The topic of promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry has gained significant attention in recent years, making it a potential subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. While it hasn’t been a frequent topic in past exams, its growing relevance suggests it could appear more often in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question related to this theme and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Some people believe that governments should regulate the fashion industry to ensure ethical practices, while others think it should be the responsibility of fashion companies themselves. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format, asking you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide your own opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- Government regulation of the fashion industry
- Self-regulation by fashion companies
- Your personal stance on the issue
Remember to provide balanced arguments for both perspectives before presenting your opinion in the conclusion.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The fashion industry has faced increasing scrutiny regarding its ethical practices, leading to debates about who should be responsible for ensuring fair and sustainable operations. While some argue that government intervention is necessary, others believe fashion companies should self-regulate. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on the matter.
Those in favor of government regulation contend that only official oversight can effectively enforce ethical standards across the industry. They argue that left to their own devices, many fashion brands prioritize profits over ethical considerations, resulting in issues such as exploitation of workers and environmental degradation. Government-imposed regulations, such as mandatory supply chain audits and penalties for non-compliance, could create a level playing field and ensure all companies adhere to minimum ethical standards.
On the other hand, proponents of self-regulation assert that fashion companies are best positioned to implement ethical practices within their operations. They maintain that industry insiders possess the knowledge and flexibility to develop innovative solutions that balance ethical concerns with business realities. Moreover, self-regulation can foster a culture of responsibility and innovation, encouraging companies to go beyond minimum standards and differentiate themselves through ethical leadership.
In my opinion, a combination of both approaches is necessary to effectively promote ethical practices in the fashion industry. While government regulations can establish a baseline for acceptable behavior, self-regulation allows companies to tailor their approach and potentially exceed these standards. This hybrid model would create a framework of accountability while still encouraging innovation and leadership from within the industry.
In conclusion, promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry requires a multifaceted approach. By combining government oversight with industry-led initiatives, we can create a more sustainable and responsible fashion ecosystem that benefits workers, consumers, and the environment.
(Word count: 298)
Ethical fashion practices illustration
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The fashion industry has been criticized for unethical practices, and there is debate about who should be responsible for improving the situation. Some people think the government should make rules, while others believe fashion companies should control themselves. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support government regulation think it is necessary because many fashion companies don’t care about ethics if it affects their profits. They believe that only strict laws can force companies to treat workers fairly and protect the environment. For example, the government could make rules about minimum wages and ban harmful chemicals in clothing production.
On the other hand, people who support self-regulation argue that fashion companies know their business best and can find better solutions. They think that if companies regulate themselves, they will be more creative and go beyond basic standards to show they are ethical. This could lead to more innovation in sustainable fashion and better working conditions.
In my opinion, both government regulation and self-regulation are important. The government should set basic rules to protect workers and the environment, but companies should also be encouraged to do more than the minimum. This way, we can ensure that all companies follow ethical practices while still allowing for innovation and improvement.
To conclude, promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry needs both government involvement and company initiative. By combining these approaches, we can create a more responsible fashion industry that is better for everyone involved.
(Word count: 253)
Key Considerations When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, and a conclusion. The higher band essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases such as “scrutiny,” “contend,” and “foster a culture of responsibility.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
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Grammar: The higher band essay employs a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay relies on simpler constructions. Both essays maintain grammatical accuracy appropriate to their respective levels.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more nuanced arguments and a more developed personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates smoother transitions between ideas and more sophisticated use of linking words and phrases.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Ethical practices (noun phrase) – /ˈeθɪkəl ˈpræktɪsɪz/ – Morally correct and acceptable business behaviors
- Sustainability (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
- Supply chain (noun phrase) – /səˈplaɪ tʃeɪn/ – The network of organizations involved in the production and distribution of a product
- Exploitation (noun) – /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃən/ – The action of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work
- Oversight (noun) – /ˈoʊvərsaɪt/ – The action of overseeing something, especially the supervision of a company or organization
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products
- Compliance (noun) – /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – The action of following rules or requests made by people in authority
- Transparency (noun) – /trænsˈpærənsi/ – The quality of being open and honest in business practices
- Accountability (noun) – /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – The fact or condition of being responsible for one’s actions
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources
Conclusion
The topic of promoting ethical practices in the fashion industry is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in this type of question, focus on developing balanced arguments, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your essay clearly. Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:
- The role of consumers in promoting ethical fashion
- The impact of fast fashion on workers and the environment
- Balancing affordability and sustainability in the fashion industry
Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
