The topic of wildlife conservation and its impact on biodiversity has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 over the past few years. Based on analysis of past exams and current environmental trends, it’s likely to remain a popular subject in future tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:

Some people think that protecting wildlife is crucial for maintaining biodiversity, while others believe it hinders economic development. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.

This question touches on the complex relationship between The impact of wildlife conservation on biodiversity and economic progress, making it an excellent topic for IELTS candidates to explore.

Analysis of the Question

This question requires candidates to:

1. Discuss the view that wildlife protection is essential for biodiversity
2. Explain the opposing view that wildlife protection impedes economic growth
3. Provide and justify their own opinion on the matter

It’s crucial to address all parts of the question to achieve a high band score. Let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a Band 8-9 level response.

Band 8-9 Sample Essay

Wildlife conservation has become a contentious issue in recent years, with some arguing for its importance in maintaining biodiversity, while others claim it hampers economic development. In my opinion, while there may be short-term economic costs, the long-term benefits of protecting wildlife far outweigh any temporary setbacks.

Those who advocate for wildlife protection argue that it is crucial for maintaining the delicate balance of ecosystems and preserving biodiversity. They contend that each species plays a vital role in its habitat, and the loss of even one can have far-reaching consequences. For example, the reintroduction of wolves in Yellowstone National Park led to a cascade of positive changes, including the regeneration of vegetation and the return of other species. This demonstrates the intricate interconnectedness of ecosystems and highlights the importance of preserving all species.

On the other hand, opponents of wildlife conservation argue that it can impede economic growth, particularly in developing countries. They claim that protecting large areas of land for wildlife restricts opportunities for agriculture, mining, and urban development. For instance, in some African countries, efforts to protect elephants and their habitats have led to conflicts with local communities who rely on the land for their livelihoods. This perspective emphasizes the immediate economic needs of human populations over long-term environmental considerations.

However, I believe that this view is short-sighted and fails to consider the long-term economic benefits of biodiversity. Healthy ecosystems provide numerous services, such as pollination, natural pest control, and water purification, which are essential for sustainable agriculture and human well-being. Moreover, wildlife conservation can create economic opportunities through ecotourism, as seen in countries like Costa Rica and Kenya, where national parks and wildlife reserves attract millions of visitors annually, generating significant revenue.

In conclusion, while the tension between wildlife conservation and economic development is undeniable, I firmly believe that protecting wildlife is not only crucial for maintaining biodiversity but also beneficial for long-term economic sustainability. Governments and communities should work together to find innovative solutions that balance conservation efforts with economic needs, ensuring a sustainable future for both wildlife and human societies.

Explanation of Band 8-9 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a high band score (8-9) for several reasons:

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

2. 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”, “However”, “Moreover”).

3. Lexical Resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately (e.g., “contentious issue”, “delicate balance of ecosystems”, “intricate interconnectedness”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay demonstrates a wide range of grammatical structures used accurately and flexibly (e.g., complex sentences, passive voice, conditional statements).

5. Development of Ideas: Each main point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.

Now, let’s examine a Band 6-7 level response to the same question.

Band 6-7 Sample Essay

In recent years, there has been a debate about wildlife protection and its effects on biodiversity and economic development. Some people think it’s very important to protect animals, while others believe it can slow down economic growth. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.

People who support wildlife conservation say it’s necessary for keeping biodiversity. They think that all animals are important in nature and losing them can cause problems. For example, if we lose bees, it will be bad for plants because bees help pollinate them. Also, some people say that protecting animals can help with tourism, which is good for the economy.

However, others argue that protecting wildlife can make it difficult for countries to develop economically. They say that when large areas of land are set aside for animals, it leaves less space for farming, building cities, or other activities that can make money. For instance, in some places, people are not allowed to build houses or farms because the land is protected for animals. This can make it hard for people to earn a living.

In my opinion, I think we need to find a balance between protecting wildlife and developing the economy. While it’s true that we need to protect animals to keep our environment healthy, we also need to consider the needs of people. I believe that governments should try to find ways to do both things at the same time. For example, they could create jobs in eco-tourism or sustainable farming that don’t harm animals.

In conclusion, both wildlife conservation and economic development are important. We should try to find ways to protect animals without stopping countries from growing economically. This way, we can have a healthy environment and a good economy at the same time.

Explanation of Band 6-7 Score

This essay demonstrates the characteristics of a Band 6-7 score for the following reasons:

1. Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, albeit with less depth and precision than the Band 8-9 essay.

2. Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated (e.g., repetitive use of “For example”, “Also”).

3. Lexical Resource: The vocabulary used is adequate but less varied and precise compared to the higher band essay (e.g., “very important”, “bad for plants”, “make money”).

4. Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but with less flexibility and range than the Band 8-9 essay.

5. Development of Ideas: Main points are supported with examples, but the explanations are less detailed and nuanced.

The key differences between the Band 8-9 and Band 6-7 essays lie in the depth of analysis, sophistication of language use, and the precision of idea development. The higher band essay demonstrates a more nuanced understanding of the topic and expresses ideas with greater clarity and complexity.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Biodiversity (noun) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
2. Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – the protection of plants and animals, natural areas, and important structures
3. Ecosystem (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – all the living things in an area and the way they affect each other and the environment
4. Sustainable (adjective) – /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – able to continue over a period of time without damaging the environment
5. Ecotourism (noun) – /ˈiːkəʊˌtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism to places having unspoiled natural resources, with minimal impact on the environment
6. Habitat (noun) – /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism
7. Interconnectedness (noun) – /ˌɪntəkəˈnektɪdnəs/ – the state of having different parts or things connected or related to each other
8. Regeneration (noun) – /rɪˌdʒenəˈreɪʃn/ – the process of new growth replacing old or damaged parts
9. Livelihood (noun) – /ˈlaɪvlihʊd/ – a means of securing the necessities of life
10. Innovative (adjective) – /ˈɪnəveɪtɪv/ – introducing new ideas; original and creative in thinking

Key vocabulary for wildlife conservation essay

In conclusion, the topic of wildlife conservation and its impact on biodiversity is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare effectively, candidates should practice writing essays that balance different perspectives, use a range of vocabulary related to environmental issues, and develop their ideas with specific examples. As an exercise, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember to consider importance of wildlife protection for future generations and the role of animal conservation in biodiversity in your response.

For additional practice, you might want to explore related topics such as the impact of global warming on animal habitats or the impact of rising temperatures on wildlife. These themes are interconnected and could potentially appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions.