37. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. 

Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer 1

Band 8.5

There is little doubt that the past 15 years have witnessed a substantial increase in athlete income, surpassing the earnings of the preceding 50 years. The debate surrounding the appropriateness of this rise often pits the merits of increasing athlete pay against the perspectives of other essential professionals. This essay aims to delve into each of these viewpoints.

Certainly, there are compelling reasons to generously reward athletes. Their remarkable ability to perform under the scrutiny of cameras sets them apart, showcasing fearlessness and unwavering determination. Furthermore, their exceptional skills not only bring them personal recognition but also contribute to national pride, amassing a significant fan following that renders them effective brand ambassadors for marketing new products. A survey by the Times of India reveals that 70% of advertising companies prefer employing sports figures for promotions, citing their pleasant and calm demeanor, as well as their ability to excel under pressure.

Conversely, certain professions, such as teachers and doctors, play indispensable roles in the well-being of society. Teachers not only impart knowledge but also shape positive behaviors in children, contributing significantly to the future. Similarly, doctors dedicate themselves to saving lives, often prioritizing the well-being of others over their own health. The magnitude of their contributions warrants consideration and compensation reflective of their tireless efforts.

In conclusion, while acknowledging the exceptional contributions of athletes, I believe it is imperative for the government to raise the salaries of other professionals. Teachers and doctors, among others, make invaluable daily contributions to society, often sacrificing personal well-being for the greater good. Recognizing and compensating these essential professionals generously is a step toward fostering a society that values and supports all its contributors. 

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Substantial increase (phrase): A significant or considerable rise.

Example: There has been a substantial increase in online shopping since the pandemic began.

Scrutiny (noun): Close examination or inspection.

Example: The athlete's performance is under intense scrutiny by the media.

Wavering (adjective): Lacking in steadiness or firmness; uncertain.

Example: Despite the pressure, the athlete showed unwavering determination.

Brand ambassadors (phrase): People who represent a brand and promote its products or services.

Example: Many celebrities are popular brand ambassadors for various companies.

Indispensable (adjective): Absolutely necessary; essential.

Example: Teachers play an indispensable role in society.

Impart (verb): To give or bestow knowledge or information.

Example: Teachers impart knowledge to their students.

Magnitude (noun): The size or extent of something.

Example: The magnitude of the doctor's contribution to his patients' lives is immense.

Tireless (adjective): Never tiring or becoming weary.

Example: Nurses are known for their tireless work ethic.

Imperative (adjective): Absolutely necessary; essential.

Example: It is imperative to take action now to combat climate change.

Invaluable (adjective): Having great worth or importance, especially because it cannot be easily replaced.

Example: The work of firefighters is invaluable to our communities.

37. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. 

Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer 2

Band 8.5

Significant differences in earnings between successful sports professionals and those in other significant professions have prompted debates about the fairness of such disparities. While some argue that the high salaries of professional athletes are completely justifiable, others believe that they are unfair. Both viewpoints have merit, but I lean towards the position that the current income disparity is disproportionate and calls for a more equitable distribution of wealth.
Those who believe that the high salaries of sports professionals are justifiable argue that their salaries reflect the value they contribute to society. Ticket sales, broadcasting rights, sponsorships, and merchandise sales generate significant revenue for professional sports, especially in popular disciplines. Successful athletes become influential figures, attracting followers and stimulating economic activity within their respective sports. The high salaries are compensation for their exceptional abilities, hard work, and commitment, as well as the entertainment they provide to millions of people around the globe. The proponents of this view believe that the market forces of supply and demand determine earnings and that athletes are entitled to their lucrative salaries.
On the other hand, critics assert that the enormous income gap between sports professionals and those in other significant professions is unfair. They argue that occupations such as healthcare workers, educators, scientists, and social workers contribute significantly to the well-being and growth of society. These professionals frequently work lengthy hours, bear a great deal of responsibility, and have a substantial impact on the lives of others. However, their salaries diminish in comparison to those of athletes. Critics emphasise the need for a more equitable distribution of resources to ensure that essential services are appropriately valued and compensated.

Although the market-driven nature of sports salaries can partially justify the high earnings, I believe it is essential to address the issue of equity. It is essential to recognise and adequately compensate those in other significant professions who contribute substantially to the welfare of society. A more equitable distribution of wealth could involve investigating ways to redirect a portion of sports revenue towards essential sectors, ensuring that both athletes and professionals in other fields are compensated fairly for their contributions.
In conclusion, the current income disparity raises legitimate concerns about justice even though market dynamics may be able to justify the high earnings of successful athletes. It is essential for attaining a more equitable distribution of wealth to recognise and adequately compensate those in other essential professions. By recognising and compensating diverse contributions to society, we can nurture a society that is more balanced and cohesive.     

Difficult Words/Phrases with Example Sentences:

Disparities (noun): Differences, especially significant ones.

Example: The income disparities between CEOs and their employees are often large.

Merit (noun): The quality of being good or useful; worth.

Example: Both arguments had some merit, and it was difficult to decide which one was more convincing.

Disproportionate (adjective): Too large or great for what is appropriate.

Example: The punishment they received was disproportionate to the crime.

Influential (adjective): Having the power to affect the way people think or behave.

Example: Celebrities can be very influential role models for young people.

