Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - IELTS Writing Task 2

In the IELTS writing task 2, one common essay type is the Direct Question Essay, also known as a “double question” or “two-part question” essay. As the name suggests, this type presents two clear, specific questions that you must address in your response. A well-structured answer should be at least 250 words, with your grammar, vocabulary, coherence, and task response all contributing to your final band score.

Let’s explore how to approach a two-part/ direct question essay using the topic: "Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work." Below is a sample essay that demonstrates how to develop strong ideas and structure your response effectively.

Learn how to write the perfect IELTS essay introduction for a Band 9 score with the guide below!

Question

Structure Breakdown

Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - Sample Answer 1

There has been an ongoing trend of many young people from prosperous nations deciding to spend their time doing voluntary work in underprivileged countries. Some of the prominent reasons for this phenomenon will be discussed before the benefits of both individuals and developing countries are analyzed.

There are several convincing reasons associated with this practice. The most significant factor is that doing such unpaid work in poor countries would be a comparative advantage for the young when applying for a job in the future. In other words, in this fierce and competitive job market, a candidate possessing an application file accompanied by only great scores could not be the ideal one that a recruiter is finding; therefore, he or she needs outstanding volunteering experience to be able to compete with other rivals. Another reason that is worth mentioning is that young generations could engender the feeling of community when participating in unpaid work. Their voluntary efforts help to give prominence to the value of sharing and the sense of social responsibility to secure improved humanity and international awareness about disadvantaged places.

It is undoubted that both the young volunteers and underdeveloped or developing countries could equally gain from this phenomenon. Regarding the young, it is apparent that the aforementioned meaningful work not only brings the volunteers unforgettable life lessons, gives them hands–on experience but also helps expand their network of relationships. As a result, they gradually grow more mature and confident, realizing the diversity of life by getting to know many walks of people. In regard to poorer countries, they may have a chance to raise the living standards of their dwellers. For instance, knowledge related to environmental protection or health care which they have acquired from overseas volunteers possibly improves their living conditions afterwards.

To sum up, the requirement of a more competitive profile and the determination to support financially disadvantaged countries are the two principal elements that make young people join a wide range of voluntary activities. I would contend that both the volunteers and the community are the beneficiaries of the practice above.

Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - Sample Answer 2

In recent years, many young individuals from affluent countries have chosen to engage in short-term unpaid work in underprivileged nations, including teaching or helping with construction. This essay will explore the reasons behind this trend and argue that, although both sides benefit, the young volunteers gain more from the experience.

One key reason for this trend is the growing popularity of voluntourism, where young people combine travel with volunteer work. This allows them to experience new cultures while also contributing to meaningful causes. Additionally, many universities and employers now value international volunteering as a way to demonstrate leadership, social responsibility, and adaptability. These motivations drive students and recent graduates to participate in short-term volunteer projects abroad.

Although the host communities do benefit from this assistance—through improved infrastructure or educational support—the young volunteers arguably gain more. These experiences help them develop crucial life skills, broaden their worldviews, and build their resumes. Furthermore, exposure to different cultures and socio-economic challenges often makes them more empathetic and socially aware individuals. In contrast, the help given to local communities is often temporary and limited in impact.

In conclusion, while the communities in poorer countries certainly gain some benefits from the contributions of young foreign volunteers, it is the young people themselves who benefit more in terms of personal growth and future opportunities.

Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - Sample Answer 3

A growing number of young people from wealthy nations are spending brief periods volunteering in developing countries, engaging in activities like teaching and community building. This essay will examine the reasons behind this trend and argue that the young individuals themselves benefit more than the communities they serve.

Several factors contribute to this increasing trend. Firstly, globalization has made travel more accessible, and many youths are eager to explore the world and make a difference. Secondly, there is rising awareness about global inequality and a desire among youth to contribute positively. Finally, educational institutions often encourage volunteer work as part of personal development, and such experiences add value to college and job applications.

While the local communities receive help in the form of manpower and resources, the long-term benefits for them may be limited due to the short duration of these projects. In contrast, young volunteers often return home with new perspectives, greater maturity, and improved communication and problem-solving skills. These personal and professional gains are long-lasting and frequently transformative, indicating that the volunteers benefit more in the long run.

To conclude, the trend of short-term volunteer work among youth from developed countries is driven by both altruism and self-development goals. While communities receive short-term help, it is ultimately the young people who gain the most from these enriching experiences.

Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - IELTS Vocabulary

Have a look at the IELTS Vocabulary used in the sample answers for ‘Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - IELTS Writing Task 2’.

Affluent

• Meaning: Wealthy; having a lot of money
• Eg: Young people from affluent countries often volunteer abroad.

Underprivileged

• Meaning: Lacking basic necessities or advantages of life
• Eg: Many underprivileged communities lack access to education.

Voluntourism

• Meaning: A combination of volunteering and tourism
• Eg: Voluntourism has become increasingly popular among students.

Social responsibility

• Meaning: The idea that individuals should contribute to society
• Eg: Volunteering shows a sense of social responsibility.

Broaden their worldview

• Meaning: To expand one’s understanding of different cultures and global issues
• Eg: Travel and volunteering help broaden their worldview.

Socio-economic

• Meaning: Related to both social and economic factors
• Eg: Exposure to socio-economic issues can inspire long-term change.

Manpower

• Meaning: Human physical effort or workers
• Eg: Communities benefit from the additional manpower provided by volunteers.

Transformative

• Meaning: Causing a major change
• Eg: The experience was transformative for the young volunteers.

Altruism

• Meaning: Selfless concern for others
• Eg: While altruism plays a role, personal growth is a major motivator.

Long-lasting

• Meaning: Continuing for a long time
• Eg: The personal development gained is often long-lasting.

Young People from Wealthy Countries are Spending a Short Time Doing Unpaid Work - Connectors Used

Connectors, also known as connectives or transition words, are words or phrases that link ideas or parts of a sentence or paragraph together. Here are some of the connectors used in the above sample answers:

• In recent years
• This essay will explore
• One key reason
• Additionally
• Although
• In contrast
• In conclusion
• While
• Firstly / Secondly / Finally
• To conclude

By understanding the structure of a direct question essay and analysing a well-written sample, you can learn how to effectively present your ideas, address both parts of the question, and use clear language. Mastering this format is key to achieving your desired IELTS Band Score in IELTS Writing Task 2.

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