Climate change and its effects on ecosystems have become increasingly prominent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2. As an experienced IELTS instructor, I’ve observed a rising trend in questions related to this theme. Based on my analysis of past exams and current environmental concerns, I predict that this topic will continue to be a frequent subject in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a relevant question and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that climate change is the biggest threat to ecosystems, while others think human activities such as deforestation and pollution are more harmful. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question asks you to consider two perspectives on threats to ecosystems: climate change and direct human activities. It’s crucial to address both viewpoints and clearly state your own opinion. Let’s break down the key elements:
- Climate change as the biggest threat
- Human activities (deforestation and pollution) as more harmful
- Discuss both views
- Provide your opinion
Now, let’s look at two sample essays targeting different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Climate change and direct human activities are often cited as the primary threats to global ecosystems. While both factors undeniably contribute to environmental degradation, I believe that climate change poses a more significant and far-reaching danger to the world’s ecosystems.
Those who argue that human activities such as deforestation and pollution are more harmful to ecosystems have valid concerns. Deforestation directly destroys habitats, displacing countless species and disrupting local ecosystems. Similarly, pollution from industrial processes and waste mismanagement can have immediate and visible impacts on air, water, and soil quality, leading to the decline of various plant and animal species. These direct human activities often result in tangible and localized environmental damage that is easier to observe and quantify.
However, I contend that climate change represents a more severe threat to ecosystems on a global scale. The far-reaching effects of climate change can alter entire biomes, affecting countless ecosystems simultaneously. Rising temperatures lead to shifting precipitation patterns, more frequent and intense natural disasters, and changes in species’ geographic ranges. These effects can disrupt food chains, alter migration patterns, and even cause entire ecosystems to collapse. Moreover, climate change exacerbates the impacts of direct human activities, creating a feedback loop that amplifies environmental degradation.
Climate change impact on ecosystems
The global nature of climate change makes it a more challenging threat to address. While localized efforts can mitigate the effects of deforestation and pollution in specific areas, climate change requires coordinated international action to combat effectively. The long-term and often irreversible consequences of climate change, such as sea-level rise and ocean acidification, pose existential threats to entire ecosystems, particularly in vulnerable regions like coral reefs and polar habitats.
In conclusion, while both climate change and direct human activities significantly threaten ecosystems, I believe that climate change represents the more severe and pervasive danger. Its global scope, long-term impacts, and ability to exacerbate other environmental issues make it the most pressing concern for the preservation of the world’s ecosystems. Addressing climate change should be our top priority in environmental conservation efforts.
(Word count: 377)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
There is a debate about what is the biggest threat to ecosystems. Some people think it is climate change, while others believe human activities like cutting down forests and pollution are worse. In my opinion, both are serious problems, but climate change is the bigger threat overall.
People who say human activities are more harmful have some good points. When we cut down forests, we destroy the homes of many animals and plants. This can cause some species to die out. Pollution from factories and cars also hurts the environment. It makes the air and water dirty, which is bad for living things. These problems are easy to see and understand.
However, I think climate change is an even bigger problem for ecosystems. Climate change affects the whole world, not just one place. It makes the weather different, causing things like more storms and hotter temperatures. This can change where animals and plants can live. Some animals might not be able to find food or survive in their usual homes because of these changes. Climate change also makes the oceans warmer and more acidic, which is very bad for sea life.
Another reason why climate change is worse is that it’s harder to stop. We can plant trees to replace forests and clean up pollution in some places. But climate change affects the whole planet, and it’s not easy to fix. It needs all countries to work together, which is difficult. The effects of climate change can last for a very long time, even hundreds of years.
In conclusion, while both climate change and human activities like deforestation and pollution are bad for ecosystems, I believe climate change is the bigger threat. It affects more places, is harder to stop, and can have very long-lasting effects. We need to focus on solving climate change to protect our ecosystems.
(Word count: 309)
Key Writing Tips
When tackling this topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, keep these points in mind:
Structure: Ensure a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both viewpoints, and a conclusion stating your opinion.
Vocabulary: Use a range of environmental terms accurately. For band 8-9, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary and phrases.
Grammar: Employ a variety of sentence structures. Higher band scores require more complex sentences and perfect grammar.
Coherence: Use linking words and phrases to connect ideas smoothly.
Development: Provide specific examples and explanations to support your points.
Essential Vocabulary
Here are some key terms to remember when writing about climate change and ecosystems:
Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A community of living organisms and their environment.
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat.
Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/: The action of clearing a wide area of trees.
Habitat loss (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt lɒs/: The destruction of natural environments where species live.
Ocean acidification (noun phrase) /ˈəʊʃn əˌsɪdɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/: The ongoing decrease in the pH of the Earth’s oceans.
Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something.
Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/: The process of change by which an organism becomes better suited to its environment.
Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
Carbon footprint (noun phrase) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of human activities.
Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
Conclusion
The impact of climate change on ecosystems is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the key issues and practicing with sample essays like those provided, you can improve your ability to address this subject effectively. Remember to analyze the question carefully, structure your essay logically, and use appropriate vocabulary and grammar.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of individual actions in mitigating climate change
- Government policies to protect endangered ecosystems
- The economic impact of ecosystem preservation efforts
I encourage you to write your own essay based on the question discussed in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you refine your skills and prepare for success in your IELTS Writing Task 2.