Economic crises and their impact on workers have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This topic is particularly relevant given the global economic challenges we’ve faced in recent years. Based on past exam trends and current economic conditions, it’s highly likely that questions related to supporting workers during economic downturns will continue to appear in future IELTS tests.
Let’s examine a sample question that reflects this theme:
In times of economic crisis, some people think that governments should focus on protecting jobs, while others argue that governments should prioritize supporting businesses. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should protect jobs during economic crises
- Discuss the alternative view that governments should support businesses
- Provide your own opinion on which approach is more effective
Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your position.
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
In times of economic turmoil, the question of how governments should allocate their resources becomes crucial. While some argue for direct job protection measures, others advocate for supporting businesses as an indirect means of safeguarding employment. In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines both strategies is likely to be most effective.
Those who favor job protection argue that it provides immediate relief to workers and their families. Government initiatives such as wage subsidies, job retention schemes, and public works programs can help maintain employment levels and provide a safety net for vulnerable workers. This approach can prevent a sudden spike in unemployment, which could have devastating social and economic consequences. Moreover, by keeping people employed, governments can help maintain consumer spending, which is vital for economic recovery.
On the other hand, proponents of business support argue that by helping companies survive the crisis, governments indirectly protect jobs in the long term. This could involve measures such as tax relief, low-interest loans, or grants to help businesses adapt to changing economic conditions. The rationale is that if businesses remain viable, they will be able to retain their workforce and potentially create new jobs as the economy recovers. Additionally, supporting businesses may be more cost-effective than direct job protection measures, as it allows market forces to determine which jobs are sustainable in the long run.
In my view, the most effective approach is to implement a combination of both strategies. Governments should provide targeted support to businesses in sectors with long-term viability, while also offering direct assistance to workers in industries that may face prolonged challenges. This balanced approach can help maintain economic stability in the short term while fostering conditions for sustainable growth and job creation in the future.
In conclusion, while both job protection and business support have their merits, a nuanced strategy that incorporates elements of both is likely to be most effective in navigating economic crises. Governments must carefully assess their specific economic circumstances and adapt their policies accordingly to ensure the best outcomes for workers and the broader economy.
(Word count: 323)
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
During economic crises, there are different opinions on how governments should help. Some people think protecting jobs is most important, while others believe supporting businesses is better. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support protecting jobs say it helps workers directly. Governments can give money to companies to keep paying workers, or create new jobs in public projects. This helps people keep their jobs and can stop unemployment from getting very high. When people have jobs, they can still buy things, which is good for the economy.
On the other hand, people who think supporting businesses is better say it helps jobs in a different way. If governments give money or tax breaks to businesses, these companies can stay open and keep their workers. This might be cheaper for the government than paying for all the jobs directly. Also, it lets the market decide which jobs are really needed.
In my opinion, I think governments should do both things. They should help some businesses that have a good chance of doing well in the future, but also give direct help to workers in industries that might have problems for a long time. This way, they can help both in the short term and the long term.
To conclude, while both ideas have good points, I believe a mix of both is the best way to help during an economic crisis. Governments need to think carefully about what will work best in their country.
(Word count: 249)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
-
Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a single main idea.
-
Balanced argument: For band 8-9, present a nuanced discussion of both viewpoints before giving your opinion. For band 6-7, a simpler comparison of the two views is acceptable.
-
Cohesion and coherence: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Higher band scores require more sophisticated linking devices.
-
Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to economics and employment. Band 8-9 essays should include less common words and phrases, while band 6-7 can use more everyday language.
-
Grammar: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. Band 8-9 essays should demonstrate a wider range of structures with minimal errors.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Economic crisis (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈkraɪsɪs/ – a situation in which the economy of a country experiences a sudden downturn
- Job retention (noun) /dʒɒb rɪˈtenʃn/ – the practice of keeping employees in their jobs
- Wage subsidies (noun) /weɪdʒ ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ – financial support given to employers to pay workers’ wages
- Tax relief (noun) /tæks rɪˈliːf/ – a reduction in the amount of tax that has to be paid
- Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪəbl/ – capable of working successfully
- Unemployment (noun) /ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt/ – the state of not having a job
- Consumer spending (noun) /kənˈsjuːmə ˈspendɪŋ/ – the amount of money spent by households
- Economic recovery (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk rɪˈkʌvəri/ – the process of an economy regaining its strength after a period of decline
- Market forces (noun) /ˈmɑːkɪt ˈfɔːsɪz/ – the economic factors that affect the price and availability of goods and services
- Sustainable growth (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl ɡrəʊθ/ – economic development that can be maintained without depleting resources
Conclusion
The topic of supporting workers during economic crises is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government in job creation during recessions
- Balancing economic growth with worker protection
- The impact of automation on employment during economic downturns
- Strategies for retraining workers in declining industries
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.