IELTS.international
Discussionacademic·2023

Some people believe that regular exercise and a healthy diet are the most important factors for maintaining good health. Others argue that genetics and access to healthcare are more significant. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Write **at least 250 words**. Spend ~40 minutes. This is a real IELTS exam-style question.

Write your response

Practice here, then get AI scoring on all 4 IELTS criteria

0 words (min 50)

Free — no signup required

Unlimited scoring from $14.99/mo

Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

For this discussion essay, dedicate one full body paragraph to exploring the arguments for regular exercise and a healthy diet, and another distinct paragraph to the significance of genetics and access to healthcare. This structured approach ensures both views are thoroughly addressed before you present your own nuanced opinion in the conclusion, preventing a one-sided argument.

2

When discussing lifestyle, consider mentioning the concept of 'Blue Zones' where populations exhibit exceptional longevity and health, often attributed to diet and physical activity. For genetics and healthcare, you could cite the impact of universal healthcare systems (e.g., in Scandinavian countries) on public health outcomes, or the role of genetic predispositions in conditions like certain cancers or autoimmune diseases.

3

The most common mistake is failing to directly *compare* the significance of these factors, instead merely describing each in isolation. To avoid this, ensure your discussion paragraphs and especially your conclusion use comparative language (e.g., "While lifestyle factors are crucial, their impact can be mitigated by...", "Conversely, without adequate healthcare...") to weigh which factors are *more* or *most* important.

4

Employ a clear transition strategy between your two main body paragraphs to signal the shift in perspective. Start the second body paragraph with a phrase like, "However, an alternative perspective posits that..." or "Conversely, others contend that..." This smoothly guides the reader through the opposing viewpoints.

5

Examiners look for a sophisticated understanding of the interplay between these complex factors, not just a simple choice of one over the other. A band 8-9 answer will demonstrate nuanced reasoning, acknowledging that all factors contribute, but then clearly articulate *why* one set might be considered *more* foundational or impactful in different contexts, supported by precise vocabulary and coherent arguments.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Show mastery by presenting both sides fairly and establishing your stance.

  • Demonstrate understanding of BOTH perspectives — this shows critical thinking
  • State which side you lean toward — even if you're discussing both equally
  • Maintain neutral, academic tone — avoid emotional language or bias

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

There are differing opinions on whether...While some people believe that..., others argue that...This essay will examine both perspectives before reaching a conclusion.
2
Body Paragraph 1 — First Viewpoint

Present one side with respect and credibility.

  • Even if you disagree, present this view authentically with real examples
  • Use academic reporting language: 'Research indicates...', 'Studies show...', 'Experts argue...'
  • Acknowledge strengths — this demonstrates balanced analysis and earns marks

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the one hand, supporters of this view argue that...Those in favour point out that...A key argument for this position is...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Opposing Viewpoint

Present the counter-argument with equal depth and sophistication.

  • Match the structure and depth of paragraph 1 — examiners compare them
  • Use contrasting transition words: 'Conversely', 'In contrast', 'On the other hand'
  • If you have an opinion, make this paragraph slightly stronger — but stay fair

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

On the other hand, critics contend that...However, there is a strong counter-argument...Conversely, many people feel that...
4
Conclusion

Synthesize both views and deliver your decisive judgment.

  • Acknowledge validity of both sides — this shows intellectual maturity
  • State your preference clearly and confidently — don't hedge or waffle
  • Take a firm position — examiners reward clarity over fence-sitting

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, while both sides have merit, I believe that...Having considered both arguments, it seems that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

sedentary lifestyleA lifestyle characterized by a lot of sitting and physical inactivity.
preventative healthcareMeasures taken to prevent diseases rather than curing them or treating their symptoms.
genetic predispositionAn increased likelihood of developing a particular disease due to the presence of specific genes.
it is widely acknowledged thatA phrase used to introduce a generally accepted fact or belief.
a compelling argument can be madeA phrase used to introduce a strong and convincing point.
this notion is predicated onThis idea is based on or depends on.
from my perspectiveA phrase used to introduce one's personal opinion or viewpoint.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsA phrase indicating that there is a vast amount of data supporting a particular conclusion.
notwithstandingIn spite of; despite.
it could be argued thatA hedging phrase used to introduce a possible but not necessarily definitive point or argument.

Step 4

Academic Phrases for This Essay Type

It is widely acknowledged thatThere is compelling evidence to suggestThis phenomenon can be attributed toA growing body of research indicatesThe implications of this are far-reachingThis raises important questions aboutFrom a broader perspectiveIt would be short-sighted to ignore

Addition

MoreoverFurthermoreIn additionWhat is more

Contrast

HoweverNeverthelessOn the other handConversely

Cause / Effect

ConsequentlyAs a resultThereforeThis leads to

Example

For instanceTo illustrateA case in point isSuch as

Concession

AlthoughWhile it is true thatDespiteAdmittedly

Step 5

Grammar Patterns for Band 7+

Complex sentence with concession

Although some argue that technology isolates people, the evidence suggests it strengthens connections.

Shows advanced grammatical control. Start with 'Although/While' + opposing view, then state your position — demonstrates nuanced thinking.

Conditional (Type 2)

If governments invested more in public transport, traffic congestion would decrease significantly.

Perfect for hypothetical scenarios and solutions. Structure: 'If + past simple, would + infinitive' — shows flexibility and imagination.

Passive for academic tone

It is often argued that education should be free. However, this view overlooks the practical challenges.

Academic writing favors passive constructions. 'It is + past participle + that' creates authoritative, objective tone.

Relative clause

Students who study abroad, which is becoming increasingly common, tend to develop greater independence.

Adds sophistication without complexity. Use 'who' for people, 'which' for things, 'that' for either.

Noun phrase for density

The rapid expansion of urban areas has led to increased pollution levels.

Packs more information into fewer words. 'The implementation of effective policies' vs 'policies are implemented effectively' — boosts Lexical Resource score.

Step 6

Band 9 Model Answer (Fully Marked)

Unlock full model answer + examiner comments with free sign-up.

View Full Model Answer — Sign Up Free

Practise Like the Real IELTS Exam

Download the official IELTS Writing answer sheet (PDF). Handwrite your essay under timed conditions — then upload for instant AI grading and band prediction.

Download Official IELTS Answer Sheet (PDF)

More IELTS Writing Task 2 Topics in This Category

Every Essay You Write Builds Real English Proficiency & Exam Confidence

Get detailed, criterion-by-criterion feedback. Track your progress across multiple essays. Master IELTS Writing Task 2 — not just for the test, but for life.

  • Scored on all 4 official IELTS Writing criteria
  • 100+ authentic IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts (2020–2024)
  • Personalized band score tracking & improvement analytics
Start IELTS Writing Practice — Free TodayNo signup required for your first IELTS Writing Task 2 evaluation