IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Governments Implement a Universal Basic Income? (Essay Samples for Band 6-7 and 8-9)

Universal Basic Income (UBI) has become a hot topic in recent years, especially in the context of economic inequality and technological advancements. This subject has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, reflecting its relevance in contemporary socio-economic discussions. Based on past trends and current global debates, it’s likely that questions related to UBI will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to approach this topic effectively.

Universal Basic Income concept

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following question:

Some people think that governments should provide a universal basic income to all citizens, regardless of their employment status. Others argue that this would be too expensive and could discourage people from working. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a balanced approach to the UBI debate, asking candidates to discuss both sides of the argument and provide their personal viewpoint. The key aspects to address are:

1. The potential benefits of UBI
2. The concerns about its implementation, particularly cost and work incentives
3. Your own opinion on whether governments should implement UBI

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

In recent years, the concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) has gained traction as a potential solution to economic inequality and job displacement due to automation. While proponents argue that UBI could provide a safety net for all citizens, critics contend that it would be financially unsustainable and potentially discourage work. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view on this contentious issue.

Advocates of UBI argue that it could address several pressing social issues. Firstly, a guaranteed income could alleviate poverty and reduce income inequality, providing a financial foundation for all citizens regardless of their circumstances. Secondly, UBI could offer a buffer against job losses due to technological advancements, allowing individuals to retrain or pursue entrepreneurial ventures without fear of destitution. Moreover, proponents suggest that UBI could simplify welfare systems, reducing bureaucracy and associated costs.

On the other hand, critics raise valid concerns about the implementation of UBI. The primary argument against it is its enormous cost, which could strain government budgets and potentially lead to higher taxes or reduced spending in other crucial areas such as healthcare or education. Additionally, there are fears that a guaranteed income might disincentivize work, particularly for low-wage jobs, potentially leading to labor shortages in certain sectors. Critics also argue that UBI could lead to inflation, as increased consumer spending power might drive up prices.

In my opinion, while UBI presents an intriguing solution to some societal challenges, its implementation would require careful consideration and gradual introduction. I believe that a modified version of UBI, such as a negative income tax or targeted basic income for specific groups (e.g., young adults or the elderly), could be more feasible and address some of the criticisms. Such an approach could provide financial security for vulnerable populations while maintaining work incentives and fiscal responsibility.

In conclusion, the debate over Universal Basic Income reflects the complex challenges facing modern societies. While UBI offers potential benefits in terms of poverty reduction and economic security, concerns about its cost and impact on work ethic cannot be ignored. A balanced approach, potentially involving targeted or modified forms of basic income, may offer a more realistic path forward in addressing economic inequality without overburdening government resources.

(Word count: 349)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

Universal Basic Income (UBI) is a topic that many people are talking about these days. Some think it’s a good idea for governments to give money to all citizens, no matter if they have a job or not. Others say it would cost too much and might make people not want to work. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who support UBI say it can help solve some big problems. First, it could help reduce poverty because everyone would have some money to live on. Second, it could help people who lose their jobs because of new technology. They would have some money while they learn new skills or start a business. Also, UBI might make the welfare system easier and save money on administration.

However, there are also reasons why some people don’t like the idea of UBI. The biggest problem is that it would cost a lot of money. Governments might have to raise taxes or spend less on other important things like schools or hospitals. Another worry is that if people get free money, they might not want to work, especially in low-paying jobs. Some people also think that UBI could make things more expensive because people would have more money to spend.

In my opinion, I think UBI is an interesting idea, but it might be hard to make it work right now. Maybe we could try giving basic income to some groups of people first, like young adults or old people, to see how it works. This way, we could help people who need it most without spending too much money or causing big changes too quickly.

To sum up, UBI has both good and bad points. It could help reduce poverty and give people more security, but it’s also very expensive and might cause some problems. I think we need to be careful and test it slowly before deciding if it’s right for everyone.

(Word count: 310)

Key Points to Note When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing different viewpoints, and a conclusion with the writer’s opinion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced conclusion.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “gained traction,” “contentious issue,” “alleviate poverty”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses mostly simple and compound sentences.

4. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed and thoughtful analysis.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of linking words and phrases, creating a smoother flow of ideas.

Important Vocabulary to Remember

1. Universal Basic Income (UBI) (noun) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ – a government program providing all citizens with a fixed amount of money regularly

2. Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/ – to make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe

3. Destitution (noun) /ˌdestɪˈtjuːʃn/ – extreme poverty

4. Bureaucracy (noun) /bjʊəˈrɒkrəsi/ – a system of government with many complicated rules and processes

5. Disincentivize (verb) /ˌdɪsɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – to discourage or prevent an action by removing its advantages

6. Inflation (noun) /ɪnˈfleɪʃn/ – a general increase in prices and fall in the purchasing value of money

7. Feasible (adjective) /ˈfiːzəbl/ – possible to do easily or conveniently

8. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial

9. Overburdening (verb) /ˌəʊvəˈbɜːdn/ – to load with too great a burden

10. Gradual (adjective) /ˈɡrædʒuəl/ – taking place or progressing slowly or by degrees

In conclusion, the topic of Universal Basic Income is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions due to its ongoing significance in global economic discussions. When approaching this topic, it’s crucial to consider multiple perspectives and provide a balanced argument. Practice writing essays on related topics such as wealth distribution, government welfare programs, or the impact of automation on employment to enhance your skills in discussing this complex issue.

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam more effectively.