The topic of protecting natural habitats has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on past exam trends and the growing global concern for environmental conservation, it’s highly likely that this subject will continue to appear in future IELTS tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in recent IELTS exams:
Some people believe that protecting natural habitats is more important than economic development. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
This question directly addresses the conflict between environmental conservation and economic growth, a key issue in today’s world. Let’s analyze this question and provide sample essays for different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
This question requires you to:
- Understand the conflict between protecting natural habitats and economic development
- Form an opinion on which is more important
- Provide reasons and examples to support your stance
- Consider counterarguments to demonstrate a balanced view
Remember, there’s no right or wrong answer. The key is to present a well-structured argument with clear reasoning and relevant examples.
Sample Essay for Band 7-8
Here’s a sample essay that could potentially score in the Band 7-8 range:
In today’s rapidly developing world, the debate between environmental conservation and economic growth has become increasingly prominent. While economic development is crucial for improving living standards, I firmly believe that protecting natural habitats should take precedence due to its long-term significance for both the planet and human well-being.
Firstly, natural habitats play a vital role in maintaining biodiversity, which is essential for the Earth’s ecological balance. These ecosystems house countless species of plants and animals, many of which are yet to be discovered. By preserving these habitats, we safeguard the intricate web of life that sustains our planet. For instance, the Amazon rainforest, often called the “lungs of the Earth,” not only supports an incredible array of species but also plays a crucial role in regulating global climate patterns.
Secondly, natural habitats provide irreplaceable ecosystem services that are fundamental to human survival and well-being. These include air and water purification, soil fertility, and climate regulation. The economic value of these services, though often overlooked, far exceeds the short-term gains from habitat destruction. For example, mangrove forests along coastlines act as natural barriers against storms and tsunamis, providing protection that would be extremely costly to replicate through artificial means.
However, it’s important to acknowledge that economic development is necessary for improving living standards, especially in developing countries. The challenge lies in finding a balance between conservation and development. Sustainable development practices offer a promising solution, allowing for economic growth while minimizing environmental impact. Countries like Costa Rica have successfully implemented eco-tourism initiatives, demonstrating that habitat protection can coexist with and even drive economic development.
In conclusion, while economic development is important, the protection of natural habitats should be prioritized due to their irreplaceable ecological and economic value. The way forward lies in embracing sustainable development practices that allow for economic growth without compromising our natural heritage. This approach ensures a prosperous future not just for the current generation, but for all life on Earth.
(Word count: 309)
Sample Essay for Band 6-7
Here’s a sample essay that could potentially score in the Band 6-7 range:
In recent years, there has been a growing debate about whether protecting natural habitats is more important than economic development. While both are important, I believe that preserving natural habitats should be given more priority.
One main reason for protecting natural habitats is that they are home to many plants and animals. These species are important for the environment and for humans too. For example, forests provide homes for many animals and also help clean the air we breathe. If we destroy these habitats for economic reasons, we might lose many important species forever.
Another point is that natural habitats often provide resources that are important for the economy in the long term. For instance, many medicines come from plants found in rainforests. If we destroy these forests, we might lose the chance to discover new medicines in the future. Also, many people’s jobs depend on natural areas, like in tourism or fishing.
However, it’s true that economic development is also very important. People need jobs and money to live. But I think we can find ways to develop the economy without destroying nature. For example, we can use renewable energy instead of cutting down forests for fuel. We can also create jobs in areas like eco-tourism, which actually helps protect natural habitats.
In conclusion, while economic development is necessary, I believe protecting natural habitats is more important because of their long-term benefits for both the environment and the economy. We should try to find ways to develop our economies that don’t harm nature.
(Word count: 253)
Writing Tips for This Topic
When writing about the importance of protecting natural habitats, keep these points in mind:
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Use specific examples: Mention real natural habitats (e.g., Amazon rainforest, Great Barrier Reef) and their importance.
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Discuss ecosystem services: Explain how natural habitats benefit humans (e.g., air purification, water regulation).
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Consider both sides: Even if you agree with one side, acknowledge the importance of the other to show a balanced view.
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Use environmental vocabulary: Incorporate terms like ‘biodiversity’, ‘conservation’, ‘ecosystem’, and ‘sustainability’.
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Link to global issues: Connect habitat protection to broader topics like climate change and sustainable development.
Grammar and Vocabulary Tips
For Band 7-8:
- Use complex sentence structures: “While economic development is crucial for improving living standards, I firmly believe that protecting natural habitats should take precedence due to its long-term significance.”
- Employ advanced vocabulary: ‘biodiversity’, ‘ecosystem services’, ‘intricate web of life’, ‘sustainable development’
For Band 6-7:
- Use a mix of simple and compound sentences: “These species are important for the environment and for humans too.”
- Use more common vocabulary while still incorporating some topic-specific terms: ‘natural habitats’, ‘resources’, ‘renewable energy’
Key Vocabulary to Remember
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in the world or in a particular habitat
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
- Habitat (noun) /ˈhæbɪtæt/ – the natural home or environment of an animal, plant, or other organism
- Conservation (noun) /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – the action of preserving, protecting, or restoring the natural environment and wildlife
- Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – the ability to maintain at a certain rate or level, especially regarding ecological balance
- Deforestation (noun) /diːˌfɒrɪˈsteɪʃn/ – the action of clearing a wide area of trees
- Biodegradable (adjective) /ˌbaɪəʊdɪˈɡreɪdəbl/ – capable of being decomposed by bacteria or other living organisms
- Ecosystem services (noun phrase) /ˈiːkəʊsɪstəm ˈsɜːvɪsɪz/ – the benefits people obtain from ecosystems
- Ecotourism (noun) /ˈiːkəʊtʊərɪzəm/ – tourism directed toward exotic, often threatened, natural environments to support conservation efforts and observe wildlife
- Renewable resource (noun phrase) /rɪˈnjuːəbl rɪˈsɔːs/ – a natural resource that can be used repeatedly and replaced naturally
Conclusion
The importance of protecting natural habitats is a crucial topic in IELTS Writing Task 2, reflecting its significance in global discussions on environmental conservation and sustainable development. To excel in writing about this topic, focus on providing specific examples, using appropriate vocabulary, and considering multiple perspectives. Practice writing essays on related topics such as:
- The role of individuals in habitat conservation
- Government policies for protecting natural environments
- Balancing tourism and habitat preservation
- The impact of urbanization on natural habitats
- Technological solutions for habitat protection
By mastering these aspects, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle any question related to natural habitat protection in your IELTS Writing Task 2.