Migration and refugee crises have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Understanding how to address these complex issues is crucial for achieving a high band score. This article will provide you with sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you tackle this challenging subject effectively.
Analyzing the Topic’s Relevance in IELTS
The topic of migration and refugee crises has appeared frequently in recent IELTS exams, reflecting its global significance. Based on historical analysis of global migration patterns, we can expect this trend to continue. Let’s examine a typical question you might encounter:
Some people believe that countries should accept refugees, while others argue that countries should close their borders to them. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Deconstructing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss arguments for accepting refugees
- Explore reasons for closing borders to refugees
- Present and justify your own stance on the issue
Remember to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
The global refugee crisis has sparked heated debates about whether nations should welcome displaced individuals or fortify their borders. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that countries should accept refugees, albeit with careful consideration and planning.
Those in favor of accepting refugees argue that it is a moral imperative to help those fleeing war, persecution, or natural disasters. Developed nations, in particular, have the resources and infrastructure to provide sanctuary to those in dire need. Moreover, refugees often bring valuable skills and cultural diversity, potentially enriching their host countries economically and socially. For instance, Germany’s decision to accept Syrian refugees in 2015 led to an influx of skilled workers in various sectors, contributing to the country’s economic growth.
On the other hand, opponents of refugee acceptance cite concerns about national security, economic strain, and cultural integration. They argue that the influx of refugees may pose security risks, as proper vetting can be challenging in crisis situations. Additionally, the sudden increase in population can burden public services and potentially lead to social tensions if integration efforts are inadequate. Countries like Hungary have taken this stance, prioritizing border security and national interests.
In my opinion, while the concerns of those opposing refugee acceptance are valid, the humanitarian aspect outweighs these challenges. Countries should implement comprehensive policies that address both the needs of refugees and the concerns of their citizens. This could include robust screening processes, targeted integration programs, and international cooperation to share the responsibility of refugee resettlement.
Furthermore, it is crucial to recognize that refugee crises are often symptoms of broader global issues. By accepting refugees, nations not only fulfill their humanitarian obligations but also contribute to global stability. Addressing the root causes of displacement through diplomatic efforts and international aid should be a parallel priority.
In conclusion, while the debate on refugee acceptance is complex, I believe that countries have a moral obligation to offer sanctuary to those in need. However, this must be done thoughtfully, with policies that ensure security, promote integration, and distribute the responsibility equitably among nations. By doing so, we can address the immediate humanitarian crisis while working towards long-term solutions to global displacement.
(Word count: 349)
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of whether countries should accept refugees or close their borders is a difficult one. There are good reasons for both sides of this argument.
People who think countries should accept refugees say it is the right thing to do. Refugees are often running away from war or other dangers in their home countries. Rich countries have enough money and space to help these people. Also, refugees can bring new ideas and skills to the countries they move to. For example, some refugees become doctors or start businesses in their new homes.
On the other hand, some people think countries should not accept refugees. They worry about safety because it’s hard to check everyone’s background. They also think refugees might take jobs from local people or change the culture too much. Some countries say they don’t have enough money to help refugees.
In my opinion, I think countries should accept refugees, but they need to be careful about how they do it. It’s important to help people in danger, but countries also need to think about their own citizens. They should have good plans to help refugees find jobs and learn the language. They should also make sure that accepting refugees doesn’t cause problems for local people.
I also think that countries should work together to solve this problem. Rich countries could help poor countries that have lots of refugees. They could give money or send experts to help. This way, not all refugees would need to move to other countries.
To conclude, while there are challenges in accepting refugees, I believe it is the right thing to do. Countries should find ways to help refugees while also taking care of their own people. This is a big problem that needs all countries to work together to solve.
(Word count: 295)
Key Writing Considerations
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
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Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language.
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Argumentation: The higher band essay provides more detailed examples and in-depth analysis, while the lower band essay offers more general statements.
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Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more varied and sophisticated cohesive devices.
Essential Vocabulary for Migration and Refugee Topics
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Asylum seeker (noun) /əˈsaɪləm ˌsiːkər/ – A person who has left their home country as a political refugee and is seeking asylum in another.
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Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – The forced movement of people from their locality or environment.
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Integration (noun) /ˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃn/ – The process of combining or assimilating people into a society or culture.
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Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – Concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare.
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Assimilation (noun) /əˌsɪmɪˈleɪʃn/ – The process of taking in and fully understanding information or ideas.
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Xenophobia (noun) /ˌzenəˈfəʊbiə/ – Fear or hatred of foreigners or strangers.
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Resettlement (noun) /ˌriːˈsetlmənt/ – The act of settling people in a different place.
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Persecution (noun) /ˌpɜːsɪˈkjuːʃn/ – Hostility and ill-treatment, especially because of race or political or religious beliefs.
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Influx (noun) /ˈɪnflʌks/ – An arrival or entry of large numbers of people or things.
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Repatriation (noun) /ˌriːˌpætriˈeɪʃn/ – The return of someone to their own country.
Conclusion
Addressing the challenges of migration and refugee crises in IELTS Writing Task 2 requires a balanced approach, strong argumentation, and appropriate use of vocabulary. Practice writing essays on this topic, considering various aspects such as economic impact, cultural integration, and international cooperation. You might encounter questions focusing on specific aspects of migration, such as how climate change influences global migration patterns.
To further improve your skills, try writing an essay based on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This active practice will help you refine your writing and prepare effectively for your IELTS exam.