also making sure that the benefits are shared more equally. For example, governments could invest in education and job training to help more people participate in the growing economy. They could also have tax systems that support businesses but also make sure that wealthy individuals and corporations pay their fair share.

To conclude, while some people think governments should focus on reducing economic inequality and others believe economic growth is more important, I think both are necessary for a healthy society. Governments should aim for balanced policies that promote growth while also ensuring that the benefits are distributed more fairly among all members of society.

(Word count: 329)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a mid-range band score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, with clear paragraphing. However, the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “also”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, with some attempts at less common words (e.g., “complex,” “prioritizing”). However, there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, generally accurately. However, there’s less variety in structures compared to higher band essays.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported with examples, but the level of detail and explanation is not as extensive as in higher band essays.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Some people think governments should try to make everyone have similar amounts of money, but others think it’s better to make the country richer overall. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

People who want less difference between rich and poor say it’s good for society. When there’s a big gap, poor people might get angry and cause problems. They also say that if everyone has similar money, more people can go to school and see doctors. This makes the whole country better. Some countries like Sweden try to do this and people there seem happy.

But other people think it’s more important to make the country richer. They say when a country gets richer, everyone can get more money and jobs, even poor people. They use China as an example, where many people got out of being very poor when the country got richer. They also worry that if we try too hard to make everyone equal, people might not want to work hard or start businesses.

I think both ideas are important. We need to help poor people, but we also need to make the country richer. Maybe we can do both at the same time. The government could help businesses grow but also make sure rich people pay enough taxes to help poor people. They could also spend money on schools and hospitals that everyone can use.

In conclusion, I believe we should try to make the country richer and also help poor people at the same time. This way, everyone can have a better life.

(Word count: 262)

Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay

This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a lower mid-range band score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task, presenting both views and a personal opinion. However, the ideas are simplistic and lack depth.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a basic structure, but paragraphing is not always logical. Cohesive devices are limited and sometimes repetitive.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive, with few attempts at less common words. The language is often informal (e.g., “make everyone have similar amounts of money”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay primarily uses simple sentence structures with few complex sentences. There are some grammatical errors, but they don’t significantly impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented but not well-developed. Examples are given but lack detail and explanation.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Economic inequality (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɪnɪˈkwɒləti/ – differences in economic well-being between individuals or groups

2. Disparity (noun) – /dɪˈspærəti/ – a great difference

3. Progressive taxation (noun) – /prəˈɡresɪv tækˈseɪʃn/ – a tax system where the tax rate increases as the taxable amount increases

4. Social cohesion (noun) – /ˈsəʊʃl kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – the willingness of members of a society to cooperate with each other

5. Redistribution of wealth (noun) – /ˌriːdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃn əv welθ/ – the transfer of income, wealth, or property from some individuals to others

6. Sustainable development (noun) – /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – development that meets present needs without compromising future generations

7. Socioeconomic (adjective) – /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors

8. Fiscal policy (noun) – /ˈfɪskl ˈpɒləsi/ – government policy on taxation, public spending and borrowing

Conclusion

Economic inequality solutions remain a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As you’ve seen from these sample essays, the key to success lies in addressing all parts of the question, organizing your ideas coherently, using a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and developing your points with relevant examples and explanations.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of education in reducing economic inequality
2. The impact of globalization on economic disparities
3. Universal Basic Income as a potential solution to economic inequality

Remember, the best way to improve your writing skills is through consistent practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!

For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:

• Income Inequality and Its Social Consequences
• Tax Policies to Reduce Income Inequality
• Universal Basic Income as a Potential Solution