IELTS HUB
Positive or negative CrimeGovernmentSociety Essay #559
Writing Task 2

You should spend about 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

More and more measures to improve the security in large urban areas have been introduced in many countries because of the increased crime.

Do the benefits of this outweigh the drawbacks?

Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.

Write at least 250 words.

Use the plan, then compare with Band 9.
247 words · 4 paragraphs
Introduction

Paraphrase topic. State the question whether benefits outweigh drawbacks.

In recent years, a surge in crime rates in metropolitan areas has prompted the implementation of stringent security measures in numerous nations. The question arises whether the advantages of such initiatives indeed eclipse the potential disadvantages.

Body 1 · View 1

Topic sentence for benefits. Discuss crime prevention (CCTV example) and improved feeling of safety (patrols, tech systems).

On the brighter side, these security measures undeniably act as a deterrent to criminal activities. For instance, the installation of surveillance cameras in public spaces can discourage potential criminals from engaging in unlawful acts due to the fear of being identified and apprehended. Moreover, these measures can significantly enhance the sense of safety among city dwellers. A well-secured environment, bolstered by regular police patrols and advanced security systems, can instill a sense of security in residents, thereby improving their overall quality of life.

Body 2 · View 2

Topic sentence for drawbacks. Discuss privacy violation (CCTV, 1984 comparison) and high cost/misuse of public funds (neglecting education/healthcare).

However, the flip side of the coin presents a more substantial argument. One major drawback is the infringement of personal privacy that these measures often entail. The omnipresence of surveillance cameras, for example, can lead to unwarranted intrusion into people's personal lives, creating a society reminiscent of George Orwell's dystopian novel "1984". Furthermore, the implementation of these measures often necessitates substantial public funding. The allocation of such funds towards security measures might result in the neglect of other crucial sectors such as education and healthcare, thereby potentially undermining the overall societal development.

Conclusion

Summarize main points (benefits vs drawbacks). State that drawbacks are more significant.

In conclusion, while the enhanced sense of safety and deterrence of crime are noteworthy benefits of increased security measures, the infringement of personal privacy and the potential misallocation of public resources make the drawbacks more significant.

Go further with the books

Writing Task 2

100 Essential IELTS Essays

Band 9 Sample Answers for the Real Exam

₹199$6.99CAD 8.99AUD 9.99£4.99NZD 10.99€5.99AED 24SGD 8.99

Free preview

Vocabulary

Band 9 Vocabulary for IELTS Essays

600 High-scoring Phrases for Task 2

₹299$9.99CAD 13.99AUD 14.99£7.99NZD 16.99€8.99AED 39SGD 12.99

Free preview

Kit · 3 books + 1 marked essay

Writing 7 Kit

The strategy to break the 6.5 ceiling, the mistakes that cost marks, the vocabulary that lifts Lexical Resource, then one essay marked to check you are there.

₹799$26.99CAD 37.99AUD 39.99£20.99NZD 45.99€23.99AED 99SGD 34.99 ₹1,296$43.96CAD 60.96AUD 65.96£33.96NZD 73.96€38.96AED 166SGD 56.96

Next question: There seems to be an increasing number of serious crimes committed each year. While some think the best way is to use the death penalty as a deterrent, many people believe that other measures will be needed. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.