Climate change is a pressing global issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on past exam trends and the growing importance of this topic, it’s highly likely that you’ll encounter a question about international cooperation to combat climate change. Let’s explore this topic with sample essays for different band scores, along with detailed analyses to help you excel in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Analyzing the Task 2 Question
Let’s consider the following question, which is representative of the type you might encounter in your IELTS exam:
Some people believe that countries should work together to tackle climate change, while others think each country should deal with it independently. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question asks you to:
- Discuss the view that countries should collaborate to address climate change
- Discuss the view that countries should handle climate change independently
- Provide your own opinion on the matter
Remember to address all parts of the question in your essay to achieve a high score.
Global climate change collaboration
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most pressing issues facing our planet today, and there is considerable debate about how best to address this global challenge. While some argue that countries should work independently to combat climate change, I firmly believe that international cooperation is essential for effective action.
Those who advocate for independent action argue that each country has unique circumstances and should tailor its approach accordingly. They contend that national governments are best positioned to understand their own economic constraints, geographical vulnerabilities, and social priorities. For instance, a small island nation might prioritize sea level rise mitigation, while a landlocked country might focus on drought resistance. This perspective also emphasizes the importance of national sovereignty and the ability of countries to make decisions that align with their specific interests.
However, the argument for international collaboration is compelling and, in my opinion, crucial for meaningful progress. Climate change is a global phenomenon that does not respect national borders. Greenhouse gas emissions from one country affect the entire planet, making it impossible for any nation to fully address the issue in isolation. Collaborative efforts allow for the sharing of resources, technology, and expertise, which is particularly beneficial for developing countries that may lack the means to implement effective climate policies independently. Moreover, unified global action can create economies of scale in green technologies, making sustainable solutions more affordable and accessible worldwide.
International cooperation also enables the establishment of binding agreements and mutual accountability. The Paris Agreement, for example, demonstrates how countries can come together to set shared goals and hold each other responsible for meeting them. Such frameworks create a sense of global commitment and can drive more ambitious climate action than would be possible through individual efforts alone.
In conclusion, while there is merit in tailoring climate strategies to national contexts, I strongly believe that the global nature of climate change necessitates a coordinated international response. Only through collective action can we hope to address this existential threat effectively and ensure a sustainable future for all nations.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay would likely score in the Band 8-9 range for the following reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “However,” “Moreover,” “For instance”).
Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “pressing issues,” “national sovereignty,” “economies of scale”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately (e.g., “While some argue that…,” “Those who advocate for…”).
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with explanations and examples.
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a sample essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Climate change is a big problem in the world today. Some people think countries should work together to solve it, while others believe each country should handle it on their own. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
There are some good reasons why countries might want to deal with climate change by themselves. Each country has its own unique problems and resources. For example, a country with a lot of coal might find it harder to switch to clean energy compared to a country with many rivers for hydropower. Also, some countries might want to protect their industries and jobs, so they don’t want other countries telling them what to do.
On the other hand, working together has many benefits. Climate change affects everyone, no matter where they live. If only some countries try to reduce pollution, it won’t be enough to solve the problem. When countries cooperate, they can share new technologies and ideas. Rich countries can help poor countries get clean energy. Also, when countries make agreements together, like the Paris Agreement, they can encourage each other to do better.
In my opinion, I think it’s better for countries to work together on climate change. It’s such a big problem that no country can fix it alone. We need everyone to do their part to make a real difference. While each country might have some special things to consider, the overall goal of saving the planet is the same for everyone.
To conclude, although there are reasons for countries to work independently on climate change, I believe cooperation is more important. Only by working together can we hope to solve this global problem and protect the Earth for future generations.
(Word count: 276)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range for the following reasons:
Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the question, though the discussion of each view is less developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but uses simpler linking words and phrases (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Also”).
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay (e.g., “big problem,” “clean energy”).
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but with less depth and precision than the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Climate change (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ – Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
- Global phenomenon (noun phrase) /ˈɡləʊbəl fəˈnɒmɪnən/ – An event or trend that occurs worldwide
- Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/ – The action of working with someone to produce something
- Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
- Sovereignty (noun) /ˈsɒvrənti/ – Supreme power or authority
- Accountability (noun) /əˌkaʊntəˈbɪləti/ – The fact or condition of being accountable; responsibility
- Binding agreement (noun phrase) /ˈbaɪndɪŋ əˈɡriːmənt/ – A contract or agreement that is legally enforceable
- Economies of scale (noun phrase) /ɪˈkɒnəmiz əv skeɪl/ – The cost advantages that enterprises obtain due to their scale of operation
- Existential threat (noun phrase) /ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃəl θret/ – A threat to something’s very existence
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
Conclusion
The topic of international cooperation in combating climate change is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of developed countries in helping developing nations address climate change
- The balance between economic growth and environmental protection
- The effectiveness of international climate agreements
- The impact of individual actions versus government policies in fighting climate change
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 improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.
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