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Ielts writing task 2 sample 418 - is education the answer to stop people from eating junk food, ielts writing task 2/ ielts essay:, junk food is quite harmful to our generation and we need an educated generation to stop it. is education the answer to stop people from eating junk food.

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Diet and Health

Diet and Health Essay

This model diet and health essay examines the extent to which individuals or governments should be responsible for health.

Some people believe that it is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. Others however believe that governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

IELTS essays are usually about current topics of controversy, and the declining health of many nations is certainly of concern to many countries at the present time.

This essay asks you to examine both sides of an issue and to give your opinion.

This means that you must look at both the arguments that are presented. In this case, these are:

1. It is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. 2. Governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet.

You must of course also give your opinion.

IELTS Diet and Health Essay

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Write about the following topic:

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own experience or knowledge.

Write at least 250 words.

Diet and Health Essay Model Answer

An increasing concern for many governments around the world is the declining health of their citizens due to a poor diet. While some people believe governments should be responsible for improving the health of their nation, others believe it is up to the individual. This essay will examine both sides of the argument.

There is no doubt that individuals must take some responsibility for their diet and health. The argument to support this is the fact that adults have free will and make their own choices about what they eat and the exercise that they do. Children are also becoming less healthy. However, their parents are the ones who provide their evening meals so it is their responsibility to ensure these meals are nutritious and encourage them to avoid junk food and sugary snacks during the day.

Despite these arguments, there is also a case for advocating the intervention of the state. People these days often have little choice but to depend on fast food or ready meals that are high in sugar, salt and fat due to the pressures of work. Governments could regulate the ingredients of such food. Some governments also spend huge amounts of tax money on treating health problems of their citizens in hospitals. It would be logical to spend this on preventative measures such as campaigns to encourage exercise and a good diet.

Having considered both sides of the issue, I would argue that although individuals must take ultimate responsibility for what they eat, governments also have a role to play as only they can regulate the food supply, which openly encourages a poor diet. It is only through this combination that we can improve people’s health.

(282 Words)

The IELTS diet and health essay has a number of good points which would means it would score highly in the test.

The introduction clearly introduces the topic and sets out both sides of the issue. There is then a clear thesis statement to explain what the essay will do:

This essay will examine both sides of the argument.

Coherence and cohesion are evident from the topic sentences which make the subject of each paragraph very clear:

There is no doubt that individuals must take some responsibility for their diet and health. Despite these arguments, there is also a case for advocating the intervention of the state.

Transitional phrases and words also guide the reader through the essay. For example:

The argument to support this is... Children are also becoming less healthy. However , their parents... Despite these arguments , there is also ... Some governments also spend... Having considered both sides of the issue,

The conclusion summarises the writers opinion very clearly. It is always important to make it very clear what your opinion is if it is an opinion essay (you could put your opinion in the introduction too if you wish).

The grammar and vocabulary are appropriate, with a mix of complex sentences and topic related vocabulary.

The content of the essay is also appropriate. It clearly addresses both opinions and provides a number of points to support each argument. The ideas are clearly explained and will not cause any misunderstanding for someone reading the essay.

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Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Diet, Exercise, and Life Expectancy (Band 6-9)

The topic of How Diet And Exercise Influence Overall Life Expectancy is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams and current trends, this subject is likely to appear …

Written by: IELTS Mentor

Published on: September 25, 2024

Some people believe that it is the responsibility of individuals to take care of their own health and diet. Others however believe that governments should make sure that their citizens have a healthy diet. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Table of Contents

Analyzing the Question

This question addresses the debate over personal versus governmental responsibility for health and diet. It requires candidates to:

Discuss the view that individuals are responsible for their own health and diet
Discuss the opposing view that governments should ensure citizens have a healthy diet
Provide their own opinion on the matter

A well-structured essay should include an introduction, two body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, a paragraph stating the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion.

Sample Essays

Band 8-9 essay.

The question of whether individuals or governments should bear the responsibility for public health and nutrition is a matter of ongoing debate. While some argue that personal choices should dictate health outcomes, others contend that governmental intervention is necessary to ensure a healthy population. In my opinion, while individual responsibility is crucial, government support and guidance play an indispensable role in promoting public health.

Proponents of individual responsibility argue that personal health choices, including diet and exercise, are fundamentally private matters. They believe that each person should have the freedom to make their own decisions regarding what they eat and how they maintain their health. This view emphasizes personal autonomy and suggests that individuals are best positioned to understand and cater to their unique health needs. Moreover, advocates of this perspective might argue that relying on personal responsibility fosters a sense of accountability and motivation for maintaining one’s health.

