Renewable energy accessibility is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on sustainable development, we can expect this theme to remain prevalent in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and explore sample essays across different band scores.
Some people think that governments should invest in developing more sources of renewable energy such as solar and wind power. Others believe that governments should focus on improving and expanding existing energy sources such as coal and oil. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints on government investment in energy sources. The key aspects to address are:
- The argument for investing in renewable energy (solar and wind power)
- The argument for improving existing energy sources (coal and oil)
- Your personal opinion on the issue
It’s crucial to discuss both perspectives equally before presenting your own viewpoint with supporting reasons and examples.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Governments worldwide face the challenge of meeting growing energy demands while addressing environmental concerns. While some advocate for increased investment in renewable energy sources, others argue for enhancing existing fossil fuel technologies. In my opinion, governments should prioritize renewable energy development to ensure long-term sustainability and reduce environmental impact.
Proponents of renewable energy argue that investing in solar and wind power is crucial for several reasons. Firstly, these sources are inexhaustible and environmentally friendly, producing minimal greenhouse gas emissions compared to fossil fuels. Secondly, as technology advances, the cost of renewable energy production continues to decrease, making it increasingly competitive with traditional energy sources. For example, in recent years, countries like Germany and Denmark have successfully integrated large-scale renewable energy systems into their national grids, demonstrating the viability of these technologies.
On the other hand, those in favor of improving existing energy sources contend that coal and oil remain essential for meeting current energy needs. They argue that these sources are reliable, readily available, and have well-established infrastructure. Additionally, proponents claim that advancements in clean coal technology and more efficient oil extraction methods can significantly reduce the environmental impact of these fuels. For instance, carbon capture and storage technologies have shown promise in mitigating CO2 emissions from coal-fired power plants.
In my view, while both arguments have merit, governments should prioritize investment in renewable energy sources. The long-term benefits of transitioning to clean, sustainable energy far outweigh the short-term advantages of maintaining reliance on fossil fuels. Renewable energy not only addresses climate change concerns but also promotes energy independence and creates new job opportunities in the green sector. Moreover, as renewable technologies continue to improve and become more cost-effective, they offer a more sustainable solution to meeting future energy demands.
In conclusion, while improving existing energy sources may provide short-term benefits, investing in renewable energy is crucial for building a sustainable future. Governments should focus on developing and implementing policies that encourage the adoption of solar, wind, and other clean energy technologies to ensure long-term energy security and environmental protection.
(Word count: 339)
Renewable Energy Investment vs Fossil Fuel Improvement
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high-scoring response:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “greenhouse gas emissions” and “carbon capture and storage.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, energy is a big issue for governments. Some people think governments should spend money on new types of energy like solar and wind power. Others say it’s better to improve the energy we already use, like coal and oil. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
People who support renewable energy have good reasons. Solar and wind power are clean and don’t run out. They don’t make pollution like coal and oil do. Also, as we get better at making solar panels and wind turbines, they become cheaper. Some countries are already using a lot of renewable energy and it’s working well.
However, some people think it’s better to improve coal and oil. They say these energy sources are reliable and we already have all the equipment to use them. They also say that new technology can make coal and oil cleaner. For example, there are ways to catch the pollution from coal power plants before it goes into the air.
In my opinion, I think governments should focus more on renewable energy. Even though coal and oil are useful now, they will run out someday and they are bad for the environment. Renewable energy is better for the long-term future. It can help stop climate change and create new jobs. Also, as technology gets better, renewable energy will become cheaper and easier to use.
To conclude, while both ideas have good points, I believe investing in renewable energy is the best choice for governments. It will help create a cleaner and more sustainable future for everyone.
(Word count: 268)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a mid-range response:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task but with less depth compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with some errors that do not impede communication.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented with some supporting details, but the development is less thorough than in the higher band essay.
Should governments invest more in renewable energy research to address the challenges of climate change and energy security? This is a question that many policymakers are grappling with as they seek to balance economic growth with environmental sustainability.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Renewable energy (noun) – /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Fossil fuels (noun) – /ˈfɒsl fjuːəlz/ – A natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms
- Sustainability (noun) – /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Carbon emissions (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
- Infrastructure (noun) – /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – The basic physical and organizational structures and facilities needed for the operation of a society or enterprise
- Greenhouse gas (noun) – /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs/ – A gas that contributes to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation
- Energy security (noun) – /ˈenədʒi sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – The uninterrupted availability of energy sources at an affordable price
- Carbon capture (noun) – /ˈkɑːbən ˈkæptʃə/ – The process of capturing waste carbon dioxide from large point sources and storing it
- Viable (adjective) – /ˈvaɪəbl/ – Capable of working successfully; feasible
- Transition (noun/verb) – /trænˈzɪʃn/ – The process or a period of changing from one state or condition to another
Key Vocabulary for Renewable Energy Essays
Conclusion
The topic of making renewable energy more accessible is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of government subsidies in promoting renewable energy adoption
- The impact of renewable energy on job markets and economic growth
- Balancing energy needs with environmental protection in developing countries
- The challenges of integrating renewable energy into existing power grids
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and support your arguments with relevant examples. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS Writing Task 2.
How to reduce air pollution through renewable energy adoption is another important aspect to consider when discussing the accessibility of clean energy sources. As you practice writing essays on this topic, think about the broader implications of renewable energy adoption on environmental quality and public health.
