IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Governments Impose Higher Taxes on Sugary Drinks? (Sample Essays for Different Band Scores)

The topic of whether governments should impose higher taxes on sugary drinks has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This issue combines elements of public health, government policy, and individual freedom, making it a rich subject for discussion. Based on analysis of past IELTS exams and current global trends, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this subject in depth with sample essays for different band scores.

Sugary drinks tax debate

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that governments should impose higher taxes on sugary drinks to improve public health. Others believe this approach is unfair and ineffective. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that higher taxes on sugary drinks can improve public health
2. Explain why some people think this approach is unfair and ineffective
3. Provide your own opinion on the issue

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your own viewpoint.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The proposal to increase taxes on sugary beverages as a means to enhance public health has sparked considerable debate. While proponents argue that this measure could effectively reduce sugar consumption and combat obesity, critics contend that it is an unfair and inefficient approach. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own stance on the issue.

Those in favor of higher taxes on sugary drinks believe that this policy can significantly improve public health outcomes. They argue that increased prices would discourage excessive consumption of these beverages, particularly among young people and low-income groups who are most vulnerable to obesity and related health issues. Moreover, the additional revenue generated from these taxes could be channeled into health education programs or subsidies for healthier food options, further promoting overall well-being. Countries like Mexico have already implemented such taxes with some success, reporting a decrease in sugary drink purchases.

On the other hand, opponents of this approach claim it is both unfair and ineffective. They argue that it disproportionately affects lower-income individuals, who may rely more on these affordable beverages. Critics also point out that people might simply switch to other high-calorie foods or drinks, negating the intended health benefits. Furthermore, they contend that education and promoting healthier lifestyles would be more effective than punitive measures in addressing public health concerns.

In my opinion, while higher taxes on sugary drinks alone may not be a panacea for public health issues, they can be an effective part of a comprehensive strategy. I believe that combining such fiscal measures with robust education programs and improved access to healthy alternatives could yield significant positive outcomes. However, it is crucial to implement these taxes thoughtfully, ensuring that they do not unduly burden lower-income groups and that the revenue is transparently used for public health initiatives.

In conclusion, the debate over taxing sugary drinks highlights the complex interplay between public health, government policy, and individual choice. While there are valid arguments on both sides, I believe that carefully implemented taxes, as part of a broader health strategy, can contribute to improving public health without being overly punitive or unfair.

(Word count: 339)

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “moreover,” “on the other hand,” “furthermore”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “proponents,” “vulnerable,” “channeled,” “panacea”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: It uses a variety of complex structures accurately (e.g., “While proponents argue that…”, “Critics also point out that…”).

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Many people think that governments should put higher taxes on sugary drinks to make people healthier. But others say this is not fair and won’t work well. I will talk about both sides and give my opinion.

People who support higher taxes on sugary drinks say it can help public health. They think that if these drinks cost more, people will buy less of them. This could help reduce problems like obesity, especially for young people and poor people who drink a lot of these drinks. Also, the government can use the extra money from taxes to teach people about healthy eating or make healthy food cheaper.

However, some people disagree with this idea. They say it’s not fair because it affects poor people more, as they often buy these drinks. They also think people might just buy other unhealthy foods instead, so it won’t really help. These people believe that teaching people about healthy living is better than making drinks more expensive.

In my opinion, I think higher taxes on sugary drinks can be helpful, but it’s not enough on its own. Governments should use a mix of methods to improve public health. This could include taxes, but also better education about healthy eating and making healthy food more available and affordable. It’s important to make sure that poor people are not unfairly affected by these taxes.

To conclude, while taxing sugary drinks more can help improve public health, it should be part of a bigger plan. Governments need to think carefully about how to make people healthier without being unfair to any group of people.

(Word count: 276)

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, but the discussion could be more in-depth.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but lacks the sophistication of a higher band score essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but could benefit from more varied structures.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be developed further with more specific examples or explanations.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Impose (verb) /ɪmˈpəʊz/ – to introduce something such as a new law, rule, or tax
2. Obesity (noun) /əʊˈbiːsəti/ – the state of being very fat or overweight
3. Disproportionately (adverb) /ˌdɪsprəˈpɔːʃənətli/ – in a way that is too large or too small in comparison with something else
4. Panacea (noun) /ˌpænəˈsiːə/ – something that will solve all problems
5. Punitive (adjective) /ˈpjuːnətɪv/ – intended as a punishment
6. Subsidies (noun) /ˈsʌbsədi/ – money given as part of the cost of something, to help or encourage it to happen
7. Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – including everything that is necessary
8. Fiscal (adjective) /ˈfɪskəl/ – relating to government money and taxes

Conclusion

The topic of government taxation on sugary drinks is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. It touches on public health, economics, and social responsibility, making it an excellent subject for testing candidates’ ability to discuss multifaceted topics. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics that combine health, government policy, and social issues.

Some potential related topics you might encounter could include:

• The role of government in promoting healthy lifestyles
• Banning junk food advertisements targeting children
• Implementing sugar taxes on other food products

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to fully address the question, provide a balanced discussion, and clearly state your own opinion. Practice writing essays on various topics and ask for feedback to improve your skills. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for community feedback and discussion.