Protecting endangered species is a critical topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends and past exam questions, this theme is likely to continue being a popular choice for test-makers. Let’s explore a sample question and provide a model answer to help you prepare for this important subject.

Analyzing the Task

Let’s examine a typical IELTS Writing Task 2 question on this topic:

Many animal species are becoming extinct nowadays. Some people say that countries and individuals should protect these animals from dying out, while others say we should concentrate more on problems facing human beings. Discuss both these views and give your own opinion.

This question presents a common dilemma in environmental ethics: the balance between protecting endangered species and addressing human concerns. It requires you to discuss both perspectives and provide your personal viewpoint.

Sample Essay

Here’s a model answer that addresses the question effectively:

In recent years, the extinction of numerous animal species has become a pressing global concern. While some argue that our efforts should be directed towards safeguarding these endangered creatures, others contend that human problems deserve more attention. This essay will examine both viewpoints before presenting my own perspective on this complex issue.

Those who advocate for the protection of endangered species often emphasize the ecological importance of biodiversity. They argue that each species plays a crucial role in its ecosystem, and the loss of even one can have far-reaching consequences for the entire food chain and environmental balance. Furthermore, many endangered animals have potential medicinal or scientific value that remains unexplored. By allowing these species to go extinct, we may be losing valuable resources that could benefit humanity in the future.

On the other hand, proponents of prioritizing human problems argue that with limited resources, we should focus on addressing immediate human needs such as poverty, hunger, and access to healthcare. They contend that while animal conservation is important, it should not come at the expense of human welfare. Additionally, they might argue that many conservation efforts are costly and yield limited results, suggesting that these resources could be better spent on improving human lives.

In my opinion, the protection of endangered species and addressing human problems are not mutually exclusive goals. In fact, they are often interconnected. Healthy ecosystems provide numerous benefits to human societies, including clean air and water, fertile soil for agriculture, and natural resources for medicine and industry. By protecting endangered species and their habitats, we are also safeguarding these vital ecosystem services that support human well-being.

Moreover, I believe that as the dominant species on Earth, humans have a moral obligation to protect other forms of life. Our technological advancements and resource exploitation have contributed significantly to the current extinction crisis, and it is our responsibility to mitigate this damage. We should strive to find balanced solutions that address both human needs and environmental conservation.

In conclusion, while human problems are undoubtedly important, we must not neglect the protection of endangered species. A holistic approach that recognizes the interdependence of human welfare and environmental health is essential. By investing in conservation efforts alongside human development initiatives, we can create a more sustainable and equitable future for all life on Earth.

(Word count: 377)

Protecting endangered species

Writing Tips

When addressing this topic in your IELTS essay, keep the following points in mind:

1. Balance: Ensure you discuss both viewpoints equally before presenting your own opinion.
2. Specific examples: Use concrete examples of endangered species or conservation efforts to support your arguments.
3. Coherence: Maintain a logical flow between paragraphs, using appropriate transition words.
4. Vocabulary: Employ a range of environmental and conservation-related terms to demonstrate your lexical resource.
5. Grammar: Use a mix of simple and complex sentence structures to showcase your grammatical range.

Key Vocabulary

Here are some essential vocabulary items for this topic:

1. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
2. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
3. Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – preservation, protection, or restoration of the natural environment and wildlife
4. Extinction (noun) /ɪkˈstɪŋkʃn/ – the state or process of a species ceasing to exist
5. Habitat (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism
6. Poaching (noun) /ˈpəʊtʃɪŋ/ – illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals
7. Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/ – the action of clearing a wide area of trees
8. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources
9. Anthropogenic (adjective) /ˌænθrəpəˈdʒenɪk/ – originating from human activity
10. Biodegradable (adjective) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms

Conclusion

Protecting endangered species is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its importance in global environmental discussions. By understanding the key arguments, using appropriate vocabulary, and structuring your essay effectively, you can craft a compelling response to questions on this theme. Remember to practice with various question types, such as:

• The role of governments in protecting endangered species
• The economic impact of conservation efforts
• Balancing urban development with habitat preservation
• The ethics of prioritizing certain species over others in conservation efforts

By preparing for these potential questions, you’ll be well-equipped to tackle any endangered species-related task in your IELTS exam.

To further enhance your understanding of this topic, you might want to explore the importance of protecting endangered species and challenges in protecting endangered species. These resources can provide additional insights and vocabulary to strengthen your essays.