Sample Answer, C1 English Level, Advanced, Band Score 6.5-7.5

Outline:

• 1. Introduction:
     • Paraphrase of the topic: The death penalty is a contentious issue, with some arguing for its abolition due to inhumanity and ineffectiveness, while others advocate for its necessity as a crime deterrent.
     • Main opinion or idea: The death penalty should be abolished in favor of more humane and effective crime prevention and punishment methods.
  2. Body (Detail 1):
     • Support for the main opinion: The death penalty is considered inhumane and violates the right to life.
     • Personal experience and knowledge: As someone who values the sanctity of human life, I find it challenging to support a system that takes away a person’s fundamental right to live.
  3. Body (Detail 2):
     • Support for the main opinion: The death penalty may not effectively deter crime.
     • Personal experience and knowledge: While proponents argue it deters criminals, I believe focusing on rehabilitation and addressing root causes of crime can be more effective in reducing criminal behavior.
  4. Conclusion:
     • Summary of body paragraphs: The death penalty debate revolves around its perceived inhumanity and effectiveness as a deterrent.
     • Restate the main opinion: Abolishing the death penalty is the more just and compassionate approach, emphasizing humane crime prevention and punishment methods.
     • Closing thought: Prioritizing rehabilitation, education, employment opportunities, and mental health support can contribute to building a more equitable and safer society.

Essay:

The topic of the death penalty has long been a subject of intense debate, with some advocating for its abolition due to its perceived inhumanity and lack of efficacy, while others argue for its necessity as a crime deterrent. In this essay, I will explore both viewpoints and offer my opinion on the matter, drawing from personal experiences and knowledge.

Those in favor of abolishing the death penalty assert that it is a cruel and inhumane form of punishment that violates the right to life. Moreover, there is evidence to suggest that the death penalty does not serve as an effective deterrent against crime. As someone who believes in the sanctity of human life, I find it difficult to support a system that takes away the very essence of what it means to be human.

On the other hand, proponents of the death penalty argue that it serves as a necessary deterrent, preventing potential criminals from committing heinous acts out of fear of the ultimate consequence. They believe that the fear of facing the death penalty can dissuade individuals from engaging in violent and severe crimes. While I understand the intention behind this viewpoint, I believe that the death penalty fails to address the root causes of crime and does not effectively reduce criminal behavior.

In my opinion, the death penalty should be abolished in favor of more humane and effective methods of punishment and crime prevention. Instead of focusing on punishment alone, society should invest in rehabilitation and social programs that address the underlying factors that lead individuals to commit crimes. Additionally, promoting education, employment opportunities, and mental health support can play a crucial role in reducing crime rates.

In conclusion, the debate over the death penalty is complex, with valid arguments on both sides. While some believe it is necessary for deterring crime, others argue for its abolition due to concerns of inhumanity and inefficacy. From my perspective, prioritizing humane and effective approaches to crime prevention and rehabilitation is essential for building a more just and compassionate society.