IELTS.international
Opinionacademic·2024

The rise of sedentary lifestyles due to desk jobs and technology has led to increased health problems. What measures can individuals and governments take to address this issue?

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Step 1

IELTS Examiner Tips for This Topic

1

In your introduction, clearly state that addressing sedentary lifestyles requires a dual approach, with both individual commitment and governmental intervention being indispensable. While it's important to acknowledge the role of personal choice, your essay should consistently argue that governmental policies provide the necessary framework and incentives for sustainable societal change, thus maintaining a nuanced yet firm position.

2

For individual measures, consider specific actions like integrating 'micro-breaks' every hour, utilising standing desks, or prioritising active commuting such as cycling or walking. For governmental actions, you could cite examples like Copenhagen's successful urban planning for cyclists, Singapore's 'National Steps Challenge' encouraging activity, or policies that incentivise companies to offer workplace wellness programs and ergonomic setups.

3

A common pitfall is merely listing potential measures without adequately explaining their direct impact on sedentary behaviour or differentiating clearly between individual and governmental spheres. To avoid this, dedicate distinct paragraphs to each category of action, ensuring that for every proposed measure, you explicitly articulate *how* it tackles the root causes of inactivity and contributes to improved public health outcomes.

4

To effectively transition between discussing individual and governmental measures, employ phrases that highlight their interconnectedness and distinct contributions. For instance, after detailing individual efforts, you might transition with 'While personal accountability is paramount, these efforts are significantly bolstered by...' or 'Concurrently, governments bear a substantial responsibility to create an enabling environment...'. This demonstrates a sophisticated understanding of the multifaceted nature of the problem.

5

For a band 8-9, examiners will look for a nuanced understanding of the interplay between individual agency and governmental policy, avoiding simplistic solutions. Your essay should present well-developed arguments for both categories, supported by specific, real-world examples, and demonstrate a sophisticated grasp of public health terminology. Crucially, it must maintain a consistent and well-defended position on *how* these measures collectively address the issue, showcasing logical progression and coherence.

Step 2

Recommended Essay Structure (Band 7+ Standard)

1
Introduction

Hook the examiner and establish your position immediately.

  • Rephrase the question using powerful synonyms — avoid copying words
  • State your opinion clearly in the final sentence — leave no doubt
  • Keep it tight: 2-3 sentences max. Every word must earn its place.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

It is often argued that...There is a growing debate about whether...In my view, ... because ...
2
Body Paragraph 1 — Your Strongest Argument

Make your most compelling case with undeniable evidence.

  • Start with a powerful topic sentence — state your argument boldly
  • Support with concrete evidence: statistics, real-world cases, or expert research
  • Explain exactly HOW your evidence proves your point — connect the dots for the examiner

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

The primary reason I hold this view is that...This is clearly illustrated by...For instance, in many countries...
3
Body Paragraph 2 — Supporting Argument

Strengthen your position with a complementary perspective.

  • Choose a different angle — if paragraph 1 was economic, try social, environmental, or ethical
  • Use fresh evidence — avoid repeating the same examples or reasoning
  • Explicitly link back to your thesis — show how this strengthens your overall position

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

Furthermore, it is worth considering that...Another compelling argument is that...This is further supported by the fact that...
4
Conclusion

Leave a lasting impression with a confident, memorable ending.

  • Never introduce new ideas — this is your final summary
  • Restate your position using stronger vocabulary than the introduction
  • Keep it powerful: 2 sentences max. End with authority.

Band 7+ sentence starters for each paragraph

In conclusion, I firmly believe that...To sum up, the evidence clearly suggests that...

Step 3

High-Scoring Vocabulary & Collocations

sedentary lifestyleA way of life that involves little or no physical activity.
public health initiativesPrograms or campaigns organised by governmental or non-governmental bodies to improve community well-being.
ergonomic workstationsWork environments designed to maximise productivity by reducing discomfort and injury.
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 persuasive point.
this notion is predicated onThis idea is based on or depends on a particular principle or assumption.
from my perspectiveA phrase used to introduce one's personal viewpoint or opinion.
the evidence overwhelmingly suggestsA phrase used to indicate that there is a great deal of data supporting a particular conclusion.
notwithstandingIn spite of; despite.
this is not to say thatA phrase used to clarify a previous statement by indicating what is *not* implied.

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)

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