Crime & LawDiscuss Both ViewsIntermediateMedium Frequency

IELTS Essay: Some people think the only purpose of prison is to punish crimes. Others thin...

Prompt

Some people think the only purpose of prison is to punish crimes. Others think it has other functions. Discuss both views and give your opinion.

#prison reform#punishment vs. rehabilitation#criminal justice system#recidivism#societal goals

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Band 7 → 9 — Band 7 outlines both views clearly and states a position, while Band 9 critiques the false dichotomy and argues that prisons must balance multiple legitimate functions with evidence from comparative criminal justice systems.

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Key concepts in this essay

Punishment philosophy and deterrence theory
Rehabilitation and reintegration goals
Recidivism rates and long-term public safety outcomes
Purpose of incarceration in modern justice systems

Pitfalls the model essay avoids

Presenting punishment and rehabilitation as entirely incompatible rather than potentially complementary
Neglecting to discuss practical realities (e.g., prisons serve both functions simultaneously)
Oversimplifying either view without considering evidence on effectiveness

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