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IELTS Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.

Some people think that the main influence on young people's diet is advertising rather than family and friends. 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 that the main influence on young people's diet is advertising rather than family and friends. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some people argue that advertising has a greater impact on the eating habits of young individuals than the influence of their family and friends. In my opinion, I partly agree with this viewpoint, as both advertising and the people close to us play significant roles in shaping the dietary choices of young people.

Firstly, it is undeniable that advertising has a substantial influence on the diet of young individuals. With the rise of social media and digital platforms, young people are constantly bombarded with advertisements promoting unhealthy food choices. These advertisements often use attractive visuals and persuasive messages, which can easily sway the dietary preferences of impressionable youths. For instance, fast-food chains often use catchy jingles and appealing visuals to entice young consumers to indulge in their products, leading to a preference for unhealthy fast food options.

However, it is important to acknowledge the influential role that family and friends play in shaping the dietary habits of young people. Research has shown that family eating habits and mealtime routines have a profound impact on the food choices of children and adolescents. For example, when parents and siblings consistently model healthy eating habits and prioritize nutritious meals, young individuals are more likely to adopt similar dietary patterns. Likewise, peer influence among friends also plays a significant role, as young people often emulate the eating habits of their social circle to fit in and gain acceptance.

In conclusion, while advertising undoubtedly exerts a powerful influence on the dietary choices of young individuals, the impact of family and friends should not be underestimated. Both factors play crucial roles in shaping the eating habits of young people, and it is essential to consider a holistic approach when addressing this issue. By promoting healthy eating habits at both the societal and interpersonal levels, we can empower young individuals to make informed and nutritious dietary choices.

Model Essay #2:

Some people think that the main influence on young people's diet is advertising rather than family and friends. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

Some individuals hold the belief that advertising has a stronger impact on the eating behaviors of young people compared to the influence of their family and friends. In contrast, I firmly disagree with this assertion, as I believe that the dietary choices of young individuals are predominantly shaped by the influence of their family and friends, rather than advertising.

To begin with, it is evident that family and friends play a crucial role in shaping the eating habits of young individuals. From a young age, children are heavily influenced by the dietary choices and mealtime behaviors of their family members. For instance, when parents prioritize nutritious and balanced meals, children are more likely to adopt similar dietary preferences and develop healthy eating habits. Additionally, the influence of peer groups and friends cannot be overlooked, as young people often emulate the eating behaviors of their social circle to fit in and seek approval.

On the other hand, while advertising does have a presence in the lives of young individuals, its impact on dietary choices should not be overstated. Although advertisements for unhealthy food products are widespread, the influence of these advertisements is limited when compared to the consistent and direct influence of family and friends. Research has shown that the opinions and behaviors of family members and close friends hold greater weight in shaping the dietary preferences of young people.

In conclusion, the influence of family and friends on the dietary choices of young individuals far outweighs the impact of advertising. By fostering a supportive and healthy eating environment within families and social circles, we can positively influence the dietary habits of young individuals and empower them to make informed and nutritious choices. Therefore, it is essential to recognize the pivotal role of interpersonal relationships in shaping the dietary behaviors of young people.

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