Mastering IELTS Writing Task 2: High-Scoring Sample Essays on Pet Adoption vs. Purchasing

The topic of pet adoption versus purchasing is an increasingly relevant issue in modern society, reflecting changing attitudes towards animal welfare and responsible pet ownership. This subject has appeared in various forms in past IELTS Writing Task 2 questions and is likely to continue being a popular topic for future exams. Given its contemporary significance and ethical implications, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to discuss this subject.

Based on our analysis of previous IELTS exams and current trends, we’ve identified a relevant question that closely mirrors the format and complexity of actual IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts:

Some people believe that it is better to adopt pets from animal shelters rather than buying them from pet shops or breeders. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this opinion?

Analyzing the Question

This question requires candidates to express their opinion on the debate between pet adoption and purchasing. Key points to consider:

1. The main topic is the comparison between adopting pets from shelters and buying them from shops or breeders.
2. Candidates need to clearly state their position (agree, disagree, or partially agree).
3. The phrase “To what extent” indicates that a nuanced response is expected, considering various aspects of the issue.
4. The essay should discuss reasons for preferring adoption or purchasing, potentially touching on ethical, economic, and social factors.

Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)

In recent years, the debate between adopting pets from shelters and purchasing them from shops or breeders has gained significant traction. I strongly agree with the view that adoption is the preferable option, as it offers numerous benefits not only to the animals but also to society at large.

The primary argument in favor of pet adoption is the ethical consideration of giving a home to animals in need. Shelters are often overcrowded with abandoned or stray animals, many of which face euthanasia if not adopted. By choosing to adopt, individuals directly contribute to saving a life and reducing the burden on animal welfare systems. This ethical stance aligns with the growing societal awareness of animal rights and welfare.

Moreover, adopting from shelters typically proves more cost-effective than purchasing from breeders or pet shops. Shelter animals are usually vaccinated, spayed or neutered, and sometimes even microchipped, all included in the adoption fee. This not only saves the new owner money but also ensures that the pet is ready for its new home. In contrast, pets from shops or breeders often come with additional health-related expenses.

Another compelling reason to favor adoption is the positive impact it has on combating unethical breeding practices. Many pet shops source their animals from puppy or kitten mills, which often prioritize profit over the well-being of the animals. By adopting, people indirectly discourage these practices and promote more responsible pet ownership.

However, it is important to acknowledge that there are situations where purchasing from reputable breeders might be justified. For instance, individuals with specific needs, such as those requiring hypoallergenic pets or working dogs with particular traits, may find it necessary to seek out specialized breeders. Nevertheless, these cases are exceptions rather than the norm.

In conclusion, while there may be specific circumstances that warrant purchasing from breeders, the overwhelming benefits of adoption make it the superior choice for most prospective pet owners. By choosing adoption, individuals can make an ethical decision that saves lives, reduces costs, and contributes to the welfare of animals in society.

Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)

The question of whether it is better to adopt pets from shelters or buy them from pet shops is a topic of much debate. In my opinion, I agree that adopting pets from shelters is generally a better choice, although there are some situations where buying from a shop might be necessary.

One main reason why adoption is better is that it helps animals in need. Many animals in shelters have been abandoned or rescued from bad situations. By adopting them, we give these animals a second chance at a happy life. This is not only good for the animals but also makes the new owners feel good about helping.

Another advantage of adoption is that it is usually cheaper than buying from a pet shop. Shelter pets often come with their vaccinations and other medical treatments already done, which can save a lot of money. Pet shops, on the other hand, can be quite expensive, especially for purebred animals.

Adopting from shelters also helps to reduce the problem of too many stray animals. When people adopt, it means fewer animals are left in shelters or on the streets. This is good for communities because it reduces problems like diseases that stray animals can spread.

However, there are times when buying from a pet shop might be the only option. For example, if someone has allergies and needs a specific breed that doesn’t trigger their allergies, they might need to buy from a specialized breeder. Also, some people might want a particular breed of dog or cat that is not commonly found in shelters.

