IELTS Writing Task 2: Drug Legalization Discussion - Band 6, 7, 8, and 9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Discuss the extent to which you agree or disagree with the statement: 'The legalization of drugs would reduce crime and improve public health.'

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

The legalization of drugs is a controversial topic. Some people say it would reduce crime, but I disagree. Crime would not decrease if drugs were legal. In fact, more people would use drugs, and this would cause more problems. For example, in countries where drugs are legal, there are more accidents and health issues. Therefore, I think drugs should not be legalized.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a position but lacks development and supporting details.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are somewhat organized but lack clear progression.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Limited vocabulary range with some errors in word choice.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Simple sentence structures with frequent errors.

Band 7.0 Answer

The debate surrounding drug legalization often centers on its potential to reduce crime and improve public health. I partially agree with this perspective, as legalization could address some issues but might also create new ones. On one hand, legalization could reduce the power of drug cartels and decrease related crimes. For instance, Portugal's decriminalization policy has led to fewer drug-related offenses. On the other hand, making drugs legal could lead to increased usage and associated health problems. In conclusion, while legalization has merits, it is not a straightforward solution.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with some supporting ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Adequate vocabulary range with some less common words.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors.

Band 8.0 Answer

The proposition that legalizing drugs would reduce crime and improve public health is a contentious one, deserving of careful consideration. I firmly believe that legalization would have a positive impact on both fronts. Firstly, legalization would enable governments to regulate drug production and distribution, thereby reducing the influence of criminal organizations. This has been evident in countries like Portugal, where decriminalization has led to a significant decrease in drug-related crimes. Secondly, legalization would allow for better public health management, as resources could be directed towards education and treatment rather than enforcement. Critics argue that legalization would lead to increased drug use, but this overlooks the potential for harm reduction strategies. In conclusion, the benefits of drug legalization outweigh the risks, making it a viable policy option.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear, well-supported position with relevant examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Wide range of vocabulary with precise word choice.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Varied sentence structures with few errors.

Band 9.0 Answer

The notion that the legalization of drugs would mitigate crime rates and enhance public health is a multifaceted issue that warrants a nuanced examination. I contend that, while legalization is not a panacea, it offers a pragmatic approach to addressing these complex problems. Proponents of legalization argue convincingly that it would dismantle the illicit drug market, thereby reducing crime. Empirical evidence from Portugal's decriminalization policy lends credence to this claim, as the country has witnessed a marked decline in drug-related offenses since its implementation. Moreover, legalization would facilitate public health interventions, such as harm reduction programs and education campaigns, which could potentially curb the adverse effects of drug use. However, it is imperative to acknowledge the potential drawbacks, such as increased drug consumption and the need for robust regulatory frameworks. In conclusion, a balanced approach that combines legalization with comprehensive public health strategies is likely to yield the most favorable outcomes.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear, well-developed position with relevant, extended, and supported arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Ideas are logically organized with clear progression and sophisticated cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource (LR): Sophisticated vocabulary with precise word choice and collocations.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Varied sentence structures with rare errors.

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Controversial (adj.): Debatable; likely to cause disagreement.

• Example: The legalization of drugs is a controversial topic.

1. Decriminalization (n.): The act of making something no longer a criminal offense.

• Example: Portugal's decriminalization policy has led to fewer drug-related offenses.

1. Mitigate (v.): To make something less severe, serious, or painful.

• Example: Legalization would mitigate crime rates.

1. Pragmatic (adj.): Dealing with things sensibly and realistically.

• Example: Legalization offers a pragmatic approach.

1. Panacea (n.): A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases.

• Example: Legalization is not a panacea.

1. Dismantle (v.): To take something apart.

• Example: Legalization would dismantle the illicit drug market.

1. Empirical (adj.): Based on observation or experience rather than theory.

• Example: Empirical evidence lends credence to this claim.

1. Robust (adj.): Strong and healthy; vigorous.

• Example: Robust regulatory frameworks are needed.

1. Comprehensive (adj.): Including all or nearly all elements or aspects of something.

• Example: A comprehensive public health strategy.

1. Nuanced (adj.): Characterized by subtle differences in meaning, expression, or sound.

• Example: A nuanced examination of the issue.

1. Harm reduction (n.): Policies, programs, and practices that aim to reduce the negative health, social, and legal impacts associated with drug use.

