Childhood obesity has become one of the most pressing health issues of the 21st century. In many countries, increasing numbers of children are overweight or obese, leading to long-term risks such as diabetes, heart disease, and psychological problems. As th...
Faglig kvalitetssikret av lærere og toppstudenter · Følger læreplanen (LK20) · Sist oppdatert 2026-07-23
Debating whether parents should be responsible for their children’s obesity requires a nuanced understanding of arguments on both sides, a skill crucial for excelling in argumentative essay writing on your English exam. This guide deconstructs the issue, providing the depth needed to write a high-scoring essay.
Introduction
Childhood obesity has become one of the most pressing health issues of the 21st century. In many countries, increasing numbers of children are overweight or obese, leading to long-term risks such as diabetes, heart disease, and psychological problems. As the situation becomes more severe, a controversial debate has emerged about who should be held responsible. Some argue that parents are primarily to blame because they control their children’s diet and lifestyle. Others believe that factors such as schools, food companies, and modern society also play major roles. This essay will argue that although parents do carry significant responsibility, childhood obesity is a complex issue influenced by multiple social, economic, and environmental factors.
Why this matters on the exam
In the English subject curriculum (LK20), you are expected to discuss and elaborate on social issues from the English-speaking world. This topic is a classic example of an argumentative task that frequently appears on exams. You might see a prompt like, "Discuss the extent to which individuals are responsible for their own health outcomes," or "Analyse the ethical responsibilities of corporations in public health." This essay topic tests your ability to construct a balanced argument, use formal language, and support your claims with logical reasoning. Mastering this type of discussion demonstrates critical thinking and a sophisticated command of English, which are key assessment objectives for achieving a high grade. …