Do Prisons Work? IELTS Writing Task 2

Do Prisons Work? IELTS Writing Task 2 is a topic of the IELTS writing section. The given IELTS topic is named Do Prisons Work? IELTS Writing Task 2, has three model answers below written from different perspectives. The topic is an opinion-oriented type, talking about the value of prisons. The IELTS Writing Task 2 topic is an opinion-based type, the candidates should present their opinions and views.

The test-taker's point of view is supported in the body by giving opinion comments and tentative solutions. The candidates’ ability to put forward their knowledge of various topics like this and their views regarding those topics has been improved by the IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on band scores, the IELTS writing score is calculated. The band scores range from 0 to 9. The candidates can practice from the IELTS Writing practice papers. Similar topics like Do Prisons Work? IELTS Writing Task 2 is provided in the practice papers.

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Topic: Do Prisons Work?
You should spend 40 minutes on this task. Write about the following topic:

In many places, prisons are overcrowded and expensive for governments to maintain. Yet, when offenders are released, they end up back in prison a short while later. Do prisons work? Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant example from your own knowledge or experience. Write at least 250 words.

Band 7 IELTS Essay

Rehabilitation aims to address the root causes that lead people to crime while punishing bad actions so that individuals can learn and become productive members of society once more. Prison alone does little to curb repeat offenses. While removing criminals from communities maintains order short-term, long-term incarceration can remove people from jobs and family support systems - factors shown to reduce re-offending. Without rehabilitation, prisoners may struggle to reintegrate post-release due to lost skills and social bonds.

Rehabilitation programs, on the other hand, focus on equipping people with skills, education, and treatment for underlying issues like addiction. Vocational training and online learning behind bars can make ex-convicts employable upon freedom. By addressing causes rather than solely punishment, rehabilitation may help prevent future crimes born of desperation or lack of alternatives.

Ongoing rehabilitation also helps sustain the progress made during incarceration. This likely contributes to even lower recidivism rates long-term. People are better equipped to maintain positive changes with treatment and support extending past release. Continued rehabilitation acknowledges that, with the right support, every person has the worth and potential to reform. This approach views individuals holistically, as well as considers impacts on society.

However, combining shorter sentences with rehabilitation support may reform individuals and protect communities at a lower financial cost than imprisonment alone. With job prospects and a support system, reformed ex-prisoners can become productive citizens once more. Overall, this dual system holds the best hope of justice and public safety through reduced recidivism rates long-term.

Band 7.5 IELTS Essay

Prisons are commonly relied upon by many countries as the primary means of punishing criminal behavior. While imprisonment aims to both punish wrongdoers and support rehabilitation, in reality, it often fails on both fronts. In my view, some of the limitations of relying solely on incarceration and proposing alternative approaches that may better achieve the goals of the criminal justice system.

It is undeniable that prisons play an important role in protecting society by removing dangerous individuals from public spaces. However, conditions inside many overcrowded facilities do little to reform inmates and prepare them for life after being released. With few educational or vocational programs available, prisoners are no better equipped to stay out of trouble than when they entered. Furthermore, having a criminal record creates nearly insurmountable barriers to securing stable employment or housing, both of which are known to influence rates of reoffending. As a result, more than half of former inmates return to prison within three years for new offenses.

Rather than imprisonment alone, a multi-faceted strategy is needed that addresses both punishment and rehabilitation. Strict probation and close monitoring after release would also aid in reintegration into society. For more serious crimes, shorter prison terms coupled with job placement assistance post-release may have greater success at reducing recidivism than the current system.

In conclusion, a reformed approach integrating multiple interventions has greater potential to balance public safety needs with supporting inmate rehabilitation and lowering long-term reoffending rates. No single solution will suffice, requiring policy changes and increased funding across social and legal sectors.

Band 8 IELTS Essay

It is commonly believed that imprisonment is the most appropriate punishment for criminal acts. However, there is growing debate around the effectiveness of incarceration, especially for minor offenses. One of the main issues with prisons is that they often fail to achieve rehabilitation for many categories of offenders. The prison environment exposes them to more serious recidivists and takes them away from positive influences in the community. As a result, they are more likely to reoffend once released.

Additionally, prisons are extremely costly for governments and taxpayers. Vast sums are spent on housing, feeding, and guarding inmates, both low-risk and high-risk. This money could be better allocated to crime prevention programs. Non Custodial punishments have the advantage of allowing offenders to continue working and supporting their families financially.

Of course, for serious crimes involving violence, dangerous weapons, or that threaten public safety, imprisonment may indeed be the only suitable response. However, a 'one size fits all' approach fails to consider the gravity of the offense on a case-by-case basis. A more nuanced system taking into account the specifics of the criminal and their actions could help match the appropriate consequences of crimes. This would help address the ineffectiveness and high costs associated with an overreliance on incarceration, especially for petty offenses.

In conclusion, while prisons play an important role in public protection, alternative sanctions should be given more consideration, especially for non-violent and minor crimes. A balanced, tailored approach is needed that imposes penalties proportional to the severity of the lawbreaking.

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