Ocean pollution is a critical environmental issue that frequently appears in IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. Based on recent trends and the growing global concern for marine conservation, it’s highly likely that this topic will continue to be featured in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore a relevant question and analyze sample essays at different band scores to help you prepare effectively for this important subject.
Impact of ocean pollution
Analyzing the Question
Let’s consider the following IELTS Writing Task 2 question:
Some people believe that protecting oceans from pollution is crucial for the planet’s future. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this view?
This question asks for your opinion on the importance of protecting oceans from pollution. It’s an agree/disagree type question, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.
Sample Essays
Band 8-9 Essay
The health of our oceans is undeniably vital for the planet’s future, and I wholeheartedly agree that protecting them from pollution is of paramount importance. This essay will explore the crucial reasons behind this stance and discuss the far-reaching implications of ocean pollution.
Firstly, oceans play a pivotal role in regulating the Earth’s climate. They absorb a significant amount of carbon dioxide, acting as a natural buffer against global warming. However, pollution disrupts this delicate balance. When oceans become polluted, their ability to absorb carbon dioxide diminishes, potentially accelerating climate change. For instance, studies have shown that plastic pollution can reduce the ocean’s capacity to absorb CO2 by creating a barrier on the water’s surface.
Moreover, marine ecosystems are intrinsically linked to human survival. Oceans provide a substantial portion of the world’s food supply, with millions of people relying on fish and seafood as their primary source of protein. Pollution, particularly from plastics and chemical runoff, contaminates these food sources, posing serious health risks to both marine life and humans. The bioaccumulation of toxins in the food chain can lead to devastating consequences for entire ecosystems and the communities that depend on them.
Furthermore, oceans are hotbeds of biodiversity, home to countless species that are crucial for maintaining ecological balance. Pollution threatens this biodiversity, potentially leading to the extinction of numerous marine species. The loss of even a single species can have cascading effects throughout the ecosystem. For example, the decline of coral reefs due to pollution and climate change affects not only the myriad of species that depend on them but also coastal protection and tourism economies.
In conclusion, the protection of oceans from pollution is not just crucial; it is imperative for the planet’s future. The role of oceans in climate regulation, food security, and biodiversity conservation underscores their importance to life on Earth. As global citizens, we must take immediate and decisive action to reduce pollution and preserve these vital ecosystems for future generations. This can be achieved through stricter regulations on waste disposal, promotion of sustainable fishing practices, and increased public awareness about the importance of ocean conservation.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence and cohesion, with clear paragraphing and a logical flow of ideas. The introduction clearly states the writer’s position, and each body paragraph focuses on a distinct aspect of ocean protection. The conclusion effectively summarizes the main points and offers a call to action.
The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately and appropriately, including topic-specific terms like “bioaccumulation,” “ecosystems,” and “biodiversity.” It also employs a variety of complex sentence structures, showcasing advanced grammar usage.
The arguments are well-developed with relevant examples and explanations, demonstrating a sophisticated approach to the task. The essay fully addresses all parts of the question and presents a clear, consistent view throughout.
Band 6-7 Essay
I strongly agree that protecting oceans from pollution is very important for the future of our planet. There are several reasons why I believe this is true.
First, oceans are home to many different types of fish and animals. These creatures are important for the balance of nature. If the oceans become too polluted, many of these animals could die or become sick. This would be bad not only for the animals but also for people who rely on fishing for food and jobs. For example, in many coastal communities, fishing is the main source of income, and polluted oceans could destroy their way of life.
Second, oceans help control the Earth’s climate. They absorb heat and carbon dioxide, which helps to keep the planet’s temperature stable. If oceans become too polluted, they might not be able to do this job as well. This could lead to more extreme weather and faster climate change, which would affect everyone on Earth.
Lastly, oceans are important for human health and recreation. Many people enjoy swimming, surfing, and other activities in the ocean. If the water is polluted, it can make people sick. Also, many medicines come from plants and animals that live in the ocean. If these creatures die because of pollution, we might lose the chance to discover new medicines that could help people.
In conclusion, I believe that protecting oceans from pollution is very important for our planet’s future. It affects the animals that live in the sea, the Earth’s climate, and human health and enjoyment. We should all try to reduce pollution and take better care of our oceans.
(Word count: 276)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates a clear position and addresses the main points of the question. The structure is logical, with each paragraph focusing on a different aspect of ocean protection. The conclusion summarizes the main points effectively.
The vocabulary used is appropriate and relevant to the topic, though less sophisticated than the Band 8-9 essay. Sentence structures are generally varied, but there’s less complexity compared to higher band scores.
While the arguments are relevant and supported with examples, they could be developed further with more specific details or data. The essay shows a good understanding of the topic but lacks the depth and sophistication of a higher band score essay.
Key Vocabulary
- Paramount (adjective) /ˈpærəmaʊnt/ – of utmost importance
- Pivotal (adjective) /ˈpɪvətl/ – of crucial importance
- Intrinsically (adverb) /ɪnˈtrɪnsɪkli/ – in an essential or natural way
- Bioaccumulation (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊəˌkjuːmjʊˈleɪʃn/ – the gradual accumulation of substances in an organism
- Cascading (adjective) /kæˈskeɪdɪŋ/ – (of a process) occurring in stages, each of which triggers the next
- Imperative (adjective) /ɪmˈperətɪv/ – of vital importance; crucial
- Biodiversity (noun) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti/ – the variety of plant and animal life in a particular habitat
- Ecosystem (noun) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – a biological community of interacting organisms and their physical environment
Conclusion
The importance of protecting oceans from pollution is a critical topic that is likely to appear in future IELTS Writing Task 2 questions. By studying these sample essays and analyzing their structures, vocabulary, and arguments, you can better prepare for similar questions in your IELTS exam.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic or related themes such as:
- The role of governments in protecting marine environments
- The impact of plastic pollution on ocean ecosystems
- Individual responsibilities in reducing ocean pollution
Remember to practice regularly and focus on developing clear, well-structured arguments supported by relevant examples. Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Good luck with your IELTS preparation!
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