Health in IELTS Writing Task 2: Problem and Solution Samples

In the Academic IELTS Writing section, health-related essay topics often focus on public health issues and lifestyle choices. Common subtopics may include: the impact of diet and exercise on health, the role of government in healthcare, mental health awareness, the effects of smoking and alcohol consumption, the challenges of an aging population, and the benefits of preventive healthcare measures.

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Essay Topics

Topic 1: Children spending less time with working parents – problems and solutions?
Topic 2: Lack of exercise among working people – causes and remedies?

Task 1

Children these days spend a lot of time apart from their parents because in many homes, both parents work. What problems can be caused by this? What are some ways to support such children?

How to approach the essay:

How to Approach the Essay:

Introduction:

Briefly introduce the issue of children spending time apart from parents due to both working.
Mention the negative impacts this can have on children’s well-being.

Problems	Solutions
• Unsupervised children fall into bad company, risking substance abuse and delinquency • Lack of emotional support leads to frustration and aggressive behavior • Increased time away from parents weakens family bonds and supervision	• Government-funded after-school programs (sports, music, coding) to engage children constructively • Employers implement flexible hours and limit overtime so parents can spend more time with kids

Conclusion:

Summarize the importance of implementing these solutions to support children.

Model Answer

In contemporary society, the growing trend of dual-income households has resulted in children spending more time away from their parents. This social phenomenon can have negative effects on their emotional and behavioural development. While this issue is indeed serious, it can be effectively addressed through a variety of measures.

When both parents are away for long hours, children often fall into bad company, which can lead to substance abuse and even delinquent behaviour. For example, without proper supervision, they may be influenced by peers who introduce them to drugs or unlawful activities, as seen in many urban environments. Another issue is that the lack of emotional support can cause children to become increasingly frustrated, leading to aggressive behaviours. In some cases, they may even physically lash out at their parents or siblings, acting out in an attempt to express their unmet emotional needs, as they crave love and attention.

However, both governmental and individual initiatives can play a role in alleviating these problems. Firstly, the government should introduce after-school programs in schools, such as sports leagues, music classes, or coding workshops, to help children channel their energy into constructive outlets. These activities would not only provide opportunities for socialization but also encourage teamwork, creativity, and skill development. On an individual level, companies could adopt policies that limit overtime and offer flexible working hours, allowing parents to spend more quality time with their children.

In conclusion, it is indisputable that modern families are grappling with the challenges posed by this issue. However, I firmly believe that with the implementation of appropriate solutions, it is possible to address these concerns in various effective ways.

Commentary

Essay Question:
Children these days spend a lot of time apart from their parents because in many homes, both parents work. What problems can be caused by this? What are some ways to support such children?

Introduction

Clarity: The topic is clearly introduced, mentioning dual-income households and the potential negative effects on children’s emotional and behavioral development.
Thesis: The writer acknowledges the seriousness of the issue but suggests that it can be effectively addressed through various solutions.

Body Paragraphs
Main Ideas (Problems):

Children may fall into bad company, leading to substance abuse and criminal behaviour due to a lack of supervision.
Emotional neglect can lead to frustration, aggression, and physical outbursts, as children seek attention and love.

Coherence: The paragraph logically covers the two main problems with examples and clear explanations. Transitions are smooth.

Main Ideas (Solutions):

Governmental solutions: After-school programs (e.g., sports, music, coding) to help children socialize and develop skills.
Individual solutions: Companies offering flexible work hours or limiting overtime, allowing parents to spend more time with children.

Coherence: The solutions are practical, well-organized, and directly address the problems raised in the first paragraph.

Conclusion

Summary: The conclusion restates the importance of addressing the issue, offering practical solutions, and reinforcing the potential effectiveness of those measures.
Reflection: The writer effectively restates their opinion, but the conclusion could be more engaging.

