Restorative justice is an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms since 2019. Based on analysis of past exams, this theme frequently emerges in discussion or opinion essays, particularly in questions about criminal justice reform and social rehabilitation. Let’s examine a recent test question that exemplifies this trend.
Analysis of Question Type
Some people believe that restorative justice (where criminals meet with their victims to understand the consequences of their crimes) should be implemented widely in criminal justice systems. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This is an agree/disagree essay question that requires candidates to express and support their position on implementing restorative justice programs broadly within criminal justice systems.
Restorative justice meeting between offender and victim with mediator present
Band 8 Sample Essay
Crime and punishment have long been debated topics in society, and restorative justice represents a progressive approach to addressing criminal behavior. While this method has shown promise in certain cases, I partially agree that it should be widely implemented, but with important caveats and limitations.
Restorative justice offers several compelling benefits that support its broader implementation. Firstly, it provides victims with an opportunity to achieve emotional closure by directly addressing offenders and expressing the impact of their crimes. This process can be particularly healing for victims of non-violent crimes, helping them overcome trauma and restore their sense of security. Additionally, when criminals must face their victims and understand the consequences of their actions, they are often more likely to feel genuine remorse and less likely to reoffend.
However, the widespread implementation of restorative justice must be approached with careful consideration. Not all crimes are suitable for this approach, particularly serious violent offenses where victim-offender meetings could re-traumatize victims. Furthermore, the success of restorative justice heavily depends on the genuine willingness of both parties to participate constructively. Without proper screening and preparation, these meetings could become counterproductive or even harmful.
I believe the optimal approach is to implement restorative justice selectively, based on specific criteria. The system should be widely available but carefully regulated, with thorough assessment of each case’s suitability. This could include factors such as the nature of the crime, the psychological readiness of both parties, and the potential for meaningful resolution. Moreover, it should complement rather than replace traditional justice systems, serving as an additional tool for rehabilitation and healing.
In conclusion, while restorative justice has merit, its implementation should be widespread but selective, ensuring appropriate application to maximize its benefits while minimizing potential risks. This balanced approach would best serve the interests of both victims and society at large.
Professional flowchart showing restorative justice assessment and implementation process
Band 6 Sample Essay
Restorative justice is becoming more popular in many countries. I agree that it should be used more widely because it can help both criminals and victims.
The main reason why restorative justice is good is because it helps criminals understand what they did wrong. When they meet their victims, they can see how their actions affected other people. For example, if someone steals from a shop, they can learn how this hurts the shop owner’s business and family. This makes them think twice before doing it again.
Also, victims can benefit from this system. They can ask questions to the criminal and understand why the crime happened. Sometimes, this helps them feel less scared and angry. They might also get an apology, which can help them move on with their lives.
However, there are some problems with using this system everywhere. Some criminals might not be sorry for what they did and could make the victim feel worse. Also, for very serious crimes like murder, it might be too difficult for the victim’s family to meet the criminal.
I think restorative justice should be used more, but only in certain situations. The government should check each case carefully before deciding if this method is suitable. Also, both the criminal and victim must want to participate.
In conclusion, restorative justice is a good idea and should be used more often, but not in every case. It needs to be carefully controlled to make sure it helps people instead of causing more problems.
Analysis of Essays
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear, well-developed arguments
- Balanced perspective with nuanced analysis
- Coherent paragraphing with smooth transitions
- Academic tone throughout
Band 6 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear arguments
- Basic vocabulary with some repetition
- Less sophisticated sentence structures
- Limited use of examples
- Some development of ideas but less detailed
Key Vocabulary
- restorative justice (n) /rɪˈstɔːrətɪv ˈdʒʌstɪs/ – justice system focusing on rehabilitation
- rehabilitation (n) /ˌriːəˌbɪlɪˈteɪʃən/ – process of restoring someone to normal life
- recidivism (n) /rɪˈsɪdɪvɪzəm/ – tendency to reoffend
- counterproductive (adj) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – having opposite effect to intended
- trauma (n) /ˈtrɔːmə/ – emotional shock following a stressful event
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- Alternative forms of punishment in the justice system
- The role of rehabilitation vs punishment in prisons
- Community service as a form of criminal sentence
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.
