IELTS.international
Discussionacademic·2023

In many countries, a small number of people earn extremely high salaries. Some people believe that this is good for the country, but others think that governments should not allow salaries above a certain level. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

For this discussion essay, dedicate one full body paragraph to each of the opposing views presented in the question. Ensure you thoroughly explore the arguments for why high salaries might be good for a country in one paragraph, and then dedicate a separate, equally developed paragraph to the arguments for why governments should limit them. Avoid being too one-sided in your body paragraphs, as this will undermine the "discuss both views" requirement before you present your own opinion in the conclusion.

2

When discussing the benefits of high salaries, consider mentioning how they attract top global talent and foster innovation, citing examples like the tech industry in Silicon Valley, where lucrative compensation drives groundbreaking advancements. Conversely, when arguing for salary caps, you could refer to the widening income disparity seen in many Western economies, leading to social unrest or a perception of unfairness, and contrast this with more egalitarian models in Nordic countries.

3

A common mistake students make on this question is to focus excessively on the moral or ethical implications of high salaries without sufficiently linking their arguments back to the economic and societal impact on the country as a whole. To avoid this, ensure every point you make, whether positive or negative, is explicitly connected to how it affects national prosperity, social cohesion, or economic stability, rather than just personal fairness.

4

To effectively transition between the two opposing views, employ clear linking phrases at the start of your body paragraphs. For instance, after discussing the benefits, you could begin the next paragraph with "Conversely, a strong counter-argument posits that..." or "While some advocate for the merits of high remuneration, others contend that...". Within paragraphs, use phrases like "Furthermore," or "However," to build or contrast points smoothly.

5

For a band 8-9 answer, examiners look for a nuanced and sophisticated discussion that avoids oversimplification. This means presenting well-developed arguments for both sides, supported by specific examples or logical reasoning, and demonstrating a clear understanding of complex economic and social dynamics. Your personal opinion in the conclusion must be clearly stated and logically derived from the preceding discussion, showcasing a mature and well-reasoned perspective.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Show mastery by presenting both sides fairly and establishing your stance.

  • Demonstrate understanding of BOTH perspectives — this shows critical thinking
  • State which side you lean toward — even if you're discussing both equally
  • Maintain neutral, academic tone — avoid emotional language or bias

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

There are differing opinions on whether...While some people believe that..., others argue that...This essay will examine both perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
2
Body Paragraph 1 — First Viewpoint

Present one side with respect and credibility.

  • Even if you disagree, present this view authentically with real examples
  • Use academic reporting language: 'Research indicates...', 'Studies show...', 'Experts argue...'
  • Acknowledge strengths — this demonstrates balanced analysis and earns marks

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the one hand, supporters of this view argue that...Those in favour point out that...A key argument for this position is...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Opposing Viewpoint

Present the counter-argument with equal depth and sophistication.

  • Match the structure and depth of paragraph 1 — examiners compare them
  • Use contrasting transition words: 'Conversely', 'In contrast', 'On the other hand'
  • If you have an opinion, make this paragraph slightly stronger — but stay fair

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the other hand, critics contend that...However, there is a strong counter-argument...Conversely, many people feel that...
4
Conclusion

Synthesize both views and deliver your decisive judgment.

  • Acknowledge validity of both sides — this shows intellectual maturity
  • State your preference clearly and confidently — don't hedge or waffle
  • Take a firm position — examiners reward clarity over fence-sitting

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, while both sides have merit, I believe that...Having considered both arguments, it seems that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

income disparityThe unequal distribution of income within a population.
wealth redistributionThe practice of reallocating wealth from richer to poorer individuals or groups, often through taxation and social welfare programs.
economic stimulusGovernment actions designed to encourage economic activity, often through spending or tax cuts.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be madeA phrase used to introduce a strong and convincing point.
this notion is predicated onThis idea or concept is based on or depends on.
from my perspectiveA phrase used to introduce one's personal opinion or viewpoint.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsA phrase used to indicate that there is a large amount of strong proof supporting a particular point.
notwithstandingDespite; in spite of.
it could be argued thatA phrase used to introduce a possible argument or interpretation, often to present a nuanced view.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

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