Biodiversity conservation is a critical topic that has gained significant attention in recent years. As an IELTS Writing Task 2 subject, it has appeared with increasing frequency, reflecting its global importance. Based on past exam trends and current environmental concerns, we can expect this theme to continue featuring prominently in future IELTS tests. Let’s explore some relevant essay questions and focus on one for a detailed analysis and sample responses.
Analyzing the Essay Question
For this guide, we’ll focus on the following question, which closely resembles those seen in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that protecting endangered species has no value to human lives. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question directly addresses the importance of preserving biodiversity by focusing on endangered species protection. It requires candidates to consider the relationship between conservation efforts and human welfare, a key aspect of the broader biodiversity debate.
Sample Essay for Band 7-8
Here’s a high-scoring sample essay addressing the question:
In today’s rapidly changing world, the protection of endangered species has become a contentious issue. While some argue that such conservation efforts offer no tangible benefits to humanity, I strongly disagree with this viewpoint. I believe that safeguarding endangered species is not only intrinsically valuable but also crucial for human well-being and survival.
Firstly, preserving endangered species is vital for maintaining ecological balance. Each species, no matter how small or seemingly insignificant, plays a unique role in its ecosystem. The loss of even a single species can trigger a domino effect, disrupting food chains and altering habitats in ways that ultimately affect human lives. For instance, the decline of bee populations worldwide threatens not only honey production but also the pollination of countless crops that humans rely on for food.
Moreover, endangered species often hold untapped potential for scientific and medical breakthroughs. Many life-saving drugs have been derived from plants and animals, some of which were once considered endangered. The rosy periwinkle, a plant native to Madagascar, has yielded compounds crucial in treating childhood leukemia and Hodgkin’s lymphoma. By protecting endangered species, we preserve a vast genetic library that could hold solutions to current and future health challenges.
Furthermore, the conservation of endangered species often goes hand in hand with the preservation of entire ecosystems. These efforts protect not only the target species but also their habitats, which provide essential services to human communities. Mangrove forests, home to numerous endangered species, act as natural barriers against coastal erosion and storm surges, protecting human settlements. Similarly, the conservation of endangered big cats in forest ecosystems helps maintain the health of these forests, which in turn regulate climate and water cycles that are crucial for human survival.
In conclusion, the protection of endangered species is far from being a frivolous endeavor with no value to human lives. It is, in fact, an investment in our own future and well-being. By preserving biodiversity, we maintain the delicate balance of nature, unlock potential medical and scientific advancements, and safeguard the ecosystems that sustain us. As stewards of this planet, it is our responsibility to ensure the survival of all species, not just for their intrinsic worth, but for the myriad ways in which they enrich and protect human life.
(Word count: 366)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a sample essay that would typically score in the Band 6-7 range:
In recent times, there has been a debate about whether protecting endangered species is valuable for humans. While some people think it’s not important, I disagree with this idea. I believe that saving endangered animals and plants is very important for people too.
One reason why protecting endangered species matters is because of the food chain. All animals and plants in nature are connected. If one species disappears, it can affect others, including humans. For example, if bees become extinct, many plants won’t get pollinated. This would mean less food for people to eat.
Another point is that endangered species can be useful for medicine. Many medicines come from plants and animals. Some of these might be endangered. If we don’t protect them, we might lose the chance to find new cures for diseases. This shows how saving endangered species can help human health.
Also, protecting endangered species often means protecting their homes, like forests or oceans. These places are important for people too. Forests give us clean air and help stop climate change. Oceans provide food and jobs for many people. By saving endangered animals, we also save these important places.
However, some people might say that protecting endangered species costs too much money. They might think this money could be used for other things to help people directly. While this is a fair point, I believe the long-term benefits of protecting nature are worth the cost.
In conclusion, I strongly believe that protecting endangered species is valuable for humans. It helps keep nature in balance, gives us chances for new medicines, and protects important environments. We should see saving endangered species as an investment in our own future.
(Word count: 290)
Key Points to Remember When Writing
When addressing topics related to biodiversity conservation in IELTS Writing Task 2, keep these points in mind:
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Understand the question: Ensure you fully grasp what the question is asking. In our example, it’s crucial to discuss the value of protecting endangered species specifically in relation to human lives.
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Take a clear position: State your opinion clearly in the introduction and maintain it throughout the essay. Both sample essays above disagree with the statement and provide supporting arguments.
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Provide specific examples: Use concrete examples to illustrate your points. The high-scoring essay mentions bees, the rosy periwinkle, and mangrove forests as specific examples.
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Use appropriate vocabulary: Incorporate relevant topic-specific vocabulary. The Band 7-8 essay uses terms like “ecological balance,” “ecosystem,” and “genetic library.”
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Maintain coherence: Ensure your ideas flow logically from one paragraph to the next. Use appropriate linking words and phrases to connect your ideas.
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Address counterarguments: In more complex essays, consider addressing potential counterarguments to demonstrate a balanced view of the topic.
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Conclude effectively: Summarize your main points and restate your position in the conclusion.
Important Vocabulary to Remember
Here are some key terms related to biodiversity conservation that can enhance your essay:
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Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/: The variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat.
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Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/: A biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment.
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Endangered species (noun phrase) /ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd ˈspiːʃiːz/: A species at risk of extinction.
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Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/: The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.
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Habitat (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt/: The natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism.
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Ecological balance (noun phrase) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈbæləns/: A state of equilibrium between living organisms and their environment.
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Biodiversity hotspot (noun phrase) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˈhɒtspɒt/: A biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity that is under threat from humans.
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Ecosystem services (noun phrase) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm ˈsɜːvɪsɪz/: The benefits people obtain from ecosystems.
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Genetic diversity (noun phrase) /dʒəˈnetɪk daɪˈvɜːsəti/: The total number of genetic characteristics in the genetic makeup of a species.
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Keystone species (noun phrase) /ˈkiːstəʊn ˈspiːʃiːz/: A species on which other species in an ecosystem largely depend.
Conclusion
The importance of preserving biodiversity is a crucial topic in contemporary environmental discourse and a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2. By understanding the multifaceted nature of biodiversity conservation and its impact on human lives, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle a range of potential questions on this subject.
For further practice, consider exploring related topics such as:
- The role of governments in protecting endangered species
- The economic value of biodiversity
- The impact of climate change on biodiversity
- The importance of marine biodiversity conservation
- The balance between development and biodiversity protection
Remember, the key to success in IELTS Writing Task 2 is to present a well-structured, coherent argument supported by relevant examples and appropriate vocabulary. Keep practicing, and you’ll be well-equipped to handle any biodiversity-related question that comes your way!
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