A wealth tax on affluent individuals has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme frequently emerges in agree/disagree and discussion essays, particularly in Asian test centers. Let’s examine a recent question that represents this topic:
Some people believe that governments should impose higher taxes on the wealthy to redistribute wealth more fairly in society. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Wealth tax debate illustration showing balanced scales with money and social benefits
Question Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on wealth taxation
- Discuss economic and social implications
- Consider fairness and wealth distribution
- Evaluate government’s role in economic equality
- Provide relevant examples and supporting evidence
Band 8 Sample Essay
Here is a model essay targeting Band 8:
Wealth redistribution through progressive taxation remains a contentious issue in many societies. While I partially agree that higher taxes on the affluent can promote social equity, I believe this approach requires careful implementation to avoid potential negative consequences.
Higher taxes on the wealthy can indeed contribute to social welfare in several ways. Firstly, the additional revenue generated can fund essential public services like healthcare and education, making these more accessible to lower-income groups. For example, in Scandinavian countries, high tax rates on top earners help maintain comprehensive social security systems that benefit the entire population. Additionally, progressive taxation can help reduce the wealth gap, which has been growing significantly in many countries over recent decades.
However, excessive taxation of the wealthy may have counterproductive effects. When tax rates become too high, wealthy individuals and corporations might relocate to jurisdictions with lower tax burdens, resulting in capital flight and reduced overall tax revenue. Moreover, high taxes could discourage entrepreneurship and investment, which are crucial drivers of economic growth and job creation. The experience of France’s wealth tax implementation in 2012 demonstrates these risks, as it led to significant capital outflow before being modified.
A balanced approach to wealth taxation is therefore necessary. Governments should establish moderate progressive tax rates that generate sufficient revenue while maintaining incentives for wealth creation and economic growth. This could be complemented by other measures such as closing tax loopholes, improving tax collection efficiency, and ensuring transparent utilization of tax revenue for public benefit.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
A more basic response achieving Band 6.5:
I agree that rich people should pay more taxes to help make society more equal. This essay will discuss the advantages and some problems of this idea.
The main benefit of taxing rich people more is that it gives the government more money to help poor people. For example, if rich people pay higher taxes, the government can spend more money on schools, hospitals, and housing for poor families. This is good because many people cannot afford these things by themselves. Also, when rich people share their money through taxes, it makes society more fair and reduces the gap between rich and poor.
However, there are some problems with high taxes on rich people. First, they might try to avoid paying taxes by moving their money to other countries where taxes are lower. Second, some rich people might not want to work hard or start new businesses if they have to pay too much tax. This could be bad for the economy because we need successful businesses to create jobs.
In conclusion, I think higher taxes on wealthy people are good but they should not be too high. Governments need to find the right balance between getting money for public services and keeping rich people willing to work and invest in the country.
Essay Analysis and Band Scores Explanation
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “contentious,” “progressive taxation,” “jurisdictions”
- Complex sentence structures with appropriate linking
- Clear position with nuanced arguments
- Well-developed examples and explanations
- Coherent paragraphing and logical flow
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Some attempt at complex sentences
- Limited range of linking words
- Basic examples and explanations
Key Vocabulary
- Progressive taxation (n) /prəˈɡresɪv tækˈseɪʃən/ – tax system where higher earners pay higher rates
- Capital flight (n) /ˈkæpɪtl flaɪt/ – rapid movement of money out of a country
- Entrepreneurship (n) /ˌɒntrəprəˈnɜːʃɪp/ – process of starting businesses
- Jurisdiction (n) /ˌdʒʊərɪsˈdɪkʃən/ – area where particular laws apply
- Social equity (n) /ˈsəʊʃəl ˈekwɪti/ – fairness in society
- Wealth redistribution (n) /welθ ˌriːdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən/ – transfer of wealth from rich to poor
Infographic showing wealth distribution and tax effects
Similar topics you might encounter:
- Tax reforms for economic equality
- Universal basic income funded by wealth tax
- Corporate tax rates and social responsibility
- Economic inequality solutions
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share in the comments for feedback!
