The topic of government intervention in free markets is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and the current global economic climate, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question related to this topic that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that governments should intervene in the economy to protect jobs and industries, while others think that the free market should operate without interference. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government intervention in the economy
- Discuss arguments for allowing free markets to operate without interference
- Provide their own opinion on the issue
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate over government intervention in the economy versus free market principles has been ongoing for decades. While some argue that governments should protect jobs and industries, others believe in the power of unregulated markets. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government intervention argue that it is necessary to safeguard employment and vital industries. They contend that without regulation, large corporations may exploit workers or engage in practices that harm the environment. Furthermore, government support can help nascent industries grow and compete globally, ultimately benefiting the national economy. For instance, many countries provide subsidies to renewable energy companies to promote sustainable development and create green jobs.
On the other hand, free market advocates assert that minimal government interference allows for more efficient resource allocation and fosters innovation. They argue that market forces naturally lead to the most competitive and productive outcomes, as businesses must adapt or fail. This Darwinian approach, they claim, results in stronger companies and a more robust economy overall. The tech industry in Silicon Valley is often cited as an example of how a relatively unregulated market can drive rapid innovation and economic growth.
In my opinion, a balanced approach is most beneficial. While I believe in the power of free markets to drive innovation and efficiency, I also recognize the need for some government oversight to prevent exploitation and protect public interests. Governments should focus on creating a level playing field through anti-trust regulations and consumer protection laws, rather than directly intervening in specific industries. Additionally, they should invest in education and infrastructure to equip citizens with the skills needed to thrive in a dynamic economy.
In conclusion, while both government intervention and free market principles have their merits, a nuanced approach that combines elements of both is likely to yield the best results. By striking a balance between regulation and freedom, economies can foster growth while ensuring fair practices and protecting vulnerable sectors of society.
(Word count: 309)
Balancing government intervention and free market principles
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific point. Linking words and phrases are used effectively to guide the reader through the argument.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex terms like “nascent industries,” “Darwinian approach,” and “anti-trust regulations” demonstrate a sophisticated command of language.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay employs a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy. For example, “While I believe in the power of free markets to drive innovation and efficiency, I also recognize the need for some government oversight to prevent exploitation and protect public interests.”
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows depth of analysis by considering multiple aspects of the issue and providing specific examples to support arguments.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should intervene in the economy or let the free market operate without interference is a complex one. There are arguments on both sides, and I will discuss these before giving my own opinion.
Those who support government intervention say it is necessary to protect jobs and industries. They believe that without government help, some important industries might fail, leading to unemployment. For example, during economic crises, governments often provide financial support to banks or car manufacturers to prevent job losses. They also argue that some regulation is needed to stop big companies from becoming too powerful and exploiting workers or consumers.
On the other hand, supporters of the free market say that government interference can do more harm than good. They argue that when markets are left alone, they become more efficient and innovative. They believe that competition between companies leads to better products and lower prices for consumers. They also say that government intervention can lead to corruption and inefficiency, as politicians might make decisions based on political factors rather than economic ones.
In my opinion, some government intervention is necessary, but it should be limited. I think the free market is generally good at creating economic growth and innovation. However, I also believe that governments have a role to play in protecting workers’ rights, ensuring fair competition, and safeguarding the environment. The key is to find the right balance between freedom and regulation.
To conclude, while both government intervention and free markets have their advantages, I believe a mixed approach is best. Governments should provide a framework of rules to ensure fair play, but should generally allow markets to operate freely within these rules.
(Word count: 274)
Government intervention in economic policy
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but lacks some of the sophistication of the higher band essay:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the discussion and examples are less developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the transitions between ideas could be smoother.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate and generally accurate, but lacks the range and sophistication of the higher band essay. Terms like “economic crises,” “financial support,” and “competition” are used correctly but are more common.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good accuracy. However, it doesn’t demonstrate the same level of syntactic variety as the Band 8-9 essay.
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows some analysis of the issue, but the arguments and examples are more general and less nuanced compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action or process of intervening
- Regulate (verb) /ˈreɡjuleɪt/ – to control or supervise something by means of rules and regulations
- Subsidize (verb) /ˈsʌbsɪdaɪz/ – to support financially
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃn/ – a new method, idea, product, etc.
- Exploitation (noun) /ˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/ – the action of treating someone unfairly in order to benefit from their work
- Efficiency (noun) /ɪˈfɪʃnsi/ – the state or quality of being efficient
- Robust (adjective) /rəʊˈbʌst/ – strong and healthy; vigorous
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Nascent (adjective) /ˈnæsnt/ – just coming into existence and beginning to display signs of future potential
- Anti-trust (adjective) /ˌæntiˈtrʌst/ – of or relating to legislation preventing or controlling trusts or other monopolies
In conclusion, the topic of government intervention in free markets is a complex and nuanced issue that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. To excel in writing about this topic, it’s crucial to present balanced arguments, provide specific examples, and demonstrate a sophisticated understanding of economic principles.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of government in regulating emerging technologies like cryptocurrency
- Government regulation of the gig economy to protect workers’ rights
- The impact of government intervention in food prices to combat inflation
We encourage you to write your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
