The gig economy and its effects on job security have become increasingly relevant topics in recent years, often appearing in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. This subject is particularly pertinent for test-takers from Vietnam, as the country experiences rapid economic changes and shifting employment landscapes. Based on past exam trends and current economic discussions, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a sample question and provide essay examples for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that the growth of the gig economy (where people have temporary jobs or do separate pieces of work, each paid separately) is a positive development, while others believe it has negative consequences for workers and society. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the positive aspects of the gig economy
- Explore the negative consequences for workers and society
- Present a balanced argument
- Provide their personal opinion on the matter
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
The rise of the gig economy has sparked intense debate regarding its impact on workers and society at large. While some view this trend as a positive development offering flexibility and opportunities, others argue that it undermines job security and workers’ rights. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of the gig economy argue that it provides unprecedented flexibility and autonomy for workers. Freelancers and independent contractors can choose their working hours, select projects that align with their interests, and potentially earn higher incomes by leveraging their skills across multiple platforms. This flexibility is particularly appealing to those seeking work-life balance or supplementary income. Moreover, the gig economy has created new opportunities for individuals in regions with limited traditional job markets, enabling them to access global clientele through digital platforms.
On the other hand, critics contend that the gig economy erodes job security and worker protections. Gig workers often lack benefits such as health insurance, paid leave, and retirement plans, which are typically associated with full-time employment. The absence of these safeguards can lead to financial instability and increased stress for workers. Furthermore, the gig economy may contribute to the casualization of labor, potentially weakening collective bargaining power and exacerbating income inequality.
In my opinion, while the gig economy offers valuable opportunities for flexibility and entrepreneurship, it is crucial to address its shortcomings to ensure fair treatment of workers. Governments and businesses should collaborate to develop regulatory frameworks that provide gig workers with basic protections and benefits, similar to those enjoyed by traditional employees. This could include measures such as portable benefits systems or minimum wage guarantees for platform workers.
In conclusion, the gig economy presents both opportunities and challenges for workers and society. By striking a balance between flexibility and worker protection, we can harness the potential of this new economic model while mitigating its negative consequences.
(Word count: 298)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The gig economy, where people work on temporary jobs or separate tasks, has become more popular recently. Some people think this is good, while others believe it has bad effects on workers and society. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On the positive side, the gig economy gives workers more flexibility. People can choose when and where they want to work, which is good for those who need to balance work with other responsibilities like family or study. It also allows people to earn extra money by doing different jobs. For example, someone can drive for a ride-sharing app in their free time to make additional income.
However, there are also negative aspects to consider. Gig workers often don’t have job security or benefits like health insurance and paid holidays. This can make their financial situation unstable and stressful. Also, they might not have the same rights as regular employees, which could lead to unfair treatment.
In my opinion, while the gig economy offers some advantages, it’s important to address its problems. I think governments should make rules to protect gig workers and ensure they have some basic rights and benefits. This would help make the gig economy fairer for everyone.
To conclude, the gig economy has both good and bad points. It’s important to find a way to keep the flexibility it offers while also protecting workers’ rights and security.
(Word count: 238)
Key Writing Tips
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing different views, and a conclusion. The band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
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Vocabulary: The band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases such as “unprecedented flexibility,” “exacerbating income inequality,” and “portable benefits systems.” The band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates the main ideas.
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Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentences and grammatical structures. The band 6-7 essay uses simpler sentence structures but maintains grammatical accuracy.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more comprehensive analysis of the issue.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The band 8-9 essay shows better use of cohesive devices and logical flow between ideas. The band 6-7 essay is coherent but uses simpler linking words.
Essential Vocabulary
- Gig economy (n.) /ɡɪɡ iˈkɒnəmi/ – An economy based on temporary or freelance work
- Freelancer (n.) /ˈfriːlɑːnsər/ – A self-employed person offering services to multiple clients
- Autonomy (n.) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – Freedom to make one’s own decisions
- Casualization (n.) /ˌkæʒuəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of making employment less secure or regular
- Collective bargaining (n.) /kəˌlektɪv ˈbɑːɡənɪŋ/ – Negotiation between employers and workers’ representatives
- Entrepreneurship (n.) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – The activity of setting up and running a business
- Exacerbate (v.) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or situation worse
- Mitigate (v.) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe or serious
Conclusion
The gig economy’s impact on job security is a complex and evolving topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in changing employment patterns
- The balance between worker flexibility and job security
- Government policies to protect workers in the digital age
Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your target band score. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.