Climate change and its effects on global agriculture have become increasingly prevalent topics in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing importance of environmental issues, it’s highly likely that questions related to this theme will continue to appear frequently in future tests. To help you prepare, we’ve selected a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and closely reflects the types of questions you might encounter on this subject.
Let’s analyze the following question and explore sample essays for different band scores:
Climate change is having a significant impact on agriculture worldwide. What are the main effects of this, and what solutions can you suggest to deal with these problems?
Question Analysis
This question is a classic problem-solution type, commonly found in IELTS Writing Task 2. It can be broken down into two main parts:
- Identify the main effects of climate change on agriculture globally.
- Suggest solutions to address these problems.
To answer this question effectively, you need to:
- Clearly state the main effects of climate change on agriculture
- Provide specific examples or explanations for each effect
- Offer practical and relevant solutions
- Ensure a balanced discussion of both effects and solutions
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a Band 8 response.
Band 8 Sample Essay
Climate change is undeniably altering the face of global agriculture, with far-reaching consequences for food security and the livelihoods of farmers worldwide. This essay will discuss the primary effects of this phenomenon and propose potential solutions to mitigate its impact.
The most significant effects of climate change on agriculture are twofold. Firstly, shifting weather patterns and increased frequency of extreme events such as droughts, floods, and heatwaves are causing crop failures and reducing yields. For instance, prolonged droughts in California have severely affected fruit and vegetable production, while unpredictable monsoons in India have led to widespread crop losses. Secondly, rising temperatures are altering the geographical distribution of crops and pests, forcing farmers to adapt their practices or face diminishing returns. This is evident in the northward migration of wine grape cultivation in Europe and the spread of tropical crop diseases to previously temperate regions.
To address these challenges, a multi-faceted approach is necessary. One solution is to invest in research and development of climate-resilient crop varieties that can withstand extreme weather conditions and adapt to changing environments. For example, drought-resistant maize varieties have shown promising results in Africa. Additionally, implementing advanced irrigation systems and water management techniques can help conserve water resources and improve crop resilience during dry periods. Israel’s drip irrigation technology, for instance, has dramatically increased water efficiency in arid regions.
Another crucial solution is to promote sustainable farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health. This includes encouraging crop rotation, minimal tillage, and the use of cover crops to enhance soil fertility and carbon sequestration. Furthermore, governments should incentivize farmers to adopt these practices through subsidies and education programs, ensuring a wider implementation of climate-smart agriculture.
In conclusion, while climate change poses significant threats to global agriculture, there are viable solutions that can help mitigate its impact. By investing in resilient crop varieties, improving water management, and promoting sustainable farming practices, we can work towards a more secure and sustainable food future. It is imperative that these solutions are implemented swiftly and on a global scale to address this pressing issue effectively.
(Word count: 345)
Climate change effects on global agriculture infographic
Band 8 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates excellent command of the English language and addresses all parts of the question comprehensively, warranting a Band 8 score. Here’s why:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses both parts of the question, discussing the main effects of climate change on agriculture and proposing relevant solutions.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a variety of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “Firstly,” “Secondly,” “Additionally,” “Furthermore”).
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Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated uses (e.g., “far-reaching consequences,” “mitigate its impact,” “geographical distribution”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and appropriately (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional structures).
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Development and Support: Each main point is well-developed with specific examples and explanations, demonstrating in-depth understanding of the topic.
Now, let’s examine a Band 7 sample essay on the same topic.
Band 7 Sample Essay
Climate change is having a profound impact on agriculture worldwide, affecting food production and farmers’ livelihoods. This essay will discuss the main effects of this phenomenon and suggest some solutions to address these issues.
One of the primary effects of climate change on agriculture is the increase in extreme weather events. Droughts, floods, and heatwaves are becoming more frequent and intense, leading to crop failures and reduced yields. For example, severe droughts in Australia have significantly impacted wheat production in recent years. Another major effect is the change in growing seasons and crop distribution. As temperatures rise, some regions are becoming unsuitable for certain crops, while others are experiencing longer growing seasons. This shift is forcing farmers to adapt their practices or switch to different crops altogether.
To tackle these problems, several solutions can be implemented. Firstly, investing in climate-resistant crop varieties could help farmers cope with changing conditions. Scientists are developing crops that can withstand higher temperatures and require less water. Secondly, improving irrigation systems and water management is crucial. Techniques such as drip irrigation can help conserve water and ensure crops receive adequate hydration even during dry periods.
