Prison is the Common Way in Most Countries to Solve the Problem of Crime - IELTS Writing Task 2

This is an IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion (Argumentative) Essay that explores whether improving education is a better solution to crime than imprisonment. In this type of essay, you need to present your opinion clearly and support it with logical arguments and examples. This blog includes 3 Band 9 sample answers with Band 9-level vocabulary to help you understand how to structure and write a top-scoring opinion essay.

Question

Outline

Essay Type

• Opinion Essay

Introduction

• Paraphrase the topic sentence.
• Clearly mention the view on the essay topic.

Body

• Paragraph 1 – I would argue that prison is effective in dealing with offenders. One reason is that a person who commits a crime must learn that unlawful actions have consequences.
• Paragraph 2 – I consider that education has a complementary role to play. Firstly, in schools, students should study some aspects of the law which affect their lives.

Conclusion

• Conclude the essay by reinstating the final verdict on the topic.

Prison is the Common Way in Most Countries to Solve the Problem of Crime - Sample Answer 1

Many people believe that the reduction of the crime rate will be achieved more effectively through better education rather than prison sentences. I disagree with this view, because I consider that both approaches have their own distinctive merits and should each play an integral role in tackling crime.

On the one hand, I would argue that prison is effective in dealing with offenders. One reason is that a person who commits a crime must learn that unlawful actions have consequences. Murderers, for instance, must be imprisoned for many years and such a punishment may act as a deterrent. They know that they will face loss of freedom, social isolation and separation from their loved ones if they carry out such a criminal act. Another reason is that when serious offenders are behind bars, they are no longer a danger to society and people can walk in the streets or relax in their homes more safely.

On the other hand, I consider that education has a complementary role to play. Firstly, in schools, students should study some aspects of the law which affect their lives. Having some knowledge of the law, students are better prepared to avoid situations which may involve them in crime or becoming a victim. For example, youngsters must study the important laws about driving and road safety. Secondly, in prisons themselves, educational programmes must aim to provide prisoners with skills and qualifications to find work when they are released.

I believe that prison sentences are one essential weapon in the fight against crime, and I disagree that providing better education alone is a more effective solution to reduce the crime rate.

Prison is the Common Way in Most Countries to Solve the Problem of Crime - Sample Answer 2

Incarceration of criminals has been the traditional system of keeping these deviants away from society. Although the circumstances of inmates are known to be harsh, steps are being taken to improve the nature of these individuals. There is an ongoing debate on whether genuine education can have a positive outcome on prisoners for quite some time now. I strongly believe this notion to be true and I will elaborate on my view in detail in the following paragraphs.

It is important to understand that misdeeds are mostly a consequence of necessities and not passion. That being said, even in adverse situations, a disciplined mind will practice restraint and caution. Thus, education of both the physical and mental being of a person is vital to achieving self-discipline. Although life can be unpredictable and unfortunate experiences can be detrimental to someone’s mentality, being educated helps in recognizing the difference between right and wrong, which has an overall positive effect on an individual’s lifestyle.

Nonetheless, such measures can be taken to improve the well-being of future generations at best. The segment of society that was not blessed with an era of such enlightened values is still vulnerable to criminality. Therefore, the correctional system has to be refined to make a significant elevation of the condition of convicts. This can be achieved by facilitating workshops and seminars for educating prisoners regularly and to ease their daily manner of living.

However, the fact also has to be acknowledged that some people are beyond aid and any attempt for their upliftment will go in vain. Even so, the authorities have to apply their best efforts in coaching these people to learn to lead a better way of life.

Finally, I believe that any single approach to solving this complication will be a waste. The efforts from authorities, concerned welfare organizations and social workers when working together in synergy, will bring about a substantial decline in crime.

Prison is the Common Way in Most Countries to Solve the Problem of Crime - Sample Answer 3

It is true that most countries use imprisonment as the main method to control crime. However, some people believe that improving education is a better way to prevent people from committing offences. I completely agree with this view because education can shape a person’s character and provide opportunities that reduce the chances of criminal behaviour.

Firstly, education plays a vital role in teaching moral values and social responsibilities. When people are educated, they understand the difference between right and wrong, and they are more likely to follow the law. For example, students who learn about civic duties and ethics at school tend to grow up as responsible citizens. In contrast, a lack of education often leads to ignorance and poor decision-making, which may push individuals toward unlawful activities.

Secondly, providing better education opens doors to employment and financial stability. Many crimes are committed out of poverty and unemployment. When people gain useful skills and knowledge, they can find decent jobs and support their families, which reduces the temptation to break the law. For instance, vocational training and adult education programmes have successfully helped former offenders reintegrate into society by giving them a second chance at life.

In contrast, while prisons may punish criminals, they often fail to change their behaviour permanently. Many prisoners return to crime after being released because they lack education and job skills. Therefore, focusing on education can address the root causes of crime rather than just its results.

In conclusion, although prisons are necessary for dangerous offenders, I strongly believe that providing better education is a more effective and lasting way to reduce crime. Education not only prevents people from committing crimes but also helps build a more responsible and law-abiding society.

Prison is the Common Way in Most Countries to Solve the Problem of Crime - IELTS Vocabulary

The following are some of the IELTS Vocabulary found in the "Prison is the Common Way in Most Countries to Solve the Problem of Crime - IELTS Writing Task 2."

• The crime rate

Meaning: a measure of the number of crimes in a particular area during a period of time
Example: As a result of more unemployment, the crime rate in the area is increasing.

• Distinctive

Meaning: having a quality that makes something different and easily noticed.
Example: My teacher has a distinctive approach to teaching English. Unlike the other teachers, she does not teach any grammar.

• Play an integral role in tackling crime

Meaning: play an essential part [along with other pads] in dealing with crime.
Example: Security cameras play an integral role in tackling crime in stores and other public places.

• Commits a crime

Meaning: does something wrong or illegal.
Example: In the UK, a youngster who commits a crime by stealing a car will almost certainly go to prison.

• Social isolation

Meaning: the slate of separating somebody
Example: Some form of social isolation is necessary for people who are violent or dangerous to others.

To sum up, this IELTS Writing Task 2 Opinion Essay examines both perspectives, how prisons and education can contribute to reducing crime. Read the 3 Band 9 sample answers with advanced vocabulary shared in this blog to learn how to express strong opinions effectively and achieve a Band 9 in your IELTS Writing Task 2.

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