IELTS Band 9 Essay About Some people think that having a set retirement age
Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “Some people think that having a set retirement age”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.
Sample Essay (Band 9):
Some people think that having a set retirement age (e.g. 65 years) for everybody, regardless of occupation, is unfair. They believe that certain workers deserve to retire and receive at an earlier age.
Do you agree or disagree?
Which types of workers do you think should benefit from early retirement?
The issue of whether a fixed retirement age should be applied universally or adjusted based on occupation is a contentious topic. While some argue that a standard retirement age ensures equality and simplifies pension systems, I firmly believe that certain professions warrant early retirement due to the physically demanding or mentally exhausting nature of their work. This approach would not only promote fairness but also enhance the overall well-being of workers.
Firstly, occupations that involve manual labor or hazardous conditions, such as construction workers, miners, or firefighters, should be eligible for early retirement. These jobs often lead to chronic health issues or physical deterioration over time, making it unreasonable to expect workers to continue until the age of 65. For instance, a firefighter who has spent decades in life-threatening situations may suffer from respiratory problems or joint injuries, rendering them unable to perform their duties effectively. Allowing such individuals to retire earlier would acknowledge their sacrifices and provide them with the opportunity to enjoy their later years in good health.
Similarly, professions that require high levels of mental acuity or emotional resilience, such as healthcare workers or teachers, should also be considered for early retirement. The psychological toll of dealing with patients or managing classrooms can lead to burnout, reducing their ability to perform optimally. By permitting early retirement, these workers can avoid the detrimental effects of prolonged stress and maintain a better quality of life.
However, it is essential to implement a balanced approach to avoid overburdening pension systems. Governments could introduce occupation-specific assessments to determine eligibility for early retirement, ensuring that only those who genuinely need it benefit. This would prevent exploitation of the system while addressing the unique challenges faced by different professions.
In conclusion, I strongly advocate for a flexible retirement policy that considers the inherent demands of various occupations. By allowing workers in physically or mentally taxing roles to retire earlier, society can demonstrate compassion and fairness, ultimately fostering a more equitable and sustainable workforce.
5 Academic Vocabulary in the sample of Some people think that having a set retirement age
- Contentious (/kənˈtenʃəs/)
- Meaning: Causing or likely to cause disagreement.
- Example: The issue of climate change is highly contentious among policymakers.
- Equality (/ɪˈkwɒlɪti/)
- Meaning: The state of being equal, especially in status, rights, or opportunities.
- Example: Many countries strive to achieve equality in education and employment.
- Physically demanding (/ˈfɪzɪkli dɪˈmɑːndɪŋ/)
- Meaning: Requiring significant physical effort or strength.
- Example: Jobs like construction are often physically demanding and can lead to early fatigue.
- Chronic health issues (/ˈkrɒnɪk hɛlθ ˈɪʃuːz/)
- Meaning: Long-term medical conditions that persist over time.
- Example: Workers in hazardous environments often suffer from chronic health issues due to prolonged exposure to risks.
- Psychological toll (/ˌsaɪkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl təʊl/)
- Meaning: The mental or emotional impact of a stressful situation.
- Example: The psychological toll of caring for critically ill patients can lead to burnout among healthcare workers.
5 Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Role in Achieving a High Band Score:
- Conditional Sentences (If-Clauses)
- Example: “If governments introduce occupation-specific assessments, they can prevent exploitation of the system.”
- Role: Demonstrates the ability to discuss hypothetical situations, which is essential for Task 2 essays.
- Relative Clauses
- Example: “Workers who are exposed to hazardous conditions often suffer from chronic health issues.”
- Role: Adds complexity to sentences and provides detailed information, enhancing coherence and cohesion.
- Passive Voice
- Example: “Early retirement should be granted to those in physically demanding roles.”
- Role: Shifts focus to the action rather than the subject, making the argument more formal and objective.
- Comparative Structures
- Example: “Allowing early retirement is more equitable than enforcing a fixed retirement age.”
- Role: Highlights contrasts and comparisons, which are crucial for developing arguments effectively.
- Cleft Sentences
- Example: “It is the physically demanding nature of these jobs that justifies early retirement.”
- Role: Emphasizes specific points, making the argument more persuasive and engaging.
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