The role of governments in promoting social welfare is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. This subject has been a recurring theme in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests due to its significance in contemporary socio-economic discussions. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and provide a comprehensive analysis along with model essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that governments should focus on reducing environmental pollution and housing problems to improve health. Others believe that governments should prioritize other factors. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question falls under the category of discussing two opposing views and giving your own opinion. It specifically addresses the government’s role in promoting social welfare through environmental and housing policies, while also considering other potential priorities.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
Environmental pollution and housing problems are undoubtedly significant issues that impact public health, and many argue that governments should prioritize these areas. However, others contend that there are equally pressing factors that deserve governmental attention. In my opinion, while addressing pollution and housing is crucial, a holistic approach to social welfare is necessary for effective governance.
Proponents of focusing on environmental pollution and housing issues argue that these factors have a direct and substantial impact on public health. Poor air quality, contaminated water sources, and inadequate living conditions can lead to a myriad of health problems, from respiratory diseases to mental health issues. By investing in cleaner energy sources, implementing stricter pollution controls, and developing affordable housing programs, governments can significantly improve the overall health and well-being of their citizens. Moreover, these initiatives often have long-term economic benefits, as a healthier population is generally more productive and requires less healthcare expenditure.
On the other hand, those who believe governments should prioritize other factors argue that social welfare encompasses a broader range of issues. Education, healthcare, economic stability, and social security are all critical components of a thriving society. Investing in quality education can lead to a more skilled workforce and increased innovation, while a robust healthcare system ensures that citizens have access to necessary medical care. Furthermore, economic policies that promote job creation and financial stability can reduce poverty and improve overall living standards. These factors, when addressed comprehensively, can have a profound impact on social welfare that extends beyond the immediate benefits of tackling pollution and housing problems.
In my view, while environmental and housing issues are undeniably important, governments should adopt a balanced approach to promoting social welfare. A multi-faceted strategy that addresses various interconnected aspects of society is likely to yield the most significant and sustainable improvements in citizens’ quality of life. This could involve implementing environmentally friendly policies and housing initiatives alongside investments in education, healthcare, and economic development. By doing so, governments can create a more resilient and prosperous society that is better equipped to face future challenges.
In conclusion, the role of governments in promoting social welfare is complex and multifaceted. While focusing on environmental pollution and housing problems is crucial, a comprehensive approach that considers various factors is necessary for effective governance and sustainable social progress.
(Word count: 395)
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
There are different opinions about what governments should focus on to improve health. Some people think that reducing pollution and solving housing problems are the most important things, while others believe there are other factors that should be given priority. I will discuss both views and share my own opinion.
Those who support focusing on pollution and housing problems have good reasons. Pollution can cause many health issues like breathing problems and cancer. Bad housing conditions can also lead to health problems and stress. If governments work on these issues, they can help many people live healthier lives. For example, making laws to reduce air pollution from factories and cars can improve air quality in cities. Building better houses for people who don’t have good homes can also make their lives healthier.
However, other people think there are more important things for governments to focus on. They believe that education, healthcare systems, and jobs are also very important for people’s health. Good education can help people learn about how to stay healthy. A good healthcare system means people can get treatment when they are sick. Having a job helps people afford good food and a better lifestyle. These things are also important for people’s overall health and well-being.
In my opinion, I think governments should try to work on all these areas. While pollution and housing are very important, other factors like education, healthcare, and jobs are also crucial for people’s health. Governments should try to find a balance and work on all these issues together. This way, they can improve people’s health and lives in many different ways.
To conclude, both views have valid points. Reducing pollution and improving housing are important, but so are other factors like education and healthcare. I believe a balanced approach that considers all these aspects is the best way for governments to improve people’s health and well-being.
(Word count: 309)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
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Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each view, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and cohesion.
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Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and collocations, such as “myriad of health problems,” “long-term economic benefits,” and “multi-faceted strategy.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler vocabulary but still maintains clarity.
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Grammar: The Band 8-9 essay showcases a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions. Both essays maintain grammatical accuracy.
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Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more nuanced opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates smoother transitions between ideas and paragraphs, using a variety of linking words and phrases.
Vocabulary to Remember
- Social welfare (noun) /ˈsəʊʃl ˈwelfeə(r)/ – The well-being of the entire society.
- Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – Considering the whole thing or being rather than just parts.
- Myriad (noun) /ˈmɪriəd/ – A countless or extremely large number.
- Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/ – Put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect.
- Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/ – Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
- Multifaceted (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
- Interconnected (adjective) /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪd/ – Having all parts or elements closely connected.
In conclusion, the role of governments in promoting social welfare is a complex and multifaceted topic that requires careful consideration of various factors. While addressing environmental pollution and housing problems is crucial, a comprehensive approach that includes education, healthcare, economic stability, and other social factors is necessary for effective governance and sustainable improvement in citizens’ quality of life.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The impact of government policies on income inequality
- The role of social welfare programs in reducing poverty
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection in government policies
We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills and help you prepare for similar questions in the actual test.
For more insights on related topics, you might find these articles helpful:
- The Role of Public Policy in Addressing Income Inequality
- Economic Stability and Social Inequality
- The Effects of Economic Policies on Social Mobility
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to a variety of topics will help you build the skills and confidence needed to excel in IELTS Writing Task 2.