IELTS HUBIELTS Discussion Essay on Health & Society & Government
Full IELTS Writing Task 2
You should spend about 40 minutes on this task.
Some people think that dangerous sports should be banned. Others, however, believe that people should be free to choose sports activities.
Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Write at least 250 words.
Introduction
Introduce the two opposing views on dangerous sports: banning them versus allowing freedom of choice. State the author's opinion supporting freedom of choice.
Body Paragraph 1 View 1
Discuss reasons for banning dangerous sports: high risk of serious injury or death (e.g., BASE jumping, athlete deaths) and the potential to encourage careless actions (e.g., street racing, accidents).
Body Paragraph 2 View 2
Discuss reasons for allowing freedom of choice in sports: builds personal development and resilience (e.g., mountain climbing, perseverance) and provides unique excitement and sense of achievement (e.g., skydiving).
Conclusion
Summarize the arguments from both sides (risks vs. personal growth/experience) and reiterate the author's opinion that freedom of choice is the stronger argument.
Band 9 Sample Answer:
In the world of sports, there are two main viewpoints: one group wants to ban dangerous sports, while the other believes in the right of people to choose their own sports. I agree with the second group, supporting the idea of personal freedom in choosing sports.
Those who want to ban risky sports have strong reasons. They mainly point out the high chance of serious injuries or even death, as seen in extreme sports like BASE jumping, where people jump from high places with only a parachute for safety. This argument is strengthened by the sad deaths of many athletes in these sports, highlighting the dangers. They also argue that these sports can encourage careless actions, like street racing, which can put not only the racers but also innocent people at risk. This is backed up by the many accidents reported every year, caused by such irresponsible behavior.
However, despite these points, I strongly believe that people should have the freedom to choose their sports. One key reason is the personal development and resilience that these sports can build. For example, mountain climbing, despite its risks, can develop traits like perseverance and determination, as climbers overcome tough terrains and severe weather. Also, dangerous sports often give a special excitement and sense of achievement that regular sports may not provide. This is shown in skydiving, where the thrilling free fall and the amazing view from thousands of feet high can be a transformative experience for many.
In conclusion, while there are good reasons for banning dangerous sports due to the risks and potential for reckless behavior they encourage, the benefits of personal growth and unique experiences make the argument for freedom of choice in sports stronger.
Band 7 Sample Answer:
In the realm of sports, a dichotomy of views exists: one faction advocates for the prohibition of dangerous sports, while the other upholds the freedom of individuals to choose their preferred sports activities. I align myself with the latter perspective, endorsing personal liberty in sports selection.
Those who argue for the banning of hazardous sports do so with compelling reasons. Primarily, they emphasize the high risk of severe injuries or even death, as seen in extreme sports like BASE jumping, where participants leap from great heights with only a parachute for safety. This argument gains further credence when considering the tragic demise of numerous athletes in such sports, underscoring the inherent dangers. Additionally, they contend that these sports often encourage reckless behavior, as demonstrated by street racing, which not only endangers the participants but also innocent bystanders. This point is substantiated by the numerous accidents reported annually, resulting from such irresponsible actions.
Despite the aforementioned arguments, I stand firm in my belief that individuals should retain the autonomy to select their sports activities. One of the main reasons is the personal growth and resilience that these sports can foster. For instance, mountaineering, despite its risks, can cultivate qualities such as perseverance and determination, as climbers conquer challenging terrains and harsh weather conditions. Furthermore, dangerous sports often provide a unique thrill and sense of accomplishment that conventional sports may not offer. This is exemplified by skydiving, where the exhilarating free fall and the breathtaking view from thousands of feet above ground can be a life-changing experience for many.
In conclusion, while there are valid arguments for banning dangerous sports due to the risks and potential recklessness they promote, the benefits of personal growth and unique experiences make the case for freedom of choice in sports more compelling.