On the other hand, those who support governmental involvement in public health contend that many health issues are societal problems that require collective action. They argue that governments have the resources and authority to implement wide-reaching policies that can significantly impact public health. For instance, governments can regulate food industries to reduce harmful ingredients, implement educational programs about nutrition, and create environments that promote physical activity. Supporters of this view might point to successful public health initiatives, such as smoking bans or mandatory food labeling, as evidence of the effectiveness of government intervention.

In my opinion, the most effective approach to public health combines both individual responsibility and government support. While individuals should ultimately make their own health decisions, governments play a crucial role in creating an environment that facilitates healthy choices. For example, governments can provide accurate health information, ensure access to nutritious food options, and design cities that encourage physical activity. This balanced approach recognizes the importance of personal choice while acknowledging the significant impact that societal factors have on individual health outcomes.

In conclusion, the responsibility for health and diet should be shared between individuals and governments. While personal choices are fundamental to health outcomes, governmental policies and support are essential in creating a society that promotes and facilitates healthy living. By combining individual accountability with effective public health measures, we can create a more robust and healthier society.

Healthy lifestyle habits including diet and exercise

Band 6-7 Essay

The debate about who should be responsible for people’s health and diet is an important topic. Some people think individuals should take care of their own health, while others believe the government should make sure citizens eat healthily. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

On one hand, many people believe that individuals should be responsible for their own health and diet. They say that people have the right to choose what they eat and how they live their lives. It’s a personal choice, and the government shouldn’t interfere. Also, people know their own bodies best, so they can make better decisions about their health than the government can.

On the other hand, some people think the government should make sure citizens have a healthy diet. They argue that many people don’t have enough knowledge about nutrition, so the government should provide education and guidelines. The government can also regulate food companies to make sure they produce healthier foods. This can help prevent health problems like obesity and diabetes, which are becoming more common.

In my opinion, both individuals and the government have important roles to play in promoting good health and diet. People should take responsibility for their own choices, but the government should provide support and information to help them make better decisions. For example, the government can create programs to teach people about healthy eating and provide affordable, healthy food options.

In conclusion, while individuals should be responsible for their own health choices, the government also has a role in promoting healthy diets. By working together, individuals and governments can create a healthier society for everyone.

Band 5-6 Essay

Some people think individuals should take care of their own health and diet. Others think the government should make sure citizens eat healthy. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.

First, some people say individuals should be responsible for their health. They think people can choose what to eat and how to live. It’s their own life, so they should decide. Also, people know what they like to eat, so they can make their own choices.

Second, other people think the government should help citizens eat healthy. They say the government can make rules for food companies to make healthier food. The government can also teach people about good food choices. This can help stop problems like people getting too fat.

I think both ideas are important. People should try to be healthy, but the government can help too. The government can give information about healthy food and make it easier for people to buy good food. But people still need to make their own choices.

In conclusion, both individuals and the government have a job in making people healthy. If they work together, everyone can be healthier.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 essay:.

This essay demonstrates excellent writing skills and a sophisticated approach to the topic. Key strengths include:

Coherent structure : Clear introduction, balanced discussion of both viewpoints, well-articulated personal opinion, and a strong conclusion.
Vocabulary : Use of advanced vocabulary and idiomatic expressions (e.g., “ongoing debate”, “indispensable role”, “fosters a sense of accountability”).
Grammar : Variety of complex sentence structures used accurately.
Task response : Fully addresses all parts of the question with well-developed ideas and a clear position.
Cohesion and coherence : Ideas flow logically with effective use of cohesive devices.

Band 6-7 Essay:

This essay shows a good understanding of the task and adequate writing skills. Strengths include:

Structure : Clear organization with an introduction, discussion of both views, personal opinion, and conclusion.
Vocabulary : Good use of topic-related vocabulary, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay.
Grammar : Mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control.
Task response : Addresses all parts of the question, though ideas are less fully developed.
Cohesion and coherence : Ideas are logically organized, though transitions could be smoother.

Band 5-6 Essay:

This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the task but with limitations. Features include:

Structure : Basic organization is present, but paragraphs are less developed.
Vocabulary : Limited range of vocabulary with some repetition.
Grammar : Mainly simple sentences with some errors that don’t impede understanding.
Task response : Addresses the main points of the question but with limited development.
Cohesion and coherence : Basic logical progression, but lacks sophisticated linking words.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

Responsibility (noun) /rɪˌspɒnsəˈbɪləti/ – the state or fact of being accountable or to blame for something

Intervention (noun) /ˌɪntəˈvenʃn/ – the action or process of intervening

Autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – the right or condition of self-government

Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – the fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility

Implement (verb) /ˈɪmplɪment/ – put (a decision, plan, agreement, etc.) into effect

Facilitate (verb) /fəˈsɪlɪteɪt/ – make (an action or process) easy or easier

Regulation (noun) /ˌreɡjuˈleɪʃn/ – a rule or directive made and maintained by an authority

Initiative (noun) /ɪˈnɪʃətɪv/ – the ability to assess and initiate things independently

Healthy eating education program in schools

Understanding how to approach IELTS Writing Task 2 questions about diet, exercise, and life expectancy is crucial for success in the exam. The sample essays provided demonstrate different levels of writing proficiency and offer insights into what examiners look for at various band scores.