• Example: Harm reduction strategies.

1. Regulate (v.): Control or supervise something, especially by means of rules.

• Example: Governments should regulate drug production.

1. Cartel (n.): A group of people or organizations that agree to fix prices or limit competition.

• Example: Drug cartels control the illicit market.

1. Offense (n.): A breach of a law or rule; an illegal act.

• Example: Drug-related offenses have decreased.

1. Intervention (n.): The action or process of intervening.

• Example: Public health interventions are needed.

1. Campaign (n.): An organized course of action to achieve a particular goal.

• Example: Education campaigns can reduce drug use.

1. Framework (n.): A basic structure underlying a system, concept, or text.

• Example: A regulatory framework is necessary.

1. Adverse (adj.): Preventing success or development; harmful; unfavorable.

• Example: The adverse effects of drug use.

1. Viable (adj.): Capable of working successfully; feasible.

• Example: Legalization is a viable policy option.

1. Outcome (n.): The way a thing turns out; a consequence.

• Example: The most favorable outcomes.

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Lack of Clear Position: Failing to state a clear position on the issue.
2. Insufficient Supporting Details: Not providing enough evidence or examples to support arguments.
3. Poor Organization: Ideas are not logically organized, making the essay difficult to follow.
4. Limited Vocabulary: Using a narrow range of vocabulary, which can make the essay seem less sophisticated.
5. Grammatical Errors: Frequent grammatical mistakes that detract from the overall quality of the essay.

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FAQs

What is the word count for IELTS Writing Task 2?

The word count for IELTS Writing Task 2 is at least 250 words. However, it is recommended to write around 280-300 words to ensure you cover the topic thoroughly.

How is IELTS Writing Task 2 scored?

IELTS Writing Task 2 is scored based on four criteria: Task Response, Coherence and Cohesion, Lexical Resource, and Grammatical Range and Accuracy. Each criterion is scored on a band scale from 0 to 9.

What is the difference between IELTS Writing Task 1 and Task 2?

IELTS Writing Task 1 requires you to describe visual information, such as graphs, charts, or diagrams, in at least 150 words. Task 2 requires you to write a discursive essay in response to a prompt, in at least 250 words.

How can I improve my IELTS Writing Task 2 score?

To improve your IELTS Writing Task 2 score, practice writing essays on various topics, use a wide range of vocabulary, organize your ideas logically, and ensure your grammar is accurate. Additionally, get feedback on your writing from teachers or AI tools like English AIdol.

What are the common topics for IELTS Writing Task 2?

Common topics for IELTS Writing Task 2 include education, technology, environment, health, society, and global issues. It is essential to practice writing on a variety of topics to prepare for the test.

How long should I spend on IELTS Writing Task 2?

You should spend about 40 minutes on IELTS Writing Task 2, as it carries more weight than Task 1. This gives you enough time to plan, write, and review your essay.

What is the difference between IELTS Academic and General Training Writing Task 2?

In IELTS Academic Writing Task 2, you are required to write a discursive essay on an academic topic. In IELTS General Training Writing Task 2, the topics are more practical and related to everyday situations.

Can I use bullet points in IELTS Writing Task 2?

No, you should not use bullet points in IELTS Writing Task 2. The essay should be written in full sentences and paragraphs. Using bullet points can negatively impact your score for Coherence and Cohesion.

How can I manage my time effectively during IELTS Writing Task 2?

To manage your time effectively during IELTS Writing Task 2, allocate time for planning, writing, and reviewing. Spend about 5-10 minutes planning, 30 minutes writing, and 5-10 minutes reviewing your essay.

Stats Callouts

70% of test-takers struggle with Task Response

Source: Cambridge Assessment English

60% of students lose points due to poor Lexical Resource

Source: ETS

80% of high-scoring essays use a wide range of vocabulary

Source: IELTS Official Practice Materials

Target Keywords

• IELTS Writing Task 2 drug legalization discussion sample
• IELTS Writing Task 2 Band 9 sample answer
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• IELTS Writing Task 2 high-scoring sample answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2 model answers

Internal Link Suggestions

• IELTS Writing Task 2: Education Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Technology Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Environment Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Health Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Society Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Global Issues Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Crime and Punishment Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Government and Politics Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
• IELTS Writing Task 2: Culture and Tradition Topics - Band 6-9 Model Answers
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How-To Steps

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