The topic of banning fast food advertisements to prevent obesity has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and current societal concerns, this subject is likely to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis.
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people think that governments should ban dangerous sports, while others think people should have freedom to choose their activities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on the role of government in regulating fast food advertisements. It’s crucial to:
- Discuss arguments for banning fast food ads
- Discuss arguments against banning fast food ads
- Provide your own opinion
Let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Fast food advertisements have become ubiquitous in modern society, and their potential link to rising obesity rates has sparked debate about whether governments should intervene. While some argue for a blanket ban on such advertisements to combat obesity, others contend that this infringes on personal freedom and corporate rights. This essay will explore both perspectives before offering a nuanced opinion on the matter.
Proponents of banning fast food advertisements argue that these marketing strategies significantly contribute to unhealthy eating habits, particularly among children and young adults. They contend that constant exposure to appealing images of calorie-dense, nutrient-poor foods normalizes poor dietary choices and undermines public health initiatives. Furthermore, advocates point to successful precedents, such as restrictions on tobacco advertising, which have contributed to reduced smoking rates. By limiting the visibility of fast food, they argue, governments can create an environment more conducive to healthy eating habits.
On the other hand, opponents of such bans emphasize the importance of personal responsibility and freedom of choice. They argue that individuals should have the right to make informed decisions about their diet without government interference. Additionally, they contend that advertising bans could have unintended economic consequences, potentially harming businesses and employees in the food service industry. Critics also question the effectiveness of advertising bans, suggesting that obesity is a complex issue influenced by various factors beyond marketing alone.
In my opinion, while I recognize the concerns about obesity and the influence of advertising, a complete ban on fast food advertisements is an overly simplistic solution to a multifaceted problem. Instead, I believe a more balanced approach would be more effective. This could include stricter regulations on advertisements targeting children, mandatory health warnings similar to those on cigarette packages, and increased funding for public health education campaigns. These measures would help mitigate the negative impacts of fast food advertising while still respecting individual autonomy and commercial freedoms.
In conclusion, the debate over banning fast food advertisements highlights the tension between public health concerns and individual liberties. While both sides present valid arguments, I believe that a nuanced, multi-pronged approach that combines regulation, education, and personal responsibility is the most promising path forward in addressing the complex issue of obesity.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and meets all the criteria for a high band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features. Note the use of words like “ubiquitous,” “nuanced,” and “multifaceted.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of structures is used with full flexibility and accuracy. Complex sentences are handled with ease.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, fast food ads are everywhere and some people think the government should ban them to stop obesity. But others say this is not fair and people should be free to choose. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who want to ban fast food ads say they make people eat unhealthy food, especially kids. They think if we see less of these ads, we will eat better food and be healthier. Also, they say it worked for cigarettes, so it can work for fast food too. If the government bans these ads, it might help people make better choices about what they eat.
On the other hand, some people think banning ads is not right. They say we should be able to decide for ourselves what to eat. They also worry that if we ban ads, it might hurt businesses and people might lose their jobs. They think there are other reasons why people are overweight, not just because of ads.
In my opinion, I think banning all fast food ads is too much. Instead, I think we should have some rules about ads for kids and maybe put warnings on the ads like we do for cigarettes. We should also teach people more about healthy eating. This way, we can help people make better choices without taking away their freedom.
To conclude, while some people want to ban fast food ads to stop obesity, others think this is not fair. I believe we need a mix of different solutions to help people be healthier without banning all ads.
(Word count: 270)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates a competent use of English and meets the criteria for a Band 6-7 score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though some parts are more fully covered than others.
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Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but cohesive devices are not always used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: An adequate range of vocabulary is used for the task. There are attempts at less common vocabulary, though with some inaccuracy.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence forms is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Ubiquitous (adjective) /juːˈbɪkwɪtəs/ – present, appearing, or found everywhere
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action or process of intervening
- Precedent (noun) /ˈpresɪdənt/ – an earlier event or action that is regarded as an example or guide to be considered in subsequent similar circumstances
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – make less severe, serious, or painful
- Conducive (adjective) /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible
Conclusion
The topic of banning fast food advertisements to prevent obesity is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. As you can see from the sample essays, a well-structured argument that addresses both sides of the debate and provides a clear personal opinion is key to achieving a high band score.
To prepare for similar topics, consider practicing with these related questions:
- Should governments regulate the content of food advertisements targeting children?
- Is education or legislation more effective in combating obesity?
- To what extent are individuals responsible for their own health choices in the face of pervasive advertising?
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.