IELTS Writing Task

Sample Answer

Band 7+ 

34. 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 punishment.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

  Sample Answer 1

         Whether punishments for crimes should be fixed or should take individual circumstances and motivations into account is a subject of ongoing debate. Others stress the importance of considering the context and motivations behind criminal acts, while some argue for fixed punishments for each category of crime. A balanced approach that incorporates both elements is required for an equitable and effective justice system, in my opinion.

        Fixed punishments, according to proponents, provide clarity, consistency, and deterrence. By establishing clear guidelines for punishments, the legal system ensures that similar offences receive equivalent punishments, regardless of the specifics of each case. In the minds of the law, this promotes justice and equality. In addition, the certainty of punishment serves as a deterrent, discouraging potential offenders from engaging in criminal behaviour.

                     On the other hand, proponents of individual circumstances believe that each case's punishment should be tailored to its particular circumstances. They contend that a one-size-fits-all approach fails to address the causes and motivations underlying illicit behaviour. To ensure a just and proportionate response, factors such as the offender's background, intent, and criminal history should be considered. This approach allows for the prospect of rehabilitation and reintegration into society, especially for offenders who demonstrate genuine remorse or who committed crimes due to mitigating circumstances.

           A balanced approach is essential, in my opinion. While fixed penalties provide clarity and consistency, it is essential to take into account the unique circumstances and motivations behind each offence. This can be accomplished through the discretion of judges, who have the knowledge and experience to evaluate relevant factors and determine appropriate punishments. In addition, rehabilitation programmes and community service can be incorporated into the justice system to address the underlying causes of criminal behaviour.

      In conclusion, a balanced approach is required to address the issue of fixed punishments versus individual circumstances in the justice system. While fixed punishments promote equity and deterrence, the context and motives behind crimes must also be considered to ensure proportionate responses and the possibility of rehabilitation.

Important phrases and vocabulary:

·         Fixed punishments: predetermined penalties for specific crimes

·         Individual circumstances: unique factors related to each case

·         Context: the situation or background surrounding a particular event

·         Motivations: the reasons or driving forces behind actions

·         Clarity: clearness and transparency

·         Consistency: uniformity and fairness in treatment

·         Deterrence: the discouragement or prevention of criminal behavior

·         Tailored: customized or adjusted to fit a specific situation

·         Proportionate: appropriate and fitting in relation to the severity of the crime

·         Rehabilitation: the process of restoring an offender to a law-abiding life

·         Mitigating circumstances: factors that reduce the severity of a crime

·         Discretion: the freedom to make judgments or decisions based on individual cases

34. 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 punishment.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

  Sample Answer 2

      Band 7

                       A nation's growth and development are inextricably linked to the effectiveness of its criminal justice system. Indeed, crime has risen to become one of the most contentious topics on the globe. It is debatable whether or not specific penalties for certain types of crimes are necessary, since there are compelling arguments on both sides of the issue.

                   Without a doubt, the different penalties for each offence offer several advantages. One significant advantage is that youngsters are fearful of committing a crime as a result of their knowledge of the many ramifications of doing so. They are well aware of their obligations and tasks, which are unquestionably essential for the overall growth of a country's infrastructure. As a second benefit, it may aid in the resolution of social conflicts. For example, some individuals commit crimes like robbery or theft, and various penalties may be beneficial to the preservation of a nation's peace and harmony.

                  Regardless of its advantages, a slew of penalties comes with a lot of disadvantages. True, when new laws and regulations are established, attorneys and judges must get familiar with a wide variety of ideas and points of view, which may be very challenging. The stress associated with learning new processes is reduced when individuals are subjected to a set penalty, resulting in a greater level of interest in their profession.

                 To conclude, I think that creating various penalties for different types of offences is one of the most efficient methods to promote social growth in a society. The consequence has been an increase in the popularity of particular penalties for certain kinds of crimes.

267 Words

34. 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 punishment.

Discuss both views and give your opinion.

  Sample Answer 3

      Band 6.5 

                    There is no doubting the fact that the need for criminal punishment is paramount for the growth and development of a nation. Crime has indeed become one of the controversial issues around the world. The need for fixed punishments for each type of crime is controversial, as there are strong arguments for and against it.

                          It is evident that the different punishments allocated to each offence include several beneficial elements that should be considered. The fact that they are fearful of getting detained because they are aware of the terrible consequences that await them is another beneficial side effect. It is essential for a country's overall development that its citizens be aware of their duties and responsibilities. Another advantage is that it may aid in the reduction of disputes in society since some people commit bad actions, such as robbery or theft, and punishment systems may result in the nation's harmony and peace, as opposed to the opposite.

               Despite the advantages, there are numerous drawbacks to different punishments. True, when new rules and regulations are enacted, lawyers and judges must learn a variety of suggestions and opinions, which is extremely difficult. When fixed punishment is imposed on people, they become more curious about their job because they have no burden of studying new procedures.

                  To summarize, I believe that having multiple punishments for different crimes is one of the best ways to develop a society. As a result, different punishments for different types of crimes are now more popular than ever.

251 Words