IELTS Writing Task 2: Small Businesses - Band 8.0 Sample with Full Breakdown
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Prompt
Some people believe that small businesses play a crucial role in economic growth, while others argue that large corporations are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Model Answers
Band 6.0 Answer
Small businesses are important for the economy. They create jobs and help local communities. However, big companies are also important because they can make more money and create more jobs. I think both are important but small businesses are better because they help more people in local areas.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with limited development
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Some organization but lacks clear progression
- Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Limited range of vocabulary
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Frequent errors but meaning is clear
Band 7.0 Answer
The role of small businesses in economic growth is significant as they contribute to job creation and local economic development. However, large corporations also play a vital role by driving innovation and generating substantial revenue. While small businesses foster community development, large corporations often have the resources to invest in research and development, leading to technological advancements. In my opinion, both are essential, but small businesses have a more direct impact on local economies.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with some development
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Logical organization with some cohesive devices
- Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Adequate range of vocabulary
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Some errors but generally accurate
Band 8.0 Answer
The economic landscape is undeniably shaped by both small businesses and large corporations, each contributing uniquely to growth and development. Small businesses are the backbone of local economies, providing employment opportunities and fostering community development. They often cater to niche markets and can adapt quickly to changing consumer needs. For instance, local cafes and boutique shops not only create jobs but also enhance the cultural fabric of neighborhoods. Conversely, large corporations drive innovation and economic scalability. Their substantial resources enable significant investments in research and development, leading to technological advancements that can transform industries. Multinational companies, for example, often pioneer groundbreaking technologies that have global impacts. In my view, while both are indispensable, small businesses hold a distinct advantage in fostering community resilience and economic diversity. By supporting a myriad of small enterprises, economies can achieve a more balanced and sustainable growth trajectory.
Scoring Breakdown
- Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with thorough development
- Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Logical organization with effective use of cohesive devices
- Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Sophisticated vocabulary with varied usage
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Minimal errors with a mix of simple and complex sentence structures
Vocabulary Highlights
- Backbone (noun) - The essential part of something. Example: Small businesses are the backbone of local economies.
- Foster (verb) - To encourage the development of something. Example: They foster community development.
- Niche (noun) - A specialized segment of the market. Example: They cater to niche markets.
- Adapt (verb) - To adjust to new conditions. Example: They can adapt quickly to changing consumer needs.
- Cultural fabric (noun) - The essential characteristics of a culture. Example: They enhance the cultural fabric of neighborhoods.
- Scalability (noun) - The ability to grow without compromising performance. Example: They drive economic scalability.
- Pioneer (verb) - To be the first to do something. Example: They often pioneer groundbreaking technologies.
- Transform (verb) - To change something significantly. Example: Technologies that can transform industries.
- Indispensable (adjective) - Absolutely necessary. Example: Both are indispensable.
- Resilience (noun) - The ability to recover quickly from difficulties. Example: Fostering community resilience.
- Diversity (noun) - The quality of being diverse. Example: Economic diversity.
- Trajectory (noun) - The path followed by something. Example: A more balanced growth trajectory.
- Substantial (adjective) - Considerable in size or amount. Example: Substantial resources.
- Investments (noun) - The action of putting money into financial schemes. Example: Significant investments in research and development.
- Advancements (noun) - The process of moving forward in a purposeful way. Example: Technological advancements.
- Undeniably (adverb) - In a way that cannot be denied. Example: The economic landscape is undeniably shaped.
- Myriad (noun) - A large number of something. Example: Supporting a myriad of small enterprises.
- Balanced (adjective) - Having a sense of balance or equilibrium. Example: A more balanced growth trajectory.
- Sustainable (adjective) - Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level. Example: Sustainable growth trajectory.
- Local economies (noun) - The economic activities within a specific geographical area. Example: Small businesses are the backbone of local economies.
Common Mistakes
- Overgeneralization - Avoid making broad statements without specific examples.
- Lack of Coherence - Ensure each paragraph flows logically to the next.
- Repetition - Use a variety of vocabulary to express ideas.
- Grammatical Errors - Pay attention to subject-verb agreement and tense consistency.
- Inadequate Development - Provide sufficient details and examples to support your arguments.
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FAQs
What is the word count requirement for IELTS Writing Task 2?
The minimum word count is 250 words. Answers with fewer words may receive a lower score for Task Response.
How important is vocabulary in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Vocabulary accounts for 25% of your total score. Using a range of sophisticated and appropriate vocabulary can significantly boost your score.
Can I use bullet points in my IELTS Writing Task 2 answer?
No, bullet points are not acceptable. Your answer must be written in full sentences and paragraphs.
How can I improve my coherence and cohesion?
Use linking words and phrases to connect your ideas. Ensure each paragraph has a clear topic sentence and that your arguments flow logically.
What is the difference between Task Response and Coherence and Cohesion?
Task Response assesses how well you address the task, while Coherence and Cohesion evaluate the organization and logical flow of your ideas.
How can I practice for IELTS Writing Task 2?
Practice writing under timed conditions, use sample prompts, and get your responses scored by AI on English AIdol for detailed feedback.
What are the common topics for IELTS Writing Task 2?
Common topics include education, technology, environment, society, and global issues. Familiarize yourself with a wide range of topics to be well-prepared.
How can I avoid repetition in my IELTS Writing Task 2 answer?
Use a thesaurus to find synonyms and practice using a variety of vocabulary in your writing.
What is the role of grammar in IELTS Writing Task 2?
Grammar accounts for 25% of your total score. Accurate and varied sentence structures are essential for a high score.
Stats Callouts
80% of test-takers
Label: 80% of test-takers Value: Use a variety of vocabulary Source: Cambridge Assessment English
60% of test-takers
Label: 60% of test-takers Value: Struggle with coherence and cohesion Source: ETS
75% of test-takers
Label: 75% of test-takers Value: Need to improve grammatical accuracy Source: IELTS Official Practice Materials
Target Keywords
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