Climate change is a pressing global issue that demands collective action. As such, it’s no surprise that the topic of “global cooperation to tackle climate change” frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. This essay theme has been consistently present in past exams and is likely to remain relevant in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through sample essays and in-depth analysis to help you prepare for your IELTS Writing Task 2.
Global cooperation for climate change
Analyzing the Task 2 Prompt
Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 prompt on this topic:
Some people believe that global cooperation is the only way to tackle climate change effectively. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This prompt requires you to discuss your opinion on whether global cooperation is the sole effective method to address climate change. You need to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide reasons and examples to support your argument
- Consider counterarguments
- Draw a conclusion based on your discussion
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response
Climate change is undoubtedly one of the most pressing issues of our time, and the question of how to address it effectively has sparked intense debate. While some argue that global cooperation is the only viable solution, I partially agree with this statement. Although international collaboration is crucial, it must be complemented by local and individual actions to truly combat climate change.
Global cooperation is undeniably essential in tackling climate change due to its transboundary nature. The atmosphere knows no borders, and greenhouse gas emissions from one country affect the entire planet. International agreements like the Paris Agreement demonstrate the power of global cooperation in setting common goals and standards. Moreover, collaborative research and technology sharing can accelerate the development of green technologies, making them more accessible and affordable for all nations.
However, relying solely on global cooperation has its limitations. Implementation of international agreements often faces challenges due to conflicting national interests and varying levels of commitment. For instance, the United States’ temporary withdrawal from the Paris Agreement highlights the vulnerability of global accords to political shifts. Furthermore, climate change impacts vary regionally, necessitating tailored local approaches alongside global strategies.
Effective climate action requires a multi-tiered approach combining global, national, and individual efforts. While international cooperation sets the framework, national governments must translate these goals into concrete policies and regulations. Simultaneously, individuals and communities play a crucial role through lifestyle changes, local adaptation measures, and grassroots initiatives. For example, cities worldwide are implementing their own climate action plans, often exceeding national commitments.
In conclusion, while global cooperation is a cornerstone in addressing climate change, it is not the only solution. A comprehensive approach that integrates international collaboration with national policies and individual actions is necessary to tackle this complex issue effectively. By combining efforts at all levels, we can create a more resilient and sustainable future for our planet.
(Word count: 293)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:
Task Response: The essay directly addresses the prompt, presenting a clear position with a nuanced view. It discusses both the importance of global cooperation and its limitations.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-structured with clear paragraphs, each focusing on a specific point. Cohesive devices like “However,” “Moreover,” and “Furthermore” are used effectively.
Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, such as “transboundary nature,” “conflicting national interests,” and “multi-tiered approach.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately, including conditional sentences and passive voice.
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
Climate change is a big problem that affects everyone in the world. Some people think that global cooperation is the only way to solve this issue. I agree that international teamwork is important, but I don’t think it’s the only solution.
Working together globally is very important for fighting climate change. This is because pollution from one country can affect other countries too. For example, the Paris Agreement shows how countries can work together to set goals for reducing pollution. Also, when countries share new green technologies, it can help everyone use cleaner energy more easily.
But global cooperation alone is not enough. Sometimes countries don’t follow the agreements they make because they have different priorities. Also, different places have different climate problems, so they need different solutions. For instance, some countries need to focus on stopping forest fires, while others need to worry more about rising sea levels.
I think we need both global and local actions to tackle climate change. While countries work together on big plans, local governments and people should also do their part. Cities can make their own plans to use more renewable energy, and individuals can change their habits to be more eco-friendly.
In conclusion, global cooperation is very important for fighting climate change, but it’s not the only answer. We need a mix of international teamwork, local government actions, and individual efforts to really make a difference in protecting our planet.
(Word count: 250)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates good qualities that align with a Band 6-7 score:
Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task, presenting a clear position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with separate paragraphs for different ideas. Some cohesive devices are used, but they could be more varied.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate and relevant to the topic, but it lacks the sophistication of higher band scores. Some attempts at less common vocabulary are made, such as “renewable energy.”
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are no major errors that impede understanding.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are supported with examples, but they could be more fully elaborated. The essay presents a balanced view but lacks the depth of analysis seen in higher band scores.
Key Vocabulary for Climate Change Essays
Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/: The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
Adaptation (noun) /ædəpˈteɪʃn/: The process of changing to suit different conditions.
Renewable energy (noun phrase) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
Carbon footprint (noun phrase) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of the activities of a particular individual, organization, or community.
Sustainable development (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources.
Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
Greenhouse gas emissions (noun phrase) /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs ɪˈmɪʃnz/: The release of gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect by absorbing infrared radiation.
Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
Intergovernmental (adjective) /ˌɪntəɡʌvənˈmentl/: Existing or conducted between different governments.
Anthropogenic (adjective) /ˌænθrəpəˈdʒenɪk/: Originating in human activity (often used in the context of environmental pollution and climate change).
Conclusion
The topic of global cooperation in tackling climate change is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of developed vs. developing countries in addressing climate change
- The effectiveness of international climate agreements
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
- The impact of individual actions on global climate change
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about knowledge, but also about how you structure your arguments and use language effectively. Practice regularly, focusing on developing clear, coherent essays that directly address the task prompt.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section below. This practice will help you refine your skills and receive feedback from others preparing for the IELTS exam.
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