The topic of government intervention in public health through taxation, particularly on sugary drinks to tackle obesity, has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and the frequency of similar questions in past exams, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Some people think that governments should impose a tax on sugary drinks to tackle obesity. Others believe there are better ways to address this issue. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should tax sugary drinks to address obesity
- Explore alternative methods to tackle obesity
- Provide their personal opinion on the most effective approach
Candidates should ensure they address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating their own view.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Obesity has become a global health crisis, prompting debates on effective solutions. While some advocate for taxing sugary beverages as a government intervention, others argue for alternative approaches. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of sugar taxes argue that this measure can significantly reduce obesity rates. By increasing the price of unhealthy drinks, consumers are discouraged from purchasing them frequently, leading to decreased sugar intake and improved public health. Moreover, the revenue generated from these taxes can be reinvested in health education programs or subsidies for healthier food options. For instance, Mexico’s implementation of a sugar tax in 2014 resulted in a notable decrease in sugary drink consumption and an increase in water intake.
On the other hand, critics of this approach contend that there are more effective ways to combat obesity. They argue that comprehensive education on nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet could yield better long-term results. Additionally, promoting physical activity through improved urban planning and accessible sports facilities could address the root causes of obesity more holistically. Furthermore, some argue that sugar taxes disproportionately affect lower-income groups, potentially exacerbating social inequalities.
In my opinion, while taxing sugary drinks can be a part of the solution, it should not be the sole strategy to tackle obesity. A multifaceted approach that combines economic incentives, education, and infrastructure development is likely to be more effective. Governments could implement sugar taxes alongside initiatives to improve food labeling, increase access to healthy foods in underserved areas, and integrate nutrition education into school curricula. This comprehensive strategy would address both the immediate consumption patterns and the underlying factors contributing to obesity.
In conclusion, while taxing sugary drinks has shown some success in reducing obesity rates, a more holistic approach that incorporates various strategies is necessary to address this complex issue effectively. Governments should consider a balanced combination of fiscal policies, educational programs, and environmental changes to create lasting improvements in public health.
(Word count: 309)
Debate on taxing sugary drinks to combat obesity
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Obesity is a big problem in many countries today. Some people think the government should put a tax on sugary drinks to help solve this issue, but others believe there are better ways to deal with it. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support taxing sugary drinks say it can help reduce obesity. When drinks like soda become more expensive, people might buy them less often. This could lead to less sugar consumption and better health. Also, the money from these taxes could be used for health programs or to make healthy food cheaper. For example, some countries that have tried this have seen people drinking less soda.
However, other people think there are better ways to fight obesity. They say that teaching people about healthy eating is more important. If people understand what foods are good for them, they might make better choices. Another idea is to encourage more exercise by building parks and sports centers. Some people worry that taxing drinks will mostly affect poor people, which isn’t fair.
In my opinion, I think both sides have good points. Taxing sugary drinks might help a little, but it’s not enough on its own. I believe the best way to tackle obesity is to use several different methods together. This could include some taxes, but also better education about nutrition and more chances for people to exercise. It’s a complicated problem that needs a big solution.
To conclude, while taxing sugary drinks might help with obesity, I think a mix of different approaches would work better. Governments should think about using taxes along with education and other programs to help people be healthier.
(Word count: 277)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Obesity is a big health problem now. Some people think governments should make sugary drinks more expensive to help. But others say there are better ways. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who like the tax idea say it will make people buy less sugary drinks. If drinks cost more, maybe people will not buy them so much. This can help people be healthier. The government can use the money from taxes to teach about health or make healthy food cheaper.
But some people don’t like this idea. They think teaching about healthy food is better. If people know what is good to eat, they can choose better. Also, having more places to play sports can help people exercise more. Some worry that making drinks more expensive will hurt poor people the most.
I think both ideas have good points. Making sugary drinks more expensive might help a little, but it’s not enough. I think the best way is to do many things together. We should teach about healthy food, have more places to exercise, and maybe make some unhealthy things more expensive.
In the end, I believe governments should use many different ways to help people be healthy. Just making sugary drinks cost more is not enough to solve the big problem of obesity.
(Word count: 213)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. Key strengths include:
- Clear organization with a well-developed introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
- Comprehensive coverage of both viewpoints with relevant examples.
- Advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures used accurately.
- A nuanced personal opinion that synthesizes both perspectives.
- Cohesive flow of ideas with appropriate linking words.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a good understanding of the task and topic. Its features include:
- Clear structure with distinct paragraphs for each viewpoint and a personal opinion.
- Adequate coverage of both sides of the argument.
- Some use of less common vocabulary and attempts at complex sentences.
- A clear personal opinion, though less developed than the higher band essay.
- Generally good coherence and cohesion with some linking words.
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the task. Characteristics include:
- Simple organization with an attempt to address all parts of the question.
- Basic coverage of both viewpoints without much depth.
- Limited range of vocabulary with some repetition.
- Simple sentence structures with occasional errors.
- A personal opinion is given but not well-developed.
- Basic coherence but with limited use of linking words.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Obesity (noun) – /əʊˈbiːsəti/ – The state of being very fat or overweight
- Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntəˈvenʃ(ə)n/ – The action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- Implement (verb) – /ˈɪmplɪment/ – To put a plan or system into operation
- Holistic (adjective) – /həʊˈlɪstɪk/ – Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected
- Multifaceted (adjective) – /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
- Disproportionately (adverb) – /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃ(ə)nətli/ – To a degree that is too large or too small in comparison with something else
- Exacerbate (verb) – /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – To make a problem or bad situation worse
- Comprehensive (adjective) – /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
These vocabulary items can help elevate your writing and demonstrate a wider range of language use in your IELTS essays.
In conclusion, the topic of government intervention through taxation to address public health issues like obesity is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on similar topics, focusing on developing balanced arguments, using advanced vocabulary, and structuring your response clearly. Remember to always address all parts of the question and provide your own opinion supported by relevant examples.
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your studies!
Should governments impose a tax on unhealthy foods? This related topic can provide additional insights and practice opportunities for your IELTS preparation.