Simon’s ielts writing task 2

 
Wednesday, July 20, 2016 
IELTS Writing Task 2: 'economic progress' essay 
Here's the full essay that I wrote with my students for the question below. 

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Compiled by Diyorbek Hayitmurodov ielts-simon.com Page 154 
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.
 
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
People have different views about how governments should measure their countries’ progress. While 
economic progress is of course essential, I agree with those who believe that other measures of 
progress are just as important. 
There are three key reasons why economic growth is seen as a fundamental goal for countries. 
Firstly, a healthy economy results in job creation, a high level of employment, and better salaries for 
all citizens. Secondly, economic progress ensures that more money is available for governments to 
spend on infrastructure and public services. For example, a government with higher revenues can 
invest in the country's transport network, its education system and its hospitals. Finally, a strong 
economy can help a country’s standing on the global stage, in terms of its political influence and 
trading power. 
However, I would argue that various other forms of progress are just as significant as the economic 
factors mentioned above. In particular, we should consider the area of social justice, human rights, 
equality and democracy itself. For example, the treatment of minority groups is often seen as a 
reflection of the moral standards and level of development of a society. Perhaps another key 
consideration when judging the progress of a modern country should be how well that country 
protects the natural environment, and whether it is moving towards environmental sustainability. 
Alternatively, the success of a nation could be measured by looking at the health, well-being and 
happiness of its residents. 
In conclusion, the economy is obviously a key marker of a country’s success, but social, 
environmental and health criteria are equally significant. 
(262 words, band 9)