Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: How to Deal with the Economic Impact of Pandemics

The topic of economic impacts of pandemics has become increasingly relevant in recent years, particularly due to the global COVID-19 outbreak. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, and its significance is likely to persist in future exams. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays to help you prepare for this challenging topic.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that governments should focus on economic recovery after a pandemic, while others argue that public health should remain the top priority. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a classic IELTS Task 2 format: discussing two contrasting viewpoints and providing your own perspective. The topic revolves around the balance between economic recovery and public health in the aftermath of a pandemic. Let’s break down the key elements:

1. View 1: Governments should prioritize economic recovery post-pandemic
2. View 2: Public health should remain the top priority
3. Your task: Discuss both views and express your own opinion

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that addresses all parts of the question:

In the wake of a global pandemic, governments face the challenging task of balancing economic recovery with ongoing public health concerns. While some advocate for prioritizing economic rejuvenation, others insist that safeguarding public health should remain paramount. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Those who prioritize economic recovery argue that prolonged focus on public health measures can lead to severe economic consequences. They contend that widespread unemployment, business closures, and reduced consumer spending can create long-term societal problems that may outweigh the immediate health risks. For instance, economic downturns often result in increased poverty rates, which can indirectly impact public health through reduced access to healthcare and nutrition. Moreover, a strong economy provides the resources necessary to fund robust healthcare systems and pandemic preparedness for the future.

On the other hand, proponents of maintaining public health as the top priority argue that without a healthy population, economic recovery is impossible. They emphasize that prematurely relaxing health measures could lead to new waves of infections, potentially causing more severe and prolonged economic disruptions. Furthermore, they point out that a healthy workforce is essential for productivity and economic growth. Investing in public health infrastructure and preventive measures can create jobs and stimulate economic activity in healthcare-related sectors.

In my opinion, a balanced approach that considers both economic recovery and public health is crucial. I believe that these two aspects are inextricably linked and should be addressed simultaneously rather than treated as mutually exclusive priorities. Governments should implement policies that protect public health while also providing economic support and incentives for businesses to adapt to the new reality. For example, investing in digital infrastructure can both create jobs and enable safer remote work options. Similarly, supporting industries that produce personal protective equipment can boost the economy while enhancing pandemic preparedness.

In conclusion, while the debate between economic recovery and public health is often framed as a choice between two competing priorities, I believe that a nuanced, integrated approach is necessary. By recognizing the interconnectedness of economic and public health outcomes, governments can develop strategies that address both concerns effectively, ensuring a resilient and sustainable recovery from the pandemic.

(Word count: 345)

Economic impact of pandemics

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:

After a pandemic, governments have to decide whether to focus on the economy or keep public health as the main concern. This essay will discuss both sides of this issue and give my opinion.

Many people think that governments should concentrate on fixing the economy after a pandemic. They say that if businesses close and many people lose their jobs, it can cause big problems for society. These problems might be even worse than the health risks from the pandemic. For example, when people don’t have jobs, they might not be able to afford good food or healthcare, which can make them sick. Also, a strong economy means the government has more money to spend on healthcare and preparing for future pandemics.

However, other people believe that public health should still be the most important thing. They think that if we stop being careful about health too soon, the pandemic might come back and cause even more damage to the economy. They also say that we need healthy people to have a good economy. If we invest in health, it can create jobs in hospitals and other health-related businesses.

In my opinion, I think governments should try to balance both the economy and public health. These two things are connected, and we can’t ignore one while focusing on the other. Governments should make rules that keep people safe but also help businesses stay open. For instance, they could help companies set up ways for people to work from home safely. This would create jobs and keep people healthy at the same time.

To sum up, while some people think we should focus on the economy and others think health is more important, I believe we need to think about both. By looking at how the economy and health affect each other, governments can make better plans to help countries recover from pandemics.

(Word count: 309)

Key Writing Tips

When addressing this topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, consider the following tips:

1. Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both viewpoints, and a conclusion with your opinion.

2. Vocabulary: Use topic-specific vocabulary related to economics and public health. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated terms and phrases.

3. Grammar: Employ a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. For Band 8-9, use a wider range of structures accurately.

4. Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly within and between paragraphs.

5. Task Response: Address all parts of the question, including discussing both views and giving your opinion.

Essential Vocabulary

Here are some key terms to remember when writing about this topic:

1. Pandemic (noun) /pænˈdemɪk/ – a disease that spreads over a whole country or the world
2. Economic recovery (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk rɪˈkʌvəri/ – the process of an economy regaining its strength after a period of decline
3. Public health (noun phrase) /ˌpʌblɪk ˈhelθ/ – the health of the population as a whole, especially as monitored by the government
4. Unemployment rate (noun phrase) /ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt reɪt/ – the percentage of the workforce that is unemployed
5. Consumer spending (noun phrase) /kənˈsjuːmə ˈspendɪŋ/ – the amount of money spent by households in an economy
6. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə(r)/ – the basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
7. Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
8. Stimulus (noun) /ˈstɪmjələs/ – something that encourages activity or development, especially in the economy
9. Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/ – to decide which of a group of things are the most important so that you can deal with them first
10. Adaptation (noun) /ædæpˈteɪʃn/ – the process of changing to suit different conditions

Conclusion

The topic of dealing with the economic impact of pandemics is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of international cooperation in managing global health crises
• The impact of technology on pandemic response and economic recovery
• Balancing individual freedoms with public health measures during a pandemic
• The long-term effects of pandemic-related economic policies on different social groups

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use relevant vocabulary, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.