Climate change is a pressing global issue that affects various aspects of our lives, including migration patterns. This topic has gained significant attention in recent IELTS exams and is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a sample IELTS Writing Task 2 question related to climate change and global migration, along with two model essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Let’s examine the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Climate change is causing people to migrate from their home countries to other parts of the world. What are the causes and effects of this trend? What solutions can you suggest to address this issue?
This question falls under the category of causes, effects, and solutions. It requires you to:
- Discuss the causes of climate-induced migration
- Explain the effects of this migration trend
- Propose solutions to address the issue
Sample Essay for Band 8-9
Here’s a high-quality essay that would likely score in the Band 8-9 range:
Climate change has emerged as a significant driver of global migration in recent years, forcing people to leave their homes and seek refuge in other parts of the world. This essay will examine the causes and effects of this trend, as well as propose potential solutions to mitigate its impact.
The primary cause of climate-induced migration is the increasing frequency and severity of extreme weather events. Rising sea levels, prolonged droughts, and intense storms are making many areas uninhabitable, particularly in coastal regions and low-lying islands. For instance, countries like Bangladesh and the Maldives are at risk of losing substantial portions of their land to rising seas, compelling residents to relocate. Additionally, desertification in parts of Africa and the Middle East is rendering agricultural land infertile, forcing farmers to abandon their livelihoods and seek opportunities elsewhere.
The effects of this migration trend are multifaceted and far-reaching. On a societal level, it leads to the disruption of communities and cultural identities, as people are uprooted from their ancestral homes. Economically, it places a strain on both the countries of origin and destination. Host countries may struggle to accommodate large influxes of climate refugees, potentially leading to social tensions and resource scarcity. Conversely, countries losing populations may face brain drain and economic decline, further exacerbating their vulnerability to climate change.
To address this complex issue, a multi-pronged approach is necessary. Firstly, global efforts to mitigate climate change must be intensified through the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and the transition to renewable energy sources. Secondly, vulnerable communities should be supported in developing resilience and adaptation strategies, such as implementing flood defenses or drought-resistant agriculture techniques. Lastly, international cooperation is crucial in establishing legal frameworks to protect climate refugees and ensure their rights are respected.
In conclusion, climate-induced migration is a growing challenge that requires immediate attention and collaborative action. By addressing the root causes of climate change and supporting vulnerable populations, we can work towards a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s an essay that would likely score in the Band 6-7 range:
Climate change is making many people move from their home countries to other parts of the world. This essay will look at the causes and effects of this trend and suggest some solutions.
One of the main causes of climate-related migration is extreme weather. Floods, droughts, and storms are happening more often because of global warming. This makes it hard for people to live in some areas. For example, some islands might disappear under the sea, so people have to leave. Also, in some places, it’s getting too hot to grow food, so farmers can’t work anymore and have to find new jobs elsewhere.
This migration has several effects. When people move to new countries, it can cause problems. The new country might not have enough jobs or houses for everyone. This can lead to conflicts between local people and newcomers. Also, the countries that people leave might lose important workers, which can hurt their economy.
To solve this problem, we need to do a few things. First, we should try to stop climate change by using less fossil fuels and more clean energy like solar and wind power. Second, we should help people in danger areas to prepare for climate change. This could mean building stronger houses or teaching new farming methods. Finally, countries should work together to make rules about how to help climate refugees.
In conclusion, climate change is making people move to new places, which causes problems for both the people who move and the countries they go to. We need to work together to stop climate change and help people affected by it.
(Word count: 262)
Writing Tips for Different Band Scores
For Band 8-9:
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Vocabulary: Use sophisticated and precise vocabulary related to climate change and migration. For example:
- “climate-induced migration”
- “desertification”
- “brain drain”
- “resilience and adaptation strategies”
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Grammar: Employ a wide range of complex structures accurately. For instance:
- Conditional sentences: “If global temperatures continue to rise, more people will be forced to migrate.”
- Passive voice: “Vulnerable communities should be supported in developing resilience strategies.”
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Coherence and Cohesion: Use a variety of linking devices and organize ideas logically. Example:
- “Firstly… Secondly… Lastly…”
- “Conversely…”
- “To address this complex issue…”
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Task Response: Fully address all parts of the question with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
For Band 6-7:
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Vocabulary: Use a mix of common and some less common vocabulary related to the topic. For example:
- “extreme weather”
- “global warming”
- “climate refugees”
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Grammar: Use a combination of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. For instance:
- “Climate change is making many people move from their home countries.”
- “When people move to new countries, it can cause problems.”
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Coherence and Cohesion: Use basic linking words and organize ideas into paragraphs. Example:
- “One of the main causes…”
- “Also…”
- “To solve this problem…”
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Task Response: Address all parts of the question, but some points may be more fully developed than others.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Climate refugee (noun, /ˈklaɪmət ˌrefjʊˈdʒiː/): A person forced to leave their home due to sudden or gradual changes in the environment related to climate change.
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Desertification (noun, /dɪˌzɜːtɪfɪˈkeɪʃn/): The process by which fertile land becomes desert, typically as a result of drought, deforestation, or inappropriate agriculture.
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Resilience (noun, /rɪˈzɪlɪəns/): The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties; toughness.
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Mitigation (noun, /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/): The action of reducing the severity, seriousness, or painfulness of something.
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Adaptation (noun, /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/): The process of change by which an organism or species becomes better suited to its environment.
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Displacement (noun, /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/): The forced movement of people from their locality or environment.
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Vulnerability (noun, /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/): The quality or state of being exposed to the possibility of being attacked or harmed, either physically or emotionally.
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Sustainability (noun, /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/): The ability to maintain at a certain rate or level, especially regarding ecological balance.
Conclusion
Climate change and its impact on global migration patterns is a complex and increasingly relevant topic for IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the causes, effects, and potential solutions, you can craft a well-structured and informative essay. Remember to practice writing essays on similar topics, such as:
- The economic impacts of climate-induced migration on host countries
- The role of international organizations in addressing climate refugee crises
- The cultural consequences of large-scale climate migration
To improve your writing skills, try composing an essay based on the question provided in this article and share it in the comments section. This practice will help you refine your approach to IELTS Writing Task 2 and receive valuable feedback.
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