Homelessness is a pressing social issue that has been gaining attention in recent years, making it a popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. The role of governments in addressing homelessness is a complex and multifaceted subject that requires careful consideration. Based on past IELTS exams and current social trends, we can expect this topic to appear frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant essay question and provide sample answers for different band scores.
Analyzing the Essay Question
Some people believe that governments should be responsible for reducing homelessness, while others think it is the responsibility of individuals and charities. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to consider two contrasting viewpoints on addressing homelessness:
- Government responsibility
- Individual and charity responsibility
You are required to discuss both perspectives and provide your personal opinion on the matter. This type of question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, which is common in IELTS Writing Task 2.
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
In recent years, the issue of homelessness has become increasingly prevalent in many societies, sparking debates about who should bear the responsibility for addressing this problem. While some argue that governments should take the lead in tackling homelessness, others believe it is primarily the duty of individuals and charitable organizations. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both government intervention and private initiatives is the most effective solution.
Those who advocate for government responsibility argue that homelessness is a complex social issue that requires systemic changes and substantial resources. Governments have the power to implement large-scale policies and allocate significant funds to address the root causes of homelessness, such as poverty, unemployment, and lack of affordable housing. For instance, they can introduce rent control measures, invest in social housing projects, and provide financial assistance to those at risk of losing their homes. Moreover, governments can coordinate efforts across various sectors, ensuring a more comprehensive and cohesive approach to combating homelessness.
On the other hand, proponents of individual and charity responsibility contend that grassroots efforts are more efficient and personalized. They argue that local communities and non-profit organizations have a better understanding of the specific needs of homeless individuals in their area and can provide more tailored support. Charitable organizations often rely on volunteers who are passionate about the cause, which can lead to more compassionate and dedicated care. Additionally, involving individuals and charities fosters a sense of community responsibility and encourages active citizenship.
In my view, the most effective approach to addressing homelessness involves a combination of government intervention and private initiatives. Governments should provide the overarching framework and resources necessary to tackle homelessness on a large scale, including developing affordable housing policies, improving mental health services, and implementing job training programs. Simultaneously, individuals and charities can complement these efforts by offering localized support, such as running soup kitchens, organizing clothing drives, and providing temporary shelter.
In conclusion, while both government action and private initiatives have their merits in addressing homelessness, a collaborative approach that leverages the strengths of both sectors is likely to yield the best results. By combining the resources and policy-making power of governments with the grassroots efforts and personalized care of individuals and charities, societies can work towards more comprehensive and sustainable solutions to the complex issue of homelessness.
(Word count: 374)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
The problem of homelessness is getting worse in many countries, and people have different opinions about who should solve it. Some think the government should be responsible, while others believe individuals and charities should help. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
On one hand, many people think the government should take care of homeless people. Governments have more money and power to make big changes. They can build more houses for poor people and create laws to help them. For example, they can make rules to stop landlords from charging too much rent. Governments can also give money to people who might lose their homes. This way, they can prevent more people from becoming homeless.
On the other hand, some people believe that individuals and charities should help homeless people. They think that local organizations understand the problem better because they work directly with homeless people. Charities can provide food, clothes, and temporary places to stay. Many volunteers work for these organizations because they care about helping others. This personal approach can be more effective in some ways.
In my opinion, both the government and individuals should work together to solve the homelessness problem. The government should make big plans and provide money, while charities and people can help in their local areas. For example, the government can build more affordable houses, and charities can help homeless people find jobs and learn new skills.
To conclude, I believe that addressing homelessness requires efforts from both the government and private individuals or organizations. By working together, they can create better solutions to help homeless people and prevent others from losing their homes.
(Word count: 268)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced discussion.
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Language Use:
- Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures.
- Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still maintains clarity and coherence.
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Argument Development:
- Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and explanations.
- Band 6-7 essay gives basic examples but could benefit from more elaboration.
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Opinion Expression: Both essays clearly state the writer’s opinion, but the Band 8-9 essay integrates it more smoothly into the overall argument.
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Cohesion and Coherence: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates better use of linking words and ideas flow more naturally between paragraphs.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Prevalent (adjective) /ˈprev.ə.lənt/ – widespread or common
- Systemic (adjective) /sɪˈstem.ɪk/ – relating to a system, especially as opposed to a particular part
- Allocate (verb) /ˈæl.ə.keɪt/ – to give something to someone as their share of a total amount
- Cohesive (adjective) /kəʊˈhiː.sɪv/ – united and working together effectively
- Grassroots (adjective) /ˈɡrɑːs.ruːts/ – involving ordinary people in a community rather than leaders or officials
- Leverage (verb) /ˈlev.ər.ɪdʒ/ – to use something to maximum advantage
- Comprehensive (adjective) /ˌkɒm.prɪˈhen.sɪv/ – complete and including everything that is necessary
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/ – able to continue over a period of time
Conclusion
Writing about the government’s role in addressing homelessness requires a balanced approach, considering multiple perspectives and providing concrete examples. Practice writing essays on this topic and similar social issues to improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 skills. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply the strategies and vocabulary discussed in this article, preparing you for success in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
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