Flexible working hours has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, questions about workplace flexibility have appeared roughly 2-3 times annually since 2019, making it a highly relevant subject for IELTS candidates.
Benefits of flexible working hours? has emerged as a significant workplace trend that test-takers should be prepared to discuss. Let’s examine a recent IELTS Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that flexible working hours benefit both employers and employees. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Essay Analysis
This question requires candidates to:
- Take a clear position on flexible working hours
- Discuss impacts on both employers and employees
- Support arguments with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced discussion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, flexible working arrangements have gained significant traction in many organizations. I strongly agree that this approach offers substantial advantages for both companies and their workforce, leading to improved productivity and job satisfaction.
From an employer’s perspective, flexible working hours can significantly enhance business operations. Companies that implement The benefits of flexible work policies often experience increased productivity as employees work during their most effective hours. For instance, research by Stanford University showed that remote workers with flexible schedules were 13% more productive than their office-bound counterparts. Furthermore, organizations can reduce overhead costs associated with maintaining office space and utilities when employees work variable hours.
For employees, the benefits are equally compelling. Flexible schedules allow workers to maintain a better work-life balance, reducing stress and improving mental well-being. This arrangement enables parents to manage childcare responsibilities more effectively and gives all employees the opportunity to pursue personal interests or further education. Additionally, The benefits of gig economy jobs demonstrate how flexibility can lead to increased job satisfaction and reduced commuting time and costs.
However, successful implementation requires clear communication and proper management systems. Organizations must establish robust performance metrics and ensure team collaboration remains effective despite varying schedules. When properly executed, flexible working hours create a win-win situation that promotes both business success and employee satisfaction.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that flexible working hours are good for both companies and workers because it helps everyone work better and be happier.
When companies let workers choose their working time, they can save money on office costs. Also, workers feel happier and work harder because they can choose when to work. For example, some people work better in the morning, while others prefer working at night. This makes the company more successful.
For workers, flexible hours help them take care of their families better. They can pick up children from school or go to doctor appointments without problems. Also, they don’t have to spend so much time in traffic during rush hour, which saves time and money.
However, there can be some problems. Sometimes it’s hard for team members to work together when they have different schedules. Also, some workers might not manage their time well without fixed hours. But I think these problems can be solved with good planning and communication.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Clear position and sophisticated arguments
- Excellent paragraph organization
- Advanced vocabulary and complex sentences
- Relevant examples and research citation
- Smooth transitions between ideas
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Clear but simpler arguments
- Basic paragraph structure
- Limited vocabulary range
- Simple examples
- Basic transitions
Key Vocabulary
- traction (n) /ˈtrækʃn/ – growing acceptance
- overhead costs (n) /ˈəʊvəhed kɒsts/ – operational expenses
- implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/ – execution of a plan
- robust (adj) /rəʊˈbʌst/ – strong and effective
- metrics (n) /ˈmetrɪks/ – measurement systems
Advanced Sentence Structures
- Complex with relative clause: “Organizations that implement flexible policies often experience increased productivity”
- Conditional structure: “When properly executed, flexible working hours create a win-win situation”
- Complex-compound: “Research shows that remote workers are more productive, while companies save on operational costs”
Remember to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback. Focus on developing clear arguments and using appropriate vocabulary to express your ideas effectively.