The topic of gambling advertisements and their potential ban has appeared multiple times in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly in countries where gambling is a significant social issue. Based on analysis of past IELTS tests, this topic has appeared in various forms during 2019-2023, especially in countries like Australia, Singapore, and the UK where gambling advertisement regulations are actively debated.
Let’s examine one of the most commonly encountered question types on this topic:
Some people believe that gambling advertisements should be banned completely, while others think they should be regulated but not banned. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
The impact of gambling advertisements on modern society through various media channels
Analysis of the Question
- Topic: Gambling advertisement regulation
- Task: Discussion + Opinion
- Two viewpoints to address:
- Complete ban on gambling advertisements
- Regulation without complete ban
- Key requirements: Discuss both perspectives and provide personal stance
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
In recent years, the debate over gambling advertisements has intensified, with some advocating for their complete prohibition while others support regulated advertising. While both perspectives have merit, I believe strict regulation rather than an outright ban would be more effective.
Those supporting a complete ban argue that gambling advertisements can have devastating effects on society. These promotions often glamorize gambling and create unrealistic expectations of winning, potentially leading vulnerable individuals, especially youth and those with addictive tendencies, into financial hardship. Moreover, the constant exposure to such advertisements can normalize gambling behavior and make it appear as a harmless entertainment option rather than a risky activity.
Visual representation of gambling regulation effectiveness across different policy approaches
However, proponents of regulation without prohibition present compelling counterarguments. They contend that legal gambling operations need legitimate channels to communicate with their market, and a complete ban could drive advertising underground through unofficial channels, making it harder to monitor and control. Furthermore, advertising revenue from gambling companies often supports various sectors, including sports and entertainment, and an absolute ban could impact these industries significantly.
In my opinion, strict regulation is the most practical solution. This approach would allow for necessary business communication while protecting vulnerable populations. Regulations could include restrictions on advertising timing, content guidelines prohibiting misleading claims, mandatory warning messages, and complete bans on advertisements targeting young people. This balanced approach would help maintain economic benefits while minimizing social harm.
To conclude, while the concern about gambling advertisements is justified, implementing comprehensive regulations rather than a complete ban would better serve society’s interests. This solution allows for responsible business practices while protecting vulnerable individuals through careful oversight and restrictions.
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
Gambling advertisements are a controversial topic in many countries. Some people want to stop all gambling ads, while others think they should just be controlled better. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who want to ban gambling ads completely have good reasons. These advertisements can make people spend too much money on gambling, especially young people who see them on social media and TV. They also show gambling as something fun and easy to win, which isn’t true. Many families have problems because someone loses too much money gambling after seeing these attractive ads.
Those who support regulation instead of banning have different ideas. They say that gambling companies need to advertise their business like other companies. If we ban all ads, people might see illegal gambling ads that are harder to control. Also, many sports teams and TV channels get money from gambling ads, so a complete ban would cause problems for them.
I think the best solution is to have strong rules about gambling ads but not ban them completely. We should make rules about when these ads can be shown and what they can say. For example, they shouldn’t be allowed during children’s TV shows or make false promises about winning money. This way, we can protect people while still letting legal businesses operate.
In conclusion, while gambling ads can be dangerous, controlling them with good rules is better than banning them completely. This helps both businesses and protects people from gambling problems.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with well-developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary with natural and precise usage
- Grammatical Range: Complex structures used accurately
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses main aspects but with less depth
- Coherence and Cohesion: Clear overall organization but simpler linking
- Lexical Resource: Good vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammatical Range: Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- glamorize (v) /ˈɡlæməraɪz/ – make something appear more attractive or exciting
- devastating (adj) /ˈdevəsteɪtɪŋ/ – highly destructive or damaging
- prohibition (n) /ˌprəʊɪˈbɪʃən/ – the action of forbidding something
- vulnerable (adj) /ˈvʌlnərəbl/ – susceptible to harm
- counterarguments (n) /ˈkaʊntərˌɑːɡjumənt/ – arguments opposing a proposal
- regulatory (adj) /ˈreɡjələtɔːri/ – relating to control by rules
- oversight (n) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – supervision and monitoring
- legitimate (adj) /lɪˈdʒɪtɪmət/ – conforming to rules or standards
For practice, try writing your own essay about gambling advertisement regulations in your country, considering specific cultural and social contexts. Share your essay in the comments for feedback and discussion.
