In recent years, the topic of limiting family size has become increasingly prominent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This controversial subject touches on various aspects of society, including population control, resource management, and individual rights. Based on past exam trends, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future tests, making it crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared.
Let’s examine a sample question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams:
Some people think that governments should limit the number of children a family can have. Others believe it is a personal choice. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format, asking candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide their personal opinion. The topic revolves around government intervention in family planning versus individual freedom of choice. To excel in this task, candidates must:
- Clearly present both perspectives
- Provide balanced arguments for each view
- Offer a well-reasoned personal opinion
- Support ideas with relevant examples
Now, let’s explore sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The debate over whether governments should regulate family size or leave it as a personal decision is a complex and sensitive issue. While some argue for state intervention to address overpopulation concerns, others staunchly defend individual reproductive rights. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.
Proponents of government-imposed family size limits often cite the need to control population growth and manage limited resources. They argue that unchecked population expansion can lead to environmental degradation, economic strain, and reduced quality of life. China’s former one-child policy, for instance, was implemented to curb rapid population growth and promote economic development. Supporters contend that such measures can help ensure a sustainable future for all citizens.
On the other hand, those who oppose government intervention in family planning emphasize the fundamental human right to reproductive choice. They argue that dictating family size infringes on personal freedoms and can lead to unintended consequences, such as gender imbalances or an aging population. Moreover, critics point out that education and economic development often naturally lead to lower birth rates, making coercive policies unnecessary. The gradual relaxation of China’s one-child policy serves as an example of the recognition that such strict measures may be counterproductive in the long term.
In my opinion, while population management is a valid concern, imposing strict limits on family size is an overly simplistic and potentially harmful approach. Instead, governments should focus on comprehensive strategies that address the root causes of overpopulation, such as poverty, lack of education, and limited access to healthcare. By investing in these areas, nations can empower individuals to make informed decisions about family planning while respecting their personal choices.
In conclusion, the question of government intervention in family size is multifaceted and requires careful consideration. While both sides present valid arguments, I believe that a balanced approach focusing on education, economic development, and healthcare access is more effective and ethical than imposing rigid restrictions on family size.
(Word count: 309)
Illustration of family size limit debate
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a comprehensive understanding of the topic, warranting a high band score of 8-9. Here’s why:
-
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting a personal opinion.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
-
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise, with a wide range of words and phrases used accurately (e.g., “unchecked population expansion,” “environmental degradation,” “reproductive choice”).
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of complex structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., “While some argue for state intervention to address overpopulation concerns, others staunchly defend individual reproductive rights.”).
-
Development and Support: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, such as the reference to China’s one-child policy and its subsequent relaxation.
-
Balanced Argument: The essay presents a balanced view of both perspectives before offering a nuanced personal opinion that acknowledges the complexity of the issue.
Now, let’s examine a sample essay for a mid-range band score.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The question of whether governments should control family size or leave it as a personal choice is a difficult one. There are arguments for both sides, and this essay will discuss them before giving my opinion.
Some people believe that governments should limit the number of children a family can have. They think this is necessary because of problems like overpopulation and lack of resources. For example, in some countries, there are too many people and not enough jobs or food. By limiting family size, governments can help make sure there are enough resources for everyone. This can also help with problems like pollution and overcrowding in cities.
On the other hand, many people think that deciding how many children to have should be a personal choice. They say that it’s a basic human right to choose the size of your family. These people argue that the government shouldn’t interfere in such private matters. They also point out that some families might need more children to help with work, especially in farming communities. Additionally, they worry that limiting family size could cause problems like an aging population or gender imbalance.
In my opinion, I think that while population control is important, forcing people to have a certain number of children is not the right way to do it. Instead, governments should focus on education and providing better healthcare. When people are educated and have access to good healthcare, they often choose to have smaller families anyway. This way, the population can be controlled without taking away people’s rights.
To conclude, there are valid arguments on both sides of this issue. However, I believe that education and healthcare are better solutions than strict government control of family size.
(Word count: 283)
Education and healthcare impact on family planning
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but lacks some of the sophistication and depth of the higher band score essay. Here’s an analysis of why it would receive a Band 6-7:
-
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, presenting both viewpoints and offering a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
-
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear paragraphing. However, the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
-
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, but lacks the precision and sophistication of higher band scores. There is some attempt at using less common vocabulary (e.g., “overcrowding,” “gender imbalance”).
-
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. However, it lacks the flexibility and range seen in higher band scores.
-
Development and Support: While examples are provided, they are more general and less specific than those in the Band 8-9 essay.
-
Balanced Argument: The essay presents both sides of the argument and offers a personal opinion, but the discussion is less nuanced than in the higher band score essay.
Key Vocabulary
Here are some important vocabulary items from the essays, along with their definitions and pronunciations:
- Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntərˈvenʃən/ – The action of becoming involved in a situation in order to improve or help it
- Reproductive rights (noun phrase) /ˌriːprəˈdʌktɪv raɪts/ – The rights of individuals to make decisions about their reproductive health
- Overpopulation (noun) /ˌəʊvəˌpɒpjuˈleɪʃən/ – The condition of having a population so large that it causes problems
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to continue over a period of time without damaging the environment
- Coercive (adjective) /kəʊˈɜːsɪv/ – Using force or threats to make someone do something
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features
- Gender imbalance (noun phrase) /ˈdʒendər ɪmˈbæləns/ – An unequal number of males and females in a population
- Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊntəprəˈdʌktɪv/ – Having the opposite effect to the one intended or expected
These vocabulary items can help elevate your writing and demonstrate a more sophisticated command of English in your IELTS Writing Task 2 responses.
Conclusion
The topic of government intervention in family size is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as how climate change is affecting global food security or The advantages and disadvantages of geographic mobility for jobs. These topics often intersect with population issues and can help you develop a well-rounded perspective.
Some potential future questions on this theme might include:
- “In some countries, the average family size is decreasing. What are the causes of this trend, and what effects might it have on society?”
- “Some argue that financial incentives should be offered to encourage larger families in countries with declining populations. Discuss the potential benefits and drawbacks of such a policy.”
To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the sample question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates. This active practice is an excellent way to refine your skills and gain confidence for the actual exam.
Remember, success in IELTS Writing Task 2 comes from a combination of strong language skills, critical thinking, and the ability to present well-structured arguments. Keep practicing, and don’t forget to explore resources on how to create a positive learning environment at home to support your IELTS preparation journey.
