International aid and its effects on developing countries is a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Let’s explore a real IELTS question on this subject and analyze sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that richer nations should provide more financial aid to poorer countries, while others disagree and believe that this aid does more harm than good. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for increasing financial aid to poorer countries
- Discuss arguments against increasing financial aid
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
Let’s examine three sample essays of varying quality to understand how to approach this task effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The issue of whether wealthy nations should increase financial assistance to developing countries is a contentious one. While some argue that this aid is crucial for global development, others contend that it may cause more harm than good. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.
Proponents of increased financial aid argue that it is a moral imperative for prosperous nations to support those in need. They contend that such assistance can help alleviate poverty, improve healthcare systems, and enhance educational opportunities in developing countries. For instance, international aid has been instrumental in funding vaccination programs that have saved millions of lives in Africa. Moreover, supporters believe that by elevating living standards in poorer nations, the global economy as a whole can benefit from increased trade and stability.
On the other hand, critics of financial aid argue that it often creates dependency and can be counterproductive. They point out that aid money is sometimes mismanaged or embezzled by corrupt officials, failing to reach those who need it most. Additionally, there are concerns that foreign aid can undermine local industries and markets, hindering long-term economic growth. For example, donations of free clothing to some African countries have been known to negatively impact local textile industries.
In my opinion, while the intentions behind financial aid are generally noble, its implementation requires careful consideration and oversight. I believe that a more effective approach would be to focus on sustainable development initiatives that empower local communities and foster self-reliance. This could include investments in education, infrastructure, and entrepreneurship programs that create lasting economic opportunities. Additionally, donor nations should work closely with recipient countries to ensure transparency and accountability in the use of aid funds.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding financial aid to developing countries is complex and multifaceted. While increased aid has the potential to make significant positive impacts, it is crucial to address the valid concerns raised by critics. By adopting a more nuanced and strategic approach to international assistance, wealthy nations can contribute more effectively to global development without creating unintended negative consequences.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The topic of whether rich countries should give more money to poor countries is debated a lot. Some people think it’s a good idea, but others say it can cause problems. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
People who support giving more aid say it’s important to help those who are struggling. They think rich countries have a responsibility to share their wealth with poorer nations. This money can be used for things like building schools, hospitals, and roads. It can also help fight diseases and provide food to hungry people. For example, aid has helped many African countries to improve their healthcare systems.
However, there are also arguments against giving more aid. Some people believe that it makes poor countries depend too much on help from others. They say that the money doesn’t always go to the right places because of corruption. Sometimes, the aid can even hurt local businesses because free things from other countries compete with local products. This has happened in some places where free clothes from rich countries have made it hard for local clothing makers to sell their products.
In my opinion, I think giving aid is generally a good thing, but it needs to be done carefully. Rich countries should help poor countries, but they need to make sure the money is used well. Instead of just giving money, they could focus on teaching skills and helping countries to develop their own businesses. This way, poor countries can learn to support themselves in the long run.
To conclude, while there are both good and bad points about giving more aid to poor countries, I believe it can be helpful if it’s done in the right way. Rich nations should continue to support developing countries, but they should also work on finding better ways to help that don’t create new problems.
(Word count: 310)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many people talk about if rich countries should give more money to poor countries. Some people think it’s good, but others think it’s bad. I will write about both ideas and say what I think.
First, some people say rich countries should give more money. They think it’s good because poor countries need help. The money can buy food, medicine, and build schools. This can make life better for people in poor countries. For example, some countries in Africa got help to fight diseases.
But other people don’t agree. They say giving money can be bad. Sometimes the money doesn’t help the poor people because some bad leaders take it. Also, when poor countries get free things, it can be hard for their own businesses. Like when they get free clothes, the people who make clothes in that country can’t sell their own clothes.
I think giving money to poor countries can be good, but we need to be careful. Rich countries should help, but they should make sure the money is used well. Maybe they can teach poor countries how to make their own money instead of just giving them money all the time.
In conclusion, there are good and bad things about giving money to poor countries. I think rich countries should still help, but they need to find better ways to do it so it doesn’t cause problems.
(Word count: 223)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Ideas are coherent and there is clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesive devices effectively as required
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task with some evidence of style and flexibility
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information and ideas coherently and there is a clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be lack of overall progression
- Makes inadequate, inaccurate or over-use of cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial
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Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/ – make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe
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Imperative (noun) /ɪmˈperətɪv/ – an essential or urgent thing
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Embezzle (verb) /ɪmˈbezl/ – steal or misappropriate (money placed in one’s trust or belonging to the organization for which one works)
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Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having the opposite of the desired effect
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Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
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Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
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Empowerment (noun) /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ – the process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights
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Transparency (noun) /trænˈspærənsi/ – the condition of being transparent; openness and accountability
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Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – the fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility
These vocabulary items are crucial for discussing complex topics like international aid and its impacts. Understanding and using them correctly can significantly enhance the quality and sophistication of your writing.
Conclusion
The topic of international aid and its impact on developing countries is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of non-governmental organizations (NGOs) in international development
- The effectiveness of trade versus aid in promoting economic growth
- The impact of technological transfer from developed to developing nations
- The ethical considerations of conditional aid
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about memorizing sample essays, but understanding how to construct a well-reasoned argument and express it clearly and coherently. Practice writing your own essays and feel free to share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.
AI transforming the healthcare industry is another topic that may be relevant for IELTS Writing Task 2, as it explores the intersection of technology and global development. Understanding such contemporary issues can provide valuable context for discussing international aid and its effects on developing nations.