Global warming has become an increasingly prevalent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions over the past few years. Based on recent trends, it is highly likely that this theme will continue to appear frequently in future exams. To help you prepare, we have selected a relevant question that closely resembles those seen in actual IELTS tests:
Some people believe that scientists should focus their research on reducing the impacts of global warming. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on whether scientific research should prioritize mitigating the effects of global warming. Key points to consider:
- The topic is the focus of scientific research
- The specific issue is global warming mitigation
- You need to state your level of agreement/disagreement
- You should explain your reasoning and provide examples
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Global warming poses an existential threat to our planet, and I strongly agree that scientists should make it a top priority in their research efforts. The potential consequences of unchecked climate change are so severe that dedicating significant scientific resources to finding solutions is not only justified but essential.
Firstly, the impacts of global warming are already being felt worldwide, from increasingly extreme weather events to rising sea levels threatening coastal communities. By focusing research on mitigating these effects, scientists can help develop strategies to protect vulnerable populations and ecosystems. For example, studies on heat-resistant crops could ensure food security in regions experiencing more frequent droughts, while research into renewable energy technologies could accelerate the transition away from fossil fuels.
Climate Change Research
Moreover, the complexity of climate change demands a multidisciplinary approach that can benefit various fields of scientific inquiry. Research into global warming solutions often leads to innovations with wider applications, fostering technological progress across industries. For instance, advancements in battery technology for electric vehicles can also improve energy storage for renewable power grids, while studies on carbon capture could yield new materials with diverse industrial uses.
However, it is important to note that prioritizing global warming research should not come at the expense of other critical scientific endeavors. A balanced approach is necessary, where climate change mitigation is given prominence while still maintaining support for other essential areas such as medical research and space exploration. The scientific community must strive to allocate resources efficiently to address both immediate and long-term challenges facing humanity.
Diverse Global Challenges
In conclusion, the urgency and far-reaching implications of global warming justify making it a primary focus of scientific research. By doing so, we not only work towards securing a sustainable future for our planet but also drive innovation that can benefit society in numerous ways. It is crucial that we act now to harness the power of science in combating this global threat.
Explanation for Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates excellence in all four marking criteria:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with some less common words and idiomatic expressions.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Various complex structures are used accurately, with only rare minor errors.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
I agree that scientists should focus more on researching ways to reduce global warming impacts. This is because climate change is a big problem that affects everyone on Earth.
One reason why this research is important is that global warming is causing many problems already. For example, we see more extreme weather like hurricanes and floods. If scientists study these issues, they can help find ways to protect people and the environment. They might discover new ways to build stronger houses or create better flood defenses.
Another point is that research on global warming can lead to new technologies. When scientists try to solve climate problems, they often invent things that are useful in other areas too. For instance, work on solar panels for clean energy has made them cheaper and better, which helps many people save money on electricity.
However, I think it’s also important not to forget about other types of scientific research. We still need to study things like curing diseases and exploring space. Scientists should try to balance their work between climate change and other important topics.
In conclusion, I believe that more focus on global warming research is necessary, but it shouldn’t be the only thing scientists study. We need to address climate change urgently, but also keep working on other scientific problems that can help people.
Explanation for Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates good control of language but lacks some of the sophistication of a higher band score:
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Task Response: The main ideas are relevant and developed, but the treatment of the topic is less comprehensive than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the linking between ideas could be more sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but it lacks the precision and uncommon items seen in higher band scores.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used, with generally good control but some errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – to make less severe or serious
- Existential threat (noun phrase) /ˌeɡzɪˈstenʃəl θret/ – a danger that threatens the very existence of something
- Multidisciplinary (adjective) /ˌmʌltɪˈdɪsəplənəri/ – involving several academic disciplines
- Implications (noun) /ˌɪmplɪˈkeɪʃənz/ – possible effects or results of an action
- Allocate (verb) /ˈæləkeɪt/ – to distribute for a particular purpose
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources
- Innovation (noun) /ˌɪnəˈveɪʃən/ – a new method, idea, or product
- Vulnerable (adjective) /ˈvʌlnərəbəl/ – exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed
In conclusion, the topic of global warming and scientific research priorities is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of individual actions vs. government policies in addressing climate change
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
- The importance of international cooperation in tackling global warming
We encourage you to write your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
