IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering the Art of Addressing Rising Inequality (With Sample Essays for Different Bands)

Rising inequality is a pressing global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current socio-economic trends, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to be a focal point in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Some people believe that the gap between rich and poor people is widening and governments should take action to reduce this gap. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Analyzing the Question

This question addresses the issue of income inequality and asks for your opinion on government intervention. Let’s break it down:

1. Topic: The widening gap between rich and poor
2. Task: Express your agreement or disagreement with government action to reduce this gap
3. Key points to consider:
   • Causes of income inequality
   • Consequences of the widening gap
   • Potential government actions
   • Pros and cons of government intervention

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9

Income inequality has become a pressing concern in many societies, with the chasm between the affluent and the underprivileged continuing to expand. While some argue that this disparity is a natural outcome of free-market economies, I firmly believe that governments should take decisive action to mitigate this growing divide.

The widening wealth gap poses numerous challenges to society as a whole. Firstly, it can lead to social unrest and political instability, as those at the bottom of the economic ladder feel increasingly marginalized and resentful. Secondly, extreme inequality can stifle economic growth by limiting opportunities for social mobility and reducing overall consumer spending. Moreover, it can result in a vicious cycle where the wealthy have greater access to education and healthcare, further perpetuating the divide.

Governments have a crucial role to play in addressing this issue through various policy measures. Progressive taxation systems, where higher earners pay a larger percentage of their income in taxes, can help redistribute wealth more equitably. Additionally, investing in public education and vocational training programs can provide individuals from lower-income backgrounds with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in the job market. Furthermore, implementing robust social safety nets, such as unemployment benefits and healthcare subsidies, can help cushion the impact of economic hardships on vulnerable populations.

Critics may argue that government intervention could stifle innovation and economic growth by discouraging entrepreneurship and investment. However, I contend that well-designed policies can actually foster a more dynamic and inclusive economy. By ensuring a more level playing field and providing basic security for all citizens, governments can create an environment where talent and hard work are rewarded, regardless of one’s initial economic circumstances.

In conclusion, while the widening gap between rich and poor is a complex issue, I strongly agree that governments should take proactive measures to address it. By implementing targeted policies aimed at reducing inequality, societies can work towards creating more stable, prosperous, and just communities for all their citizens.

(Word count: 314)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, earning it a high band score. Here’s why:

1. Task Response: The essay clearly addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed argument with relevant examples and ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is logically organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central theme, and ideas are linked effectively using cohesive devices.

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including less common words and phrases like “mitigate,” “stifle,” and “perpetuating the divide.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy. It effectively uses conditional sentences, passive voice, and relative clauses.

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-elaborated with explanations and examples, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.

Economic Inequality Illustration

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7

In recent years, the gap between rich and poor people has been growing in many countries. Some people think that governments should take action to reduce this gap. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think there are some problems with it.

On the one hand, there are good reasons for governments to try to reduce inequality. When the gap between rich and poor is too big, it can cause social problems. Poor people may feel angry or hopeless, which can lead to crime or social unrest. Also, if poor people don’t have enough money for education or healthcare, it can be hard for them to improve their lives. This is not fair and can hurt the whole society in the long run.

Governments can do several things to help reduce the gap. They can make rich people pay more taxes and use this money to help poor people. They can also provide free education and healthcare to everyone, which can give poor people more chances to succeed. Additionally, governments can make laws to protect workers’ rights and ensure fair wages.

However, there are also some problems with government action. If taxes are too high, rich people might move their money to other countries or stop investing in businesses. This could hurt the economy and lead to fewer jobs. Also, some people argue that it’s not fair for the government to take money from those who worked hard to earn it.

In conclusion, I believe that governments should take some action to reduce the gap between rich and poor, but they need to be careful not to go too far. The best approach is probably to find a balance between helping poor people and keeping the economy strong.

(Word count: 283)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good control of language and addresses the task adequately, placing it in the Band 6-7 range. Here’s a breakdown of its strengths and areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position, although the argument could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression. However, the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “also”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate and adequate for the task, but there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they don’t impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Main ideas are relevant and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is not as extensive as in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Income inequality (noun) – /ˈɪnkʌm ɪnɪˈkwɒlɪti/ – The extent to which income is distributed unevenly in a group of people
2. Disparity (noun) – /dɪˈspærɪti/ – A great difference
3. Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe or serious
4. Progressive taxation (noun) – /prəˈɡresɪv tækˈseɪʃn/ – A tax system where the tax rate increases as the taxable amount increases
5. Social mobility (noun) – /ˈsəʊʃl məʊˈbɪləti/ – The ability to move between different levels in society
6. Perpetuate (verb) – /pəˈpetʃueɪt/ – To make something continue indefinitely
7. Marginalized (adjective) – /ˈmɑːdʒɪnəlaɪzd/ – Treated as insignificant or peripheral
8. Stifle (verb) – /ˈstaɪfl/ – To prevent or constrain
9. Proactive (adjective) – /prəʊˈæktɪv/ – Creating or controlling a situation rather than just responding to it
10. Social unrest (noun) – /ˈsəʊʃl ʌnˈrest/ – A state of dissatisfaction, disturbance, and agitation in society

Conclusion

Addressing the issue of rising inequality is a complex task that requires a nuanced understanding of economic and social factors. By practicing with essay prompts like the one discussed in this article, you can develop the skills needed to articulate your thoughts on this important topic effectively.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of education in reducing income inequality
2. The impact of technology on wealth distribution
3. The effectiveness of universal basic income in addressing inequality

Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing score is consistent practice and reflection. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active approach to learning can significantly enhance your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.