The topic of protecting natural resources has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on an analysis of past papers and current environmental trends, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a common question type related to this theme and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following question, which is representative of the types of tasks you might encounter:
Some people believe that protecting natural resources should be the responsibility of individuals, while others think governments should be in charge. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category. It requires you to:
- Explain why individuals should be responsible for protecting natural resources
- Discuss why governments should take charge of protecting natural resources
- Provide your personal opinion on the matter
Sample Band 8 Essay
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8 range:
In today’s world, the preservation of natural resources has become a pressing concern. While some argue that this responsibility lies with individuals, others believe it should be primarily managed by governments. In my opinion, both parties have crucial roles to play, but governments should take the lead in this endeavor.
Those who advocate for individual responsibility argue that personal actions have a direct impact on resource consumption. By adopting eco-friendly habits such as recycling, conserving water, and reducing energy usage, individuals can significantly contribute to resource protection. Moreover, when people take personal responsibility, they are more likely to be invested in environmental issues and influence others around them, creating a ripple effect of positive change.
On the other hand, proponents of government-led initiatives argue that protecting natural resources requires large-scale coordination and regulation that only governments can provide. Governments have the power to implement and enforce environmental laws, invest in renewable energy infrastructure, and negotiate international agreements on resource management. They can also allocate significant funds for research and development of sustainable technologies, which is often beyond the capacity of individuals.
In my view, while individual actions are undoubtedly important, the primary responsibility should rest with governments. The scale and complexity of environmental challenges necessitate a systematic approach that only governments can orchestrate. They can create incentives for sustainable practices, penalize polluters, and shape national policies that promote resource conservation. However, for these measures to be truly effective, they must be complemented by individual awareness and action.
In conclusion, protecting natural resources is a shared responsibility. While individuals play a vital role through their daily choices and behaviors, governments must take the lead in creating a framework for sustainable resource management. Only through this collaborative approach can we hope to safeguard our planet’s precious resources for future generations.
(Word count: 298)
Protecting Natural Resources
Sample Band 6 Essay
Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6 range:
Natural resources are very important for our planet. Some people think individuals should protect them, while others believe it’s the government’s job. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Individuals can do many things to protect natural resources. They can save water, use less electricity, and recycle things. When people do these actions, they help save resources. Also, if many people do this, it can make a big difference. People can teach their friends and family about protecting the environment too.
On the other hand, governments have more power to protect natural resources. They can make laws to stop pollution and punish companies that harm the environment. Governments can also spend money on new technologies that help save resources. They can make agreements with other countries to work together on environmental problems.
In my opinion, both individuals and governments are important for protecting natural resources. Individuals can make small changes every day, but governments can make big changes that affect everyone. I think governments should do more because they have more power and money to solve big problems.
To conclude, protecting natural resources is everyone’s job. Individuals should do what they can in their daily lives, but governments should take the main responsibility. If we all work together, we can save our planet’s resources for the future.
(Word count: 218)
Key Considerations When Writing
For Band 8:
- Use a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures
- Provide clear, well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Maintain a cohesive flow throughout the essay
- Express ideas with nuance and sophistication
For Band 6:
- Use a mix of simple and complex sentences
- Provide basic arguments with some supporting details
- Maintain a generally coherent structure
- Express ideas clearly, even if not always with precision
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Natural resources (noun) /ˈnætʃrəl rɪˈsɔːsɪz/ – materials or substances occurring in nature which can be exploited for economic gain
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level
- Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – prevention of wasteful use of a resource
- Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
- Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
- Environmental impact (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˈɪmpækt/ – the effect of human activities on the environment
Conclusion
The importance of protecting natural resources is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in essays on this subject, focus on developing well-structured arguments, using appropriate vocabulary, and balancing different viewpoints. Practice writing essays on related topics such as climate change, renewable energy, or wildlife conservation to further improve your skills.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay based on the question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to enhance your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam.