π Written Ability Test (WAT)/Essay Analysis Guide
π Topic: Should Governments Impose Limits on Working Hours to Improve Mental and Physical Health?
π Understanding the Topic’s Importance
Modern workplaces contribute significantly to both GDP growth and rising health concerns. Governments must weigh economic and health priorities when determining work-hour policies.
π Effective Planning and Writing
- β³ Time Allocation:
- π Planning: 5 minutes
- βοΈ Writing: 20 minutes
- π Review: 5 minutes
π― Introduction Techniques for Essays
- Contrast Introduction: “Countries like France and Germany thrive with shorter workweeks, while economies like India and the US struggle with overwork-related health crises.”
- Fact-Based Introduction: “Over 33% of global employees are at risk of depression due to long work hours, prompting discussions on government intervention.”
π Structuring the Essay Body
- π Achievements:
- β Improved well-being in Scandinavia with flexible work policies.
- π Microsoft Japan’s productivity increase by 40% in a four-day workweek trial.
- βοΈ Challenges with Comparative Analysis:
- π GDP dips in the short term (France).
- π Compliance issues in traditional work cultures (South Korea).
- π Future Outlook:
- π€ Potential for AI to complement reduced hours.
- π Industry-specific policy recommendations for sustainable growth.
π‘ Concluding Effectively
- Balanced Conclusion: “Limiting work hours is vital for mental health but must be implemented with flexibility across industries.”
- Global Comparison Conclusion: “While shorter workweeks prove effective in Europe, their success depends on tailored approaches in other economies.”
βοΈ Sample Short Essays
- Balanced Perspective:
“Governments must balance economic growth with employee health, using examples from successful models like Iceland and France.” - Solution-Oriented:
“Technology integration and flexible policies can mitigate productivity losses while improving well-being.” - Global Comparison:
“Adapting policies to cultural and economic contexts is crucial, as shown by contrasting outcomes in South Korea and Iceland.”