Renewable energy has become an increasingly popular topic in IELTS Writing Task 2 essays. Based on recent trends and the growing global focus on sustainability, it’s highly likely that questions related to renewable energy benefits will continue to appear in future IELTS exams. Let’s explore this topic through a carefully selected question and analyze sample essays across different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people think that the government should invest more money in developing renewable energy sources. To what extent do you agree or disagree?
This question asks for your opinion on government investment in renewable energy. It’s an “agree or disagree” type question, which means you need to clearly state your position and support it with relevant arguments and examples.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9
In my opinion, I strongly agree that governments should allocate more funds towards the development of renewable energy sources. This investment is crucial for addressing climate change, ensuring energy security, and fostering economic growth.
Firstly, increasing investment in renewable energy is essential for combating climate change. Fossil fuels are the primary contributors to greenhouse gas emissions, which are driving global warming. By investing in clean energy technologies such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, governments can significantly reduce carbon emissions and mitigate the impacts of climate change. For instance, countries like Germany and Denmark have made substantial progress in reducing their carbon footprint by heavily investing in wind and solar energy.
Moreover, developing renewable energy sources enhances energy security. Unlike fossil fuels, which are finite and often controlled by a few countries, renewable energy can be generated locally. This reduces dependence on foreign energy sources and protects nations from price volatility in the global energy market. For example, Iceland’s investment in geothermal energy has allowed it to achieve near-complete energy independence, demonstrating the potential of renewable sources.
Furthermore, investment in renewable energy can drive economic growth and job creation. The renewable energy sector is rapidly expanding and offers numerous employment opportunities in manufacturing, installation, and maintenance of clean energy technologies. According to the International Renewable Energy Agency, the sector employed 11.5 million people globally in 2019, a number that continues to grow. By investing in this sector, governments can stimulate economic development while simultaneously addressing environmental concerns.
However, it is important to acknowledge that transitioning to renewable energy sources requires significant upfront costs and may face technical challenges. Governments need to balance these investments with other pressing needs such as healthcare and education. Nevertheless, the long-term benefits of renewable energy in terms of environmental protection, energy security, and economic growth far outweigh these initial challenges.
In conclusion, I firmly believe that increased government investment in renewable energy sources is not only beneficial but necessary for a sustainable future. While there may be short-term challenges, the long-term advantages for the environment, energy independence, and economy make it a worthwhile and crucial investment.
(Word count: 345)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates excellent qualities that align with Band 8-9 criteria:
- Clear position: The writer clearly states their strong agreement with the statement.
- Well-developed arguments: Each paragraph focuses on a distinct benefit of renewable energy investment.
- Relevant examples: The essay provides specific examples (Germany, Denmark, Iceland) to support its points.
- Cohesion and coherence: Ideas flow logically, with appropriate use of linking words.
- Lexical resource: The essay uses a wide range of vocabulary accurately (e.g., “mitigate”, “finite”, “volatility”).
- Grammatical range and accuracy: Complex sentence structures are used correctly throughout.
- Task response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, presenting a well-developed response.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7
I agree that the government should invest more money in developing renewable energy sources. This is important for the environment and for the future of energy.
One reason why this investment is good is because it helps the environment. Renewable energy like solar and wind power doesn’t make pollution like coal and oil do. This means less air pollution and less global warming. For example, when countries use more solar panels, they burn less coal and this helps reduce CO2 emissions.
Another benefit is that renewable energy can last forever. We will never run out of sunlight or wind, but one day we will run out of oil and coal. If we invest in renewable energy now, we will have energy for the future. This is important for every country to have enough energy.
Also, investing in renewable energy can create new jobs. Many people can work in making solar panels or building wind turbines. This helps the economy grow. For instance, in some countries, there are now more jobs in solar energy than in coal mining.
However, there are some problems with renewable energy. It can be expensive to start using it, and sometimes it doesn’t work well, like when there’s no wind for wind turbines. But I think these problems can be solved with more investment and research.
In conclusion, I believe the government should invest more in renewable energy because it’s good for the environment, it provides long-lasting energy, and it can create jobs. Even though there are some challenges, the benefits are more important for our future.
(Word count: 269)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates qualities that align with Band 6-7 criteria:
- Clear position: The writer states their agreement with the statement.
- Argument development: The essay presents several reasons for supporting renewable energy investment.
- Examples: Some examples are provided, though they are more general than in the Band 8-9 essay.
- Cohesion: The essay uses basic linking words to connect ideas.
- Vocabulary: The vocabulary is appropriate but less sophisticated than in the Band 8-9 essay.
- Grammar: Sentences are generally well-formed, with some variety in structure.
- Task response: The essay addresses the task, though the response is less fully developed than the Band 8-9 essay.
Key Vocabulary for Renewable Energy Essays
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Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuːəbəl ˈenədʒi/: Energy from a source that is not depleted when used.
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Sustainable (adjective) /səˈsteɪnəbəl/: Able to be maintained at a certain rate or level.
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Carbon footprint (noun) /ˈkɑːbən ˈfʊtprɪnt/: The amount of carbon dioxide released into the atmosphere as a result of activities.
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Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒsəl fjuːəlz/: A natural fuel such as coal or gas, formed in the geological past from the remains of living organisms.
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Energy security (noun) /ˈenədʒi sɪˈkjʊərəti/: The association between national security and the availability of natural resources for energy consumption.
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Greenhouse gas emissions (noun) /ˈɡriːnhaʊs ɡæs ɪˈmɪʃənz/: The release of gases that contribute to the greenhouse effect.
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Climate change mitigation (noun) /ˈklaɪmət tʃeɪndʒ ˌmɪtɪˈɡeɪʃən/: Efforts to reduce or prevent emission of greenhouse gases.
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Energy independence (noun) /ˈenədʒi ˌɪndɪˈpendəns/: The ability of a country to manage its own energy needs without relying on foreign sources.
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Carbon-neutral (adjective) /ˈkɑːbən ˈnjuːtrəl/: Making no net release of carbon dioxide to the atmosphere.
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Eco-friendly (adjective) /ˈiːkəʊ ˈfrendli/: Not harmful to the environment.
Conclusion
Mastering essays on renewable energy benefits is crucial for success in IELTS Writing Task 2. The sample essays provided demonstrate how to approach this topic at different band levels. Remember to clearly state your position, provide well-developed arguments with relevant examples, and use a range of vocabulary and grammatical structures appropriate to your level.
To further improve your skills, try writing your own essay on this topic:
Some people believe that the use of renewable energy sources should be mandatory for all households. Do you agree or disagree?
Practice writing your response and consider sharing it in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active engagement will help you refine your writing skills and prepare effectively for the IELTS exam.
For more insights on renewable energy and its impact, you might find these articles helpful:
- Renewable Energy’s Environmental Benefits
- The Benefits of Renewable Energy in Combating Climate Change
- The Benefits of Investing in Renewable Energy
Remember, consistent practice and exposure to various perspectives on this topic will enhance your ability to write compelling essays in your IELTS Writing Task 2.