Economic sanctions and their effect on international commerce have become increasingly relevant topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject combines elements of economics, politics, and global affairs, making it a challenging yet intriguing theme for test-takers. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore a sample question, provide model essays for different band scores, and offer valuable insights to help you excel in your IELTS writing task.
Analyzing the Topic and its Relevance in IELTS
The Impact Of Economic Sanctions On Global Trade is a topic that has gained significant traction in recent years due to geopolitical tensions and evolving international relations. Based on our analysis of past IELTS exams and current global trends, we predict this theme will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Its complexity and relevance to current affairs make it an ideal subject for assessing candidates’ ability to articulate nuanced arguments.
Sample Question and Analysis
Let’s examine a question that closely resembles those found in actual IELTS exams:
Some people believe that economic sanctions are an effective way to pressure countries to change their policies, while others argue that sanctions mainly harm ordinary citizens and have little impact on governments. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the effectiveness of economic sanctions in influencing government policies
- Explore the potential negative impacts on ordinary citizens
- Provide your personal perspective on the issue
Remember to address all parts of the question and support your arguments with relevant examples and explanations.
Economic Sanctions Impact
Model Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Sample
Economic sanctions have long been a controversial tool in international relations, with proponents arguing for their effectiveness in pressuring governments and critics highlighting their unintended consequences. This essay will examine both perspectives and argue that while sanctions can be influential, their implementation requires careful consideration to minimize collateral damage.
Advocates of economic sanctions contend that they provide a non-violent means of influencing state behavior. By restricting trade, freezing assets, or limiting financial transactions, sanctioning countries can exert significant pressure on target governments to alter their policies. For instance, the sanctions imposed on South Africa in the 1980s are often credited with contributing to the end of apartheid. Similarly, recent sanctions on Russia following its actions in Ukraine have reportedly strained its economy, potentially influencing its strategic decisions.
However, critics argue that sanctions often fail to achieve their intended goals and instead primarily harm ordinary citizens. The impact of trade restrictions and economic isolation typically cascades down to the general population, leading to job losses, inflation, and shortages of essential goods. This was evident in Iraq during the 1990s, where comprehensive sanctions led to severe humanitarian consequences without effectively changing the regime’s behavior. Moreover, sanctions can sometimes strengthen authoritarian governments by allowing them to blame external forces for domestic hardships, fostering nationalism and reducing internal opposition.
In my opinion, the effectiveness of economic sanctions depends largely on their design and implementation. Targeted or “smart” sanctions that focus on specific individuals, companies, or sectors can be more effective in pressuring decision-makers while minimizing harm to the general population. Additionally, sanctions should be part of a broader diplomatic strategy, including clear objectives and potential incentives for compliance. The Iran nuclear deal of 2015, which involved the lifting of sanctions in exchange for nuclear program restrictions, exemplifies how sanctions can be effectively leveraged as part of a comprehensive approach.
In conclusion, while economic sanctions can be a powerful tool in international relations, their impact on global trade and ordinary citizens necessitates careful consideration. A nuanced approach that combines targeted sanctions with diplomatic engagement and clear objectives is more likely to achieve desired outcomes while mitigating unintended consequences.
(Word count: 345)
Band 6-7 Essay Sample
Economic sanctions are a controversial topic in international relations. Some people think they are a good way to make countries change their policies, but others believe they mainly hurt ordinary people without affecting governments much. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support sanctions argue that they can pressure countries to change their behavior without using military force. When a country faces trade restrictions or financial penalties, its economy can suffer, which might make the government reconsider its actions. For example, sanctions on South Africa in the past helped end apartheid. Also, recent sanctions on Russia because of its actions in Ukraine have caused problems for its economy.
On the other hand, critics of sanctions say they often don’t work and mostly harm regular citizens. When trade is restricted, it can lead to job losses, higher prices, and shortages of important goods. This happened in Iraq in the 1990s, where sanctions caused a lot of suffering for ordinary people but didn’t change the government’s behavior much. Also, sometimes sanctions can make authoritarian governments stronger because they can blame other countries for their problems and increase nationalism.
In my opinion, whether sanctions work or not depends on how they are used. Targeted sanctions that focus on specific people or companies in the government might be more effective and cause less harm to ordinary citizens. It’s also important to use sanctions as part of a larger plan that includes diplomacy and clear goals. The Iran nuclear deal in 2015, where sanctions were lifted in exchange for limits on Iran’s nuclear program, is a good example of how sanctions can be used effectively.
To conclude, economic sanctions can be a useful tool in international relations, but they can also have negative effects on global trade and ordinary people. I believe that a careful approach using targeted sanctions along with diplomacy is more likely to work and cause less unintended harm.
(Word count: 321)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Ensure your essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Use topic sentences to introduce each main point.
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Balance: For band 8-9, present a nuanced argument that considers multiple perspectives. For band 6-7, a more straightforward approach is acceptable, but still aim to discuss both sides.
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Examples: Use specific examples to support your arguments. Higher band scores require more sophisticated and varied examples.
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Vocabulary: Utilize a range of vocabulary related to economics and international relations. Band 8-9 essays should demonstrate a more advanced and precise use of language.
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Grammar: Use a variety of sentence structures. Band 8-9 essays should have more complex sentences and fewer errors.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ensure your ideas flow logically. Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect your ideas.
Essential Vocabulary for This Topic
- Economic sanctions (noun) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈsæŋkʃənz/ – Punitive economic measures imposed by one country on another
- Global trade (noun) /ˈɡləʊbəl treɪd/ – The exchange of goods and services across international borders
- Geopolitical (adjective) /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkəl/ – Relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors
- Collateral damage (noun) /kəˈlætərəl ˈdæmɪdʒ/ – Unintended consequences or side effects of an action
- Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/ – Concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare
- Authoritarian (adjective) /ɔːˌθɒrɪˈteəriən/ – Favoring or enforcing strict obedience to authority at the expense of personal freedom
- Diplomacy (noun) /dɪˈpləʊməsi/ – The art of conducting international relations
- Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – Something that motivates or encourages someone to do something
- Compliance (noun) /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – The action or fact of complying with a wish or command
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
Conclusion
The impact of economic sanctions on global trade is a complex and relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key arguments, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your essay effectively, you can craft a compelling response. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as the effects of trade barriers, the role of international organizations in global commerce, or the economic impacts of political instability.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
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