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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people think certain prisoners should be made to do unpaid community work instead of being put behind bars. To what extent do you agree or disagree? 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 think certain prisoners should be made to do unpaid community work instead of being put behind bars. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether certain prisoners should be required to undertake unpaid community work as an alternative to imprisonment. This essay will argue that this approach can be a beneficial way to rehabilitate offenders and contribute positively to society.

Firstly, by engaging in unpaid community work, prisoners can develop a sense of responsibility and accountability, which are essential for their rehabilitation. For example, instead of being confined to a prison cell, offenders could be involved in activities such as cleaning public spaces, assisting in elderly care centers, or participating in environmental conservation projects. This not only helps them understand the impact of their actions on the community but also instills a sense of purpose, potentially reducing the likelihood of reoffending upon release.

Secondly, unpaid community work can provide a cost-effective solution for the criminal justice system. By reducing the number of individuals in prisons, the government can allocate resources to more critical areas, such as improving rehabilitation programs and supporting victims of crime. This approach also offers a chance for prisoners to make amends for their actions and contribute positively to society, thus promoting a sense of reintegration and reducing the burden on the correctional system.

In conclusion, while imprisonment remains a necessary option for serious offenses, there is merit in considering unpaid community work as an alternative for certain non-violent offenders. This approach not only benefits the prisoners by promoting their rehabilitation and reintegration but also serves as a cost-effective and productive measure for the society at large. Therefore, I believe that this approach should be seriously considered and implemented in the criminal justice system.

Model Essay #2:

Some people think certain prisoners should be made to do unpaid community work instead of being put behind bars. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

In the ongoing discourse surrounding the criminal justice system, the idea of assigning certain prisoners to unpaid community work instead of incarceration has generated significant discussion. However, this essay will argue against this approach, highlighting the potential drawbacks and limitations associated with it.

Firstly, the concept of unpaid community work as an alternative to imprisonment may not adequately address the severity of certain crimes. For instance, individuals convicted of serious offenses such as violent crimes or drug trafficking may not be suitably penalized by engaging in community work. This could potentially undermine the principle of justice and fail to provide a deterrent effect, especially in cases where the public safety is at stake.

Furthermore, the implementation of unpaid community work as a substitute for imprisonment raises concerns about the practicality and supervision of offenders. Unlike incarceration, community work may not always ensure the necessary level of control and oversight, leading to potential risks for the community and the offenders themselves. Without stringent monitoring and enforcement, there is a possibility of offenders not fulfilling their obligations or engaging in further criminal activities while participating in community work programs.

In conclusion, while the idea of unpaid community work as an alternative to imprisonment may seem appealing in certain contexts, it is crucial to recognize the potential limitations and risks associated with this approach. Serious consideration must be given to the type of offenses and the suitability of offenders for such programs. Ultimately, there is a need for a balanced and comprehensive approach to the criminal justice system, acknowledging the diverse nature of crimes and the importance of ensuring public safety and accountability.

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