The topic of organic produce and its impact on health is becoming increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends, we can expect this subject to appear more frequently in future exams. Let’s examine a relevant question that has appeared in past IELTS tests:
Some people believe that organic food is healthier and safer than conventionally grown food, while others argue that the benefits of organic food are exaggerated. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that organic food is healthier and safer
- Discuss the opposing view that the benefits of organic food are exaggerated
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
Let’s explore sample essays for different band scores to illustrate how to approach this topic effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
In recent years, the debate surrounding organic versus conventionally grown food has intensified, with proponents on both sides presenting compelling arguments. While some individuals firmly believe in the health and safety benefits of organic produce, others contend that these advantages are overstated. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on this contentious issue.
Those who advocate for organic food often cite its reduced exposure to pesticides and chemicals as a primary health benefit. Organic farming practices prohibit the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, potentially lowering the risk of consuming harmful residues. Additionally, some studies suggest that organic produce may contain higher levels of certain nutrients, such as antioxidants, which could contribute to better overall health. Supporters also argue that organic farming methods are more environmentally sustainable, indirectly benefiting human health by preserving ecosystems and biodiversity.
On the other hand, skeptics argue that the purported benefits of organic food are exaggerated and not substantiated by conclusive scientific evidence. They contend that the nutritional differences between organic and conventional produce are negligible and that strict regulations ensure that conventionally grown food is safe for consumption. Furthermore, critics point out that organic farming often yields lower crop outputs, potentially making it less sustainable in feeding a growing global population.
In my opinion, while organic food may offer some benefits, the advantages are not as clear-cut as proponents suggest. The importance of sustainable farming practices cannot be overstated, but I believe that a balanced approach incorporating the best aspects of both organic and conventional farming methods is most beneficial. Consumers should focus on maintaining a varied diet rich in fruits and vegetables, regardless of whether they are organically or conventionally grown.
In conclusion, the debate over organic food’s health benefits remains complex and multifaceted. While organic produce may offer some advantages, it is essential to consider the broader implications of food production systems on global health and sustainability. As research in this field progresses, a more nuanced understanding of the true impact of organic farming on human health and the environment will likely emerge.
Explanation of Band 8-9 Score
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a high-scoring response:
- Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both views and providing a clear personal opinion.
- Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout the essay. Paragraphs are well-linked, and cohesive devices are used effectively.
- Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “synthetic pesticides” and “antioxidants.”
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex sentence structures with a high degree of accuracy.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The topic of organic food has become very popular recently. Some people think it is better for our health and safety, while others say its benefits are not as great as people claim. This essay will look at both sides of this argument.
Those who support organic food say it is healthier because it doesn’t have chemicals and pesticides. They believe that eating organic food can help prevent diseases and make us healthier. Also, some people think organic farming is better for the environment, which can indirectly help our health.
However, others argue that organic food is not much different from normal food. They say that the nutritional value is almost the same and that regular food is also safe to eat because of strict rules. They also point out that organic food is more expensive and may not be able to feed everyone in the world.
In my opinion, I think organic food might have some benefits, but it’s not clear if it’s really much better than normal food. I believe it’s more important to eat a balanced diet with lots of fruits and vegetables, whether they are organic or not. The importance of fair trade practices in global commerce is also something to consider when thinking about food production.
To conclude, the debate about organic food is complicated. While it may have some advantages, we need to think about how we can produce enough food for everyone in a sustainable way. As we learn more about this topic, we might better understand how organic farming affects our health and the environment.
Explanation of Band 6-7 Score
This essay demonstrates the qualities of a mid-range response:
- Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, but the discussion of each view and the personal opinion could be more developed.
- Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is generally well-organized, but the use of cohesive devices is sometimes repetitive.
- Lexical Resource: There is a sufficient range of vocabulary, but more sophisticated and varied language would elevate the score.
- Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentence structures with generally good control, though there are some errors.
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Organic farming (noun) /ɔːˈɡænɪk ˈfɑːmɪŋ/ – A method of farming that avoids the use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides.
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Conventional agriculture (noun) /kənˈvenʃənl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃər/ – Traditional farming methods that may include the use of synthetic chemicals.
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Pesticide residue (noun) /ˈpestɪsaɪd ˈrezɪdjuː/ – Traces of pesticides that remain on food products after application.
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Nutrient density (noun) /ˈnjuːtriənt ˈdensəti/ – The amount of beneficial nutrients in a food relative to its energy content.
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Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – The ability to maintain or support a process continuously over time.
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Crop yield (noun) /krɒp jiːld/ – The amount of agricultural production harvested per unit of land area.
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Food security (noun) /fuːd sɪˈkjʊərəti/ – The state of having reliable access to a sufficient quantity of affordable, nutritious food.
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Antioxidants (noun) /æntiˈɒksɪdənts/ – Substances that can prevent or slow damage to cells caused by free radicals.
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Ecosystem services (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm ˈsɜːvɪsɪz/ – The direct and indirect contributions of ecosystems to human well-being.
Conclusion
The topic of organic produce and its importance for health is a complex and nuanced subject that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The environmental impact of organic farming versus conventional agriculture
- The role of government in regulating food production methods
- The economic implications of widespread adoption of organic farming practices
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide well-reasoned arguments supported by examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.