Vocabulary & Grammar

High-Level Vocabulary:

“Phenomenon” (an observable occurrence)
“Delinquent” (young person engaging in criminal behaviour)
“Frustrated” (feeling upset or angry)
“Aggression” (hostile behaviour)
“Alleviating” (reducing)
“Constructive” (helpful, productive)

Academic Phrases:

“In contemporary society”
“This social phenomenon”
“While this issue is indeed serious”
“It is indisputable that”

Complex Sentences:

“When both parents are away for long hours, children often fall into bad company, which can lead to substance abuse and even delinquent behaviour.”
“However, both governmental and individual initiatives can play a role in alleviating these problems.”

Task 2

Many working people get little or no exercise either during the working day or in their free time, and have health problems as a result. Why do many working people not get enough exercise? What can be done about this problem?

How to approach the essay:

How to approach the essay:

Introduction: Briefly introduce the issue of lack of exercise among working people and its health consequences.

Problems	Solutions
• Long work hours and family duties leave little exercise time • Parents feel too exhausted after job and household obligations • Weekends consumed by children’s activities, limiting personal fitness	• Prioritize health by scheduling specific exercise time slots • Begin with weekly sessions, then increase to daily routines • Choose simple, family-friendly exercises like walking to boost motivation

Conclusion: Highlight the importance of prioritizing exercise for health and well-being.

Model Answer

Physical activity is crucial for maintaining optimal health and well-being. However, many working individuals struggle to incorporate exercise into their daily routines, which can lead to various health issues. This essay will explore the reasons behind the lack of exercise among working people and propose potential solutions to address this pressing concern.

The demanding nature of modern work life often leaves little time for physical activity. Many employees juggle multiple responsibilities, including family obligations, which further complicates their ability to engage in regular exercise. For instance, a working mother who spends eight hours at her job may return home to prepare dinner, help her children with schoolwork, and spend time with her family. As a result, after fulfilling these obligations, she may feel too exhausted to exercise. Additionally, weekends may be filled with her children’s extracurricular activities, leaving her with scant opportunities for personal fitness.

A practical solution to this issue is effective time management. Individuals must prioritize their physical health by allocating specific time slots for exercise, as neglecting this aspect can lead to serious health complications, such as obesity and cardiovascular diseases. Incorporating physical activity into schedules—starting with weekly sessions and eventually transitioning to daily routines—can significantly enhance their fitness levels. Walking, for example, is a simple, cost-effective, and accessible form of exercise that families can enjoy together, thereby fostering motivation and accountability.

In conclusion, it is clear that regular exercise is vital for good health. By consciously prioritizing physical activity, even amid a busy life, individuals can achieve a healthier, more balanced lifestyle. Exercise not only strengthens the body but also boosts mental and emotional well-being.

Essay Question:

Introduction

Clarity: The topic is clearly introduced, addressing the issue of working people not getting enough exercise.
Thesis: The writer clearly states the focus: reasons behind the lack of exercise and possible solutions.

Body Paragraphs

Main Ideas (Reasons):

Work-life demands leave little time for exercise.
Family responsibilities further complicate physical activity. Example: a working mother’s exhaustion after daily duties.

Main Ideas (Solutions):

Time management as a solution: allocating specific time slots for exercise.
Gradual integration of physical activity into routines. Example: walking with family.
Coherence: The ideas are logically organized. The essay flows well from problem to solution, using clear transitions.

Conclusion

Summary: Effectively restates the importance of exercise for health and emphasizes the need to prioritize it despite busy schedules.

Vocabulary & Grammar

High-Level Vocabulary:

Optimal (ideal, best),
Juggle (balance, manage),
Obligations (responsibilities),
Complications (difficulties),
Neglecting (ignoring),
Complications (issues, problems).

Academic Phrases:

“It is clear that,”
“This essay will explore,”
“A practical solution to this issue,”
“In conclusion.”

Complex Sentences:

“The demanding nature of modern work life often leaves little time for physical activity.”
“Incorporating physical activity into schedules—starting with weekly sessions and eventually transitioning to daily routines—can significantly enhance their fitness levels.”