Plan this discussion essay about economy with the ideas and outline below, write it on a 40-minute timer, then compare it with a band-8 model answer.
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Some people believe that spending money boosts the economy and is good for society. Others think that saving is more responsible.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
GoPrep wrote this practice question in the style of the exam. It is not an official IELTS question.
Pick two or three points from one or both columns. You do not need all of them, and your own examples score better than memorised ones.
Spend the first few minutes planning, then write.
0 words of 250 minimum
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Write your own answer first, then compare: how it answers the exact question, what each paragraph does, and which phrases you could borrow.
Some people believe that spending money is good for society because it stimulates the economy, while others think saving is more responsible. I believe that both are necessary, but individuals should prioritise saving.
Supporters of spending argue that consumption drives economic growth. When people buy goods and services, businesses earn revenue, hire more staff and pay taxes, which supports public services. During a recession, governments often encourage spending for this reason, and if everyone saved at once, shops would close and unemployment would rise. Spending on education, health and experiences can also improve the quality of life.
However, saving is the more responsible choice for individuals and also benefits the economy over time. Savings give households security against unexpected events such as illness or job loss, which prevents them from falling into debt. People who save can afford major goals, like buying a house or paying for retirement, without relying on the state. Savings also deposited in banks are lent to businesses and individuals, providing the capital needed for investment in new factories and technologies. Countries with a high saving rate, such as Germany and Singapore, have enjoyed stable growth and strong financial resilience. In contrast, societies where people spend beyond their means often suffer from household debt crises, as happened in the United States before 2008.
The ideal approach is balance. People should spend sensibly on what they need and value, but they should also set aside a portion of their income regularly.
In conclusion, spending keeps the economy moving, while saving provides security and funds investment. I believe individuals should save as a priority, and governments can encourage spending when the economy needs a boost.
| Phrase | Meaning |
|---|---|
| consumer spending | money spent by buyers |
| savings account | bank account for saving |
| rainy-day fund | money saved for emergencies |
| economic stimulus | action that boosts the economy |
| thrift | careful use of money |
| financial planning | organising money for the future |
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