The topic of global economic reforms frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, particularly in recent years as the world faces unprecedented economic challenges. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams, this theme has appeared in approximately 15% of tests between 2020-2023, with increasing frequency. Let’s examine a recent exam question on this topic.
Nội dung bài viết
The need for global education reforms has become increasingly intertwined with economic policy discussions, as both sectors significantly impact each other.
Some people believe that governments should focus on economic growth to ensure the wellbeing of their citizens, while others argue that other aspects of society, such as education and healthcare, deserve more attention. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Question Analysis
This question requires:
- Discussion of both perspectives
- Clear personal stance
- Balanced analysis of economic growth vs. social development
- Relevant examples and supporting evidence
Economic Growth versus Social Development Priority Analysis
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
In the ongoing debate about government priorities, some advocate for economic growth as the primary focus, while others emphasize social services. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a balanced approach that prioritizes both economic and social development is essential for sustainable prosperity.
Those who prioritize economic growth argue that a robust economy creates the foundation for all other social improvements. Strong GDP growth generates employment opportunities, increases tax revenue, and attracts foreign investment, which ultimately provides governments with resources to fund social programs. For instance, Singapore’s remarkable economic transformation has enabled substantial investments in world-class education and healthcare systems.
However, as demonstrated by the effects of economic policies on social welfare, focusing solely on economic metrics can be detrimental. Countries that neglect social development risk creating significant inequality and social problems. Investment in education and healthcare directly contributes to economic productivity by developing human capital and maintaining a healthy workforce. The Nordic countries exemplify how strong social services can support sustainable economic growth.
In my view, governments should pursue a complementary approach. Economic growth and social development are mutually reinforcing, not mutually exclusive. Strategic investment in education and healthcare can accelerate economic development, while economic growth provides resources for social programs. South Korea’s development model demonstrates how balanced attention to both aspects can create a prosperous and equitable society.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Some people think governments should focus on economic growth, but others believe education and healthcare are more important. I think both views have good points, but social development is more important.
Firstly, economic growth is important because it creates jobs and money. When the economy is good, people can find work and earn more money. This helps them live better lives. Also, the government gets more tax money to spend on different things.
However, education and healthcare are very important for people’s lives. If people are healthy and educated, they can work better and earn more money. For example, in many countries, better education helps people get better jobs. Also, when people are healthy, they don’t need to spend much money on medical treatment.
I think governments should focus more on education and healthcare because these things help everyone in society. While economic growth is important, it doesn’t always help all people equally. When governments invest in schools and hospitals, everyone benefits.
Social Investment Benefits in Developing Economies
Vocabulary Analysis
- robust (adj.) /rəˈbʌst/ – strong and healthy
- GDP (n.) /ˌdʒiː diː ˈpiː/ – Gross Domestic Product
- detrimental (adj.) /ˌdetrɪˈmentl/ – causing harm
- mutually reinforcing (phrase) /ˈmjuːtʃuəli riːɪnˈfɔːsɪŋ/ – supporting each other
- complementary (adj.) /ˌkɒmplɪˈmentəri/ – combining well together
Key Sentence Structures
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Complex Contrast:
“While economic growth is important, it doesn’t always help all people equally.”
Structure: While + clause, subject + verb + complement -
Cause-Effect with Multiple Elements:
“Strategic investment in education and healthcare can accelerate economic development, while economic growth provides resources for social programs.”
Structure: Subject + verb + object, while + clause
For further insights into how economic reforms relate to global challenges, you may want to explore How does globalization impact ecosystems and climate change.
I encourage readers to practice writing their own essay responses to this question and share them in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
