Climate-related natural disasters have become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. This subject has appeared multiple times in recent years, reflecting its growing global significance. As climate change continues to impact our world, it’s likely that questions related to natural disasters and their management will feature prominently in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore this topic in depth, focusing on how to craft a high-scoring essay.
Analyzing the Essay Question
Some people think that governments and individuals should not spend money on protecting and preserving animals and plants that are facing extinction due to climate-related natural disasters. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question touches on a complex and controversial issue. It requires you to consider the value of biodiversity conservation in the face of climate-related challenges. Let’s break down the key elements:
- The main topic: Spending money on protecting endangered species
- The context: Climate-related natural disasters
- The task: Express your opinion on whether this spending is justified
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
Climate change has led to an unprecedented increase in natural disasters, threatening countless species with extinction. While some argue that governments and individuals should not allocate resources to protect these endangered plants and animals, I strongly disagree with this view. I believe that investing in the preservation of biodiversity is not only ethically imperative but also crucial for maintaining ecological balance and human well-being.
Firstly, every species plays a vital role in its ecosystem, and the loss of even one can have far-reaching consequences. For instance, the decline of bee populations due to climate-related factors has already begun to affect crop pollination, threatening global food security. By protecting endangered species, we safeguard the intricate web of life that sustains our planet. Moreover, many plants and animals hold potential for scientific and medical breakthroughs. The loss of biodiversity could deprive us of undiscovered cures for diseases or innovative solutions to environmental challenges.
Secondly, preserving endangered species is an investment in our own future. Many communities depend on local flora and fauna for their livelihoods, whether through eco-tourism, traditional medicines, or sustainable harvesting. By protecting these species, we also protect human cultures and economies that have coevolved with them. Furthermore, diverse ecosystems are more resilient to climate change, providing natural buffers against extreme weather events and helping to mitigate the very disasters that threaten them.
Critics may argue that funds spent on species conservation could be better used for immediate human needs or disaster relief. However, this view is short-sighted. The cost of losing biodiversity far outweighs the investment required to protect it. Additionally, conservation efforts often align with broader climate adaptation strategies, such as preserving forests that act as carbon sinks and protect against flooding.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that governments and individuals have a responsibility to invest in protecting endangered species, especially in the face of climate-related disasters. This investment is not just about saving plants and animals; it’s about securing a sustainable and resilient future for all life on Earth. As we face the challenges of climate change, preserving biodiversity must be seen as an essential part of our adaptive strategy, not an optional luxury.
(Word count: 367)
Band 6-7 Essay
In recent years, climate change has caused many natural disasters that have put many animals and plants at risk of extinction. Some people think we should not spend money to protect these species. However, I disagree with this opinion and believe we should invest in preserving endangered wildlife.
Firstly, every animal and plant has a role in nature. If we lose one species, it can affect the whole ecosystem. For example, if bees die out because of climate change, many plants won’t be pollinated, which could lead to food shortages for humans and other animals. By protecting endangered species, we’re also protecting ourselves and our food supply.
Secondly, many endangered plants and animals could be useful for medicine or science in the future. If we let them go extinct, we might lose potential cures for diseases or miss out on learning important things about nature. For instance, some rare plants in the Amazon rainforest have been found to have cancer-fighting properties. If we don’t protect these plants, we might lose these valuable resources.
Some people might say that we should use the money to help people affected by natural disasters instead. While this is important too, I think we can do both. Protecting nature can also help prevent disasters. For example, preserving mangrove forests can protect coastal areas from storms and flooding.
In conclusion, I believe it’s very important for governments and individuals to spend money on protecting endangered species, even when facing climate-related disasters. This investment is not just for the animals and plants, but for our own future too. We need to find a balance between helping people and protecting nature because they are connected.
(Word count: 283)
Key Writing Tips
Understand the question: Always start by carefully analyzing the prompt. In this case, you need to express your opinion on a controversial topic.
Structure your essay: Use a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Each body paragraph should focus on a main idea supported by examples.
Use appropriate language: For a Band 8-9 essay, use sophisticated vocabulary and complex sentence structures. For a Band 6-7 essay, focus on clear communication with some variety in language.
Develop ideas fully: Provide explanations and examples for each point you make. The Band 8-9 essay demonstrates this with detailed examples and broader implications.
Stay on topic: Ensure all your points relate directly to the question. Both sample essays maintain focus on the issue of protecting endangered species in the context of climate-related disasters.
Use cohesive devices: Connect your ideas smoothly using transitional phrases and cohesive language.
Conclude effectively: Summarize your main points and restate your position in the conclusion.
Vocabulary to Remember
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/: The state or process of a species ceasing to exist.
Resilient (adjective) /rɪˈzɪliənt/: Able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
Adaptive strategy (noun phrase) /əˈdæptɪv ˈstrætədʒi/: A plan or method for adjusting to new conditions or circumstances.
Carbon sink (noun) /ˈkɑːbən sɪŋk/: A forest, ocean, or other natural environment viewed in terms of its ability to absorb carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Climate Change Impact
Conclusion
Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2 essays on climate-related natural disasters and their impact on biodiversity requires a deep understanding of the issue, strong analytical skills, and the ability to express complex ideas clearly. By studying the sample essays and following the writing tips provided, you can improve your ability to tackle this challenging topic.
Remember, practice is key to improving your writing skills. Try writing your own essay on this topic, incorporating the vocabulary and structures you’ve learned. Feel free to share your practice essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you prepare more effectively for your IELTS exam.
For further practice, consider exploring related topics such as the economic impact of climate change, global migration patterns due to environmental factors, or strategies for community resilience in the face of natural disasters. These interconnected issues are likely to feature in future IELTS exams and will broaden your understanding of this critical global challenge.