Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: Sample Essays on Urban Sprawl and Biodiversity (Band 6-9)

Urban sprawl and its impact on biodiversity is a topic that has gained significant attention in recent IELTS Writing Task 2 examinations. Based on an analysis of past test papers and current environmental trends, this theme is likely to appear more frequently in future tests. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in actual IELTS exams:

Some people believe that human activity has a negative impact on plant and animal species. Others think that human activity is necessary for their survival. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

Analyzing the Question

This question directly addresses the relationship between human activities (including urban sprawl) and their effects on biodiversity. It requires candidates to:

1. Discuss negative impacts of human activity on plants and animals
2. Explore how human intervention can be beneficial for species survival
3. Provide a personal opinion on the topic

Let’s examine three sample essays of varying quality to understand how to approach this question effectively.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

Human activities have profoundly altered ecosystems worldwide, leading to heated debates about their impact on plant and animal species. While some argue that these activities invariably harm biodiversity, others contend that human intervention is crucial for species preservation. In my opinion, while unchecked human actions can be detrimental, responsible human involvement is often necessary for conservation efforts.

Those who believe human activity negatively affects biodiversity point to numerous examples of habitat destruction and species extinction. Urban sprawl, for instance, has led to the fragmentation of natural habitats, disrupting ecosystems and threatening countless species. The Amazon rainforest, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” continues to shrink due to deforestation for agriculture and urban development, endangering unique flora and fauna. Moreover, pollution from industrial activities and the overexploitation of natural resources have pushed many species to the brink of extinction.

On the other hand, proponents of human intervention argue that many species now depend on human activity for survival. Conservation programs, often spearheaded by humans, have saved numerous species from extinction. The California condor, for example, was brought back from the brink through captive breeding programs and habitat protection efforts. Additionally, human-created environments like urban parks and gardens can provide new habitats for certain species, promoting biodiversity in unexpected ways. Furthermore, sustainable farming practices and responsible resource management can help maintain ecological balance while meeting human needs.

In my view, the reality lies between these two perspectives. While uncontrolled human activities undoubtedly pose significant threats to biodiversity, thoughtful and sustainable human interventions are often essential for species conservation. The key lies in striking a balance between human development and environmental protection. This can be achieved through comprehensive urban planning that incorporates green spaces and wildlife corridors, implementing strict regulations on pollution and resource extraction, and fostering a global culture of environmental stewardship.

In conclusion, human activity’s impact on plant and animal species is complex and multifaceted. While some human actions have led to devastating consequences for biodiversity, others have been instrumental in preserving endangered species. Moving forward, it is crucial that we critically examine our interactions with the natural world and strive to develop in harmony with, rather than at the expense of, the rich tapestry of life on our planet.

(Word count: 398)

Urban sprawl impact on biodiversity

Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)

This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that justify a high band score:

1. Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating a personal opinion.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing. Ideas flow logically, and cohesive devices are used effectively (e.g., “On the other hand,” “Moreover,” “Furthermore”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is sophisticated and precise (e.g., “fragmentation,” “overexploitation,” “spearheaded,” “stewardship”). There’s a good range of less common words used accurately.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a wide range of complex structures accurately. Sentence structures are varied, and there are no noticeable errors.

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations. The essay shows depth of thought and critical analysis.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

People have different opinions about how humans affect plants and animals. Some think we only cause problems, while others believe we help species survive. I think both views have some truth, but humans need to be more careful about how we treat nature.

Many people say that humans harm plants and animals. This is often true because we destroy habitats when we build cities and farms. For example, when forests are cut down, many animals lose their homes. Pollution is another big problem caused by humans that hurts wildlife. Cars and factories release chemicals that can make animals sick or kill plants.

However, humans also do things to help species survive. We have programs to protect endangered animals and plants. Zoos and botanical gardens keep rare species safe and help them breed. Some people also create new habitats like parks in cities where birds and insects can live. Farmers are learning to use methods that don’t harm the environment as much.

In my opinion, humans can both harm and help nature. We need to find a balance between using resources for our needs and protecting the environment. I think education is important so people understand how their actions affect plants and animals. Governments should make laws to stop pollution and protect natural areas. We should also support conservation projects that help endangered species.

To conclude, human activity can be both good and bad for plants and animals. While we have caused many problems, we also have the ability to help species survive. It’s important that we take responsibility for our actions and work to protect biodiversity.

(Word count: 287)

Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)

This essay demonstrates good qualities but has some limitations:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and providing a personal opinion. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure with introduction, body paragraphs, and conclusion. Basic cohesive devices are used, but there’s room for more sophisticated linking of ideas.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is generally appropriate, with some attempts at less common words (e.g., “endangered,” “biodiversity”). However, there’s less precision and sophistication compared to the Band 8-9 essay.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences with generally good control. There are no major errors, but the range of structures is more limited than in higher band essays.

5. Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with examples, but the ideas could be explored in more depth. The essay presents a balanced view but lacks the nuanced analysis seen in higher band responses.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Humans do many things that affect plants and animals. Some people think this is bad, but others say it helps species live. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.

First, many humans do bad things to nature. They cut down trees to make buildings and roads. This makes animals lose their homes. Also, factories and cars make pollution that hurts plants and animals. Some animals are dying because of these problems.

But humans also try to help nature sometimes. They make places like national parks to protect animals. Some people work to save endangered animals from dying out. They also teach others about why nature is important.

I think humans can be both good and bad for plants and animals. We need to be more careful about how we use nature. We should try to pollute less and protect more forests. It’s important to think about animals and plants when we build new things.

In conclusion, humans affect nature in different ways. We need to do more good things and less bad things to help plants and animals survive.

(Word count: 179)

Essay Analysis (Band 5-6)

This essay demonstrates basic competence but has several limitations:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses the main parts of the task but in a simplistic manner. The discussion lacks depth and detail.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: There’s a basic structure, but paragraphing is not always logical. Simple cohesive devices are used, but the linking of ideas is often mechanical.

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is limited and repetitive. There are some relevant topic-specific words, but the range is narrow.

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Sentences are mostly simple or compound. There’s a lack of complex structures, and some grammatical errors are present.

5. Development of Ideas: Ideas are present but underdeveloped. Examples are basic and lack specificity.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.

2. Urban sprawl (noun) /ˈɜːbən sprɔːl/: The uncontrolled expansion of urban areas into surrounding rural land.

3. Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.

4. Habitat fragmentation (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃən/: The process by which large areas of habitat are divided into smaller, isolated patches.

5. Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃən/: The protection, preservation, and careful management of natural resources and the environment.

6. Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources or causing ecological damage.

7. Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃən/: The action of clearing a wide area of trees.

8. Ecological balance (noun) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈbæləns/: A state of dynamic equilibrium within a community of organisms in which genetic, species and ecosystem diversity remain relatively stable.

Conservation efforts for endangered species

Conclusion

Understanding how to effectively address topics like urban sprawl and biodiversity in IELTS Writing Task 2 is crucial for achieving a high band score. The sample essays provided demonstrate different levels of proficiency, highlighting the importance of comprehensive task achievement, coherent organization, diverse vocabulary, and grammatical accuracy.

For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:

1. The role of urban planning in preserving biodiversity
2. Balancing economic development with environmental conservation
3. The impact of climate change on urban ecosystems

Remember, the key to improving your IELTS Writing skills is consistent practice and self-reflection. Try writing your own essay on the given topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare you for success in the IELTS exam.