Name: Date: reading (10 marks) 1

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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WRITING TASK 6 MODEL ANSWER

What can people do to live longer? What can a government do to increase the average life 

expectancy of its country’s citizens?

The average world lifespan is 70, but how you live your life can add or remove years from this number. 

Smoking, drinking alcohol and overeating can cause numerous health problems. By making changes to 

their lifestyle, people can increase their chances of a longer, healthier life. There are also a number of 

measures that governments can take to increase national life expectancy.

Individuals can take three important steps to live longer and improve their health. Firstly, they can 

improve their fitness through regular sport and other forms of exercise. Secondly, eating a more 

balanced diet that provides sufficient carbohydrates for energy, protein to build muscle and good 

quality fats such as omega 3s and 6s can help people stay healthy. A balanced diet will also increase the 

chances of getting the recommended daily allowance (RDA) of vitamins and minerals. Lastly, making 

some sacrifices, for instance quitting smoking and avoiding excessive consumption of alcohol, will have 

a very positive effect on health.

Governments can help increase their citizens’ average life expectancy by financing educational 

campaigns so that people understand the health benefits of exercise and the risks involved in smoking 

and drinking. Governments can also tax unhealthy foods, alcohol and tobacco and ban smoking 

in public places, something that has had a very positive effect on health in many countries. Finally, 

governments can promote sports and outdoor pursuits to encourage people to have a more active 

lifestyle.

In conclusion, there are a number of things people and governments can do to increase the health and 

lengthen life expectancy of the population. Education about the benefits of a healthy lifestyle is key, but 

more drastic measures such as taxes and outright bans may also be needed.

ADDITIONAL WRITING TASK 6

How can people in your country be encouraged to live healthier lives?