IELTS Writing Task 2 often features topics related to government policies and public health. This essay type has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular subject. Today, we’ll focus on a specific question about improving public health through government policies, providing sample essays for different band scores and analyzing them in detail.
Analyzing the Essay Question
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for improving public health, while others think that individuals should take care of their own health. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that governments should be responsible for improving public health
- Discuss the view that individuals should take care of their own health
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
The debate over whether governments or individuals should bear the primary responsibility for public health is a complex one, with valid arguments on both sides. While I believe that a collaborative approach is ideal, I lean towards the view that governments should play a more significant role in improving public health.
Those who advocate for individual responsibility argue that personal choices significantly impact health outcomes. They contend that individuals should be accountable for their diet, exercise habits, and overall lifestyle choices. This perspective emphasizes the importance of self-discipline and personal autonomy in maintaining good health. Moreover, proponents of this view often suggest that excessive government intervention can lead to a “nanny state,” where personal freedoms are curtailed in the name of public health.
On the other hand, supporters of government responsibility point out that many health issues are beyond individual control. Socioeconomic factors, environmental conditions, and access to healthcare all play crucial roles in public health outcomes. Governments have the resources and authority to implement wide-reaching policies that can address these systemic issues. For instance, they can enforce food safety regulations, implement public health education programs, and ensure equitable access to healthcare services. Additionally, government interventions can create environments that make healthy choices easier for individuals, such as by improving urban planning to encourage physical activity or regulating harmful substances.
In my opinion, while individual responsibility is undoubtedly important, governments should take the lead in improving public health. This is because health issues often have complex, interconnected causes that require coordinated, large-scale solutions. Governments can implement policies that create a supportive environment for healthy living, making it easier for individuals to make good choices. For example, initiatives like improving public transport and urban sustainability can indirectly contribute to better public health by reducing pollution and encouraging physical activity.
Furthermore, governments are better positioned to address health inequalities that exist due to socioeconomic disparities. By ensuring equal access to healthcare, healthy food options, and safe living environments, governments can level the playing field and improve overall public health outcomes. This approach recognizes that health is not solely a matter of personal choice but is significantly influenced by societal factors.
In conclusion, while individuals certainly have a role to play in maintaining their health, I believe that governments should shoulder the primary responsibility for improving public health. A comprehensive approach that combines government-led initiatives with efforts to educate and empower individuals is likely to yield the best results in creating a healthier society.
(Word count: 407)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to a high band score:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “Furthermore”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “socioeconomic factors,” “equitable access,” “coordinated, large-scale solutions”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
Now, let’s look at an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
The question of who should be responsible for improving public health is a topic of much debate. Some people think it’s the government’s job, while others believe individuals should take care of their own health. In my opinion, both have important roles to play.
Those who think the government should be responsible for public health have some good points. Governments have more resources and power to make big changes. They can create laws to protect people’s health, like banning smoking in public places or making sure food is safe. They can also provide healthcare services and education about healthy living. For example, governments can build hospitals and run campaigns about eating well and exercising.
On the other hand, people who believe individuals should be responsible for their own health also have valid arguments. They say that each person knows their own body best and should make their own choices about diet, exercise, and lifestyle. They think that if people rely too much on the government, they might become lazy about taking care of themselves. Also, some people worry that too much government control could limit personal freedom.
In my view, both the government and individuals have important parts to play in improving public health. The government should provide the framework and resources for good health, like healthcare services, health education, and laws to protect people. But individuals also need to take responsibility for their own choices and actions. People should try to eat healthy food, exercise regularly, and avoid harmful habits like smoking.
I think the best approach is a partnership between the government and individuals. The government can create an environment that supports good health, but it’s up to individuals to take advantage of these opportunities and make healthy choices in their daily lives. This way, we can work together to improve public health for everyone.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to a Band 6-7 score:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though there’s less variety than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: The main points are supported with examples, but they could be more fully elaborated.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some key vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions:
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Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃən/: The act of becoming involved in a situation in order to improve it or prevent it from getting worse.
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Socioeconomic (adjective) /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk/: Related to the interaction of social and economic factors.
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Equitable (adjective) /ˈekwɪtəbl/: Fair and impartial.
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Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/: The right or condition of self-government; freedom from external control or influence.
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Curtail (verb) /kɜːˈteɪl/: Reduce or limit (something).
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Disparity (noun) /dɪˈspærəti/: A great difference.
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Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/: An act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation; a fresh approach to something.
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Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/: Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
Conclusion
Improving public health through government policies is a complex topic that requires careful consideration of various perspectives. By practicing with essays like these and expanding your vocabulary, you can improve your ability to discuss this topic effectively in the IELTS Writing Task 2.
For further practice, consider writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as the role of governments in addressing income inequality or the rise of telehealth in remote areas. You can post your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your IELTS writing skills!