Marine conservation and ocean protection have become increasingly common topics in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing in approximately 15% of environment-related questions since 2019. This trend aligns with growing global environmental concerns and impact of ocean pollution on food chains. Let’s examine a recent IELTS question and analyze sample responses across different band scores.
IELTS Writing Task 2 Sample Essays on Ocean Conservation
Question Analysis
Some people believe that governments should invest more money in protecting endangered marine species, while others think this money should be spent on other important issues. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question requires candidates to:
- Discuss arguments for investing in marine species protection
- Present opposing viewpoints about alternative spending priorities
- Provide a balanced analysis
- State and justify personal opinion
Band 8 Sample Essay
The debate over allocating government funds between marine conservation and other pressing issues has gained significant attention, particularly given the effects of overfishing on ocean ecosystems. While both perspectives have merit, I believe a balanced approach favoring marine protection is crucial.
Those advocating for increased marine conservation funding argue that protecting endangered sea creatures is vital for maintaining ecological balance. The extinction of key marine species could trigger devastating chain reactions throughout ocean ecosystems, ultimately affecting human food security and coastal economies. Moreover, many marine species possess undiscovered potential for medical breakthroughs, making their preservation essential for scientific advancement.
However, opponents contend that governments face numerous urgent challenges requiring immediate attention. They emphasize that issues like healthcare, education, and poverty alleviation directly impact human lives and deserve priority in budget allocation. These critics argue that investing heavily in marine conservation while citizens lack basic necessities would be socially irresponsible.
In my view, while other societal needs are undoubtedly important, protecting marine life deserves substantial government investment due to its far-reaching implications. The importance of biodiversity in maintaining ecosystem balance cannot be overlooked, as healthy oceans are fundamental to human survival and global economic stability. Governments should implement a comprehensive funding strategy that addresses both immediate social needs and long-term environmental sustainability.
Government Funding Distribution for Marine Conservation
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Many people disagree about whether governments should spend more money on saving endangered sea animals or use it for other important things. I will discuss both sides and share my thoughts.
Some people think governments should give more money to protect marine animals. This is because many sea creatures are dying due to pollution and fishing. If we don’t help them now, they might disappear forever. For example, sea turtles and whales are important for ocean health and tourism.
On the other hand, some believe there are more important things to spend money on. They think problems like hospitals, schools, and helping poor people should come first. These issues affect people’s daily lives directly, while saving sea animals might not show immediate benefits.
I think both views are important, but we should focus more on protecting marine life. The importance of protecting marine ecosystems for biodiversity is crucial because if ocean animals die out, it will affect everyone. We need to find ways to help both people and sea creatures.
Key Vocabulary
- Marine conservation (n) /məˈriːn kɒnsəˈveɪʃən/ – the protection of ocean ecosystems
- Biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of life in an ecosystem
- Ecological balance (n) /ˌiːkəˈlɒdʒɪkəl ˈbæləns/ – stability in natural ecosystems
- Preservation (n) /ˌprezəˈveɪʃən/ – protection from harm or destruction
- Chain reaction (n) /tʃeɪn riˈækʃən/ – series of related events
- Ecosystem (n) /ˈiːkəʊˌsɪstəm/ – community of living organisms
- Sustainability (n) /səˌsteɪnəˈbɪləti/ – ability to maintain ecological balance
Practice Suggestions
Consider practicing with these related topics:
- The role of international cooperation in marine conservation
- Balancing economic development with ocean protection
- The impact of plastic pollution on marine ecosystems
Share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion. Remember to focus on clear organization, relevant examples, and appropriate vocabulary usage.
