The topic of fast food’s impact on public health is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on our analysis of past exam patterns and current trends, we anticipate this subject to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to modern society and global health concerns makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question that reflects the style and complexity of actual IELTS prompts.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should ban dangerous sports, while others think people should have freedom to choose their activities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a balanced argument about the role of government in regulating potentially harmful activities. It requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for government banning dangerous sports
- Explore reasons why people should have the freedom to choose their activities
- Provide a personal opinion on the matter
Let’s examine three sample essays addressing this prompt, each targeting a different band score.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Level
Fast food’s pervasive influence on public health has become a contentious issue in modern society. While some advocate for stringent governmental regulations to curb its negative impacts, others argue for individual freedom of choice in dietary matters. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government intervention argue that the state has a responsibility to protect public health. They contend that the widespread availability of fast food, coupled with aggressive marketing tactics, has contributed significantly to the obesity epidemic and related health issues such as diabetes and cardiovascular diseases. By implementing regulations such as limiting fast food outlets near schools or imposing higher taxes on unhealthy foods, governments could potentially reduce consumption and mitigate the associated health risks. Furthermore, supporters of this view argue that such measures would alleviate the burden on public healthcare systems, which often bear the cost of treating diet-related illnesses.
On the other hand, those who oppose government intervention emphasize the importance of personal freedom and responsibility. They argue that individuals should have the right to make their own dietary choices without state interference. This perspective holds that education and awareness campaigns are more effective and less intrusive than outright bans or restrictions. Additionally, they contend that the fast food industry provides employment opportunities and contributes to the economy, and excessive regulation could have unintended negative consequences.
In my opinion, a balanced approach is necessary to address this complex issue. While I believe that governments have a role to play in promoting public health, I do not think that heavy-handed regulations or bans are the most effective solution. Instead, I advocate for a multi-faceted strategy that combines public education, improved food labeling, and incentives for healthier food options. This approach would empower individuals to make informed choices while creating an environment that encourages healthier eating habits. Moreover, collaborating with the food industry to develop healthier alternatives could lead to more sustainable and widely accepted changes in dietary patterns.
In conclusion, the impact of fast food on public health is a nuanced issue that requires a thoughtful and comprehensive approach. By balancing public health concerns with individual freedoms, and fostering cooperation between government, industry, and consumers, we can work towards a healthier society without resorting to overly restrictive measures.
(Word count: 369)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:
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Coherent structure: The essay follows a clear four-paragraph structure, with a balanced discussion of both viewpoints before presenting a personal opinion.
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Sophisticated vocabulary: The use of advanced words and phrases such as “pervasive influence,” “contentious issue,” and “multi-faceted strategy” showcases a wide lexical range.
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Complex sentence structures: The essay employs a variety of sentence structures, including compound and complex sentences, which add sophistication to the writing.
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Clear argumentation: Each paragraph presents clear and well-developed arguments, supported by relevant examples and explanations.
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Cohesive devices: The use of linking words and phrases such as “Furthermore,” “On the other hand,” and “Moreover” enhances the essay’s coherence.
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Balanced discussion: The essay gives equal weight to both perspectives before presenting a nuanced personal opinion.
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Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples to illustrate points, such as “limiting fast food outlets near schools” and “imposing higher taxes on unhealthy foods.”
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Conclusive ending: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the author’s position.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Level
Fast food has become a big problem for public health in many countries. Some people think the government should make strict rules to control it, but others believe people should be free to choose what they eat. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support government control say that fast food is causing many health problems like obesity and heart disease. They think if the government makes rules to limit fast food restaurants or puts extra taxes on unhealthy food, it will help people eat better. This could reduce health problems and save money for healthcare systems.
On the other hand, people who are against government control say that it’s not fair to tell people what they can and can’t eat. They believe that teaching people about healthy eating is better than making rules. They also say that fast food businesses give jobs to many people and help the economy.
I think both sides have good points, but I believe a mix of approaches is best. The government should provide better education about healthy eating and make sure food labels are clear. They could also encourage fast food companies to offer healthier options. However, I don’t think they should ban fast food completely because people should have some choice in what they eat.
In conclusion, fast food’s impact on public health is a complicated issue. While the government has a role in protecting health, they shouldn’t take away all personal choice. A balanced approach with education and encouragement for healthier options is probably the best way to improve public health.
(Word count: 269)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several characteristics that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a basic four-paragraph structure, addressing both viewpoints and presenting a personal opinion.
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Adequate vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary, but the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Simple and compound sentences: The essay primarily uses simple and compound sentences, with fewer complex structures.
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Basic argumentation: The essay presents main ideas for both perspectives, but the arguments are less developed compared to the higher band essay.
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Limited use of cohesive devices: The essay uses some basic linking words, but there’s less variety and sophistication in their usage.
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Balanced discussion: The essay addresses both sides of the argument before presenting a personal opinion.
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Some examples: The essay provides some examples, but they are less specific and detailed than in the higher band essay.
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Basic conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points but lacks the depth and nuance of the Band 8-9 essay.
Sample Essay 3: Band 5-6 Level
Fast food is popular but it can be bad for health. Some people want the government to stop it, but others say people should choose what they eat. I will talk about both ideas.
People who want the government to control fast food think it makes people fat and sick. They say if there are less fast food places, people will eat better food. This can help stop health problems.
But other people say the government should not tell us what to eat. They think it’s our choice. They also say fast food gives jobs to people and is good for money in the country.
I think both ideas have good points. The government should teach people about healthy food, but not stop all fast food. People need to know what is in their food, but they should still be able to choose.
In the end, fast food and health is a big problem. The government should help but not control everything. We need to learn about good food and make smart choices.
(Word count: 165)
Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay
This essay demonstrates characteristics typical of a Band 5-6 level:
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Basic structure: The essay follows a simple structure, addressing both viewpoints and offering a personal opinion, but lacks depth.
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Limited vocabulary: The essay uses basic vocabulary related to the topic, with repetition of simple words and phrases.
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Simple sentences: The essay primarily uses simple sentence structures, with little variation or complexity.
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Basic ideas: The essay presents main ideas for both perspectives, but lacks detailed explanations or examples.
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Minimal use of cohesive devices: The essay uses few linking words, relying mostly on simple connectors like “but” and “and.”
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Brief discussion: While the essay addresses both sides of the argument, the discussion is brief and lacks depth.
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Few examples: The essay provides very few specific examples to support its points.
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Simple conclusion: The conclusion restates the main points but lacks depth or insight.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Pervasive (adjective) /pəˈveɪsɪv/ – spreading widely throughout an area or group of people
- Contentious (adjective) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Stringent (adjective) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – strict, precise, and exacting
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – make less severe, serious, or painful
- Alleviate (verb) /əˈliːvieɪt/ – make (suffering, deficiency, or a problem) less severe
- Multi-faceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Coherent (adjective) /kəʊˈhɪərənt/ – logical and consistent
- Sophisticated (adjective) /səˈfɪstɪkeɪtɪd/ – developed to a high degree of complexity
- Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
Conclusion
The impact of fast food on public health remains a critical topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As we’ve seen through these sample essays, the key to success lies in presenting a balanced argument, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your thoughts coherently. Remember, practice is essential to improve your writing skills. We encourage you to attempt your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion.
For further practice, consider exploring related topics such as:
- The role of education in promoting healthy eating habits
- The responsibility of food companies in addressing public health concerns
- The effectiveness of food labeling in influencing consumer choices
- The impact of fast food advertising on children’s health
By engaging with these topics, you’ll not only prepare for potential IELTS questions but also gain a deeper understanding of this important global issue.