The topic of supporting gig economy workers during crises has become increasingly relevant in recent years, especially in light of global events like the COVID-19 pandemic. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and is likely to continue being a popular theme due to its relevance to current socio-economic issues. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and analysis, focusing on how to effectively address it in your IELTS Writing Task 2 response.
Some people believe that governments should provide financial support to gig economy workers during times of crisis, while others argue that these workers should be responsible for their own financial security. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should provide financial support to gig economy workers during crises.
- Discuss the opposing view that gig economy workers should be responsible for their own financial security.
- Provide your own opinion on the matter.
Remember to address all parts of the question and support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The gig economy has revolutionized the way people work, offering flexibility and opportunities for many. However, the precarious nature of this employment model has been starkly highlighted during times of crisis. While some argue that governments should step in to support these workers financially, others contend that gig workers should bear the responsibility for their own financial security. In my opinion, a balanced approach involving both government support and individual responsibility is necessary.
Those who advocate for government intervention argue that gig workers are particularly vulnerable during crises. Unlike traditional employees, they lack access to benefits such as sick leave, unemployment insurance, and health coverage. This vulnerability was glaringly exposed during the COVID-19 pandemic when many gig workers found themselves without income and ineligible for standard unemployment benefits. Proponents argue that governments have a duty to protect all workers, including those in non-traditional employment arrangements, to ensure social stability and economic resilience.
On the other hand, critics of government support contend that gig workers choose this type of work knowing the risks involved. They argue that the flexibility and potential for higher earnings in the gig economy come with the trade-off of reduced job security. These critics believe that providing financial support to gig workers during crises could create moral hazard, potentially encouraging more people to enter unstable work arrangements without considering the long-term implications. They suggest that gig workers should be responsible for building their own financial safety nets through savings and private insurance.
In my view, a nuanced approach is necessary to address this complex issue. While I believe that gig workers should indeed take some responsibility for their financial security, I also recognize the unique challenges they face, especially during unprecedented crises. Governments could implement targeted support programs for gig workers during severe economic downturns, such as providing temporary unemployment benefits or subsidies. However, this should be balanced with policies that encourage and facilitate financial planning and skill development among gig workers.
Moreover, a long-term solution could involve creating a new category of worker classification that bridges the gap between traditional employees and independent contractors. This could allow for some basic protections and benefits for gig workers without completely undermining the flexibility that makes the gig economy attractive.
In conclusion, while gig economy workers should take steps to secure their financial future, governments also have a role to play in supporting these workers during exceptional circumstances. A balanced approach that combines government assistance with policies promoting individual responsibility would best serve both gig workers and society as a whole.
(Word count: 407)
Support for gig economy workers during crisis
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, the gig economy has become more popular, but it also brings challenges, especially during crises. Some people think the government should help gig workers financially in tough times, while others believe these workers should take care of themselves. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support government help for gig workers say it’s important because these workers don’t have the same benefits as regular employees. For example, during the COVID-19 pandemic, many gig workers lost their income and couldn’t get normal unemployment benefits. Supporters argue that the government should protect all workers, including those in the gig economy, to keep society stable and the economy strong.
On the other hand, some people think gig workers should be responsible for their own financial security. They say that gig work offers flexibility and sometimes higher pay, but with less job security. These critics believe that if the government helps gig workers too much, it might encourage more people to take unstable jobs without thinking about the risks. They suggest that gig workers should save money and get private insurance to protect themselves.
In my opinion, both the government and gig workers have a role to play. I think gig workers should try to save money and plan for tough times, but I also believe the government should offer some help during big crises. The government could create special programs to help gig workers during economic problems, like giving them some unemployment benefits or financial aid. At the same time, they should encourage gig workers to learn new skills and plan for their future.
I also think it’s important to find a long-term solution. Maybe there could be a new type of worker category that’s between regular employees and independent contractors. This could give gig workers some basic protections without taking away the flexibility that makes gig work attractive.
In conclusion, while gig workers should try to secure their own financial future, the government also has a responsibility to help during big crises. A balanced approach that includes both government support and individual responsibility would be the best way to help gig workers and society.
(Word count: 368)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This structure is crucial for achieving a high band score.
Addressing the Task: Both essays fully address the task by discussing both views and providing a personal opinion. The Band 8-9 essay offers a more nuanced and in-depth analysis.
Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between ideas. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated cohesive devices.
Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses a wider range of vocabulary and more sophisticated expressions. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates ideas.
Grammar: Both essays use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates greater grammatical range and accuracy.
Development of Ideas: The Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed explanations and examples to support its arguments, while the Band 6-7 essay offers simpler, more straightforward explanations.
Vocabulary to Remember
Gig economy (noun) – /ɡɪɡ ɪˈkɒnəmi/ – An economy characterized by short-term contracts and freelance work rather than permanent jobs.
Precarious (adjective) – /prɪˈkeəriəs/ – Not securely held or in position; dangerously likely to fall or collapse.
Vulnerability (noun) – /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/ – The quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.
Moral hazard (noun) – /ˈmɒrəl ˈhæzəd/ – A situation in which one party gets involved in a risky event knowing that it is protected against the risk and the other party will incur the cost.
Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
Unprecedented (adjective) – /ʌnˈpresɪdentɪd/ – Never done or known before.
Subsidies (noun) – /ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ – Money granted by the state or a public body to help an industry or business keep the price of a commodity or service low.
Resilience (noun) – /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
In conclusion, the topic of supporting gig economy workers during crises is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. When addressing this topic, remember to discuss both perspectives fully, provide your own opinion, and support your arguments with clear examples and explanations. Pay attention to your essay structure, vocabulary usage, and grammatical accuracy to achieve a high band score.
For further practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:
- The long-term effects of the gig economy on traditional employment
- The role of technology in shaping the future of work
- Balancing worker protections with economic flexibility in the modern job market
Feel free to share 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 your IELTS Writing Task 2.