The four-day workweek has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Understanding this topic is crucial as it reflects current workplace trends and discussions about work-life balance. Recent examination statistics show that questions about flexible working arrangements, including should companies implement flexible working hours, have appeared in approximately 15% of Task 2 questions since 2020.
Modern office workers discussing four-day workweek benefits
Analysis of Common Question Types
The most frequently encountered question type regarding this topic is:
Some people believe that employees should work four days per week instead of five. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This question requires candidates to express and support their position on reducing the traditional workweek. Let’s examine advantages and disadvantages of working a four-day week through several model essays at different band scores.
Band 8.5 Model Answer
In recent years, the concept of a four-day workweek has gained significant traction, and I strongly agree that this arrangement should be widely implemented due to its numerous benefits for both employees and organizations.
Firstly, reducing the workweek to four days can significantly enhance employee productivity and well-being. When workers have three consecutive days off, they return to work more refreshed and motivated, leading to increased focus and efficiency during working hours. For instance, Microsoft Japan reported a remarkable 40% increase in productivity after implementing a four-day workweek trial, demonstrating that fewer working days don’t necessarily equate to reduced output.
Moreover, a shortened workweek can substantially improve work-life balance and mental health. Extra leisure time allows employees to pursue personal interests, spend more time with family, and engage in activities that promote physical and mental wellness. This improved balance naturally leads to reduced stress levels and lower rates of burnout, ultimately benefiting both employees and employers through decreased healthcare costs and absenteeism.
Professional achieving work-life balance with four-day schedule
Furthermore, implementing a four-day workweek can contribute to environmental sustainability and operational cost reduction. Fewer commuting days mean reduced carbon emissions and lower office utility expenses. Companies like benefits of remote work for companies have demonstrated that this model can lead to significant cost savings while maintaining or even improving productivity levels.
However, it’s essential to acknowledge that transitioning to a four-day workweek requires careful planning and may not suit all industries or organizations. Healthcare, emergency services, and customer-facing businesses might need to implement modified versions of this model to ensure continuous service delivery.
In conclusion, while the shift to a four-day workweek presents certain challenges, its benefits to employee well-being, productivity, and environmental sustainability make it a compelling option for modern workplaces. Organizations should seriously consider should companies reduce employee working hours as part of their strategic planning for the future.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- traction (n) /ˈtrækʃən/ – growing acceptance
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- burnout (n) /ˈbɜːnaʊt/ – physical or mental collapse caused by overwork
- absenteeism (n) /ˌæbsənˈtiːɪzəm/ – the practice of regularly staying away from work
- operational (adj) /ˌɒpəˈreɪʃənl/ – relating to the running of a business
- sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain level
- compelling (adj) /kəmˈpelɪŋ/ – convincing and forceful
- strategic (adj) /strəˈtiːdʒɪk/ – carefully planned to achieve a specific goal
Practice Exercise
Try writing your own response to the question above, considering both advantages and disadvantages of the four-day workweek. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. For additional inspiration, explore how Four-day workweek: companies implement? in various contexts.
Remember to maintain a clear structure, use appropriate vocabulary, and support your arguments with specific examples. Good luck with your writing practice!
