The topic of clean energy and its significance for future generations has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on sustainability, it’s highly likely that this theme will continue to appear in future exams. Let’s explore a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS tests and could potentially resurface in upcoming exams.
Some people think that in order to solve environmental problems, governments should make petrol (gasoline) more expensive. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
Analyzing the Question
This question directly addresses the importance of clean energy for future generations by focusing on a potential solution to environmental problems. It requires you to consider the effectiveness of increasing fuel prices as a government policy to tackle environmental issues. Your response should:
- Clearly state your position on the effectiveness of this approach
- Provide well-supported arguments for your viewpoint
- Consider potential counterarguments
- Conclude with a summary of your stance
Now, let’s examine two sample essays that address this prompt at different band levels.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
Environmental concerns have become increasingly pressing in recent years, prompting governments to consider various measures to address these issues. Some argue that raising petrol prices could be an effective solution. While I agree that this approach may have some benefits, I believe it is not a comprehensive solution to our environmental problems.
Increasing the cost of petrol could indeed have positive environmental impacts. Firstly, higher fuel prices would likely discourage excessive car use, encouraging people to opt for more environmentally friendly transportation methods such as cycling, walking, or public transport. This shift could lead to a significant reduction in carbon emissions, particularly in urban areas. Additionally, elevated fuel costs might incentivize car manufacturers to invest more heavily in developing fuel-efficient or electric vehicles, further contributing to long-term environmental benefits.
However, relying solely on increased petrol prices to solve environmental issues is problematic for several reasons. Firstly, this approach disproportionately affects lower-income individuals who may not have the means to switch to more expensive, environmentally friendly vehicles or may live in areas with limited public transportation options. This could exacerbate social inequality and potentially lead to public backlash against environmental policies. Moreover, while higher fuel prices might reduce personal vehicle use, they could also increase the cost of goods transportation, potentially leading to economic challenges that could overshadow environmental gains.
Instead of focusing solely on increasing petrol prices, governments should adopt a more holistic approach to addressing environmental issues. This could include investing in renewable energy sources, improving public transportation infrastructure, providing incentives for green technology development, and implementing comprehensive education programs about environmental conservation. Such a multi-faceted strategy would be more likely to gain public support and yield sustainable, long-term results.
In conclusion, while increasing petrol prices may play a role in addressing environmental problems, it should not be the primary or sole solution. A more comprehensive and balanced approach that considers both environmental and socio-economic factors is crucial for creating lasting, positive change for future generations.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Environmental problems are a big concern these days, and some people think that making petrol more expensive is a good way for governments to solve these issues. I partly agree with this idea, but I also think there are some problems with it.
On one hand, making petrol more expensive could help the environment. If petrol costs more, people might drive less and use their cars only when they really need to. This could mean less pollution from cars. Also, when petrol is expensive, more people might choose to use public transport like buses or trains, which is better for the environment.
However, there are also some downsides to this approach. If petrol becomes too expensive, it could cause problems for people who need to drive for work or live in areas without good public transport. It might also make the prices of many goods go up because transporting them would cost more. This could make life harder for many people, especially those who don’t earn much money.
I think that instead of just making petrol more expensive, governments should try other things too. They could improve public transport so more people can use it easily. They could also give people money to buy electric cars or make laws to reduce pollution from factories. Teaching people about climate change and how to protect the environment is also important.
In conclusion, while making petrol more expensive might help a bit with environmental problems, I don’t think it’s enough on its own. Governments need to use many different ways to solve environmental issues and make sure their solutions don’t cause other problems for people.
(Word count: 273)
Key Writing Tips
When addressing topics related to clean energy and environmental issues in IELTS Writing Task 2, keep these points in mind:
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Vocabulary: Use a range of environmental terms accurately. For higher band scores, incorporate more sophisticated vocabulary.
- Band 6-7: pollution, public transport, environment
- Band 8-9: carbon emissions, incentivize, sustainable, multi-faceted strategy
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Grammar: Demonstrate a variety of complex structures.
- Band 6-7: Simple and compound sentences with some complex structures
- Band 8-9: A mix of simple, compound, and complex sentences, including conditionals and passive voice
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Argument Development:
- Band 6-7: Present clear main ideas with some supporting details
- Band 8-9: Develop well-rounded arguments with specific examples and counterarguments
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Cohesion and Coherence:
- Band 6-7: Use basic linking words (however, also, because)
- Band 8-9: Employ a wide range of cohesive devices (moreover, consequently, in contrast)
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Task Response:
- Band 6-7: Address all parts of the question with a clear position
- Band 8-9: Fully address all parts of the question with a nuanced approach and well-developed ideas
Essential Vocabulary
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Renewable energy (n.) /rɪˈnjuːəbl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from sources that are naturally replenished
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Sustainability (n.) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/: The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time
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Carbon footprint (n.) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities
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Fossil fuels (n.) /ˈfɒsl fjuːəlz/: Non-renewable energy sources like coal, oil, and natural gas
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Eco-friendly (adj.) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment
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Greenhouse gases (n.) /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ˈɡæsɪz/: Gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect and global warming
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Energy-efficient (adj.) /ˈenədʒi ɪˈfɪʃnt/: Using less energy to perform the same function
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Biodiversity (n.) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
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Climate change (n.) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ/: Long-term changes in temperature and weather patterns
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Sustainable development (n.) /səˌsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/: Development that meets present needs without compromising future generations
Conclusion
The importance of clean energy for future generations is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. As environmental concerns continue to grow, you can expect to encounter questions related to renewable energy, sustainability, and climate change. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on topics such as:
- The role of individuals in promoting clean energy usage
- Government policies to encourage renewable energy adoption
- The economic impact of transitioning to clean energy sources
- Balancing economic growth with environmental protection
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide well-developed arguments supported by relevant examples. Feel free to practice by writing an essay on the prompt provided in this article and share it in the comments section for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you improve your writing skills and prepare you for success in your IELTS exam.