Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays and Expert Analysis on Environmental Protection

Environmental protection is a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing frequently in past exams and likely to remain prevalent in future tests. This topic’s relevance to global concerns makes it a prime candidate for assessment. Let’s examine a recent question that exemplifies this trend:

Some people think that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve. Others, however, believe that these problems can only be solved if individuals take action. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question reflects the ongoing debate about individual responsibility versus collective action in addressing environmental issues. Let’s analyze the question and provide sample essays for different band scores.

Question Analysis

The question presents two contrasting viewpoints:

1. Environmental problems are too large for individuals to solve.
2. Environmental problems can only be solved through individual action.

To effectively answer this question, candidates should:

• Discuss both perspectives
• Provide examples or explanations for each view
• Present their own opinion
• Conclude with a clear stance

Now, let’s examine sample essays for different band scores.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Environmental challenges are undeniably complex, leading some to believe they are beyond individual control. However, others argue that personal actions are the keystone of environmental solutions. While both perspectives have merit, I believe that a combination of individual and collective efforts is essential for meaningful change.

Those who contend that environmental problems are too vast for individuals to tackle often point to global issues like climate change or deforestation. They argue that such large-scale challenges require governmental intervention and international cooperation. For instance, reducing global carbon emissions necessitates policy changes and industrial reforms that are beyond the scope of individual action. This view emphasizes the need for systemic change rather than personal responsibility.

Conversely, proponents of individual action argue that collective change begins with personal choices. They believe that small actions, when adopted by many, can lead to significant impacts. For example, if millions of people choose to reduce plastic use, the cumulative effect on plastic pollution could be substantial. This perspective empowers individuals to contribute to environmental solutions through daily decisions and lifestyle changes.

In my opinion, both viewpoints hold truth, but neither is complete on its own. Environmental problems are indeed complex and require large-scale interventions. However, these interventions are often driven by public demand and individual choices. Personal actions, such as adopting sustainable practices or supporting eco-friendly businesses, can influence market trends and policy decisions. Simultaneously, governmental policies and corporate practices can facilitate and amplify individual efforts.

Therefore, I believe the most effective approach to environmental protection involves a synergy between individual actions and collective initiatives. While individuals should take responsibility for their environmental impact, governments and organizations must create frameworks that make sustainable choices accessible and impactful. This collaborative approach harnesses the power of personal commitment while addressing the need for systemic change.

In conclusion, while environmental problems may seem overwhelming, the solution lies in recognizing the interconnectedness of individual and collective actions. By combining personal responsibility with broader societal efforts, we can create a more sustainable future for our planet.

(Word count: 320)

IELTS Writing Task 2 sample essay on environmental protection

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:

1. Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph has a central topic, and ideas are logically linked.

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Examples include “keystone,” “cumulative effect,” and “synergy.”

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly. Complex sentences are used effectively without errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

6. Conclusion: The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and restates the writer’s opinion.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

Many people think that environmental problems are too big for individuals to solve, while others believe that only individual actions can solve these problems. I think both views have some truth, but individual actions are very important.

Some people say environmental problems are too big for individuals. They think issues like global warming or pollution need big solutions from governments or companies. For example, to stop climate change, we need new laws and big changes in industry. One person can’t do this alone.

On the other hand, some people believe individual actions are the key to solving environmental problems. They say that if many people make small changes, it can have a big effect. For instance, if everyone uses less plastic, it can greatly reduce plastic pollution in the oceans. This view gives people hope that they can help the environment.

I think both views are partly right, but I believe individual actions are very important. While it’s true that big problems need big solutions, these solutions often start with individual choices. When many people change their habits, it can influence companies and governments to make bigger changes.

For example, if many people choose to buy electric cars, car companies will make more electric cars and governments might build more charging stations. This shows how individual choices can lead to bigger changes.

In conclusion, while environmental problems are big, individuals can play a crucial role in solving them. By making eco-friendly choices in our daily lives, we can contribute to larger environmental solutions.

(Word count: 266)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good qualities but has some areas for improvement:

1. Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task and presents a clear position.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but some transitions between ideas could be smoother.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay. There’s room for more varied and precise word choices.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but lacks the variety and flexibility of the higher band essay.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are developed logically, but some points could benefit from more detailed explanation or examples.

6. Conclusion: The conclusion effectively restates the main idea but could be more comprehensive.

Key Vocabulary

1. Environmental protection (noun) – /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl prəˈtekʃn/ – the practice of protecting the environment from harm or destruction
2. Systemic change (noun phrase) – /sɪˈstemɪk tʃeɪndʒ/ – changes that affect an entire system rather than just parts of it
3. Cumulative effect (noun phrase) – /ˈkjuːmjələtɪv ɪˈfekt/ – the combined effect of multiple actions or events
4. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
5. Eco-friendly (adjective) – /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/ – not harmful to the environment
6. Carbon emissions (noun phrase) – /ˈkɑːbən ɪˈmɪʃnz/ – the release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere
7. Deforestation (noun) – /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/ – the action of clearing a wide area of trees
8. Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – the interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect greater than the sum of the individual elements

Key vocabulary for IELTS Writing Task 2 on environmental protection

Conclusion

Environmental protection is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its global significance. The sample essays provided demonstrate how to approach this topic at different levels of proficiency. To further improve your skills, consider practicing with these additional potential questions:

1. Do you think individual countries should be held responsible for environmental damage that affects other nations?
2. Some people believe that environmental problems should be solved through technology rather than lifestyle changes. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
3. Discuss the advantages and disadvantages of implementing strict environmental regulations on businesses.

Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is practice. Try writing your own essay on one of these topics or the main question discussed in this article. Feel free to share your essay in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice will help you refine your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.