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IELTS Writing Task 2 – Advantages & Disadvantages: Globalisation

Practise weighing the benefits and drawbacks of a phenomenon, then forming a balanced or one-sided conclusion based on the evidence.

What is an Advantages & Disadvantages Essay?

This essay type requires you to examine the positive and negative aspects of a given phenomenon or trend. Depending on the exact wording, you may also need to give your own view on whether the advantages outweigh the disadvantages.

Intro
Paraphrase the question. If asked for your opinion, state it here. If not, simply introduce both sides.
Body 1
Discuss the advantages — two well-developed points with examples.
Body 2
Discuss the disadvantages — two well-developed points with examples.
Avoid
Do not just list advantages and disadvantages — develop each point fully. Do not mix advantages and disadvantages in the same paragraph.

Writing structure

Paragraph 1: Introduction — paraphrase + your overall view (if asked).
Paragraph 2: Body 1 — advantages, each explained with an example or reasoning.
Paragraph 3: Body 2 — disadvantages, each explained with an example or reasoning.
Paragraph 4: Conclusion — weigh up and restate your overall verdict.
Key phrases: One significant advantage is… / A further benefit is… / However, a major drawback is… / On the negative side… / On balance… / The advantages appear to outweigh… / Despite these benefits…

Guided example

Example question: Many people now live and work in countries other than their own. Do the advantages of this trend outweigh the disadvantages?

Model structure

Introduction: International migration for work and lifestyle has increased dramatically in recent decades. While this trend brings considerable individual and economic benefits, it also raises concerns about cultural identity and social cohesion. On balance, I believe the advantages are greater.

Body 1 (Advantages): The most obvious advantage is economic: migrants often fill skills gaps in host countries, boosting productivity. Countries like the UAE and Singapore have built globally competitive economies partly through skilled international workforces. For the migrants themselves, higher wages allow them to support families in their home countries through remittances.

Body 2 (Disadvantages): Nevertheless, there are drawbacks. Host communities may experience cultural friction when large numbers of newcomers arrive rapidly, placing pressure on housing and public services. Meanwhile, source countries risk losing their most talented citizens — a phenomenon known as brain drain — which can hamper local development.

Conclusion: In conclusion, while international migration can strain public resources and cause cultural tension, its economic and personal benefits are substantial. With well-managed immigration policies, the advantages clearly outweigh the disadvantages.

Practice Advantages & Disadvantages Essay

Task: Globalisation has made the world more interconnected. Do the advantages of globalisation outweigh the disadvantages?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.
Word count: 0

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