International trade and its impact on employment is a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Understanding this subject is crucial for test-takers aiming to achieve high band scores. Based on past exam trends and current global economic discussions, we can expect questions related to the role of international trade in job creation to appear frequently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore this topic in depth with a sample question and model essays.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that international trade creates employment opportunities, while others argue that it leads to job losses in certain sectors. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss how international trade can create jobs
- Explain how it might lead to job losses
- Present your own perspective on the issue
It’s essential to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.
Model Essay for Band 8-9
International trade’s impact on employment is a complex and often debated topic in economics. While some argue that it generates new job opportunities, others contend that it can lead to significant job losses in certain industries. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this multifaceted issue.
Proponents of international trade argue that it creates employment in several ways. Firstly, increased export opportunities allow domestic companies to expand, often resulting in more hiring to meet growing demand. For example, when a country specializes in producing goods it has a comparative advantage in, it can sell these products globally, potentially leading to job growth in those sectors. Additionally, foreign investment attracted by open trade policies can create new jobs directly through the establishment of multinational corporations and indirectly through the development of supporting industries.
On the other hand, critics argue that international trade can lead to significant job losses, particularly in sectors facing stiff competition from imports. When domestic industries cannot compete with cheaper foreign goods, they may be forced to downsize or shut down, resulting in unemployment. This phenomenon has been observed in many developed countries where manufacturing jobs have been lost to countries with lower labor costs. Furthermore, the relocation of production facilities to countries with more favorable economic conditions can lead to job displacement in the original country.
In my opinion, while international trade can indeed cause short-term job losses in certain sectors, its overall long-term effect on employment is generally positive. The key lies in a country’s ability to adapt to changing global economic landscapes. Governments and industries need to invest in education and training programs to help workers transition to new, emerging sectors created by international trade. Moreover, the benefits of trade, such as lower prices for consumers and increased economic efficiency, can stimulate overall economic growth, which in turn can create more jobs across various sectors.
In conclusion, the relationship between international trade and job creation is not straightforward. While it can lead to job losses in some areas, it also creates new opportunities in others. The challenge for policymakers is to manage this transition effectively, ensuring that the benefits of trade are distributed widely across society.
(Word count: 349)
International trade and job creation
Model Essay for Band 6-7
International trade is a complex topic that affects jobs in different ways. Some people think it creates more jobs, while others believe it causes job losses. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, international trade can create new job opportunities. When countries trade more, companies can sell their products to more customers around the world. This means they might need to hire more workers to make and sell these products. For example, if a country is good at making cars and can sell them to other countries, car companies might hire more people. Also, when foreign companies invest in a country, they often create new jobs.
However, international trade can also lead to job losses in some areas. When cheaper products from other countries enter the market, local companies might struggle to compete. This can cause them to reduce their workforce or even close down. For instance, many factories in developed countries have closed because they can’t compete with cheaper products from countries with lower labor costs.
In my opinion, while international trade can cause some job losses in the short term, it generally creates more jobs and opportunities in the long run. I think the key is for countries to help workers learn new skills so they can find jobs in growing industries. Governments should provide training programs to help people adapt to changes in the job market caused by international trade.
To conclude, international trade has both positive and negative effects on jobs. While it can lead to job losses in some sectors, it also creates new opportunities in others. The challenge is to manage these changes effectively to ensure that more people benefit from international trade.
(Word count: 276)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a single main idea.
Vocabulary: Use a range of vocabulary related to economics and employment. For band 8-9, incorporate more sophisticated terms and phrases. For band 6-7, focus on using relevant vocabulary accurately.
Grammar: For higher bands, use a variety of complex sentence structures. For band 6-7, aim for a mix of simple and complex sentences with few errors.
Task Response: Address all parts of the question. For band 8-9, provide a more nuanced analysis. For band 6-7, ensure you cover the basics of both views and your opinion.
Cohesion and Coherence: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. Ensure your essay flows logically from one point to the next.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
Comparative advantage (noun) /kəmˈpærətɪv ædˈvæntɪdʒ/: The ability of an individual or group to carry out a particular economic activity more efficiently than another activity.
Multinational corporation (noun) /mʌltiˈnæʃənl kɔːrpəˈreɪʃn/: A company that operates in multiple countries.
Downsize (verb) /ˈdaʊnsaɪz/: To reduce in size, especially to lay off workers.
Job displacement (noun) /dʒɒb dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/: The elimination of jobs due to technological or economic changes.
Economic efficiency (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɪˈfɪʃənsi/: The use of resources in a way that maximizes the production of goods and services.
Workforce (noun) /ˈwɜːkfɔːs/: The total number of people employed or available for work.
Adapt (verb) /əˈdæpt/: To change or adjust to new conditions.
Stimulate (verb) /ˈstɪmjuleɪt/: To encourage or promote activity or development.
Conclusion
Understanding the role of international trade in job creation is crucial for IELTS Writing Task 2 success. Practice writing essays on this topic, considering various perspectives and using appropriate vocabulary and structures. Remember to analyze the question carefully, plan your response, and manage your time effectively during the exam.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of globalization on local job markets
- The role of government in protecting domestic jobs in the face of international competition
- The importance of skills development in a globalized economy
We encourage you to write your own essay based on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.