About Some people think that paying taxes is their only duty while

IELTS Band 9 Essay About Some people think that paying taxes is their only duty while others

Here we take a look at a band 9 ielts writing task 2 sample about “About Some people think that paying taxes is their only duty while others believe that we have more responsibilities towards our society”. This sample then will be further analyzed for its vocabulary, grammar and format, so we see how it has qualified for such band score. We also suggest over 200 band 9 IELTS samples released in 2025.

Sample Essay (Band 9)

Some people think that paying taxes is their only duty, while others believe that we have more responsibilities towards our society.

Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

The question of whether paying taxes is the only duty of citizens or if they have broader responsibilities towards society is a contentious one. While some argue that fulfilling tax obligations is sufficient, others believe that citizens should actively contribute to the well-being of their communities. In my opinion, paying taxes is a fundamental responsibility, but it should not be the only way individuals contribute to society.

On the one hand, paying taxes is undeniably a crucial duty of every citizen. Taxes are the primary source of revenue for governments, enabling them to provide essential services such as healthcare, education, and infrastructure. For example, taxes fund public schools, hospitals, and transportation systems, which are integral to the functioning of society. By paying taxes, individuals fulfill their role in supporting these services, ensuring that they are accessible to everyone. This financial contribution is often seen as the most significant way citizens can support their communities.

On the other hand, many argue that citizens have a moral obligation to go beyond paying taxes and actively participate in societal development. Volunteering, donating to charities, and engaging in community service are ways individuals can make a tangible difference. For instance, volunteering at a local food bank or participating in environmental clean-up initiatives directly benefits society and fosters a sense of collective responsibility. Moreover, being an active and informed citizen, such as voting in elections or advocating for social justice, strengthens democracy and promotes equitable progress.

In my view, while paying taxes is a fundamental duty, it should not be the sole responsibility of citizens. A thriving society requires active participation from its members, as governments alone cannot address all social challenges. For example, grassroots movements and community-led initiatives often fill gaps that public services cannot cover. By engaging in such activities, individuals not only contribute to societal well-being but also build stronger, more resilient communities.

In conclusion, paying taxes is an essential responsibility, but it is not the only way citizens can contribute to society. Active participation in community service, volunteering, and civic engagement are equally important in creating a just and prosperous society. By embracing both financial and non-financial responsibilities, individuals can play a more comprehensive role in shaping a better future for all.

Academic Vocabulary Words in the sample for About Some people think that paying taxes is their only duty

Contentious (/kənˈtɛnʃəs/)
- Example: The issue of climate change is highly contentious among policymakers.
- Meaning: Causing or likely to cause an argument; controversial.
Crucial (/ˈkruːʃəl/)
- Example: Education plays a crucial role in personal and societal development.
- Meaning: Extremely important or necessary.
Integral (/ˈɪntɪɡrəl/)
- Example: Teamwork is integral to the success of any organization.
- Meaning: Necessary to make a whole complete; essential.
Tangible (/ˈtændʒəbəl/)
- Example: The project had a tangible impact on the local community.
- Meaning: Perceptible by touch; clear and definite.
Resilient (/rɪˈzɪliənt/)
- Example: The community showed remarkable resilience after the natural disaster.
- Meaning: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.

Advanced Grammar Structures and Their Contribution to a Higher Band Score

Conditional Sentences (Second Conditional):
- Example: “If citizens only paid taxes without engaging in community service, many social issues would remain unaddressed.”
- Contribution: Demonstrates the ability to discuss hypothetical situations, which is a marker of advanced language proficiency.
Passive Voice:
- Example: “Taxes are used to fund essential public services.”
- Contribution: Shifts focus to the action rather than the subject, adding variety and sophistication to the writing.
Relative Clauses:
- Example: “Citizens, who are the backbone of society, have a duty to contribute beyond paying taxes.”
- Contribution: Adds complexity to sentences and provides additional information without breaking the flow.
Cleft Sentences:
- Example: “What society needs is active participation from its citizens.”
- Contribution: Emphasizes specific parts of the sentence, making the argument more persuasive and nuanced.
Inversion for Emphasis:
- Example: “Not only do taxes fund public services, but they also promote social equity.”
- Contribution: Adds a formal tone and highlights key points, which is essential for achieving a higher band score.

Format and Features of a Band 9 Essay

Clear Introduction: The introduction presents the topic and the writer’s opinion in a concise manner.
Coherent Paragraphs: Each paragraph focuses on a single idea, supported by examples and explanations.
Academic Vocabulary: The use of advanced and varied vocabulary enhances the quality of the essay.
Complex Grammar Structures: The inclusion of advanced grammar structures demonstrates a high level of language proficiency.
Strong Conclusion: The conclusion summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion effectively.

By adhering to these features, the essay achieves clarity, coherence, and sophistication, contributing to a Band 9 score.

Free IELTS Sample Essays with Answers PDF

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