Universal basic income (UBI) is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years, particularly in discussions about economic equality and social welfare. This subject has appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions with increasing frequency, reflecting its relevance to contemporary global issues. Based on our analysis of past IELTS exams and current trends, we expect questions related to UBI to continue appearing in future tests. Let’s examine a sample question and explore how to approach this topic effectively.
Some people think that governments should provide a universal basic income, while others think that it is impossible to do so. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments in favor of governments providing UBI
- Discuss arguments against the feasibility of UBI
- Present their own 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 to understand how to approach this task effectively.
Band 8 Sample Essay
Universal basic income (UBI) is a contentious issue that has sparked intense debate among policymakers and economists worldwide. While some advocate for its implementation as a means to alleviate poverty and reduce inequality, others argue that it is an unfeasible and potentially detrimental policy. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on the matter.
Proponents of UBI argue that it could serve as a safety net for all citizens, ensuring a minimum standard of living regardless of employment status. They contend that in an era of increasing automation and job insecurity, UBI could provide financial stability and reduce stress associated with economic uncertainty. Moreover, supporters suggest that UBI could stimulate economic growth by increasing consumer spending and encouraging entrepreneurship, as individuals would have a financial cushion to take risks and pursue innovative ideas.
UBI Benefits
On the other hand, critics argue that implementing UBI on a large scale is economically unfeasible. They point out that the cost of providing a basic income to every citizen would be astronomically high, potentially leading to unsustainable government debt or necessitating significant tax increases. Furthermore, opponents worry that UBI could disincentivize work, leading to reduced productivity and a shrinking labor force. They argue that this could have far-reaching negative consequences for economic growth and social cohesion.
UBI Challenges
In my opinion, while the concept of UBI is appealing in theory, its large-scale implementation faces significant practical challenges. The financial burden on governments and potential negative effects on work incentives cannot be ignored. However, I believe that targeted assistance programs and gradual pilot schemes could be more viable alternatives to address income inequality and economic insecurity. These approaches would allow policymakers to assess the impact of basic income policies without committing to a full-scale UBI system.
In conclusion, the debate surrounding UBI highlights the complex nature of addressing poverty and economic inequality in modern societies. While universal basic income presents potential benefits, the challenges of implementation cannot be overlooked. A balanced approach that combines elements of income support with incentives for work and education may offer a more realistic path forward.
(Word count: 346)
Band 8 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates several characteristics of a Band 8 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “Furthermore”).
- Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “contentious,” “alleviate,” “unfeasible,” “disincentivize”).
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with few errors (e.g., “While some advocate for its implementation as a means to alleviate poverty and reduce inequality, others argue that it is an unfeasible and potentially detrimental policy.”).
- Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Universal basic income is a topic that many people are talking about these days. Some think it’s a good idea for governments to give everyone a basic income, but others say it’s not possible. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support universal basic income say it can help reduce poverty. They think that if everyone gets a basic amount of money, it will make sure no one is extremely poor. Also, they argue that it can help people who lose their jobs because of new technology. With a basic income, people might feel more secure and be able to try new things or start businesses.
Impact of UBI on Individuals
However, there are also arguments against universal basic income. The main problem is that it would cost a lot of money. Governments would need to find a way to pay for it, which might mean higher taxes. Some people worry that if everyone gets money for free, they might not want to work anymore. This could be bad for the economy.
UBI and Government Budget
In my opinion, while universal basic income sounds good, it might be too difficult to make it work in real life. The cost would be very high, and it’s hard to know how it would affect people’s motivation to work. I think governments should focus on improving existing welfare systems and creating more job opportunities instead.
To conclude, universal basic income is a complex issue with both advantages and disadvantages. While it could help reduce poverty, the practical challenges of implementing it are significant. I believe that other approaches to addressing poverty and unemployment might be more realistic and effective.
(Word count: 284)
Band 6-7 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the discussion of each view and the writer’s opinion could be more developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8 essay.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the Band 8 essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some minor errors.
- Development of Ideas: Main points are presented, but they could be elaborated on further with more specific examples or explanations.
Key Vocabulary
- Universal basic income (UBI) (noun) – A government program in which every adult citizen receives a set amount of money regularly
/ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ - Feasible (adjective) – Possible and practical to do easily or conveniently
/ˈfiːzəbl/ - Alleviate (verb) – To make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe
/əˈliːvieɪt/ - Disincentivize (verb) – To discourage or deter (someone) from doing something
/ˌdɪsɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ - Entrepreneurship (noun) – The activity of setting up a business or businesses, taking on financial risks in the hope of profit
/ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ - Cohesion (noun) – The action or fact of forming a united whole
/kəʊˈhiːʒn/ - Automation (noun) – The use of largely automatic equipment in a system of manufacturing or other production process
/ˌɔːtəˈmeɪʃn/ - Welfare system (noun) – A system of government programs that provide assistance to citizens in need
/ˈwelfeə ˈsɪstəm/ - Economic inequality (noun) – The unequal distribution of income and opportunity between different groups in society
/ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˌɪnɪˈkwɒləti/ - Pilot scheme (noun) – A small-scale preliminary study conducted to evaluate feasibility, time, cost, adverse events, and improve upon the study design prior to performance of a full-scale research project
/ˈpaɪlət skiːm/
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 and social debates. To prepare for such questions, practice writing essays that discuss both the potential benefits and challenges of implementing UBI, and develop a well-reasoned personal opinion on the matter.
Some potential future questions on this topic might include:
- To what extent do you agree or disagree that universal basic income could solve issues of poverty and unemployment?
- Some people believe that universal basic income will lead to a more equal society, while others think it will create more problems than it solves. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
- In the face of increasing automation, some argue that universal basic income is necessary. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
We encourage you to practice writing essays on these topics and share your work in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the test.
To learn more about related topics, you may find these articles helpful:
- Should Universal Healthcare Be a Basic Human Right?
- The Importance of Universal Healthcare for Promoting Social Equity
- Universal Basic Income Benefits
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of perspectives on these complex issues will help you develop the critical thinking and writing skills necessary to excel in IELTS Writing Task 2.
