The topic of clean energy access has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. Based on analysis of past exams and current global trends, it’s likely to appear more frequently in future tests. This makes it crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to discuss this subject. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that access to clean energy should be a basic human right. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analyzing the Question
This question asks for your opinion on whether access to clean energy should be considered a fundamental human right. Key points to consider:
- Understand the concept of “clean energy” and its importance
- Consider the implications of classifying something as a “basic human right”
- Develop arguments for and/or against this proposition
- Provide relevant examples to support your stance
Now, let’s look at sample essays for different band scores, starting with a high-scoring response.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the concept of clean energy has gained significant traction, with some advocates arguing that access to it should be recognized as a basic human right. While this proposition may seem radical at first glance, I strongly agree that clean energy access should indeed be considered a fundamental right for all individuals.
Firstly, access to clean energy is intrinsically linked to numerous other established human rights. For instance, the right to health and a clean environment are directly impacted by the type of energy sources available to communities. Polluting fossil fuels contribute to respiratory illnesses and environmental degradation, whereas clean energy alternatives like solar and wind power minimize these negative impacts. By ensuring access to clean energy, we can better safeguard these associated rights and improve overall quality of life.
Moreover, in our increasingly technology-dependent world, energy access has become crucial for education, economic participation, and social inclusion. Clean energy sources, which are often more sustainable and accessible in remote areas, can bridge the gap between urban and rural communities, fostering equality of opportunity. This aligns with the principles of human rights that emphasize non-discrimination and equal access to resources necessary for human development.
However, it is important to acknowledge the challenges in implementing universal access to clean energy. The initial costs of infrastructure development and technology deployment can be substantial, particularly for developing nations. Nevertheless, the importance of renewable energy for a sustainable future cannot be overstated. International cooperation, investment in research and development, and innovative financing models can help overcome these obstacles and make clean energy more accessible globally.
In conclusion, while recognizing access to clean energy as a basic human right may present implementation challenges, its fundamental importance to human well-being, environmental sustainability, and social equity makes a compelling case for its inclusion in the framework of universal human rights. As we progress towards a more sustainable future, ensuring equitable access to clean energy should be a priority for governments and international organizations alike.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The idea that access to clean energy should be a basic human right is an interesting one. I somewhat agree with this statement, as I believe clean energy is very important for people’s lives and the environment.
One reason I agree is that clean energy is good for people’s health. When we use dirty energy like coal, it causes air pollution which can make people sick. Clean energy like solar power doesn’t pollute the air, so it’s better for our health. This is especially important for children and old people who are more sensitive to pollution. If everyone had access to clean energy, it could help reduce health problems in many communities.
Another point is that clean energy is better for the environment. Climate change is a big problem, and using clean energy can help reduce greenhouse gases that cause global warming. If we consider access to clean energy a human right, it might encourage governments to invest more in renewable energy projects. This could help protect the environment for future generations.
However, making clean energy a basic right might be difficult to achieve. It would be expensive to provide clean energy to everyone, especially in poor countries. Some people might argue that there are other more important rights to focus on first, like access to food and water.
importance of renewable energy in rural areas is also worth considering. Rural areas often lack access to electricity, and clean energy solutions like solar panels could really improve life in these communities. This shows how important clean energy access can be for equality and development.
In conclusion, while there are challenges to making clean energy access a basic human right, I believe it is an important goal to work towards. Clean energy is crucial for our health, the environment, and equal development opportunities. Governments and organizations should prioritize increasing access to clean energy for everyone.
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
I think access to clean energy is very important, but I’m not sure if it should be a basic human right. There are good points for both sides of this question.
Clean energy is good because it doesn’t pollute the air like coal and oil. This means it’s better for our health and the environment. If everyone had clean energy, maybe there would be less global warming and fewer people getting sick from pollution. This is a reason why it could be a human right.
Also, clean energy can help poor people. In some villages, they don’t have electricity. If they get solar panels, they can have light at night and charge phones. This can help children study and adults work better. impact of renewable energy projects on local communities can be very positive.
But making clean energy a human right might be hard. It costs a lot of money to build wind farms and solar plants. Poor countries might not be able to afford it. Also, some places might not have enough sun or wind for these types of energy.
There are other important rights like food, water, and shelter. Maybe these should come first before clean energy. It’s hard to decide what should be a human right and what shouldn’t.
In conclusion, clean energy is very important, but I’m not sure if it should be a basic human right. It has many benefits, but there are also problems with making it a right. Maybe we should focus on making clean energy more available to everyone without calling it a human right.
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
This essay demonstrates excellent control of language, presenting a clear and well-developed argument. It uses a wide range of vocabulary and complex sentence structures accurately. The ideas are coherent and logically organized, with each paragraph focusing on a distinct aspect of the argument. The essay also addresses both sides of the issue and provides specific examples to support its points.
Band 6-7 Essay:
This essay shows a good understanding of the task and presents relevant ideas. The language used is generally clear, although there are some errors in grammar and vocabulary that do not impede understanding. The essay has a clear structure, but the ideas could be developed more fully. It addresses both sides of the argument but lacks the depth and sophistication of the higher band essay.
Band 5-6 Essay:
This essay demonstrates a basic understanding of the task but lacks depth in its argument. The language used is simple and repetitive, with noticeable errors in grammar and vocabulary. While the essay has a basic structure, the ideas are not always well-connected or fully developed. The argument lacks nuance and fails to fully explore the complexities of the issue.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Clean energy (noun) – Energy derived from renewable, zero-emission sources /kliːn ˈenədʒi/
- Fundamental right (noun phrase) – A basic, inalienable right /ˌfʌndəˈmentl raɪt/
- Sustainable (adjective) – Able to be maintained at a certain level without depleting natural resources /səˈsteɪnəbl/
- Infrastructure (noun) – The basic physical and organizational structures needed for operation /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/
- Equitable (adjective) – Fair and impartial /ˈekwɪtəbl/
- Renewable (adjective) – (of a resource) not depleted when used /rɪˈnjuːəbl/
- Pollution (noun) – The presence of harmful substances in the environment /pəˈluːʃn/
- Greenhouse gases (noun phrase) – Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ˌɡæsɪz/
- Implementation (noun) – The process of putting a decision or plan into effect /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃn/
- Sustainability (noun) – The ability to maintain at a certain level without depleting natural resources /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪlɪti/
In conclusion, the topic of clean energy access as a basic human right is a complex and relevant issue for IELTS Writing Task 2. To prepare for similar questions, practice developing balanced arguments, using specific examples, and incorporating relevant vocabulary. Remember to structure your essay clearly and address all parts of the question. You may want to consider practicing with related topics such as how renewable energy projects can reduce global carbon emissions or importance of recycling programs in schools to broaden your understanding of environmental issues.
We encourage you to try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS writing skills and prepare for the exam.