Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Climate Change and Ocean Acidification – Sample Essays and Expert Analysis

Climate change and its impact on ocean acidification is a topic of growing concern in environmental science. As an IELTS Writing Task 2 expert, I’ve observed this theme appearing with increasing frequency in recent exams. Given its relevance to global environmental issues, it’s likely to continue being a popular subject in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore this topic through the lens of IELTS Writing Task 2, complete with sample essays and in-depth analysis.

Analyzing the Task 2 Question

For this article, we’ll focus on a question that closely resembles those seen in recent IELTS exams:

Some people believe that climate change and its effects on ocean acidification are exaggerated. Others think it is the most pressing environmental issue of our time. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question falls under the “discuss both views and give your opinion” category, a common format in IELTS Writing Task 2. It requires you to:

1. Explain why some people think climate change and ocean acidification are exaggerated
2. Discuss why others consider it a critical environmental issue
3. Present your personal stance on the matter

Let’s examine two sample essays addressing this question, targeting different band scores.

Climate change impact on ocean

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Climate change and its effects on ocean acidification have become contentious topics in recent years. While some dismiss these concerns as overblown, others argue that they represent the most critical environmental challenge of our era. This essay will explore both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint.

Those who believe the issue is exaggerated often point to historical climate fluctuations as evidence that current changes are part of a natural cycle. They argue that the Earth has experienced warming and cooling periods throughout its history, and that the current trends are not unprecedented. Additionally, some skeptics question the accuracy of climate models and data collection methods, suggesting that predictions of ocean acidification may be based on flawed or incomplete information.

On the other hand, proponents of the view that climate change and ocean acidification are pressing issues cite overwhelming scientific evidence. They argue that the rate of change observed in recent decades far exceeds historical norms, pointing to rapidly rising CO2 levels, global temperature increases, and measurable changes in ocean pH levels. These changes, they contend, pose significant threats to marine ecosystems, potentially disrupting food chains and biodiversity on a global scale.

In my opinion, the evidence supporting the severity of climate change and ocean acidification is compelling and cannot be ignored. While it’s true that the Earth has experienced climate variations in the past, the current rate of change is unprecedented in recent geological history. The potential consequences of inaction – including the loss of coral reefs, disruption of marine food webs, and impacts on coastal communities – are too severe to dismiss.

In conclusion, while skepticism is a valuable part of scientific inquiry, the preponderance of evidence suggests that climate change and ocean acidification are indeed critical issues requiring urgent attention. It is imperative that we take decisive action to mitigate these effects and protect our oceans for future generations.

(Word count: 309)

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Climate change and its effects on ocean acidification are topics that many people disagree about. Some think it’s not as bad as people say, while others believe it’s the biggest environmental problem we face today. In this essay, I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who think climate change and ocean acidification are exaggerated often say that the Earth’s climate has always changed naturally. They point out that there have been warm and cold periods in the past, so they think what’s happening now is just part of that natural cycle. Some also don’t trust the scientific data, saying it might be wrong or incomplete.

On the other hand, many scientists and environmentalists say that climate change and ocean acidification are very serious problems. They have evidence showing that the Earth is warming up faster than ever before, and that the oceans are becoming more acidic. They worry that this will harm sea life and affect people who depend on the ocean for food and jobs.

I think that climate change and ocean acidification are real and serious problems. While it’s true that the Earth’s climate has changed before, it’s happening much faster now because of human activities like burning fossil fuels. We can already see some effects, like coral reefs dying and sea levels rising. I believe we need to take action to protect our planet and oceans.

In conclusion, although some people think climate change and ocean acidification are not big problems, I agree with the scientists who say they are very important issues. We should all try to learn more about these problems and do what we can to help solve them.

(Word count: 276)

Key Considerations When Writing About This Topic

Vocabulary

When discussing climate change and ocean acidification, it’s crucial to use appropriate vocabulary. Here are some key terms to incorporate:

1. Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns.
2. Ocean acidification (noun) /ˈəʊʃən əˌsɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/: The ongoing decrease in the pH levels of the Earth’s oceans.
3. Greenhouse gases (noun) /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ˈɡæsɪz/: Gases that trap heat in the Earth’s atmosphere.
4. Carbon dioxide (CO2) (noun) /ˈkɑːbən daɪˈɒksaɪd/: A primary greenhouse gas contributing to climate change.
5. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A community of living organisms and their environment.
6. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
7. Coral bleaching (noun) /ˈkɒrəl ˈbliːtʃɪŋ/: The process where corals expel algae living in their tissues, causing them to turn white.
8. Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something.

Grammar

To achieve a higher band score, it’s important to demonstrate a range of complex grammatical structures. Here are some examples:

1. Conditional sentences: “If we don’t address climate change, ocean acidification will continue to worsen.”
2. Passive voice: “The effects of climate change are being felt across the globe.”
3. Relative clauses: “Ocean acidification, which is caused by increased CO2 absorption, poses a significant threat to marine ecosystems.”
4. Participle clauses: “Recognizing the urgency of the situation, many countries have implemented stricter environmental regulations.”

Essay Structure

For a “discuss both views and give your opinion” essay:

1. Introduction: Introduce the topic and briefly state the two opposing views.
2. Body Paragraph 1: Discuss the first view (climate change and ocean acidification are exaggerated).
3. Body Paragraph 2: Discuss the second view (it’s the most pressing environmental issue).
4. Body Paragraph 3: Present your opinion with supporting reasons.
5. Conclusion: Summarize your main points and restate your opinion.

Conclusion

Climate change and its effects on ocean acidification is a complex and crucial topic that’s likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

• The role of individual actions versus government policies in combating climate change
• The economic impacts of addressing or ignoring climate change
• The relationship between climate change and extreme weather events

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This active practice will help you refine your skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.

For more insights on related topics, check out our articles on how climate change affects global fisheries and the impact of climate change on global food systems.