Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Climate Change’s Impact on Freshwater Resources

Climate change and its effects on freshwater resources have become increasingly important topics in recent years. As an IELTS Writing Task 2 examiner, I’ve noticed a significant rise in questions related to this subject. Based on my analysis of past exams and current trends, I predict that this theme will continue to appear frequently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a relevant question and learn how to craft a high-scoring response.

Analyzing the Question

Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question, while not directly mentioning climate change or freshwater resources, provides an excellent opportunity to discuss these topics within the broader context of environmental issues. Let’s break down the question:

1. It presents two viewpoints on environmental problems:
   • The loss of biodiversity (particular species of plants and animals)
   • Other environmental issues (which can include climate change and its impact on freshwater resources)
2. It asks you to discuss both views
3. It requires you to give your own opinion

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Environmental concerns have become increasingly prevalent in recent years, with debates arising over which issues should take precedence. While some argue that the loss of biodiversity is the most critical problem, others contend that there are more pressing environmental challenges. In my opinion, while biodiversity loss is indeed significant, the broader issue of climate change, particularly its impact on freshwater resources, poses a more urgent threat to our planet’s well-being.

Those who prioritize biodiversity loss argue that the extinction of plant and animal species has far-reaching consequences for ecosystems and human society. Each species plays a unique role in its habitat, and its disappearance can disrupt entire food chains and ecological balances. Moreover, many plant species hold potential for medicinal discoveries, and their loss could deprive humanity of crucial scientific breakthroughs. The extinction of keystone species, such as bees, could have catastrophic effects on agriculture and food security worldwide.

However, I believe that climate change and its cascading effects, especially on freshwater resources, represent a more critical environmental challenge. The alteration of global temperature and precipitation patterns due to climate change directly impacts the availability and quality of freshwater. Rising temperatures lead to increased evaporation, while changing rainfall patterns result in more frequent droughts and floods. These phenomena not only affect human access to clean water but also disrupt aquatic ecosystems, potentially causing even more significant biodiversity loss than direct habitat destruction.

Climate change impact on water resources

Furthermore, the scarcity of freshwater resources exacerbated by climate change has far-reaching societal implications. Water scarcity can lead to conflicts between nations, mass migrations, and economic instability. The World Bank estimates that water scarcity could reduce GDP by up to 6% in some regions by 2050. This economic impact, coupled with potential social unrest, makes addressing climate change and its effects on water resources a paramount concern for global stability and human well-being.

In conclusion, while the loss of biodiversity is undoubtedly a critical environmental issue, I argue that climate change and its impact on freshwater resources represent a more urgent and pervasive threat. Addressing this challenge requires immediate global action to mitigate greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to changing water availability. By focusing on this overarching issue, we may also indirectly address biodiversity loss and other environmental concerns, creating a more holistic approach to environmental protection.

(Word count: 398)

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

There is a debate about which environmental problem is the most important in our time. Some people think that the loss of certain plants and animals is the main issue, while others believe there are more serious environmental problems. In my opinion, while losing species is a big problem, climate change and its effects on our water supply are even more critical.

People who worry about losing plant and animal species have good reasons. Every animal and plant has a job in nature, and when one disappears, it can cause problems for others. For example, if bees die out, many plants won’t get pollinated, which could hurt our food supply. Also, some plants might have medicines we haven’t discovered yet, so losing them could mean missing out on important cures.

However, I think climate change, especially how it affects our freshwater, is a bigger problem. Climate change is making weather patterns change, which affects how much water we have and where it is. Some places are getting too much rain and flooding, while others are having droughts. This is bad for people who need water to drink and grow food, and it’s also hurting animals and plants that live in or near water.

Water scarcity impact on society

The lack of freshwater caused by climate change can also lead to other problems. When there isn’t enough water, countries might fight over it, people might have to move to find water, and it can hurt the economy. For example, farmers might not be able to grow as much food, which could make food prices go up and cause problems for many people.

In conclusion, while losing plant and animal species is a serious problem, I believe that climate change and its effects on our water supply is an even bigger issue. We need to take action now to reduce the causes of climate change and find ways to deal with changes in our water supply. By working on this problem, we might also help solve other environmental issues, including protecting endangered species.

(Word count: 368)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Essay Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, and a conclusion. The higher band essay has more sophisticated paragraph transitions and a more nuanced argument.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “far-reaching consequences,” “cascading effects,” and “pervasive threat.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still incorporates relevant terminology.

3. Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of complex sentence structures, while the Band 6-7 essay uses simpler constructions but maintains grammatical accuracy.

4. Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases to connect ideas, but the Band 8-9 essay does so more subtly and effectively.

5. Task Response: Both essays address all parts of the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more detailed examples and a more developed argument.

Challenging Vocabulary to Remember

1. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
2. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
3. Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/ – the state or process of a species, family, or larger group being or becoming extinct
4. Precipitation (noun) /prɪˌsɪpɪˈteɪʃn/ – rain, snow, sleet, or hail that falls to or condenses on the ground
5. Scarcity (noun) /ˈskeəsəti/ – the state of being scarce or in short supply; shortage
6. Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – make (a problem, bad situation, or negative feeling) worse
7. Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – the action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
8. Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by comprehension of the parts of something as intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole

Conclusion

The Impact Of Climate Change On Freshwater Resources is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By understanding how to approach this subject within the context of broader environmental issues, you can craft a well-structured and persuasive essay. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, focusing on clear argumentation, relevant examples, and appropriate use of vocabulary and grammar.

We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS exam. Additionally, you might want to explore related topics such as how climate change affects water quality or the effects of climate change on freshwater resources to broaden your understanding and vocabulary on this important subject.