IELTS Reading 57: Wealth inequality and its consequences

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IELTS Reading: Wealth inequality and its consequences

Wealth inequality refers to the uneven distribution of assets among individuals in a society. This phenomenon has become increasingly pronounced in recent decades, with the gap between the rich and the poor widening significantly in many parts of the world. Several factors contribute to wealth inequality, including differences in income, education, and access to opportunities.

One of the primary drivers of wealth inequality is the disparity in income. Individuals with higher-paying jobs, often in sectors such as technology or finance, accumulate wealth at a much faster rate than those in lower-paying positions. This income gap is exacerbated by the rising cost of living, which disproportionately affects lower-income families. As a result, they find it challenging to save and invest in their future, perpetuating a cycle of poverty.

Education plays a crucial role in determining an individual’s earning potential. Those with access to quality education are more likely to secure high-paying jobs. In contrast, individuals from disadvantaged backgrounds often attend underfunded schools, limiting their opportunities for advancement. This educational divide not only affects personal income but also contributes to broader societal inequalities.

The consequences of wealth inequality are far-reaching. Economically, societies with high levels of inequality tend to experience slower growth. When wealth is concentrated in the hands of a few, there is less spending power among the general population, which can hinder economic expansion. Furthermore, wealth inequality can lead to social unrest, as those who feel marginalized may express their frustrations through protests or other forms of dissent.

Additionally, wealth inequality has significant implications for health outcomes. Research indicates that individuals in wealthier households generally have better access to healthcare services, nutritious food, and safe living conditions. In contrast, those from lower-income backgrounds often struggle with health issues exacerbated by stress, poor nutrition, and limited access to medical care. This disparity in health can perpetuate the cycle of poverty, as individuals who are unhealthy are less able to work or pursue educational opportunities.

Finally, wealth inequality poses challenges to democracy. When a small number of individuals or corporations hold significant wealth, they can exert disproportionate influence over political processes and policies. This can lead to legislation that favors the wealthy at the expense of the broader population, undermining the principles of equality and fairness that are fundamental to democratic societies.

In conclusion, wealth inequality is a complex issue with deep-rooted causes and significant consequences. Addressing this challenge requires comprehensive policies that promote equal access to education, fair wages, and healthcare. Only through concerted efforts can societies hope to bridge the wealth gap and create a more equitable future for all citizens.

Questions

1. Multiple Choice

Choose the correct answer from the options A, B, C, or D.

1. What is one of the main drivers of wealth inequality? A. Economic growth
   B. Differences in education
   C. Access to technology
   D. Social mobility
2. According to the passage, how does wealth inequality affect economic growth? A. It has no impact
   B. It slows down economic growth
   C. It speeds up economic growth
   D. It creates more job opportunities

2. True/False/Not Given

Determine whether the statements are True, False, or Not Given based on the passage.

1. Wealth inequality has been decreasing in recent decades.
2. People with higher incomes have better access to healthcare services.
3. The gap between rich and poor is mainly caused by poor education.

3. Yes/No/Not Given

Indicate whether the following statements are Yes, No, or Not Given in relation to the author’s opinion.

1. The author believes that wealth inequality is a serious problem in society.
2. Education is irrelevant to wealth accumulation according to the passage.
3. Wealth inequality can lead to social unrest.

4. Matching Information

Match the statements below with the appropriate paragraphs in the passage.

1. The relationship between education and earning potential.
2. The effects of wealth inequality on health outcomes.
3. Factors contributing to wealth inequality.

5. Matching Headings

Choose the most suitable heading for each paragraph from the list below.

1. Paragraph 1:
2. Paragraph 2:
3. Paragraph 3:
4. Paragraph 4:
5. Paragraph 5:

6. Matching Sentence Endings

Complete the sentences by matching them with the correct endings.

1. Individuals in lower-income households often struggle because…
2. Wealth inequality can lead to…
3. High levels of inequality tend to result in…

7. Sentence Completion

Complete the following sentences with appropriate words or phrases from the passage.

1. Wealth inequality refers to the uneven distribution of __________ among individuals.
2. Access to quality education is crucial for determining an individual’s __________.

8. Summary Completion

Complete the summary below using words or phrases from the passage. Wealth inequality can have significant consequences for __________, including slower economic growth and __________ health outcomes.

9. Diagram Label Completion

Label the diagram based on the information from the passage about the causes and effects of wealth inequality.

10. Short Answer Questions

Answer the following questions based on the information in the passage.

1. What are two factors that contribute to wealth inequality?
2. How does wealth inequality affect health outcomes?

11. Table/Flowchart/Note Completion

Complete the table below with information from the passage regarding the consequences of wealth inequality.

Đáp án

1. Multiple Choice

1. B. Differences in education
2. B. It slows down economic growth

2. True/False/Not Given

1. False
2. True
3. Not Given

3. Yes/No/Not Given

1. Yes
2. No
3. Yes

4. Matching Information

1. The relationship between education and earning potential. – Paragraph 2
2. The effects of wealth inequality on health outcomes. – Paragraph 4
3. Factors contributing to wealth inequality. – Paragraph 1

5. Matching Headings

1. Paragraph 1: Overview of Wealth Inequality
2. Paragraph 2: Income Disparity as a Major Factor
3. Paragraph 3: The Role of Education
4. Paragraph 4: Health Outcomes of Wealth Inequality
5. Paragraph 5: Implications for Democracy

6. Matching Sentence Endings

1. Individuals in lower-income households often struggle because… they find it challenging to save and invest in their future.
2. Wealth inequality can lead to… social unrest.
3. High levels of inequality tend to result in… slower economic growth.

7. Sentence Completion

1. Wealth inequality refers to the uneven distribution of assets among individuals.
2. Access to quality education is crucial for determining an individual’s earning potential.

8. Summary Completion

Wealth inequality can have significant consequences for economies, including slower economic growth and poor health outcomes.

9. Diagram Label Completion

(Responses will vary based on the diagram provided; ensure the diagram includes aspects such as causes like “income disparity,” “education access,” and effects like “economic slowdown,” “health disparities,” etc.)

10. Short Answer Questions

1. What are two factors that contribute to wealth inequality?
   • Differences in income and access to quality education.
2. How does wealth inequality affect health outcomes?
   • It leads to poorer health outcomes for individuals in lower-income households due to limited access to healthcare services and nutritious food.

11. Table/Flowchart/Note Completion