In many countries, people are now living longer than ever before. Some people say an ageing population creates problems for governments. Other people think there are benefits if society has more elderly people. To what extent do the advantages of having an ageing population outweigh the disadvantages?

It has become increasingly common today for individuals to live longer than they did in past
generations
.
Although
many point out that
aging
Change the spelling
ageing
show examples
populations hinder a nation economically, I would argue that the benefits for society as a whole overshadow these perceived drawbacks. The main reason that many fixate on the negatives associated with an ageing
population
relates to the financial implications. Governments and companies must both take into account the age of their
population
and plan
accordingly
.
For instance
, Japan has a famously old
population
that requires the government to make budgetary allowances for better healthcare and shortages in the
labor
Change the spelling
labour
show examples
force. The economy more generally in Japan must overcome a shrinking consumer market as young people are more likely to shop, travel, and spend freely.
This
same situation applies to varying degrees in nearly every country around the world at different moments in their history.
However
, the economic effects of an ageing
population
are less important than the value of older
generations
. In most societies globally, young people are more progressive and push society forward. Older
generations
typically serve as a stabilizing ballast that keeps forward momentum from becoming too chaotic.
This
can take the form of advice given by elders within families to young people or more broadly across the entire political spectrum of a country.
Although
this
conservatism can feel limiting to younger
generations
at
first,
most would admit as they get older that the influence of more experienced and wiser family members was generally positive on an individual and societal level. In conclusion, despite the economic repercussions of older
population
demographics, I believe that the less tangible benefits for families make
this
a positive development. Naturally, there are legitimate downsides that must be collectively managed by governments and individuals alike.
Submitted by viktoria.popova92 on

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task response
In the introduction, while you have presented a clear thesis, slightly more detail regarding what the essay will cover could provide even better clarity.
coherence and cohesion
Ensure that the topic sentences clearly state the main idea of each paragraph. This will guide the reader better through your argument.
task response
Using a few more specific examples when discussing the advantages and disadvantages of an ageing population would enhance your argument and make it more convincing.
task response
You have provided a thoughtful introduction and conclusion that bookend the essay nicely.
coherence and cohesion
The logical structure of your essay is clear and easy to follow.
task response
Your main points are well-supported overall, and the argument you present is coherent and consistent.

Fully explain your ideas

To get an excellent score in the IELTS Task 2 writing section, one of the easiest and most effective tips is structuring your writing in the most solid format. A great argument essay structure may be divided to four paragraphs, in which comprises of four sentences (excluding the conclusion paragraph, which comprises of three sentences).

For we to consider an essay structure a great one, it should be looking like this:

  • Paragraph 1 - Introduction
    • Sentence 1 - Background statement
    • Sentence 2 - Detailed background statement
    • Sentence 3 - Thesis
    • Sentence 4 - Outline sentence
  • Paragraph 2 - First supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 3 - Second supporting paragraph
    • Sentence 1 - Topic sentence
    • Sentence 2 - Example
    • Sentence 3 - Discussion
    • Sentence 4 - Conclusion
  • Paragraph 4 - Conclusion
    • Sentence 1 - Summary
    • Sentence 2 - Restatement of thesis
    • Sentence 3 - Prediction or recommendation

Our recommended essay structure above comprises of fifteen (15) sentences, which will make your essay approximately 250 to 275 words.

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Topic Vocabulary:
  • ageing population
  • benefits
  • disadvantages
  • advantages
  • experience
  • knowledge
  • contribution
  • economy
  • society
  • healthcare
  • youth employment
  • community
  • intergenerational support
  • volunteerism
  • mentorship
  • increased demand
  • pension costs
  • social welfare systems
  • workforce
  • productivity
  • intergenerational conflict
  • technological adaptability
  • dependency
  • effective
  • skill development
  • employment opportunities
  • intergenerational solidarity
  • communication
  • lifelong learning
  • technological literacy
  • age-friendly
  • social policies
  • infrastructure
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