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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion. Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

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🤩 Sample answers

Model Essay #1:

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.

In many societies, there is an ongoing debate about the appropriate approach to determining punishments for crimes. Some people advocate for fixed punishments for each type of crime, while others argue that the circumstances of an individual crime and the motivation behind it should be considered when deciding on the punishment. In this essay, I will discuss both perspectives and provide my own opinion.

Advocates of fixed punishments argue that they provide a clear and consistent framework for dealing with crime. They believe that this approach ensures that criminals are held accountable for their actions and that justice is served uniformly. For example, in some countries, there are mandatory minimum sentences for certain offenses, such as drug trafficking, to deter potential offenders and maintain law and order.

On the other hand, proponents of considering the individual circumstances of a crime argue that this approach allows for a more just and humane legal system. They believe that punishments should be tailored to fit the specific details of each case, taking into account factors such as the offender's background, mental state, and the impact of the crime on the victim. For instance, in cases of theft, a person who stole out of desperation to feed their family may be viewed differently from someone who stole for personal gain.

In my opinion, while fixed punishments provide a sense of consistency and deterrence, it is essential to consider the unique circumstances of each crime. By doing so, the legal system can ensure that punishments are fair and proportional, taking into account the complexities of human behavior and motivation.

In conclusion, while there are merits to both approaches, I believe that a balanced approach that considers both fixed punishments and individual circumstances is crucial for a just legal system. This can help ensure that justice is served while also acknowledging the complexities of human behavior and motivations.

Model Essay #2:

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should always be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.

The debate surrounding the appropriate method for determining punishments for crimes has long been a topic of contention. While some argue for fixed punishments for each type of crime, others advocate for taking into account the specific circumstances of an individual crime and the motive behind it. In this essay, I will explore both perspectives and present my own viewpoint.

Supporters of fixed punishments assert that they create a sense of predictability and consistency within the legal system. They argue that having predetermined penalties for different crimes serves as a deterrent and sends a clear message about the consequences of unlawful behavior. For example, in many countries, there are strict sentencing guidelines for offenses such as assault and burglary to maintain law and order.

On the contrary, proponents of considering individual circumstances argue that each crime is unique and should be evaluated on a case-by-case basis. They believe that taking into account factors such as the offender's background, mental state, and the impact of the crime on the victim allows for a more just and compassionate approach to sentencing. For instance, in cases of assault, the circumstances surrounding the altercation and the intent of the offender can greatly influence the appropriate punishment.

In my view, while considering individual circumstances may provide insights into the motives behind a crime, fixed punishments are crucial for maintaining a sense of fairness and justice within the legal system. Having clear and consistent penalties for crimes ensures that individuals are held accountable for their actions, regardless of their personal circumstances.

In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for both perspectives, I firmly believe that fixed punishments for crimes are essential for upholding the principles of fairness and justice. By establishing clear consequences for unlawful behavior, the legal system can effectively deter crime and maintain societal order.

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