Water conservation has become an increasingly prominent topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent examination papers. This trend reflects growing global concerns about the importance of water conservation for future generations. Let’s analyze a common question type and explore model answers across different band scores.
IELTS candidate writing an essay about water conservation methods
Analyzing the Task Question
Some people believe that governments should focus on water conservation through stricter regulations and fines, while others think public education about saving water is more effective. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss two contrasting approaches to water conservation
- Evaluate the effectiveness of each method
- Present and justify a personal stance
Band 8-9 Model Answer
For decades, the role of technology in addressing global water scarcity has been debated alongside policy approaches. While some advocate for strict governmental control through regulations, others support educational initiatives. In my view, a combination of both approaches would yield the most effective results.
Proponents of stricter regulations argue that legally binding measures are necessary to ensure widespread compliance with water conservation efforts. For instance, Singapore’s mandatory water efficiency labeling scheme has successfully reduced household water consumption by 10% since its implementation. Furthermore, substantial fines for water wastage in Israel have proven effective in encouraging responsible water usage among both individuals and businesses.
However, those favoring public education contend that lasting behavioral change can only come through understanding and voluntary participation. Successful educational campaigns in Australia have demonstrated how informed citizens naturally adopt water-saving practices. Through school programs and community workshops, people develop a deeper appreciation for the role of water conservation in drought prevention and willingly modify their habits.
In my opinion, the most effective approach would be to implement both strategies simultaneously. While regulations provide immediate results and ensure minimum standards are met, education creates long-term sustainable change by fostering a water-conscious culture. Countries like Denmark have successfully demonstrated how combining strict building codes with comprehensive public awareness campaigns can achieve remarkable water conservation outcomes.
Community workshop teaching water conservation methods
Band 6-7 Model Answer
Water conservation is becoming more important due to importance of water conservation in tackling climate change. Some people think governments should make strict rules, while others believe education is better. I will discuss both ideas and give my opinion.
Government regulations can help save water through fines and rules. For example, when people have to pay high prices for using too much water, they will try to use less. Also, when companies must follow water-saving rules, they will install better equipment. This method works quickly because people don’t want to pay fines.
On the other hand, teaching people about saving water can also work well. When people learn why water is important and how to save it, they often change their behavior. For instance, in many countries, children learn about water conservation in school and then teach their parents. This creates long-lasting change because people understand the reasons behind saving water.
I think both methods are necessary. While rules and fines make people follow water-saving practices quickly, education helps people understand why they should save water. This understanding leads to better results in the long term. Therefore, governments should use both approaches together.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear progression of ideas with excellent cohesion
- Well-developed arguments with relevant examples
- Precise language use and natural flow
- Advanced topic-specific vocabulary
Band 6-7 Essay Features:
- Good basic vocabulary with some attempts at complex structures
- Clear organization but simpler development
- Basic examples and explanations
- Some repetition and simpler linking devices
- Adequate but less sophisticated language
Key Vocabulary for Water Conservation Essays
- Conservation (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ – The careful use of natural resources
- Stringent (adj) /ˈstrɪndʒənt/ – Strict, precise, and exacting
- Compliance (n) /kəmˈplaɪəns/ – The action of following rules or requests
- Sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain at a certain level
- Implementation (n) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – The process of putting a plan into action
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Similar topics might include water pricing policies, corporate water usage regulations, or residential water conservation initiatives.
