Obesity has been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually in recent years. Based on analysis of past exam papers, questions about obesity often focus on causes, solutions, and responsibility distribution between individuals and society. Let’s examine one common question type that has appeared multiple times.
Read more about the government’s role in addressing obesity challenges
Obesity as both personal and societal issue illustrated through lifestyle choices
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that obesity is an individual’s own fault, while others think society is responsible for this problem. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires:
- Examining both perspectives on obesity responsibility
- Providing supporting arguments for each view
- Expressing and justifying a personal opinion
- Following a clear essay structure
Band 8 Sample Essay
Obesity has become a global health crisis, sparking debate about whether individuals or society bears greater responsibility. While both factors contribute to this issue, I believe personal choices play the more decisive role in weight management.
Those who blame society highlight several valid points. The prevalence of fast-food chains, aggressive marketing of unhealthy products, and urban designs that discourage physical activity all create an “obesogenic” environment. Additionally, many people work long hours in sedentary jobs, leaving little time for exercise or preparing healthy meals. Economic factors also play a role, as processed foods are often cheaper than nutritious alternatives.
However, I argue that individual responsibility remains paramount. Despite environmental challenges, people ultimately control their dietary choices and physical activity levels. Many individuals maintain healthy weights despite facing the same societal pressures, demonstrating that personal discipline and informed decision-making can overcome environmental obstacles. Furthermore, numerous free resources exist for nutrition education and exercise, making healthy living accessible to those who prioritize it.
The most effective approach combines personal responsibility with societal support. While individuals must make conscious choices about their lifestyle, society can facilitate these choices through better urban planning, food labeling regulations, and health education programs. This balanced approach acknowledges both personal agency and environmental influences.
In conclusion, while societal factors influence obesity rates, individual choices and commitment to healthy living remain the primary determinants of body weight. The solution lies in personal accountability supported by positive societal changes.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, obesity is becoming a serious problem in many countries. Some people think it’s the fault of individuals, but others say society is to blame. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, many believe that getting fat is a personal choice. People choose what food they eat and how much exercise they do. Nobody forces them to eat junk food or sit on the couch all day. Also, there is lots of information about healthy eating on the internet and TV, so people should know better.
However, society also plays a big role in this problem. Fast food restaurants are everywhere, and unhealthy snacks are cheaper than vegetables and fruits. TV shows lots of advertisements for unhealthy food, especially targeting children. Also, many people work long hours and don’t have time to cook healthy meals or exercise.
In my opinion, both individuals and society share responsibility for obesity. While people should try to make better choices about their health, the government and companies should also help by making healthy options more available and affordable.
To solve this problem, people need to take control of their diet and exercise more, but society should support them by providing better facilities and education about healthy living.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “obesogenic,” “paramount,” “sedentary”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Well-developed arguments
- Appropriate academic tone
- Effective use of cohesive devices
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simpler vocabulary and structures
- Basic but clear arguments
- Some repetition
- Less sophisticated transitions
- More informal tone at times
- Limited range of expression
Key Vocabulary
- obesogenic (adj) /əʊˌbiːsəˈdʒenɪk/ – tending to cause obesity
- sedentary (adj) /ˈsed.ən.tər.i/ – involving little physical activity
- paramount (adj) /ˈpær.ə.maʊnt/ – most important
- prevalence (n) /ˈprev.əl.əns/ – widespread existence
- facilitate (v) /fəˈsɪl.ɪ.teɪt/ – make easier
- accountability (n) /əˌkaʊn.təˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – responsibility for one’s actions
Conclusion
For future practice, consider these related topics:
- Role of schools in preventing childhood obesity
- Impact of technology on obesity rates
- Economic aspects of obesity prevention
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Remember to maintain a balanced perspective and support your arguments with relevant examples.
