The topic of endangered species protection is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on past exam patterns and current environmental concerns, there’s a high probability that questions related to this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that governments should impose stricter laws to protect endangered species. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question addresses a critical global issue and requires test-takers to present a well-structured argument. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Question Analysis
The question asks for your opinion on whether governments should implement stricter laws to protect endangered species. Key points to consider:
- The main topic is endangered species protection.
- The focus is on government action through legislation.
- You need to state your level of agreement or disagreement.
- You should provide reasons and examples to support your stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
IELTS Writing Task 2 Endangered Species
The rapid decline of numerous species across the globe has sparked a heated debate about the role of governments in wildlife conservation. While some argue for stricter legislative measures, I firmly believe that more stringent laws are indeed necessary and should be implemented to protect endangered species.
Firstly, stronger legal frameworks can significantly curb illegal activities that threaten wildlife. Poaching and habitat destruction are major contributors to species extinction, and current laws often lack the teeth to deter such actions effectively. By imposing harsher penalties and increasing enforcement efforts, governments can create a more robust deterrent against these harmful practices. For instance, countries like Kenya have seen a marked decrease in elephant poaching after implementing stricter anti-poaching laws with severe consequences for offenders.
Moreover, stringent regulations can compel industries to adopt more sustainable practices that minimize harm to endangered species. Many businesses prioritize profit over environmental concerns, leading to habitat loss and pollution that directly impact vulnerable species. By mandating stricter environmental impact assessments and requiring companies to implement conservation measures, governments can ensure that economic development does not come at the cost of biodiversity. The success of the US Endangered Species Act in protecting the bald eagle by regulating pesticide use demonstrates the potential of such legislative approaches.
However, it is crucial to acknowledge that laws alone are not sufficient. They must be complemented by comprehensive conservation strategies that include public education, habitat restoration, and international cooperation. Governments should allocate resources for research and conservation projects while also fostering partnerships with NGOs and local communities. Additionally, raising awareness about the importance of biodiversity can garner public support for conservation efforts and encourage individual actions that contribute to species protection.
In conclusion, while stricter laws are essential in safeguarding endangered species, they should be part of a multifaceted approach to conservation. By combining robust legislation with education and community involvement, governments can create a more effective framework for protecting our planet’s vulnerable wildlife. The urgency of the situation demands immediate and decisive action to prevent further loss of biodiversity.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay clearly addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed argument with relevant examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphing is appropriate, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex ideas are expressed with precision.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly to convey subtle meanings.
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Development of Ideas: Each main point is thoroughly elaborated with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Many people think that governments should make stricter laws to protect animals that are in danger of dying out. I agree with this idea because I believe it’s important to save these animals.
One reason why stricter laws are needed is to stop people from killing endangered animals. Some people hunt these animals for their fur or other parts, which is a big problem. If the government makes stronger laws and punishes people more for doing this, it might stop them from killing these animals. For example, in some countries where they made the laws tougher, fewer elephants are being killed for their tusks.
Another reason is that stricter laws can help protect the places where endangered animals live. Many times, forests and other natural areas are destroyed to build houses or factories. This leaves animals with nowhere to live. If there are stronger laws about cutting down trees or building in certain areas, it can help keep these places safe for animals. In Brazil, for instance, when they made stricter laws about cutting down the Amazon rainforest, it helped protect many endangered species.
However, just making laws is not enough. Governments also need to teach people why it’s important to protect these animals. They should also give money to help take care of endangered animals and the places they live. If people understand why these animals are important, they might be more careful about hurting them or their homes.
In conclusion, I think stricter laws are a good idea to protect endangered species, but they should be part of a bigger plan that includes education and other ways to help these animals. It’s important to act now before more animals disappear forever.
(Word count: 292)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates competence in several areas but lacks the sophistication of a higher band score:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate for the task, but there is limited evidence of less common lexical items.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with relevant examples, but the level of detail and explanation is not as thorough as in higher band essays.
Key Vocabulary
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Endangered species (noun) /ɪnˈdeɪndʒərd ˈspiːʃiːz/ – Animals or plants that are at risk of extinction.
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.
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Poaching (noun) /ˈpəʊtʃɪŋ/ – The illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals.
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Habitat destruction (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪˈstrʌkʃn/ – The process by which natural environments are damaged or destroyed.
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Stringent (adjective) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – Strict, severe, or rigid.
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Legislation (noun) /ˌledʒɪsˈleɪʃn/ – Laws, considered collectively.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
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Biodiversity loss (noun phrase) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti lɒs/ – The decrease in the variety of living species in a particular habitat or on Earth overall.
Conclusion
Protecting endangered species is a critical global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2. To excel in this topic, focus on developing a clear argument, using relevant examples, and demonstrating a range of vocabulary related to conservation and environmental protection. Practice writing essays on similar topics such as:
- The role of individuals in protecting endangered species
- Balancing economic development with wildlife conservation
- The importance of international cooperation in preserving biodiversity
Remember to structure your essay well, use a variety of sentence structures, and incorporate topic-specific vocabulary. As a practice exercise, try writing your own essay on the given question and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active approach to learning can significantly improve your IELTS Writing skills.
