IELTS Writing Task 2: Drug Legalization (Positive Negative) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Discuss the positive and negative aspects of legalizing drugs. Give relevant examples and give your opinion.

Model Answers

Band 6.0 Answer

The legalization of drugs has both positive and negative effects. On the positive side, legalization could reduce crime rates because drug dealers would be out of business. Additionally, the government could earn money from taxes on drugs. However, there are also negative aspects. Legal drugs might lead to more addiction and health problems. In my opinion, the negative effects outweigh the positives, so drugs should remain illegal.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a position but with limited development (Band 6)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Logical but basic organization (Band 6)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Limited range of vocabulary (Band 6)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Frequent errors in sentence formation (Band 6)

Band 7.0 Answer

The debate surrounding drug legalization is complex, with compelling arguments on both sides. Proponents argue that legalization could decrease black market activity and provide governments with substantial tax revenue. For instance, countries like Portugal have seen reduced drug-related crimes since decriminalization. Conversely, opponents warn of increased addiction rates and public health crises. They cite the opioid epidemic in the United States as a cautionary tale. In my view, while legalization offers economic benefits, the potential health risks make it a risky policy.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with some development (Band 7)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Logical organization with clear progression (Band 7)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Adequate range of vocabulary (Band 7)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Occasional errors but generally accurate (Band 7)

Band 8.0 Answer

The legalization of drugs presents a multifaceted issue with significant implications for society. Advocates of legalization contend that it could curtail the power of drug cartels and generate considerable tax income. For example, Canada's legalization of cannabis has led to a boom in legal businesses and a decline in illegal trafficking. However, detractors argue that legalization could normalize drug use, leading to a surge in addiction and associated health issues. The rise in vaping among youth in the U.S. since the legalization of e-cigarettes serves as a pertinent example. In my opinion, while the economic benefits are enticing, the potential social costs necessitate a cautious approach.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with thorough development (Band 8)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Logical organization with clear progression and cohesive devices (Band 8)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Adequate range of vocabulary with some sophistication (Band 8)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Generally accurate with some complex sentence structures (Band 8)

Band 9.0 Answer

The legalization of drugs is a contentious issue with profound societal implications. Proponents advocate that it could dismantle the black market, reduce crime, and provide governments with substantial tax revenues. For instance, Uruguay's pioneering legalization of cannabis has demonstrated a reduction in drug-related violence and an increase in state revenue. Conversely, critics posit that legalization could exacerbate public health crises, normalize drug use, and lead to increased addiction rates. The alarming rise in methamphetamine addiction in the Philippines following the relaxation of drug laws underscores this concern. In my view, while the economic advantages are compelling, the potential health risks and social costs necessitate a balanced and well-regulated approach to drug legalization.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): Presents a clear position with thorough development and balanced arguments (Band 9)
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): Logical organization with clear progression and sophisticated cohesive devices (Band 9)
• Lexical Resource (LR): Wide range of vocabulary with sophisticated and precise usage (Band 9)
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): Generally accurate with a mix of simple and complex sentence structures (Band 9)

Vocabulary Highlights

1. Proponents advocate - Supporters argue for

• Example: Proponents advocate for stricter regulations to ensure safety.

1. Detractors contend - Critics argue

• Example: Detractors contend that the policy will lead to negative outcomes.

1. Black market - Illegal trade

• Example: The black market for drugs is a significant problem.

1. Decriminalization - Removal of criminal penalties

• Example: Portugal's decriminalization of drugs has reduced crime rates.

1. Opioid epidemic - Widespread addiction to opioids

• Example: The opioid epidemic in the U.S. has caused numerous health issues.

1. Cautionary tale - Warning example

• Example: The U.S. opioid crisis serves as a cautionary tale.

1. Multifaceted issue - Complex problem with many aspects

• Example: Drug legalization is a multifaceted issue.

1. Cartels - Criminal organizations

• Example: Drug cartels control much of the illegal drug trade.

1. Normalize - Make something acceptable or common

• Example: Legalization could normalize drug use.

1. Surge - Sudden increase

• Example: There has been a surge in addiction rates.

1. Pertinent example - Relevant example

• Example: The U.S. vaping crisis is a pertinent example.

1. Enticing - Attractive or appealing

• Example: The economic benefits are enticing.

1. Profound implications - Significant consequences

• Example: Drug legalization has profound implications.

1. Dismantle - Break down or dismantle

• Example: Legalization could dismantle the black market.

1. Exacerbate - Make a problem worse

• Example: Legalization could exacerbate public health crises.

1. Alarming rise - Worrisome increase

• Example: There has been an alarming rise in addiction rates.

1. Relaxation of drug laws - Easing of drug regulations

• Example: The relaxation of drug laws led to increased addiction.

1. Balanced approach - Fair and considered method

• Example: A balanced approach is necessary for drug legalization.

1. Well-regulated - Properly controlled

• Example: A well-regulated market is essential.

1. State revenue - Government income

• Example: Legalization could increase state revenue.

Common Mistakes

1. Lack of Balance: Failing to present both positive and negative aspects equally.
2. Weak Examples: Using vague or irrelevant examples to support arguments.
3. Poor Coherence: Not organizing ideas logically, leading to a disjointed essay.
4. Limited Vocabulary: Using repetitive or basic vocabulary instead of a wide range.
5. Grammatical Errors: Making frequent grammatical mistakes that hinder understanding.

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