Environmental topics, particularly plastic pollution, have consistently appeared in IELTS Writing Task 2 over the past decade. Based on analysis of recent exam patterns, questions about reducing plastic waste appear approximately every 4-6 months, making it a high-probability topic for future tests. Let’s examine a recent question that has appeared in actual IELTS tests:
Plastic pollution has become a serious environmental problem. What are the causes of this issue and what measures can be taken to reduce it?
Analysis of Question Requirements
This question follows a classic problem-solution pattern requiring candidates to:
- Identify main causes of plastic pollution
- Propose specific solutions
- Maintain a balanced discussion of both aspects
Sample Essay 1 (Band 8.5)
The proliferation of plastic waste has emerged as one of the most pressing environmental challenges of our time, wreaking havoc on ecosystems worldwide. This essay will examine the primary factors contributing to this crisis and propose viable solutions to address it.
The root causes of plastic pollution are manifold. The main driver is our society’s excessive dependence on single-use plastics, particularly in packaging and consumer goods, which has been exacerbated by the rise of convenience culture and online shopping. Additionally, inadequate waste management infrastructure in many countries means that a significant portion of plastic waste ends up in waterways and oceans. The situation is further complicated by the durability of plastic materials, which can take centuries to decompose.
However, several effective measures can be implemented to tackle this issue. Governments should introduce stringent regulations on plastic production and usage, such as banning single-use plastics and implementing mandatory recycling programs. Businesses can contribute by developing eco-friendly alternatives to plastic packaging and adopting circular economy principles. At an individual level, consumers can make conscious choices to reduce their plastic consumption by using reusable bags, bottles, and containers.
In conclusion, while plastic pollution poses a significant environmental threat, a combination of governmental regulation, business innovation, and individual action can help mitigate this problem. Only through collective effort can we hope to address this global challenge effectively.
Sample Essay 2 (Band 6.5)
Plastic pollution is a big problem in our world today. This essay will discuss why this happens and what we can do about it.
There are several reasons why plastic pollution is increasing. First, many people use too much plastic in their daily life, like plastic bags and bottles. Second, some countries don’t have good systems to collect and recycle plastic waste. Also, plastic is cheap to make but takes very long time to break down in nature.
To solve this problem, we can take some actions. The government can make laws to stop companies from using too much plastic packaging. People can also help by using fewer plastic products and recycling more. Schools should teach students about the dangers of plastic pollution.
In conclusion, plastic pollution is caused by many factors, but we can reduce it if everyone works together. Both governments and people need to take action to protect our environment.
Scoring Analysis
Band 8.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Thoroughly addresses all parts of the question
- Coherence/Cohesion: Logical organization with clear progression
- Lexical Resource: Sophisticated vocabulary with natural and precise usage
- Grammar: Wide range of complex structures used accurately
Band 6.5 Essay:
- Task Response: Addresses main aspects but lacks depth
- Coherence/Cohesion: Basic organization but sometimes unclear
- Lexical Resource: Adequate but repetitive vocabulary
- Grammar: Mix of simple and complex structures with some errors
Key Vocabulary
- proliferation (n) /prəˌlɪf.əˈreɪ.ʃən/ – rapid increase
- exacerbate (v) /ɪɡˈzæs.ər.beɪt/ – make worse
- stringent (adj) /ˈstrɪn.dʒənt/ – strict, severe
- viable (adj) /ˈvaɪ.ə.bəl/ – feasible, practical
- manifold (adj) /ˈmæn.ɪ.foʊld/ – many and various
- infrastructure (n) /ˈɪn.frə.strʌk.tʃər/ – basic systems and services
- durability (n) /ˌdʊr.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – ability to last long
- mitigation (n) /ˌmɪt.ɪˈɡeɪ.ʃən/ – reduction of harmful effects
For practice, try writing your own essay on this similar topic:
“Some people believe that governments should focus on reducing plastic production, while others think changing consumer behavior is more important. Discuss both views and give your opinion.”
Share your practice essays in the comments for feedback and improvement!