Life expectancy and medical advances have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2019-2023. This frequency suggests candidates should be well-prepared to discuss healthcare-related subjects. Let’s analyze a recent exam question that exemplifies this theme.
Task Analysis
Some people say the main advantage of increasing life expectancy is that people can enjoy a longer retirement period. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on whether longer retirement is the primary benefit of increased life expectancy
- Support their position with relevant examples and explanations
- Consider other potential advantages of longer life spans
- Maintain a clear and consistent argument throughout
Understanding IELTS task analysis for life expectancy essay
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
Medical advancements have significantly extended human life expectancy, but I strongly disagree that a prolonged retirement period is the main advantage of this phenomenon. While extended retirement certainly offers benefits, there are far more crucial advantages that impact both individuals and society more profoundly.
The ability to contribute to society for longer periods represents a more significant advantage of increased longevity. Many professionals now maintain their productivity well into their sixties and seventies, sharing valuable expertise and mentoring younger generations. For instance, experienced doctors can continue treating patients and training medical students, while seasoned researchers can pursue groundbreaking discoveries well beyond traditional retirement age.
Furthermore, extended life expectancy allows people to pursue multiple careers and interests throughout their lifetime. Modern medical advances have not only extended lifespan but also improved the quality of life, enabling individuals to reinvent themselves professionally and personally. For example, many people now start new businesses or pursue higher education in their fifties or sixties, contributing to economic growth and personal fulfillment.
The strengthening of intergenerational relationships is another crucial advantage that surpasses the benefits of longer retirement. Grandparents can play active roles in their grandchildren’s lives for extended periods, fostering stronger family bonds and facilitating the transfer of cultural knowledge and values. This extended family interaction creates more resilient support systems and enriches society’s social fabric.
In conclusion, while a longer retirement period is beneficial, it is not the primary advantage of increased life expectancy. The ability to contribute meaningfully to society, pursue multiple life paths, and strengthen family bonds represent more significant benefits that enhance both individual lives and societal well-being.
Senior professional continuing career beyond retirement age
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I disagree that the main advantage of increasing life expectancy is just about having a longer retirement. I think there are many other important benefits that come from living longer.
Firstly, people can work for more years now. This is good because they can earn more money and use their experience to help younger workers. For example, in my country, many older teachers continue teaching part-time after retirement age, which helps schools that need experienced teachers.
Another advantage is that people can spend more time with their families. Grandparents can watch their grandchildren grow up and help take care of them. This helps working parents who need support with childcare. Also, older people can share stories and traditions with younger family members.
Living longer also means people have more time to try new things. Some old people start new hobbies or even go back to school to study. For example, my neighbor who is 65 years old started learning photography and now takes beautiful pictures at community events.
The only problem is that some old people might get sick and need more medical care, which can be expensive. However, I think the good things about living longer are more important than this problem.
In conclusion, I think having a longer retirement is good but it’s not the main advantage of living longer. There are many other benefits like working longer, spending time with family, and trying new activities that are more important.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Clear, logical organization with coherent paragraphs
- Relevant examples and detailed explanations
- Advanced linking words and transitions
- Formal academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic but clear vocabulary
- Simple but mostly accurate grammar
- Some repetition of ideas
- Basic linking words
- More personal tone and examples
Key Vocabulary
- life expectancy (n) /laɪf ɪkˈspektənsi/ – the average time a person is expected to live
- longevity (n) /lɒnˈdʒevəti/ – long life
- intergenerational (adj) /ˌɪntəˌdʒenəˈreɪʃənəl/ – between different generations
- resilient (adj) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – able to recover quickly from difficulties
- profound (adj) /prəˈfaʊnd/ – deep and significant
- groundbreaking (adj) /ˈɡraʊndˌbreɪkɪŋ/ – innovative; pioneering
- reinvent (v) /ˌriːɪnˈvent/ – to change something so much that it appears entirely new
- demographic (n) /ˌdeməˈɡræfɪk/ – statistical data relating to population
Conclusion
This topic continues to be relevant in IELTS examinations. Practice writing about related themes such as:
- Healthcare costs in aging societies
- Work-life balance in extended careers
- Social implications of longer lifespans
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
