IELTS examiner conducting speaking test with candidate discussing environmental issues
Environmental issues frequently appear in IELTS Speaking tests, particularly in discussing local challenges. Let’s explore how to effectively address this topic through each part of the speaking test, similar to how you might describe an experience that taught you something valuable.
Part 1: Introduction Questions
Common questions include:
- Are there any environmental problems in your area?
- What do you do to protect the environment?
- How has the environment changed in your country?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“In my city, air pollution has become a pressing concern. The main contributors are vehicle emissions and industrial activities. Personally, I try to minimize my carbon footprint by using public transportation and reducing single-use plastics.”
Part 2: Cue Card
Describe an environmental problem in your country
You should say:
- What the problem is
- What causes this problem
- How it affects people
- What can be done about it
Urban air pollution affecting daily life in a major city
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“I’d like to talk about the severe air pollution that has been plaguing my hometown. This environmental crisis has intensified over the past decade, primarily due to rapid industrialization and exponential growth in vehicle numbers.
The root causes are multifaceted. Industrial emissions from factories, combined with exhaust fumes from millions of vehicles, create a toxic cocktail of pollutants. The situation is exacerbated by the burning of crop residue in neighboring agricultural areas.
This pollution has far-reaching implications for public health. Many residents suffer from respiratory ailments, and there’s been a marked increase in cases of asthma and bronchitis. Children and elderly people are particularly vulnerable to these health risks.
To tackle this issue, we need a comprehensive approach. The government should implement stricter emission standards and incentivize clean energy adoption. Additionally, public awareness campaigns and investment in sustainable public transportation could help mitigate the problem.”
Just as you might describe a skill you have improved recently, this environmental discussion requires clear structure and specific examples.
Part 3: Discussion Questions
Q: What role should governments play in environmental protection?
Sample answer (Band 8-9):
“Governments should play a pivotal role in environmental protection through policy implementation and enforcement. They need to strike a balance between economic development and environmental conservation. This could include imposing carbon taxes, subsidizing renewable energy, and establishing strict pollution controls.”
Government and community environmental initiatives
Key Vocabulary and Expressions
- Environmental degradation /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ (n): The deterioration of the environment
- Sustainable development /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ (n): Development meeting present needs without compromising future generations
- Carbon footprint /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/ (n): The amount of carbon dioxide released due to human activities
Similar to when you describe a favorite outdoor activity you enjoy with family, using appropriate vocabulary enhances your response quality.
Examiner’s Tips
- Use specific examples and personal experiences
- Demonstrate awareness of both local and global environmental issues
- Structure your response logically
- Include relevant statistics or data when possible
- Show understanding of causes and solutions
Remember to practice these patterns regularly, much like when you describe an outdoor activity you want to try.
