Sustainable agriculture in developing nations is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Its relevance to global food security, environmental sustainability, and economic development makes it a popular choice for test-makers. Based on trends in recent IELTS exams, we can expect this theme to continue appearing in future tests. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze how to approach it effectively.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that developing countries should focus on improving industrial skills, while others think they should promote agricultural education. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question touches on the broader theme of sustainable agriculture in developing nations, asking test-takers to consider the balance between industrial and agricultural development. Let’s break it down:
- Topic: Economic development strategies for developing countries
- Task: Discuss both viewpoints and provide your opinion
- Key points to address:
- Arguments for focusing on industrial skills
- Arguments for promoting agricultural education
- Your personal stance on the issue
Sample Essays for Different Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay
In the ongoing debate about the most effective path to development for emerging economies, some argue for prioritizing industrial skills, while others advocate for a focus on agricultural education. Both perspectives have merit, but I believe a balanced approach that emphasizes agricultural education while also developing industrial capabilities is the most sustainable strategy for developing nations.
Proponents of industrial skill development argue that this approach can rapidly accelerate economic growth. They point to examples like South Korea and Singapore, which transformed their economies through industrialization. By focusing on manufacturing and technology sectors, countries can potentially create high-value jobs, increase exports, and attract foreign investment. This path may seem particularly appealing for nations seeking to quickly boost their GDP and international competitiveness.
On the other hand, those favoring agricultural education emphasize the fundamental importance of food security and rural development. Agriculture remains the backbone of many developing economies, employing a significant portion of the population. Improving agricultural practices through education can lead to increased crop yields, more sustainable farming methods, and better livelihoods for rural communities. Moreover, a strong agricultural sector can provide a stable foundation for broader economic growth and reduce dependence on food imports.
In my opinion, while both industrial and agricultural development are crucial, developing nations should prioritize agricultural education as part of a comprehensive strategy for sustainable growth. This approach offers several advantages. Firstly, it addresses the immediate needs of a large portion of the population engaged in farming. Secondly, it enhances food security, which is fundamental to social stability and overall development. Thirdly, modern agricultural practices can be environmentally sustainable, helping to preserve natural resources for future generations.
However, this focus on agriculture should not come at the expense of industrial development. Instead, countries should seek synergies between the two sectors. For instance, agro-processing industries can add value to agricultural products, creating jobs and boosting exports. Similarly, technological advancements in industry can be applied to agriculture, improving efficiency and productivity.
In conclusion, while industrial skills are important, promoting agricultural education should be a primary focus for developing nations. This approach can ensure food security, improve rural livelihoods, and provide a solid foundation for sustainable economic growth. By balancing agricultural and industrial development, countries can create a more resilient and inclusive path to prosperity.
(Word count: 377)
Band 6-7 Essay
The question of whether developing countries should focus on industrial skills or agricultural education is a complex one. Both approaches have their advantages and disadvantages, and I believe that a combination of both is necessary for balanced development.
Those who support focusing on industrial skills argue that it can help countries modernize quickly. They say that industries can create many jobs and increase a country’s wealth. For example, countries like China have grown fast by developing their industries. This approach can attract foreign investment and help countries compete globally.
On the other hand, supporters of agricultural education point out that many people in developing countries still work in farming. They believe that improving farming methods can increase food production and reduce poverty in rural areas. Better agricultural practices can also help protect the environment and make food production more sustainable.
In my opinion, developing countries should not choose one approach over the other but should try to balance both. Agriculture is still very important for many of these countries, providing food and jobs for many people. Improving agricultural education can help farmers produce more food and earn better incomes. At the same time, countries should not ignore industrial development, as it can create new opportunities and help the economy grow.
A good strategy might be to focus on agribusiness, which combines agriculture with industrial processes. This could involve teaching farmers modern techniques and also developing industries that process agricultural products. This way, countries can improve both their farming and industrial sectors at the same time.
