In recent years, the topic of international cooperation to address global poverty has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject not only tests candidates’ writing skills but also their understanding of complex global issues. Let’s explore this topic in depth, providing sample essays for different band scores to help you prepare effectively for your IELTS exam.
Analyzing the Task
One of the most common question types on this topic is:
Some people believe that rich countries should take more responsibility for helping poorer nations develop. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question requires you to discuss the role of wealthy nations in assisting developing countries. It’s crucial to understand the key elements:
- The main topic is international aid and development.
- You need to express your opinion on the level of responsibility rich countries should take.
- You should provide reasons and examples to support your view.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
In today’s interconnected world, the disparity between rich and poor nations has become increasingly apparent. While some argue that wealthy countries should bear a greater responsibility in aiding the development of poorer nations, I strongly agree with this viewpoint for several compelling reasons.
Firstly, rich countries often have the resources and expertise necessary to make a significant impact on global poverty. Their advanced economies and technological capabilities can be leveraged to provide not just financial aid, but also knowledge transfer and capacity building in crucial areas such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure development. For instance, countries like the United States and Germany have successfully implemented programs that train healthcare professionals from developing nations, thereby improving medical care in those countries.
Secondly, addressing global poverty is not just a moral imperative but also a matter of enlightened self-interest for wealthy nations. In an increasingly globalized world, the economic stability and growth of developing countries can lead to new markets and investment opportunities for rich nations. Moreover, reducing poverty can help mitigate global issues such as illegal migration, terrorism, and the spread of diseases, which ultimately affect all countries, rich or poor.
However, it is essential to note that increased responsibility should not mean unilateral action or a paternalistic approach. Effective aid requires collaboration and partnership between donor and recipient countries. Rich nations should work alongside poorer countries to develop sustainable solutions that respect local cultures and promote self-reliance. The success of microfinance initiatives in Bangladesh, supported by international organizations, is a prime example of how collaborative efforts can yield significant results in poverty reduction.
In conclusion, while the primary responsibility for a nation’s development lies with its own government and people, wealthy countries have both the means and the incentive to play a crucial role in addressing global poverty. By taking on greater responsibility in a collaborative and respectful manner, rich nations can contribute significantly to creating a more equitable and stable world for all.
(Word count: 309)
Band 6-7 Essay
In today’s world, the gap between rich and poor countries is a big problem. Many people think that wealthy nations should do more to help poor countries develop. I agree with this idea to some extent, but I also think there are some problems with it.
On one hand, rich countries have more money and knowledge that they can share with poor countries. They can give money to build schools and hospitals, which can help people in poor countries have better lives. For example, some rich countries have sent doctors to Africa to help fight diseases like malaria. This kind of help can make a big difference.
Also, when rich countries help poor countries, it can be good for everyone. If poor countries develop, they can buy more things from rich countries, which is good for business. It can also stop problems like too many people trying to move to rich countries for work.
However, there are some problems with rich countries helping too much. Sometimes, poor countries might become too dependent on help from others and not learn to solve their own problems. Also, the help might not always go to the right places because of corruption in some poor countries.
In conclusion, I think rich countries should help poor countries, but they need to be careful about how they do it. They should work together with poor countries to find the best ways to help, instead of just giving money. This way, poor countries can learn to develop on their own in the future.
(Word count: 252)
Band 5-6 Essay
I think rich countries should help poor countries more. There are many reasons for this.
First, rich countries have more money. They can give some of this money to poor countries to build things like schools and hospitals. This can help people in poor countries have better lives.
Second, when rich countries help poor countries, it can be good for everyone. If poor countries get richer, they can buy more things from rich countries. This is good for business in rich countries.
But there are also some problems. Sometimes, the help doesn’t go to the right people in poor countries. Some people might take the money for themselves. This is not good.
Also, if rich countries help too much, poor countries might not learn to solve their own problems. They might always wait for help instead of trying to fix things themselves.
In conclusion, I think rich countries should help poor countries, but they need to be careful. They should make sure the help goes to the right people and places. They should also teach poor countries how to solve their own problems.
(Word count: 168)
International collaboration to address global poverty
Analyzing the Essays
Band 8-9 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphing is well-managed, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. The essay is virtually error-free.
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay shows good writing skills but with some limitations:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, although some parts are more fully covered than others. The position is clear but supporting ideas may lack focus.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but some paragraphs may not be well-linked. Cohesive devices are used but may be overused or underused.
- Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used for the task. There may be some errors in word choice, but they do not impede communication.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they rarely reduce communication.
Band 5-6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates basic writing skills:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task only partially. The format may be inappropriate in places, and ideas may not be fully developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The overall progression of ideas is visible, but not always clear. Paragraphing may be inadequate.
- Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, with some repetition. Word choice errors may cause some difficulty for the reader.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A limited range of structures is used. Errors are frequent and may cause some difficulty for the reader.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Disparity (noun) – /dɪˈspærəti/ – a great difference
- Imperative (noun) – /ɪmˈperətɪv/ – an essential or urgent thing
- Enlightened self-interest (phrase) – /ɪnˈlaɪtənd self ˈɪntrəst/ – acting to further the interests of others ultimately serves one’s own self-interest
- Unilateral (adjective) – /ˌjuːnɪˈlætərəl/ – performed by or affecting only one person, group, or country
- Paternalistic (adjective) – /pəˌtɜːrnəˈlɪstɪk/ – relating to or characterized by the restriction of the freedom and responsibilities of subordinates or dependents in their supposed interest
- Microfinance (noun) – /ˈmaɪkrəʊfaɪnæns/ – a type of banking service provided to unemployed or low-income individuals or groups
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Corruption (noun) – /kəˈrʌpʃn/ – dishonest or fraudulent conduct by those in power
- Dependency (noun) – /dɪˈpendənsi/ – the state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else
- Collaborative (adjective) – /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – involving two or more parties working together
Conclusion
The topic of international collaboration to address global poverty is a complex and nuanced one that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in this task, it’s crucial to understand the various aspects of the issue and be able to articulate your thoughts clearly and coherently.
As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of technology in alleviating poverty
- The effectiveness of international aid programs
- The relationship between education and poverty reduction
- The impact of climate change on global poverty
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about having good ideas, but also about presenting them in a well-structured, coherent manner with appropriate vocabulary and grammar. Practice writing essays on these topics and don’t hesitate to share your work in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on related topics, you might find our articles on the importance of clean energy for economic growth and how technology impacts social justice helpful in broadening your understanding of global issues often discussed in IELTS tasks.
