The topic of how renewable energy can affect global politics is becoming increasingly relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a specific question that has been asked in past IELTS tests:
Some people believe that the development of renewable energy sources is crucial for solving global political conflicts. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss the potential impact of renewable energy on global political conflicts. It’s essential to:
- Clearly state your position (agree/disagree/partially agree)
- Provide reasons and examples to support your argument
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Conclude by summarizing your main points
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The transition to renewable energy sources has been touted as a potential solution to various global issues, including political conflicts. While I largely agree that the development of renewable energy can contribute significantly to resolving international disputes, I believe its impact may be limited in some contexts.
Renewable energy development can indeed play a crucial role in mitigating global political tensions. Firstly, as countries become less dependent on fossil fuels, the geopolitical power dynamics centered around oil-rich nations may shift, potentially reducing conflicts over these resources. For instance, renewable energy for energy security could diminish the strategic importance of the Middle East, possibly leading to fewer international interventions in the region. Secondly, collaborative efforts in developing and sharing renewable technologies can foster international cooperation and strengthen diplomatic ties between nations.
However, it would be naive to assume that renewable energy alone can solve all global political conflicts. Many disputes are rooted in historical, cultural, or ideological differences that may persist regardless of energy sources. Moreover, the transition to renewable energy itself could create new tensions, such as competition for rare earth elements used in manufacturing solar panels and wind turbines.
Nevertheless, the potential benefits of renewable energy in reducing global conflicts outweigh these limitations. As countries work together to combat climate change through renewable energy adoption, they may find common ground on other issues. This collaboration could lead to improved international relations and a more stable global political landscape.
In conclusion, while the development of renewable energy sources is not a panacea for all global political conflicts, it can significantly contribute to their resolution. By reducing dependence on fossil fuels and fostering international cooperation, renewable energy has the potential to reshape global politics in a more peaceful direction.
(Word count: 295)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates several characteristics of a high-scoring IELTS response:
- Clear position: The writer agrees with the statement but acknowledges limitations.
- Well-developed arguments: Each point is elaborated with explanations and examples.
- Cohesive structure: The essay flows logically from introduction to conclusion.
- Advanced vocabulary: The writer uses sophisticated words and phrases accurately.
- Varied sentence structures: The essay includes a mix of simple and complex sentences.
- Addressing the task fully: All aspects of the question are discussed.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Many people think that developing renewable energy is very important for solving global political problems. I partly agree with this idea because renewable energy can help in some ways, but it may not solve all political issues.
One reason why renewable energy can help reduce global conflicts is that it can make countries less dependent on oil. When countries don’t need to buy oil from other places, they may have fewer reasons to fight. For example, if a country can use solar or wind power instead of oil, it won’t need to worry about oil prices or supply problems. This can lead to more peaceful relationships between nations.
Another way renewable energy can help is by encouraging countries to work together. Many renewable energy projects need cooperation between different countries. When nations work together on these projects, they can build better relationships and trust. This can help prevent conflicts in the future.
However, renewable energy may not solve all political problems. Some conflicts are caused by other issues like religion or land disputes. These problems might continue even if countries use renewable energy. Also, how climate change is affecting migration patterns could create new conflicts that renewable energy alone can’t solve.
In conclusion, I believe that developing renewable energy sources can help solve some global political conflicts, but it is not a complete solution. It can reduce dependence on oil and encourage cooperation, but other factors also need to be addressed to achieve global peace.
(Word count: 253)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a mid-range IELTS response:
- Clear position: The writer partially agrees with the statement.
- Adequate arguments: Points are explained, but examples could be more specific.
- Basic structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Good vocabulary: The writer uses some topic-specific vocabulary.
- Mix of sentence structures: There is some variation, but less complexity than the Band 8-9 essay.
- Addressing the task: The main aspects of the question are covered, but with less depth.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Renewable energy is becoming more important in the world today. Some people think it can help solve political problems between countries. I agree with this idea because renewable energy has many benefits.
First, renewable energy can help countries not fight about oil. If countries use solar or wind power, they don’t need to buy oil from other countries. This can make them more independent and have fewer reasons to argue.
Second, renewable energy can make countries work together. They can share ideas and technology about how to use renewable energy. This can help them become friends and not enemies.
But renewable energy might not fix all problems. Some countries might still fight for other reasons, like land or religion. These problems are not about energy, so renewable energy can’t solve them.
Also, some countries might not want to use renewable energy because it’s expensive to start. This could make them angry at countries that push for renewable energy use.
In conclusion, I think renewable energy can help solve some political problems, but not all of them. It’s a good idea to use more renewable energy, but we also need to find other ways to make peace between countries.
(Word count: 193)
Explanation of Band 5-6 Score
This essay demonstrates characteristics of a lower mid-range IELTS response:
- Position stated: The writer agrees with the statement.
- Basic arguments: Points are made but lack depth and specific examples.
- Simple structure: The essay has a basic introduction, body, and conclusion.
- Limited vocabulary: The writer uses simple words and phrases, with some repetition.
- Simple sentences: Most sentences are short and simple in structure.
- Partial task response: The main idea is addressed, but the discussion lacks nuance.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used
- Geopolitical (adjective) /ˌdʒiːəʊpəˈlɪtɪkəl/ – Relating to politics, especially international relations, as influenced by geographical factors
- Mitigate (verb) /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – Make less severe, serious, or painful
- Foster (verb) /ˈfɒstə(r)/ – Encourage the development of something
- Panacea (noun) /ˌpænəˈsiːə/ – A solution or remedy for all difficulties or diseases
- Transition (noun) /trænˈzɪʃən/ – The process or period of changing from one state or condition to another
- Diplomatic ties (noun phrase) /ˌdɪpləˈmætɪk taɪz/ – Official relationships between countries
- Ideological (adjective) /ˌaɪdɪəˈlɒdʒɪkəl/ – Based on or relating to a system of ideas and ideals
- Collaboration (noun) /kəˌlæbəˈreɪʃən/ – The action of working with someone to produce something
- Dependency (noun) /dɪˈpendənsi/ – The state of relying on or being controlled by someone or something else
Conclusion
Understanding how renewable energy can affect global politics is crucial for IELTS candidates. As this topic becomes more prevalent, it’s essential to practice writing essays that explore various aspects of this issue. Consider how renewable energy might impact international relations, resource conflicts, and how to reduce air pollution through renewable energy adoption.
For further practice, try writing an essay on the following potential future IELTS question:
Some experts argue that countries should prioritize renewable energy development over economic growth. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary, and provide specific examples to support your arguments. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.