Marine conservation is a crucial topic in today’s world, and it’s no surprise that it frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and the increasing global focus on environmental issues, we can expect questions related to protecting marine ecosystems to continue appearing in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and provide comprehensive essay examples to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Many marine ecosystems are being destroyed by human activities. What are the causes of this problem, and what measures can be taken to protect marine life?
This question is a typical example of a problem-solution essay. It requires you to discuss:
- The causes of marine ecosystem destruction
- Measures to protect marine life
Let’s break down the key elements:
- Topic: Marine ecosystem destruction
- Task: Identify causes and propose solutions
- Key words: “marine ecosystems,” “destroyed,” “human activities,” “causes,” “measures,” “protect marine life”
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Marine ecosystems, vital for the planet’s health and biodiversity, are facing unprecedented threats due to human activities. This essay will explore the primary causes of this alarming issue and propose effective measures to safeguard our oceans and their inhabitants.
The destruction of marine ecosystems can be attributed to several human-induced factors. Firstly, pollution, particularly plastic waste, is choking our oceans. Millions of tons of plastic enter marine environments annually, causing severe harm to sea creatures and disrupting delicate ecosystems. Secondly, overfishing has led to the depletion of fish stocks worldwide, upsetting the balance of marine food chains and pushing many species to the brink of extinction. Lastly, climate change, driven by greenhouse gas emissions, is causing ocean acidification and rising sea temperatures, which are detrimental to coral reefs and other sensitive marine habitats.
To address these issues and protect marine life, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. One crucial measure is to implement and enforce stricter regulations on pollution and waste management. Governments should ban single-use plastics and incentivize the use of biodegradable alternatives. Additionally, improved waste management systems and public awareness campaigns can help reduce the amount of pollution entering our oceans. Another essential step is to establish more marine protected areas (MPAs) and enforce fishing quotas. These measures can help restore fish populations and preserve critical habitats. Finally, addressing climate change through reduced carbon emissions and investment in renewable energy sources is vital for the long-term health of marine ecosystems.
In conclusion, the destruction of marine ecosystems is a complex problem with far-reaching consequences. By tackling pollution, overfishing, and climate change through a combination of regulatory measures, conservation efforts, and sustainable practices, we can work towards protecting our oceans and the diverse life they support. It is imperative that governments, businesses, and individuals take immediate action to ensure the preservation of these invaluable ecosystems for future generations.
(Word count: 309)
Marine ecosystem protection
Band 6-7 Essay
Marine ecosystems are being destroyed by human activities, which is a serious problem. This essay will discuss the causes of this issue and suggest some ways to protect marine life.
One of the main causes of marine ecosystem destruction is pollution. Many people throw plastic and other waste into the sea, which harms sea animals and plants. For example, turtles often mistake plastic bags for jellyfish and eat them, which can be fatal. Another cause is overfishing. Some fishing companies catch too many fish, which reduces fish populations and affects the whole marine food chain. Additionally, climate change is making the oceans warmer and more acidic, which is bad for coral reefs and other sea creatures.
To protect marine life, several measures can be taken. Firstly, governments should make stricter laws about pollution and fishing. They could ban single-use plastics and set limits on how much fish can be caught. Secondly, education is important. Schools and media should teach people about the importance of marine ecosystems and how to protect them. Finally, creating more marine protected areas would give sea animals and plants safe places to live and grow.
In conclusion, human activities like pollution, overfishing, and climate change are destroying marine ecosystems. By implementing stricter laws, educating people, and creating protected areas, we can help protect marine life. It’s important that everyone works together to solve this problem and save our oceans.
(Word count: 238)
Writing Tips
When addressing topics related to marine ecosystem protection in IELTS Writing Task 2, consider the following tips:
Vocabulary
- Use specific environmental terms: “biodiversity,” “ecosystem,” “conservation,” “habitat”
- Employ precise verbs: “deplete,” “conserve,” “preserve,” “rehabilitate”
- Utilize academic phrases: “Furthermore,” “Moreover,” “In addition to,” “Consequently”
Grammar
- Use a variety of sentence structures, including complex sentences with dependent clauses
- Employ conditional sentences to discuss hypothetical situations or potential solutions
- Utilize passive voice when appropriate, especially when discussing actions taken by authorities
Structure
- Clearly state your main ideas in topic sentences
- Use cohesive devices to link paragraphs and ideas
- Ensure a logical flow of information throughout the essay
Content
- Provide specific examples to support your arguments
- Consider both local and global perspectives on marine conservation
- Discuss both short-term and long-term solutions
Key Vocabulary
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Marine ecosystem (noun) /məˈriːn ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: The community of living organisms in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment in the sea.
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas from damage or destruction.
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Overfishing (noun) /ˌəʊvəˈfɪʃɪŋ/: The practice of catching too many fish in an area, resulting in a depletion of fish stocks.
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Pollution (noun) /pəˈluːʃn/: The presence or introduction of harmful substances into the environment.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources or causing ecological damage.
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Acidification (noun) /əˌsɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/: The process of becoming acid or being converted into an acid, particularly in reference to the increasing acidity of the world’s oceans.
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Habitat (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt/: The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.
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Coral bleaching (noun) /ˈkɒrəl ˈbliːtʃɪŋ/: The process by which corals lose their vibrant colors and turn white due to stress factors such as changes in temperature, light, or nutrients.
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Marine protected area (noun) /məˈriːn prəˈtektɪd ˈeəriə/: A section of the ocean where human activity is restricted to protect natural or cultural resources.
Conclusion
Protecting marine ecosystems is a crucial topic that requires our immediate attention and action. As you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2, remember to practice writing essays on this and related environmental themes. Consider exploring topics such as:
- The impact of plastic pollution on marine life
- The role of international cooperation in ocean conservation
- Sustainable fishing practices and their importance
- The effects of climate change on marine biodiversity
- Balancing economic development with marine ecosystem protection
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the sample question provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.