Another solution is to promote sustainable farming practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions and improve soil health. This includes encouraging crop rotation, minimal tillage, and the use of organic fertilizers. Additionally, governments should provide support and incentives for farmers to adopt these practices, such as offering subsidies or tax breaks for implementing climate-smart agriculture techniques.
In conclusion, while climate change poses significant challenges to global agriculture, there are viable solutions that can help mitigate its impact. By developing resilient crops, improving water management, and promoting sustainable farming practices, we can work towards ensuring food security in the face of a changing climate.
(Word count: 294)
Band 7 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates a good command of English and addresses the task well, justifying a Band 7 score. Here’s why:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses both parts of the question, discussing effects and solutions. However, the development is slightly less thorough than the Band 8 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and uses cohesive devices effectively, though less varied than the Band 8 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The essay uses a good range of vocabulary with some flexibility and precision (e.g., “profound impact,” “extreme weather events,” “climate-resistant crop varieties”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with good control and accuracy.
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Development and Support: Main points are supported with examples, though not as extensively as in the Band 8 essay.
Now, let’s look at a Band 6 sample essay on the same topic.
Band 6 Sample Essay
Climate change is affecting agriculture all over the world. This essay will talk about the main effects of this problem and some solutions to deal with it.
One big effect of climate change on agriculture is more extreme weather. There are more droughts, floods, and heat waves happening. This makes it hard for farmers to grow crops. For example, some places don’t get enough rain, so plants die. Another effect is that some places can’t grow the same crops as before because the weather is changing. Farmers have to learn to grow different plants or move to new areas.
To solve these problems, we can do a few things. First, scientists should make new types of plants that can survive in hotter weather and with less water. This will help farmers keep growing food even when the weather is bad. Also, we need better ways to use water for farming. Things like drip irrigation can help save water and keep plants alive when it’s dry.
Another solution is to teach farmers new ways to farm that are better for the environment. This includes things like rotating crops and using less chemicals. The government should help farmers learn these new methods and give them money to start using them.
In conclusion, climate change is causing big problems for agriculture, but there are ways to help. By making stronger plants, using water better, and teaching farmers new methods, we can try to keep growing enough food for everyone.
(Word count: 249)
Band 6 Essay Analysis
This essay demonstrates an adequate command of English and addresses the task, justifying a Band 6 score. Here’s why:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses both parts of the question, but the ideas are less fully developed compared to higher band scores.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated and more repetitive (e.g., frequent use of “This”).
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but lacks the range and precision seen in higher band essays. There’s some attempt at less common vocabulary (e.g., “drip irrigation”).
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay mainly uses simple sentence structures with some attempts at more complex sentences. There are fewer errors than would be seen in lower band essays, but the range is limited.
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Development and Support: Main points are present but less fully explained or supported with specific examples compared to higher band essays.
Sustainable farming practices to combat climate change
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Climate change (noun) – long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
Pronunciation: /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/ -
Agriculture (noun) – the science or practice of farming
Pronunciation: /ˈæɡrɪˌkʌltʃər/ -
Drought (noun) – a prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall
Pronunciation: /draʊt/ -
Crop yield (noun phrase) – the amount of crop produced per unit of land
Pronunciation: /krɒp jiːld/ -
Resilient (adjective) – able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions
Pronunciation: /rɪˈzɪliənt/ -
Sustainable (adjective) – able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources
Pronunciation: /səˈsteɪnəbl/ -
Irrigation (noun) – the supply of water to land or crops to help growth
Pronunciation: /ˌɪrɪˈɡeɪʃn/ -
Mitigation (noun) – the action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
Pronunciation: /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ -
Food security (noun phrase) – the state of having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food
Pronunciation: /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/ -
Greenhouse gas emissions (noun phrase) – the release of gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect
Pronunciation: /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs ɪˈmɪʃnz/
In conclusion, climate change’s impact on global agriculture is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. By studying these sample essays and understanding the key differences between band scores, you can improve your writing skills and prepare effectively for this type of question.
To further enhance your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you apply what you’ve learned and receive feedback from others. Remember, consistent practice is key to improving your IELTS writing performance.
Additionally, be prepared for related topics that might appear in future exams, such as:
- The role of technology in adapting agriculture to climate change
- The impact of changing agricultural practices on rural communities
- The relationship between climate change, agriculture, and global food prices
- Government policies to support farmers affected by climate change
- The environmental impact of intensive farming methods in the face of climate change
By broadening your knowledge on these related subjects, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle a wide range of potential questions on climate change and agriculture in your IELTS Writing Task 2.
