The topic of global vaccination programs frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, especially since the COVID-19 pandemic. Based on analysis of past exam questions, this theme has appeared in various forms focusing on mandatory vaccination policies, public health measures, and international cooperation. Let’s examine a common question type that has appeared multiple times in recent years.
IELTS candidates preparing for writing task about global vaccination programs
Sample Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should make vaccination mandatory for all citizens to prevent the spread of infectious diseases. Others think vaccination should remain a personal choice. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine arguments for and against mandatory vaccination
- Present balanced discussion of both perspectives
- Include personal stance with supporting evidence
- Consider ethical and practical implications
Similar to should vaccinations be mandatory for all citizens, this topic requires careful consideration of public health and individual rights.
Band 8-9 Sample Essay
The debate over mandatory vaccination policies has intensified globally, with compelling arguments on both sides. While some advocate for universal immunization requirements, others strongly defend individual choice in medical decisions.
Those supporting mandatory vaccination argue that it serves the greater good of society. Government-enforced vaccination programs have historically proven effective in eradicating devastating diseases like smallpox and significantly reducing others like polio. Furthermore, high vaccination rates create herd immunity, protecting vulnerable individuals who cannot receive vaccines due to medical conditions.
However, opponents emphasize personal autonomy in healthcare decisions. They contend that forcing medical procedures violates fundamental human rights and bodily autonomy. Additionally, some raise concerns about potential vaccine side effects and argue that individuals should have the freedom to weigh risks versus benefits for themselves.
In my opinion, while personal freedom is important, the collective benefit of widespread vaccination outweighs individual preferences in this context. Just as how universal healthcare can reduce global health inequalities, mandatory vaccination programs can significantly improve public health outcomes. However, implementation should include medical exemptions and transparent communication about vaccine safety and efficacy.
Global vaccination program showing healthcare workers administering vaccines
Band 6-7 Sample Essay
The question of whether governments should make vaccination compulsory is widely debated today. There are different opinions about this issue that need to be considered carefully.
On one side, making vaccines mandatory could help protect public health. When more people get vaccinated, it becomes harder for diseases to spread in the community. For example, many countries have successfully reduced childhood diseases through required vaccination programs, similar to how should childhood vaccinations be mandatory.
However, some people believe that vaccination should be a personal choice. They worry about vaccine safety and think everyone should have the right to decide about their own health. They say that forcing people to get vaccines goes against personal freedom.
In my view, while I understand concerns about personal choice, mandatory vaccination is necessary for public safety. The benefits of preventing serious diseases outweigh the limitations on individual choice. However, governments should ensure vaccines are safe and provide clear information to the public.
Key Vocabulary
- Herd immunity (n) /hɜːd ɪˈmjuːnɪti/ – protection from disease due to majority vaccination
- Autonomy (n) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – right to make own decisions
- Immunization (n) /ɪˌmjuːnaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – process of making immune through vaccination
- Eradicate (v) /ɪˈrædɪkeɪt/ – completely eliminate
- Mandatory (adj) /ˈmændətəri/ – required by law
High-scoring Sentence Patterns
- Complex sentence with concession: “While personal freedom is important, the collective benefit outweighs individual preferences.”
- Cause-effect structure: “When vaccination rates increase, disease transmission decreases proportionally.”
- Parallel structure: “Not only does mandatory vaccination protect individuals, but it also safeguards entire communities.”
For practice, write your own essay addressing this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback. Consider how should vaccinations be mandatory for schoolchildren when developing your arguments.
