IELTS 8 Writing Model Essay (Free sample)
Test 4 Task 2 Question
Write about the following topic:
In some countries the average weight of people is increasing and their levels of health and fitness are decreasing.
What do you think are the causes of these problems and what measures could be taken to solve them?
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
Test 4 Task 2 Model Essay by an Expert Two
As our lives become more hectic and technology offers unprecedented convenience, obesity is a growing problem in many first-world countries. The solution is simple: people need to eat more healthily and exercise more. But this is easier said than done.
The development of technology, particularly transportation, means that people are doing much less exercise these days. For example, the prevalence of car ownership in developed countries means that people are far less likely to walk short distances. Even developments in household technology, such as washing machines, have meant that everyday activities no longer keep us fit.
A hectic lifestyle is also contributing to increasing cases of unfitness. When people are busy, they are more likely to reach for unhealthy convenience foods, such as processed ready-meals and fast food, which are often high in sugar, salt and fat. Over time, people lose the skills and enjoyment that has historically been involved in cooking healthy food from scratch.
Education is central to addressing these issues. Whilst everybody is aware that to lose weight, we must do more and eat less, education can go further to show how easy it can be to have a healthy lifestyle. For example, cooking lessons should be compulsory in schools, in order to instil enthusiasm for healthy food in the next generation. Similarly, PE lessons could focus on everyday ways to keep fit, rather than just prioritising excellence in certain sports, which might alienate those who are not interested in becoming a successful sportsperson.
In short, education has the potential to change cultural norms. Children should be educated to incorporate physical activity of some kind into their daily routines, and to enjoy cooking healthy food.
(278 words)
