Get your personalised IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Sample Essay 1
In several areas across the US, local authorities impose curfews that prevent teenagers from being outdoors after certain hours unless accompanied by an adult. I believe that while this measure is intended to protect young individuals, it may also restrict their personal freedoms. This essay will explore how curfews can offer safety benefits while potentially hindering teenagers' development of independence.
One argument in favor of curfews is their effectiveness in minimizing risky behavior and reducing crime rates. Teenagers, when unsupervised late at night, are more likely to encounter dangerous situations such as being involved in fights, theft, or underage drinking. Late-night hours often expose them to unsavory influences, including peer pressure to engage in illegal or harmful activities. A curfew reduces these risks by limiting teenagers' chances of getting into trouble or becoming a target of violence. For instance, cities that have enforced strict curfew policies have seen a notable decline in juvenile crime rates, as youth are kept off the streets during hours when criminal activities peak. By imposing a curfew, society prioritizes the physical safety and well-being of teenagers, creating a more controlled and secure environment for them.
However, there is also a valid concern that curfews might stifle teenagers' sense of independence and personal growth. Adolescence is a critical period in which young people learn to make decisions, navigate social situations, and develop their identities. Limiting their ability to engage in nighttime activities may prevent them from experiencing important life lessons or building confidence in their ability to manage their own time and responsibilities. For example, activities like part-time jobs or late-night study groups may be affected, which could inadvertently hinder a teenager’s professional or academic growth. Moreover, over-policing and heavy-handed curfews can foster feelings of mistrust or rebellion, particularly if teenagers feel they are being unfairly treated or stripped of their autonomy.
In conclusion, while curfews serve as an important tool for enhancing the safety of teenagers and reducing crime, they may also limit personal freedoms and hinder the development of independence. Striking a balance between protection and freedom is essential to ensure that young people can grow in a safe yet empowering environment.
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score
Sample Essay 2
In certain regions of the US, curfews are enforced to restrict teenagers from being outdoors after a specific time unless accompanied by an adult. In my opinion, this policy is necessary to ensure the safety of young people and reduce juvenile crime. This essay will discuss how curfews enhance public safety and promote responsible behavior among teenagers.
One of the key reasons curfews are beneficial is their contribution to public safety. By restricting the movements of teenagers late at night, authorities can prevent potentially dangerous situations such as exposure to violence, accidents, or negative peer influences. Teenagers are often more vulnerable to reckless behavior when unsupervised, which can lead to drug use, vandalism, or even serious harm. For instance, studies have shown that a significant percentage of crimes involving youth occur during late hours, particularly in urban areas with limited law enforcement presence. A curfew thus acts as a preventative measure, reducing the risk of teenagers becoming either victims or perpetrators of criminal activities, while also easing the strain on public services like the police and emergency services. In this way, it not only safeguards teenagers but also helps create a more secure environment for the broader community.
Additionally, curfews encourage responsibility and discipline among teenagers by instilling a sense of structure in their lives. Adhering to a curfew teaches them to respect rules and authority, fostering a sense of accountability and maturity. For example, knowing they must return home by a certain time requires them to plan their activities more carefully, which can positively influence their time management and decision-making skills in the long run. Moreover, the restriction of their freedom can prompt self-reflection, helping them differentiate between necessary and unnecessary activities. Furthermore, the involvement of adults in their nighttime activities promotes family bonding and offers opportunities for guidance, which is crucial in their formative years, especially when making critical life choices. However, while curfews promote discipline, they can also lead to resentment if perceived as too controlling, highlighting the need for balanced enforcement.
In conclusion, curfews play a vital role in protecting teenagers from potential dangers and encouraging responsible behavior. By limiting unsupervised nighttime activities, curfews help to create safer communities and instill valuable life skills in young individuals. These benefits make curfews a practical and effective policy for teenage welfare.
Get your personalized IELTS Essay Feedback from a former examiner
Download IELTS eBooks, get everything you need to achieve a high band score