Climate change and its impact on human migration is a crucial topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. As an IELTS Writing Task 2 examiner, I’ve noticed an increase in questions related to this subject. Based on my analysis of past exams and current trends, I predict that this theme will continue to appear frequently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore a relevant question and provide sample essays to help you prepare effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that climate change is the main factor causing human migration in the 21st century. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?
This question asks for your opinion on the relationship between climate change and human migration. It’s crucial to:
- Clearly state your position
- Provide reasons and examples to support your view
- Consider counterarguments
- Conclude by summarizing your main points
Let’s examine two sample essays that address this question, one aiming for a Band 8-9 score and another for a Band 6-7 score.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Climate change has emerged as a significant global challenge in the 21st century, with far-reaching consequences that extend beyond environmental concerns. While I agree that climate change is a major factor contributing to human migration, I believe it is not the sole or necessarily the main cause in all cases.
Undoubtedly, climate change has led to an increase in extreme weather events and long-term environmental changes that force people to relocate. Rising sea levels threaten coastal communities and island nations, potentially creating millions of climate refugees in the coming decades. For instance, low-lying countries like Bangladesh and the Maldives are already experiencing the effects of sea-level rise, with some residents being forced to move inland or to other countries. Additionally, prolonged droughts in regions such as sub-Saharan Africa have made traditional agricultural livelihoods unsustainable, prompting many to migrate to urban areas or across borders in search of better opportunities.
However, it is essential to recognize that human migration is a complex phenomenon influenced by multiple factors. Economic disparities, political instability, and conflict remain significant drivers of migration worldwide. Many people choose to migrate in search of better job prospects, higher living standards, or to escape persecution and violence in their home countries. These factors often interplay with climate change, creating a multi-faceted push for migration. For example, in Syria, while drought exacerbated by climate change played a role in the country’s instability, it was the ensuing civil war that led to mass displacement and migration.
Moreover, technological advancements and globalization have made international migration more accessible and appealing for many individuals seeking new opportunities. The ease of travel and communication has facilitated migration patterns that are not necessarily linked to climate change but rather to personal aspirations and global economic trends.
In conclusion, while climate change is undoubtedly a significant factor contributing to human migration in the 21st century, it is not always the main or sole cause. The complex interplay of environmental, economic, political, and social factors shapes migration patterns globally. Addressing the challenges of migration requires a comprehensive approach that considers all these aspects, including mitigating climate change and its impacts on vulnerable populations.
(Word count: 345)
Climate change impact on migration
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In recent years, climate change has become a big problem around the world. Many people think it is the main reason why people are moving to different countries in the 21st century. I partly agree with this idea because climate change is important, but I think there are other reasons too.
Climate change is making some places hard to live in. For example, some islands are going underwater because the sea level is rising. This means people who live there have to move somewhere else. Also, in some countries, it’s getting too hot and dry to grow food, so farmers have to find new places to live and work. These problems are making many people move to other countries where they can have a better life.
However, I don’t think climate change is the only reason people move. There are other important reasons like wars, not having enough money, or wanting a better job. In many countries, people move because they want to earn more money or give their children a better education. Sometimes people move because it’s not safe in their country due to fighting or unfair treatment. These reasons are not directly related to climate change.
Also, it’s easier to move to other countries now than it was in the past. Planes and trains make it simple to travel far away, and the internet helps people learn about other places where they might want to live. This means more people are moving for reasons that aren’t about climate change.
In conclusion, while climate change is a big reason why people are moving in the 21st century, it’s not the only reason. There are many other factors that make people want to live in different countries. I think all these reasons together explain why so many people are moving around the world today.
(Word count: 295)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
Structure: Both essays follow a clear structure with an introduction, body paragraphs, and a conclusion. The Band 8-9 essay has more sophisticated paragraph development and transitions.
Vocabulary: The Band 8-9 essay uses more advanced vocabulary and phrases, such as “far-reaching consequences,” “exacerbated,” and “multi-faceted push for migration.” The Band 6-7 essay uses simpler language but still effectively communicates ideas.
Grammar: The higher band essay demonstrates a wider range of grammatical structures, including complex sentences and passive voice. The Band 6-7 essay uses mostly simple and compound sentences.
Coherence and Cohesion: Both essays use linking words and phrases, but the Band 8-9 essay shows more sophisticated use of cohesive devices.
Task Response: Both essays address the question, but the Band 8-9 essay provides more nuanced analysis and considers multiple perspectives.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
- Climate refugee (noun) /ˈklaɪmət ˌrefjʊˈdʒiː/ – A person forced to leave their home due to climate change effects
- Environmental degradation (noun) /ɪnˌvaɪrənˈmentl ˌdeɡrəˈdeɪʃn/ – The deterioration of the environment
- Mitigation (noun) /ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃn/ – The action of reducing the severity or seriousness of something
- Adaptation (noun) /ˌædæpˈteɪʃn/ – The process of changing to suit different conditions
- Displacement (noun) /dɪsˈpleɪsmənt/ – The act of forcing people or animals to leave the place where they live
- Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/ – The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties
- Vulnerability (noun) /ˌvʌlnərəˈbɪləti/ – The quality or state of being exposed to harm
- Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level
- Anthropogenic (adjective) /ˌænθrəpəˈdʒenɪk/ – Caused or produced by humans
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
Conclusion
The topic of climate change and its impact on human migration is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of international cooperation in addressing climate-induced migration
- The challenges faced by countries receiving climate refugees
- The economic impacts of climate change-driven migration on both origin and destination countries
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.