Access to clean water is a basic human right. Therefore, every home should have a water supply that is provided free of charge. Do you agree or disagree?
(Cambridge IELTS Book 20 Test 1)
Give reasons for your answer and include any relevant examples from your own knowledge or experience.
Write at least 250 words.
(This is a Band 9 sample written with Gemini, following IELTS Simon’s style closely)
It is often argued that because clean water is a fundamental necessity for human survival, it should be provided to every household at no cost. While I agree that everyone should have a right to a basic amount of water, I disagree with the idea that it should be entirely free of charge for all users.
On the one hand, there are clear humanitarian reasons why a basic supply of water should be guaranteed. Water is essential for health, hygiene, and the prevention of disease, meaning that those living in poverty should never be denied access simply because they cannot afford it. If governments provided a free minimum allowance of water to every household, it would ensure that the most vulnerable members of society are protected. This approach treats water as a public service, similar to primary education or basic healthcare, which are often funded through taxation rather than direct user fees.
On the other hand, providing unlimited water for free could lead to significant problems, most notably regarding wastage. When a resource is free, people tend to value it less and may use it irresponsibly, such as for watering large lawns or washing cars excessively. In the context of a global water crisis and increasing scarcity, it is vital to encourage conservation. A more effective system would be a tiered pricing model, where a basic amount of water is free or very cheap, but usage beyond that level is charged at a higher rate. This would provide a financial incentive for individuals to be mindful of their consumption.
In conclusion, while I believe that a baseline level of water should be accessible to everyone regardless of their income, I do not support the idea of a completely free supply for all homes, as this would likely lead to the depletion of a precious resource.
Keywords: IELTS Simon, Cambridge IELTS 20