The topic of raising the legal drinking age to 21 is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and current social debates, this issue is likely to appear in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis.
Some people think that the legal age for drinking alcohol should be raised to 21 years old. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on raising the legal drinking age to 21. Key points to consider:
- The current legal drinking age in many countries is lower than 21
- You need to state your position clearly: agree, disagree, or partially agree
- Discuss reasons and potential impacts of raising the age limit
- Consider both sides of the argument before reaching a conclusion
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, there has been growing debate about whether the legal drinking age should be increased to 21. While some argue that this change would reduce alcohol-related problems among young people, I disagree with this proposal for several reasons.
Firstly, raising the drinking age to 21 is unlikely to be effective in curbing underage drinking. Young people who want to consume alcohol will often find ways to do so, regardless of the legal age limit. Instead of preventing alcohol consumption, a higher age restriction may drive drinking underground, making it more dangerous as it occurs without supervision or regulation. This could lead to riskier behaviors and potentially more severe health consequences.
Moreover, setting the drinking age at 21 seems inconsistent with other legal rights and responsibilities granted to individuals at younger ages. In many countries, people can vote, join the military, and make other significant life decisions at 18. It seems contradictory to deem someone mature enough for these responsibilities but not for making informed choices about alcohol consumption. This discrepancy could undermine young people’s respect for the law and authority in general.
Instead of raising the legal age, a more effective approach would be to focus on education and promoting responsible drinking habits. Comprehensive alcohol education programs in schools and communities can equip young people with the knowledge and skills to make informed decisions about alcohol use. Additionally, enforcing existing laws more strictly and implementing stricter penalties for irresponsible behaviors related to alcohol could be more effective in addressing alcohol-related issues.
In conclusion, while the intention behind raising the drinking age to 21 may be to protect young people, I believe this approach is misguided and potentially counterproductive. A more holistic strategy that combines education, enforcement of current laws, and fostering a culture of responsible drinking is likely to be more effective in addressing alcohol-related concerns among young people.
(Word count: 309)
Students debating legal drinking age in classroom
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that would likely earn it a Band 8 or 9 score:
Clear position: The writer clearly disagrees with raising the drinking age and maintains this position throughout.
Well-developed arguments: Each paragraph presents a distinct, well-explained reason for the writer’s stance.
Logical structure: The essay follows a clear introduction-body-conclusion structure, with each paragraph flowing logically to the next.
Sophisticated vocabulary: The writer uses a range of advanced vocabulary accurately (e.g., “curbing,” “undermining,” “discrepancy”).
Complex sentence structures: The essay includes a mix of simple and complex sentences, demonstrating linguistic flexibility.
Cohesion and coherence: Ideas are well-connected using appropriate linking words and phrases.
Balanced view: While disagreeing, the writer acknowledges the intention behind the proposal and offers alternative solutions.
Conclusion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s position.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a lot of discussion about whether the legal drinking age should be increased to 21 years old. While some people think this is a good idea, I partially agree with this suggestion.
On one hand, raising the drinking age to 21 could have some benefits. Firstly, it might reduce alcohol-related accidents and health problems among young people. When people start drinking at a later age, they may be more mature and make better decisions about alcohol use. Also, it could give young people more time to learn about the dangers of alcohol before they can legally drink.
However, there are also some problems with this idea. One big issue is that it might be hard to enforce. Many young people already find ways to drink alcohol before they are legally allowed to, and raising the age limit might not stop this. It could even make underage drinking more dangerous because young people might drink in secret or in unsafe places.
Another problem is that it’s not fair to treat 18-20 year olds like children. In many countries, people can vote, join the army, and get married at 18. If they are considered adults in these ways, it doesn’t make sense to say they can’t make decisions about drinking.
I think a better solution would be to focus on education about alcohol. Schools and parents should teach young people about the risks of drinking and how to drink responsibly. This could be more effective than just changing the legal age.
In conclusion, while raising the drinking age to 21 might have some benefits, I believe it’s not the best solution. Education and teaching responsible drinking habits are more important than just changing the law.
(Word count: 292)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates qualities that would likely earn it a Band 6 or 7 score:
Clear position: The writer partially agrees with the proposal, which is stated in the introduction.
Adequate arguments: The essay presents arguments for and against raising the drinking age, though they could be more fully developed.
Basic structure: The essay follows a clear introduction-body-conclusion structure, though paragraphing could be improved.
Appropriate vocabulary: The writer uses relevant vocabulary, though not as sophisticated as in the Band 8-9 essay.
Mix of sentence structures: The essay includes both simple and complex sentences, though with less variety than the higher band essay.
Some cohesion: Ideas are connected, though transitions between paragraphs could be smoother.
Balanced view: The writer considers both sides of the argument before reaching a conclusion.
Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s position.
High school students in alcohol education program
Key Vocabulary
Legal drinking age (noun): The age at which it becomes legal for a person to purchase and consume alcohol.
Pronunciation: /ˈliːɡəl ˈdrɪŋkɪŋ eɪdʒ/Underage drinking (noun): The practice of people below the legal age consuming alcohol.
Pronunciation: /ˌʌndərˈeɪdʒ ˈdrɪŋkɪŋ/To curb (verb): To restrain or keep in check.
Pronunciation: /kɜːb/Counterproductive (adjective): Having the opposite of the desired effect.
Pronunciation: /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/To enforce (verb): To compel observance of or compliance with (a law, rule, or obligation).
Pronunciation: /ɪnˈfɔːs/Comprehensive (adjective): Including or dealing with all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.
Pronunciation: /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/Holistic (adjective): Characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole.
Pronunciation: /həˈlɪstɪk/To undermine (verb): To lessen the effectiveness, power, or ability of, especially gradually or insidiously.
Pronunciation: /ˌʌndəˈmaɪn/
Conclusion
The topic of raising the legal drinking age to 21 is a complex and controversial issue that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, remember to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Consider counterarguments
- Use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures
- Maintain a logical structure throughout your essay
For practice, try writing your own essay on this topic or related ones, such as:
- The effects of alcohol advertising on young people
- The role of parents in educating children about alcohol use
- Comparing alcohol policies across different countries
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.