The topic of taxing fast food companies to fund public health programs has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on an analysis of past exam questions and current trends, this subject is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s examine a specific question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that governments should tax unhealthy foods to encourage people to eat healthier. Others think this is not the government’s responsibility and people should choose what they eat. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should tax unhealthy foods
- Discuss the opposing view that this is not the government’s responsibility
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
The question touches on issues of public health, government intervention, personal freedom, and individual responsibility. A well-structured essay should address all these aspects.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate over whether governments should impose taxes on unhealthy foods to promote better eating habits is a contentious issue. While some argue that such measures are necessary for public health, others contend that dietary choices should remain a matter of personal responsibility. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of taxing unhealthy foods argue that government intervention is crucial in addressing the growing obesity epidemic and related health issues. They contend that by making junk food more expensive, people will be discouraged from consuming it regularly, leading to improved public health outcomes. Moreover, the revenue generated from these taxes could be channeled into health education programs or subsidies for healthier food options, further promoting better nutrition across society.
On the other hand, opponents of this approach argue that it infringes on personal freedom and individual choice. They believe that people should have the right to make their own dietary decisions without government interference. Additionally, critics point out that such taxes often disproportionately affect lower-income groups, who may rely more heavily on cheaper, processed foods due to financial constraints or lack of access to fresh produce.
In my opinion, while I recognize the importance of personal freedom, I believe that governments have a responsibility to protect public health. The long-term costs of obesity and related diseases to healthcare systems and society at large justify some level of intervention. However, I think that a balanced approach is necessary. Rather than solely relying on taxation, governments should implement a combination of measures including improved nutrition education, better food labeling, and incentives for healthier food production and consumption.
In conclusion, while the taxation of unhealthy foods is a complex issue with valid arguments on both sides, I believe that carefully implemented government policies can play a positive role in promoting public health without excessively infringing on personal freedoms. The key lies in finding the right balance between incentivizing healthier choices and respecting individual autonomy.
(Word count: 309)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of linking words (“On the other hand”, “Moreover”, “Additionally”).
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately (“contentious issue”, “obesity epidemic”, “disproportionately affect”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors (“While some argue that such measures are necessary for public health, others contend that dietary choices should remain a matter of personal responsibility.”).
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Critical Thinking: The essay demonstrates a nuanced understanding of the issue, acknowledging the complexity of the debate and proposing a balanced approach.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Nowadays, some people think the government should put higher taxes on unhealthy foods to make people eat better. But others say it’s not the government’s job and people should choose their own food. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Those who support taxing unhealthy foods say it can help solve health problems like obesity. When junk food becomes more expensive, people might buy less of it. The money from these taxes could be used for health programs or to make healthy food cheaper. This could help people eat better and be healthier.
However, some people disagree with this idea. They think the government shouldn’t tell people what to eat. They believe everyone should have the freedom to choose their own food. Also, these taxes might be unfair to poor people who often buy cheaper, unhealthy food because they can’t afford better options.
In my opinion, I think the government should do something to help people be healthier, but taxing food might not be the best way. Instead, they could focus on teaching people about healthy eating and making sure everyone can get good food easily. This way, people can make better choices on their own.
To conclude, while taxing unhealthy foods might help some people eat better, it’s important to consider everyone’s rights and situations. I believe education and making healthy food more available are better ways to improve public health.
(Word count: 245)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (“However”, “Also”, “To conclude”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay (“put higher taxes” instead of “impose taxes”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but with less variety than the Band 8-9 essay. There are some minor errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Critical Thinking: The essay presents relevant ideas but with less depth and nuance compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Obesity epidemic (noun phrase) – /əʊˈbiːsɪti epɪˈdemɪk/ – A widespread occurrence of obesity in a population
- Disproportionately (adverb) – /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənətli/ – To a degree that is too large or too small in comparison with something else
- Infringe (verb) – /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – To limit or undermine something
- Incentivize (verb) – /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/ – To encourage or motivate someone to do something
- Channeled (verb, past tense) – /ˈtʃænld/ – Directed towards a particular end or object
- Contentious (adjective) – /kənˈtenʃəs/ – Causing or likely to cause disagreement
- Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – The action of becoming involved in a difficult situation in order to improve it or prevent it from getting worse
- Subsidies (noun, plural) – /ˈsʌbsɪdiz/ – Money given by a government or organization to reduce the cost of a product or service
In conclusion, the topic of taxing fast food companies to fund public health programs is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of various perspectives. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of government in regulating food industry advertising
- Mandatory nutrition education in schools
- Subsidies for organic farming and local food production
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, organize your ideas clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.