For future practice, consider these potential related topics:

The role of schools in promoting healthy lifestyles among children
The impact of fast food culture on public health
The effectiveness of government campaigns in improving national health

To improve your writing skills, try composing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article. Share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your IELTS Writing performance!

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IELTS Writing Task2 Essays

Food and Diet

Perfect your writing skills in Food and Diet topics for IELTS Task 2 with IELTS24. Expert-crafted questions and essays help you prepare thoroughly.

IELTS24's Food and Diet segment for IELTS Writing Task 2 serves up a menu of provocative essay prompts, exploring the relationship between nutrition, health, and culture. Our model essays exemplify the level of critical thinking and persuasive writing that the IELTS demands, covering various topics from global dietary trends to the socio-economic aspects of food. Detailed feedback from practice sessions aims to nurture a nuanced understanding and the ability to write essays that stand out in the IELTS evaluation process.

IELTS Writing Task 2 Discursive Essay of Band 8.0 – Topic : Health and Food

Updated On Oct 18, 2021

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Sample essay, band 9 sample essay.

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Scientists agree that people are damaging their health by eating too much junk food. Some people think that the answer to this problem is to educate people. Others think education will not work. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

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Discussion essay

Introduction

Paraphrase the topic of the essay.
Give an insight into what can be expected from the essay.
Paragraph 1- On the one hand, education can stop people from further damaging their health by consuming fast food. From my perspective, although many eat fast food because of its affordability, the root cause of this lies in the fact that they are not adequately educated about the damaging consequences of junk food consumption, and the benefits of healthy eating.
On the other hand, education alone will not work. The fact is that many people who are aware of the consequences of eating junk food are unduly pessimistic.

Conclude the topic of the essay by making an inference from it.

Fast food has been proven to be the main culprit of obesity and other diet-related diseases, however, the habit of eating an excessive amount of fast food has never lost momentum. One school of thought holds that education can rectify this situation. However, there is still much scepticism about the effect of education. In this essay, both of these viewpoints will be analysed.

On the one hand, education can stop people from further damaging their health by consuming fast food. From my perspective, although many eat fast food because of its affordability, the root cause of this lies in the fact that they are not adequately educated about the damaging consequences of junk food consumption, and the benefits of healthy eating. According to recent studies conducted in the neighbourhoods where fast food stores are easily accessible, more than two-quarters of the residents know or care little about what they are consuming and how it can affect their health.

On the other hand, education alone will not work. The fact is that many people who are aware of the consequences of eating junk food are unduly pessimistic. In other words, they are often in denial and convince themselves that unhealthy habits are not as terrible as the media want them to believe. Secondly, it is very difficult for fast food eaters to reduce their dependency on fast food because it contains many addictive artificial flavours.

All things considered, education is one viable solution to put a stop to the obesity epidemic, but it does not suffice. I feel that more efforts should be made to combat obesity.

To be the main culprit of: be the main reason for
To lose momentum: become unpopular
Accessible (adj. ) easily bought
Because of its affordability: because it is cheap
To be in denial: be unwilling to accept
Reduce dependency: become less dependent
Obesity epidemic: the problem of obesity
It does not suffice: it is not enough.
Combat (v.) fight against

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In the wake of deteriorating and appalling health conditions of people today, scientists hold unhealthy food as the prime driving force behind it. Some people conjecture that this problem could be contained with proper education, while others don’t believe that could alleviate the issue alone. In this essay, we shall look upon both aspects and how the latter opinion is somehow correct.

The junk food on the platter has been considerably thriving owing to people’s convenience when it comes to having processed food just a doorstep away. A surge in the junk food market and its consumption, as some people say, is due to the oblivion of the generation and society, at large, today. People are ignorant when it comes to the causative, hazardous and catastrophic dynamics of such unhealthy, pernicious and st times, unhygienic food items that may render them frail, severely ill and deficient in the terms of nutrition. Hence, as is proposed by some, the government should take necessary steps in acknowledging and making people aware of such routine and dietary patterns that in the long run, could even be fatal.

