The topic of international cooperation in addressing global poverty is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current global issues, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Its relevance to global socio-economic challenges makes it a prime candidate for IELTS essay questions. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Some people believe that rich nations should provide financial aid to poorer countries to help alleviate global poverty. Others argue that this approach is ineffective and that international cooperation should focus on other methods. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic IELTS Task 2 structure – discussing two contrasting viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. It specifically addresses the role of international cooperation in tackling global poverty, focusing on financial aid versus alternative methods.
Key points to consider:
- The effectiveness of financial aid from rich to poor countries
- Alternative methods of international cooperation to address poverty
- The importance of balancing both viewpoints
- Formulating and supporting a personal stance on the issue
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Level
In the face of persistent global poverty, the international community grapples with the most effective approaches to address this pressing issue. While some advocate for direct financial assistance from wealthy nations to impoverished countries, others contend that alternative forms of cooperation yield more sustainable results. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on this complex matter.
Proponents of financial aid argue that it provides immediate relief and resources necessary for developing nations to build infrastructure, improve education, and stimulate economic growth. They maintain that without this crucial injection of capital, many countries would remain trapped in a cycle of poverty, unable to initiate meaningful progress. Moreover, financial aid can be seen as a form of global solidarity, demonstrating the commitment of prosperous nations to support those less fortunate.
On the other hand, critics of this approach point out that financial aid alone often fails to address the root causes of poverty and can create dependency. They argue that international cooperation should instead focus on measures such as fair trade policies, technology transfer, and capacity building. These alternative methods aim to empower developing nations to achieve sustainable economic growth independently, rather than relying on perpetual handouts. Additionally, there are concerns about the mismanagement and misappropriation of funds in recipient countries, which can undermine the effectiveness of financial aid.
In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines financial assistance with other forms of international cooperation is most likely to yield positive results. While immediate financial aid is often necessary to address urgent needs and kickstart development projects, it should be complemented by long-term strategies that promote self-reliance and sustainable growth. This could involve conditional aid tied to governance improvements, investments in education and healthcare, and partnerships that facilitate knowledge and technology transfer.
In conclusion, addressing global poverty requires a multifaceted approach to international cooperation. By combining thoughtful financial assistance with initiatives that build capacity and promote fair economic systems, the global community can work towards a more equitable and prosperous world for all nations.
(Word count: 317)
Essay Analysis:
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a clear central topic, and linking words are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “persistent global poverty”, “sustainable results”, “capacity building”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of grammatical structures accurately, including complex sentences and passive voice.
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Critical Thinking: The essay demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the issue, acknowledging the complexity of the topic and proposing a balanced solution.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Level
The question of how to best address global poverty through international cooperation is a topic of much debate. Some people think rich countries should give money to poor countries, while others believe this is not effective and other methods should be used. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support financial aid argue that it is a direct way to help poor countries. They say that money can be used to build schools, hospitals, and roads, which are important for development. Also, financial aid can help in emergencies like natural disasters when countries need quick help. This view sees rich countries as having a responsibility to help those less fortunate.
On the other hand, some people think giving money is not the best solution. They argue that financial aid can create dependency and doesn’t solve the real problems causing poverty. Instead, they suggest focusing on things like fair trade, education programs, and teaching skills. These methods aim to help poor countries become more independent and able to solve their own problems in the long term.
In my opinion, both financial aid and other forms of cooperation are important. I think rich countries should give money, especially in urgent situations, but this should be combined with other types of help. For example, they could provide experts to teach new skills or help set up businesses. This way, poor countries can get immediate help but also learn how to improve their situation in the future.
To conclude, addressing global poverty is a complex issue that requires different approaches. A combination of financial aid and other forms of cooperation is likely to be most effective in helping poor countries develop and reduce poverty in the long term.
(Word count: 280)
Essay Analysis:
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a Band 6-7 level for the following reasons:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. Some linking words are used, but they could be more varied.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the sophistication and precision of higher band scores. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are made (e.g., “dependency”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Critical Thinking: The essay shows some analysis of the issue, but the ideas could be more fully explored and supported with examples.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Global poverty (noun) – /ˈɡləʊbəl ˈpɒvəti/ – Widespread lack of wealth and resources across the world
- International cooperation (noun) – /ɪntəˈnæʃənəl kəʊˌɒpəˈreɪʃən/ – Collaboration between countries
- Financial aid (noun) – /faɪˈnænʃəl eɪd/ – Monetary assistance provided to support a cause or country
- Alleviate (verb) – /əˈliːvieɪt/ – To make a problem or suffering less severe
- Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Dependency (noun) – /dɪˈpendənsi/ – The state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else
- Capacity building (noun) – /kəˈpæsəti ˈbɪldɪŋ/ – The process of developing and strengthening skills, abilities, and resources
- Fair trade (noun) – /feə treɪd/ – Ethical trading partnership based on dialogue, transparency, and respect
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
- Empowerment (noun) – /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ – The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life and claiming one’s rights
Conclusion
The role of international cooperation in addressing global poverty is a crucial topic that is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen from the sample essays, this subject allows for discussion of various aspects such as financial aid, sustainable development, and alternative forms of cooperation.
To prepare for potential questions on this topic, consider practicing with prompts like:
- “Some argue that international trade is more effective than aid in reducing global poverty. To what extent do you agree or disagree?”
- “Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of developed countries providing technological assistance to developing nations as a means of addressing poverty.”
- “Education is the key to solving global poverty. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?”
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, provide well-developed ideas, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and maintain coherence throughout your essay. Practice writing essays on this topic and feel free to share your attempts in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.