IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Economic Policies and Unemployment

Economic policies and their impact on unemployment are frequent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared in various forms over the years, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared. Based on past exam trends, we can expect questions related to government interventions, fiscal policies, and job creation strategies to continue featuring prominently in future tests.

Let’s examine a relevant question that reflects the complexity of this subject:

Some people believe that the government should focus on creating more job opportunities to reduce unemployment, while others think improving education and training is more effective. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question addresses two potential approaches to reducing unemployment:

1. Government-led job creation
2. Enhancing education and training programs

The task requires you to:

• Discuss both perspectives
• Provide your personal viewpoint
• Support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations

Sample Essay (Band 8-9)

The issue of unemployment remains a significant challenge for many countries, with debates ongoing about the most effective strategies to address it. While some advocate for direct government intervention in job creation, others argue that improving education and training is a more sustainable solution. In my opinion, a balanced approach combining both strategies is likely to yield the best results.

Those who support government-led job creation argue that it provides an immediate solution to unemployment. By initiating large-scale public works projects or offering incentives to businesses for hiring, governments can quickly reduce unemployment rates. For instance, during the Great Depression, Roosevelt’s New Deal programs in the United States created millions of jobs through public infrastructure projects. This approach can be particularly effective during economic downturns when private sector job growth is stagnant.

On the other hand, proponents of education and training improvements contend that this approach addresses the root causes of unemployment, particularly structural unemployment. By enhancing the skills and knowledge of the workforce, individuals become more employable and adaptable to changing job market demands. For example, countries like Germany, with their robust vocational training systems, have consistently maintained lower unemployment rates compared to many of their European counterparts. This approach not only reduces unemployment but also contributes to long-term economic growth and competitiveness.

In my view, the most effective strategy would be to implement a combination of both approaches. While government-led job creation can provide immediate relief and stimulate economic activity, investing in education and training ensures long-term employability and economic resilience. Governments could, for instance, create job programs in emerging sectors like renewable energy or technology, while simultaneously offering training programs to equip workers with the necessary skills for these industries.

In conclusion, addressing unemployment requires a multifaceted approach. By balancing immediate job creation with long-term investments in human capital, countries can not only reduce unemployment in the short term but also build a workforce capable of adapting to future economic challenges.

(Word count: 309)

Economic policy and unemployment graph

Sample Essay (Band 6-7)

Unemployment is a big problem in many countries. Some people think the government should make more jobs to solve this, but others believe better education and training is the answer. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

People who support government job creation say it’s a quick way to reduce unemployment. When the government starts big projects like building roads or schools, it can hire many workers. This helps people get jobs fast and can improve the economy. For example, in some countries, the government gives money to companies if they hire more workers. This can help reduce unemployment quickly.

On the other hand, those who prefer improving education and training think it’s better for the long term. They say that if people have better skills, they can find jobs more easily. Good education also helps people adapt to new types of jobs. For instance, in countries with good training programs, like Germany, unemployment is often lower because workers have the right skills for different jobs.

In my opinion, both ideas are important. I think the government should try to do both things. They can create some jobs to help people right now, but also improve education and training for the future. This way, people can get jobs quickly, and also be ready for new jobs in the future.

To conclude, I believe the best way to reduce unemployment is to use both strategies. The government should create some jobs and also make education and training better. This will help solve the problem now and in the future.

(Word count: 263)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on one main idea.

2. Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to economics and employment. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated terms and phrases.

3. Grammar: Demonstrate a variety of sentence structures. For Band 8-9, use complex sentences and advanced grammatical constructions accurately.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Ensure your essay flows logically from one point to the next.

5. Task Response: Address all parts of the question. For higher scores, provide a nuanced discussion of both viewpoints and a clear, well-supported personal opinion.

Useful Vocabulary for This Topic

1. Fiscal policy (noun) /ˈfɪskəl ˈpɒləsi/: Government policy regarding taxation and spending.

2. Structural unemployment (noun) /ˈstrʌktʃərəl ʌnɪmˈplɔɪmənt/: Unemployment caused by a mismatch between the skills workers have and the skills required for available jobs.

3. Vocational training (noun) /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl ˈtreɪnɪŋ/: Education that prepares people for specific trades or crafts.

4. Economic stimulus (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈstɪmjʊləs/: Government actions to encourage economic activity.

5. Labor market (noun) /ˈleɪbə ˈmɑːkɪt/: The supply of available workers in relation to available work.

6. Employability (noun) /ɪmˌplɔɪəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being suitable for paid work.

7. Job creation (noun) /dʒɒb kriˈeɪʃn/: The process of providing new jobs, especially by government action.

8. Economic downturn (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈdaʊntɜːn/: A period of reduced economic activity.

9. Workforce development (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs dɪˈveləpmənt/: Initiatives to improve the skills and capabilities of employees.

10. Public sector employment (noun) /ˈpʌblɪk ˈsektər ɪmˈplɔɪmənt/: Jobs provided by the government or state-owned enterprises.

In conclusion, mastering essays on economic policies and unemployment requires a good understanding of key concepts, the ability to analyze different viewpoints, and the skill to articulate your thoughts clearly. Practice writing essays on related topics, such as the role of trade policy in job creation or how to reduce unemployment during economic downturns. Remember to use a variety of sentence structures, incorporate relevant vocabulary, and always support your arguments with examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement!