As rates of obesity, diabetes, and diet-related illnesses continue to rise globally, many policymakers have proposed a “sugar tax” as a way to reduce the consumption of unhealthy foods and beverages. This tax would increase the price of sugary drinks, sweet...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-07-23
Writing a compelling essay on a sugar tax requires more than just an opinion; it demands strong argumentation, solid evidence, and a nuanced understanding of counterclaims, skills that are crucial for achieving a top grade in your English exam.
Why this matters on the exam
The topic of a sugar tax is a classic example of an argumentative or discursive essay prompt you might encounter in your English studies (VG1-VG3). Examiners use such topics to assess your ability to construct a logical argument, engage with opposing viewpoints, and use precise, formal language. A typical exam question might not be "Should there be a sugar tax?" but something broader, such as "To what extent should governments intervene in citizens' lifestyle choices to promote public health?" or "Discuss the most effective strategies for combating non-communicable diseases." Mastering the structure and argumentation demonstrated in the essay below will prepare you to tackle any task that requires you to take a stand and defend it with evidence and reason.
This topic directly engages with core components of the English subject curriculum, such as exploring and reflecting on social issues in the English-speaking world. By analysing the sugar tax debate, you demonstrate an understanding of how different societies (like the UK, Mexico, or the USA) approach public health challenges. Furthermore, it tests your critical thinking by requiring you to evaluate the ethical and economic arguments from multiple perspectives. An examiner will look for your ability to connect the specific policy of a sugar tax to broader themes of social justice, personal freedom, and corporate responsibility.
Consider these potential exam prompts where the skills from this guide would be directly applicable: …