The topic of government spending priorities, particularly the debate between healthcare and other sectors, is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this issue is likely to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that governments should spend money on healthcare, while others think that there are more important priorities for government spending. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question is a classic example of an IELTS Writing Task 2 topic that requires candidates to discuss multiple viewpoints and express their own opinion. It’s crucial to address both sides of the argument and clearly state your position.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
High Band Score Essay
Healthcare is undeniably a crucial aspect of any nation’s well-being, yet the allocation of government funds is a complex issue that involves various sectors. While some argue that healthcare should be the primary focus of government spending, others contend that other areas deserve equal or greater attention. In my opinion, a balanced approach that prioritizes healthcare while not neglecting other essential sectors is the most effective strategy.
Those who advocate for increased healthcare spending argue that a healthy population is the foundation of a prosperous society. They contend that investing in medical infrastructure, research, and accessible healthcare services can lead to improved life expectancy, reduced mortality rates, and enhanced overall quality of life. Moreover, a healthy workforce is more productive, which can indirectly boost the economy. The COVID-19 pandemic has further underscored the importance of robust healthcare systems, as countries with well-funded medical sectors were generally better equipped to handle the crisis.
On the other hand, proponents of diversified government spending argue that other sectors are equally vital for a nation’s development. Education, for instance, is crucial for fostering innovation, critical thinking, and skilled labor, which are essential for long-term economic growth. Infrastructure development, including transportation and communication networks, facilitates commerce and improves quality of life. Environmental protection and sustainable energy initiatives are increasingly important in the face of climate change. Additionally, investment in defense and security ensures national stability, which is a prerequisite for all other forms of progress.
In my view, while healthcare should be a top priority, it should not come at the expense of neglecting other critical areas. A holistic approach to government spending is necessary to address the multifaceted needs of a nation. For example, investing in education can lead to a more health-conscious population and produce skilled healthcare professionals. Similarly, improved infrastructure can enhance access to medical facilities, particularly in rural areas. Therefore, I believe that governments should strive for a balanced allocation of resources, with healthcare receiving significant attention but not to the detriment of other essential sectors.
In conclusion, the debate over government spending priorities is nuanced and context-dependent. While healthcare is undoubtedly crucial, a nation’s progress depends on the harmonious development of various sectors. Governments should aim for a balanced approach, allocating substantial resources to healthcare while ensuring that other vital areas receive adequate funding to support overall national development.
(Word count: 379)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a high band score:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph focuses on a specific point, and there are effective linking words and phrases.
Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Examples include “allocation of government funds,” “medical infrastructure,” “diversified government spending,” and “holistic approach.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately. Complex sentences are used effectively, and there are no noticeable errors.
Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Healthcare Spending
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Medium Band Score Essay
In today’s world, governments have to make important decisions about how to spend money. Some people think healthcare should be the main focus, while others believe there are more important things to spend on. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
People who support spending on healthcare say it’s very important for everyone’s life. When people are healthy, they can work better and be happier. Good hospitals and doctors can help people live longer and feel better. Also, if there’s a big health problem like COVID-19, countries with good healthcare can handle it better.
However, other people think there are more important things to spend money on. For example, education is very important because it helps people get good jobs and make the country better. Also, things like roads, bridges, and internet are important for business and everyday life. Some people think the government should spend money on protecting the environment or keeping the country safe from enemies.
In my opinion, healthcare is very important, but other things are important too. I think the government should try to spend money on healthcare and also on other important things. For example, if people are educated, they might understand how to stay healthy better. If there are good roads, it’s easier for people to go to hospitals. So, I think the government should try to balance spending on different things.
In conclusion, while healthcare is very important, other areas also need money from the government. The best way is to try to spend money on healthcare and also on other important things that help the country grow and be better.
(Word count: 269)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities expected of a medium band score:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion. However, the ideas are less fully developed compared to the higher band essay.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. There are some linking words, but they are less sophisticated than in the higher band essay.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay. There are attempts to use less common vocabulary (e.g., “balance spending”), but the range is more limited.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures. There are no major grammatical errors, but the range of structures is less varied than in the higher band essay.
Development of Ideas: Main points are present and supported, but the ideas are less fully elaborated compared to the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
Allocation (noun) /ˌæləˈkeɪʃən/: The act of distributing resources for a specific purpose.
Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/: The basic physical and organizational structures needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
Prioritize (verb) /praɪˈɒrətaɪz/: To arrange or deal with in order of importance.
Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/: Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are interconnected and can be explained only by reference to the whole.
Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/: Having many different aspects or features.
Prosperity (noun) /prɒˈsperəti/: The state of being successful or thriving, especially financially.
Diversified (adjective) /daɪˈvɜːrsɪfaɪd/: Varying or different; having variety.
Harmonious (adjective) /hɑːˈməʊniəs/: Forming a pleasing or consistent whole; free from disagreement or discord.
Robust (adjective) /rəʊˈbʌst/: Strong and healthy; vigorous.
Nuanced (adjective) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/: Characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression.
Conclusion
The topic of government spending priorities, especially regarding healthcare versus other sectors, is a complex and nuanced issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. By studying and understanding the sample essays provided, you can develop the skills needed to address this topic effectively in your own writing.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- Should governments invest more in preventive healthcare or treatment of diseases?
- Is it the government’s responsibility to provide free healthcare for all citizens?
- How can governments balance spending on healthcare with other important sectors like education and infrastructure?
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing skills!