As an IELTS Writing Task 2 expert, I’ve observed that questions related to international cooperation and refugee crises have become increasingly common in recent years. This trend is likely to continue, given the global nature of these issues. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should spend money on international aid to help solve the global refugee crisis, while others believe that this money should be spent on dealing with problems in their own countries. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents two contrasting views on how governments should allocate resources:
- Spending money on international aid to address the global refugee crisis
- Focusing on domestic problems instead
To answer this effectively, you need to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide reasons and examples for each view
- State your own opinion and justify it
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
International cooperation is crucial in addressing the global refugee crisis, but it often competes with domestic priorities for limited government resources. While some argue for increased international aid, others believe that nations should focus on their internal issues first. In my opinion, a balanced approach that addresses both international and domestic concerns is the most effective strategy.
Those who advocate for increased international aid to tackle the refugee crisis argue that it is a global problem that requires a coordinated global response. They contend that wealthy nations have a moral obligation to assist those fleeing war, persecution, and natural disasters. For example, countries like Germany and Sweden have taken in large numbers of Syrian refugees, demonstrating how international cooperation can provide immediate relief to those in need. Moreover, proponents argue that addressing the refugee crisis at its source through aid and development programs can prevent future crises and ultimately benefit all nations.
On the other hand, those who prioritize domestic spending argue that a government’s primary responsibility is to its own citizens. They point out that many countries face significant internal challenges, such as poverty, unemployment, and inadequate healthcare, which require substantial resources to address. For instance, the United States continues to grapple with issues like homelessness and income inequality, leading some to question the wisdom of allocating funds to international aid while domestic problems persist. Additionally, critics of international aid often cite concerns about corruption and inefficiency in aid distribution, arguing that money spent abroad may not always reach those who need it most.
In my view, the most effective approach is to strike a balance between international aid and domestic spending. Governments should recognize that in an interconnected world, global stability and prosperity are inextricably linked to national interests. By contributing to international efforts to address the refugee crisis, nations can help create a more stable global environment, which in turn can reduce the likelihood of future crises and their potential impacts on domestic affairs. At the same time, governments must ensure that they maintain robust domestic programs to address the needs of their citizens.
To achieve this balance, nations could allocate a fixed percentage of their GDP to international aid, as recommended by the United Nations, while still prioritizing domestic issues. They could also focus on forms of aid that provide mutual benefits, such as investing in education and job training programs for refugees, which can help integrate them into host countries’ economies and reduce long-term dependency on aid.
In conclusion, while the debate between international aid and domestic spending is complex, a nuanced approach that recognizes the interconnectedness of global and local issues is essential. By balancing their commitments to both international cooperation and domestic welfare, governments can work towards a more stable and prosperous world for all.
(Word count: 449)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “inextricably linked,” “interconnected world,” “nuanced approach”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Many people have different opinions about how governments should spend money to help with the refugee crisis. Some think it’s important to give money to other countries, while others believe we should focus on problems at home. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support giving money to help refugees in other countries say it’s a big problem that needs everyone to work together. They think rich countries should help people who are running away from war or natural disasters. For example, some European countries have welcomed many Syrian refugees, which shows how working together can help people in need. Also, they say that if we help solve problems in other countries, it can stop more refugees from coming in the future.
On the other hand, some people think governments should spend money on problems in their own country first. They say that many countries have their own issues like poverty and unemployment that need to be fixed. For instance, even in rich countries like the USA, there are still homeless people and people without good healthcare. These people think it’s not fair to send money to other countries when there are still problems at home. They also worry that sometimes the money sent to other countries doesn’t always get to the people who really need it.
In my opinion, I think governments should try to do both things. They should help with the refugee crisis because it’s a big problem that affects everyone. But they should also make sure they’re taking care of their own people. Maybe they could decide to spend a certain amount of money on helping other countries, but still keep enough to solve problems at home. This way, they can help refugees and their own citizens at the same time.
To conclude, while some people think governments should focus on international aid for refugees and others think they should concentrate on domestic issues, I believe a balance between the two is the best approach. Governments should try to help with the global refugee crisis while also addressing problems in their own countries.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is organized with clear paragraphing, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though with less variety than the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with examples, but the development is less thorough than in the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- International aid (noun) – /ˌɪntəˈnæʃənəl eɪd/ – assistance given by one country to another
- Refugee crisis (noun phrase) – /ˌrefjuˈdʒiː ˈkraɪsɪs/ – a situation where large numbers of people are forced to leave their homes
- Allocate (verb) – /ˈæləkeɪt/ – to distribute for a particular purpose
- Prioritize (verb) – /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to decide which things are the most important to deal with
- Interconnected (adjective) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – having different parts or things connected or related to each other
- Domestic (adjective) – /dəˈmestɪk/ – relating to or involving one’s own country
- Moral obligation (noun phrase) – /ˈmɒrəl ˌɒblɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – a duty or responsibility based on ethical principles
- Corruption (noun) – /kəˈrʌpʃən/ – dishonest or illegal behavior, especially by people in positions of power
- Integrate (verb) – /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – to combine or be combined to form a whole
- Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle differences or distinctions
Conclusion
The topic of international cooperation in addressing refugee crises is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of international organizations in managing global crises
- Balancing national interests with global responsibilities
- The long-term effects of international aid on recipient countries
- Strategies for integrating refugees into host countries
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to address all parts of the question, organize your ideas clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your arguments with relevant examples.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.