IELTS Writing Task 2: Why Public Health Initiatives are Necessary – Sample Essays and Analysis

Public health initiatives have become an increasingly important topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject frequently appears in various forms, reflecting its significance in modern society. As we analyze past exam trends and predict future occurrences, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to discuss this theme. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and provide sample essays to help you excel in your writing task.

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that public health within a country can be improved by government making laws regarding nutritional content of foods. Others think that health education is the answer to improving public health. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question addresses two different approaches to improving public health:

1. Government legislation on food nutrition
2. Health education

The task requires you to discuss both viewpoints and provide your personal opinion. Let’s break down the key elements:

• You need to explain how laws about food nutrition could improve public health
• You should discuss how health education might enhance public health
• You must present your own perspective on which approach is more effective, or if a combination of both is ideal

Remember to maintain a balanced argument while clearly stating your position.

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

Public health is a critical concern for nations worldwide, and there are differing opinions on the most effective way to enhance it. While some advocate for governmental regulation of food nutrition, others believe health education is the key. This essay will examine both approaches and argue that a combination of the two is the most effective strategy.

Proponents of government intervention argue that legislating nutritional content in foods can significantly impact public health. By enforcing strict guidelines on ingredients, such as limiting sugar and salt content, authorities can ensure that even processed foods meet certain health standards. This approach has proven successful in countries like Denmark, where a ban on trans fats led to a notable decrease in cardiovascular diseases. Moreover, such regulations can create a level playing field for food manufacturers, preventing companies from prioritizing profits over public health.

On the other hand, supporters of health education believe that empowering individuals with knowledge is the most sustainable way to improve public health. By implementing comprehensive health education programs in schools and communities, people can make informed decisions about their diet and lifestyle. This approach fosters long-term behavioral changes and can be particularly effective in combating issues like obesity and diabetes. Furthermore, educated consumers can drive market demand for healthier products, indirectly influencing food manufacturers to improve their offerings.

In my opinion, the most effective strategy would be to combine both approaches. While government regulations can provide a baseline for nutritional standards, health education ensures that people understand why these standards are important and how to make healthy choices beyond regulated products. This two-pronged approach addresses both the supply and demand sides of the health equation, creating a more holistic and sustainable solution.

In conclusion, improving public health requires a multifaceted approach. By implementing both nutritional regulations and comprehensive health education programs, governments can create an environment that not only provides healthier food options but also empowers citizens to make informed choices about their well-being. This balanced strategy holds the greatest potential for long-term improvements in public health.

(Word count: 309)

Public health initiatives infographic

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

Public health is very important for every country. Some people think the government should make laws about food nutrition to improve it, while others believe health education is better. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

Firstly, government laws about food nutrition can help public health. When the government makes rules about what companies can put in food, it means people eat healthier things without even trying. For example, if there is a law that says drinks can’t have too much sugar, people will drink less sugar and be healthier. This is good because many people don’t know how to choose healthy food on their own.

On the other hand, health education can also improve public health. If people learn about good food and exercise from a young age, they can make better choices. Schools can teach children about healthy eating, and this knowledge can last for their whole life. When people understand why being healthy is important, they might try harder to eat well and exercise.

In my opinion, both ideas are good, but I think health education is more important. While laws can help, they don’t teach people why health is important. If people learn about health, they can make good choices even when there are no laws. Also, education can help people in many areas of health, not just food.

To conclude, both government laws and health education can improve public health. However, I believe education is more effective because it helps people understand health better and make good choices on their own.

(Word count: 253)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. 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 argument.

2. Language Use: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language. For example, compare “Proponents of government intervention argue…” (Band 8-9) with “Some people think the government should…” (Band 6-7).

3. Argument Development: The higher band essay provides specific examples and more detailed explanations. It also presents a more balanced view before giving an opinion. The lower band essay, while clear, offers less depth in its arguments.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: The Band 8-9 essay uses a variety of linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly. The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler linking words but still maintains a logical flow.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay does so with greater precision and depth.

Vocabulary to Remember

Here are some useful vocabulary items related to public health initiatives:

1. Nutritional content (noun): The amount of nutrients in food
   /njuːˈtrɪʃənəl ˈkɒntent/

2. Legislation (noun): Laws or regulations made by a government
   /ledʒɪsˈleɪʃən/

3. Cardiovascular (adjective): Related to the heart and blood vessels
   /ˌkɑːdɪəʊˈvæskjʊlə(r)/

4. Empower (verb): To give someone the authority or power to do something
   /ɪmˈpaʊə(r)/

5. Holistic (adjective): Considering the whole thing or being rather than just parts
   /həʊˈlɪstɪk/

6. Sustainable (adjective): Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
   /səˈsteɪnəbl/

7. Multifaceted (adjective): Having many different aspects or features
   /ˌmʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/

8. Intervention (noun): Action taken to improve a situation
   /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/

Conclusion

Understanding Why Public Health Initiatives Are Necessary is crucial for tackling IELTS Writing Task 2 essays on this topic. By analyzing different perspectives and providing well-structured arguments, you can effectively address questions related to public health improvements.

Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:

• The role of individuals versus the government in promoting public health
• The impact of technology on public health initiatives
• Balancing personal freedom with public health measures

We encourage you to write your own essay based on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!

If you found this article helpful, you might also be interested in learning about how to foster mental health in communities or exploring why public health campaigns are important.