The topic of fast food’s effects on children’s behavior and learning is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on an analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject has a high probability of appearing in future tests. Its relevance to public health, education, and social issues makes it a prime candidate for examination. Let’s explore a specific question related to this topic that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS exams.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that governments should ban dangerous sports, while others think people should have freedom to choose their activities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format: discussing two contrasting views and providing a personal opinion. The topic touches on the balance between government intervention and personal freedom, specifically in the context of dangerous sports. This type of question requires candidates to:

1. Understand and present both perspectives
2. Provide relevant examples and explanations
3. Offer a balanced discussion
4. Clearly state and support their own opinion

Let’s examine three sample essays of varying quality, representing different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the debate over whether governments should prohibit hazardous sports or allow individuals to make their own choices has intensified. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that a balanced approach is necessary to address this complex issue.

Those who advocate for government intervention argue that it is the state’s responsibility to protect its citizens from unnecessary risks. Dangerous sports such as base jumping, free solo climbing, and extreme motorsports can lead to severe injuries or fatalities, placing a burden on healthcare systems and causing emotional distress to families. Proponents of this view contend that banning these activities would save lives and reduce the strain on medical resources. Moreover, they argue that young people might be unduly influenced by the glorification of these sports in media, leading them to take unwarranted risks without fully understanding the consequences.

On the other hand, supporters of personal freedom emphasize the importance of individual choice and responsibility. They argue that adults should have the autonomy to decide which activities they engage in, even if these pursuits involve risk. This perspective values the personal growth, challenge, and sense of achievement that dangerous sports can provide. Additionally, proponents point out that many innovations in safety equipment and techniques have emerged from these high-risk activities, benefiting other areas of society. They also contend that banning such sports might drive them underground, making them even more dangerous due to lack of regulation and proper training.

In my opinion, while the government has a duty to ensure public safety, an outright ban on dangerous sports would be an overreach. Instead, I believe a more nuanced approach is warranted. Authorities should focus on implementing strict safety regulations, mandating proper training and certification for participants, and ensuring adequate medical support at events. This strategy would help mitigate risks while still preserving individual freedom. Furthermore, public education campaigns could be launched to inform people about the potential consequences of engaging in high-risk activities, enabling them to make more informed decisions.

In conclusion, the issue of dangerous sports regulation requires a delicate balance between public safety and personal liberty. By adopting a comprehensive approach that combines sensible regulations, education, and individual responsibility, societies can address the concerns of both perspectives while fostering a culture of informed risk-taking and personal growth.

(Word count: 377)

Balancing safety and freedom in dangerous sports

Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and meets all the criteria for a high band score:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response with relevant, extended, and supported ideas.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is cohesive and progresses logically, with each paragraph clearly focused on a main idea. Cohesive devices are used effectively and appropriately.

3. Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used with full flexibility and precision. The essay includes less common lexical items and shows awareness of style and collocation.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A wide range of grammatical structures is used accurately and appropriately. The essay demonstrates a high level of grammatical control.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Nowadays, there is a debate about whether governments should prohibit dangerous sports or not. Some people think it’s necessary, while others believe in personal freedom. In this essay, I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, those who support banning dangerous sports have good reasons. They think the government should protect people from harm. Dangerous sports like skydiving or racing cars can cause serious injuries or even death. This not only affects the person doing the sport but also their family and friends. Moreover, when people get hurt, it puts pressure on hospitals and medical services. Supporters of this view believe that by banning these sports, the government can save lives and reduce healthcare costs.

On the other hand, many people argue that individuals should have the right to choose their own activities, even if they are risky. They believe that personal freedom is very important in a society. These people say that dangerous sports can be exciting and help people challenge themselves. They also argue that many of these sports have safety measures in place, and participants are aware of the risks. Additionally, they think that banning these sports might make people do them illegally, which could be even more dangerous.

In my opinion, I think a complete ban on dangerous sports is not the best solution. Instead, the government should focus on making these sports safer. They could introduce stricter safety rules and make sure people are properly trained before participating. Also, they could require participants to have insurance to cover any medical costs if they get injured. This way, people can still enjoy these activities, but with reduced risks.

To conclude, while there are valid arguments on both sides, I believe that a balanced approach is better than an outright ban. Governments should work on improving safety in dangerous sports rather than prohibiting them completely.

(Word count: 309)

Safety measures in dangerous sports

Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay

This essay demonstrates good writing skills but has some areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a relevant position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed and supported.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized with clear progression throughout. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more varied.

3. Lexical Resource: A sufficient range of vocabulary is used appropriately, with some attempts at less common lexical items. There is some awareness of style and collocation.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, generally with good control. Some grammatical errors occur, but they do not impede communication.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

In todays world, there is big discussion about dangerous sports. Some people think government should stop them, but others say people can choose. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

First, some people want government to ban dangerous sports. They think its important for safety. Dangerous sports can make people get hurt or die. This is bad for person and their family. Also, when people get hurt, hospitals must help them. This costs lot of money. So, if government stop dangerous sports, it can save lives and money.

But, other people think different. They say people should be free to do what they want, even if its dangerous. They think dangerous sports are fun and exciting. People who do these sports know its risky, but they still want to do it. Also, they say if government ban these sports, people might do them in secret, which is more dangerous.

I think both sides have good points. But, I dont think government should ban dangerous sports completely. Instead, they should make rules to make sports safer. They can ask people to learn more before doing dangerous sports. Also, they can make sure there are doctors at sports events. This way, people can still do exciting sports, but its not so dangerous.

In conclusion, dangerous sports is a hard topic. Government should not ban them, but they should make them safer. This is good for everyone.

(Word count: 234)

Government regulation of dangerous sports

Analysis of Band 5-6 Essay

This essay demonstrates adequate writing skills but has several areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but the ideas are underdeveloped and lack depth. The writer’s position is present but not always clear.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic organizational structure, but coherence is limited. Paragraphing is present but not always logical. Basic cohesive devices are used, but not always accurately.

3. Lexical Resource: A limited range of vocabulary is used, with some errors in word choice and spelling. There is little evidence of less common vocabulary.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A limited range of structures is used, with frequent grammatical errors. Simple sentences are more accurate than complex ones.

Key Vocabulary

1. Hazardous (adjective) – /ˈhæzərdəs/ – dangerous, especially to health or safety
2. Intervention (noun) – /ˌɪntərˈvenʃən/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation to improve it or prevent it from getting worse
3. Autonomy (noun) – /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government
4. Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make something less severe, serious, or painful
5. Nuanced (adjective) – /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – characterized by subtle shades of meaning or expression
6. Overreach (noun) – /ˌəʊvəˈriːtʃ/ – an act of trying to do more than one’s ability allows
7. Mandate (verb) – /mænˈdeɪt/ – to give official permission or approval for something
8. Glorification (noun) – /ˌɡlɔːrɪfɪˈkeɪʃən/ – the action of describing or representing something as admirable, especially unjustifiably
9. Unduly (adverb) – /ʌnˈdjuːli/ – to an unwarranted or inappropriate degree; excessively
10. Prohibit (verb) – /prəˈhɪbɪt/ – to formally forbid something by law, rule, or other authority

In conclusion, the topic of dangerous sports regulation provides an excellent opportunity for IELTS candidates to demonstrate their ability to discuss complex issues. When approaching similar questions, remember to present both sides of the argument, use specific examples, and clearly state your own opinion. Practice writing essays on related topics, such as the role of government in regulating other potentially harmful activities or the balance between personal freedom and public safety in different contexts. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.