The topic of comparing the societal benefits of studying business versus history is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this subject has appeared multiple times and is likely to continue being relevant in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question that encapsulates this theme:
Some people think that studying business and finance is more beneficial for the society than studying history. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks you to compare the societal benefits of studying business and finance versus history. The key aspects to consider are:
- The perceived benefits of studying business and finance
- The potential advantages of studying history
- The impact of both fields on society
- Your personal stance on the issue
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
While some argue that studying business and finance offers more tangible benefits to society than studying history, I firmly believe that both disciplines are equally crucial for a well-rounded and prosperous society.
Admittedly, business and finance studies provide immediate and visible economic advantages. Graduates in these fields often contribute directly to economic growth, creating jobs and driving innovation in various sectors. Their expertise in financial management, market analysis, and strategic planning can lead to more efficient businesses and stronger economies. Moreover, in our increasingly globalized world, understanding international trade and finance is essential for nations to remain competitive.
However, the importance of studying history should not be underestimated. History provides invaluable insights into human behavior, societal patterns, and the consequences of past decisions. This knowledge is crucial for informed decision-making in all areas of society, including business and politics. Understanding historical contexts helps prevent the repetition of past mistakes and fosters critical thinking skills that are applicable across all professions. Furthermore, history preserves cultural heritage and promotes social cohesion by providing a shared narrative and identity.
The synergy between business and history studies can lead to more holistic solutions to societal challenges. For instance, business leaders with a strong grasp of history are better equipped to navigate complex geopolitical landscapes and make ethical decisions that consider long-term societal impacts. Similarly, historians with business acumen can more effectively communicate the relevance of historical knowledge in contemporary contexts, bridging the gap between academia and practical application.
In conclusion, while business and finance studies offer clear economic benefits, the study of history provides equally important societal advantages. A balanced approach that values both disciplines is essential for creating a well-informed, culturally rich, and economically prosperous society. The ideal scenario is one where these fields complement each other, fostering a generation of leaders who can drive economic growth while learning from the past to build a better future.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, many people believe that studying business and finance is more useful for society than studying history. While I understand this view, I partly disagree and think both subjects are important for different reasons.
On one hand, business and finance studies have clear benefits for society. These subjects help create jobs and economic growth. People who study business can start companies, manage money well, and help the economy grow. This is important because a strong economy means better lives for many people. Also, in our global world, understanding business helps countries work together and trade.
However, history is also very important for society. Learning about the past helps us understand the present and plan for the future. History teaches us about mistakes made in the past so we can avoid them. It also helps us appreciate different cultures and understand why things are the way they are today. This knowledge is useful in many jobs, not just for historians.
I think both subjects can work together to help society. Business people who know history can make better decisions that consider long-term effects on society. Historians who understand business can explain why historical knowledge is important for modern problems.
In conclusion, while business and finance are important for economic reasons, history is equally valuable for understanding our world. The best situation is when people study both subjects, as this creates a society that is both economically strong and culturally aware. We need people with knowledge in both areas to solve complex problems and create a better future.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people say studying business and finance is better for society than studying history. I think both are important but in different ways.
Business and finance are good because they help make money and jobs. People who study business can start companies and help the economy grow. This is important because when the economy is good, people have better lives. Also, business helps countries trade with each other.
But history is also important. When we study history, we learn about the past and this helps us today. We can learn from old mistakes and understand why things happen. History also teaches us about different cultures and helps us respect them.
I think both subjects can help each other. Business people who know history can make better choices. Historians who know about business can explain why history is useful today.
In conclusion, business and finance help the economy, but history helps us understand the world. It’s good to study both because then we can have a society that has money and also understands its past. We need both to solve problems and make a better future.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position
- Presents a well-developed response with relevant, extended and supported ideas
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Presents a clear progression throughout with well-organized paragraphs
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents relevant main ideas but some may be inadequately developed/unclear
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary with some errors in word choice
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms with some errors
- Arranges information coherently with clear overall progression
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary; errors may cause strain for the reader
- Uses only a limited range of structures with some accuracy
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Tangible benefits (noun phrase) – /ˈtændʒəbl ˈbenɪfɪts/ – concrete or measurable advantages
- Prosperous (adjective) – /ˈprɒspərəs/ – successful and flourishing
- Globalized (adjective) – /ˈɡləʊbəlaɪzd/ – developed connections or influence across the world
- Invaluable (adjective) – /ɪnˈvæljuəbl/ – extremely useful or indispensable
- Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – interaction of elements that produces a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects
- Holistic (adjective) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
- Geopolitical (adjective) – /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkl/ – relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors
- Acumen (noun) – /ˈækjʊmən/ – the ability to make good judgments and quick decisions
- Complement (verb) – /ˈkɒmplɪment/ – add to or enhance something in a way that improves its quality
- Cultural heritage (noun phrase) – /ˈkʌltʃərəl ˈherɪtɪdʒ/ – legacy of physical artifacts and intangible attributes inherited from past generations
In conclusion, the topic of comparing the societal benefits of studying business versus history is a common theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for similar questions, consider practicing with variations such as:
- The role of humanities vs. sciences in societal development
- The importance of preserving cultural studies in an increasingly tech-driven world
- The balance between vocational and liberal arts education in universities
Remember to analyze the question carefully, present a clear position, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Feel free to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.