The topic of diplomacy and international cooperation has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past five years. Based on analysis of past exam questions and current global trends, this subject is likely to remain significant in future tests. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question that focuses on this important topic.
The effects of economic sanctions on global markets demonstrate why understanding international cooperation is crucial for IELTS candidates.
Analysis of the Question
Some people believe that countries should cooperate and work together to solve global environmental problems. Others say each country should deal with these issues independently. Discuss both views and give your opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Examine two contrasting viewpoints about international cooperation
- Provide supporting arguments for both perspectives
- Express and justify a personal opinion
- Relate specifically to environmental issues
International leaders discussing environmental cooperation
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.0)
In today’s interconnected world, environmental challenges transcend national boundaries, sparking debate about whether nations should tackle these issues collaboratively or independently. While both approaches have merit, I firmly believe that international cooperation is essential for effective environmental protection.
Those who advocate for independent action argue that each country has unique environmental challenges and resources. For instance, nations with large forest coverage face different issues compared to desert countries. Furthermore, independent action allows for faster decision-making and implementation of policies tailored to local conditions. Countries can also maintain complete control over their natural resources and environmental policies without external interference.
However, how international cooperation can address climate change demonstrates the superiority of collaborative approaches. Global environmental problems like climate change, ocean pollution, and ozone depletion require coordinated international effort. When nations work together, they can share technological innovations, pool resources, and implement standardized regulations. The Paris Agreement exemplifies how international cooperation can mobilize global action against environmental threats.
In my view, while countries should maintain some autonomy in environmental management, global cooperation is paramount. Environmental issues are inherently interconnected – pollution from one country affects others, and ecosystems don’t recognize national borders. The role of cultural exchange in global peace similarly shows how international collaboration can yield better outcomes than isolated efforts.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Environmental problems are very serious nowadays, and countries have different ideas about how to solve them. Some people think countries should work together, while others believe each country should solve these problems by themselves. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one side, some people think each country should handle environmental problems alone. They say that every country has different problems and different ways to solve them. For example, some countries have problems with air pollution from factories, while others have problems with forest fires. Also, when countries work alone, they can make decisions faster without waiting for other countries to agree.
However, I think working together is better. Environmental problems affect everyone, not just one country. When countries cooperate, they can share good ideas and help each other. For example, rich countries can help poor countries with money and technology to reduce pollution. Also, problems like global warming cannot be solved by one country alone.
In conclusion, while working independently has some advantages, I strongly believe that international cooperation is necessary to solve environmental problems. Countries should work together because environmental issues affect everyone on Earth.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.0 Essay Analysis:
- Task Response (8): Thoroughly addresses all parts of the task with well-developed arguments
- Coherence and Cohesion (8): Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource (8): Sophisticated vocabulary with natural and precise usage
- Grammar (8): Wide range of complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis:
- Task Response (6): Addresses the task but with less depth
- Coherence and Cohesion (7): Clear overall progression but simpler linking
- Lexical Resource (6): Adequate vocabulary but less sophisticated
- Grammar (7): Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- transcend (verb) /trænˈsend/ – to go beyond normal limits
- paramount (adjective) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – supreme; more important than anything else
- autonomy (noun) /ɔːˈtɒnəmi/ – freedom to govern oneself
- inherently (adverb) /ɪnˈhɪərəntli/ – in an essential or permanent way
- mobilize (verb) /ˈməʊbəlaɪz/ – organize resources for a purpose
- implementation (noun) /ˌɪmplɪmenˈteɪʃən/ – the process of putting a plan into action
- coordinated (adjective) /kəʊˈɔːdɪneɪtɪd/ – organized effectively
For additional practice, try writing your own essay on this topic and share it in the comments. Consider exploring topics like role of education in promoting global peace for broader perspective on international cooperation.
