Marine ecosystem protection is a crucial topic that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on past exam trends and the growing global concern for environmental issues, it’s highly likely that questions related to marine pollution and conservation will continue to be featured in future tests. Let’s explore this topic through a sample question and analyze different approaches to answering it effectively.
Some people believe that protecting marine ecosystems should be the responsibility of governments, while others think that individuals should take action. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss the view that governments should be responsible for protecting marine ecosystems
- Discuss the view that individuals should take action to protect marine ecosystems
- Provide their own opinion on the matter
It’s important to address all parts of the question and provide a balanced argument before stating your personal stance.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The preservation of marine ecosystems is a critical global issue that has sparked debate over who should bear the primary responsibility for their protection. While some argue that this duty falls squarely on governments, others contend that individuals must take the initiative. In my opinion, a collaborative approach involving both parties is essential for effective marine conservation.
Proponents of government responsibility argue that authorities possess the resources and power to implement large-scale protective measures. Governments can enact and enforce legislation to regulate industrial pollution, fishing practices, and coastal development. For instance, they can establish marine protected areas, impose strict penalties for illegal fishing, and invest in advanced technologies for ocean clean-up. Moreover, governments have the capacity to negotiate international agreements, which is crucial given the transboundary nature of marine ecosystems.
On the other hand, those who advocate for individual action emphasize the cumulative impact of personal choices. Individuals can significantly reduce marine pollution by adopting environmentally friendly habits in their daily lives. This includes minimizing plastic use, properly disposing of waste, and making sustainable seafood choices. Furthermore, individuals can participate in local beach clean-ups, support conservation organizations, and raise awareness about marine issues within their communities. These grassroots efforts can create a ripple effect, inspiring wider societal change.
In my view, the most effective approach to protecting marine ecosystems involves a synergy between governmental and individual efforts. While governments provide the necessary framework and resources for large-scale conservation, individual actions are vital for implementing and reinforcing these measures at a local level. The complexity and scale of marine ecosystem threats necessitate a multi-faceted response that harnesses the strengths of both top-down and bottom-up approaches.
In conclusion, safeguarding our oceans requires a concerted effort from both governments and individuals. By combining robust policies and regulations with personal commitment and community engagement, we can create a powerful force for marine conservation. This collaborative approach offers the best hope for preserving the health and biodiversity of our invaluable marine ecosystems for future generations.
(Word count: 329)
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
The protection of marine ecosystems is a big issue today. Some people think governments should be responsible, while others believe individuals should take action. I will discuss both views and give my opinion.
Governments have a lot of power to protect the oceans. They can make laws to stop pollution and overfishing. For example, governments can create marine protected areas where fishing is not allowed. They can also fine companies that dump waste into the sea. Governments have money to fund research and clean-up projects. They can work with other countries to solve global ocean problems.
However, individuals also play an important role in protecting marine ecosystems. People can reduce their use of plastic and recycle more to prevent pollution. They can choose to eat sustainable seafood and avoid products that harm the oceans. Many people join beach clean-up events or volunteer for marine conservation groups. These actions may seem small, but they can make a big difference when many people do them.
In my opinion, both governments and individuals need to work together to protect marine ecosystems. Governments should provide the laws and resources, while individuals should change their daily habits and support conservation efforts. I think this combined approach is the best way to solve such a big problem.
To conclude, protecting marine ecosystems is everyone’s responsibility. Governments and individuals have different but important roles to play. By working together, we have a better chance of saving our oceans for the future.
(Word count: 252)
Sample Essay 3 (Band 5-6)
Marine ecosystems are important and need protection. Some people think governments should do this, but others say individuals should help. I will talk about both ideas and give my opinion.
Governments can do a lot to protect the ocean. They can make rules to stop pollution and too much fishing. They can punish companies that pollute the water. Governments have money to clean the ocean and do research. They can also talk to other countries about ocean problems.
But individuals can also help protect marine ecosystems. People can use less plastic and throw away trash properly. They can choose to eat fish that is caught in a good way. Some people clean beaches or join groups that help the ocean. These small actions can help a lot if many people do them.
I think both governments and people should work together to protect marine ecosystems. Governments should make rules and give money. People should change how they live to help the ocean. This way, everyone is doing something to help.
In conclusion, protecting marine ecosystems is important for everyone. Governments and individuals both have jobs to do. If we all work together, we can save the oceans.
(Word count: 188)
Explanation of Band Scores
Band 8-9 Essay:
- Fully addresses all parts of the task with a well-developed response
- Presents a clear position throughout the essay
- Uses a wide range of vocabulary with very natural and sophisticated control of lexical features
- Uses a wide range of structures with full flexibility and accuracy
- Demonstrates a logical organization with clear progression throughout
- Uses cohesive devices effectively
Band 6-7 Essay:
- Addresses all parts of the task, though some parts may be more fully covered than others
- Presents a relevant position, although the conclusions may become unclear or repetitive
- Uses an adequate range of vocabulary for the task, with some inaccuracies
- Uses a mix of simple and complex sentence forms
- Arranges information coherently and there is clear overall progression
- Uses cohesive devices but not always appropriately
Band 5-6 Essay:
- Addresses the task only partially; the format may be inappropriate in places
- Expresses a position but the development is not always clear
- Uses a limited range of vocabulary, but this is minimally adequate for the task
- May make noticeable errors in spelling and/or word formation that may cause some difficulty for the reader
- Uses only a limited range of structures with only rare use of subordinate clauses
- Presents information with some organization but there may be a lack of overall progression
Key Vocabulary to Remember
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Marine ecosystems (noun) /məˈriːn ˈiːkəʊsɪstəmz/ – The communities of living organisms in conjunction with the nonliving components of their environment in the sea.
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Conservation (noun) /kɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.
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Biodiversity (noun) /baɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – The variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat or ecosystem.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbl/ – Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level without depleting natural resources.
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Legislation (noun) /ledʒɪsˈleɪʃn/ – Laws, considered collectively.
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Overfishing (noun) /ˌəʊvəˈfɪʃɪŋ/ – The depletion of fish stocks through excessive fishing.
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Coastal development (noun phrase) /ˈkəʊstl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – The construction of buildings and infrastructure along coastlines.
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Grassroots efforts (noun phrase) /ˈɡrɑːsruːts ˈefəts/ – Actions or initiatives undertaken by ordinary people at a local level.
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Synergy (noun) /ˈsɪnədʒi/ – The interaction or cooperation of two or more organizations, substances, or other agents to produce a combined effect greater than the sum of their separate effects.
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Multi-faceted (adjective) /mʌltɪˈfæsɪtɪd/ – Having many different aspects or features.
In conclusion, the protection of marine ecosystems is a critical topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as ocean pollution, sustainable fishing practices, and the impact of climate change on marine life. Remember to address all parts of the question, use a range of vocabulary and complex structures, and organize your ideas coherently. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and further improvement.