IELTS Writing Task 2: Should Governments Impose Stricter Regulations on Fast Food Chains? (Sample Essays for Band 7 and 8)

The topic of government regulations on fast food chains is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and past exam patterns, it’s likely to appear in future tests. This subject is particularly relevant for candidates from Vietnam, where the fast food industry has been rapidly expanding in recent years. Let’s examine a sample question and provide model essays for different band scores.

Government regulations on fast food chains

Analyzing the Question

Let’s consider the following question:

Some people believe that governments should impose stricter regulations on fast food chains. Others think that individuals should take responsibility for their own diet and health. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question requires you to:

1. Discuss the view that governments should impose stricter regulations on fast food chains
2. Discuss the opposing view that individuals should be responsible for their own diet and health
3. Provide your own opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score.

Sample Essay for Band 8

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8 range:

In recent years, the proliferation of fast food chains has raised concerns about public health, leading to debates about whether governments should intervene or if individuals should bear the responsibility for their dietary choices. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Proponents of stricter government regulations argue that fast food chains contribute significantly to the obesity epidemic and related health issues. They contend that these businesses prioritize profits over public health, often using aggressive marketing tactics and addictive ingredients to attract customers. Stricter regulations, such as mandatory calorie labeling, limitations on portion sizes, or restrictions on advertising to children, could help mitigate these negative impacts. Moreover, government intervention could level the playing field, making healthier options more competitive and accessible.

On the other hand, those who advocate for individual responsibility maintain that personal choice should be paramount in a free society. They argue that adults are capable of making informed decisions about their diet and that government interference would be paternalistic and potentially infringe on personal liberties. Furthermore, they contend that education and awareness campaigns would be more effective in promoting healthy eating habits than top-down regulations.

In my opinion, a balanced approach combining elements of both viewpoints would be most effective. While I believe that individuals should ultimately be responsible for their dietary choices, I also recognize that the current food environment often makes it challenging to make healthy decisions. Therefore, I support government regulations that increase transparency and promote healthier options, such as mandatory nutritional information displays and incentives for fast food chains to offer more nutritious menu items. These measures would empower consumers to make informed choices without overly restricting personal freedom.

In conclusion, while the debate between government regulation and individual responsibility in fast food consumption is complex, a nuanced approach that respects personal choice while creating a supportive environment for healthy eating is likely to yield the best results for public health.

(Word count: 309)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

Nowadays, fast food is very popular, but it can cause health problems. Some people think the government should make stricter rules for fast food restaurants, while others believe it’s up to individuals to eat healthy. This essay will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support more government rules say that fast food chains are making people unhealthy. They use a lot of sugar, salt, and fat in their food, which can lead to obesity and other health issues. If the government makes stricter rules, like making restaurants show calorie information or limiting advertising to kids, it could help people make better food choices and improve public health.

On the other hand, people who think individuals should be responsible say that adults can decide for themselves what to eat. They believe that the government shouldn’t tell people what they can and can’t eat because it’s a personal choice. Instead of making rules, they think the government should focus on teaching people about healthy eating.

In my opinion, both the government and individuals have a role to play. I think the government should make some rules to help people make better choices, like making fast food restaurants show nutrition information. But I also think people need to take responsibility for their own health and try to eat a balanced diet.

To conclude, while the government can help by making some rules for fast food chains, individuals should also be responsible for their own diet and health. A combination of government support and personal responsibility is the best way to improve public health.

(Word count: 263)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases (e.g., “proliferation,” “mitigate,” “paternalistic”), while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity.

3. Grammar: The Band 8 essay demonstrates a wider range of complex structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but still maintains accuracy.

4. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8 essay provides more detailed and thoughtful arguments.

5. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8 essay has more sophisticated linking words and a more logical flow of ideas.

Vocabulary to Remember

Here are some useful vocabulary items related to this topic:

1. Obesity epidemic (noun phrase) /əʊˈbiːsəti epɪˈdemɪk/ – The rapid increase in obesity rates in a population
2. Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe or serious
3. Paternalistic (adjective) /pəˌtɜːnəˈlɪstɪk/ – Limiting freedom and responsibility by well-meant regulations
4. Infringe (verb) /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – To limit or undermine something
5. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – Characterized by subtle differences
6. Proliferation (noun) /prəˌlɪfəˈreɪʃn/ – Rapid increase in number or amount
7. Addictive (adjective) /əˈdɪktɪv/ – Causing a strong and harmful need to regularly have or do something
8. Incentive (noun) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – Something that encourages a person to do something

In conclusion, the topic of government regulations on fast food chains is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. When approaching this or similar topics, remember to discuss both viewpoints, provide your own opinion, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Practice writing essays on related topics, such as government regulations on other industries or the balance between personal freedom and public health. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion.