The topic of sports promoting gender equality has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years. Analysis of past exam questions shows this theme appearing approximately once every 4-6 months, often integrated with broader discussions about social equality and fairness in society. Let’s examine one commonly encountered question format on this topic.
Some people believe that sporting events should have equal prize money for both men and women, while others disagree with this view. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for and against equal prize money in sports
- Present their personal viewpoint
- Support all points with relevant examples
- Maintain a balanced approach while expressing opinion
Band 8 Sample Essay
In the ongoing debate about importance of equal pay in sports, there are compelling arguments on both sides. While some advocate for equal prize money regardless of gender, others maintain that financial rewards should be based on different factors. In my opinion, equal prize money is essential for promoting fairness and advancing gender equality in sports.
Those supporting equal prize money argue that athletes of both genders invest similar effort and dedication in their training and competitions. Female athletes undergo equally rigorous training regimens and face the same physical and mental challenges as their male counterparts. Furthermore, equal prize money sends a powerful message about gender equality to society, particularly young aspiring athletes.
Opponents of this view contend that prize money should reflect market forces such as viewership numbers and revenue generation. They argue that men’s sports often attract larger audiences and generate more advertising revenue, justifying higher prize money. Additionally, they claim that physical differences between genders can result in varying performance levels, which should be reflected in compensation.
However, I firmly believe that The importance of gender equity in sports extends beyond mere commercial considerations. Equal prize money can help break the cycle of underinvestment in women’s sports, which has historically led to lower visibility and commercial success. Moreover, recent trends show growing interest in women’s sports, suggesting that the commercial gap is largely due to historical bias rather than inherent market preferences.
In conclusion, while economic arguments against equal prize money exist, the broader social benefits and fundamental fairness principles strongly support prize money parity. Sports organizations should take the lead in promoting gender equality through equal compensation, potentially inspiring similar changes across other sectors of society.
Professional Athletes Competing for Equal Prize Money
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
The question of whether should sports events have gender parity in prize money is debated a lot these days. Some people think it should be equal, but others disagree. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one side, people say men and women should get the same prize money because it’s fair. Women work hard in training and competitions just like men. They spend many hours practicing and have to make sacrifices for their sport. Also, giving equal money shows that we respect both genders the same way in sports.
However, other people think men should get more prize money because more people watch men’s sports. They say that men’s games make more money from tickets and TV rights. Some also think that men’s sports are more exciting because men are usually stronger and faster.
In my opinion, I agree that prize money should be equal. Even though men’s sports might make more money now, this is because women’s sports didn’t get enough support in the past. If we give equal prize money, more girls will want to become professional athletes, and women’s sports will become more popular.
To conclude, while there are different views about prize money in sports, I believe equal pay is important for making sports fair for everyone. This will help make sports better for both men and women in the future.
Key Vocabulary
- Prize money (n) /praɪz ˈmʌni/ – money given as a prize to winners
- Gender parity (n) /ˈdʒendə ˈparɪti/ – equality between males and females
- Rigorous (adj) /ˈrɪɡərəs/ – extremely thorough and careful
- Viewership (n) /ˈvjuːəʃɪp/ – the number of viewers
- Commercial considerations (n) /kəˈmɜːʃəl kənˌsɪdəˈreɪʃənz/ – factors related to making money
- Underinvestment (n) /ˌʌndərɪnˈvestmənt/ – insufficient investment
- Revenue generation (n) /ˈrevənjuː ˌdʒenəˈreɪʃən/ – the process of producing income
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Should sports facilities provide equal access and resources for both genders?
- Do media organizations have a responsibility to provide equal coverage of men’s and women’s sports?
- Should schools enforce mixed-gender sports teams to promote equality?
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
