Global trade agreements and their impact on local job markets have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject’s relevance in today’s interconnected global economy makes it a popular choice for examiners. Based on recent trends and historical data from reputable IELTS preparation websites, we can anticipate a high likelihood of encountering questions related to this theme in future tests.
Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that governments should invite international companies to open branches and factories in their countries to create more jobs, while others claim that governments should invest in domestic companies instead. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question addresses the dilemma faced by governments when deciding between attracting international companies and supporting domestic businesses to stimulate job creation. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the advantages of inviting international companies
- Explore the benefits of investing in domestic companies
- Provide a personal opinion on which approach is more effective
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
International investment versus domestic support is a contentious issue in economic policy, with valid arguments on both sides. This essay will explore the merits of each approach before offering a balanced perspective on the matter.
Proponents of inviting international companies argue that this strategy can rapidly boost employment and economic growth. Multinational corporations often bring substantial capital, advanced technology, and established business practices, which can create numerous high-quality jobs directly and indirectly through supply chains. For instance, when Toyota established factories in the United States, it not only created thousands of direct jobs but also stimulated local economies by partnering with domestic suppliers.
On the other hand, advocates for investing in domestic companies contend that this approach fosters sustainable, long-term economic development. By supporting local businesses, governments can help build a robust and diverse economic ecosystem that is more resilient to global economic fluctuations. Moreover, profits from domestic companies are more likely to be reinvested locally, creating a virtuous cycle of economic growth. The success of South Korea’s chaebols, such as Samsung and Hyundai, demonstrates how government support for domestic industries can lead to global competitiveness and sustained economic prosperity.
In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both strategies is most effective. Governments should strive to create an environment that attracts foreign investment while simultaneously nurturing domestic industries. This can be achieved through targeted policies such as tax incentives for foreign direct investment in underdeveloped sectors, coupled with grants and research support for promising local startups. By doing so, countries can leverage the immediate benefits of international investment while building a strong foundation for long-term economic growth.
In conclusion, while both approaches have their merits, a nuanced strategy that harnesses the strengths of both international and domestic investment is likely to yield the best results for job creation and economic development.
(Word count: 298)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphing is well-managed, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with full flexibility and precision. Uncommon lexical items are used naturally and accurately.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of complex structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. Errors are rare and difficult to spot.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should focus on attracting international companies or supporting local businesses to create jobs is a complex one. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and give my opinion.
There are good reasons for governments to invite international companies to open branches in their countries. These companies often bring a lot of money and new technology, which can create many jobs. For example, when big tech companies like Google or Amazon open offices in new countries, they hire many local people and also help other businesses grow. This can quickly improve the local economy and give people better job opportunities.
However, investing in domestic companies also has important benefits. Local businesses understand the local market better and are more likely to stay in the country for a long time. When governments support these companies, it helps build a strong national economy. For instance, many countries have successful local brands that have become popular worldwide, like Samsung from South Korea. These companies create jobs and also make the country proud.
In my opinion, I think the best approach is to do both. Governments should try to attract international companies while also supporting local businesses. This way, they can get the benefits of foreign investment and technology while also building strong local industries. It’s important to find a balance so that both international and domestic companies can contribute to job creation and economic growth.
In conclusion, both inviting international companies and investing in domestic ones have their advantages for creating jobs. A balanced approach that combines both strategies is likely to be most effective for a country’s economic development.
(Word count: 275)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates good command of the language with some limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some aspects are developed more fully than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are not always used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used, though there is less precision in word choice compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Economic policy (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈpɒləsi/: A course of action adopted by the government for the economic benefit of society.
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Multinational corporation (noun) /mʌltiˈnæʃənl kɔːpəˈreɪʃn/: A company that operates in multiple countries.
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Foreign direct investment (FDI) (noun) /ˈfɒrən daɪˈrekt ɪnˈvestmənt/: Investment made by a company into business interests in another country.
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Economic ecosystem (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: The network of organizations involved in the delivery of a specific product or service through competition and cooperation.
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Virtuous cycle (noun) /ˈvɜːtʃuəs ˈsaɪkl/: A recurring cycle of events, the result of each one being to increase the beneficial effect of the next.
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Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources.
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Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
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Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/: Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
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Leverage (verb) /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/: Use (something) to maximum advantage.
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Robust (adjective) /rəʊˈbʌst/: Strong and healthy; vigorous.
Conclusion
Understanding the complex relationship between global trade agreements and local job markets is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. The sample essays provided demonstrate how to approach this topic at different band levels. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your level.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of free trade agreements on developing economies
- The role of protectionist policies in preserving local industries
- The effects of globalization on small businesses
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- How Renewable Energy is Powering the Global Economy
- The Role of International Trade in Promoting Economic Growth
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of topics will enhance your ability to tackle any question that appears in your IELTS Writing Task 2.