Global trade agreements have been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of tests between 2019-2023. This topic’s relevance has increased due to recent international trade developments and the impact of technology on global trade. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this theme.
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Task Analysis
Some people believe that global trade agreements benefit large corporations rather than ordinary citizens. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires:
- Clear position on the statement
- Balanced discussion of benefits/drawbacks
- Real-world examples
- Logical structure and coherent arguments
Band 9 Sample Essay
Global trade agreements have revolutionized international commerce, and while some argue these primarily benefit major corporations, I strongly disagree with this viewpoint. These agreements create advantages for both businesses and ordinary citizens through various economic and social mechanisms.
Firstly, trade agreements significantly reduce consumer prices through eliminated tariffs and increased competition. When how exchange rates affect international trade is considered, ordinary citizens can access a wider variety of products at lower costs. For instance, the ASEAN Free Trade Agreement has made electronics and household goods more affordable for millions of Southeast Asian consumers.
Moreover, these agreements create substantial employment opportunities across various sectors. While impact of international trade on job markets shows some displacement in traditional industries, new positions emerge in export-oriented sectors, logistics, and support services. For example, Vietnam’s participation in multiple trade agreements has led to increased employment in manufacturing and service industries.
Furthermore, trade agreements often include provisions for environmental protection and labor rights, benefiting society at large. These regulations ensure companies maintain certain standards, protecting workers and communities from exploitation. The European Union’s trade agreements, for instance, require partner countries to maintain strict environmental and labor standards.
In conclusion, while large corporations do benefit from trade agreements, the advantages extend far beyond corporate profits to positively impact ordinary citizens through lower prices, job creation, and improved standards of living.
Benefits of Global Trade Agreements for Ordinary Citizens
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
I disagree that global trade agreements only help big companies because they also give benefits to normal people. These agreements make things better for everyone in different ways.
First, when countries make trade agreements, people can buy things cheaper. How international trade affects developing economies shows that when taxes on imported goods go down, prices in shops also go down. For example, in my country, after signing trade agreements, many people could buy phones and computers at lower prices.
Also, trade agreements help create more jobs. When companies can easily sell their products to other countries, they need more workers. This means more people can find work and earn money. In many Asian countries, trade agreements have helped create many factory jobs.
However, sometimes big companies do get more advantages. They have more money and resources to use trade agreements. But governments can make rules to help smaller businesses too.
In conclusion, while big companies do benefit from trade agreements, normal people also get many advantages like cheaper products and more jobs.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary (revolutionized, mechanisms, substantially)
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Relevant examples
- Strong cohesion
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear arguments
- Basic vocabulary
- Some grammar errors
- Limited use of complex structures
- Basic examples
Key Vocabulary
- Trade agreement (n) /treɪd əˈɡriːmənt/ – formal arrangement between countries
- Tariff (n) /ˈtærɪf/ – tax on imports or exports
- Bilateral (adj) /baɪˈlætərəl/ – involving two parties
- Protectionism (n) /prəˈtekʃənɪzəm/ – economic policy of restricting trade
- Quotas (n) /ˈkwəʊtəz/ – fixed limits on imports/exports
High-Scoring Sentence Patterns
- “While X may appear to be true, Y demonstrates otherwise…”
- “Not only does X lead to Y, but it also results in Z…”
- “The implementation of X has resulted in Y, as evidenced by Z…”
Consider practicing by writing your own essay and sharing it in the comments section. Remember to focus on clear argumentation and use of appropriate vocabulary and grammar structures.
