The topic of Global Water Scarcity And Its Economic Impact has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and the growing importance of this issue, it’s highly likely that candidates will encounter questions related to water scarcity and its economic consequences in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS exams and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some experts believe that it is better for economic growth if people can buy and sell land freely. Others say that it is better if the government owns and controls land distribution. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
While this question doesn’t directly mention water scarcity, it provides an excellent opportunity to discuss land ownership and distribution, which are closely tied to water resource management and economic impacts. We’ll approach this question from the perspective of water scarcity and its economic implications.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8 Response
Land ownership and distribution policies have significant implications for economic growth and resource management, including water resources. While some argue for free market control, others advocate for government oversight. This essay will discuss both viewpoints and argue that a balanced approach is necessary, especially considering the growing challenge of water scarcity.
Proponents of free market land distribution argue that it promotes economic efficiency and growth. When individuals can freely buy and sell land, it allows for optimal resource allocation based on market demands. This can lead to increased productivity and innovation in land use, potentially spurring economic development. For instance, in areas facing water scarcity, private ownership might incentivize landowners to invest in water-efficient technologies or develop drought-resistant crops, thus mitigating the economic impact of water shortages.
On the other hand, government control over land distribution can ensure more equitable access to resources and better environmental stewardship. In the context of water scarcity, government oversight can be crucial in preventing overexploitation of water resources and ensuring fair distribution. For example, in arid regions, the government can implement zoning laws that restrict water-intensive industries or mandate water conservation measures, thereby safeguarding long-term economic stability.
In my opinion, a balanced approach that combines elements of both private ownership and government regulation is most effective, especially when considering the economic impacts of water scarcity. While free market principles can drive innovation and efficiency, government intervention is necessary to protect vital resources and ensure sustainable economic growth. For instance, governments could allow private land ownership but implement strict regulations on water usage and conservation, or create incentives for sustainable practices.
In conclusion, the issue of land ownership and distribution is complex, particularly when viewed through the lens of water scarcity and its economic implications. A nuanced approach that harnesses the benefits of both private ownership and government control is essential for addressing the challenges of resource management and ensuring sustainable economic growth in the face of increasing water scarcity.
(Word count: 310)
Analysis of Band 8 Essay
This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its Band 8 score:
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Clear structure: The essay follows a logical structure with a clear introduction, body paragraphs discussing both viewpoints, and a conclusion.
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Coherent arguments: Each paragraph presents a clear main idea and supports it with relevant examples.
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Sophisticated vocabulary: The essay uses a range of advanced vocabulary accurately (e.g., “optimal resource allocation,” “environmental stewardship,” “overexploitation”).
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Complex sentences: The writer uses a variety of complex sentence structures effectively.
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Clear position: The writer’s opinion is clearly stated and well-supported.
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Relevant examples: The essay consistently relates the discussion to water scarcity and its economic impacts.
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Cohesive devices: The essay uses a range of linking words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
Land ownership and distribution are important topics that affect economic growth. Some people think it’s better if people can buy and sell land freely, while others believe the government should control land. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Those who support free buying and selling of land say it’s good for the economy. When people can own land, they might work harder to make it productive. This can lead to more economic growth. For example, if someone owns land in an area with little water, they might try to find new ways to save water or grow crops that need less water. This could help the local economy even when there’s not much water.
On the other hand, some people think the government should control land. They say this is fairer and better for the environment. When it comes to water scarcity, the government can make rules to stop people from using too much water. For instance, they could stop factories that use a lot of water from being built in dry areas. This could help protect water resources and the economy in the long term.
In my opinion, a mix of both ideas is best. People should be able to own land, but the government should also have some control. This is especially important when thinking about water scarcity and its effect on the economy. The government could let people own land but also make rules about how much water they can use. They could also give rewards to people who save water or use it wisely.
To conclude, land ownership and distribution are complex issues, especially when considering water scarcity and the economy. I believe a balanced approach that includes both private ownership and some government control is the best way to handle these challenges and support economic growth.
(Word count: 295)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates several features that place it in the Band 6-7 range:
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Basic structure: The essay follows a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
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Simple arguments: The main ideas are presented clearly, but with less sophistication than the Band 8 essay.
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Limited vocabulary: The essay uses some topic-specific vocabulary but relies more on general terms.
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Simpler sentence structures: While there is some variation, the sentences are generally less complex than in the Band 8 essay.
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Clear position: The writer’s opinion is stated clearly.
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Relevant examples: The essay provides examples related to water scarcity, though they are less detailed than in the Band 8 essay.
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Basic cohesive devices: The essay uses some linking words, but less variety than the Band 8 essay.
Global water scarcity economic impact
Key Vocabulary for Water Scarcity and Economic Impact
- Scarcity (noun, /ˈskersəti/) – the state of being scarce or in short supply
- Resource allocation (noun phrase) – the assignment of available resources to various uses
- Sustainable (adjective, /səˈsteɪnəbl/) – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Drought-resistant (adjective) – able to withstand long periods without rain
- Overexploitation (noun, /ˌəʊvərˌeksplɔɪˈteɪʃn/) – excessive use of a resource
- Conservation (noun, /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/) – prevention of wasteful use of a resource
- Arid (adjective, /ˈærɪd/) – having little or no rain; extremely dry
- Incentivize (verb, /ɪnˈsentɪvaɪz/) – motivate or encourage someone to do something
- Mitigation (noun, /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/) – the action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something
- Stewardship (noun, /ˈstjuːədʃɪp/) – the job of supervising or taking care of something
Conclusion
Global water scarcity and its economic impact is a crucial topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. By understanding how to approach this subject from various angles, such as land ownership and resource management, you can prepare yourself to tackle a wide range of potential questions.
To further enhance your skills, consider practicing with these additional prompts:
- Discuss the role of international cooperation in addressing global water scarcity.
- Some people believe that water should be free for all. Others think it should be treated as a commodity. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
- To what extent do you agree that individuals, rather than governments, should be responsible for water conservation?
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly. Try writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below. This active practice will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.