The topic of wildlife protection for future generations is becoming increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. Based on recent trends, we can expect this theme to appear more frequently in upcoming tests. Let’s examine a relevant question that has been featured in past IELTS exams:
Some people believe that protecting wildlife is crucial for future generations, while others think there are more important issues to focus on. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
Analyzing the Question
This question presents a balanced argument topic, asking candidates to discuss two contrasting viewpoints and provide their personal opinion. The key aspects to address are:
- The importance of wildlife protection for future generations
- Other issues that may be considered more important
- Your personal stance on the matter
Let’s explore sample essays for different band scores to understand how to approach this task effectively.
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8-9)
The preservation of wildlife for the benefit of future generations is a topic that has garnered significant attention in recent years. While some argue that this should be a priority, others contend that there are more pressing matters to address. In my opinion, wildlife conservation is indeed crucial, but it should be balanced with other important global issues.
Those who advocate for wildlife protection argue that it is essential for maintaining ecological balance and biodiversity. They believe that future generations have the right to inherit a planet with diverse species and ecosystems. Furthermore, many assert that wildlife plays a vital role in scientific research, medicine, and technological advancements, which could be invaluable for future societies. This perspective aligns with the growing awareness of how climate change affects wildlife habitats and the need for immediate action.
On the other hand, opponents argue that there are more urgent issues facing humanity, such as poverty, hunger, and access to healthcare and education. They contend that resources should be allocated to improving human lives directly rather than focusing on wildlife. This viewpoint emphasizes the immediate needs of people, particularly in developing countries, where basic necessities are often lacking.
In my view, both wildlife protection and addressing human needs are interconnected and equally important. The preservation of ecosystems and biodiversity is crucial not only for future generations but also for current global stability. Wildlife contributes to food security, climate regulation, and natural resource availability, which are all essential for human well-being. Moreover, the impact of illegal wildlife trade on endangered species can have far-reaching consequences on global health and economies.
In conclusion, while there are undoubtedly pressing human issues that require attention, the protection of wildlife should not be overlooked. A balanced approach that addresses both environmental conservation and human development is necessary for a sustainable future. Governments and international organizations should strive to integrate wildlife protection into broader development strategies, recognizing that the well-being of humans and nature are intrinsically linked.
Essay Analysis (Band 8-9)
This essay demonstrates excellent coherence, cohesion, and vocabulary use, warranting a high band score. Here’s why:
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Task Achievement: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: Ideas are logically organized with clear progression throughout. Paragraphs are well-linked using appropriate cohesive devices.
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Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with some less common phrases like “ecological balance” and “intrinsically linked.”
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay displays a variety of complex structures used accurately, with only minor errors.
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Tone and Academic Style: The writing maintains a formal, academic tone throughout, presenting ideas objectively and analytically.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6-7)
Many people think that protecting wildlife is very important for the future, but others believe we should focus on other problems. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
On one hand, protecting wildlife is crucial because animals and plants are important for the environment. If we lose too many species, it can affect the balance of nature. Also, many animals and plants might have uses we haven’t discovered yet, like new medicines. Some people say we need to save wildlife so our children and grandchildren can see these animals in the future.
However, other people think there are more important things to worry about. They say we should focus on problems like poverty, education, and healthcare. These issues affect people’s lives right now, and they argue that helping humans should be the top priority. They believe that spending money on wildlife protection takes resources away from these urgent human needs.
The role of governments in protecting endangered wildlife is important, but it’s also necessary to consider other issues. In my opinion, we need to find a balance between protecting wildlife and solving human problems. I think both are important and connected. For example, if we destroy nature, it can lead to more problems for humans in the future.
In conclusion, while there are many important issues to address, I believe that protecting wildlife should not be ignored. We should try to find ways to help both wildlife and humans at the same time. This might be challenging, but it’s necessary for a better future for everyone.
Essay Analysis (Band 6-7)
This essay demonstrates good task achievement and coherence but has room for improvement in vocabulary and grammatical range. Here’s a breakdown:
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Task Achievement: The essay addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and stating the writer’s opinion.
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Coherence and Cohesion: The ideas are organized logically, but the use of cohesive devices is somewhat limited.
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Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is adequate but lacks the sophistication and range seen in higher band essays. There’s some repetition of words and phrases.
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Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences but lacks the variety and accuracy of higher band essays.
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Tone and Academic Style: The writing maintains a generally appropriate tone but could be more formal and academic in style.
Key Vocabulary for Wildlife Protection Essays
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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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Conservation (noun) – /ˌkɒnsəˈveɪʃn/ – The protection of plants, animals, and natural areas.
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Endangered species (noun phrase) – /ɪnˈdeɪndʒəd ˈspiːʃiːz/ – A species at risk of extinction.
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Habitat loss (noun phrase) – /ˈhæbɪtæt lɒs/ – The destruction or fragmentation of the natural living space of animals and plants.
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Sustainable development (noun phrase) – /səˈsteɪnəbl dɪˈveləpmənt/ – Economic development conducted without depletion of natural resources.
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Poaching (noun) – /pəʊtʃɪŋ/ – The illegal hunting or capturing of wild animals.
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Ecological balance (noun phrase) – /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkl ˈbæləns/ – A state of dynamic equilibrium within a community of organisms.
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Wildlife corridor (noun phrase) – /ˈwaɪldlaɪf ˈkɒrɪdɔː/ – Areas of habitat connecting wildlife populations separated by human activities.
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Biodiversity hotspot (noun phrase) – /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsəti ˈhɒtspɒt/ – A biogeographic region with significant levels of biodiversity under threat from humans.
Conclusion
The topic of wildlife protection for future generations is likely to remain relevant in IELTS Writing Task 2 exams. To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on related themes such as:
- The impact of urbanization on wildlife habitats
- The role of education in promoting wildlife conservation
- Balancing economic development with environmental protection
- The ethical considerations of wildlife conservation versus human needs
Remember to structure your essays clearly, use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures, and provide well-reasoned arguments supported by examples. Practice writing your own essays on this topic and share them in the comments section below for feedback and discussion with fellow IELTS candidates.