Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: The Role of Trade Policy in Job Creation – Sample Essays and Analysis

Trade policy and its impact on employment is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared in various forms in past exams and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Understanding how to approach this topic can significantly boost your IELTS writing score. Let’s explore a specific question related to trade policy and job creation, along with sample essays and detailed analysis.

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that governments should focus on creating jobs through trade policies, while others argue that other factors are more important for job creation. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that trade policies should be the government’s focus for job creation
2. Discuss the view that other factors are more important for job creation
3. Provide your 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 two sample essays that tackle this topic, one aiming for a Band 8-9 and another for a Band 6-7.

Trade Policy and Job Creation

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Trade policies and their role in job creation have been a subject of intense debate among policymakers and economists. While some argue that governments should prioritize trade policies as a means of generating employment, others contend that alternative factors play a more significant role in job creation. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a balanced view on this complex issue.

Proponents of trade policy-focused job creation argue that well-crafted trade agreements and regulations can significantly boost employment opportunities. They assert that by reducing trade barriers, governments can encourage exports, leading to increased production and, consequently, more jobs in export-oriented industries. Furthermore, strategic trade policies can attract foreign investment, potentially creating new employment sectors. For instance, countries like Singapore have successfully used free trade agreements to stimulate economic growth and create a diverse job market.

On the other hand, critics of this approach argue that other factors are more crucial for sustainable job creation. They emphasize the importance of education and skills training, technological innovation, and domestic economic policies. These elements, they claim, are fundamental in creating a workforce that is adaptable to changing market demands and capable of driving economic growth from within. Countries like Germany, with their strong emphasis on vocational training and innovation, exemplify how these factors can lead to robust job markets even in the face of global economic challenges.

In my opinion, while trade policies undoubtedly play a role in job creation, they should not be the sole focus of government efforts. A balanced approach that combines strategic trade policies with investments in education, innovation, and domestic economic development is likely to yield the most sustainable and diverse job market. Trade policies can open doors for new opportunities, but it is the preparedness of the workforce and the overall economic environment that determines how effectively these opportunities can be leveraged for job creation.

In conclusion, the relationship between trade policies and job creation is complex and multifaceted. While trade policies can certainly contribute to employment growth, they should be part of a broader, more holistic approach to economic development and job creation. Governments would do well to consider a balanced strategy that addresses both international trade and domestic factors to ensure long-term, sustainable employment growth.

(Word count: 345)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

The question of how governments should create jobs is an important one. Some people think trade policies are the best way to do this, while others believe other things are more important. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support using trade policies to create jobs say that it can help in several ways. First, by making trade agreements with other countries, a government can help local companies sell more products abroad. This can lead to more jobs as these companies grow. Also, trade policies can attract foreign companies to invest in the country, which can create new jobs. For example, some countries have created special economic zones with good trade conditions to attract businesses.

However, others argue that different factors are more important for job creation. They say that education and training are crucial because they prepare people for work. Also, they believe that supporting small businesses and encouraging innovation can create more jobs in the long run. These people think that focusing only on trade might not be enough to solve unemployment problems.

In my opinion, both views have some truth. Trade policies can definitely help create jobs, especially in industries that rely on exports. But I also think that other factors, like education and supporting local businesses, are very important. A government should try to do both: make good trade policies and invest in other areas that can help create jobs.

To conclude, while trade policies can be useful for job creation, they shouldn’t be the only thing governments focus on. A balanced approach that includes trade policies along with other strategies like improving education and supporting innovation is probably the best way to create jobs and help the economy grow.

(Word count: 292)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. This structure is crucial for achieving a high band score.

2. Addressing the Task: The Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced analysis of the topic, while the Band 6-7 essay covers the basics. Both essays address all parts of the question, which is essential.

3. Language Use: The Band 8-9 essay uses more sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

4. Examples: The Band 8-9 essay provides specific examples (Singapore, Germany) to support its points, adding depth to the argument. The Band 6-7 essay uses more general examples.

5. Cohesion and Coherence: Both essays use appropriate linking words and phrases to ensure a logical flow of ideas. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates this more skillfully.

Vocabulary to Remember

1. Trade barriers (noun) /treɪd ˈbæriəz/ – Restrictions on international trade, such as tariffs or quotas
2. Export-oriented (adjective) /ˈekspɔːrt ˈɔːrientid/ – Focused on producing goods for sale in other countries
3. Foreign investment (noun) /ˈfɒrən ɪnˈvestmənt/ – The purchase of assets in one country by individuals or companies from another country
4. Vocational training (noun) /vəʊˈkeɪʃənl ˈtreɪnɪŋ/ – Education that prepares people for specific trades or crafts
5. Economic development (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The process by which a nation improves the economic, political, and social well-being of its people
6. Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
7. Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole
8. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
9. Leverage (verb) /ˈliːvərɪdʒ/ – Use (something) to maximum advantage
10. Economic zones (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk zəʊnz/ – Designated areas in countries with special economic regulations different from other areas in the same country

In conclusion, the Role Of Trade Policy In Job Creation is a complex topic that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. When writing about this subject in IELTS Task 2, remember to address all parts of the question, use relevant examples, and demonstrate a good command of vocabulary and grammar. Practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the impact of global trade on local economies or the effects of international trade agreements, to improve your skills. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.