However, education and information alone can’t wrap up the wound as people despite knowing the ill effects tend to drag such health sermons at the back seat and hence go by the sporadic sensation of taste. Technology and the modern digital era is most certainly the first and primary cause of it, as now the favourite food is just a “Click & Buy ” away. Not just that, with the upsurge of the digital epoch, the very idea and reflection of it of making the lives easier has indeed, made the lifestyle unhealthier than ever. Sedentary lifestyle, dormant state, frozen feet and barren body are just some of the deleterious physical effects of it, without even getting to the other aspects of it. With a wide plethora of options and alternatives which comes along with the new age, people choose the best ones. Now in order to keep up with the ever-growing demand and neck-jolting strife, the inculcation of the tastier and hazardous sweet poisons to the food material grows. The more people get away with the gustatory aspect of it, the worse they do with their physiologies. In such a case, education alone can’t tackle the demon of junk food, rather limiting and monitoring the advertisements or even precautions while advertising it should be acknowledged. Increasing the taxes on junk foods could yet again be a great alternative as money matters.

With this we can safely conclude that other than education alone there are some different prophylactic measures that could be taken to halt and digress the fast-moving junk food trend, thereby, saving people from the perils of derelict health.

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Janet had been an IELTS Trainer before she dived into the field of Content Writing. During her days of being a Trainer, Janet had written essays and sample answers which got her students an 8+ band in the IELTS Test. Her contributions to our articles have been engaging and simple to help the students understand and grasp the information with ease. Janet, born and brought up in California, had no idea about the IELTS until she moved to study in Canada. Her peers leaned to her for help as her first language was English.

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IELTS UNLOCKED

Samples, tips, and tricks to beat the ielts test, ielts essays (basic to band 9): discuss – junk food.

Scientists agree that many people eat too much junk food and it is damaging their health. Some people think that this problem can be solved by educating people, while others believe that education will not work. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

THINGS TO REMEMBER

(1) Make sure you discuss BOTH sides. Aim for TWO ideas for each side, but you must have at least ONE for each.

(2) You can give your opinion in the CONCLUSION. In the introduction, you can just say you’re going to look at both sides before making a decision.

(3) Try to add some synonyms for the words you will frequently use (e.g. “junk food”), but only use them if you are sure it is a good replacement. For example, “fast food” is not necessarily a replacement for “junk food”.

NOTE – The following contains two sample essays: a simple one and an advanced one. The simple one has some linking vocabulary and useful terms included in bold. The advanced one is written at a Band 9 level.

Sample answer one (simple).

It is certainly true that people nowadays eat a lot of junk food and eating too much of this can be harmful to our health. While some believe that education can solve this problem, a significant number of people believe that education will not be effective.

People who support educating people about the dangers of junk food think that if fast food eaters knew exactly what they were eating, they would stop or at least reduce how much they eat. Junk food is available everywhere and is often cheap and marketed in an attractive way, so it seems like a good choice for consumers. However , people often do not know about the high levels of sugar, fat, and other things that are added to junk food to make it last longer and taste better. If they were educated about this, like smokers are about smoking, then they would be likely to eat less junk food or stop completely.

On the other hand , those who believe education will not work argue that people already know that junk food is not good for them, but they still keep eating it. No one believes that a candy bar is healthier than a piece of fruit. Moreover , warning labels on other harmful products, like cigarettes, are usually ignored because the product is so addictive.

Overall, it seems that education is part of the answer but not the whole one . Most people know that junk food is not good for us, but they continue to eat it. Therefore, apart from educating people, other solutions are needed, like higher taxes on junk food. (267 words)

SAMPLE ANSWER TWO (Advanced)

There is currently a consensus among scientists that excessive consumption of junk food has disastrous consequences for our health. To overcome this, many believe that education is key, but others argue that attempting to educate people is futile. The following discussion will look at both sides of the issue before attempting to reach a conclusion on the effectiveness of education in relation to curbing the effects of junk food.

Advocates of education state that if people truly knew what substances they were putting into their bodies and the deleterious effects those substances have, they would immediately cut down on junk food, or even eliminate it from their diet. Because junk food is often presented in bright packaging and appealing names, it is necessary to address this imbalance by making people aware of what the ‘food’ they are eating consists of.

However, those who believe education is doomed to fail state that most consumers are already fully aware of the dangers of junk food, but continue to eat it because they are addicted or because they simply do not care about the risks. For example, cigarette smokers regularly ignore the warning labels on cigarette packs even though smoking is probably more dangerous than eating junk food.

To conclude, it seems that education alone is not enough to counter the harm caused by over-indulging in junk food because an individual’s awareness of the risks is not enough to stop them from purchasing junk food. While education can be helpful, it is necessary to also implement stronger measures, such as raising taxes on junk food or banning the sale to vulnerable groups, like children. (271 words)

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