The topic of electric vehicles and government incentives has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations, particularly in questions addressing environmental concerns and technological advancement. Based on recent exam patterns, this theme appears in approximately 15% of environmental-related questions, making it a significant area for preparation.
Let’s examine one frequently encountered question type:
Some people think that governments should provide incentives for using electric cars to reduce environmental pollution. Others think there are better alternatives to solve environmental problems. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
should electric cars be incentivized by governments is a complex topic that requires careful consideration of multiple perspectives. Let’s analyze model essays at different band levels to understand effective approaches to this question.
Analysis of Question Requirements
- Topic: Government incentives for electric vehicles
- Task: Discuss both views + give opinion
- Key areas to cover: Environmental impact, government role, alternative solutions
- Word count requirement: 250-300 words
Band 8 Sample Essay
Climate change mitigation has sparked debate about government support for electric vehicles, with some advocating for financial incentives while others prefer alternative environmental solutions. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a balanced approach combining electric vehicle promotion with other measures is most effective.
Proponents of government incentives for electric cars present compelling arguments. Financial support through tax breaks and subsidies can significantly reduce the initial purchase cost, making these vehicles more accessible to the general public. Moreover, widespread adoption of electric vehicles would substantially decrease carbon emissions and urban air pollution, as demonstrated in countries like Norway where generous incentives have led to electric vehicles comprising over 50% of new car sales.
However, critics rightfully argue that alternative solutions deserve equal attention. Investment in public transportation infrastructure could yield more immediate environmental benefits by reducing overall vehicle usage. Additionally, improving renewable energy sources and industrial emission controls might prove more cost-effective in addressing environmental challenges. These alternatives often require less government spending per unit of emission reduction.
In my view, the most effective approach combines both strategies. Governments should implement scaled incentives for electric vehicles while simultaneously investing in public transportation and renewable energy infrastructure. This multi-faceted approach ensures immediate emission reductions through electric vehicle adoption while developing long-term sustainable solutions. For example, Singapore has successfully integrated electric vehicle incentives with extensive public transportation development and strict emission controls.
By pursuing a comprehensive environmental strategy, nations can maximize the impact of their environmental policies while avoiding over-reliance on any single solution. This balanced approach acknowledges both the immediate benefits of electric vehicles and the necessity of broader environmental initiatives.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Electric cars are becoming more popular these days, and many people think governments should give money to help people buy them. However, some people think there are better ways to solve environmental problems. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, government support for electric cars can help the environment. When people get money to buy electric cars, more people will choose them instead of normal cars. This means less pollution in cities and fewer greenhouse gases. For example, in China, the government gives money to electric car buyers, and now many people use electric cars.
However, other people say there are better ways to help the environment. They think governments should spend money on better buses and trains. Also, they say we should focus on making factories cleaner and using more solar power. These things might help the environment more than electric cars.
I think both ideas are good, but electric cars are very important. While governments should also improve public transport and control pollution from factories, helping people buy electric cars can make a big difference right now. Many countries are already doing this successfully.
In conclusion, I believe governments should give money to help people buy electric cars, but they should also work on other ways to protect the environment. This will give us the best chance to solve environmental problems.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary: “mitigation,” “compelling,” “infrastructure”
- Complex sentence structures
- Clear organization with well-developed ideas
- Strong examples and specific details
- Cohesive devices used effectively
- Clear position with nuanced arguments
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Simple but clear vocabulary
- Basic sentence structures
- Main ideas present but less developed
- Limited use of examples
- Basic cohesive devices
- Position stated but less sophisticated reasoning
Key Vocabulary
- mitigation (n) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/ – the act of reducing the severity of something
- incentive (n) /ɪnˈsentɪv/ – something that encourages people to do something
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃər/ – basic physical and organizational structures
- emission (n) /ɪˈmɪʃən/ – the production and discharge of something
- comprehensive (adj) /ˌkɒmprɪˈhensɪv/ – complete; including all aspects
- multi-faceted (adj) /ˌmʌltiˈfæsɪtɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
- sustainable (adj) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
To practice this topic effectively, consider writing about similar questions such as:
- The role of government subsidies in promoting green technology
- Public transport vs private electric vehicles
- The effectiveness of different environmental protection measures
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow learners.