Social mobility and its role in fostering equality is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and past exam questions, this theme is likely to continue being a popular subject in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question and analyze sample essays at different band scores to help you prepare effectively for your IELTS exam.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that social mobility is essential for creating a more equal society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question directly addresses the relationship between social mobility and equality, a topic that has been increasingly relevant in recent years. It requires candidates to express their opinion on whether social mobility contributes to a more equitable society.
Key points to consider:
- Define social mobility
- Explain the concept of equality in society
- Discuss how social mobility might influence equality
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Provide relevant examples to support your stance
Social Mobility and Equality
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Social mobility, the ability of individuals to move between different social strata, is often touted as a cornerstone of a fair and equitable society. I strongly agree that social mobility is crucial for fostering equality, as it provides opportunities for disadvantaged individuals to improve their socioeconomic status and contributes to a more balanced distribution of resources and opportunities.
Firstly, social mobility serves as a catalyst for breaking the cycle of intergenerational poverty. When individuals from lower-income backgrounds have access to quality education, skill development programs, and career advancement opportunities, they can ascend the socioeconomic ladder. This upward movement not only improves their personal circumstances but also sets a precedent for future generations, gradually reducing the wealth gap between different social classes.
Moreover, increased social mobility can lead to a more diverse representation in various sectors of society. As people from different backgrounds gain access to influential positions in business, politics, and academia, they bring diverse perspectives and experiences to decision-making processes. This diversity can result in more inclusive policies and practices that address the needs of a broader spectrum of society, thereby promoting equality.
However, it is important to acknowledge that social mobility alone may not be sufficient to create a fully equal society. Structural barriers, such as systemic discrimination and unequal access to resources, can still hinder true equality even in the presence of social mobility. Therefore, while social mobility is essential, it should be complemented by targeted policies and initiatives that address these underlying issues.
In conclusion, social mobility plays a vital role in fostering equality by providing pathways for individuals to improve their socioeconomic status and by diversifying representation in key areas of society. While it may not be a panacea for all societal inequalities, social mobility is undoubtedly a crucial component in the pursuit of a more equitable world. To truly achieve equality, societies must strive to enhance social mobility while simultaneously addressing systemic barriers that perpetuate inequality.
(Word count: 309)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a comprehensive understanding of the topic, warranting a Band 8-9 score. Here’s why:
Task Response (Band 8-9): The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position and developing it thoroughly. It discusses both the positive impact of social mobility on equality and acknowledges its limitations.
Coherence and Cohesion (Band 8-9): The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically connected using cohesive devices effectively.
Lexical Resource (Band 8-9): The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise, with a wide range of words and phrases (e.g., “catalyst,” “intergenerational poverty,” “socioeconomic ladder”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 8-9): The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately and appropriately. There are no noticeable errors.
Development and Support: Each main point is well-developed with explanations and examples, demonstrating a nuanced understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that social mobility is important for creating a more equal society. Social mobility means people can move up or down in society based on their efforts and abilities, not just their family background.
One reason social mobility helps equality is that it gives people from poor families a chance to get better jobs and earn more money. For example, if a child from a poor family can go to university and get a good job, they can improve their life and help their family too. This helps reduce the gap between rich and poor people over time.
Another way social mobility promotes equality is by bringing different ideas into important jobs. When people from various backgrounds become doctors, lawyers, or politicians, they can understand and help solve problems for different groups in society. This makes decisions fairer for everyone.
However, social mobility alone cannot solve all equality problems. There are still other issues like discrimination that can stop people from moving up in society even if they work hard. Also, some people might not have the same opportunities to improve their skills or education.
In conclusion, I believe social mobility is very important for making society more equal. It helps people from poor backgrounds have better lives and brings diverse perspectives to important roles. But we also need to address other problems to achieve true equality in society.
(Word count: 228)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication of the Band 8-9 essay, placing it in the Band 6-7 range. Here’s why:
Task Response (Band 6-7): The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed and supported with more specific examples.
Coherence and Cohesion (Band 6-7): The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. However, the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Lexical Resource (Band 6-7): The vocabulary used is generally appropriate and adequate for the task. However, it lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy (Band 6-7): The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.
Development and Support: While the main points are supported with some examples, the development of ideas is less thorough compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Social mobility (noun) – /ˈsəʊʃl məʊˈbɪləti/ – The ability to move between different levels in society
- Equality (noun) – /ɪˈkwɒləti/ – The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities
- Intergenerational (adjective) – /ˌɪntəˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənl/ – Relating to or affecting several generations
- Socioeconomic (adjective) – /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/ – Relating to or concerned with the interaction of social and economic factors
- Catalyst (noun) – /ˈkætəlɪst/ – A person or thing that precipitates an event or change
- Diversity (noun) – /daɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The state of being diverse; variety
- Inclusive (adjective) – /ɪnˈkluːsɪv/ – Including all the services or items normally expected or required
- Systemic (adjective) – /sɪˈstemɪk/ – Relating to a system, especially as opposed to a particular part
- Panacea (noun) – /ˌpænəˈsɪə/ – A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases
- Perpetuate (verb) – /pəˈpetʃueɪt/ – Make (something) continue indefinitely
Conclusion
The topic of social mobility and its impact on equality is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of education in promoting social mobility
- Government policies to enhance social mobility
- The relationship between social mobility and economic growth
- Challenges to social mobility in the modern world
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing your own essay on this topic and sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.