Some people believe that it is better to spend more money to eliminate the cause of the crime, while others think that the government should spend more on punishment.
Discuss both views and give your opinion.
📌 Note: This question appeared in the IELTS Writing exam on 24 May, 2025 in India.
2025 IELTS Writing Task 2 Questions – Click to View All
Band 9 Sample Answer:
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While some people are of the opinion that governments should invest more in eliminating the root causes of crime, others believe that a greater budget should be allocated to punishment. I side with the former view.
On the one hand, there can be some reasons why some people support the idea of spending more on punishment. Firstly, harsher penalties are often viewed as a deterrent. People who fear long prison sentences or heavy fines may think twice before committing a crime. In addition, investing in a stronger justice system ensures that offenders are punished fairly and consistently, which can improve public trust. For example, countries with strict sentencing laws are sometimes seen as having lower crime rates because of the perceived consequences. Lastly, focusing on punishment gives immediate results, as opposed to long-term social reforms, which can take years to show progress.
On the other hand, I feel that it is more beneficial to address the root causes of crime through preventive measures. Most criminal behaviour stems from poverty, lack of education, and unemployment. If governments invest in better schools, vocational training, mental health services, and community programs, they can reduce the likelihood of individuals turning to crime in the first place. For instance, Scandinavian countries that prioritise social welfare over punishment tend to have lower crime rates and higher rehabilitation success. Additionally, this approach promotes a more compassionate and just society, where people are supported rather than simply punished.
In conclusion, although some believe that more funding should be directed towards punishment to control crime, I believe that tackling its underlying causes is a more effective and humane solution in the long term.
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✅Band 9 Insights Based on IELTS Writing Criteria
1. Task Response
✔ Both views are clearly explained and balanced.
✔ The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and supported.
✔ Examples are logical and directly related to the argument.
Example: “Scandinavian countries that prioritise social welfare over punishment tend to have lower crime rates…”
2. Coherence and Cohesion
✔ Paragraphs follow the Discussion + Opinion structure exactly as shown in your PDF.
✔ Linking devices used naturally: On the one hand, In addition, For example, On the other hand, In conclusion.
✔ Smooth transitions between and within paragraphs.
3. Lexical Resource
✔ Wide range of topic-specific vocabulary: deterrent, justice system, underlying causes, rehabilitation, social reforms, preventive measures.
✔ Word choice is appropriate, precise, and consistent with a formal tone.
4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy
✔ Excellent control over complex sentence structures.
✔ No grammar or punctuation errors.
Example: “If governments invest in better schools, vocational training, mental health services… they can reduce the likelihood of individuals turning to crime.”
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