Social services and public health have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam questions. This topic’s relevance has increased significantly since 2020, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared. Let’s examine some actual exam questions and provide sample essays with detailed analysis.
Question Analysis and Sample Essays
Some people believe that governments should provide free social and healthcare services, while others think individuals should pay for these services. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question reflects a common debate about why public health services should be free for all, challenging test-takers to evaluate different perspectives on healthcare funding.
Healthcare services debate showing public vs private funding models
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
The debate over whether social and healthcare services should be government-funded or individually financed is crucial to modern healthcare policy. While both approaches have merit, I believe a hybrid system would be most beneficial.
Those advocating for free government services argue that healthcare is a fundamental human right. When governments provide these services, it ensures universal access regardless of socioeconomic status. For example, in countries like Canada and the UK, universal healthcare systems have significantly reduced health disparities and improved overall public health outcomes.
However, proponents of individual payment systems contend that this approach promotes responsible usage and maintains service quality. They argue that when people pay for services, they value them more and use them judiciously. For instance, in Singapore, the co-payment system has successfully balanced accessibility with sustainability while maintaining high-quality healthcare standards.
In my view, the optimal solution lies in a combined approach. Governments should provide essential healthcare services while implementing nominal fees for specialized treatments. This system would ensure role of social services in improving public health outcomes while promoting responsible usage and financial sustainability.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
These days, there is a big discussion about who should pay for social and healthcare services. Some people think the government should pay, while others believe individuals should pay themselves. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
When the government provides free services, many people can benefit. Poor people can get treatment when they are sick without worrying about money. For example, in many countries, free vaccination programs help prevent diseases in the community. This is good for everyone’s health.
However, some people say individuals should pay for these services. They think this will make people more careful about using healthcare services. Also, when people pay, hospitals can get more money to buy better equipment. For example, in private hospitals, patients often get faster service because they pay more.
I think both sides have good points, but I agree more with free healthcare. This is because health is very important, and everyone should have access to it. Maybe the government can make some services free and charge a small fee for others.
Universal healthcare access showing diverse population receiving medical care
Band Score Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (9.0): Comprehensive coverage of both views with clear position
- Coherence and Cohesion (8.5): Excellent paragraph organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource (8.5): Sophisticated vocabulary use
- Grammar (8.5): Complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (6.5): Basic coverage of main points
- Coherence and Cohesion (6.5): Simple but clear organization
- Lexical Resource (6.5): Limited but adequate vocabulary
- Grammar (6.5): Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- socioeconomic status (n.) /ˌsəʊsɪəʊˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ˈsteɪtəs/ – social and economic position
- disparities (n.) /dɪˈspærətiz/ – differences or inequalities
- fundamental (adj.) /ˌfʌndəˈmentl/ – basic and essential
- accessibility (n.) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – ability to be reached or obtained
- sustainability (n.) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain at a certain level
The impact of the impact of mental health services on community health continues to be a crucial aspect of this discussion. As healthcare costs rise, understanding importance of planning for rising healthcare costs becomes increasingly vital.
Consider practicing with similar topics like:
- The role of private insurance in healthcare
- Government spending priorities in healthcare
- Universal basic healthcare implementation challenges
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and improvement suggestions.
