IELTS Writing Task 2: Mastering the Impact of Climate Change on Marine Ecosystems – Sample Essays for Band 6-7 and 8-9

Climate change and its effects on marine ecosystems have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends and the growing global concern for environmental issues, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear frequently in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests and craft sample essays to help you prepare effectively.

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 directly relates to The Impact Of Climate Change On Marine Ecosystems, as the loss of species is a significant consequence of environmental changes. Let’s break down the key elements:

1. Two viewpoints are presented:
   • The main environmental problem is the loss of specific plant and animal species.
   • There are more important environmental problems.
2. You need to discuss both views.
3. You should provide your own opinion.

Sample Essay for Band 6-7

Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:

In recent years, environmental issues have become a major concern worldwide. While some people believe that the extinction of certain plant and animal species is the most critical environmental problem, others argue that there are more pressing matters to address. This essay will discuss both perspectives before presenting my own view.

On one hand, those who prioritize the loss of species have valid reasons for their concern. The disappearance of plants and animals can disrupt entire ecosystems, leading to unforeseen consequences. For example, the decline of bee populations threatens not only honey production but also the pollination of many crops essential for human food supply. Additionally, biodiversity loss may deprive us of potential medical discoveries, as many medicines are derived from plants and animals.

On the other hand, proponents of the opposing view argue that other environmental issues deserve more attention. They point to problems such as climate change, air and water pollution, and deforestation as more urgent threats to the planet’s health. These issues affect not only specific species but also human populations and the entire global ecosystem. For instance, rising sea levels due to climate change endanger coastal communities and marine habitats alike, making it a more comprehensive problem.

In my opinion, while the loss of species is undoubtedly a serious issue, it is often a symptom of larger environmental problems. I believe that addressing overarching issues like climate change and pollution will indirectly help preserve endangered species and their habitats. By focusing on these root causes, we can create a more holistic approach to environmental protection.

In conclusion, both viewpoints have merit, but I believe that tackling broader environmental challenges is more crucial. By addressing these fundamental issues, we can hope to mitigate species loss and protect the planet’s biodiversity as a whole.

(Word count: 292)

Marine ecosystem affected by climate change

Sample Essay for Band 8-9

Now, let’s look at a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:

The debate over which environmental issue should be considered the most critical of our time has intensified in recent years. While some argue that the loss of particular plant and animal species is the primary concern, others contend that there are more pressing environmental problems to address. This essay will examine both perspectives before offering a nuanced view on this complex issue.

Those who prioritize the loss of biodiversity argue that the extinction of species represents an irreversible tragedy with far-reaching consequences. The intricate web of life on Earth depends on the delicate balance between various species, and the loss of even a single species can trigger a cascade of ecological disruptions. For instance, the decline of keystone species like sea otters in marine ecosystems can lead to the overgrowth of sea urchins, which in turn decimates kelp forests – crucial habitats for numerous other species. Moreover, biodiversity loss threatens potential scientific breakthroughs, as many medical advancements and technological innovations draw inspiration from nature’s diverse forms and functions.

Conversely, proponents of the alternative view argue that more encompassing environmental issues demand our immediate attention. They point to climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction as problems that not only contribute to species loss but also pose existential threats to human civilization and the planet as a whole. The far-reaching impacts of climate change, such as rising sea levels, extreme weather events, and ocean acidification, affect entire ecosystems and human societies alike. Furthermore, addressing these overarching issues could indirectly mitigate biodiversity loss by preserving habitats and stabilizing environmental conditions.

In my view, it is crucial to recognize the interconnectedness of environmental challenges rather than treating them as isolated problems. While the loss of species is indeed a grave concern, it is often a symptom of broader environmental degradation. A holistic approach that targets the root causes of environmental damage – such as unsustainable resource exploitation, pollution, and greenhouse gas emissions – would be more effective in preserving biodiversity and addressing other ecological issues simultaneously.

In conclusion, while the extinction of species is a significant problem, I believe that focusing on the underlying causes of environmental degradation is more crucial. By adopting a comprehensive strategy that addresses climate change, pollution, and habitat destruction, we can hope to safeguard biodiversity while also tackling other pressing environmental challenges. This integrated approach is essential for ensuring the long-term health and resilience of our planet’s ecosystems.

(Word count: 398)

Key Points to Remember When Writing

1. Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs discussing each viewpoint, the writer’s opinion, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.

2. Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “intricate web of life,” “cascade of ecological disruptions,” and “existential threats.” It also employs more precise language throughout.

3. Grammar: Both essays use a variety of sentence structures, but the Band 8-9 essay demonstrates more complex constructions and better use of linking words and phrases.

4. Task Response: The Band 8-9 essay provides a more nuanced and thoughtful response to the question, showing a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of environmental issues.

5. Examples: Both essays use examples, but the Band 8-9 essay’s examples are more specific and effectively support the arguments.

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 ceasing to exist
4. Habitat destruction (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪˈstrʌkʃn/ – the process by which natural habitat is damaged or destroyed to the point that it is no longer capable of supporting the species and ecological communities that naturally occur there
5. Ocean acidification (noun phrase) /ˈəʊʃn əˌsɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/ – the ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earth’s oceans, caused by the uptake of carbon dioxide from the atmosphere
6. Keystone species (noun phrase) /ˈkiːstəʊn ˈspiːʃiːz/ – a species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend, such that if it were removed the ecosystem would change drastically
7. Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – the capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness
8. Holistic (adjective) /həˈlɪstɪk/ – characterized by the belief that the parts of something are intimately interconnected and explicable only by reference to the whole

In conclusion, mastering the art of writing about the impact of climate change on marine ecosystems for IELTS Task 2 requires a deep understanding of environmental issues, strong language skills, and the ability to present a well-structured argument. Practice writing essays on this topic and related themes, such as the effects of climate change on food supply chains or the importance of protecting biodiversity in the face of climate change. You may encounter questions asking about specific aspects of marine ecosystem degradation, solutions to environmental problems, or the balance between economic development and environmental protection.

To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay based on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your writing and receive valuable feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.