IELTS Writing Task 2 essay with model answer

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

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

Write at least 250 words.

Model Answer:

One of the highly controversial issues today relates to whether the judiciary system should adopt fixed sentences for all crimes, or it should consider the circumstances and motivation behind each crime. In this essay, I am going to shed some light on this question from both points of view and extend my support to the latter opinion.

On one side of the argument there are people who argue that the benefits of adopting a fixed punishment structure for the crimes committed considerably outweigh its disadvantages. This is because fixed punishments will probably save a lot of time and money that could otherwise be directed for use in much needed services in other sectors of the community such as health and education. Another reason for believing this is that criminals will think twice before they commit any crime, as they would realize that punishment is going to be swift and strict. One good illustration of this is the declined rate of crimes in some countries that adopt a very strict and harsh punitive system.

Submit Task For Review ($15)

On the other hand, it is also possible to make the opposing case. It is often argued that in many cases there are extenuating circumstances behind many of the crimes committed, especially the minor ones. People often have this opinion because in many countries and communities there may be strong factors influencing crime rates such as poverty and blackmailing. Therefore, it is crucial for judges to consider all the circumstances surrounding a defendant or a case to issue a just and fair verdict. For instance, a young woman convicted of public misconduct may have been forced into prostitution due to poverty. Thus, it goes without saying that their viewpoint is credible and realistic.    

In my opinion, both arguments have their merits. On balance, however, I tend to believe that considering the circumstances behind each crime is paramount in order to reach a fair and just verdict in the courtroom.

Total Words: 322

Task Achievement: 9

Coherence & Cohesion: 9

Lexical resources: 8

Grammar: 8

Overall Score: Band 8.5

For unlimited feedback with speaking and writing tasks sign up for IELTS Twenty20 Online Course today!

Study 20 minutes a day for 20 days and Ace the IELTS exam.