IELTS Writing Task 2: Smoking In Public (Positive Negative) — Band 6/7/8/9 Model Answers

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The Prompt

Discuss both the positive and negative aspects of smoking in public places. Give relevant examples and give your opinion.

Band 6.0 Model Answer

Smoking in public places is a controversial issue. Some people think it should be banned, while others believe it is a personal freedom.

On the positive side, smoking in public allows people to enjoy their habit without restrictions. Many smokers find it relaxing and social. For example, in some countries, smoking is common in bars and restaurants, creating a certain atmosphere. Additionally, banning smoking in public could lead to black market sales, which are dangerous.

However, there are also negative aspects. Smoking in public affects non-smokers, especially those with health conditions. Second-hand smoke can cause serious diseases. Moreover, smoking in public sets a bad example for children, who may start smoking themselves. Governments should regulate smoking in public places to protect public health.

In my opinion, smoking should be restricted in public places, but not completely banned. Designated smoking areas could be a good solution.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 5.0 - Presents a position but with some irrelevant or unclear points.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 6.0 - Uses some cohesive devices but with some lapses in logic.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 6.0 - Uses a mix of appropriate and limited vocabulary.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 6.0 - Makes frequent errors but meaning is usually clear.

Band 7.0 Model Answer

The issue of smoking in public places has sparked intense debate. While some advocate for a complete ban, others argue for personal freedom.

Proponents of smoking in public argue that it is a personal choice and that adults should be free to make their own decisions. For instance, in many European countries, smoking is still allowed in certain outdoor areas, and this has not led to significant public health issues. Additionally, smoking can be a social activity, bringing people together in public spaces.

On the other hand, the negative effects of smoking in public are well-documented. Non-smokers are exposed to second-hand smoke, which can lead to respiratory problems and other health issues. Children who see adults smoking may be more likely to start smoking themselves. Furthermore, smoking in public can create an unpleasant environment, affecting the enjoyment of public spaces.

In my view, a balanced approach is necessary. Smoking should be allowed in designated areas, but strict regulations should be in place to protect non-smokers and minors.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 7.0 - Presents a clear position with relevant, extended arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 7.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively but with some repetition.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 7.0 - Uses a sufficient range of vocabulary but with some errors.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 7.0 - Makes some errors but meaning is usually clear.

Band 8.0 Model Answer

The contentious issue of smoking in public places has garnered significant attention. While some advocate for a complete prohibition, others contend that personal liberties should be respected.

Advocates of smoking in public argue that it is a matter of individual freedom. In many societies, smoking is deeply ingrained in social customs. For example, in countries like France and Italy, smoking in outdoor cafes is a common practice that contributes to the cultural ambiance. Moreover, banning smoking outright could lead to a thriving black market, which poses additional risks.

Conversely, the detrimental effects of smoking in public are undeniable. Second-hand smoke poses serious health risks, particularly to vulnerable populations such as children and the elderly. Additionally, smoking in public can deter tourists and negatively impact local businesses. The visual impact of smoking can also be off-putting, making public spaces less enjoyable for non-smokers.

In my opinion, a pragmatic solution would involve designated smoking areas that are clearly marked and adequately ventilated. This approach respects the rights of both smokers and non-smokers.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 8.0 - Presents a clear position with well-developed arguments and relevant examples.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 8.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively with a clear progression of ideas.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 8.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with some sophistication.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 8.0 - Makes some errors but meaning is always clear.

Band 9.0 Model Answer

The debate surrounding smoking in public places has intensified in recent years, with proponents and opponents presenting compelling arguments.

Those in favor of allowing smoking in public places argue that it is a matter of personal freedom. In many cultures, smoking is an integral part of social interactions. For instance, in Spain, smoking in outdoor terraces is a common practice that enhances the social experience. Furthermore, a complete ban could lead to an increase in illegal smoking activities, which are harder to regulate and pose additional health risks.

However, the negative impacts of smoking in public are well-documented. Second-hand smoke is a significant health hazard, contributing to respiratory diseases and other ailments. The presence of smokers in public places can also deter non-smokers, affecting the overall enjoyment of public spaces. Additionally, smoking in public sets a poor example for younger generations, who may be influenced to adopt this harmful habit.

In my view, a balanced approach is necessary. Designated smoking areas should be established, equipped with proper ventilation and clear signage. This solution respects the rights of both smokers and non-smokers, ensuring that public spaces remain enjoyable for all.

Scoring Breakdown

• Task Response (TR): 9.0 - Presents a clear position with fully extended and supported arguments.
• Coherence and Cohesion (CC): 9.0 - Uses cohesive devices effectively with a clear progression of ideas.
• Lexical Resource (LR): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of vocabulary with sophistication and precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy (GRA): 9.0 - Uses a wide range of structures with minimal errors.

Vocabulary Highlights

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

• Example: The issue of smoking in public is highly controversial.

1. Prohibition (noun) - The act of forbidding something.

• Example: The prohibition of smoking in public places has been debated extensively.

1. Ingrained (adj.) - Firmly established; deeply rooted.

• Example: Smoking is deeply ingrained in many social customs.

1. Ambience (noun) - The character or mood of a place.

• Example: Smoking contributes to the ambience of outdoor cafes.

1. Detrimental (adj.) - Harmful; damaging.

• Example: The detrimental effects of smoking are well-documented.

1. Ventilated (adj.) - Provided with fresh air.

• Example: Designated smoking areas should be properly ventilated.

1. Off-putting (adj.) - Unpleasant or discouraging.

• Example: The sight of smoking can be off-putting to non-smokers.

1. Thriving (adj.) - Prospering; flourishing.

• Example: A ban on smoking could lead to a thriving black market.

1. Respiratory (adj.) - Relating to the lungs and breathing.

• Example: Second-hand smoke poses respiratory risks.

1. Deter (verb) - To discourage someone from doing something.

• Example: Smoking in public can deter tourists.

1. Ailments (noun) - Illnesses or health problems.

• Example: Second-hand smoke contributes to various ailments.

1. Integral (adj.) - Essential; necessary.

• Example: Smoking is an integral part of social interactions in some cultures.

1. Hazard (noun) - A danger or risk.

• Example: Second-hand smoke is a significant health hazard.

1. Enjoyment (noun) - The state of taking pleasure in something.

• Example: Smoking can affect the enjoyment of public spaces.

1. Pragmatic (adj.) - Practical and sensible.

• Example: A pragmatic solution involves designated smoking areas.

1. Proponent (noun) - A person who supports a particular idea or cause.

• Example: Proponents of smoking argue for personal freedom.

1. Opponent (noun) - A person who opposes a particular idea or cause.

• Example: Opponents of smoking highlight its negative impacts.

1. Regulate (verb) - To control or supervise something.

• Example: Governments should regulate smoking in public places.

1. Vulnerable (adj.) - Susceptible to harm or attack.

• Example: Second-hand smoke poses risks to vulnerable populations.

1. Signage (noun) - Signs or notices.

• Example: Designated smoking areas should have clear signage.

Common Mistakes Students Make

1. Lack of Balance - Failing to discuss both positive and negative aspects equally.
2. Weak Vocabulary - Using limited or repetitive vocabulary.
3. Poor Structure - Not organizing the essay with clear paragraphs and cohesive devices.
4. Grammatical Errors - Making frequent grammatical mistakes that obscure meaning.
5. Irrelevant Examples - Using examples that do not support the argument.

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