As global awareness of environmental challenges continues to grow, deforestation has become an increasingly common topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on analysis of past exam questions from 2018-2023, this topic appears in approximately 15% of environment-related questions, making it crucial for test-takers to be well-prepared. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays targeting different band scores.
deforestation and its global environmental impact is a complex issue that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives.
Selected Question from Recent IELTS Exams
Deforestation is a major global problem. What are the main causes of this issue and what measures can governments and individuals take to tackle this problem?
Understanding the causes and effects of global deforestation
Question Analysis
This question contains two main tasks:
- Identify the main causes of deforestation
- Suggest solutions at both governmental and individual levels
The question requires a problem-solution essay structure with balanced coverage of both causes and measures.
Sample Essays
Band 8.0 Essay
Deforestation has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, with far-reaching consequences for global ecosystems. This essay will examine the primary drivers behind this issue and propose concrete solutions at both governmental and individual levels.
The main causes of deforestation are predominantly economic in nature. Commercial logging operations, driven by the demand for timber and paper products, systematically clear vast tracts of forest. Additionally, agricultural expansion plays a crucial role, as farmers, particularly in developing nations, clear forestland to create space for crops and livestock. Urban development further exacerbates the problem, with growing cities encroaching upon forested areas.
Governments can implement several effective measures to address this crisis. Strict regulations and enforcement of logging practices, coupled with heavy penalties for illegal deforestation, can help protect remaining forests. Furthermore, providing economic incentives for sustainable forestry practices and supporting alternative livelihoods for communities dependent on forest resources can reduce deforestation pressure. Governments should also invest in reforestation programs and establish protected areas.
Individuals also have a significant role to play in combating deforestation. Conscious consumer choices, such as selecting certified sustainable wood products and reducing paper consumption, can decrease demand for forest resources. Additionally, supporting organizations working on forest conservation through donations or volunteering can contribute to preservation efforts. Personal lifestyle changes, like adopting a plant-based diet to reduce the demand for agricultural land, can also make a meaningful impact.
In conclusion, while deforestation poses a severe threat to our environment, coordinated action between governments and individuals can help mitigate this crisis. The implementation of robust policies, combined with conscious individual choices, offers hope for preserving our world’s forests for future generations.
Band 6.5 Essay
Nowadays, deforestation is becoming a big problem in many countries. This essay will discuss why this happens and what we can do about it.
There are several reasons why forests are being cut down. First, many companies cut trees to make furniture and paper. Second, farmers need more land to grow food and keep animals. Also, as cities grow bigger, they need more space, which means cutting down forests.
The government can help solve this problem in different ways. They can make strict rules about cutting trees and punish people who break these rules. They can also give money to companies that protect forests and plant new trees. Moreover, they should teach people about why forests are important.
People can also help stop deforestation. They can use less paper and buy things made from recycled materials. They can also support groups that work to save forests. Some people choose to eat less meat because this helps reduce the need for farmland.
In conclusion, deforestation is caused by both business needs and population growth. If governments and people work together, we can help save our forests. It is important to act now before it’s too late.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.0 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (Band 8): Fully addresses all parts of the question with well-developed ideas
- Coherence and Cohesion (Band 8): Clear progression throughout, effective use of paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (Band 8): Wide range of vocabulary used naturally and precisely
- Grammar (Band 8): Wide range of structures with flexibility and accuracy
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (Band 6.5): Addresses main points but with less development
- Coherence and Cohesion (Band 6.5): Basic organization but simpler linking
- Lexical Resource (Band 6): Adequate vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammar (Band 6.5): Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- Deforestation (n) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃən/ – The destruction of forests
- Encroachment (n) /ɪnˈkrəʊtʃmənt/ – Gradual advance beyond usual limits
- Exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/ – Make worse
- Sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to continue over time without damaging the environment
- Mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – The action of reducing the severity of something
Practice Suggestions
For further practice, try writing essays on these related topics:
- The impact of deforestation on indigenous communities
- The role of technology in preventing illegal logging
- Balancing economic development with forest conservation
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with other learners.
