The topic of green jobs and their impact on economic recovery has gained significant traction in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. As an experienced IELTS instructor, I’ve observed a growing trend in questions related to environmental sustainability and its economic implications. This subject is likely to appear more frequently in future tests, given its relevance to global economic and environmental challenges.
Let’s examine a sample question that reflects this trend:
Some people believe that creating more green jobs is the key to economic recovery after a recession. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to consider the role of green jobs in economic recovery post-recession. It’s essential to:
- Understand the concept of ‘green jobs’
- Consider the relationship between green jobs and economic recovery
- Formulate a clear opinion on the extent to which you agree or disagree
- Provide well-reasoned arguments to support your stance
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that addresses the question effectively:
The notion that green jobs play a pivotal role in economic recovery following a recession has gained traction in recent years. While I agree that expanding the green sector can contribute significantly to economic rejuvenation, I believe it is one of several crucial factors rather than the sole key to recovery.
Undoubtedly, the creation of green jobs can substantially boost economic recovery. Firstly, investments in renewable energy, sustainable agriculture, and eco-friendly infrastructure projects can generate a multitude of employment opportunities. This not only reduces unemployment rates but also stimulates economic growth through increased consumer spending. Moreover, the development of green technologies often leads to innovation and the emergence of new industries, fostering long-term economic sustainability and competitiveness in the global market.
However, it would be an oversimplification to consider green jobs as the only pathway to economic recovery. A comprehensive approach that incorporates various sectors is essential for robust economic rejuvenation. Traditional industries, such as manufacturing and services, still play a vital role in many economies and cannot be overlooked. Additionally, investments in education, healthcare, and digital infrastructure are equally important for creating a resilient and adaptable workforce capable of driving economic growth across multiple sectors.
Furthermore, the transition to a green economy, while beneficial in the long run, may pose short-term challenges. The initial costs of implementing green technologies and retraining workers can be substantial, potentially slowing immediate economic recovery. It is crucial to balance the promotion of green jobs with measures that support existing industries and workers during the transition period.
In conclusion, while I agree that green jobs can significantly contribute to economic recovery, I believe they should be part of a broader, multi-faceted approach. A balanced strategy that combines the development of green sectors with support for traditional industries and investments in human capital is more likely to achieve sustainable and inclusive economic growth post-recession.
(Word count: 310)
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:
In recent years, many people have suggested that creating more green jobs is the main way to help the economy recover after a recession. I partially agree with this idea, but I think there are other important factors to consider as well.
On one hand, green jobs can definitely help the economy. When governments and companies invest in things like renewable energy or eco-friendly buildings, they create new jobs. This means more people have work and can spend money, which is good for the economy. Also, developing new green technologies can lead to new businesses and industries, which can help the economy grow in the long term.
However, I don’t think green jobs are the only answer to economic recovery. Other types of jobs and industries are also important. For example, traditional manufacturing, technology, and service jobs still employ many people and contribute a lot to the economy. It’s important to support these sectors too. Additionally, improving education and healthcare can also help the economy by creating a healthier and more skilled workforce.
Another point to consider is that creating green jobs can be expensive at first. It might cost a lot of money to set up new green industries or train workers for new green jobs. This could actually slow down economic recovery in the short term, even if it’s helpful in the long run.
In conclusion, while I agree that green jobs can play an important role in economic recovery, I don’t think they are the only solution. A balanced approach that includes green jobs along with support for other industries and investments in education and healthcare is probably the best way to help the economy recover after a recession.
(Word count: 275)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The higher-scoring essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary (e.g., “pivotal,” “rejuvenation,” “multitude”) compared to the Band 6-7 essay. However, both use topic-specific terms effectively.
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Grammar: The higher-scoring essay employs a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but still maintains accuracy.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more nuanced arguments and a clearer position.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated use of linking words and cohesive devices.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Green jobs (noun) – /griːn dʒɒbz/ – Employment in the environmental or renewable energy sectors
- Economic recovery (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk rɪˈkʌvəri/ – The process of an economy regaining its strength after a period of decline
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources
- Renewable energy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from sources that are naturally replenished
- Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – The introduction of new ideas, methods, or products
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
- Rejuvenation (noun) – /rɪˌdʒuːvəˈneɪʃn/ – The action or process of making someone or something look or feel better, younger, or more vital
- Competitiveness (noun) – /kəmˈpetɪtɪvnəs/ – The quality of being as good as or better than others of a comparable nature
- Resilient (adjective) – /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
- Multi-faceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
In conclusion, the topic of green jobs and their role in economic recovery is highly relevant to current IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
- Government policies to promote green industries
- The challenges of transitioning to a green economy
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide well-reasoned arguments. Practice by writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning will significantly enhance your IELTS Writing skills.