Government transparency has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past decade. Recent examination trends suggest this topic will remain significant, particularly as issues of why governments should regulate the use of personal data become increasingly relevant.
Let’s analyze a common question type that has appeared in recent IELTS examinations:
Some people believe that governments should be completely transparent in all their operations, while others think certain information should remain confidential. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine arguments for complete transparency
- Consider reasons for maintaining confidentiality
- Present and justify their own position
Government transparency debate in modern democratic society
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The debate over governmental transparency versus confidentiality represents a critical balance between public accountability and national security. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a carefully balanced approach is essential.
Proponents of complete transparency argue that it ensures accountability and prevents corruption. When all government operations are visible to the public, officials are more likely to act ethically and in the public’s best interest. This transparency also fosters trust between citizens and their government, as demonstrated by countries like Norway and Denmark, where role of media in political transparency has strengthened democratic institutions.
However, those advocating for selective confidentiality present compelling counterarguments. Certain information, particularly regarding national security and diplomatic negotiations, requires discretion to protect public safety and maintain effective international relations. For instance, premature disclosure of sensitive trade negotiations could compromise a country’s economic interests.
In my view, a nuanced approach is optimal. Governments should maintain transparency in financial transactions, policy decisions, and administrative procedures while protecting genuinely sensitive information. This balance can be achieved through independent oversight committees and clear classification guidelines.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Today, many people discuss if governments should tell everything to public or keep some information secret. This topic has good points on both sides.
Some people think governments must show all information. They say this helps stop bad things like corruption and makes politicians honest. When people can see what government does with money and decisions, they trust government more. This is similar to importance of transparency in financial transactions in business.
But other people think some information should stay private. They worry about safety of country and say some secrets are important to protect people. For example, military plans or spy information must stay secret. Also, when talking with other countries, some private talks help make better deals.
I think both ideas are partly right. Governments should show most things to people but can keep some very important secrets. They need good rules about what stays secret and what becomes public.
Key Vocabulary
- transparency (n) /trænsˈpærənsi/ – openness and clarity in operations
- confidentiality (n) /ˌkɒnfɪdenʃiˈæləti/ – secrecy, privacy
- accountability (n) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – responsibility to explain actions
- discretion (n) /dɪˈskreʃən/ – freedom to decide
- nuanced (adj) /ˈnjuːɑːnst/ – showing subtle differences
Scoring Analysis
-
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression of ideas
- Effective use of examples
- Strong cohesion and coherence
-
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Simple but clear language
- Basic organization
- Some errors but message remains clear
- Limited range of vocabulary
Consider practicing with similar topics like how government censorship affects freedom of speech to improve your writing skills. Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and discussion.
