The topic of international cooperation in solving the refugee crisis is becoming increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the global significance of this issue, it’s highly likely that questions related to refugees and international collaboration will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s analyze a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.

International cooperation for refugee crisis

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that countries should work together to solve the global refugee crisis, while others believe each nation should deal with the issue independently. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

This question asks you to:

1. Discuss the view that countries should collaborate to address the refugee crisis
2. Discuss the view that countries should handle the issue on their own
3. Provide your personal opinion on the matter

Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your view.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

The global refugee crisis has become one of the most pressing issues of our time, sparking debate on how best to address it. While some argue for international cooperation, others believe individual nations should tackle the problem independently. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Those who advocate for international collaboration argue that the refugee crisis is a global issue that requires a coordinated response. They contend that by pooling resources and expertise, countries can more effectively manage the influx of refugees and provide better support. For instance, the European Union’s attempts to distribute refugees among member states demonstrate how collective action can help share the burden. Moreover, international cooperation can address the root causes of refugee crises, such as conflicts or natural disasters, through diplomatic efforts and aid programs.

On the other hand, proponents of independent national approaches argue that each country has unique circumstances and should tailor its refugee policies accordingly. They believe that individual nations are better equipped to understand their own capacity to integrate refugees and manage the economic and social impacts. For example, countries with different economic strengths, cultural backgrounds, or geographic locations may need to adopt varying strategies to effectively handle refugee populations.

In my opinion, while there is merit to both arguments, I believe that a combination of international cooperation and national discretion is the most effective approach. Global collaboration is essential for addressing the broader causes of refugee crises and ensuring a fair distribution of responsibility. However, individual countries should retain some autonomy in implementing policies that suit their specific situations. This balanced approach would allow for coordinated action on a global scale while respecting the unique challenges and capabilities of each nation.

In conclusion, the refugee crisis requires a nuanced response that harnesses the benefits of international cooperation while allowing for national flexibility. By working together on overarching strategies and sharing resources, while still permitting countries to tailor their approaches, the global community can more effectively address this complex and pressing issue.

(Word count: 309)

Essay Analysis:

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 8-9 response:

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

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with sophisticated phrases like “pooling resources and expertise” and “root causes of refugee crises.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

The refugee crisis is a big problem in many countries today. Some people think that countries should work together to solve this issue, while others believe each country should handle it on their own. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

There are good reasons for countries to cooperate on the refugee crisis. Working together can help share the burden of taking care of refugees. For example, if one country has too many refugees, other countries can help by accepting some of them. Also, when countries work together, they can share information and resources to help refugees better. This can make the process of helping refugees more efficient and effective.

On the other hand, some people think each country should deal with refugees independently. They believe that every country has different situations and abilities to help refugees. For instance, some countries might have more money or space to take in refugees, while others might not. Also, countries have different cultures, which can affect how well refugees can integrate into society. So, letting each country make its own decisions might be better in some cases.

In my opinion, I think a mix of both approaches is best. Countries should cooperate on big issues like setting general rules and sharing resources. But they should also have some freedom to make their own policies based on their specific situations. This way, we can have a global plan to help refugees while still respecting each country’s unique challenges.

To conclude, the refugee crisis is a complex problem that needs both international cooperation and individual country efforts. By combining these approaches, we can find better solutions to help refugees and the countries that host them.

(Word count: 282)

Essay Analysis:

This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and sophisticated compared to the higher band essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors that do not impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented and supported, but the examples and explanations are less detailed than in the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember:

1. Refugee crisis (noun) – /ˌrefjuˈdʒiː ˈkraɪsɪs/ – A situation where a large number of people are forced to leave their homes due to conflict, persecution, or disaster.

2. International cooperation (noun phrase) – /ˌɪntəˈnæʃənl kəʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃn/ – Countries working together to achieve common goals.

3. To integrate (verb) – /ˈɪntɪɡreɪt/ – To combine or be combined to form a whole.

4. Influx (noun) – /ˈɪnflʌks/ – The arrival of large numbers of people or things.

5. To address (verb) – /əˈdres/ – To deal with or discuss a topic, problem, or issue.

6. Burden (noun) – /ˈbɜːdn/ – A duty or responsibility that causes worry, difficulty, or hard work.

7. Autonomy (noun) – /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – The right or condition of self-government.

8. Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.

9. To tailor (verb) – /ˈteɪlə(r)/ – To adapt or customize for a particular purpose or person.

10. Diplomatic efforts (noun phrase) – /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk ˈefəts/ – Actions taken by countries to maintain good relations and negotiate with each other.

Conclusion

The topic of international cooperation in solving the refugee crisis is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and using appropriate vocabulary and structures, you can craft a well-balanced essay that addresses all aspects of the question.

For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:

1. The role of developed countries in assisting refugee-hosting nations
2. The impact of refugee crises on global economies
3. The challenges of integrating refugees into host societies

Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!