Climate change and its impact on global migration patterns is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent IELTS exams. Based on the analysis of past IELTS questions and current global trends, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people say that the main environmental problem of our time is the loss of particular species of plants and animals. Others say that there are more important environmental problems. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.
This question, while not directly mentioning climate change or migration, allows candidates to explore these themes within the broader context of environmental issues. Let’s break down the question:
- It presents two viewpoints on environmental problems:
- The loss of biodiversity (specific plant and animal species)
- Other environmental issues (which can include climate change and its effects on migration)
- It requires you to discuss both perspectives
- You need to provide your own opinion
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, focusing on how we can incorporate the theme of climate change affecting global migration patterns.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Climate change and biodiversity loss are two intertwined environmental challenges that our planet faces today. While some argue that the extinction of specific plant and animal species is the primary ecological concern, others contend that there are more pressing environmental issues to address. In my opinion, while biodiversity loss is indeed critical, the overarching problem of climate change, which contributes to species extinction and triggers global migration patterns, is the most urgent environmental crisis of our time.
Those who prioritize biodiversity loss as the main environmental problem have valid concerns. The extinction of plant and animal species can disrupt entire ecosystems, leading to a cascade of negative effects. For instance, the decline of bee populations threatens global food security, as many crops rely on these insects for pollination. Moreover, the loss of biodiversity reduces the planet’s resilience to environmental changes and limits potential sources for medical discoveries.
However, I believe that climate change represents a more fundamental and far-reaching environmental threat. Rising global temperatures are not only accelerating biodiversity loss but are also reshaping human migration patterns on an unprecedented scale. Climate change exacerbates extreme weather events, such as hurricanes and droughts, forcing people to abandon their homes and seek refuge in more habitable regions. For example, low-lying island nations in the Pacific are already facing existential threats due to rising sea levels, compelling entire communities to relocate.
Furthermore, climate change’s impact on agriculture and water resources is triggering mass migrations from rural to urban areas, particularly in developing countries. This shift not only strains urban infrastructure but also leads to the loss of traditional knowledge and cultural practices tied to specific ecosystems. The Syrian refugee crisis, for instance, was partly fueled by a severe drought linked to climate change, illustrating how environmental issues can escalate into complex humanitarian and political challenges.
In conclusion, while the loss of plant and animal species is undoubtedly a severe environmental problem, I believe that climate change, with its wide-ranging impacts on biodiversity, human migration, and global stability, is the most pressing environmental issue of our time. Addressing climate change requires immediate and concerted global action, as its effects on both ecosystems and human societies are already profound and far-reaching.
(Word count: 365)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring IELTS Writing Task 2 response:
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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 argument: The writer presents a well-reasoned argument, acknowledging the importance of biodiversity loss while asserting that climate change is the more critical issue.
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Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples, such as the decline of bee populations and the situation in Pacific island nations, to support its points.
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Complex language: The writer uses sophisticated vocabulary and sentence structures appropriately, such as “intertwined environmental challenges” and “exacerbates extreme weather events.”
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Focused response: The essay addresses all parts of the question, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Cohesive devices: The essay uses a variety of linking words and phrases to ensure smooth transitions between ideas.
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Topic-specific vocabulary: The writer demonstrates a strong command of topic-related terms like “biodiversity,” “ecosystems,” and “global migration patterns.”
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Today, many people are worried about the environment. Some think that the biggest problem is that many types of plants and animals are disappearing. Others believe there are more important environmental issues to worry about. I think both views have good points, but climate change is probably the biggest problem because it affects everything, including animals, plants, and where people live.
People who say that losing plant and animal species is the main problem have a good reason to be concerned. When we lose a type of plant or animal, it can cause problems for other living things. For example, if bees disappear, many plants won’t be able to make fruits and seeds. This could make it hard for people to grow food. Also, some animals and plants might have special things in them that could help make new medicines.
However, I think climate change is an even bigger problem. Climate change is making the Earth warmer, which is bad for many plants and animals. It’s also making some places harder for people to live in. When it gets too hot or there’s not enough rain, people sometimes have to move to find better places to live. For example, in some countries, farmers are moving to cities because they can’t grow crops anymore due to changing weather patterns.
Climate change is also causing more extreme weather like big storms and floods. These can damage people’s homes and make them move to safer places. In some countries near the ocean, the sea level is rising, which means people might have to leave their homes forever.
In conclusion, while losing plants and animals is a serious problem, I believe climate change is the biggest environmental issue we face. It not only harms plants and animals but also forces people to move from their homes. We need to do more to stop climate change and help people who are affected by it.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:
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Addresses the task: The essay discusses both viewpoints and presents the writer’s opinion as required.
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Clear structure: It has a basic introduction, body paragraphs for each viewpoint, and a conclusion.
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Relevant ideas: The writer provides relevant examples and reasons to support their arguments.
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Language use: The vocabulary and grammar are generally accurate, with some attempts at more complex structures.
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Cohesion: There is some use of cohesive devices, though not as sophisticated as in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Paragraphing: The essay is properly paragraphed, helping to organize ideas clearly.
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Room for improvement: To reach a higher band, the essay could include more specific examples, use more advanced vocabulary, and develop ideas more fully.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
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Migration patterns (noun phrase) /maɪˈɡreɪʃən ˈpætənz/: The regular movement of animals or people from one place to another.
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Climate change (noun phrase) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns.
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Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃən/: The state or process of a species ceasing to exist.
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Resilience (noun) /rɪˈzɪliəns/: The capacity to recover quickly from difficulties.
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Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæsəbeɪt/: To make a problem or situation worse.
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Drought (noun) /draʊt/: A prolonged period of abnormally low rainfall, leading to a shortage of water.
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Refugee (noun) /ˌrefjuˈdʒiː/: A person who has been forced to leave their country in order to escape war, persecution, or natural disaster.
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Humanitarian (adjective) /hjuːˌmænɪˈteəriən/: Concerned with or seeking to promote human welfare.
Conclusion
The topic of climate change and its impact on global migration patterns is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays that integrate this theme into broader environmental discussions. Consider exploring related topics such as:
- The economic impact of climate-induced migration
- The role of international cooperation in addressing climate change and migration
- The challenges of integrating climate refugees into host countries
- The effectiveness of current climate change mitigation strategies
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use relevant examples, and demonstrate a good command of English vocabulary and grammar. We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare more effectively for the IELTS exam.