As demographic structures shift dramatically across the globe, many developed and developing countries are simultaneously confronting the dual pressures of a shrinking labor force and a rising old-age dependency ratio. One perspective argues that governments should prioritize their limited fiscal resources toward policies that extend the retirement age and encourage immigration to sustain economic vitality; another voice warns, however, that such an approach may neglect the medical care and social dignity of the elderly, potentially triggering a crisis of intergenerational equity. Discuss both positions and propose how governments should balance economic sustainability with social well-being, using specific country or regional examples to support your argument.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Band Descriptors
Task Response: Address all parts of the task, present a clear position, support ideas with evidence
Coherence and Cohesion: Logical paragraphing, clear progression, appropriate linking devices
Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary, accurate and natural collocations
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Variety of sentence structures, error-free grammar
Overall band score is 0-9, each criterion weighted equally.
Answering Tips
Spend 5 minutes planning your position and main arguments
Use the structure: Introduction - Body 1 - Body 2 - Concession - Conclusion
Develop each body paragraph with: topic sentence + explanation + example + summary
Use a variety of linking words, avoid repetition
Reserve 5 minutes at the end to check grammar and spelling