Climate change is a pressing global issue with far-reaching consequences, and its effects on coastal cities are particularly alarming. This topic frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2, prompting candidates to analyze the problems, discuss solutions, and present balanced arguments. This essay will delve into a specific question related to this theme, provide a sample band 8 answer, and offer valuable insights into vocabulary and grammar to help you excel in your IELTS exam.
Sample IELTS Essay Question
Climate change poses significant threats to coastal cities. Some people believe that relocating residents of these areas is the most effective solution, while others argue for investing in protective measures. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents a classic “Discuss both views and give your opinion” format. It requires you to:
- Acknowledge both sides of the argument: Discuss the merits of relocating coastal residents and investing in protective infrastructure.
- Present your own opinion: Clearly state your stance on the issue and provide justification for your viewpoint.
- Maintain a balanced approach: While presenting your opinion, ensure that you acknowledge the counter-arguments and address them fairly.
Sample Band 8 Essay
Climate change is an undeniable reality, and its impacts are felt most acutely in coastal regions worldwide. As sea levels rise and extreme weather events become more frequent, the viability of living in these areas is increasingly called into question. While some advocate for relocating coastal populations as the most pragmatic solution, others believe that investing in protective measures offers a more sustainable approach. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting a nuanced argument in favor of the latter.
Proponents of relocation argue that it represents the most effective means of safeguarding human lives and minimizing economic losses. They contend that the costs of constructing and maintaining elaborate sea walls and other protective infrastructure are unsustainable in the long term, especially given the unpredictable nature of climate change. Furthermore, they highlight the potential for displacement and social disruption if entire communities are uprooted and forced to start anew.
Conversely, advocates for protective measures emphasize the historical, cultural, and economic significance of coastal cities. They argue that abandoning these areas would result in the loss of invaluable heritage and the displacement of millions of people. Instead, they propose investing in a combination of hard infrastructure, such as seawalls and storm surge barriers, and soft infrastructure, such as early warning systems and disaster preparedness programs. They believe that such a multi-pronged approach can mitigate the risks posed by climate change and allow coastal communities to adapt and thrive.
Coastal City Protection
While relocation might seem like a straightforward solution, it presents significant logistical and ethical challenges. Uprooting entire populations would be a monumental undertaking, fraught with legal complexities and potentially exacerbating existing social inequalities. Moreover, it would sever the deep-rooted connections that people have with their homes and communities. Investing in protective measures, on the other hand, allows for a more sustainable and equitable approach, albeit one that requires substantial financial commitment and international cooperation. By combining engineering ingenuity with social resilience, we can empower coastal cities to withstand the challenges of a changing climate and preserve their unique character for generations to come.
Word count: 321 words
Notes for Writing
- Clearly state your position: In the introduction, clearly state your opinion on the issue.
- Develop your arguments logically: Use clear topic sentences and supporting evidence to develop your arguments.
- Use transition words and phrases: Use a variety of transition words and phrases to connect your ideas and create a cohesive essay.
- Avoid informal language: Use formal language and avoid contractions or slang.
- Proofread carefully: Before submitting your essay, proofread carefully for any grammatical or spelling errors.
Vocabulary
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪt.ɪ.ɡeɪt/: Make (something bad) less severe, serious, or painful.
- Pragmatic (adjective) /præɡˈmæt.ɪk/: Dealing with things sensibly and realistically in a way that is based on practical rather than theoretical considerations.
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪ.nə.bəl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
- Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/: The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities (e.g., buildings, roads, power supplies) needed for the operation of a society or enterprise.
- Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪl.i.əns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Conclusion
The impact of climate change on coastal cities is a complex and multifaceted issue. When crafting your IELTS essay, it’s crucial to present a well-structured argument, support your claims with evidence, and utilize a wide range of vocabulary. Remember to practice regularly, analyze sample essays, and seek feedback to refine your writing skills. Other related topics that may appear in the IELTS exam include the role of governments in combating climate change, the impact of rising sea levels on island nations, and the feasibility of renewable energy sources in mitigating climate change.
