The topic of urbanization’s effects on natural habitats is increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, this theme has appeared frequently in past tests and is likely to continue as a significant subject in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that reflects this important environmental issue.
Some people believe that the rapid growth of cities has a negative impact on the environment and wildlife habitats. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to discuss their opinion on whether urban expansion negatively affects the environment and wildlife habitats. Key points to consider:
- The rapid growth of cities
- Negative impact on the environment
- Effects on wildlife habitats
- Your level of agreement or disagreement
It’s crucial to address all these aspects in your essay while clearly stating your position.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent decades, the exponential growth of urban areas has sparked considerable debate about its environmental consequences. I strongly agree with the view that rapid urbanization poses significant threats to both the environment and wildlife habitats, and this essay will elucidate the reasons behind my stance.
The most immediate and visible impact of urban expansion is the destruction of natural landscapes. As cities sprawl outwards, vast areas of forests, grasslands, and wetlands are cleared to make way for residential complexes, industrial zones, and infrastructure. This wholesale transformation of the land not only eliminates countless plant species but also disrupts entire ecosystems that have evolved over millennia. For instance, the rapid urbanization of coastal areas in Southeast Asia has led to the widespread destruction of mangrove forests, which serve as crucial buffers against storms and provide habitats for numerous marine species.
Furthermore, the growth of cities significantly contributes to pollution and climate change, which have far-reaching consequences for both the environment and wildlife. Urban areas are major sources of air and water pollution, with industrial emissions, vehicle exhaust, and improper waste management contaminating the surrounding ecosystems. The urban heat island effect, where cities experience higher temperatures than rural areas, exacerbates climate change and can alter local weather patterns. These changes can force wildlife to adapt rapidly or face extinction, as seen with the decline of certain butterfly species in urban areas due to rising temperatures.
The fragmentation of habitats is another critical issue stemming from urban expansion. As cities grow, they often create isolated pockets of natural areas, disconnecting wildlife populations and disrupting migration patterns. This fragmentation can lead to reduced genetic diversity within species and make them more vulnerable to local extinctions. The plight of large mammals like tigers in India, whose habitats have been severely fragmented by urban development, exemplifies this problem.
However, it is important to note that while the negative impacts of urbanization are significant, there are potential mitigating strategies. Urban planning that incorporates green spaces, wildlife corridors, and sustainable infrastructure can help alleviate some of the pressures on the environment. Cities like Singapore have demonstrated that it is possible to maintain biodiversity within urban areas through careful planning and the integration of nature into the cityscape.
In conclusion, the rapid growth of cities undeniably poses severe threats to the environment and wildlife habitats. The destruction of natural landscapes, increased pollution, and habitat fragmentation are all direct consequences of unchecked urban expansion. While there are ways to mitigate these impacts, it is crucial that we recognize the urgency of the situation and implement sustainable urban development practices to preserve our planet’s ecological balance.
(Word count: 420)
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay achieves a high band score for several reasons:
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Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a clear position with well-developed ideas and relevant examples.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear progression throughout. Each paragraph focuses on a specific aspect of the issue, and ideas are logically connected.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately. Complex terms related to the environment and urbanization are employed effectively.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately. Complex sentences are used without hindering communication.
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Development and Support: Each main point is well-elaborated with specific examples and explanations, showing a deep understanding of the topic.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
In today’s world, cities are growing very fast, and many people think this is bad for the environment and animals. I agree that rapid city growth can harm nature, but I also believe there are some good things about it.
One big problem with city growth is that it destroys natural areas where animals live. When we build new houses and roads, we often cut down trees and destroy grasslands. This means animals lose their homes and food sources. For example, in many countries, forests are being cut down to make space for new buildings, and this is causing many animals to become endangered.
Another issue is pollution. Cities produce a lot of pollution from cars, factories, and waste. This pollution can harm plants and animals, even if they don’t live in the city. The air pollution from cities can travel far and affect forests and lakes far away. Also, when it rains in cities, the water can carry pollutants into rivers and the sea, harming fish and other water animals.
However, cities can also help protect nature in some ways. When more people live in cities, it means less land is needed for houses in the countryside. This can leave more space for nature. Also, some cities are trying to be more environmentally friendly by creating parks and green spaces. These areas can provide homes for some animals and plants, even in the middle of the city.
Cities also allow people to live close together, which can be more efficient. For example, it’s easier to provide public transportation in cities, which can reduce pollution from cars. Living in apartments in cities also uses less energy for heating and cooling compared to separate houses in rural areas.
In conclusion, while I agree that the fast growth of cities can harm the environment and wildlife, I also think there are some positive aspects. The key is to find a balance and make sure cities grow in a way that minimizes harm to nature. We need to plan cities carefully to protect the environment and create spaces for wildlife within urban areas.
(Word count: 345)
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay achieves a band score of 6-7 for the following reasons:
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Task Response: The essay addresses the main parts of the task and presents a clear position. However, the ideas could be more fully developed.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the progression of ideas could be smoother. Paragraphing is logical.
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Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but more sophisticated and precise language could be used. Some repetition is present.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: A mix of simple and complex sentence structures is used. There are some errors, but they do not impede communication.
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Development and Support: Main points are supported with examples, but these could be more specific and detailed.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Urbanization (noun) /ˌɜːbənaɪˈzeɪʃən/ – the process of making an area more urban
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – all the living things in an area and the way they affect each other and the environment
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- Habitat fragmentation (noun phrase) /ˈhæbɪtæt ˌfræɡmənˈteɪʃən/ – the process where a large, continuous area of habitat is divided into smaller, isolated patches
- Urban sprawl (noun) /ˈɜːbən sprɔːl/ – the uncontrolled expansion of urban areas
- Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃən/ – the action of clearing a wide area of trees
- Pollution (noun) /pəˈluːʃən/ – the presence in or introduction into the environment of a substance which has harmful or poisonous effects
- Sustainable development (noun phrase) /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – economic development that is conducted without depletion of natural resources
- Wildlife corridor (noun phrase) /ˈwaɪldlaɪf ˈkɒrɪdɔː/ – areas of habitat connecting wildlife populations separated by human activities
- Urban heat island (noun phrase) /ˈɜːbən hiːt ˈaɪlənd/ – an urban area that is significantly warmer than its surrounding rural areas due to human activities
Conclusion
The topic of urbanization’s impact on natural habitats is a critical issue likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. By studying these sample essays and understanding the scoring criteria, you can better prepare for similar questions. Remember to practice writing your own essays on this topic, focusing on clear structure, relevant examples, and accurate language use.
For further practice, consider writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of urban planning in preserving biodiversity
- Balancing economic development and environmental protection in growing cities
- The impact of urbanization on climate change and potential solutions
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help improve your writing skills and prepare you effectively for the IELTS exam.