top of page

Crime

a picture of a house

Band 5-7 Vocab

  1. Crime (noun): An illegal act that can be punished by law.

    • Example sentence: Stealing is a crime punishable by law.

  2. Police (noun): A law enforcement agency responsible for maintaining public order and safety.

    • Example sentence: The police arrived at the scene of the crime to investigate.

  3. Thief (noun): A person who steals something.

    • Example sentence: The thief was caught stealing from the store.

  4. Victim (noun): A person who suffers harm, loss, or injury as a result of a crime or accident.

    • Example sentence: The victim of the robbery reported the incident to the police.

  5. Witness (noun): A person who sees an event, typically a crime or accident, take place.

    • Example sentence: The witness provided valuable information to the police about the crime.

  6. Evidence (noun): The available body of facts or information indicating whether a belief or proposition is true or valid.

    • Example sentence: The fingerprints found at the scene were crucial evidence in solving the crime.

  7. Arrest (verb): To take someone into custody, typically for a suspected crime.

    • Example sentence: The police arrested the suspect and took him to the station for questioning.

  8. Jail (noun): A place of detention for those accused or convicted of a crime.

    • Example sentence: The thief was sentenced to two years in jail for his crimes.

IELTS Sample Answer

00:00 / 01:07

Question: Discuss the importance of law enforcement in preventing crime. What role do you think police officers play in maintaining public safety?


Law enforcement plays a crucial role in preventing crime and maintaining public safety. Police officers are responsible for patrolling neighborhoods, investigating crimes, and apprehending suspects. Their presence deters criminal activity and provides a sense of security to the community.

Police officers also play a vital role in responding to emergencies and providing assistance to those in need. They enforce laws and regulations, ensuring that individuals adhere to societal norms and behaviors. Through their work, police officers contribute to the overall well-being of society by promoting lawfulness and order.

Furthermore, police officers build relationships with the community, fostering trust and cooperation. By engaging with residents and addressing their concerns, they can better understand local issues and implement effective crime prevention strategies. Overall, the role of law enforcement is indispensable in creating a safe and secure environment for everyone.

Band 7-9 Vocab

  1. Criminal (noun): A person who has committed a crime.

    • Example sentence: The police are searching for the criminal responsible for the bank robbery.

  2. Investigation (noun): The process of carrying out a systematic inquiry to uncover facts and details about a crime or incident.

    • Example sentence: The investigation revealed new evidence that led to the arrest of the suspect.

  3. Prosecution (noun): The institution and conducting of legal proceedings against someone in respect of a criminal charge.

    • Example sentence: The prosecution presented its case against the defendant in court.

  4. Conviction (noun): A formal declaration by the verdict of a jury or the decision of a judge in a court of law that someone is guilty of a criminal offense.

    • Example sentence: The defendant's conviction was based on strong evidence presented during the trial.

  5. Punishment (noun): The infliction or imposition of a penalty as retribution for an offense.

    • Example sentence: The judge handed down a severe punishment for the crime committed.

  6. Homicide (noun): The deliberate and unlawful killing of one person by another; murder.

    • Example sentence: The investigation concluded that the death was a case of homicide.

  7. Fraud (noun): Wrongful or criminal deception intended to result in financial or personal gain.

    • Example sentence: The company lost millions of dollars due to fraudulent activities by its employees.

  8. Gang (noun): An organized group of criminals.

    • Example sentence: The police arrested several members of the gang involved in drug trafficking.

IELTS Sample Answer

00:00 / 01:19

Question: Discuss the effectiveness of different approaches to reducing crime rates. What measures do you think are most successful, and why?


Reducing crime rates requires a multifaceted approach that addresses various factors contributing to criminal behavior. One effective measure is investing in education and social programs aimed at providing opportunities and support to at-risk individuals. By addressing underlying socioeconomic issues, such as poverty and lack of access to education, these programs can prevent individuals from turning to crime.

Additionally, community policing initiatives, where law enforcement officers work closely with residents to address local concerns, have proven successful in reducing crime rates. Building trust and cooperation between police and the community fosters a sense of ownership and responsibility for public safety.

Moreover, implementing stricter laws and harsher penalties for offenders can serve as a deterrent to crime. However, it is essential to ensure that these measures are accompanied by rehabilitation programs to facilitate reintegration into society.

Ultimately, a comprehensive approach that combines prevention, enforcement, and rehabilitation strategies is most effective in reducing crime rates and creating safer communities.

bottom of page