The topic of regulating fast food chains to prevent obesity is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. This issue has appeared in various forms in past exams and is likely to continue being a relevant topic for future tests. Its frequency can be attributed to its global significance and the ongoing debate surrounding public health and corporate responsibility.
Let’s examine a specific question that has been observed in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that governments should regulate fast food chains to prevent obesity. Others believe it is the responsibility of individuals to make healthy food choices. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should regulate fast food chains
- Discuss the opposing view that individuals are responsible for their food choices
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Obesity has become a global health crisis, and the role of fast food chains in this epidemic has sparked heated debates. While some advocate for governmental intervention to curb the problem, others argue that personal responsibility should prevail. In my opinion, a balanced approach incorporating both government regulation and individual accountability is the most effective solution.
Proponents of government regulation argue that the ubiquity and aggressive marketing of fast food chains significantly contribute to rising obesity rates. They contend that these corporations prioritize profits over public health, necessitating governmental oversight. Regulations could include mandatory calorie labeling, restrictions on advertising to children, and limits on portion sizes. Such measures have proven effective in some countries, leading to increased awareness and healthier food choices.
On the other hand, those who emphasize individual responsibility maintain that people should have the freedom to make their own dietary decisions. They argue that education and personal discipline are key to combating obesity, not governmental interference in the free market. This perspective holds that individuals are capable of making informed choices and should bear the consequences of their actions, including their food consumption habits.
In my view, a comprehensive approach that combines both viewpoints is most likely to yield positive results. Governments should indeed implement regulations to create an environment conducive to healthier choices. This could involve policies such as subsidizing nutritious foods, imposing taxes on sugary beverages, and mandating clear nutritional information. However, these measures should be complemented by robust public health education campaigns that empower individuals to make informed decisions.
Ultimately, while government regulations can provide a framework for healthier eating, the onus is on individuals to make conscious choices about their diet. By fostering a societal environment that promotes health while respecting personal freedom, we can strike a balance between regulation and individual responsibility in tackling the obesity crisis.
(Word count: 297)
Band 6-7 Essay
The issue of obesity is a growing concern worldwide, and there are different opinions on how to address it. Some people think the government should control fast food restaurants, while others believe it’s up to individuals to choose healthy food. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support government regulation argue that fast food chains are partly responsible for the obesity problem. They say these companies use clever marketing to make people eat unhealthy food, especially targeting children. They believe that if the government sets rules, like making restaurants show calorie information or limiting ads, it could help reduce obesity rates.
On the other hand, people who emphasize personal responsibility say that we should be free to choose what we eat. They argue that it’s not the government’s job to tell us what to eat, and that people should learn about nutrition and make their own decisions. They think education is more important than rules in solving the obesity problem.
In my opinion, both the government and individuals have a role to play in preventing obesity. I believe some regulations are necessary to create a healthier food environment. For example, the government could require clear labeling of ingredients and calories in fast food. However, I also think people need to take responsibility for their own health and make informed choices about what they eat.
To conclude, while government regulations can help, they are not the only solution. A combination of sensible rules and personal responsibility is the best way to tackle the obesity problem. Education about healthy eating should be a priority, alongside some regulation of the fast food industry.
(Word count: 270)
Band 5-6 Essay
Obesity is a big problem today. Some people think the government should control fast food restaurants to stop obesity. Other people think it’s the responsibility of individuals to eat healthy food. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
People who want government control say fast food is not healthy. They think if the government makes rules, it will help people eat better. For example, the government can make fast food restaurants show how many calories are in their food. This might help people choose healthier options.
But other people say we should choose our own food. They think the government shouldn’t tell us what to eat. They believe people should learn about healthy food and make their own choices. They say it’s our responsibility to eat well.
I think both ideas are important. The government can help by making some rules about fast food. But people also need to be responsible for what they eat. We need to learn about healthy food and make good choices.
In conclusion, I believe both the government and individuals have a role in preventing obesity. The government can make some rules, but people also need to take care of their own health.
(Word count: 184)
Explaining the Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates:
- Excellent coherence and cohesion with clear progression of ideas
- Wide range of vocabulary used accurately and flexibly (e.g., “ubiquity”, “aggressive marketing”, “necessitating”)
- Variety of complex sentence structures
- Thorough discussion of both viewpoints with a clear personal opinion
- Relevant examples and elaboration supporting each point
Band 6-7 Essay
This essay shows:
- Clear overall progression, though with less sophisticated linking
- Good range of vocabulary, generally used appropriately
- Mix of simple and complex sentence structures
- Addresses all parts of the task, though with less depth than the Band 8-9 essay
- Some relevant examples, but less fully developed
Band 5-6 Essay
This essay exhibits:
- Basic organization of ideas, but less clear progression
- Limited range of vocabulary, with some repetition
- Mainly simple sentence structures
- Attempts to address the task, but with minimal elaboration
- Few examples and limited development of ideas
Key Vocabulary
- Regulate (verb) /ˈreɡjʊleɪt/ – to control or supervise something by means of rules
- Obesity (noun) /əʊˈbiːsɪti/ – the state of being very fat or overweight
- Ubiquity (noun) /juːˈbɪkwɪti/ – the state of being everywhere
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – the fact of being responsible for your decisions or actions
- Conducive (adjective) /kənˈdjuːsɪv/ – making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible
- Empower (verb) /ɪmˈpaʊə(r)/ – to give someone the authority or power to do something
- Onus (noun) /ˈəʊnəs/ – the responsibility or duty to do something
Conclusion
The topic of regulating fast food chains to prevent obesity is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. It touches on important themes such as public health, government intervention, and personal responsibility. When approaching this topic, remember to:
- Discuss both viewpoints thoroughly
- Provide relevant examples and explanations
- Clearly state your own opinion
- Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures
- Organize your essay coherently
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The role of education in promoting healthy eating habits
- The impact of fast food advertising on children’s health
- The effectiveness of sugar taxes in reducing obesity rates
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.