IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering Essays on Universal Basic Income (UBI) with Sample Answers for Different Band Scores

Universal Basic Income (UBI) has become a hot topic in recent years, and it’s increasingly appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. This essay topic combines elements of economics, social policy, and government responsibility, making it a complex and thought-provoking subject for IELTS candidates. In this article, we’ll explore a sample question on UBI, provide essay examples for different band scores, and offer in-depth analysis to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Universal Basic Income

Analyzing the Question

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on Universal Basic Income:

Some people believe that governments should implement a universal basic income to ensure all citizens have a minimum standard of living. Others argue that this would be too expensive and discourage people from working. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss arguments in favor of implementing UBI
2. Discuss arguments against implementing UBI
3. Provide your own opinion on the issue

Remember to address all parts of the question in your essay to achieve a high score in Task Achievement.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

Here’s a high-scoring sample essay that effectively addresses the question:

The concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) has gained traction in recent years as a potential solution to poverty and income inequality. While some advocate for its implementation, others express concerns about its feasibility and potential consequences. This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that, despite its challenges, UBI could be a valuable tool for addressing societal issues if carefully implemented.

Proponents of UBI argue that it would provide a safety net for all citizens, ensuring a minimum standard of living. This could potentially reduce poverty, alleviate financial stress, and improve overall well-being in society. Additionally, UBI could give individuals more freedom to pursue education, start businesses, or engage in creative endeavors without the constant pressure of meeting basic needs. For example, a struggling artist might be able to dedicate more time to their craft, potentially contributing to cultural enrichment.

On the other hand, critics contend that implementing UBI would be prohibitively expensive for governments, potentially leading to increased taxes or budget deficits. There are also concerns that a guaranteed income might discourage people from seeking employment, potentially reducing productivity and economic growth. Some argue that this could create a culture of dependency, where individuals rely too heavily on government support rather than developing valuable skills and contributing to society.

In my opinion, while the concerns about UBI are valid, its potential benefits outweigh the risks if implemented thoughtfully. A well-designed UBI program could incorporate measures to address potential drawbacks, such as gradually reducing payments as income increases to maintain work incentives. Moreover, the positive impacts of reduced poverty and increased financial security could lead to long-term societal benefits, including improved health outcomes and reduced crime rates.

In conclusion, Universal Basic Income presents both opportunities and challenges for governments and societies. While it may require significant initial investment and careful planning to mitigate potential negative effects, UBI has the potential to create a more equitable and stable society. As income inequality continues to grow in many countries, exploring innovative solutions like UBI becomes increasingly important for ensuring the well-being of all citizens.

(Word count: 329)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “While,” “Additionally,” “On the other hand”).

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “alleviate,” “prohibitively,” “contend,” “innovative”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

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

In recent years, the idea of Universal Basic Income (UBI) has become a topic of debate among policymakers and economists. Some people think that governments should give all citizens a basic income to ensure everyone has enough money to live on. However, others believe this would be too expensive and might make people lazy. This essay will discuss both sides of the argument and give my opinion.

Those who support UBI say it would help reduce poverty and give people more financial security. If everyone received a basic income, it could help them pay for essential things like food and housing. This might lead to less stress and better health for many people. Also, UBI could give people more freedom to study or start their own businesses without worrying about how they will pay their bills.

On the other hand, critics of UBI argue that it would cost too much money for governments to implement. They worry that it might lead to higher taxes or cause the government to go into debt. Another concern is that if people receive money without working, they might become lazy and not want to find jobs. This could be bad for the economy if fewer people are working and contributing to society.

In my opinion, while UBI is an interesting idea, I think it might be too difficult to implement in practice. The cost of giving money to every citizen would be very high, and it might be hard for governments to afford it. However, I believe that governments should still look for ways to help people who are struggling financially, such as improving job training programs or providing better social services.

In conclusion, Universal Basic Income is a complex issue with both potential benefits and drawbacks. While it could help reduce poverty and provide more financial security, the high cost and potential negative effects on work motivation are significant concerns. Governments should carefully consider all aspects of UBI before deciding whether to implement such a program.

(Word count: 309)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, presenting both views and offering a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with appropriate paragraphing, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is generally appropriate, but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay (e.g., “lazy” instead of “discourage people from working”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control, though there is less variety in structures compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly, but with less depth and sophistication than in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary for UBI Essays

Here are some important vocabulary items related to Universal Basic Income that you can use in your IELTS essays:

1. Universal Basic Income (UBI) (noun) /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/: A government program in which every citizen regularly receives an unconditional sum of money.

2. Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/: To put a plan or system into action.

3. Feasibility (noun) /ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/: The state of being possible or achievable.

4. Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/: To make a problem or suffering less severe.

5. Prohibitively (adverb) /prəˈhɪbɪtɪvli/: To an extent that prevents something from happening or being done.

6. Income inequality (noun) /ˈɪnkʌm ˌɪnɪˈkwɒləti/: The extent to which income is distributed unevenly among a population.

7. Safety net (noun) /ˈseɪfti net/: A system or arrangement that provides protection against hardship or failure.

8. Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/: Something that motivates or encourages someone to do something.

9. Dependency (noun) /dɪˈpendənsi/: The state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else.

10. Innovative (adjective) /ˈɪnəvətɪv/: Featuring new methods or ideas; original and creative in thinking.

Conclusion

Universal Basic Income is a complex and increasingly relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments for and against UBI, and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to write a well-structured, coherent response that demonstrates your language skills and critical thinking abilities.

To further enhance your IELTS Writing skills, consider practicing with these related topics:

• Should governments provide free healthcare for all citizens?
• Is it the government’s responsibility to ensure full employment?
• Should higher education be free for all students?

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice and analysis. Try writing your own essay on the UBI topic and share it in the comments below for feedback. This active practice will help you refine your skills and boost your confidence for the actual test.

For more IELTS Writing Task 2 tips and sample essays, check out our articles on healthcare policies and other aspects of Universal Basic Income.