Proponents (noun): People who support or advocate for something.

Example: The proponents of gun control believe it is necessary to reduce gun violence.

Critics (noun): People who express disapproval of something.

Example: The film received mixed reviews, with some critics praising it and others criticizing it.

Significant (adjective): Important or noticeable.

Example: He made a significant contribution to the project.

Equity (noun): Fairness and justice.

Example: We need to strive for greater equity in our society.

Redirect (verb): To change the direction of something.

Example: We need to redirect our resources towards more important things.

Cohesive (adjective): United and working together effectively.

Example: We need to build a more cohesive society where everyone feels included.                                   

37. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. 

Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer 3

Band 8

Without a question, salaries for working professionals have experienced a gradual decline over the past 15 years, sparking a contentious debate. Successful athletes, in particular, often earn a substantial amount of money, sometimes several times more than their counterparts in other professions. This essay aims to explore both perspectives on this issue.

There is no disputing the pivotal role of sports professionals as ambassadors for their respective countries. Competing and winning at the world level, they not only represent themselves but also their nations. The rigorous training they undergo before competitions, enhancing both physical and mental well-being, demonstrates their unwavering commitment to their sports. Financial rewards and medals are fitting acknowledgments for their dedication. Moreover, well-known athletes have the opportunity to earn money through endorsements, as product-based companies enlist them to promote their products. Given their global influence, it is reasonable for successful athletes to command higher earnings.

Conversely, a counterargument posits that the disparity in earnings is unjustifiable. Professionals in other fields such as science, medicine, and engineering, despite contributing significantly to national growth, do not receive commensurate financial compensation. A study by the Times of India reveals that athletes, who make up only a portion of the workforce, earn a staggering 60% of the total yearly income, leaving only 20% for other working professionals. Projections indicate that this income gap may widen by up to 50% in the next five years, fueling concerns about equity and fairness.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that individuals, regardless of their profession, who contribute significantly and earn substantial incomes, should be afforded equal opportunities. Addressing the widening income gap is essential for fostering a society that values and rewards diverse contributions equitably. 

37. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. 

Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer 4

Band 8

Most agree that over the past 15 years, the salaries of working professionals have experienced a gradual decline, sparking a debate on the considerable earnings of successful athletes compared to those in other professions. This essay aims to present both sides of the issue, where concerns about equality and indifference to the matter are roughly equated.

Despite athletes serving as global ambassadors for their countries, representing them in world-class competitions, the question of fair compensation arises. Rigorous training in physical and mental conditioning precedes these tournaments, showcasing athletes' commitment to their sports. The argument for substantial pay and awards when they triumph is rooted in recognizing and rewarding this unwavering dedication. Additionally, many sports celebrities earn from advertising, not just by endorsing products but also by actively participating in advertising campaigns. The call for equal pay, irrespective of the nature of the work, underlines the broader concern for equality in compensation.

On the flip side, professionals in other fields, such as scientists, physicians, and engineers, often find their pay inadequate in comparison to the complexity and significance of their work. Despite contributing significantly to the progress of the nation, these experts do not receive commensurate financial compensation. A study by the Times of India indicates that athletes, constituting only a portion of the workforce, earn nearly 60% of the total yearly income, raising concerns about fairness. Projections suggest that this income gap may widen by around 50% by 2022, intensifying concerns about equitable compensation for all working professionals.

In conclusion, I firmly believe that a "level playing field" should be established for individuals who earn substantial amounts, regardless of whether they are sportspeople or working professionals. Addressing the existing income disparities is essential for fostering a society that values and compensates all contributors equitably.

37. Successful sports professionals can earn a great deal more money than people in other important professions. Some people think this is fully justified while others think it is unfair. 

Discuss both of these views and give your own opinion.

Sample Answer 5

Band 8

There is little doubt that the income of sportspeople has experienced a significant upswing over the last 15 years, surpassing the earnings of the preceding three decades. The question of whether this is fair to other professionals sparks diverse opinions, with some deeming it unfair and others justifying it. This essay aims to explore both perspectives on this matter.

Indeed, several compelling reasons support the idea of offering high incomes to sportspeople, chief among them being their popularity. The substantial global fan following that most sportspeople command makes providing them with high salaries a fitting acknowledgment of their influence and contribution to the field. Additionally, when international players participate in tournaments abroad, they not only represent themselves but also their countries, bringing home prizes and trophies. A survey by the Times of India reveals that 70% of advertising companies prefer appointing sports figures in their ads, attributing this choice to the athletes' perceived talent and ability to tackle challenging tasks.

Conversely, the argument for supporting other professionals is grounded in the notion that they too contribute significantly and deserve equitable compensation. While sportspeople enjoy the limelight, other professionals play essential roles in maintaining a standardized way of life for society. Moreover, supporting these professionals can also benefit less developed advertising companies, providing them with the opportunity to leverage the skills of professional individuals. Research conducted by the New York Times indicates a growing interest among youngsters in starting their careers in the film industry, presenting a promising avenue for them to begin by auditioning in advertising agencies.

In conclusion, while recognizing the merits of encouraging sports professionals with substantial salaries for their representation at the national level, it is essential to acknowledge and support other professionals who contribute to the diverse fabric of society. A balanced approach that values and compensates various professions equitably ensures a fair and inclusive representation of talent and contributions.