The topic of drug offender rehabilitation versus punishment has appeared several times in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams, particularly in countries like Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines where drug-related issues are significant social concerns. Based on past exam analysis, this theme typically appears 2-3 times annually, often framed as a discussion or opinion essay.
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that individuals who have committed drug-related crimes should be sent to rehabilitation centers instead of prisons. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question requires candidates to:
- Express their opinion on drug offender treatment
- Compare rehabilitation and punishment approaches
- Support their stance with relevant examples
- Provide a balanced discussion
Band 8 Model Essay
The debate between rehabilitation and incarceration for drug offenders has become increasingly relevant in modern society. While both approaches have their merits, I strongly believe that rehabilitation should be the primary response to drug-related crimes in most cases.
Rehabilitation centers offer several significant advantages over traditional imprisonment. Firstly, they address the root cause of drug-related crimes – addiction itself. Through professional medical care, counseling, and therapy, offenders can overcome their dependence on illegal substances and develop coping mechanisms for long-term recovery. Moreover, rehabilitation programs often include vocational training and life skills development, equipping individuals with the tools they need to reintegrate into society successfully.
The punitive approach of imprisonment, conversely, often fails to address the underlying issues. Prison environments can expose drug offenders to negative influences and potentially worsen their addiction problems. Furthermore, the stigma of incarceration can create significant barriers to employment and social reintegration upon release, increasing the likelihood of recidivism.
However, rehabilitation should be implemented thoughtfully. Not all drug offenders may be suitable candidates for rehabilitation programs, particularly those involved in large-scale trafficking or violent crimes. Therefore, a balanced approach combining rehabilitation for users and appropriate punishment for serious offenders might be most effective.
In conclusion, while both approaches have their place in the justice system, rehabilitation offers a more constructive and humane solution for addressing drug-related crimes, particularly for users and small-scale offenders. This approach not only helps individuals overcome addiction but also contributes to broader societal benefits through reduced recidivism rates.
Band 6.5 Model Essay
I agree that drug offenders should be sent to rehabilitation centers instead of prisons because it can help them recover and return to normal life.
First, rehabilitation centers provide medical treatment and support for drug addicts. They have doctors and counselors who can help people stop using drugs. In prison, people might continue their bad habits or even learn new ones from other criminals. Also, rehabilitation teaches people how to live without drugs and gives them job training.
Another reason is that prisons are often overcrowded and expensive. The government spends a lot of money keeping people in jail. This money could be used better in rehabilitation programs. Many studies show that people who go through rehabilitation are less likely to use drugs again compared to those who go to prison.
However, some drug dealers who sell large amounts of drugs should still go to prison because they harm society. But for people who are caught using drugs, rehabilitation is better than punishment. They need help to overcome their addiction rather than punishment.
In conclusion, I believe rehabilitation is more effective than prison for most drug offenders. It helps them recover and gives them a chance to become useful members of society again. The government should invest more money in rehabilitation centers and programs.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Complex sentence structures
- Sophisticated vocabulary
- Clear organization with cohesive devices
- Well-developed arguments
- Balanced perspective
- Natural paragraph transitions
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear arguments
- Basic vocabulary with some errors
- Less sophisticated structure
- Limited use of complex sentences
- Basic cohesive devices
- Some repetition of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- rehabilitation (n) /ˌriːəˌbɪlɪˈteɪʃən/ – process of helping someone return to normal life
- recidivism (n) /rɪˈsɪdɪvɪzəm/ – tendency to relapse into criminal behavior
- incarceration (n) /ɪnˌkɑːsəˈreɪʃən/ – imprisonment
- punitive (adj) /ˈpjuːnətɪv/ – intended as punishment
- stigma (n) /ˈstɪɡmə/ – mark of disgrace
- vocational (adj) /voʊˈkeɪʃənəl/ – related to skills needed for a job
- reintegration (n) /riːˌɪntɪˈɡreɪʃən/ – process of rejoining society
- deterrent (n) /dɪˈterənt/ – something that discourages an action
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Remember to maintain a clear structure and support your arguments with relevant examples.