The topic of large supermarkets’ impact on small shops is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this issue is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to urban development, economic shifts, and community dynamics makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.
Some people say that the increasing number of large supermarkets is causing many small, local shops to close, which is having a negative impact on local communities. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to express their opinion on whether the proliferation of large supermarkets is detrimental to local communities due to the closure of small shops. Key points to address include:
- The relationship between supermarket growth and small shop closures
- The impact of these closures on local communities
- Potential positive aspects of supermarkets in communities
- Overall agreement or disagreement with the statement
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The proliferation of large supermarkets in recent years has undeniably transformed the retail landscape, leading to the closure of numerous small, local shops. While this shift has undoubtedly altered the fabric of local communities, I partially agree that the impact is entirely negative. This essay will explore both the detrimental effects and potential benefits of this trend.
On one hand, the decline of small, local shops can indeed have adverse consequences for communities. These establishments often serve as social hubs, fostering personal relationships between shopkeepers and customers, which contribute to a sense of community cohesion. Moreover, local shops frequently offer unique, locally-sourced products that reflect the area’s character and support regional producers. Their closure can lead to a homogenization of product offerings and a loss of local identity. Additionally, small business owners and their employees may face unemployment, potentially increasing economic strain within the community.
However, it would be remiss to overlook the potential benefits that large supermarkets can bring to local areas. These establishments often provide a wider range of products at competitive prices, which can be particularly beneficial for low-income families. Furthermore, supermarkets can create job opportunities, albeit often at entry-level positions, which can be valuable in areas with high unemployment rates. They may also attract other businesses to the area, potentially stimulating local economic growth.
Moreover, well-managed supermarkets can actively contribute to community development. Many implement corporate social responsibility programs, supporting local charities, schools, and community events. Some supermarkets have also begun to incorporate local products into their offerings, providing a platform for small producers to reach a wider market.
In conclusion, while the closure of small, local shops due to the rise of large supermarkets does pose challenges to community cohesion and local character, the impact is not uniformly negative. The key lies in striking a balance between the convenience and economic benefits of supermarkets and the preservation of local businesses that contribute to community identity. Local authorities and supermarkets themselves can play a role in mitigating negative impacts and fostering positive community engagement.
[Word count: 310]
Large supermarket's impact on small local shops
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The increasing number of large supermarkets has become a concern for many people because it is causing small, local shops to close down. Some argue that this trend is negatively affecting local communities. I agree with this statement to a large extent.
Firstly, when small shops close, it can change the character of a neighborhood. These shops often have a long history and are run by local families who know their customers well. They create a friendly atmosphere and help people feel connected to their community. When they disappear, the area can lose its unique identity and feel less welcoming.
Secondly, the closure of local shops can lead to job losses. While supermarkets do create jobs, they often employ fewer people relative to their size compared to multiple small shops. This can result in higher unemployment in the area, especially for older workers who may find it difficult to adapt to new jobs in large supermarkets.
However, it’s important to note that supermarkets can bring some benefits to communities. They often offer lower prices, which can be helpful for families on tight budgets. They also provide a wide range of products in one place, which is convenient for busy people. Some supermarkets also support local events or charities, which can be positive for the community.
Despite these advantages, I believe the negative impacts outweigh the benefits. The loss of small shops changes the social fabric of communities and can lead to a sense of disconnection among residents. It also reduces the diversity of shopping options and can make areas less interesting and appealing.
In conclusion, while supermarkets offer some advantages, their increasing dominance is largely detrimental to local communities. It’s important for town planners and policymakers to consider ways to support small, local businesses and maintain a balance between different types of shops.
[Word count: 295]
This essay demonstrates a clear position and provides relevant examples to support the argument. However, it lacks the depth and sophistication of vocabulary and sentence structure seen in the Band 8-9 essay. The ideas are less fully developed, and the conclusion is somewhat repetitive.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Nowadays, many big supermarkets are opening everywhere and small shops are closing. Some people think this is bad for communities. I agree with this idea.
First, small shops are important for communities. The owners know the customers and are friendly. This makes the area feel nice and people like living there. When these shops close, the place doesn’t feel the same anymore.
Second, when small shops close, people lose their jobs. This is bad for families who depend on these jobs. Big supermarkets might give some jobs, but not as many as all the small shops together.
Also, small shops sell different things that you can’t find in big supermarkets. This makes shopping more interesting. When only supermarkets are left, all the shops look the same and it’s boring.
But supermarkets have some good points too. They sell things cheaper, which is good for people who don’t have much money. They also have many different things in one place, so it’s easy to buy everything you need quickly.
In conclusion, I think big supermarkets are mostly bad for communities because they make small shops close. This changes the feeling of the area and people lose jobs. The government should help small shops stay open.
[Word count: 196]
This essay presents a clear opinion and provides some relevant points. However, it lacks depth in its arguments and uses simple vocabulary and sentence structures. The organization is basic, and the conclusion doesn’t fully summarize the main points or offer a broader perspective.
Explanation of Band Scores
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Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Demonstrates high cohesion and coherence throughout
-
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position throughout the essay
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Shows reasonable coherence and cohesion
-
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially, with limited development of ideas
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, adequate for the task but with some inaccuracy
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempts at complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
IELTS Writing Task 2 scoring criteria
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – rapid increase in the number or amount of something
- Cohesion (noun) – /kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – the action or fact of forming a united whole
- Homogenization (noun) – /həˌmɒdʒənaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – the process of making things uniform or similar
- Remiss (adjective) – /rɪˈmɪs/ – lacking care or attention to duty; negligent
- Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – make less severe, serious, or painful
- Detrimental (adjective) – /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – tending to cause harm
- Corporate social responsibility (noun phrase) – /ˈkɔːpərət ˈsəʊʃl rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – a business approach that contributes to sustainable development by delivering economic, social and environmental benefits for all stakeholders
- Economic strain (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk streɪn/ – pressure or tension on financial resources
- Community cohesion (noun phrase) – /kəˈmjuːnəti kəʊˈhiːʒn/ – the sense of togetherness and bonding exhibited by members of a community
- Unemployment rate (noun phrase) – /ˌʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt reɪt/ – the percentage of the total labor force that is unemployed but actively seeking employment and willing to work
In conclusion, the impact of large supermarkets on small shops and local communities is a complex issue that requires careful consideration. While there are undoubtedly challenges posed by the growth of supermarkets, there are also potential benefits that can arise from their presence. As you practice writing essays on this topic, consider exploring related themes such as the impact of e-commerce on local retail businesses or how globalization is affecting job markets in developing countries.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your arguments and writing style, preparing you for success in the IELTS Writing Task 2.
