How Does International Migration Affect Labor Markets? – A Reading Exercise for IELTS Preparation

The IELTS Reading test is an integral part of the IELTS examination, designed to assess a candidate’s ability to understand and analyze written English. One prevalent topic that often appears in IELTS Reading passages is the impact of international migration on labor markets. Given the global nature of migration and its significant implications, this topic remains highly relevant and can be expected to appear in future exams. This article provides a comprehensive IELTS Reading exercise based on this topic to help candidates practice and improve their skills.

Migration and Labor Market

Full-Length IELTS Reading Passage: International Migration and Labor Markets

Passage

International migration has been a subject of intense debate, primarily because of its profound effects on labor markets. People move from one country to another for various reasons, including employment opportunities, better living conditions, and escape from political unrest. While migration can bring economic benefits to both the host and origin countries, it also poses challenges that need to be addressed.

In the host countries, migrants often take up jobs that native workers are unwilling or unable to fill. This is particularly evident in sectors such as agriculture, construction, and healthcare. Migrants contribute to the economy by paying taxes, engaging in consumer spending, and filling labor shortages. Moreover, they bring diverse skills and perspectives, which can foster innovation and cultural enrichment.

However, there are also concerns about the potential negative impacts of migration on labor markets in host countries. One of the primary issues is the potential displacement of native workers, especially in low-skilled jobs. This displacement can lead to increased competition for jobs, which may drive down wages and working conditions. Additionally, there is the issue of brain drain, where skilled workers migrate from developing countries to developed ones, leaving a gap in the labor force of their home countries.

Conversely, origin countries can benefit from remittances sent back by migrants. These funds can significantly boost the local economy, improve living standards, and contribute to poverty reduction. However, the loss of skilled labor can hinder development and exacerbate existing socio-economic problems. This duality of migration’s impact on origin countries adds complexity to the issue.

In conclusion, international migration has multifaceted effects on labor markets. While it offers economic advantages and cultural diversity, it also presents challenges that require careful management. Policymakers must strike a balance between leveraging the benefits of migration and mitigating its adverse effects to ensure sustainable development for both host and origin countries.

Questions

Multiple Choice

1. According to the passage, why do migrants often take up jobs in sectors like agriculture and healthcare?

   • A) Because these sectors offer the highest wages.
   • B) Because native workers are unwilling or unable to fill these positions.
   • C) Because these sectors are less competitive.
   • D) Because these sectors are the most innovative.

2. What is one significant benefit migrants bring to host countries?

   • A) Lower taxes.
   • B) Brain drain.
   • C) Diverse skills and perspectives.
   • D) Increased labor costs.

True/False/Not Given

3. Migrants contribute to the economy solely by filling labor shortages.

   • True
   • False
   • Not Given

4. Brain drain has no effect on the socio-economic problems of origin countries.

   • True
   • False
   • Not Given

Sentence Completion

5. Remittances sent back by migrants can significantly boost ____.

Matching Headings

6. Match the following headings to the corresponding paragraphs:
   • A) Economic benefits of migration
   • B) Challenges of migration in host countries
   • C) Effects of migration on origin countries
   • D) Conclusion on migration’s multifaceted effects

Answer Key and Explanations

Multiple Choice

1. B) Because native workers are unwilling or unable to fill these positions.

   • Explanation: The passage states that migrants often take up jobs in sectors like agriculture and healthcare because native workers are unwilling or unable to fill these positions.

2. C) Diverse skills and perspectives.

   • Explanation: The passage mentions that migrants bring diverse skills and perspectives, which can foster innovation and cultural enrichment.

True/False/Not Given

3. False.

   • Explanation: While migrants do fill labor shortages, the passage also mentions they contribute by paying taxes, engaging in consumer spending, and bringing diverse skills.

4. False.

   • Explanation: The passage indicates that brain drain can hinder development and exacerbate existing socio-economic problems.

Sentence Completion

5. local economy.
   • Explanation: The passage states that remittances sent back by migrants can significantly boost the local economy.

Matching Headings

6. • Paragraph 1: C) Effects of migration on origin countries
   • Paragraph 2: A) Economic benefits of migration
   • Paragraph 3: B) Challenges of migration in host countries
   • Paragraph 4: D) Conclusion on migration’s multifaceted effects

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Not reading the passage thoroughly: Always read the passage in its entirety before attempting the questions.
2. Misinterpreting the question types: Understand the requirements of each question type (e.g., multiple choice, true/false) to answer accurately.
3. Ignoring keywords: Pay attention to keywords in the questions and the passage.
4. Jumping to conclusions: Base your answers on information provided in the passage rather than personal knowledge or assumptions.

Vocabulary List

1. Intense (adj.) /ɪnˈtɛns/ – Very strong; extreme.

   • Example: “The debate was intense due to varying perspectives on migration.”

2. Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – The act of moving something or someone from its usual place.

   • Example: “The displacement of native workers was a concern in the labor market.”

3. Remittances (noun) /rɪˈmɪtənsɪz/ – Money sent back by migrants to their home country.

   • Example: “Remittances from abroad contribute significantly to the local economy.”

Grammar Point

Passive Voice

Structure

• Form: Subject + to be (in the correct tense) + past participle
  • Example: “The funds were sent by migrants.”

Usage

• Purpose: To emphasize the action or the object of the action rather than the subject.
• Example in context: “In the host countries, jobs are often taken up by migrants.”

Advice for High Reading Scores in IELTS

1. Develop Skimming and Scanning Skills: Quickly identify the main ideas and specific information in a passage.
2. Practice Different Question Types: Familiarize yourself with various question formats.
3. Enhance Vocabulary: A strong vocabulary helps in understanding the passage and answering questions accurately.
4. Time Management: Allocate your time wisely to ensure you can attempt all questions.
5. Regular Practice: Consistent practice with a variety of reading materials improves comprehension and speed.

By following these tips and practicing with passages like the one provided, candidates can significantly improve their performance in the IELTS Reading test.