The topic of a universal minimum wage is increasingly relevant in our globalized world. This essay question has appeared in various forms in past IELTS exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic due to its economic and social significance. Let’s explore this subject through sample essays targeting different band scores, along with detailed analysis to help you improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 skills.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that there should be a universal minimum wage across the world. Others argue that this would not be possible or desirable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question is asking you to:
- Discuss arguments for a universal minimum wage
- Discuss arguments against a universal minimum wage
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
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.
Universal Minimum Wage Concept
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
A global minimum wage is a contentious issue that has garnered both support and opposition from various quarters. While some argue that it could help reduce global inequality and improve living standards worldwide, others contend that it is impractical and potentially harmful to economic growth. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of a universal minimum wage argue that it could significantly reduce poverty and exploitation in developing countries. They contend that multinational corporations often take advantage of lax labor laws in these nations to pay workers meager wages, perpetuating a cycle of poverty. A global minimum wage could force these companies to provide fair compensation, thereby improving living standards for millions of workers worldwide. Additionally, it could help level the playing field for businesses, preventing a “race to the bottom” where companies continuously seek the cheapest labor markets.
On the other hand, opponents argue that a universal minimum wage is unfeasible due to vast economic differences between countries. They posit that a wage considered minimal in developed nations could be exorbitant in developing countries, potentially leading to job losses and economic instability. Furthermore, critics argue that such a policy would infringe on national sovereignty, as each country has unique economic conditions and should be free to set its own labor policies. There are also concerns that a universal minimum wage could hamper economic growth in developing nations by making them less competitive in the global market.
In my opinion, while the idea of a universal minimum wage is well-intentioned, its implementation would be extremely challenging and potentially counterproductive. I believe a more viable approach would be to strengthen international labor standards and encourage fair trade practices. This could involve setting minimum wage guidelines that are proportional to each country’s cost of living and economic conditions, rather than a one-size-fits-all global wage. Additionally, fostering economic development and education in poorer nations would be more effective in raising living standards sustainably.
In conclusion, while a universal minimum wage aims to address global inequality, its practical implementation poses significant challenges. A more nuanced approach that considers the diverse economic realities of different countries while still striving for fair labor practices would be more effective in achieving global economic justice.
(Word count: 356)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Furthermore,” “In conclusion”).
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “contentious,” “perpetuating,” “exorbitant,” “infringe on national sovereignty”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional structures).
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with explanations and examples.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The idea of having a universal minimum wage across the world is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s a good idea, while others believe it wouldn’t work well. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my own thoughts on this matter.
People who support a universal minimum wage say it could help reduce poverty in many countries. They think it would make big companies pay workers fairly, even in poor countries. This could help many people have a better life and enough money for their needs. Also, it might stop companies from moving to countries where they can pay very low wages.
However, those who are against this idea say it’s not practical because countries have very different economies. A wage that is considered low in a rich country might be very high in a poor country. This could cause problems like job losses in poorer countries. Some also say that each country should be able to decide its own rules about wages.
In my opinion, while the idea of a universal minimum wage sounds good, it would be very hard to make it work well for all countries. I think a better way would be to have rules that are fair but also consider how different each country’s situation is. For example, wages could be set based on how much things cost in each country.
To conclude, the idea of a universal minimum wage has both good and bad points. While it aims to help workers around the world, it might cause problems if not done carefully. I believe we need to find ways to improve workers’ lives that can work for all countries, not just one solution for everyone.
(Word count: 298)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., frequent use of “Also,” “However”).
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay. There’s less use of uncommon or specialized vocabulary.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures but with less variety and sophistication than the Band 8-9 essay.
Development of Ideas: Main points are present, but the explanations and examples are less detailed and nuanced.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Perpetuating (verb) /pərˈpetʃueɪtɪŋ/ – make (something) continue indefinitely
- Exorbitant (adjective) /ɪɡˈzɔːrbɪtənt/ – unreasonably high
- Infringe (verb) /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – actively break the terms of (a law, agreement, etc.)
- Sovereignty (noun) /ˈsɒvrənti/ – supreme power or authority
- Viable (adjective) /ˈvaɪəbl/ – capable of working successfully; feasible
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊntərprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having the opposite of the desired effect
- Lax (adjective) /læks/ – not sufficiently strict, severe, or careful
- Meager (adjective) /ˈmiːɡər/ – lacking in quantity or quality
Conclusion
The topic of a universal minimum wage is complex and multifaceted, making it an excellent subject for IELTS Writing Task 2. When approaching this or similar topics, remember to:
- Clearly address all parts of the question
- Provide balanced arguments for both sides
- Use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures
- Develop your ideas with explanations and examples
- State your opinion clearly
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones such as:
- The impact of globalization on wages and working conditions
- The role of governments in regulating multinational corporations
- The effectiveness of international labor standards
Remember to post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.