Fast food consumption and its regulation by governments is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. This issue has appeared in various forms in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions, making it a crucial subject for test-takers to be prepared for. Based on past exam trends and the growing global concern over public health, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to feature in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a specific question on this theme and analyze some sample essays.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should regulate the amount of unhealthy food and drinks that people consume. Others believe that it is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format: discussing two opposing views and providing a personal opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- Government regulation of unhealthy food and drink consumption
- Personal choice and responsibility in food consumption
- Your own perspective on the issue
Let’s examine sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-band response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The growing prevalence of obesity and related health issues has sparked a debate on whether governments should intervene in regulating the consumption of unhealthy food and beverages. While some argue for stringent governmental control, others maintain that dietary choices should remain a matter of individual responsibility. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government regulation argue that state intervention is necessary to combat the rising tide of obesity and associated health problems. They contend that many individuals, especially children, lack the knowledge or self-control to make healthy food choices, and that the aggressive marketing tactics of fast food companies exploit these vulnerabilities. By implementing measures such as sugar taxes, advertising restrictions, and mandatory nutritional labeling, governments can create an environment that nudges people towards healthier choices. Moreover, advocates argue that the societal costs of obesity-related illnesses justify governmental action to protect public health.
On the other hand, those who favor personal responsibility assert that dietary choices are a fundamental aspect of individual freedom. They argue that government regulation in this area is paternalistic and infringes on personal liberties. These critics contend that education and awareness campaigns are more effective and less intrusive methods of promoting healthy eating habits. Furthermore, they point out that overly restrictive regulations could have unintended consequences, such as creating black markets for prohibited items or unfairly impacting lower-income communities who rely on affordable, albeit sometimes unhealthy, food options.
In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines elements of both viewpoints is most appropriate. While I believe that individuals should retain the right to make their own dietary choices, I also recognize the need for some level of government intervention to promote public health. This could involve implementing moderate regulations, such as clear nutritional labeling and restrictions on marketing unhealthy foods to children, while simultaneously investing in comprehensive public health education programs. Such an approach would empower individuals to make informed choices while creating an environment that supports healthy eating habits.
In conclusion, while the regulation of unhealthy food consumption is a complex issue, a nuanced strategy that respects personal freedom while addressing public health concerns is likely to be most effective. By striking a balance between governmental oversight and individual responsibility, societies can work towards improving overall health outcomes without unduly restricting personal choice.
(Word count: 377)
IELTS essay sample
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high-band score:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with a clear progression of ideas. Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, and there are effective linking words and phrases throughout.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Complex terms like “paternalistic” and “unintended consequences” are used effectively.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly. Complex sentences are used throughout without errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should control the amount of unhealthy food and drinks people consume is a debated topic. Some people think it’s necessary, while others believe it should be left to personal choice. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support government regulation argue that it’s important for public health. They say that many people, especially kids, don’t know how to make healthy food choices. Fast food companies use strong marketing to make people buy unhealthy foods, and this leads to problems like obesity. Governments could help by putting taxes on sugary drinks or limiting ads for junk food. This could make people choose healthier options and reduce health problems in society.
On the other hand, people who believe in personal responsibility say that what we eat should be our own choice. They think the government shouldn’t tell us what to eat because it’s part of our freedom. Instead of making rules, they suggest that governments should focus on educating people about healthy eating. They worry that strict rules might create other problems, like making some foods too expensive for poor people.
In my opinion, I think there should be a mix of both approaches. While I believe people should have the freedom to choose what they eat, I also think the government has a role in protecting public health. They could introduce some regulations, like clear labels on food packages, but also focus on teaching people about nutrition in schools. This way, people can make informed choices, but there’s also some protection against the worst effects of unhealthy eating.
To conclude, while regulating unhealthy food consumption is a complex issue, I believe a balanced approach that includes some government action and respects personal choice is the best way forward. This can help improve public health without taking away too much individual freedom.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a mid-range band score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion of each view and the personal opinion could be more developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the higher band essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the Band 8-9 essay. There’s less use of topic-specific vocabulary.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures, with some minor errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Main points are supported, but the examples and explanations are less detailed and nuanced compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Regulate (verb) /ˈreɡjʊleɪt/ – to control something by means of rules
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- Paternalistic (adjective) /pəˌtɜːnəˈlɪstɪk/ – limiting freedom and responsibility by well-meant regulations
- Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
- Obesity (noun) /əʊˈbiːsəti/ – the state of being very fat or overweight
- Stringent (adjective) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – strict, precise, and exacting
- Empower (verb) /ɪmˈpaʊə(r)/ – to give someone the authority or power to do something
- Infringe (verb) /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/ – to limit or undermine something
- Mandate (verb) /ˈmændeɪt/ – to officially require something
- Oversight (noun) /ˈəʊvəsaɪt/ – the action of overseeing something
Conclusion
The topic of government regulation of fast food consumption is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of education in promoting healthy eating habits
- The impact of fast food advertising on public health
- The effectiveness of sugar taxes in reducing obesity rates
- The responsibility of food companies in addressing the obesity epidemic
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide well-developed arguments supported by relevant examples. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to improve your IELTS Writing skills.
