Crime & LawDiscuss Both ViewsIntermediateMedium Frequency

IELTS Essay: Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison ...

Prompt

Some people think that the best way to reduce crime is to give longer prison sentences. Others, however, believe that there are better alternative ways of reducing crime. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

#sentencing_severity#deterrence_debate#alternative_sentences#effectiveness_evidence#criminal_justice_reform

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Band 7 → 9 — Band 7 weighs longer sentences against alternatives; Band 9 argues research shows punishment certainty, not length, deters crime, and that alternatives (probation, restitution, treatment) are more cost-effective for many offenders.

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Key concepts in this essay

Deterrence theory: severity vs. certainty of punishment
Evidence on sentence length and crime reduction (limited)
Prison costs vs. alternative sentence costs
Rehabilitation outcomes in longer vs. shorter incarceration
Differentiation by offense type: violent vs. property vs. drug crimes

Pitfalls the model essay avoids

Treating longer sentences as proven deterrent without citing research showing certainty of punishment matters more than severity
Failing to explain what alternatives exist (community service, fines, restitution, rehabilitation programs) and why they might be effective for certain offenders
Overlooking that long sentences for low-level crime wastes resources and creates hardened criminals

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