Environmental protection, particularly endangered species conservation, has been a recurring topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exams from 2018-2023, questions about wildlife conservation appeared in approximately 15% of tests, making it a high-probability topic for future exams.
Statistical analysis of endangered species conservation topics in IELTS exams 2018-2023
Recent Real Test Question Analysis
Many species of animals and plants are disappearing from our planet. What are the causes of this problem, and what measures can be taken to solve it?
Question Breakdown
- Topic: Wildlife conservation
- Task: Causes and solutions
- Key areas to address:
- Reasons for species extinction
- Practical measures to protect endangered species
- Both local and global perspectives
Model Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The rapid disappearance of numerous plant and animal species from Earth has become a critical environmental concern. This essay will examine the primary causes of this crisis and propose effective solutions to address it.
The main drivers of species extinction are predominantly human-related. Habitat destruction through deforestation and urbanization has forced countless species from their natural environments. For instance, the clearing of Amazon rainforest has severely impacted numerous endemic species, including the Giant Armadillo and the Spider Monkey. Additionally, climate change induced by human activities has disrupted ecosystems worldwide, affecting migration patterns and breeding cycles of various species. The illegal wildlife trade also continues to decimate populations of endangered animals, particularly in Southeast Asia and Africa.
To combat this crisis, both immediate and long-term measures are essential. Governments must strengthen and strictly enforce wildlife protection laws, implementing severe penalties for poaching and illegal trading of endangered species. Furthermore, the establishment of more protected areas and wildlife corridors can help preserve critical habitats. International cooperation is crucial – cross-border conservation initiatives and shared responsibility for protecting migratory species can significantly impact survival rates. Educational programs should also be implemented to raise awareness about biodiversity’s importance and encourage public participation in conservation efforts.
Model Essay 2 (Band 7.0)
Today, many animals and plants are becoming extinct at an alarming rate. This essay will discuss why this is happening and suggest some solutions to this problem.
There are several reasons why species are disappearing. First, many natural habitats are being destroyed because of human activities. When forests are cut down for farming or building, animals lose their homes. Second, pollution from factories and cars affects air and water quality, making it hard for plants and animals to survive. Also, illegal hunting of rare animals for their parts continues to be a big problem in many countries.
To solve these problems, we need to take several steps. Governments should make stronger laws to protect endangered species and their habitats. For example, they can create more national parks and stop illegal hunting. People should also be educated about why it’s important to save these species. Additionally, we can support conservation groups that work to protect endangered animals and plants.
Model Essay 3 (Band 6.0)
Many animals and plants are disappearing from Earth these days. I will write about why this happens and how we can stop it.
The main reason is that people destroy animal homes. When we build houses and roads, we cut trees where animals live. Also, many people hunt animals for money. Some factories make pollution that kills plants and animals.
I think we can help by making new laws. The police should catch people who kill rare animals. Schools should teach children about protecting nature. We should also plant more trees and clean up pollution. If everyone helps, we can save many animals and plants.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with well-developed ideas
- Excellent use of examples and specific details
- Strong cohesion and coherence
Band 7.0 Essay:
- Good vocabulary range with some natural expression
- Clear progression of ideas
- Adequate examples
- Minor errors but good overall control
Band 6.0 Essay:
- Basic vocabulary and simple structures
- Ideas present but underdeveloped
- Limited use of examples
- Some coherence but repetitive
Key Vocabulary
- endemic (adj) /enˈdemɪk/ – native to a particular area
- biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – variety of life in an ecosystem
- habitat destruction (n) /ˈhæbɪtæt dɪˈstrʌkʃən/ – damage to natural environments
- conservation initiatives (n) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən ɪˈnɪʃətɪvz/ – programs to protect nature
- ecosystem disruption (n) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm dɪsˈrʌpʃən/ – interference with natural systems
Practice Suggestions
Try writing essays on these related topics:
- The role of zoos in protecting endangered species
- Individual responsibility in wildlife conservation
- Economic development versus species protection
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.
