In recent years, the topic of sustainable agriculture in developing countries has gained significant traction in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. This subject is not only relevant to global environmental and economic concerns but also provides a rich context for test-takers to demonstrate their writing skills. Based on past exam trends and the increasing importance of sustainability in global discourse, we can expect this theme to appear frequently in future IELTS tests.
Let’s explore a common question type related to this topic and analyze sample essays at different band levels.
Some people believe that developing countries should focus on industrial development to improve their economies, while others argue that promoting sustainable agriculture is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question presents a classic “discuss both views and give your opinion” format, which is common in IELTS Writing Task 2. The task requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that developing countries should focus on industrial development.
- Discuss the view that promoting sustainable agriculture is more important.
- Provide and justify their own opinion on the matter.
Key points to consider:
- The economic implications of both industrial development and sustainable agriculture
- The environmental impact of each approach
- Long-term sustainability versus short-term economic gains
- The specific challenges and needs of developing countries
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In the ongoing debate about economic development strategies for developing nations, some advocate for a focus on industrial growth, while others emphasize the importance of sustainable agriculture. This essay will examine both perspectives before arguing that a balanced approach, with a slight emphasis on sustainable agriculture, is most beneficial for developing countries.
Proponents of industrial development argue that it is the fastest route to economic prosperity. They point to historical examples such as the rapid industrialization of China and South Korea, which led to significant economic growth and improved living standards. Industrial development can create jobs, boost exports, and attract foreign investment, all of which are crucial for developing economies. Moreover, a strong industrial base can provide the financial resources needed to invest in other sectors, including agriculture.
On the other hand, advocates for sustainable agriculture contend that this approach is more crucial for developing nations. Sustainable farming practices can ensure food security, protect natural resources, and provide livelihoods for a significant portion of the population in these countries. Furthermore, sustainable agriculture is more environmentally friendly, helping to mitigate climate change and preserve biodiversity. In the long term, this approach can lead to more stable and resilient economies, less dependent on volatile global markets.
In my opinion, while both industrial development and sustainable agriculture have merits, I believe that developing countries should prioritize sustainable agriculture, albeit as part of a balanced strategy. This approach offers several advantages that are particularly relevant to the challenges faced by developing nations. Firstly, it addresses the immediate need for food security, which is often a pressing concern in these countries. Secondly, it provides employment and income for rural populations, helping to reduce poverty and urban migration. Thirdly, sustainable agriculture practices can help preserve natural resources and biodiversity, which are often under threat in developing regions.
However, it is important to note that this focus on sustainable agriculture should not come at the expense of all industrial development. A balanced approach that promotes sustainable farming while also fostering select industries can create a more diversified and resilient economy. For instance, developing countries could focus on agro-processing industries that add value to agricultural products, creating a synergy between the two sectors.
In conclusion, while industrial development has its merits, I believe that promoting sustainable agriculture should be the primary focus for developing countries. This approach addresses immediate needs, provides long-term sustainability, and can be complemented by targeted industrial development to create a balanced and resilient economy.
(Word count: 399)
Sustainable agriculture practices in developing countries
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellence in several key areas:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and clearly stating the writer’s opinion. It provides a nuanced perspective, suggesting a balanced approach with emphasis on sustainable agriculture.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. It uses a range of cohesive devices effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “Furthermore”) to guide the reader through the argument.
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Lexical Resource: The essay employs a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately. Phrases like “ongoing debate,” “rapid industrialization,” and “volatile global markets” demonstrate sophisticated language use.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. It demonstrates control over grammar and punctuation throughout.
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Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with clear reasoning and relevant examples. The essay shows depth of thought in considering both short-term and long-term implications of each approach.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, developing countries face a choice between focusing on industrial development or promoting sustainable agriculture to improve their economies. This essay will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Some people think that developing countries should concentrate on industrial development. They believe this is the best way to grow the economy quickly. Industries can create many jobs and increase exports, which brings money into the country. For example, countries like China have become much richer by building factories and making products to sell around the world. Also, having strong industries can help a country compete globally and attract investment from other countries.
However, others argue that promoting sustainable agriculture is more important for developing countries. They say that sustainable farming can provide food for the population and protect the environment at the same time. Many developing countries have large rural populations that depend on farming, so improving agriculture can help many people. Sustainable methods can also help farmers deal with climate change and protect natural resources like water and soil for the future.
In my opinion, I think both industrial development and sustainable agriculture are important, but sustainable agriculture should be the main focus for developing countries. This is because food security is a basic need, and many people in these countries are farmers. By improving farming methods, countries can ensure they have enough food and help many people earn a living. Also, sustainable agriculture is better for the environment, which is important for long-term development.
However, I don’t think countries should ignore industrial development completely. A balanced approach that includes some industry, especially industries related to agriculture, could be beneficial. For example, countries could develop food processing industries that use local farm products.
In conclusion, while industrial development has some advantages, I believe that promoting sustainable agriculture is more important for developing countries. It addresses basic needs, helps more people, and is better for the environment in the long run.
(Word count: 329)
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good writing skills but falls short of the highest band scores:
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Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and stating an opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied and sophisticated compared to the higher band essay. There’s some good use of topic-specific vocabulary.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences accurately, but doesn’t demonstrate the same level of grammatical flexibility as the Band 8-9 essay.
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Development of Ideas: Ideas are relevant and supported, but the level of detail and explanation is not as thorough as in the higher band essay.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Sustainable agriculture (noun) – /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃər/ – Farming practices that ensure long-term productivity without harming the environment.
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Industrial development (noun) – /ɪnˈdʌstriəl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The growth and expansion of industries in an economy.
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Food security (noun) – /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – The state of having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
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Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Agro-processing (noun) – /ˈæɡrəʊ ˈprəʊsesɪŋ/ – The transformation of products originating from agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
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Resilient economy (noun phrase) – /rɪˈzɪliənt ɪˈkɒnəmi/ – An economy able to withstand or recover quickly from difficult conditions.
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Mitigate (verb) – /ˈmɪtɪɡeɪt/ – To make less severe, serious, or painful.
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Volatile (adjective) – /ˈvɒlətaɪl/ – Liable to change rapidly and unpredictably, especially for the worse.
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Synergy (noun) – /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction of elements that when combined produce a total effect that is greater than the sum of the individual elements.
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Diversified (adjective) – /daɪˈvɜːsɪfaɪd/ – Varying or diverse; having a wide range of different types.
Conclusion
The topic of promoting sustainable agriculture in developing countries is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in sustainable agriculture
- Balancing economic growth and environmental protection in developing countries
- The impact of climate change on agriculture in developing nations
- Government policies to support sustainable farming practices
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is not just about knowledge of the topic, but also about how well you can structure your argument, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and develop your ideas. Practice writing essays on these topics and share them in the comments section below for feedback and improvement. This active practice is one of the most effective ways to enhance your IELTS writing skills.