In conclusion, while there are some situations where buying from a pet shop is necessary, I believe that in most cases, adopting from a shelter is the better choice. It helps animals in need, saves money, and benefits the community. Therefore, I encourage people to consider adoption first when looking for a new pet.

Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)

Nowadays, many people talk about whether it’s better to adopt pets from animal shelters or buy them from pet shops. I think adopting pets from shelters is usually better, but sometimes buying from shops can be okay too.

First, adopting pets from shelters is good because it helps animals that don’t have homes. Many animals in shelters are lonely and need families. When we adopt them, we make them happy and give them a good life. This makes us feel good too because we are helping.

Also, adopting from shelters is often cheaper than buying from shops. Shelters usually give pets their shots and make sure they are healthy before letting people adopt them. This can save people money. Pet shops can be very expensive, especially for special types of dogs or cats.

Another good thing about adoption is that it helps stop too many animals from being on the streets. When people adopt, there are fewer animals without homes. This is good for cities and towns because there are fewer problems with stray animals.

But sometimes, buying from a pet shop might be necessary. For example, if someone is allergic to most animals, they might need to buy a special type of pet that won’t make them sick. Or if someone really wants a specific kind of dog or cat, they might not find it in a shelter.

In conclusion, I think adopting pets from shelters is usually the best choice. It helps animals, saves money, and is good for communities. But in some cases, buying from a shop can be okay too. The most important thing is to give a pet a good home, no matter where it comes from.

Explanation of Band Scores

Band 8-9 Essay:

• Task Response: Fully addresses all parts of the task with a clear position and well-developed ideas.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Logically organized with clear progression and effective use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Wide range of vocabulary used with flexibility and precision.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy.

Band 6-7 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses all parts of the task, although some aspects are more fully covered than others.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Information and ideas are generally well organized with some use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some attempts at less common words.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Mix of simple and complex sentence forms with good control, though with some errors.

Band 5-6 Essay:

• Task Response: Addresses the task, but the format is simple and some key points lack depth.
• Coherence and Cohesion: Overall coherent but with some repetition and inadequate use of cohesive devices.
• Lexical Resource: Limited range of vocabulary, mainly simple words with some inaccuracies.
• Grammatical Range and Accuracy: Limited range of structures with frequent grammatical errors.

Key Vocabulary to Remember

1. Adoption (noun) – /əˈdɒpʃən/ – The act of taking something on or starting to use something.
2. Ethical (adjective) – /ˈeθɪkl/ – Relating to moral principles or the branch of knowledge dealing with these.
3. Euthanasia (noun) – /ˌjuːθəˈneɪziə/ – The painless killing of a patient suffering from an incurable and painful disease or in an irreversible coma.
4. Cost-effective (adjective) – /kɒst ɪˈfektɪv/ – Effective or productive in relation to its cost.
5. Reputable (adjective) – /ˈrepjətəbl/ – Having a good reputation.
6. Hypoallergenic (adjective) – /ˌhaɪpəʊˌæləˈdʒenɪk/ – Relatively unlikely to cause an allergic reaction.
7. Overcrowded (adjective) – /ˌəʊvəˈkraʊdɪd/ – Filled with too many people or things.
8. Stray (adjective) – /streɪ/ – Having wandered from or left without an owner or keeper.
9. Euthanize (verb) – /ˈjuːθənaɪz/ – Put (an animal) to death humanely.
10. Microchipped (adjective) – /ˈmaɪkrəʊˌtʃɪpt/ – (Of an animal) having had a microchip implanted for identification purposes.

IELTS Writing Task 2 essay structure

Conclusion

The topic of pet adoption versus purchasing is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams due to its social and ethical implications. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:

1. The responsibility of pet ownership in urban environments.
2. The impact of social media on pet adoption rates.
3. Government policies to encourage pet adoption over purchasing.
4. The role of education in promoting responsible pet ownership.

We encourage you to practice writing your own essay on the topic provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS aspirants. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your writing skills and prepare for the IELTS Writing Task 2.