Master IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Fast Food’s Impact on Health Systems

The topic of fast food’s impact on health systems is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular …

Government and individual responsibility in addressing fast food's impact on health systems

The topic of fast food’s impact on health systems is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has appeared frequently in past exams and is likely to continue being a popular choice due to its relevance to global health concerns. Based on analysis of past IELTS questions, we’ve identified a highly probable essay prompt related to this topic:

Some people believe that governments should be responsible for reducing the negative health effects of fast food. Others think individuals should take responsibility for their own diet and health. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores to help you understand how to approach this type of task effectively.

Question Analysis

This question is asking you to discuss two contrasting views on who should be responsible for addressing the health impacts of fast food – governments or individuals. It’s crucial to:

  1. Discuss both perspectives equally
  2. Provide relevant examples and explanations for each view
  3. State your own opinion clearly
  4. Use appropriate structure and cohesive devices

Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The prevalence of fast food and its associated health risks has become a global concern, sparking debate on who should bear the responsibility for mitigating its negative effects. While some argue that governments should take the lead in addressing this issue, others maintain that individuals should be accountable for their own dietary choices. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both parties is essential for effectively tackling this complex problem.

Those who advocate for government intervention argue that authorities have the power and resources to implement wide-reaching policies that can significantly impact public health. For instance, governments can impose stricter regulations on fast food marketing, especially those targeting children, to reduce exposure to unhealthy food options. Additionally, they can introduce taxes on high-calorie, low-nutrient foods, making them less appealing to consumers. Furthermore, governments can invest in public health campaigns to educate the population about the risks associated with excessive fast food consumption and promote healthier eating habits.

On the other hand, proponents of individual responsibility contend that personal choice plays a crucial role in dietary decisions. They argue that in a free society, people should have the autonomy to make their own food choices and face the consequences of those decisions. This view emphasizes the importance of personal accountability and suggests that individuals should take the initiative to educate themselves about nutrition, exercise self-control, and prioritize their health. Moreover, supporters of this perspective might argue that government intervention could be seen as overly paternalistic and infringe on personal freedoms.

In my view, the most effective approach to addressing the health impacts of fast food involves a combination of government action and individual responsibility. While governments can create an environment that promotes healthier choices through regulations, education, and incentives, ultimately, individuals must make the decision to adopt healthier eating habits. Governments can provide the tools and information necessary for making informed choices, but it is up to individuals to utilize these resources and take charge of their own health.

Government and individual responsibility in addressing fast food's impact on health systemsGovernment and individual responsibility in addressing fast food's impact on health systems

In conclusion, while the debate on responsibility for reducing the negative health effects of fast food continues, it is clear that both governments and individuals have important roles to play. A collaborative effort that combines governmental policies with personal accountability is likely to be the most effective strategy in combating the health challenges posed by fast food consumption.

(343 words)

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates the following characteristics of a high-scoring response:

  1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
  2. Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked using a range of cohesive devices.
  3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with good control of collocations and word forms.
  4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A variety of complex sentence structures are used accurately, with only minor errors that do not impede communication.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

In recent years, the negative effects of fast food on people’s health have become a big problem. Some people think the government should do something about it, while others believe it’s up to individuals to take care of their own health. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, those who support government intervention say that the authorities have the power to make big changes. They can make laws to control fast food advertising, especially for kids. They can also put extra taxes on unhealthy food to make it more expensive. Another thing governments can do is start health campaigns to teach people about the dangers of eating too much fast food.

On the other hand, people who think individuals should be responsible say that everyone should have the freedom to choose what they eat. They believe that people should learn about nutrition on their own and make smart choices. This view says that it’s not the government’s job to tell people what to eat, and that we should all take care of our own health.

Public health education campaign on fast food's impactPublic health education campaign on fast food's impact

In my opinion, I think both the government and individuals need to work together to solve this problem. The government can help by making rules and giving people information, but in the end, it’s up to each person to decide what they eat. If we combine government action with personal responsibility, we can make real progress in improving people’s health.

To conclude, while there are different views on who should be responsible for the health effects of fast food, I believe that a mix of government action and individual effort is the best way to tackle this issue.

(298 words)

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates the following characteristics of a mid-range response:

  1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both views and the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
  2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive or mechanical.
  3. Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but more sophisticated lexical items could be used to express ideas more precisely.
  4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

  1. Prevalence (noun) – /ˈprevələns/ – the fact of being widespread or common
  2. Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make less severe or serious
  3. Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntərˈvenʃən/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
  4. Autonomy (noun) – /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government
  5. Paternalistic (adjective) – /pəˌtɜːnəˈlɪstɪk/ – treating people in a fatherly way, especially by providing for their needs without giving them responsibility
  6. Incentive (noun) – /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – something that encourages a person to do something
  7. Collaborative (adjective) – /kəˈlæbərətɪv/ – involving two or more people working together for a special purpose

Key vocabulary for discussing fast food's impact on health systemsKey vocabulary for discussing fast food's impact on health systems

In conclusion, the impact of fast food on health systems is a complex issue that requires a nuanced approach in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. By understanding how to structure your response and use appropriate vocabulary, you can effectively address this topic and achieve a higher band score. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as should governments regulate fast food marketing or the impact of fast food culture on traditional diets. These related subjects will help you develop a broader understanding of the issue and improve your ability to discuss various aspects of fast food’s influence on society and health.

To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will not only help you refine your writing abilities but also allow you to receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam. Additionally, you might want to explore related topics such as the effects of fast food on children’s behavior and learning, which could provide valuable insights for future essays on similar subjects.

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