Public health education is a critical topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on past trends and current global health concerns, it’s highly likely that questions related to this subject will continue to be prevalent in future tests. Let’s explore a common IELTS question on this topic and analyze how to craft a high-scoring response.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that public health education should be the responsibility of schools, while others think it should be the responsibility of individuals to educate themselves about health issues. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question is a classic example of an IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt that requires you to discuss multiple viewpoints and provide your own perspective. It’s essential to address both sides of the argument and clearly state your position.
Sample Essay (Band 8-9)
In today’s world, where health issues are becoming increasingly complex, the debate over who should be responsible for public health education is more relevant than ever. While some argue that schools should bear this responsibility, others contend that individuals should take charge of their own health education. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both institutions and individuals is the most effective strategy.
Those who advocate for school-based health education argue that educational institutions are ideally positioned to disseminate crucial health information. Schools have the infrastructure and expertise to deliver comprehensive health curricula, ensuring that young people receive accurate and up-to-date information from qualified professionals. Moreover, by integrating health education into the school system, we can ensure that all children, regardless of their background, have access to this vital knowledge, thereby promoting health equity.
On the other hand, proponents of individual responsibility argue that health is a personal matter, and adults should take the initiative to educate themselves. This view emphasizes the importance of personal autonomy and lifelong learning. In an age where information is readily available, individuals can access a wealth of health resources online, through books, or via community programs. This approach can lead to a more personalized understanding of health issues that are particularly relevant to one’s own circumstances.
In my view, the most effective approach is a combination of both institutional and individual efforts. Schools should provide a strong foundation of health knowledge during formative years, covering topics such as nutrition, physical activity, mental health, and disease prevention. This early education can instill healthy habits and provide a baseline understanding of key health concepts. However, health education should not end with formal schooling. Individuals must take responsibility for continuing their health education throughout their lives, staying informed about new developments and adapting their knowledge to their changing health needs.
Furthermore, government and healthcare organizations have a role to play in supporting both school-based programs and individual learning initiatives. By funding public health campaigns, creating accessible educational resources, and promoting health literacy, these institutions can create an environment that encourages ongoing health education for all members of society.
In conclusion, while schools play a crucial role in laying the groundwork for public health education, the responsibility for health learning should be shared among schools, individuals, and supporting institutions. This multi-faceted approach ensures that people of all ages have the knowledge and resources they need to make informed decisions about their health, ultimately leading to a healthier and more resilient society.
(Word count: 395)
Public Health Education
Sample Essay (Band 6-7)
Public health education is an important topic in today’s society. Some people think schools should teach it, while others believe individuals should learn about health on their own. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support school-based health education say that schools are good places to teach about health. Schools can reach many young people and give them important information about staying healthy. They have teachers who know about health topics and can explain them well. This way, all children can learn about health, no matter what their family background is.
On the other hand, some people think individuals should be responsible for their own health education. They say that health is personal, and adults should find information for themselves. With the internet and many books available, people can learn about health topics that are important to them. This can help them understand their own health better.
In my opinion, both schools and individuals have a role in health education. Schools should teach basic health information to children. This can help them start good habits early. But adults should also keep learning about health throughout their lives. Health information changes, and people need to stay up to date.
I think the best approach is to have schools provide a good foundation of health knowledge, and then encourage people to continue learning as adults. The government can help by providing good health information to the public. This way, everyone can have access to important health education.
In conclusion, while schools are important for teaching health to young people, individuals should also take responsibility for their own health education. A combination of both approaches is the best way to ensure that everyone has the knowledge they need to stay healthy.
(Word count: 295)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.
Language: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.
Argument Development: The higher band essay provides more detailed explanations and examples to support its points, while the lower band essay offers more straightforward arguments.
Opinion: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8-9 essay integrates it more smoothly into the overall argument.
Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better use of cohesive devices and logical flow between ideas.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
Public health education (noun) – /ˈpʌblɪk hɛlθ ˌɛdʒʊˈkeɪʃən/ – The process of educating the public about health issues and promoting healthy behaviors.
Health literacy (noun) – /hɛlθ ˈlɪtərəsi/ – The ability to obtain, read, understand, and use healthcare information to make appropriate health decisions.
Health equity (noun) – /hɛlθ ˈɛkwɪti/ – The absence of unfair, avoidable differences in health among population groups.
Curricula (noun) – /kəˈrɪkjʊlə/ – The subjects comprising a course of study in a school or college.
Autonomy (noun) – /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – The right or condition of self-government; freedom from external control or influence.
Disseminate (verb) – /dɪˈsɛmɪneɪt/ – To spread information widely.
Resilient (adjective) – /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
Multi-faceted (adjective) – /mʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
Conclusion
The importance of public health education is a topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its significance in our modern world. As you practice writing essays on this subject, remember to consider various perspectives, use appropriate vocabulary, and structure your arguments clearly. You may encounter similar questions about the role of schools versus individual responsibility in other areas, such as environmental education or financial literacy.
To further improve your writing skills, try crafting your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article, preparing you for success in your IELTS Writing Task 2.