IELTS Writing Task 2 sample answer (band score 8-9)
IELTS Essay # 1533 - Pay somebody to do things you don't want to do
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IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
It is sometimes possible to pay somebody to do things you don't want to do, or don't have time to do, for example, household chores or looking after children.
Is this a good way of providing work for others?
Should people do these things themselves?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Model Answer 1:
In today's modern and fast-paced world, hiring others to perform tasks like household chores or childcare has become increasingly common. This practice provides employment opportunities for many while enabling individuals to focus on more important aspects of their lives. I firmly believe that paying others to handle time-consuming responsibilities is beneficial, both in terms of creating jobs and improving work-life balance.
Hiring people for household work contributes significantly to employment generation, particularly for individuals with limited formal education and access to decent jobs. Many domestic workers, childcare providers, and cleaners rely on such jobs as their primary source of income. By paying for these services, wealthier households help sustain a sector that offers livelihoods to millions worldwide. For instance, in countries like the UK and the US, domestic work is a major industry that supports migrant workers and local employees alike.
Delegating household responsibilities allows people to focus on their careers, family, and personal well-being. Many professionals work long hours, and handling domestic duties on top of that can lead to stress and exhaustion. Hiring a cleaner or babysitter ensures that individuals can allocate more time to their families or personal growth. For example, busy parents can spend quality time with their children rather than being overwhelmed by chores, leading to stronger family bonds. Moreover, outsourcing routine tasks enables people to pursue hobbies, education, or personal interests. Instead of spending hours on laundry and cleaning, individuals can engage in activities that enrich their lives, such as fitness, learning new skills, or socializing. This, in turn, enhances overall happiness and productivity.
In conclusion, hiring others for household work provides employment and allows individuals to focus on higher priorities. As long as fair wages and working conditions are ensured, this practice is beneficial for both employers and employees.
Sample Answer 2:
In this modern era, where people are looking for work, it is easy to hire people to do our tasks. While paying others to complete tasks like household chores and childcare may seem convenient, it is not necessarily a beneficial practice. Relying on paid help for routine tasks can lead to financial strain, reduced self-sufficiency, and even ethical concerns regarding labour conditions. I firmly believe that individuals should take responsibility for their own household tasks rather than outsourcing them.
Firstly, hiring domestic workers can become a significant financial burden over time. Many middle-income families struggle to afford professional cleaning services, childcare, or meal preparation, yet they still opt for them due to convenience. However, these expenses can accumulate, reducing savings and financial security. For instance, hiring a full-time nanny or housekeeper can cost thousands of dollars annually, which could instead be invested in education or retirement planning.
Additionally, performing household tasks fosters self-reliance and essential life skills. Relying too much on paid workers may result in people losing basic abilities such as cooking, cleaning, or organizing their living spaces. These tasks, though seemingly mundane, contribute to personal discipline and responsibility. For example, children who grow up in households where everything is done for them may struggle to manage their own homes later in life.
Another concern is the ethical implications of hiring domestic help, particularly in regions where labour laws are weak. Many domestic workers are underpaid, overworked, and lack proper legal protections. Cases of exploitation, unfair wages, and poor working conditions are common, especially in developing countries. Instead of perpetuating an industry that sometimes thrives on inequality, people should take responsibility for their own household duties.
In conclusion, while outsourcing domestic tasks may seem convenient, it is often unnecessary and can lead to financial difficulties, loss of essential skills, and labour exploitation. People should strive to manage their own homes, as doing so promotes independence and financial well-being.
Idea Generation for this IELTS Essay:
Essay Question:
It is sometimes possible to pay somebody to do things you don't want to do, or don't have time to do, for example, household chores or looking after children.
Is this a good way of providing work for others?
Should people do these things themselves?
Essay Type: Two-Part Question/ Double Question Essay
The main questions of this IELTS Essay:
A) Is hiring people for household chores and childcare a good way of providing work?
B) Should individuals handle household tasks themselves?
Arguments in Favour of Hiring Domestic Help:
Provides employment opportunities:
By outsourcing household chores, many people, particularly those with lower incomes, can secure stable employment. This allows domestic workers to support their families and improve their living standards. For example, hiring cleaners, nannies, and gardeners creates jobs for people who may not have access to highly skilled employment.
Allows people to focus on career and personal life:
Delegating household tasks enables professionals to dedicate time to their careers, increasing productivity and income potential. It also gives families more time to bond and relax. For example, working parents who hire a babysitter can spend their evenings unwinding with their children instead of worrying about household responsibilities.
Supports efficiency and well-maintained homes:
Trained domestic workers often perform tasks more efficiently and effectively than homeowners. Their expertise ensures cleanliness, order, and proper home management. For instance, professional cleaners use specialized techniques and equipment to maintain a hygienic environment, which homeowners may struggle to do.
Encourages economic growth:
The demand for domestic help supports local economies, leading to increased financial circulation and business growth. Many agencies provide fair wages and legal employment contracts. For example, in countries like the UK, domestic service industries contribute significantly to employment rates and economic stability.
Reduces stress and improves well-being:
Managing both work and household responsibilities can be overwhelming. Outsourcing these tasks helps individuals maintain a better work-life balance and mental health. For instance, busy professionals who hire housekeepers can focus on self-care and personal development without feeling overwhelmed.
Arguments Against Hiring Domestic Help:
Financial burden:
Paying for domestic help can be expensive and unaffordable for many families, leading to unnecessary financial stress. Over time, these costs accumulate, reducing savings and financial security. For example, a family spending £500 per month on housekeeping could invest that amount in long-term savings or education.
Loss of essential life skills:
Regularly outsourcing chores prevents individuals from learning important skills like cooking, cleaning, and managing their household. This over-reliance can be problematic in emergencies. For instance, young adults who grow up with maids may struggle to maintain their homes when living alone.
Risk of labour exploitation:
In some regions, domestic workers face poor wages, excessive working hours, and lack of legal protections. This raises ethical concerns about fair employment practices. For example, many domestic workers in developing countries are underpaid and work in harsh conditions without proper legal protection.
Stronger family bonding when chores are shared:
Completing household tasks together can improve relationships among family members, teaching cooperation and responsibility. For example, children who participate in household chores develop teamwork skills and appreciate the effort involved in maintaining a home.
Encourages personal responsibility and discipline:
Handling one’s own chores instills a sense of responsibility and discipline, which are valuable life skills. It promotes self-sufficiency and independence. For instance, individuals who clean and cook for themselves develop better organizational and time management skills.
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