The topic of How Diet And Exercise Influence Overall Life Expectancy is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear frequently in future tests due to its relevance to global health concerns. Let’s examine a related question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that it is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. Others however believe that governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question addresses the debate over personal versus governmental responsibility for health and diet. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that individuals are responsible for their own health and diet
- Discuss the opposing view that governments should ensure citizens have a healthy diet
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
A well-structured essay should include an introduction, two body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, a paragraph stating the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
The question of whether individuals or governments should bear the responsibility for public health and nutrition is a matter of ongoing debate. While some argue that personal choices should dictate health outcomes, others contend that governmental intervention is necessary to ensure a healthy population. In my opinion, while individual responsibility is crucial, government support and guidance play an indispensable role in promoting public health.
Proponents of individual responsibility argue that personal health choices, including diet and exercise, are fundamentally private matters. They believe that each person should have the freedom to make their own decisions regarding what they eat and how they maintain their health. This view emphasizes personal autonomy and suggests that individuals are best positioned to understand and cater to their unique health needs. Moreover, advocates of this perspective might argue that relying on personal responsibility fosters a sense of accountability and motivation for maintaining one’s health.
On the other hand, those who support governmental involvement in public health contend that many health issues are societal problems that require collective action. They argue that governments have the resources and authority to implement wide-reaching policies that can significantly impact public health. For instance, governments can regulate food industries to reduce harmful ingredients, implement educational programs about nutrition, and create environments that promote physical activity. Supporters of this view might point to successful public health initiatives, such as smoking bans or mandatory food labeling, as evidence of the effectiveness of government intervention.
In my opinion, the most effective approach to public health combines both individual responsibility and government support. While individuals should ultimately make their own health decisions, governments play a crucial role in creating an environment that facilitates healthy choices. For example, governments can provide accurate health information, ensure access to nutritious food options, and design cities that encourage physical activity. This balanced approach recognizes the importance of personal choice while acknowledging the significant impact that societal factors have on individual health outcomes.
In conclusion, the responsibility for health and diet should be shared between individuals and governments. While personal choices are fundamental to health outcomes, governmental policies and support are essential in creating a society that promotes and facilitates healthy living. By combining individual accountability with effective public health measures, we can create a more robust and healthier society.
Healthy lifestyle habits including diet and exercise
Band 6-7 Essay
The debate about who should be responsible for people’s health and diet is an important topic. Some people think individuals should take care of their own health, while others believe the government should make sure citizens eat healthily. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, many people believe that individuals should be responsible for their own health and diet. They say that people have the right to choose what they eat and how they live their lives. It’s a personal choice, and the government shouldn’t interfere. Also, people know their own bodies best, so they can make better decisions about their health than the government can.
On the other hand, some people think the government should make sure citizens have a healthy diet. They argue that many people don’t have enough knowledge about nutrition, so the government should provide education and guidelines. The government can also regulate food companies to make sure they produce healthier foods. This can help prevent health problems like obesity and diabetes, which are becoming more common.
In my opinion, both individuals and the government have important roles to play in promoting good health and diet. People should take responsibility for their own choices, but the government should provide support and information to help them make better decisions. For example, the government can create programs to teach people about healthy eating and provide affordable, healthy food options.
In conclusion, while individuals should be responsible for their own health choices, the government also has a role in promoting healthy diets. By working together, individuals and governments can create a healthier society for everyone.
Band 5-6 Essay
Some people think individuals should take care of their own health and diet. Others think the government should make sure citizens eat healthy. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
First, some people say individuals should be responsible for their health. They think people can choose what to eat and how to live. It’s their own life, so they should decide. Also, people know what they like to eat, so they can make their own choices.
Second, other people think the government should help citizens eat healthy. They say the government can make rules for food companies to make healthier food. The government can also teach people about good food choices. This can help stop problems like people getting too fat.
I think both ideas are important. People should try to be healthy, but the government can help too. The government can give information about healthy food and make it easier for people to buy good food. But people still need to make their own choices.
In conclusion, both individuals and the government have a job in making people healthy. If they work together, everyone can be healthier.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. Key strengths include:
- Coherent structure: Clear introduction, balanced discussion of both viewpoints, well-articulated personal opinion, and a strong conclusion.
- Vocabulary: Use of advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions (e.g., “ongoing debate”, “indispensable role”, “fosters a sense of accountability”).
- Grammar: Variety of complex sentence structures used accurately.
- Task response: Fully addresses all parts of the question with well-developed ideas and a clear position.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically with effective use of cohesive devices.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a good understanding of the task and adequate writing skills. Strengths include:
- Structure: Clear organization with an introduction, discussion of both views, personal opinion, and conclusion.
- Vocabulary: Good use of topic-related vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control.
- Task response: Addresses all parts of the question, though ideas are less fully developed.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas are logically organized, though transitions could be smoother.
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the task but with limitations. Features include:
- Structure: Basic organization is present, but paragraphs are less developed.
- Vocabulary: Limited range of vocabulary with some repetition.
- Grammar: Mainly simple sentences with some errors that don’t impede understanding.
- Task response: Addresses the main points of the question but with limited development.
- Cohesion and coherence: Basic logical progression, but lacks sophisticated linking words.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Responsibility (noun) /rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – the state or fact of being accountable or to blame for something
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Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action or process of intervening
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Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government
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Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – the fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility
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Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/ – put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect
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Facilitate (verb) /fəˈsɪlɪteɪt/ – make (an action or process) easy or easier
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Regulation (noun) /ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/ – a rule or directive made and maintained by an authority
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Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – the ability to assess and initiate things independently
Healthy eating education program in schools
Conclusion
Understanding how to approach IELTS Writing Task 2 questions about diet, exercise, and life expectancy is crucial for success in the exam. The sample essays provided demonstrate different levels of writing proficiency and offer insights into what examiners look for at various band scores.
For future practice, consider these potential related topics:
- The role of schools in promoting healthy lifestyles among children
- The impact of fast food culture on public health
- The effectiveness of government campaigns in improving national health
To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing performance!
