Obesity has become a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past decade. Based on analysis of past exam questions, topics related to obesity and public health have appeared approximately 15-20% of the time, making it a significant area for preparation. Let’s examine one common question format that has appeared multiple times in recent years.
Some people believe that the rising rates of obesity are caused by lifestyle choices, while others think governments are to blame. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two perspectives on obesity causes
- Present and support their own viewpoint
- Structure a balanced argument
- Provide relevant examples and explanations
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Obesity has become a global health crisis, and there is ongoing debate about whether individual choices or government policies are primarily responsible. While both factors contribute to this issue, I believe that personal decisions play a more significant role in weight management.
Those who blame individual lifestyle choices argue that people’s daily decisions about diet and exercise directly impact their weight. Indeed, the consumption of processed foods, sugary drinks, and oversized portions, combined with sedentary lifestyles, has become increasingly common in modern society. For instance, studies show that individuals who regularly prepare home-cooked meals and maintain active lifestyles are less likely to develop obesity, regardless of government interventions.
Conversely, proponents of government responsibility contend that authorities have failed to adequately regulate the food industry or provide sufficient public health education. They point to the widespread availability of unhealthy food options, misleading advertising, and the high cost of nutritious alternatives. For example, in many urban areas, fast-food restaurants significantly outnumber fresh produce markets, making healthy choices less accessible.
In my opinion, while governments can create supportive environments for healthy living, ultimate responsibility lies with individuals. No amount of regulation can force people to make healthy choices if they are not personally committed to maintaining a balanced lifestyle. However, I believe the most effective approach combines personal responsibility with governmental support through education programs and policies that make healthy options more accessible and affordable.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, obesity has become a serious problem in many countries. Some people think it’s because of personal choices, while others blame the government. I will discuss both views and share my opinion.
On one hand, many people believe that obesity is caused by individual choices. People often choose to eat too much fast food and don’t exercise enough. They spend lots of time watching TV or using computers instead of being active. Also, many people prefer convenient processed foods over healthy, home-cooked meals.
However, others argue that governments are responsible for the obesity problem. They say that governments don’t do enough to control food companies or educate people about healthy eating. For example, there are many advertisements for unhealthy foods, and healthy food is often more expensive than junk food.
In my opinion, both individuals and governments share responsibility for solving the obesity problem. While people need to make better choices about their diet and exercise, governments should help by making healthy food more affordable and providing better health education.
Key Vocabulary Words:
- Sedentary (adj) /ˈsed.ən.ter.i/ – involving little movement or activity
- Proponents (n) /prəˈpəʊ.nənts/ – people who support an idea or theory
- Intervention (n) /ˌɪn.təˈven.ʃən/ – the action of becoming involved in a situation
- Accessible (adj) /əkˈses.ə.bəl/ – easy to obtain or use
- Regulation (n) /ˌreɡ.jʊˈleɪ.ʃən/ – an official rule that controls how something is done
Conclusion
This topic remains highly relevant for IELTS candidates. Similar questions might focus on:
- The role of schools in preventing childhood obesity
- The impact of technology on obesity rates
- The effectiveness of public health campaigns
Practice writing your own response to this question and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion.