Maternity leave is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, often framed as a discussion of its advantages and disadvantages. Based on an analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, this topic is likely to continue being a popular choice for test-makers due to its relevance in modern society and workplace dynamics. Let’s examine a relevant essay question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that women should be given paid maternity leave from work. Others believe that paid maternity leave is not necessary. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for paid maternity leave
- Discuss arguments against paid maternity leave
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, along with explanations of why they received their respective scores.
Band 8 Sample Essay
In today’s world, the debate over paid maternity leave has gained significant attention. While some argue that it is an essential benefit for working mothers, others contend that it is unnecessary. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of paid maternity leave argue that it provides crucial support for new mothers and their children. This time off allows women to recover physically from childbirth and establish a strong bond with their newborns. Moreover, it ensures financial stability during a period when mothers are unable to work, reducing stress and promoting better health outcomes for both mother and child. From a societal perspective, paid maternity leave can also encourage women to remain in the workforce long-term, contributing to gender equality and economic growth.
On the other hand, those against paid maternity leave often cite the financial burden it places on employers and potential negative impacts on businesses. Small companies, in particular, may struggle to cover the costs of paid leave and temporary replacements. Critics also argue that extended absences can disrupt workflow and productivity. Additionally, some contend that offering paid maternity leave exclusively to women may reinforce gender stereotypes and potentially lead to discrimination in hiring practices.
In my opinion, the advantages of paid maternity leave significantly outweigh the disadvantages. While I acknowledge the challenges it may pose for some businesses, I believe that the long-term benefits for families, women’s careers, and society as a whole justify its implementation. Governments and companies should work together to create sustainable maternity leave policies that support both employees and employers.
In conclusion, paid maternity leave is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. However, given its potential to improve health outcomes, promote gender equality, and support workforce participation, I strongly believe that it should be provided to working mothers. To address concerns, a balanced approach that considers the needs of both employees and employers should be adopted when implementing such policies.
Maternity leave benefits for working mothers and their newborns
Explanation for Band 8 Score
This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to a Band 8 score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words and phrases.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “gender equality” and “discrimination in hiring practices”.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, many people debate about whether women should get paid maternity leave or not. Some think it’s important, while others say it’s not necessary. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.
People who support paid maternity leave say it helps new mothers. When a woman has a baby, she needs time to rest and take care of the child. If she gets paid during this time, she doesn’t have to worry about money. This is good for the mother’s health and the baby’s health too. Also, it means women can keep their jobs and come back to work later.
However, some people think paid maternity leave is not needed. They say it costs companies too much money, especially small businesses. It can be hard for companies to pay someone who is not working and also pay someone else to do their job. Some people also think it’s not fair to give this benefit only to women.
In my opinion, I think paid maternity leave is a good thing. Even though it might be difficult for some companies, it is important for women and families. It helps women stay in their jobs and take care of their babies at the same time. Maybe the government can help companies pay for it so it’s not too hard for them.
To conclude, there are good reasons for and against paid maternity leave. But I believe the good things about it are more important than the problems it might cause. If we find a way to make it work for everyone, paid maternity leave can be very helpful for society.
Illustration depicting the debate over maternity leave policies
Explanation for Band 6.5 Score
This essay demonstrates qualities that contribute to a Band 6.5 score:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the discussion of each view could be more detailed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: There is a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be elaborated on further with more specific examples or deeper analysis.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Maternity leave (noun) – /məˈtɜːnəti liːv/ – time off work for a mother before and after having a baby
- Proponents (noun) – /prəˈpəʊnənts/ – people who advocate for or support something
- Gender equality (noun phrase) – /ˈdʒendər iˈkwɒləti/ – the state of equal rights and opportunities for men and women
- Financial stability (noun phrase) – /faɪˈnænʃəl stəˈbɪləti/ – the state of having steady income and financial security
- Workforce participation (noun phrase) – /ˈwɜːkfɔːs pɑːˌtɪsɪˈpeɪʃən/ – the active engagement of people in the labor market
- Discrimination (noun) – /dɪˌskrɪmɪˈneɪʃən/ – unfair treatment based on personal characteristics
- Implement (verb) – /ˈɪmplɪment/ – to put a plan or system into action
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain level or rate
- Disrupt (verb) – /dɪsˈrʌpt/ – to interrupt the normal course or unity of something
- Reinforce (verb) – /ˌriːɪnˈfɔːs/ – to strengthen or support
In conclusion, the topic of maternity leave and its advantages and disadvantages is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of fathers in childcare and paternity leave
- Government support for working parents
- Work-life balance in modern society
- Gender equality in the workplace
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.
