The topic of fast food chains and their impact on public health has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Given its relevance to modern society and global health concerns, it’s likely to appear in future tests as well. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays for different band scores, focusing on a question that closely resembles past exam questions.

Fast food impact on public health

Analyzing the Question

Some people believe that the government should ban fast food chains to improve public health. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

This question requires you to discuss your viewpoint on whether governments should prohibit fast food chains to enhance public health. It’s an opinion-based question that asks you to consider the relationship between fast food, public health, and government intervention.

Key points to consider:

• The role of fast food chains in society
• The impact of fast food on public health
• The effectiveness and feasibility of a government ban
• Alternative solutions to improve public health

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response

In recent years, the proliferation of fast food chains has sparked debates about their impact on public health, leading some to advocate for government intervention through outright bans. While I acknowledge the concerns regarding the health implications of fast food consumption, I strongly disagree with the proposal to ban these establishments entirely.

Firstly, it is important to recognize that fast food chains, despite their drawbacks, fulfill a significant role in modern society. They provide convenient and affordable meal options for busy individuals and families, particularly in urban areas where time constraints are a common issue. Moreover, these chains often serve as important employers, offering job opportunities to a wide range of workers, including students and those seeking entry-level positions.

However, the negative health impacts associated with frequent fast food consumption cannot be ignored. The high calorie content, excessive saturated fats, and added sugars in many fast food items contribute to obesity, diabetes, and cardiovascular diseases. These health issues pose a substantial burden on public healthcare systems and diminish the overall quality of life for affected individuals.

Nevertheless, banning fast food chains is an extreme measure that infringes upon personal freedom and consumer choice. Instead, governments should focus on more balanced and effective approaches to address the public health concerns associated with fast food. For instance, implementing stricter regulations on nutritional content, mandating clear and comprehensive labeling, and launching educational campaigns about healthy eating habits could be more productive strategies.

Furthermore, governments could incentivize fast food chains to offer healthier menu options and use better quality ingredients. This approach would not only improve the nutritional value of fast food but also encourage innovation within the industry. Additionally, promoting physical activity and overall healthy lifestyles would complement these efforts, addressing the broader issue of public health beyond just diet.

In conclusion, while the impact of fast food on public health is a valid concern, banning fast food chains is not a feasible or desirable solution. A more nuanced approach that combines education, regulation, and industry cooperation would be more effective in improving public health while respecting individual choices and market dynamics.

(Word count: 329)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay directly addresses the question, presenting a clear position against banning fast food chains while acknowledging the health concerns.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-structured with clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific point. Linking words and phrases (e.g., “However,” “Nevertheless,” “Furthermore”) are used effectively to connect ideas.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “proliferation,” “infringes upon,” “incentivize”).

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

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples, showing depth of critical thinking.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response

Fast food chains have become a big part of our lives, but some people think they are bad for our health. Some even say the government should ban them. I partly agree with this idea, but I think there are better ways to solve the problem.

It’s true that fast food can be unhealthy. Many fast food meals have a lot of fat, sugar, and salt. Eating too much of this kind of food can make people overweight and sick. This is a big problem for public health, and it costs a lot of money to treat these health problems.

However, banning fast food chains completely is not a good solution. Many people like fast food because it’s cheap and quick. Also, these restaurants give jobs to many people. If we ban them, a lot of people might lose their jobs.

Instead of banning fast food, the government can do other things to help people be healthier. They could make laws that say fast food restaurants must show how many calories are in their food. This would help people make better choices. The government could also teach people about healthy eating in schools and on TV.

Another good idea is to encourage fast food chains to make healthier food. Maybe they could offer more salads and fruits. The government could give them benefits if they do this.

In conclusion, while fast food can be bad for health, banning it is not the best answer. It’s better to help people make good choices and to work with fast food chains to offer healthier options. This way, we can improve public health without taking away people’s choices.

(Word count: 278)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates qualities that align with a Band 6-7 score:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the main points of the question, presenting a balanced view.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, though the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied compared to higher band scores.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors that do not impede understanding.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, though not as fully developed as in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Proliferation (noun) – /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase in number or amount
2. Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
3. Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsen.tɪ.vaɪz/ – to encourage or motivate someone to do something
4. Feasible (adjective) – /ˈfiː.zə.bəl/ – possible and practical to do easily or conveniently
5. Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuː.ɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
6. Infringe (verb) – /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – to limit or restrict, especially in a way that violates rights
7. Mandate (verb) – /ˈmæn.deɪt/ – to officially require something
8. Burden (noun) – /ˈbɜː.dən/ – a duty or responsibility that causes worry, difficulty, or hard work
9. Diminish (verb) – /dɪˈmɪn.ɪʃ/ – to reduce or be reduced in size or importance
10. Complement (verb) – /ˈkɒm.plɪ.ment/ – to add to something in a way that enhances or improves it

Conclusion

The topic of Fast Food Chains’ Impact On Public Health is a complex and relevant issue for IELT Writing Task 2. It requires candidates to consider various aspects such as personal freedom, government responsibility, public health, and economic factors. When approaching this topic, it’s crucial to present a balanced argument, consider multiple perspectives, and provide specific examples or solutions.

For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones such as:

• The role of education in promoting healthy eating habits
• The responsibility of food companies in addressing obesity
• The balance between personal choice and government regulation in food consumption

Remember to focus on clear structure, varied vocabulary, and well-developed arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!