The topic of renewable energy investment has been increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in various forms over the past few years. Based on analysis of past exam papers and how can renewable energy help reduce global warming, this topic is likely to remain significant in future tests.
Task Analysis
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in renewable energy sources like solar and wind power, while others think traditional energy sources like coal and oil are still more reliable. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss advantages of investing in renewable energy
- Consider arguments for maintaining traditional energy sources
- Present and justify their personal viewpoint
Band 8.5 Sample Essay
As the world grapples with climate change, Should governments invest in renewable energy or traditional sources has become a crucial debate. While some advocate for increased government investment in renewable energy, others maintain that conventional sources remain more dependable. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my position.
Proponents of renewable energy investment argue that it offers numerous long-term benefits. Firstly, solar and wind power generate electricity without producing harmful emissions, helping combat climate change and improve air quality. Additionally, renewable technologies are becoming increasingly cost-effective, with prices of solar panels and wind turbines falling significantly over the past decade. This makes them increasingly competitive with fossil fuels.
However, supporters of traditional energy sources raise valid concerns. Coal and oil plants provide consistent power output regardless of weather conditions, unlike solar or wind installations. Furthermore, many countries already have extensive infrastructure for fossil fuel power generation, making it more economically viable in the short term to maintain these systems rather than building new renewable facilities.
In my opinion, governments should prioritize renewable energy investment while maintaining some traditional capacity during the transition period. Should governments provide subsidies for green energy, as this would accelerate technological development and help achieve economies of scale. The environmental and health benefits far outweigh short-term economic considerations.
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, there is a debate about whether governments should spend more money on renewable energy or keep using traditional sources. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Some people think renewable energy is better. First, it is clean and doesn’t make pollution like coal and oil do. Second, the sun and wind are free, so after building the equipment, the energy is cheaper. Also, these sources will never run out, unlike oil which will finish one day.
But other people prefer traditional energy sources. They say that coal and oil plants work all the time, even at night or when there is no wind. Also, many countries already have coal power stations, so it is cheaper to keep using them instead of building new solar farms.
I think Should governments subsidize renewable energy sources? because it is better for the environment. Although it costs more money now, it will save money in the future and help stop global warming. Governments should slowly change from old energy to new energy.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8.5 Essay Features:
- Sophisticated vocabulary and complex structures
- Clear organization with logical progression
- Well-developed arguments with specific examples
- Appropriate academic tone
- Excellent coherence and cohesion
Band 6.5 Essay Features:
- Basic vocabulary with some attempt at complex structures
- Clear but simple organization
- Basic arguments with limited development
- Informal tone at times
- Adequate coherence but basic linking
Key Vocabulary
- renewable (adj) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl/ – capable of being replaced by natural processes
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪnfrəstrʌktʃə/ – basic physical structures needed for operation
- viable (adj) /ˈvaɪəbəl/ – capable of working successfully
- emissions (n) /ɪˈmɪʃənz/ – substances released into the air
- cost-effective (adj) /kɒst-ɪˈfektɪv/ – providing good value for money
Visual comparison between renewable and traditional energy sources
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The role of nuclear power in sustainable energy
- Government subsidies for household solar installations
- The economic impact of transitioning to renewable energy
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
