IELTS Writing Task 2: How Renewable Energy Can Reduce Fossil Fuel Dependence – Sample Essays and Analysis

The topic of renewable energy and its potential to reduce dependence on fossil fuels has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and the growing global focus on sustainable energy solutions, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams and analyze how to approach it effectively.

Renewable Energy vs Fossil Fuels

Analyzing the Question

Some people think that the best way to reduce the amount of fossil fuel used is for governments to increase the cost of fuel for consumers. To what extent do you agree or disagree?

This question asks for your opinion on a specific approach to reducing fossil fuel consumption. It’s important to note that:

1. The main topic is reducing fossil fuel usage.
2. The proposed solution is government intervention through price increases.
3. You need to express your level of agreement or disagreement with this approach.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

While increasing the cost of fossil fuels through government intervention may seem like a straightforward solution to reduce consumption, I believe this approach is overly simplistic and potentially counterproductive. A more comprehensive and sustainable strategy is necessary to effectively decrease our reliance on fossil fuels.

Firstly, raising fuel prices disproportionately affects lower-income individuals and small businesses, potentially exacerbating economic inequality. These groups often lack the resources to quickly adapt to higher energy costs, which could lead to financial hardship and social unrest. Moreover, in many regions, alternative energy sources or public transportation may not be readily available, leaving consumers with no choice but to bear the increased costs.

Instead, governments should focus on a multi-faceted approach to reduce fossil fuel dependence. This could include substantial investments in renewable energy infrastructure, such as solar and wind power, to make clean energy more accessible and affordable. Additionally, providing incentives for businesses and individuals to adopt energy-efficient technologies and practices would encourage a gradual shift away from fossil fuels without imposing sudden financial burdens.

Furthermore, enhancing public transportation systems and promoting electric vehicles through tax breaks and improved charging infrastructure would offer viable alternatives to fossil fuel-powered transportation. Education and awareness campaigns can also play a crucial role in changing consumer behavior and fostering a culture of energy conservation.

In conclusion, while increasing fuel costs may lead to some reduction in fossil fuel usage, it is not the most effective or equitable solution. A comprehensive strategy that combines infrastructure development, incentives, and education is more likely to achieve sustainable reductions in fossil fuel consumption while promoting economic growth and social equity.

(Word count: 275)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several key features that contribute to its high band score:

1. Clear position: The writer disagrees with the proposed solution and offers alternative approaches.
2. Well-developed arguments: Each paragraph presents a distinct point, supported by examples and explanations.
3. Cohesive structure: The essay flows logically from one idea to the next, using appropriate linking words.
4. Sophisticated vocabulary: The writer uses a range of advanced words and phrases accurately.
5. Varied sentence structures: The essay includes both complex and compound sentences.
6. Addressing the task fully: The writer discusses both the drawbacks of the proposed solution and alternative approaches.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

I partly agree that increasing the cost of fossil fuels can help reduce their usage, but I think it’s not the only solution and may cause problems for some people.

One reason why raising fuel prices might work is that it makes people think twice before using their cars or other things that need a lot of fuel. When something costs more, people usually try to use less of it. This could make people choose public transport or buy more efficient cars, which would help reduce fossil fuel use.

However, making fuel more expensive can be unfair to poor people who need to drive for work or live in areas without good public transport. It might make their lives harder and they might not be able to afford other important things. Also, some businesses that use a lot of fuel might have to raise their prices, which could affect everyone.

I think a better way to reduce fossil fuel use is for governments to invest in renewable energy like solar and wind power. This can make clean energy cheaper and more available for everyone. They should also improve public transport and give people money to buy electric cars or make their homes more energy-efficient.

In conclusion, while increasing fuel costs might help a little, I believe a mix of different approaches would be more effective and fairer for reducing fossil fuel use.

(Word count: 234)

Essay Analysis

This essay demonstrates several characteristics of a Band 6-7 response:

1. Clear position: The writer partially agrees with the statement and offers alternative solutions.
2. Adequate development: The main ideas are supported, though not as thoroughly as in the Band 8-9 essay.
3. Coherent structure: The essay has a clear introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion.
4. Appropriate vocabulary: The language used is generally accurate, though less sophisticated than the higher band essay.
5. Some complex sentences: The writer attempts to use a mix of simple and complex sentences.
6. Task achievement: The essay addresses the main points of the question, though with less depth than the Band 8-9 essay.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒs.əl ˌfjuːəlz/ – fuels formed from the remains of ancient plants and animals
2. Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuː.ə.bəl ˈen.ə.dʒi/ – energy from sources that are naturally replenished
3. Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ – basic physical structures and facilities needed for operation
4. Incentives (noun) /ɪnˈsen.tɪvz/ – things that motivate or encourage someone to do something
5. Exacerbate (verb) /ɪɡˈzæs.ə.beɪt/ – to make a problem or bad situation worse
6. Multi-faceted (adjective) /ˌmʌl.tiˈfæs.ɪ.tɪd/ – having many different aspects or features
7. Disproportionately (adverb) /ˌdɪs.prəˈpɔː.ʃən.ət.li/ – to a degree that is too large or too small in comparison with something else
8. Counterproductive (adjective) /ˌkaʊn.tə.prəˈdʌk.tɪv/ – having an effect opposite to the one intended or desired

Conclusion

The topic of reducing fossil fuel dependence through renewable energy is likely to remain relevant in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. When approaching such questions, it’s crucial to consider multiple perspectives and provide well-supported arguments. Practice writing essays on related topics, such as:

1. The role of individual actions versus government policies in promoting renewable energy adoption.
2. The economic impacts of transitioning from fossil fuels to renewable energy sources.
3. The challenges and opportunities in implementing renewable energy technologies in developing countries.

Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and sentence structures, and fully address all parts of the question. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants.