The topic of How Online Businesses Are Reshaping The Global Economy has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing significance of e-commerce, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and analyze it in detail.
Some people think that the increasing number of online businesses will lead to the end of all traditional shops and stores. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss the impact of online businesses on traditional retail. Key points to consider:
- The rise of online businesses
- The future of traditional shops and stores
- The extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement
It’s crucial to present a balanced argument, considering both sides before stating your position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The proliferation of online businesses has undoubtedly transformed the retail landscape, leading some to predict the demise of traditional brick-and-mortar stores. While I acknowledge the significant impact of e-commerce, I disagree with the notion that it will completely eradicate physical shops.
Undeniably, online businesses have numerous advantages that have contributed to their rapid growth. The convenience of shopping from home, 24/7 accessibility, and often lower prices due to reduced overhead costs have made e-commerce increasingly attractive to consumers. Furthermore, the COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated this trend, with many people turning to online shopping out of necessity. These factors have indeed posed significant challenges to traditional retailers, forcing many to adapt or face closure.
Online Shopping Convenience
However, I believe that physical stores will continue to play a vital role in the retail ecosystem for several reasons. Firstly, many consumers still value the tactile experience of seeing and touching products before making a purchase, particularly for items like clothing, furniture, or fresh produce. Secondly, brick-and-mortar stores offer immediate gratification, allowing customers to take their purchases home instantly rather than waiting for delivery. This aspect is especially important for urgent or last-minute needs.
Physical Store Experience
Moreover, traditional shops can provide a level of personalized service and expert advice that is often lacking in online transactions. Many retailers are also adapting by creating omnichannel experiences, integrating their physical and online presence to offer the best of both worlds. For example, options like “click and collect” or in-store returns for online purchases demonstrate how traditional and online retail can complement each other.
In conclusion, while online businesses have undoubtedly reshaped the retail landscape and will continue to grow, I believe they will coexist with, rather than completely replace, traditional shops. The future of retail likely lies in a hybrid model that combines the convenience of online shopping with the experiential aspects of physical stores, catering to diverse consumer preferences and needs.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring response:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with a well-developed argument.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex phrases like “proliferation of online businesses” and “brick-and-mortar stores” demonstrate sophisticated language use.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex structures used accurately. Errors are rare and do not impede communication.
- Critical Thinking: The response demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the topic, considering multiple perspectives and providing specific examples to support arguments.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, online businesses have become very popular, and some people think they will replace all traditional shops. While I agree that online shopping has many advantages, I don’t think it will completely end physical stores.
Online businesses have grown a lot because they are convenient. People can shop from home at any time, and often prices are lower because online shops don’t need to pay for store rent. Also, during the COVID-19 pandemic, more people started shopping online because it was safer. These things have made it hard for some traditional shops to stay open.
Online Business Growth
However, I believe physical stores still have important roles. Many people like to see and touch products before buying them, especially for things like clothes or food. Also, when you buy from a shop, you can take the product home immediately, which is good for urgent needs. Some people also enjoy shopping as a social activity with friends or family.
Traditional shops are also trying to adapt to compete with online businesses. Many now have websites where customers can check products and prices before visiting the store. Some offer services like “click and collect” where you can order online and pick up in the store. This shows that physical and online shopping can work together.
In conclusion, while online businesses have changed shopping habits, I don’t think they will completely replace traditional shops. Both types of shopping have their advantages, and in the future, we will probably see a mix of online and physical stores to meet different customer needs.
(Word count: 267)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression of ideas. Paragraphing is logical, but the use of cohesive devices could be more sophisticated.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used appropriately, but it lacks the sophistication of higher band scores. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are made.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
- Critical Thinking: The essay shows some analysis and evaluation of the topic, but the arguments could be more fully elaborated and supported with specific examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Brick-and-mortar (adjective) – /ˌbrɪk.ənˈmɔː.tər/ – referring to a physical store or business, as opposed to one operating over the internet
- Omnichannel (adjective) – /ˌɒm.nɪˈtʃæn.əl/ – involving or using various types of commerce and communication channels to interact with customers
- Eradicate (verb) – /ɪˈræd.ɪ.keɪt/ – to completely get rid of something
- Tactile (adjective) – /ˈtæk.taɪl/ – related to the sense of touch
- Gratification (noun) – /ˌɡræt.ɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ – pleasure or satisfaction
- Complement (verb) – /ˈkɒm.plɪ.ment/ – to make something else seem better or more attractive when combining with it
- Coexist (verb) – /ˌkoʊ.ɪɡˈzɪst/ – to exist together at the same time or in the same place
Conclusion
The topic of online businesses reshaping the global economy is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The impact of e-commerce on local economies
- The role of technology in changing work environments
- The future of traditional industries in the digital age
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and consider sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- The Role of Digital Platforms in Reshaping Employment Opportunities
- How Automation is Driving Advancements in Global Trade
- Telecommuting for International Businesses
By studying these resources and practicing regularly, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question about how online businesses are reshaping the global economy in your IELTS Writing Task 2 exam.
