IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Government-Provided Free Healthcare

The topic of whether governments should provide free healthcare to all citizens is a common and recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular topic due to its relevance in contemporary global discussions. Let’s explore this theme through sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed analyses to help you improve your IELTS writing skills.

Analyzing the Task

Some people believe that governments should provide free healthcare to all citizens. Others think that the costs of healthcare should be the responsibility of individuals. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should provide free healthcare
2. Discuss the opposing view that individuals should be responsible for healthcare costs
3. Present and justify your own opinion on the matter

Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your position.

Healthcare Debate

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Healthcare provision is a contentious issue in many countries, with some advocating for government-funded systems and others supporting individual responsibility. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own view.

Proponents of free healthcare argue that it is a fundamental human right that should be accessible to all citizens regardless of their financial status. They contend that a healthy population is more productive and contributes more to the economy, thus justifying government investment. Moreover, universal healthcare can prevent minor health issues from escalating into more serious and costly conditions, potentially reducing long-term healthcare expenditure.

On the other hand, those who believe individuals should bear healthcare costs argue that this approach promotes personal responsibility and reduces the burden on taxpayers. They suggest that when people pay for their own healthcare, they are more likely to make healthier lifestyle choices and use medical services judiciously. Additionally, a privatized system may foster competition, potentially leading to improved quality and efficiency in healthcare delivery.

In my opinion, while personal responsibility is important, the benefits of government-provided healthcare outweigh the drawbacks. A hybrid system where basic healthcare is free but additional services require co-payments could strike a balance between accessibility and responsible usage. This approach ensures that essential medical care is available to all while maintaining some level of individual accountability.

In conclusion, healthcare provision is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides. However, I believe that a predominantly government-funded system with elements of individual contribution offers the best solution for ensuring a healthy and productive society.

(Word count: 270)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “In conclusion”).

3. Lexical Resource: The writer uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “contentious,” “advocating,” “escalating,” “judiciously”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the topic.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of who should pay for healthcare is a big topic in many countries. Some people think the government should provide free healthcare, while others believe individuals should pay for it themselves. This essay will look at both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support free healthcare say it’s a basic right that everyone should have. They think it’s not fair that poor people might not be able to get medical help when they need it. Also, when the whole country is healthy, it can work better and make more money. This could be good for the economy in the long run.

On the other hand, people who think individuals should pay for their own healthcare say it makes people more responsible. If people have to pay, they might try to stay healthier and not use medical services unless they really need to. It could also make hospitals and doctors try to give better service to get more customers.

In my opinion, I think the government should provide basic healthcare for free, but people could pay extra for special treatments. This way, everyone can get help when they’re sick, but there’s still a reason for people to be careful about their health.

To sum up, both sides have good points, but I believe a mix of free basic healthcare and some individual payments is the best way to keep a country healthy and fair.

(Word count: 245)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates characteristics typical of a Band 6-7 score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but lacks the sophistication seen in higher band scores.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control of grammar.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be supported with more specific examples or deeper analysis.

Key Vocabulary

Here are some important vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions and pronunciations:

1. Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
2. Advocate (verb) /ˈædvəkeɪt/ – to publicly support or recommend a particular cause or policy
3. Fundamental (adjective) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/ – forming a necessary base or core; of central importance
4. Accessible (adjective) /əkˈsesəbl/ – able to be reached or entered; easily obtained or used
5. Escalating (verb) /ˈeskəleɪtɪŋ/ – increasing rapidly
6. Judiciously (adverb) /dʒuːˈdɪʃəsli/ – with good judgment or sense
7. Hybrid (noun) /ˈhaɪbrɪd/ – something that is formed by combining two or more things
8. Predominantly (adverb) /prɪˈdɒmɪnəntli/ – mainly; for the most part

Conclusion

The topic of government-provided free healthcare is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, consider practicing with similar prompts such as:

• Should governments prioritize healthcare spending over other sectors?
• Is universal basic income a viable solution for healthcare access?
• How can governments balance healthcare provision with other social services?

Remember to analyze the question carefully, present balanced arguments, and clearly state your opinion. Practice writing essays on these topics and consider sharing them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you develop the skills needed to excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.