The topic of mandatory retirement age is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and current societal debates, it’s likely to remain a relevant subject for future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a specific question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that it is better for individuals to plan their own careers and lives than to accept jobs given to them by the government. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analysis of the Question
This question touches on the broader theme of government involvement in career planning and, by extension, retirement policies. It requires candidates to consider the pros and cons of individual career planning versus government-assigned jobs, which can include mandatory retirement policies.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
In today’s rapidly evolving job market, the notion of individual career planning versus government-assigned employment is a topic of significant debate. While some argue for the stability and structure provided by government job allocation, I firmly believe that individuals should have the autonomy to plan their own careers and lives.
Firstly, personal career planning allows for greater flexibility and adaptability in an ever-changing economic landscape. As industries transform and new technologies emerge, individuals who actively manage their own career paths are better positioned to acquire relevant skills and pivot to new opportunities. For instance, a software developer who continually updates their skills based on market demands is more likely to remain employable than someone locked into a government-assigned position that may become obsolete.
Moreover, self-directed career planning fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. When people have the freedom to pursue their passions and ideas, it often leads to groundbreaking innovations and the creation of new industries. The tech giants of Silicon Valley, for example, were not born out of government job assignments but from the visionary pursuits of individuals who charted their own paths.
However, it is important to acknowledge that government job allocation can provide stability and reduce unemployment rates, especially in times of economic hardship. Nevertheless, this approach may lead to a mismatch between individual talents and job requirements, potentially resulting in reduced productivity and job satisfaction.
In conclusion, while government job allocation may offer certain benefits, the advantages of individual career planning far outweigh these. By empowering people to shape their own professional journeys, we create a more dynamic, innovative, and ultimately more prosperous society. Therefore, I strongly agree that it is better for individuals to plan their own careers and lives rather than accepting pre-determined government roles.
(Word count: 289)
Individual career planning vs government-assigned jobs
Band 6-7 Essay
In today’s world, there is a debate about whether people should plan their own careers or accept jobs given by the government. In my opinion, I think it’s better for individuals to plan their own careers and lives.
One reason for this is that people know their own skills and interests best. When someone chooses their own job, they are more likely to be happy and do well in it. For example, if someone loves computers, they might choose to become a programmer and be very successful. But if the government gave them a job as a farmer, they might not be happy or good at it.
Another point is that planning your own career gives you more freedom. You can change jobs if you want to try something new or if your first choice doesn’t work out. This is important because the job market is always changing, and people need to be able to adapt.
However, some people might say that government jobs are more stable and secure. This is true, but I think the benefits of choosing your own path are more important. When people follow their passions, they often work harder and create new ideas that can help society.
In conclusion, while government jobs can offer stability, I believe that the advantages of planning your own career are greater. It allows people to use their talents better and be more satisfied with their work. This can lead to a more productive and innovative society.
(Word count: 250)
Band 5-6 Essay
In some countries, the government gives jobs to people. But some people think it’s better to plan their own careers. I agree that people should plan their own careers and lives.
First, when people choose their own jobs, they can do what they like. If someone likes to draw, they can be an artist. If they like numbers, they can be an accountant. This makes people happier in their work.
Also, planning your own career means you can change if you want. Maybe you start as a teacher but later want to be a business owner. You can do this if you plan your own career. But with a government job, it might be hard to change.
But government jobs can be good too. They are often safe and people don’t lose them easily. This is good for some people who want a steady job.
In the end, I think it’s better for people to plan their own careers. They can follow their dreams and be happier. This is good for people and for the country too.
(Word count: 167)
Advantages of personal career planning
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position throughout. Presents fully extended and well-developed ideas.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Skillfully manages paragraphing. Uses a wide range of cohesive devices appropriately.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a wide range of vocabulary naturally and flexibly. Rare minor errors occur only as ‘slips’.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression. Uses cohesive devices effectively, but cohesion within and/or between sentences may be faulty or mechanical.
- Lexical Resource: Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task. Attempts to use less common vocabulary but with some inaccuracy.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms. Makes some errors in grammar and punctuation but they rarely reduce communication.
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses the task only partially. The format may be inappropriate in places.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression. Uses basic cohesive devices.
- Lexical Resource: Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task. May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Uses only a limited range of structures. Attempts complex sentences but these tend to be less accurate than simple sentences.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/: The right or condition of self-government.
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Adaptability (noun) /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/: The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
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Obsolete (adjective) /ˈɒbsəliːt/: No longer in use or no longer useful.
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Entrepreneurship (noun) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/: The activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit.
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Mismatch (noun) /ˈmɪsmætʃ/: A failure to correspond or match; a discrepancy.
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Groundbreaking (adjective) /ˈɡraʊndbreɪkɪŋ/: Innovative; pioneering.
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Pivot (verb) /ˈpɪvət/: To change direction or emphasis.
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Empowering (adjective) /ɪmˈpaʊərɪŋ/: Giving someone the authority or power to do something.
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Dynamic (adjective) /daɪˈnæmɪk/: Characterized by constant change, activity, or progress.
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Prosperity (noun) /prɒˈsperəti/: The state of being successful, especially in financial terms.
In conclusion, the topic of mandatory retirement age and government involvement in career planning remains a relevant and thought-provoking subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you prepare for your exam, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of government in job creation and employment policies
- Balancing work-life and retirement in an aging society
- The impact of technological advancements on traditional career paths
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide relevant examples to support your arguments. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and consider sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
