Freedom of speech and government censorship have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in tests across Asia and Europe. Based on analysis of past papers, this topic has appeared in various forms at least 4-5 times annually since 2019, making it a highly relevant subject for IELTS candidates.
Government censorship affecting freedom of speech illustrated with newspaper and red tape
Past Exam Question Analysis
One of the most common question formats on this topic appeared in the 2022 IELTS exam:
Some people believe that governments should censor certain types of media content to protect society, while others think complete freedom of expression is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Understanding the Question
- Topic: Government censorship vs freedom of expression
- Task: Discuss both views + give opinion
- Key points to address:
- Arguments for censorship
- Arguments for freedom of expression
- Personal stance with justification
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate between government censorship and unrestricted freedom of expression remains contentious in modern society. While some advocate for content regulation to maintain social order, others argue that complete freedom of expression is fundamental to democracy. In my view, while some minimal oversight may be necessary, extensive censorship poses significant risks to societal progress.
Proponents of government censorship argue that controlling media content can protect vulnerable groups and maintain social stability. For instance, restrictions on violent or explicit content can shield children from harmful influences. Additionally, censorship advocates contend that regulating hate speech and misinformation prevents social discord and maintains public safety, as demonstrated by the spread of fake news during the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, those favoring unrestricted expression emphasize its crucial role in democratic societies. Uncensored media enables public discourse, facilitates innovation, and holds authorities accountable. Historical examples show that societies with strict censorship often experience stunted cultural and intellectual development. Moreover, freedom of expression has proven essential for exposing corruption and advocating for social reform.
In my opinion, while some regulation may be necessary for extreme cases, extensive censorship creates more problems than it solves. A balanced approach might involve transparent guidelines for restricting clearly harmful content while preserving the fundamental right to free expression. This could include age-appropriate content filters while maintaining open dialogue on political and social issues.
In conclusion, although protecting society through content regulation has merit, the benefits of free expression outweigh the risks of censorship. The focus should be on educating people to critically evaluate information rather than restricting access to it.
Journalists working in newsroom with freedom of press quotes
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Nowadays, many people discuss about whether governments should control media content or not. This essay will look at both sides of this issue and give my opinion.
Some people think government censorship is good for society. First, it can stop bad things like violence and adult content from reaching children. Second, it helps keep society peaceful by stopping fake news and bad information. For example, during Covid-19, some countries stopped wrong information about medicine and health.
On the other hand, many people believe freedom of speech is very important. When people can speak freely, they can share new ideas and point out problems in society. Also, without freedom, people cannot know what is really happening in their country. This makes it hard to improve things.
I think both sides have good points, but too much control is dangerous. While some rules are needed to protect children and stop very harmful content, governments should not control everything people say and write. It is better to teach people how to think carefully about what they read and hear.
In conclusion, while some control may be needed, complete freedom of expression is more important for society’s development.
Essay Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Strengths:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization and cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Balanced discussion with clear personal stance
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6.5 Essay Limitations:
- Simpler vocabulary and sentence structures
- Basic examples lacking detail
- Some informal expressions
- Less sophisticated argument development
- Limited use of cohesive devices
Key Vocabulary
- contentious (adj) /kənˈtenʃəs/ – causing disagreement or debate
- discourse (n) /ˈdɪskɔːs/ – written or spoken communication
- misinformation (n) /ˌmɪsɪnfəˈmeɪʃən/ – false or inaccurate information
- scrutiny (n) /ˈskruːtɪni/ – careful examination
- accountability (n) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility to explain actions
- advocacy (n) /ˈædvəkəsi/ – public support for an idea or cause
- deterrent (n) /dɪˈterənt/ – something that discourages an action
- transparency (n) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – openness and clarity
In conclusion, candidates should practice writing balanced arguments while maintaining academic language and clear structure. Future questions might address digital censorship, social media regulation, or press freedom in developing nations. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement suggestions.
