IELTS Double Question Essay: Health Topics with Sample Answers

Model Answer

There is a widespread belief that money can buy anything including joy and pleasure. While financial resources can certainly provide access to pleasurable experiences, this assumption is not entirely accurate. In fact, many people living in less developed countries often report greater life satisfaction than those in wealthier nations, suggesting that happiness is not exclusively tied to material wealth.

Money undoubtedly plays a crucial role in emotional well-being, particularly in fulfilling fundamental needs such as food, shelter, and healthcare. In the absence of these essentials, achieving a sense of happiness becomes significantly more challenging. While emotional resilience and strong relationships matter, it is unrealistic to overlook the fact that financial security underpins most aspects of a stable life. Romanticizing poverty ignores the daily hardships faced by those without sufficient means, as true happiness is difficult to sustain when one is preoccupied with survival.

Beyond financial security, several non-material factors contribute to lasting happiness, such as a fulfilling career, good health, and nurturing relationships with family and friends, all elements that cannot be guaranteed solely through money. Without managing expectations and cultivating gratitude, even those with fame and wealth may struggle to find true fulfilment, leading to persistent dissatisfaction. This is evident in the tragic cases of wealthy and famous individuals, such as rock stars Kurt Cobain and Chris Cornell, whose immense fame and fortune did not shield them from depression, ultimately leading to their untimely deaths.

In conclusion, while money is essential for meeting our basic needs, it is not a guarantee of genuine happiness. True fulfillment often stems from emotional resilience, purposeful living, and meaningful human connections. In many cases, it is the intangible aspects of life and not the financial ones that bring the most lasting joy.

Model Answer

In recent years, an increasing number of individuals are choosing to delay parenthood until later in life. This shift has sparked significant debate, with some arguing that it is a result of changing societal values and career priorities, while others highlight the potential drawbacks of delayed parenthood. In my opinion, the disadvantages of postponing childbirth far outweigh the benefits.

One of the primary reasons people delay having children is the desire to focus on their careers and personal development. With longer educational paths and the growing need for professional advancement, many individuals, particularly women, feel that they must prioritize their jobs before starting a family. Delaying parenthood also allows people to attain financial stability, which can lead to a more secure environment for raising children. However, the downside is that fertility rates tend to decline as individuals age, particularly for women. This increases the risk of infertility and complications during pregnancy, which can be emotionally and physically challenging.

Despite these challenges, many argue that delayed parenthood offers advantages such as increased financial security and more mature, stable parenting. Yet, this trend can contribute to societal issues such as declining birth rates and a shrinking workforce, as seen in countries like Japan, where an aging population has placed immense pressure on the economy. The decline in family units can also lead to less intergenerational support, as fewer children are born to care for elderly parents.

In conclusion, while there are clear advantages to waiting to have children, such as career fulfillment and financial stability, the associated risks, including infertility and social challenges, outweigh the benefits. Societies must consider the broader implications of delayed parenthood, particularly in terms of long-term demographic and economic effects.