Food security and global hunger have been recurring themes in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of recent exam papers. This topic’s frequency has increased due to growing global concerns about food sustainability and agricultural challenges. Let’s examine some recent exam questions and provide sample essays at different band scores.
Analysis of Common Question Types
Similar to discussions about Organic farming and sustainable agriculture, exam questions often focus on:
- Solutions to food shortages
- Government responsibilities
- Technology’s role in food production
- Distribution of food resources
Let’s focus on this frequently appearing question:
Some people believe that governments should focus on solving immediate food shortage problems, while others argue that long-term solutions are more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
The debate between addressing immediate food crises versus implementing long-term food security solutions has gained significant attention, similar to discussions about should genetically modified crops be encouraged. While both approaches have merit, I believe a balanced combination is essential.
Those advocating for immediate solutions argue that hunger cannot wait. When people face starvation, quick interventions like food aid and emergency relief programs become crucial. For instance, during natural disasters or conflicts, immediate food distribution can save countless lives. Moreover, addressing current hunger prevents related social problems like civil unrest and mass migration.
However, proponents of long-term solutions emphasize sustainability. They contend that temporary fixes merely postpone inevitable crises. Long-term approaches include developing drought-resistant crops, implementing sustainable farming practices, and establishing robust food distribution systems. These solutions, while taking time to implement, create lasting food security.
In my view, governments should adopt a dual approach. While immediate aid is vital for crisis management, concurrent investment in sustainable solutions ensures future food security. This strategy resembles the approach taken with Restrictions on genetically modified organisms?, where both immediate safety and long-term impacts are considered.
Sustainable agriculture methods showing modern farming techniques
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Food shortage is a big problem in many countries today. Some people think governments should solve current food problems quickly, while others believe long-term solutions are better. I think both views have good points.
People who support immediate solutions have good reasons. When people don’t have food, they need help right away. For example, if there is a flood or earthquake, people need food immediately. The government can give them food and money to buy what they need. This helps stop people from being hungry now.
Other people think long-term solutions are more important. They say we need better farming methods and new technology to grow more food. Also, we need to teach farmers new skills and make better ways to store food. These solutions take more time but can help more people in the future.
I think governments should do both things. They should help hungry people now and also make plans for the future. This way, they can solve today’s problems and prevent new problems tomorrow.
Key Vocabulary
- Food security (n) /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərɪti/ – reliable access to sufficient food
- Sustainable agriculture (n) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃə/ – farming methods that protect environment
- Food distribution (n) /fuːd ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃn/ – process of delivering food
- Drought-resistant (adj) /draʊt rɪˈzɪstənt/ – able to survive with little water
- Civil unrest (n) /ˈsɪvl ʌnˈrest/ – public disorder or conflict
Conclusion
The topic of food security continues to be crucial in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future exam questions might explore related themes like:
- Impact of climate change on food production
- Role of technology in agriculture
- International cooperation in food distribution
Practice writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments for feedback. Consider discussing the importance of wildlife protection for future generations as it relates to sustainable food production.
