Globalization and its effects on job security have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. This theme has appeared frequently in recent years and is likely to continue being a popular subject for examination. Given its relevance to contemporary socio-economic issues, candidates should be well-prepared to address this topic. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze multiple essay responses tailored for different band scores.
Globalization and Job Security
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that globalization has negative effects on job security. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This question requires candidates to express their opinion on the relationship between globalization and job security. Key points to consider:
- Understand the concept of globalization and its economic implications
- Identify potential negative effects on job security
- Consider possible positive impacts or counterarguments
- Develop a clear stance (agree, disagree, or partially agree)
- Support your opinion with relevant examples and explanations
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Globalization, the process of international integration arising from the interchange of world views, products, ideas, and other aspects of culture, has undeniably transformed the global job market. While some argue that this phenomenon has adversely affected job security, I partially agree with this viewpoint, as the impact of globalization on employment is multifaceted and varies across different sectors and skill levels.
On one hand, globalization has indeed posed challenges to job security in certain industries. The ease of outsourcing labor to countries with lower wages has led to job losses in developed nations, particularly in manufacturing and low-skilled service sectors. For instance, many textile factories in the United States have closed down, unable to compete with cheaper production costs in countries like Bangladesh or Vietnam. This trend has left many workers unemployed or forced them to accept lower-paying jobs, thereby reducing their job security.
However, it would be an oversimplification to claim that globalization only negatively impacts job security. In fact, for many skilled professionals, globalization has opened up new opportunities and enhanced job prospects. The interconnectedness of global markets has created demand for expertise in fields such as international business, cross-cultural communication, and digital technology. Moreover, the expansion of multinational corporations has provided avenues for career growth and mobility that were previously unavailable. For example, a software engineer in India can now work remotely for a Silicon Valley startup, accessing higher wages and better career prospects.
Furthermore, globalization has spurred innovation and the creation of entirely new industries, offsetting job losses in traditional sectors. The rise of e-commerce, digital marketing, and fintech are prime examples of how globalization and technological advancements have generated new employment opportunities. These emerging fields often offer more stable and lucrative career paths compared to some traditional jobs that have been displaced.
In conclusion, while globalization has undoubtedly posed challenges to job security in certain sectors, its overall impact is more nuanced. The key to maintaining job security in a globalized world lies in continuous skill development and adaptability. Governments and educational institutions must focus on equipping the workforce with the skills needed to thrive in an interconnected global economy, thereby turning the challenges of globalization into opportunities for growth and prosperity.
Word count: 345
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
Task Response: The essay directly addresses the question, presenting a nuanced view that partially agrees with the statement. It explores both negative and positive impacts of globalization on job security.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-structured with clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific aspect. Transition words and phrases (e.g., “On one hand,” “However,” “Furthermore”) ensure smooth flow between ideas.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex terms related to the topic (e.g., “outsourcing,” “multinational corporations,” “interconnectedness”) are used effectively.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors. It uses different tenses and grammatical forms appropriately.
Examples and Support: The essay provides specific, relevant examples to support its arguments, such as the textile industry in the US and software engineers in India.
Conclusion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and offers a balanced perspective on the issue.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Globalization has become a big topic in recent years, and many people worry about its effects on jobs. Some think it makes jobs less secure. I partly agree with this idea because globalization can both help and hurt job security.
One reason why globalization might be bad for job security is that companies can now easily move jobs to other countries where workers are paid less. This means people in rich countries might lose their jobs. For example, many factories have closed in the USA and moved to China or Vietnam. This has made many workers unemployed and worried about finding new jobs.
However, globalization isn’t all bad for jobs. It has also created new opportunities for some people. The internet and better communication have made it possible for people to work for companies in other countries without moving. This can give some workers more choices and better pay. For instance, someone good with computers in India can now work for a company in America and earn more money.
Also, globalization has helped create new types of jobs that didn’t exist before. Jobs in areas like online shopping, social media, and international business have grown because of globalization. These new jobs can sometimes be more secure than old ones because they are growing fast.
In conclusion, while globalization can make some jobs less secure, especially in manufacturing, it also creates new opportunities and types of work. The key is for people to learn new skills that are useful in a global economy. Governments should help workers train for new jobs so they can benefit from globalization instead of being hurt by it.
Word count: 276
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but lacks the sophistication of a higher band score:
Task Response: The essay addresses the question and presents a balanced view, considering both negative and positive aspects of globalization on job security.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. However, the transitions between ideas could be smoother.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied and sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay. Some attempts at using more complex vocabulary are present (e.g., “globalization,” “opportunities”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are no major grammatical errors, but the structures are less varied than in a higher band essay.
Examples and Support: The essay provides relevant examples, such as factory closures and remote work opportunities, but they are less detailed than in the higher band essay.
Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and offers a balanced view, but it could be more nuanced.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Globalization (noun) – /ˌɡləʊbəlaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – The process of businesses or other organizations developing international influence or starting to operate on an international scale.
Job security (noun phrase) – /dʒɒb sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – The assurance that an employee has about the continuity of gainful employment for their work life.
Outsourcing (noun) – /ˈaʊtsɔːsɪŋ/ – The practice of obtaining goods or services from an outside or foreign supplier, especially in place of an internal source.
Interconnectedness (noun) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/ – The state of being connected with each other.
Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
Adaptability (noun) – /əˌdæptəˈbɪləti/ – The quality of being able to adjust to new conditions.
Innovation (noun) – /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – The action or process of innovating; a new method, idea, product, etc.
Multinational (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈnæʃənəl/ – Operating in several countries; involving people of several nationalities.
Fintech (noun) – /ˈfɪntek/ – Computer programs and other technology used to support or enable banking and financial services.
Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
Conclusion
The impact of globalization on job security is a complex and nuanced topic that requires careful consideration. As demonstrated in the sample essays, this subject can be approached from various angles, allowing candidates to showcase their analytical skills and ability to present balanced arguments.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of education in preparing workers for a globalized job market
- The impact of automation and artificial intelligence on global employment trends
- The effectiveness of government policies in protecting domestic jobs in a globalized economy
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to present a well-structured, coherent argument supported by relevant examples and a wide range of vocabulary and grammatical structures. Practice writing essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.