Ethical consumption has become an increasingly important topic in recent years, especially when it comes to engaging younger generations. This theme often appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, as it touches on various aspects of society, economics, and environmental issues. Based on past exam trends and current global concerns, we can expect to see more questions related to ethical consumption and youth engagement in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a relevant IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this subject:
Some people believe that governments should focus on promoting ethical consumption among young people. Others think there are more important priorities for governments to address. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents two contrasting viewpoints on government priorities:
- Governments should prioritize promoting ethical consumption among youth.
- Governments have more important issues to address.
To answer this question effectively, you need to:
- Discuss both perspectives
- Provide reasons and examples for each view
- State your own opinion and justify it
Remember to maintain a balanced approach while presenting your arguments.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In today’s consumer-driven society, the debate over government priorities has intensified, with some advocating for a focus on promoting ethical consumption among young people, while others argue for addressing more pressing issues. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on the matter.
Those who support government initiatives to promote ethical consumption among youth argue that instilling these values early can lead to long-term societal benefits. By educating young people about the impact of their purchasing decisions on the environment, labor practices, and global economies, governments can foster a generation of conscientious consumers. This approach could potentially address various interconnected issues, such as climate change, exploitation of workers, and economic inequality. Moreover, young people often serve as influential trendsetters, and their adoption of ethical consumption practices could have a ripple effect throughout society.
On the other hand, critics of this approach contend that governments face more urgent priorities that demand immediate attention. Issues such as poverty, healthcare, education, and national security are often seen as more critical to a nation’s wellbeing. These individuals argue that allocating resources to promote ethical consumption among youth might divert attention and funding from these essential areas. Furthermore, they may argue that consumer behavior is primarily influenced by market forces and personal choices, making government intervention less effective in this domain.
In my opinion, while addressing immediate societal needs is crucial, promoting ethical consumption among young people should not be overlooked as a long-term strategy for sustainable development. Governments can strike a balance by integrating ethical consumption education into existing educational curricula and public awareness campaigns. This approach would not necessarily require significant additional resources but could yield substantial benefits over time. By empowering youth with knowledge about ethical consumption, governments can nurture a generation that is better equipped to address global challenges through their everyday choices.
In conclusion, while governments must prioritize pressing issues, the promotion of ethical consumption among young people should be viewed as a complementary strategy rather than a competing priority. By fostering a culture of responsible consumerism, governments can lay the groundwork for a more sustainable and equitable future.
(Word count: 339)
Ethical consumption education for youth
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should focus on promoting ethical consumption among young people or address other priorities is a topic of debate. This essay will discuss both views and provide my opinion.
Some people believe that governments should prioritize teaching young people about ethical consumption. They think this is important because young people are the future of society and their choices can have a big impact. If young people learn to make ethical choices when buying things, it could help solve problems like environmental damage and unfair labor practices. For example, if more young people choose to buy products from companies that treat workers fairly, it could encourage other companies to improve their practices.
However, others argue that governments have more important things to focus on. They believe that issues like healthcare, education, and poverty are more urgent and need immediate attention. These people think that spending time and money on promoting ethical consumption might take resources away from solving these bigger problems. They might say that it’s more important to make sure everyone has access to good education and healthcare before worrying about ethical consumption.
In my opinion, I think both views have some truth to them. While it’s true that governments need to address urgent issues like healthcare and education, I believe that promoting ethical consumption among young people is also important. I think governments can do both things at the same time. They could include lessons about ethical consumption in school curriculums, which wouldn’t take away from other important subjects. This way, young people can learn about making responsible choices without the government neglecting other priorities.
To conclude, while governments do have many important issues to address, I believe that promoting ethical consumption among young people should also be a priority. By educating youth about the impact of their choices, governments can help create a more responsible and sustainable future society.
(Word count: 309)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a higher band score.
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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. Both are correct, but the higher band essay demonstrates a greater range of language skills.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay does this more effectively, creating a smoother flow between paragraphs and ideas.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced analysis of the issue.
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Development of Ideas: The Band 8-9 essay develops ideas more fully, providing more specific examples and deeper analysis. The Band 6-7 essay makes valid points but could expand on them further.
Vocabulary to Remember
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Ethical consumption (noun phrase) – /ˈeθɪkəl kənˈsʌmpʃən/ – The practice of purchasing products and services that are produced in a way that minimizes social and/or environmental damage.
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Conscientious (adjective) – /ˌkɒnʃiˈenʃəs/ – Wishing to do what is right, especially to do one’s work or duty well and thoroughly.
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Ripple effect (noun phrase) – /ˈrɪpl ɪˈfekt/ – The continuing and spreading results of an event or action.
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Sustainable development (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources.
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Interconnected (adjective) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – Having all parts or elements closely connected or related.
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Consumer-driven (adjective) – /kənˈsjuːmə ˈdrɪvn/ – Determined or influenced by the preferences and choices of consumers.
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Exploit (verb) – /ɪkˈsplɔɪt/ – To use someone or something unfairly for one’s own advantage.
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Nurture (verb) – /ˈnɜːtʃə/ – To care for and encourage the growth or development of something.
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Complementary (adjective) – /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri/ – Combining in such a way as to enhance or emphasize the qualities of each other or another.
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Empowering (adjective) – /ɪmˈpaʊərɪŋ/ – Giving someone the authority or power to do something; making someone stronger and more confident.
In conclusion, the topic of promoting ethical consumption among youth is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of education in promoting sustainable lifestyles
- Government policies to encourage responsible consumption
- The impact of youth-led movements on consumer behavior
- Balancing economic growth with ethical business practices
Remember to practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.
