A balanced critical essay
Write 220–260 words discussing whether numerical targets improve public services. Examine assumptions, consider a counterargument and qualify your conclusion.
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Plan, write, revise
Suggested structure
- Clarify what numerical targets can and cannot measure.
- Examine an assumption and engage with a counterargument.
- Offer a qualified conclusion about their use.
Useful language
- This assumes that…
- Critics might reasonably argue…
- To the extent that…
Use these phrases if they fit your ideas. There is no single correct response.
220 more words to reach the suggested range.
This is guided self-review, not automatic grading. The word range is a guide. Editing your text clears the checklist so you can review the new version; previous lesson completion stays in your history.
See an illustrative response
Numerical targets can make priorities explicit and help public services identify weaknesses. However, an indicator is only a partial account of performance. If staff are rewarded solely for speed, they may have less incentive to address complex needs. Critics of this argument might reasonably point out that abandoning targets can weaken accountability. The answer, therefore, is not to reject measurement, but to combine it with informed professional judgement. Targets are most useful when they guide inquiry rather than substitute for it.
This example illustrates structure and tone and may be shorter than the suggested range. Develop your own response.
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