Preparing for the IELTS Writing Task 2 can be daunting, especially when tackling complex topics like crime. Many test-takers struggle to structure arguments, use appropriate vocabulary, or maintain coherence under time pressure. This sample essay and analysis will break down effective techniques to help you craft a high-scoring response.

Understanding the Crime Topic in IELTS

Crime-related prompts often appear in IELTS Writing Task 2, covering issues like juvenile delinquency, cybercrime, rehabilitation vs. punishment, or the role of government in reducing crime. These topics require a balanced discussion, clear examples, and precise language to meet Band 7+ criteria.

Sample Question:
"Some people believe that longer prison sentences reduce crime, while others argue that alternative methods like education and community service are more effective. Discuss both views and give your opinion."

High-Scoring Essay Structure

A well-organized essay follows this framework:

1. Introduction (2-3 sentences)

   • Paraphrase the question.
   • State your position (if required).

   Example:
   "There is debate over whether harsh prison terms or rehabilitative approaches better deter criminal activity. While incarceration may seem effective, I believe education and community programs address root causes more successfully."

   

2. Body Paragraph 1: Viewpoint 1

   • Topic sentence: Introduce the first perspective.
   • Explanation: Why do some support this view?
   • Example: Statistics or real-world cases (e.g., "Countries like Singapore with strict penalties report lower theft rates").

3. Body Paragraph 2: Viewpoint 2

   • Topic sentence: Present the opposing argument.
   • Explanation: Benefits of alternatives (e.g., "Education reduces recidivism by 43% according to a 2020 OECD study").
   • Example: Norway’s focus on rehabilitation over punishment.

4. Conclusion (2 sentences)

   • Restate your stance succinctly.
   • Avoid new ideas.

   Example:
   "Although prison sentences may offer short-term solutions, investing in education and community service creates lasting societal change. Governments should prioritize rehabilitation to break cycles of crime."

Critical Writing Techniques

Lexical Resource (Vocabulary)
Avoid repetition by using synonyms:

• Prison: incarceration, penitentiary, correctional facility
• Crime: offense, illegal act, wrongdoing
• Reduce: curb, mitigate, diminish

Grammar & Cohesion

• Use complex sentences: "While strict penalties may deter some offenders, they fail to address poverty-driven crime."
• Link ideas with transitions: Conversely, In contrast, Consequently

Task Achievement

• Address all parts of the question.
• Stay objective in "discuss both views" tasks before giving your opinion.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

1. Overgeneralizing

   • Weak: "All criminals are dangerous."
   • Strong: "Violent offenders often pose higher risks than non-violent ones."

2. Ignoring Examples
   Examiners value specific references. Compare:

   • Vague: "Some countries have lower crime."
   • Detailed: "Japan’s emphasis on social cohesion correlates with a 70% drop in youth crime since 2000."

3. Informal Language
   Avoid contractions (can’t → cannot) and slang.

   

Practice Prompts

1. "Increasing police budgets is the best way to reduce crime. To what extent do you agree?"
2. "Should criminals receive the same treatment regardless of age? Discuss."

Scoring well in IELTS Writing demands practice, but mastering structure, vocabulary, and critical thinking will elevate your essays. Focus on clarity over complexity, and always proofread for errors.

A final tip: Time yourself. Spend 5 minutes planning, 30 minutes writing, and 5 minutes reviewing. Consistency beats last-minute perfection.