Should economic progress be the main goal for governments or are there other considerations more important?
There has been much discussion lately about whether economic progress should be the main goal for governments or if other progress goals matter more.
Cambridge 11 Test 2 Writing Task 2 Answer
This IELTS Book 11 Test 2 Writing Task 2 question asks you to discuss both points of view and give your opinion on the matter.
Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Cambridge 11 Test 2 Writing Task 2
While economic progress might be the key objective of most countries, there are other aspects by which progress can be measured, such as through the degree of development of human rights and social and cultural progress.
Firstly, the development of the economy is commonly the major concern for most governments for several reasons. A strong economy provides employment for the population, attracts inward foreign investment, and generates greater tax revenue. In many cases, economic progress leads to the development and progress of other sectors of society as a knock-on effect. However, it is challenging to focus on social progress and other areas requiring improvement within a society if the economy itself is not sound.
In cases where a country has a weak economy, there is usually much suffering and poverty. In general, people are more concerned with employment opportunities and acquiring the basic needs of life rather than more lofty ideals such as improving human rights and the social welfare of the entire population. It is therefore common for such concerns to only come to the fore in developed or developing countries. In such countries, most of the population has attained a certain degree of security and comfort regarding their basic needs and is willing to concern themselves with other societal issues.
In conclusion, it is easy to understand why most governments focus on economic stability and growth as a means to drive development and progress in other areas of society. A strong economy provides for all the basic needs of a population, thus allowing the country to tackle other issues, which may be pressing, but less so than economic progress.
Cambridge 11 Writing Task 2 Test 2What's your opinion?
Many governments think that economic progress is their most important goal. Some people, however, think that other types of progress are equally important for a country.
Essay Writing Discussion Questions
FAQ
What are some relevant examples of alternative measures of progress for a country instead of simply economic progress?
Some relevant examples of alternative ways of measuring a country's progress include the Human Development Index, the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals, and the World Happiness Report. These indices take into account factors such as life expectancy, education levels, the standard of living, and environmental sustainability including initiatives to increase recycling, adopt renewable energy, etc., in addition to economic growth.
What practical skills do you need to write Band 9 IELTS Task 2 answers?
To write Band 9 IELTS Task 2 answers, you will need to be able to produce well-organized, coherent, and detailed responses. You should also be able to develop your ideas fully and support your arguments with relevant examples. Additionally, you will need to use a wide range of vocabulary appropriately and avoid making any major errors in grammar or punctuation. Finally, you will need to be able to write at a reasonable pace so that you can complete the task within the allotted time limit.
Can I still get a high score in IELTS writing if English is a foreign language for me?
Yes, you can still get a high score in IELTS writing if English is not your first language. However, it will take some effort and practice to reach the level required for a high score. For tips on improving your IELTS writing skills, please see our article IELTS Writing Tips for Foreign Language Learners.
In IELTS Task 2, is it better to completely agree or disagree with the view(s) given in the question or can you agree partially with the statement?
There are differing opinions on this matter, and there is no definitive answer. It is up to the test taker to decide which approach they feel will produce the best essay answer based on their opinion and knowledge related to the topic.
If you choose to partially agree with the statement, you will need to explain both your agreement and disagreement. Whichever approach you choose, make sure that your essay is well-organized.
Which test is better to have to work in a foreign country, IELTS Academic or IELTS General Training?
Both versions test the English language ability of non-native speakers. However, which one you should take depends on your goals.
IELTS Academic is for people who want to study or train in an English-speaking country at an undergraduate or postgraduate level, or who want to join a professional organization where English is the language of communication.
IELTS General Training is for people who want to migrate to a country where the people speak English (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK), or who need to take the test for work or training purposes.