Universal Basic Income (UBI) has been a hot topic in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in relation to poverty reduction. This theme has appeared multiple times in past tests and is likely to continue featuring prominently due to its global relevance. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Task Question
Let’s focus on a commonly encountered question type for this topic:
Some people think that governments should provide a universal basic income to all citizens to reduce poverty. Others believe this would be too expensive and there are better ways to help the poor.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic “discuss both views and give your opinion” format. It requires you to:
- Explain why some people support UBI as a poverty reduction measure
- Present arguments against UBI, focusing on its cost and alternative solutions
- Provide your personal stance on the issue
Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Universal Basic Income: A Double-Edged Sword in Poverty Reduction
The concept of Universal Basic Income (UBI) as a tool to combat poverty has gained traction in recent years, sparking debate among policymakers and economists. While proponents argue that UBI could effectively alleviate poverty, critics contend that its implementation would be fiscally unsustainable and that more targeted approaches would yield better results. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a balanced view on this contentious issue.
Advocates of UBI argue that it could significantly reduce poverty by providing a financial safety net for all citizens. By guaranteeing a minimum income, UBI would ensure that no one falls below the poverty line, potentially eliminating extreme poverty altogether. Moreover, this unconditional support could empower individuals to pursue education, start businesses, or engage in creative endeavors without the constant worry of basic survival. This financial security could lead to increased social mobility and a more dynamic economy in the long run.
On the other hand, critics raise valid concerns about the feasibility and effectiveness of UBI. The primary argument against it is its enormous cost, which could strain government budgets and potentially lead to increased taxes or reduced funding for other essential services. Skeptics also argue that a universal approach may not be the most efficient way to address poverty, as it would provide funds to those who don’t necessarily need them. They contend that targeted welfare programs, job creation initiatives, and investments in education and healthcare would be more cost-effective in helping the poor.
In my opinion, while UBI presents an intriguing solution to poverty, its implementation on a large scale remains challenging. A more viable approach might be to start with pilot programs in specific regions or demographics to assess its impact and refine the model. Simultaneously, governments should continue to invest in targeted poverty reduction strategies and address systemic issues that contribute to economic inequality. A hybrid approach that combines elements of UBI with more traditional welfare programs could potentially offer a balanced solution to poverty reduction without overburdening national economies.
In conclusion, the debate over UBI as a means to reduce poverty is complex and multifaceted. While it offers the promise of a comprehensive safety net, concerns about its cost and efficiency cannot be ignored. As societies grapple with evolving economic challenges, finding innovative yet sustainable solutions to poverty will remain a critical priority for governments worldwide.
(Word count: 378)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “financial safety net” and “social mobility”.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors.
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Critical Thinking: The essay demonstrates sophisticated analysis and evaluation of the issue, presenting a nuanced view of the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Universal Basic Income: A Solution to Poverty?
Many people think that governments should give a basic income to all citizens to help reduce poverty. However, others say this would cost too much money and there are better ways to help poor people. This essay will look at both sides of this argument and give my opinion.
Those who support universal basic income (UBI) believe it can help end poverty. They say that if everyone gets a regular payment from the government, no one will be extremely poor. This money could help people pay for food, housing, and other basic needs. It might also give people more freedom to study or start businesses, which could help the economy grow.
On the other hand, people against UBI worry about how much it would cost. Giving money to everyone, even rich people, would be very expensive for governments. This might mean higher taxes or less money for other important things like healthcare or education. Some people also think that UBI might make people lazy and not want to work.
There are other ways to help poor people that might work better. For example, governments could create more jobs, improve education, or provide better healthcare. These targeted approaches might be cheaper and more effective than giving money to everyone.
In my opinion, while UBI is an interesting idea, it might be too expensive and difficult to implement right now. I think a mix of different approaches would work better. Governments could try UBI on a small scale first to see how it works. At the same time, they should focus on creating jobs and improving education to help people escape poverty.
In conclusion, UBI could help reduce poverty, but it has some big challenges. I believe that a combination of different methods, including some elements of UBI and other targeted programs, might be the best way to fight poverty without spending too much money.
(Word count: 320)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas, but with some limitations:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Critical Thinking: The essay presents relevant ideas but with less depth and nuance compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Universal Basic Income (UBI) (noun) – /ˌjuːnɪˈvɜːsl ˈbeɪsɪk ˈɪnkʌm/ – A government program in which every adult citizen receives a set amount of money regularly
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Alleviate (verb) – /əˈliːvieɪt/ – To make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe
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Fiscal (adjective) – /ˈfɪskl/ – Relating to government revenue, especially taxes
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Empowerment (noun) – /ɪmˈpaʊəmənt/ – The process of becoming stronger and more confident, especially in controlling one’s life
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Social mobility (noun) – /ˈsəʊʃl məʊˈbɪləti/ – The ability to move between different levels in society
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Feasibility (noun) – /ˌfiːzəˈbɪləti/ – The state or degree of being easily or conveniently done
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Implementation (noun) – /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – The process of putting a decision or plan into effect
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Systemic (adjective) – /sɪˈstemɪk/ – Relating to a system, especially as opposed to a particular part
Conclusion
The topic of Universal Basic Income and its potential to reduce poverty is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the different perspectives and practicing with sample essays like these, you can improve your ability to articulate your thoughts on this subject effectively.
For further practice, consider writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:
- The role of technology in creating and solving unemployment issues
- The balance between government welfare and individual responsibility
- The impact of automation on job markets and income inequality
Remember to focus on clear structure, varied vocabulary, and well-developed arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
If you’re interested in exploring more IELTS Writing Task 2 topics, you might find our articles on the role of education in combating global poverty and the impact of sustainable agriculture on food security helpful for expanding your knowledge and improving your essay writing skills.