Globalization and its effects on job security is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This topic has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject due to its relevance in today’s interconnected world. Let’s explore this theme through a sample question and provide in-depth analysis along with model essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people think that globalization has negative effects on job security. Others believe it creates more job opportunities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the negative effects of globalization on job security
- Explore how globalization creates more job opportunities
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at two sample essays that tackle this topic, one aiming for a Band 8-9 and another for a Band 6-7.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Globalization, the process of increased interconnectedness and interdependence of world economies, has become a double-edged sword in the realm of employment. While some argue that it poses a threat to job security, others contend that it opens up a plethora of new opportunities. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a balanced view on this complex issue.
On one hand, globalization has undeniably led to job losses in certain sectors, particularly in developed countries. As companies seek to reduce costs, they often outsource manufacturing and service jobs to countries with lower labor costs. This has resulted in the closure of factories and the displacement of workers in industries such as textiles, electronics, and customer service. Furthermore, the rapid pace of technological advancement, accelerated by global competition, has led to the automation of many jobs, further exacerbating job insecurity.
Conversely, proponents of globalization argue that it has created numerous new job opportunities. The expansion of international trade has led to the growth of export-oriented industries, creating jobs in sectors such as logistics, international finance, and e-commerce. Additionally, the global exchange of ideas and technologies has fostered innovation, giving rise to entirely new industries and job categories that didn’t exist a few decades ago. For instance, the rise of the digital economy has created a demand for roles such as social media managers, data scientists, and app developers.
In my opinion, while globalization does pose challenges to job security in certain traditional sectors, its overall impact on employment is largely positive. The key lies in adaptability and continuous learning. Governments and individuals must invest in education and skills development to prepare for the evolving job market. Moreover, the benefits of globalization, such as economic growth and improved living standards, often outweigh the localized job losses in the long run.
In conclusion, globalization’s impact on job security is multifaceted. While it does lead to job displacement in some areas, it simultaneously creates new opportunities in others. The challenge for societies is to manage this transition effectively, ensuring that the benefits of globalization are widely shared and that workers are equipped to thrive in the global economy.
(Word count: 345)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Globalization has changed the way we work and find jobs. Some people think it’s bad for job security, while others believe it creates more job opportunities. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On the negative side, globalization can cause people to lose their jobs. Many companies move their factories to countries where workers are paid less. This means workers in developed countries might lose their jobs. For example, many manufacturing jobs have moved from the United States to countries like China. Also, new technologies that come with globalization can replace human workers, making some jobs disappear.
However, globalization also creates new job opportunities. When companies expand globally, they need people to work in different countries. This creates jobs in areas like international trade, marketing, and language translation. The internet, which is a big part of globalization, has also created many new jobs that didn’t exist before, like web designers and social media managers.
In my opinion, globalization has both good and bad effects on jobs, but overall, it creates more opportunities than problems. While some traditional jobs may be lost, new and exciting careers are being created. The important thing is for people to be ready to learn new skills and adapt to changes in the job market.
To conclude, globalization affects job security in different ways. It can cause some job losses, but it also opens up new possibilities. I believe that with the right education and skills, people can benefit from the job opportunities that globalization brings.
(Word count: 262)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, a paragraph for personal opinion, and a conclusion. This organization is crucial for achieving a high band score.
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Paragraph Development: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development with clear topic sentences, supporting details, and examples. The Band 6-7 essay, while coherent, has simpler paragraph structures.
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Vocabulary: The higher band essay uses a wider range of vocabulary and more sophisticated expressions (e.g., “double-edged sword,” “plethora,” “exacerbating”). The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates ideas.
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Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions. Both avoid major grammatical errors, which is essential for a good score.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced and in-depth analysis.
Vocabulary to Remember
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Globalization (noun) /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process by which businesses or other organizations develop international influence or start operating on an international scale
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Outsource (verb) /ˈaʊtsɔːs/ – obtain (goods or a service) by contract from an outside supplier
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Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – the moving of something from its place or position
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Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse
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Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to adjust to new conditions
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Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
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Interdependence (noun) /ˌɪntədɪˈpendəns/ – the dependence of two or more people or things on each other
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Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – the action or process of innovating, introducing new ideas, methods, or products
To practice and improve your IELTS Writing skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you internalize the structures and vocabulary needed for a high-scoring IELTS essay. Remember, consistent practice is key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2!
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