To conclude, while both industrial skills and agricultural education are important, I believe developing countries should give special attention to agriculture while also developing their industries. This balanced approach can lead to more sustainable and inclusive development, benefiting both rural and urban populations.
(Word count: 295)
Band 5-6 Essay
There is a debate about what developing countries should focus on – industrial skills or agricultural education. Both are important for a country’s growth.
Some people think industrial skills are more important. They say that industries can make a country rich quickly. Countries like Japan and Korea became rich by making cars and electronics. If people learn industrial skills, they can get good jobs in factories and offices.
Other people believe agricultural education is better. Many people in poor countries are farmers. If they learn better ways to farm, they can grow more food. This can help reduce hunger and poverty. Also, good farming practices can protect the environment.
I think both industrial skills and agricultural education are necessary. Countries need food, so agriculture is very important. But they also need industries to make things and create jobs. Maybe the best way is to improve both at the same time.
For example, countries can teach farmers new techniques and also build factories to process farm products. This way, both farmers and factory workers can benefit.
In conclusion, I believe developing countries should focus on both industrial skills and agricultural education. This can help them grow in a balanced way and improve life for all people.
(Word count: 204)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring response:
- Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. For example, phrases like “ongoing debate,” “accelerate economic growth,” and “synergies between the two sectors” showcase sophisticated language use.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a variety of complex structures accurately. Errors are rare and do not impede communication.
Band 6-7 Essay Explanation
This essay shows characteristics of a mid-range score:
- Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion of each viewpoint is less developed compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a clear overall progression, but the links between ideas are sometimes not as smooth.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate for the task, with some attempts at more sophisticated words (e.g., “agribusiness”), but the range is more limited than in the higher band essay.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with generally good control of grammar. However, the structures are less varied than in the Band 8-9 essay.
Band 5-6 Essay Explanation
This essay demonstrates features of a lower mid-range score:
- Task Response: The essay addresses the task, but the ideas are less developed and the writer’s opinion is less clear.
- Coherence and Cohesion: There is a basic structure, but paragraphing is less skillful and the progression of ideas is not always clear.
- Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited but adequate for the task. There are fewer attempts at using sophisticated language.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentence structures are mainly simple, with some attempts at complex sentences. There may be some errors, but they don’t significantly impede communication.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Sustainable agriculture (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃər/ – Farming practices that ensure long-term food production without depleting resources.
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Food security (noun phrase) /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – The state of having reliable access to sufficient, affordable, nutritious food.
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Rural development (noun phrase) /ˈrʊərəl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The process of improving the quality of life and economic well-being of people living in rural areas.
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Agro-processing (noun) /ˈæɡrəʊ ˈprəʊsesɪŋ/ – The transformation of products originating from agriculture, forestry, and fisheries.
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Industrialization (noun) /ɪnˌdʌstriəlaɪˈzeɪʃn/ – The development of industries in a country on a wide scale.
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Economic growth (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈnɒmɪk ɡrəʊθ/ – An increase in the amount of goods and services produced per head of the population over a period of time.
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Foreign investment (noun phrase) /ˈfɒrɪn ɪnˈvestmənt/ – The flow of capital from one country to another, granting extensive ownership stakes in domestic companies and assets.
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Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
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Agribusiness (noun) /ˈæɡrɪbɪznəs/ – The business sector encompassing farming and farming-related commercial activities.
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Livelihood (noun) /ˈlaɪvlihʊd/ – A means of securing the necessities of life.
Conclusion
The topic of promoting sustainable agriculture in developing nations is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The role of technology in modernizing agriculture in developing countries
- Balancing environmental conservation with agricultural expansion
- The impact of climate change on agriculture in developing nations
- Strategies for achieving food security in rapidly growing populations
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to practice regularly and seek feedback on your essays. Try writing your own essay on the topic discussed in this article and share it in the comments section for peer review and improvement. This active practice will help you develop the skills needed to tackle a wide range of IELTS Writing Task 2 questions confidently.