The topic of public health programs and preventive care is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam trends and current global health concerns, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people think that public health within a country can be improved by government making laws regarding nutritious food. Others, however, think that health is a matter of personal choice and responsibility. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question touches on the broader theme of preventive care and public health initiatives, making it an excellent example to explore the topic should public health services focus more on preventive care. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
This question requires you to:
- Discuss the view that government regulations on nutritious food can improve public health
- Discuss the opposing view that health is a personal responsibility
- Give your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced discussion before stating your position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In an era of increasing health concerns, the debate over whether governments should intervene in public health through legislation or leave it to individual responsibility has gained significant traction. While both approaches have their merits, I believe a balanced combination of government initiatives and personal accountability is the most effective way to improve public health.
Proponents of government intervention argue that laws regulating nutritious food can significantly impact public health. By enforcing strict standards on food quality, limiting unhealthy ingredients, and mandating clear nutritional labeling, governments can create an environment that promotes healthier eating habits. For instance, countries that have implemented taxes on sugary beverages have seen a decrease in consumption and, consequently, a reduction in obesity rates. Moreover, government regulations can help address health inequalities by ensuring that nutritious options are accessible and affordable to all segments of society.
Government Regulation on Food
On the other hand, those who advocate for personal responsibility contend that health choices should ultimately be left to the individual. They argue that excessive government interference can infringe on personal freedoms and lead to a “nanny state” mentality. Furthermore, they believe that education and awareness campaigns are more effective in promoting long-term behavioral changes than imposing restrictions. This approach emphasizes the importance of empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their health and lifestyle.
In my opinion, the most effective strategy lies in striking a balance between government intervention and personal responsibility. While governments should provide a supportive framework through regulations and public health initiatives, individuals must also take charge of their own well-being. For example, governments can implement policies to improve food quality and accessibility, but it is up to individuals to make healthy choices within this framework. Additionally, comprehensive health education programs can equip people with the knowledge and skills needed to make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle.
Making Healthy Lifestyle Choices
In conclusion, improving public health requires a multi-faceted approach that combines government action with individual responsibility. By creating a supportive environment through legislation and empowering individuals through education, societies can work towards better health outcomes for all.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of how to improve public health is a complex one. Some people think the government should make laws about healthy food, while others believe it’s up to individuals to take care of their own health. Both sides have good points, and I will discuss them before giving my opinion.
Those who support government intervention say that laws can help make the population healthier. When the government sets rules about what can be in food or how it should be labeled, it makes it easier for people to eat well. For example, if there are limits on how much sugar can be in drinks, people might drink less sugary stuff and be healthier. Also, if healthy food is cheaper because of government rules, more people can afford to eat well.
On the other hand, people who think health is a personal choice say that the government shouldn’t tell us what to eat. They believe that people should be free to decide for themselves what’s best for their health. They also think that if people are taught about health, they will make good choices on their own without being forced by laws.
In my opinion, both the government and individuals have a role to play in improving public health. I think the government should make some rules to help people eat better, like making sure there’s clear information on food labels. But I also think people need to take responsibility for their own health by learning about nutrition and making an effort to eat well and exercise.
To conclude, while government laws can help create a healthier environment, should healthcare focus more on preventive measures ultimately depends on individuals making good choices for themselves. A combination of helpful laws and personal responsibility is the best way to improve public health.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Some people think the government should make laws about healthy food to improve public health. Other people think health is a personal choice. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Government laws about food can be good for health. When the government makes rules about food, it can help people eat better. For example, if there are rules about how much sugar can be in drinks, people might drink less sugar. This can make people healthier. Also, if the government makes healthy food cheaper, more people can buy it.
But some people think health is a personal choice. They say the government should not tell people what to eat. They think people should choose their own food. They also think if people learn about health, they will make good choices without laws.
Importance of a Balanced Diet
I think both ideas are important. The government can help by making some rules about food. But people also need to take care of their own health. They should learn about healthy food and try to eat well.
In conclusion, I think the government and people both have a job to do for public health. The government can make some helpful laws, but people need to make good choices too.
Explaining the Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Presents ideas coherently and cohesively, using paragraphing effectively
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some inaccuracies
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but development is not always clear
- Uses limited range of vocabulary; errors may cause some difficulty for the reader
- Uses a limited range of structures with some attempt to use complex sentences
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Nutritious (adjective) /njuːˈtrɪʃəs/ – containing substances necessary for growth and health
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it
- Legislation (noun) /ˌledʒɪsˈleɪʃn/ – laws made by a government
- Accessibility (noun) /əkˌsesəˈbɪləti/ – the quality of being able to be reached or obtained easily
- Empowering (adjective) /ɪmˈpaʊərɪŋ/ – giving someone the authority or power to do something
- Multi-faceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – an act or strategy intended to resolve a difficulty or improve a situation
- Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something
In conclusion, the topic of public health programs and preventive care is crucial in today’s world, especially considering The consequences of increased life expectancy on healthcare systems. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, consider practicing with similar topics such as:
- The role of education in promoting public health
- The impact of technology on preventive healthcare
- Should governments promote universal healthcare?
- The balance between curative and preventive healthcare in national health policies
To enhance your writing skills, try composing an essay on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed, improving your ability to tackle similar topics in the IELTS exam.
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of health-related topics will significantly improve your performance in the IELTS Writing Task 2. Good luck with your preparation!