Model Answer - Ielts Writing (Task 2)

Some people believe that there should be fixed punishments for each type of crime. Others, however, argue that the circumstances of an individual crime, and the motivation for committing it, should also be taken into account when deciding on the punishment.

Discuss both these views and give your opinion.

There are various types of crimes, ranging from minor to serious offenses. Punishment is set by the legal system through the courts and may be anything from a small fine to a life-sentence and in some countries and circumstances capital punishment.

Let’s take the example of a speeding offense and two possible motivations for this violation. Someone may have been speeding because they were in a hurry to arrive at their destination. Another person could be in a rush to get his pregnant wife to the hospital. Should they both receive the same fine? Some would say ‘yes’.

In cases of serious crimes like rape, murder and paedophilia, I believe, the courts shouldn’t be lenient. Everyone deserves a fair trial and is innocent until they are proved guilty, but under such circumstances, I feel the motivation and social conditions under which the law was broken are not valid. Life imprisonment and the death penalty should be applied.

In my opinion, there is no excuse for criminal action, particularly a severe one. Stealing food in cases of hunger is the only pardonable offense. The role of the court should only be to determine whether an offender is innocent or guilty. Other than that the punishment for each type of crime should be pre-determined. Allowing people to explain their circumstances or motivation weakens the punishment and excuses the crime. Furthermore, it wastes the court’s time and taxpayers’ money is spent on justifying criminal activities. Lastly, criminals and defence lawyers become good liars and fabricate the facts to suit a valid motivation.

Cambridge, Ielts 7 past papers, p. 54