The topic of banning junk food in school canteens has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current trends, this issue is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Its relevance to public health, education policies, and childhood obesity makes it a prime candidate for IELTS essays. Let’s examine a specific question on this topic and explore sample essays at different band levels.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that schools should ban junk food from their canteens. Others believe that students should be free to choose what they eat. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a classic IELTS Task 2 format: discussing two opposing views and providing a personal opinion. The key elements to address are:

1. Arguments for banning junk food in school canteens
2. Arguments against banning junk food (in favor of student choice)
3. Your personal stance on the issue

It’s crucial to maintain a balanced discussion of both perspectives before presenting your own viewpoint.

Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9

In recent years, the debate over whether schools should prohibit the sale of junk food in their canteens has gained significant traction. While some advocate for a complete ban to promote healthier eating habits among students, others argue that such restrictions infringe upon students’ freedom of choice. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering my own opinion on the matter.

Proponents of banning junk food in school canteens argue that such a measure is crucial for safeguarding students’ health. They contend that by limiting access to unhealthy options, schools can encourage better nutritional choices and combat the rising tide of childhood obesity. Moreover, advocates suggest that schools have a responsibility to create an environment conducive to learning, which includes providing nutritious meals that enhance cognitive function and overall well-being.

On the other hand, those opposing the ban emphasize the importance of personal choice and responsibility. They argue that prohibiting junk food may be counterproductive, potentially leading students to rebel against imposed restrictions or feel unprepared to make informed dietary decisions in the future. Additionally, opponents contend that schools should focus on educating students about nutrition rather than enforcing blanket bans, empowering them to make healthier choices independently.

In my opinion, while I acknowledge the merits of both arguments, I believe a balanced approach is most effective. Rather than implementing an outright ban, schools should significantly reduce the availability of junk food while simultaneously increasing the variety and appeal of healthier options. This strategy, coupled with comprehensive nutrition education, can foster an environment where students are more likely to choose nutritious foods without feeling overly restricted. By doing so, schools can promote better eating habits while still allowing students some degree of choice, preparing them for making informed decisions in the future.

In conclusion, the issue of junk food in school canteens is complex, with valid arguments on both sides. However, by adopting a nuanced approach that combines reduced access to unhealthy options with increased education and availability of nutritious alternatives, schools can effectively promote student health without completely eliminating choice.

(Word count: 329)

Students enjoying healthy meals in a school canteen

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several key features of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:

1. Clear structure: The essay follows a logical progression, introducing the topic, discussing both perspectives, presenting a personal opinion, and concluding effectively.

2. Balanced argument: Both sides of the debate are presented fairly and in detail before the writer’s opinion is introduced.

3. Sophisticated vocabulary: The essay uses a range of advanced vocabulary accurately, such as “prohibit,” “infringe,” “conducive,” and “counterproductive.”

4. Complex sentence structures: The writer employs a variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences with multiple clauses.

5. Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow smoothly from one to the next, with effective use of linking words and phrases.

6. Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and well-supported with reasoning.

7. Relevant examples: Although not explicitly stated, the essay implies real-world examples through its discussion of obesity and nutrition education.

These elements contribute to a high band score (8-9) for this essay.

Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7

The question of whether schools should stop selling junk food in their canteens is a hot topic these days. Some people think it’s a good idea to ban unhealthy snacks, while others believe students should be able to choose what they eat. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

Those who support banning junk food say it’s important for students’ health. They think that if schools don’t sell unhealthy snacks, students will eat better food and be healthier. This could help stop problems like obesity in children. Also, they believe that schools should teach good habits, and this includes eating healthy food.

On the other hand, people against the ban say it’s not fair to take away students’ choices. They think that if junk food is banned, students might want it more and eat more of it outside school. They also say that it’s better to teach students about good food choices rather than just banning certain foods.

In my opinion, I think schools should not completely ban junk food, but they should limit it. They could sell fewer unhealthy snacks and offer more healthy options that taste good. Schools should also teach students about nutrition so they can make better choices on their own. This way, students can learn to eat well without feeling like they’re being forced.

To sum up, while there are good reasons to ban junk food in school canteens, I believe a better approach is to reduce unhealthy options, increase healthy ones, and educate students about good nutrition. This can help students develop healthy eating habits that will last a lifetime.

(Word count: 287)

Colorful display of healthy food options in a school canteen

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates features typical of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Adequate structure: The essay follows a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing both views, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.

2. Balanced argument: Both perspectives are presented, though with less depth and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

3. Appropriate vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary, but with less range and precision than a higher band score essay.

4. Mix of sentence structures: There is some variation in sentence structure, but less complexity compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

5. Basic cohesion: Ideas are generally connected, but transitions between ideas could be smoother.

6. Clear position: The writer’s opinion is stated clearly, though the supporting arguments are less developed.

7. Relevant ideas: The essay presents relevant ideas related to the topic, though they are less fully explored than in a higher band score essay.

This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range due to its adequate coverage of the task requirements and generally clear communication, despite some limitations in language use and idea development.

Key Vocabulary

Here are some important vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions and parts of speech:

1. Prohibit (verb) /prəˈhɪbɪt/: To formally forbid something by law or rule.

2. Infringe (verb) /ɪnˈfrɪndʒ/: To act in a way that limits or undermines something.

3. Conducive (adjective) /kənˈdjuːsɪv/: Making a certain situation or outcome likely or possible.

4. Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/: Having the opposite of the desired effect.

5. Blanket (adjective) /ˈblæŋkɪt/: Covering or affecting everything or everyone.

6. Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/: Characterized by subtle differences or distinctions.

7. Obesity (noun) /əʊˈbiːsəti/: The state of being very overweight, with a high degree of body fat.

8. Nutrition (noun) /njuːˈtrɪʃn/: The process of providing or obtaining food necessary for health and growth.

9. Empower (verb) /ɪmˈpaʊə(r)/: To give someone the authority or power to do something.

10. Cognitive (adjective) /ˈkɒɡnətɪv/: Related to the mental processes of perception, memory, judgment, and reasoning.

Conclusion

The topic of banning junk food in school canteens is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. It touches on themes of health, education, personal freedom, and social responsibility, making it an excellent subject for essay writing. As you prepare for your IELTS exam, consider practicing with similar topics that balance individual rights against collective well-being.

Some potential related questions you might encounter could include:

• Should governments regulate the types of food advertised to children?
• Is it the responsibility of schools to ensure students maintain a healthy weight?
• To what extent should parents control their children’s diets?

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about having strong opinions, but about expressing them clearly, supporting them with relevant examples, and demonstrating a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures.

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your studies!