Economic diversification and its impact on job creation is a topic that has gained significant importance in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject reflects the growing global concern about economic stability and employment opportunities. Based on recent trends, there’s a high probability that questions related to this theme will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past tests:
Some people believe that economic growth is the key to solving global problems such as poverty and unemployment, while others argue that economic growth is causing environmental problems and should be limited. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question touches on the core debate surrounding economic growth, which is closely tied to economic diversification. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the positive impacts of economic growth, particularly on poverty and unemployment.
- Explore the negative environmental consequences of economic growth.
- Provide a balanced argument and personal opinion.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Economic growth has long been considered a panacea for global issues, particularly poverty and unemployment. However, this view is increasingly challenged by those who argue that unchecked growth exacerbates environmental problems. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of economic growth argue that it is essential for addressing poverty and unemployment. As economies expand, they create new job opportunities across various sectors, potentially reducing unemployment rates. Moreover, increased national wealth can lead to improved public services, education, and healthcare, thereby alleviating poverty. For instance, China’s rapid economic growth over the past few decades has lifted millions out of poverty and significantly reduced unemployment.
On the other hand, critics contend that economic growth, particularly when pursued without consideration for environmental impacts, can lead to severe ecological damage. The relentless pursuit of growth often results in deforestation, air and water pollution, and accelerated climate change. These environmental issues not only threaten the planet’s biodiversity but also pose long-term risks to human health and well-being. The industrial revolution in many Western countries serves as a historical example of growth at the expense of the environment.
In my opinion, the solution lies not in limiting economic growth per se, but in promoting sustainable and diversified economic development. By focusing on green technologies, renewable energy, and circular economy principles, we can achieve growth that creates jobs and reduces poverty while minimizing environmental impact. Economic diversification, in particular, can play a crucial role by reducing dependence on environmentally harmful industries and fostering innovation in sustainable sectors.
In conclusion, while economic growth is indeed vital for addressing global problems like poverty and unemployment, it must be pursued in a manner that is environmentally sustainable. The key lies in finding a balance between economic development and environmental protection, a challenge that requires global cooperation and innovative thinking.
(Word count: 298)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The debate about economic growth and its effects on global problems is a complex issue. Some people think it can solve problems like poverty and unemployment, while others believe it causes environmental problems. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Firstly, economic growth can help reduce poverty and unemployment. When the economy grows, more jobs are created in different areas. This means more people can find work and earn money. Also, when a country has more money, it can spend more on things like education and healthcare, which can help poor people. For example, many countries in Asia have grown economically in recent years, and this has helped many people get out of poverty.
However, economic growth can also cause problems for the environment. When countries try to grow their economies, they often use a lot of natural resources and create pollution. This can lead to problems like deforestation, air pollution, and climate change. These environmental issues can be very serious and affect people’s health and the planet’s future.
In my opinion, we need to find a way to have economic growth without damaging the environment too much. I think we can do this by focusing on new technologies that are better for the environment, like renewable energy. We should also try to diversify our economies, which means not relying too much on industries that harm the environment.
To conclude, while economic growth is important for solving problems like poverty and unemployment, we need to be careful about how we achieve it. We should aim for growth that doesn’t cause too much damage to the environment. This is a difficult challenge, but it’s important for our future.
(Word count: 275)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, and a conclusion with a personal opinion.
Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
Examples: Both essays provide specific examples to support their arguments, which is crucial for a high-scoring essay.
Balance: Both essays present a balanced view of the argument before stating a personal opinion.
Coherence: The essays use linking words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.
Economic Diversification and Job Creation
Important Vocabulary to Remember
Economic diversification (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk daɪˌvɜːsɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/: The process of shifting an economy into diverse markets or products.
Sustainable development (noun) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations’ ability to meet their own needs.
Circular economy (noun) /ˈsɜːkjələr iˈkɒnəmi/: An economic system aimed at eliminating waste and the continual use of resources.
Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
Panacea (noun) /ˌpænəˈsiːə/: A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases.
Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/: To make a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling worse.
Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/: To make suffering, deficiency, or a problem less severe.
Unchecked (adjective) /ʌnˈtʃekt/: Not restrained or controlled.
Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/: The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
Conclusion
The role of economic diversification in job creation is a crucial topic in today’s globalized world. As we’ve seen in the sample essays, it’s important to consider both the positive impacts of economic growth on employment and poverty reduction, as well as the potential environmental consequences. When writing about this topic, focus on providing a balanced argument, using specific examples, and incorporating relevant vocabulary.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of technological advancement on job markets in developing countries.
- The role of government policies in promoting sustainable economic growth.
- The challenges and opportunities of transitioning to a green economy.
Remember to practice writing your own essays and share them in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
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