IELTS Writing Task 2/ IELTS Essay:
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Write about the following topic:
Many people believe that individuals over 65 should not be allowed to continue working.
Others think that people should be allowed to work for as long as they choose. Discuss both 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.
Sample Answer 1:
In today’s world, the question of whether individuals over the age of 65 should be permitted to continue working is a subject of debate. While some argue that retirement should be mandatory at this age, others believe that people should have the freedom to work for as long as they desire. In this essay, I will explore both viewpoints and present my own perspective on this matter.
On one hand, there are valid arguments in favor of mandatory retirement at 65. Firstly, it is believed that older individuals may not be as productive or efficient as younger workers due to declining physical and mental faculties. For instance, physically demanding jobs may become increasingly challenging for seniors, which could affect overall productivity. Secondly, mandatory retirement can create more job opportunities for younger generations, reducing unemployment rates. This can lead to a healthier job market and better career prospects for youth.
On the other hand, there are compelling reasons to support the idea of allowing people to work as long as they wish. Firstly, some seniors may still possess valuable skills and expertise that can benefit their employers and society. For instance, a seasoned professional with decades of experience can provide valuable mentorship to younger colleagues. Secondly, many people find fulfillment and purpose in their work, and forcing them into retirement may negatively impact their mental and emotional well-being.
In my opinion, there should not be a strict age limit for retirement. Instead, the decision should be based on individual capabilities and desires. Some people may want to retire early, while others may wish to continue working. Employers should evaluate employees based on their performance and ability to contribute rather than their age.
In conclusion, the question of whether individuals over 65 should be allowed to continue working is a complex one. While there are arguments for both sides, I believe that age should not be the sole determinant of retirement. People should have the freedom to choose when they retire, provided they are capable and willing to work. This approach can lead to a more inclusive and productive workforce while respecting the individual choices and contributions of seniors.
Sample Answer 2:
In today’s world, the topic of whether individuals aged 65 and above should be allowed to continue working or not is a matter of debate. Some argue that there should be an age limit for working, while others believe that people should have the freedom to work for as long as they wish. In this essay, I will explore both perspectives and present my own opinion on this matter.
On one hand, those who advocate for a retirement age argue that it is essential to make way for younger generations in the workforce. They believe that older individuals may be less productive, and by retiring, they can create job opportunities for the younger workforce, reducing unemployment rates. Moreover, it is argued that older employees may require more healthcare benefits and could contribute to a strain on pension systems.
On the other hand, supporters of allowing individuals to work as long as they choose emphasize the benefits of experience and wisdom that older employees bring to the workplace. They argue that age should not be a determining factor for employment, and skills and competence should be the main criteria for hiring or retaining workers. Furthermore, many people over 65 wish to continue working not only for financial reasons but also for the sense of purpose and social interaction that a job provides.
In my opinion, there should not be a strict retirement age. Instead, the decision to continue working should be based on an individual’s capabilities and desires. Age discrimination in the workplace should be discouraged, and employers should provide equal opportunities to all age groups. However, certain jobs that demand physical fitness and stamina may require age restrictions for safety reasons.
In conclusion, the debate over whether people over 65 should be allowed to continue working is complex. While there are valid arguments on both sides, I believe that individuals should have the freedom to choose whether they want to work beyond the age of 65, as long as they are physically and mentally capable of doing so. This approach promotes inclusivity and values the contributions of older individuals in the workforce.