Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Deforestation’s Impact on Biodiversity

Deforestation and its effects on biodiversity is a critical environmental topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and the growing global concern for environmental issues, we can expect this theme to continue being a popular choice for IELTS examiners. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and is likely to resurface in various forms:

Some people believe that deforestation is necessary for economic development, while others argue that it has devastating effects on biodiversity. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that deforestation is necessary for economic development
2. Explore the opposing view that deforestation severely impacts biodiversity
3. Present and justify their own opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring example.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

The debate between economic progress and environmental conservation has long been a contentious issue, with deforestation at its core. While some argue that clearing forests is essential for economic growth, others contend that it poses a severe threat to biodiversity. In my opinion, while short-term economic gains from deforestation may seem attractive, the long-term consequences on biodiversity far outweigh these benefits.

Proponents of deforestation often cite economic necessity as their primary argument. They contend that clearing forests provides land for agriculture, urban development, and resource extraction, all of which contribute to economic growth. For instance, countries like Brazil have historically relied on deforestation to expand their agricultural frontiers, particularly for soybean production and cattle ranching. This has undeniably boosted their GDP and provided employment opportunities for many.

However, the opposing view emphasizes the devastating impact of deforestation on biodiversity. Forests are home to countless species of flora and fauna, many of which are yet to be discovered. The destruction of these habitats leads to species extinction, disrupts ecological balance, and contributes to climate change. The Amazon rainforest, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” is a prime example where deforestation has led to a significant loss of biodiversity and affected global climate patterns.

In my view, the argument for biodiversity conservation is more compelling. While economic development is crucial, it should not come at the expense of irreplaceable ecosystems. The loss of biodiversity can have far-reaching consequences, including the disruption of food chains, loss of potential medicinal plants, and increased vulnerability to natural disasters. Moreover, recent studies have shown that intact forests provide substantial economic value through ecosystem services such as carbon sequestration, water regulation, and ecotourism.

Instead of viewing forest conservation as an obstacle to development, we should seek sustainable alternatives. Investments in green technologies, sustainable agriculture practices, and eco-friendly urban planning can provide economic growth without compromising our natural heritage. Countries like Costa Rica have successfully demonstrated that protecting biodiversity can coexist with and even drive economic prosperity.

In conclusion, while the economic arguments for deforestation cannot be dismissed outright, the irreversible damage to biodiversity poses a far greater long-term threat to our planet and, by extension, to our economic future. It is imperative that we find a balance between development and conservation, prioritizing sustainable practices that protect our invaluable biodiversity.

(Word count: 398)

Deforestation Impact on Biodiversity

Essay Analysis

This essay would likely score in the Band 8-9 range due to several key factors:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “However,” “Moreover,” “Instead of”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay demonstrates a wide range of vocabulary used accurately and appropriately (e.g., “contentious,” “irreplaceable ecosystems,” “far-reaching consequences”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. There are no noticeable errors, and the sentence structures are varied.

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Deforestation is a topic that many people have different opinions about. Some think it’s necessary for countries to develop their economies, while others believe it’s very bad for the environment and animals. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.

People who support deforestation say it helps the economy grow. When forests are cut down, the land can be used for farming or building new cities. This creates jobs and makes money for the country. For example, in some parts of South America, they cut down forests to grow crops like soybeans, which they can sell to other countries.

On the other hand, many people argue that deforestation is very harmful to biodiversity. Forests are home to many different types of plants and animals. When we cut down trees, these animals lose their homes, and some might even die out completely. This is especially bad in places like the Amazon rainforest, where there are many unique species that can’t be found anywhere else in the world.

In my opinion, I think protecting biodiversity is more important than cutting down forests for money. While it’s true that countries need to develop their economies, I believe there are other ways to do this without destroying nature. For example, countries could focus on developing green technologies or promoting ecotourism, which can create jobs and make money without cutting down forests.

Also, forests are important for the whole world, not just the countries they’re in. They help clean the air and stop climate change from getting worse. If we lose too many forests, it could cause big problems for everyone in the future.

To conclude, while I understand that some people think deforestation is necessary for economic reasons, I believe the negative effects on biodiversity are too serious to ignore. We should find ways to develop our economies that don’t harm the environment so much. This way, we can have both economic growth and protect nature at the same time.

(Word count: 329)

Essay Analysis

This essay would likely score in the Band 6-7 range for the following reasons:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating a clear opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Some cohesive devices are used, but not always with full flexibility.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempt at using less common words (e.g., “biodiversity,” “ecotourism”). However, the range is more limited compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede communication.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is not as extensive as in the higher band essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Deforestation (noun) – /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/ – the action of clearing a wide area of trees
2. Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
3. Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
4. Sustainability (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level
5. Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment and of wildlife
6. Habitat (noun) – /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism
7. Ecotourism (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments, intended to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife
8. Carbon sequestration (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən siːˌkwestreɪʃn/ – the process of capturing and storing atmospheric carbon dioxide
9. Species extinction (noun) – /ˈspiːʃiːz ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/ – the complete disappearance of a species from Earth
10. Ecological balance (noun) – /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈbæləns/ – a state of dynamic equilibrium within a community of organisms in which genetic, species and ecosystem diversity remain relatively stable

Conclusion

The topic of deforestation and its impact on biodiversity is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

1. The role of governments in protecting forests and biodiversity
2. The balance between economic development and environmental conservation
3. The global consequences of local deforestation
4. Sustainable alternatives to deforestation for economic growth

Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary and complex sentences, and fully develop your ideas with relevant examples. Practice writing your own essay on this topic and consider sharing it in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.