The topic of rehabilitation in criminal justice has consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly during 2019-2023. Based on analysis of past papers, questions about prisoner rehabilitation and justice system reform have appeared approximately 3-4 times per year, making it a significant recurring theme that test-takers should prepare for.
Analysis of Past Exam Questions
One frequently appearing question format is:
Some people believe that prisoners should be rehabilitated and trained for a job during their time in prison, while others think prisons should only be used to punish criminals. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Key Requirements
- Discuss two contrasting views on prison purpose
- Present arguments for rehabilitation and punishment
- Provide personal perspective with supporting reasons
- Maintain balanced analysis while expressing clear position
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
There is ongoing debate about whether prisons should focus on rehabilitating inmates through job training or solely serve as punishment centers. While both approaches have merit, I strongly believe that rehabilitation should be the primary focus of incarceration.
Those who advocate for punishment-only prisons argue that the main purpose of imprisonment is to deter crime and ensure justice. They contend that comfortable prison conditions and educational programs undermine the deterrent effect and may even encourage criminal behavior. Furthermore, they believe that investing in prisoner rehabilitation programs is a misuse of taxpayers’ money that could be better spent on law-abiding citizens.
However, the rehabilitation approach offers more substantial long-term benefits for society. When prisoners receive vocational training and counseling, they are significantly more likely to secure employment upon release, reducing recidivism rates. Countries like Norway, which emphasizes rehabilitation, have seen remarkably low reoffending rates of around 20% compared to 60% in punishment-focused systems. Additionally, skills development programs help former inmates become productive citizens who contribute to the economy rather than burden it.
From my perspective, while punishment is necessary, rehabilitation should be the cornerstone of any effective criminal justice system. The cost of implementing rehabilitation programs is far outweighed by the societal benefits of reduced crime rates and lower reincarceration expenses. Moreover, this approach acknowledges the potential for human reform and aligns with the fundamental principle that justice systems should aim to improve society rather than merely exact revenge.
In conclusion, although punitive measures have their place, prioritizing rehabilitation through education and job training represents the most effective approach to reducing crime and creating a safer society. The evidence from successful rehabilitation-focused systems demonstrates that this strategy benefits both individual offenders and society as a whole.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
The role of prisons in society is debated by many people. Some think prisons should help criminals learn jobs, while others say prisons should only punish bad people. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support punishment say criminals deserve to suffer for their crimes. They think if prison is too nice, other people might not be scared to commit crimes. Also, they say it’s not fair to spend money helping criminals when many good people need help too.
On the other hand, teaching prisoners new skills can help them get jobs after prison. When they can work, they don’t need to steal or do bad things anymore. For example, in some countries, prisoners can learn computer skills or cooking, and this helps them find work later. This is good for society because these people don’t commit more crimes.
I think both punishment and rehabilitation are important, but teaching skills is more helpful. If we only punish people, they might become angry and commit more crimes when they leave prison. But if we help them learn useful skills, they can change their lives and become better citizens.
To conclude, while prisons need to punish criminals, they should also focus on teaching them job skills. This helps reduce crime and makes society safer for everyone.
Scoring Analysis
-
Band 8.0 Essay:
- Clear, sophisticated argument structure
- Advanced vocabulary and complex sentences
- Strong topic development and cohesion
- Well-supported examples and analysis
-
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Basic but clear organization
- Limited vocabulary range
- Simple but accurate grammar
- Some development of ideas but less sophisticated
Key Vocabulary
- rehabilitation (n) /ˌriːəˌbɪlɪˈteɪʃən/ – the process of helping someone return to normal life
- recidivism (n) /rɪˈsɪdɪvɪzəm/ – tendency to relapse into criminal behavior
- deterrent (n) /dɪˈterənt/ – something that discourages certain behavior
- incarceration (n) /ɪnˌkɑːsəˈreɪʃən/ – imprisonment
- vocational (adj) /voʊˈkeɪʃənl/ – related to skills needed for a particular job
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- Role of education in prisoner reform
- Alternative punishment methods in justice systems
- Cost-effectiveness of rehabilitation programs
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.