The debate between renewable energy and fossil fuels has become increasingly prevalent in IELTS Writing Task 2 prompts. This topic’s frequency in past exams suggests a high likelihood of its appearance in future tests. Given its relevance to global environmental concerns and economic policies, it’s crucial for IELTS candidates to be well-prepared to discuss this subject. Let’s explore a sample question and analyze multiple essay responses across different band scores.
Analyzing the Question
Some people believe that the use of fossil fuels is essential for the world’s economy, while others argue that renewable energy sources should completely replace fossil fuels. Discuss both views and give your own opinion.
This question presents a classic IELTS Writing Task 2 format, asking candidates to discuss two opposing viewpoints and provide their own perspective. The topic centers on the ongoing debate between the continued use of fossil fuels and the transition to renewable energy sources, considering their impacts on the global economy.
Sample Essay 1: Band 8-9 Response
The global energy debate has intensified in recent years, with proponents on both sides arguing for their preferred energy sources. While some contend that fossil fuels remain crucial for economic stability and growth, others advocate for a complete shift to renewable energy. This essay will examine both perspectives before presenting my own viewpoint on this critical issue.
Those who support the continued use of fossil fuels often cite their reliability and established infrastructure as key reasons. Fossil fuels have powered industrial growth for centuries, providing a consistent and easily transportable energy source. Moreover, many economies, particularly in developing nations, are heavily dependent on fossil fuel industries for employment and revenue generation. A sudden shift away from these resources could potentially destabilize entire regions economically.
On the other hand, proponents of renewable energy argue that a transition is not only environmentally necessary but also economically beneficial in the long term. Renewable sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power offer clean, sustainable alternatives that could significantly reduce greenhouse gas emissions and mitigate climate change. Furthermore, the renewable energy sector has shown remarkable growth in recent years, creating new jobs and driving technological innovation. Countries investing heavily in renewables, like Germany and Denmark, have demonstrated that economic prosperity and sustainable energy practices can coexist.
In my opinion, while the importance of fossil fuels in our current economic framework cannot be denied, the long-term benefits of transitioning to renewable energy far outweigh the short-term challenges. The environmental imperative to reduce carbon emissions, coupled with the increasing cost-effectiveness of renewable technologies, makes a compelling case for accelerating this transition. However, I believe this shift should be gradual and strategically implemented to minimize economic disruption.
A balanced approach that promotes the steady growth of renewable energy sectors while carefully phasing out fossil fuel dependence seems most prudent. This strategy would allow for the development of new green industries and job markets while providing time for fossil fuel-dependent economies to diversify. Additionally, investing in research and development of energy storage solutions and grid infrastructure would address the intermittency issues often associated with renewable sources.
Renewable Energy vs Fossil Fuels
In conclusion, while fossil fuels have been the backbone of global economic growth, the future lies in renewable energy. The transition may pose challenges, but with proper planning and international cooperation, it offers a path to sustainable economic development and environmental preservation. The world must embrace this change not as a threat to economic stability, but as an opportunity for innovation and progress.
(Word count: 398)
Analysis of Band 8-9 Essay
This essay demonstrates several qualities that contribute to its high band score:
Task Response: The essay fully addresses all parts of the task, discussing both viewpoints and clearly presenting the writer’s opinion.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay is well-organized with clear paragraphing and effective use of cohesive devices.
Lexical Resource: A wide range of vocabulary is used accurately and appropriately, with sophisticated phrases like “mitigate climate change” and “environmental imperative”.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay showcases a variety of complex sentence structures with minimal errors.
Development of Ideas: Each point is well-developed with relevant examples and explanations.
Sample Essay 2: Band 6-7 Response
The debate between using fossil fuels and renewable energy is a hot topic these days. Some people think fossil fuels are still very important for the world’s economy, but others say we should switch completely to renewable energy. I will discuss both sides and give my opinion.
Fossil fuels have been used for a long time and they are still important for many reasons. First, many countries depend on oil and coal for their economy. These industries provide jobs and money for governments. Also, fossil fuels are reliable and can produce energy any time, unlike some renewable sources that depend on the weather. Many factories and vehicles still need fossil fuels to work properly.
On the other hand, renewable energy is becoming more popular because it’s better for the environment. Solar and wind power don’t produce pollution, which is good for fighting climate change. Renewable energy is also getting cheaper as technology improves. Some countries are already using a lot of renewable energy and creating new jobs in this sector. In the long run, renewable energy might be more sustainable for the economy.
In my opinion, we should try to use more renewable energy, but we can’t stop using fossil fuels right away. I think we need a balanced approach. We should invest more in renewable energy and slowly reduce our use of fossil fuels. This way, we can protect the environment without causing big economic problems.
To do this, governments should give more support to renewable energy projects and help workers in fossil fuel industries to find new jobs. We also need to improve technology to make renewable energy more reliable and efficient.
In conclusion, while fossil fuels are still important for the economy right now, renewable energy is the future. We need to find a way to switch to cleaner energy without hurting the economy too much. This change will take time, but it’s necessary for a sustainable future.
(Word count: 309)
Analysis of Band 6-7 Essay
This essay demonstrates characteristics typical of a Band 6-7 response:
Task Response: The essay addresses all parts of the task, though the discussion of each view and the writer’s opinion could be more developed.
Coherence and Cohesion: The essay has a clear structure, but the use of cohesive devices is less sophisticated compared to the Band 8-9 essay.
Lexical Resource: The vocabulary is appropriate but less varied, with some repetition and less precise word choices.
Grammatical Range and Accuracy: The essay uses a mix of simple and complex sentences, with occasional errors that do not impede communication.
Development of Ideas: Ideas are presented clearly but could be supported with more specific examples and deeper analysis.
Key Vocabulary for IELTS Writing on Renewable Energy vs Fossil Fuels
Fossil fuels (noun) /ˈfɒs.əl ˌfjuːəlz/ – Coal, oil, or natural gas, formed from the remains of plants or animals.
Renewable energy (noun) /rɪˈnjuː.ə.bəl ˈen.ə.dʒi/ – Energy from a source that is not depleted when used, such as wind or solar power.
Sustainability (noun) /səˌsteɪ.nəˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – The ability to continue or be continued for a long time.
Carbon emissions (noun) /ˈkɑː.bən ɪˈmɪʃ.ənz/ – The release of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere.
Economic viability (noun phrase) /ˌiː.kəˈnɒm.ɪk ˌvaɪ.əˈbɪl.ə.ti/ – The ability of a business, project, or idea to function and sustain itself financially.
Infrastructure (noun) /ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ – The basic systems and services that a country or organization uses in order to work effectively.
Intermittency (noun) /ˌɪn.təˈmɪt.ənt.si/ – The quality of stopping and starting at irregular intervals.
Energy transition (noun phrase) /ˈen.ə.dʒi trænˈzɪʃ.ən/ – The shift from fossil-based systems of energy production and consumption to renewable energy sources.
Grid infrastructure (noun phrase) /ɡrɪd ˈɪn.frəˌstrʌk.tʃər/ – The network for delivering electricity from producers to consumers.
Diversification (noun) /daɪˌvɜː.sɪ.fɪˈkeɪ.ʃən/ – The process of a business or country varying its range of products or fields of operation.
Conclusion
The debate between renewable energy and fossil fuels is likely to remain a significant topic in IELTS Writing Task 2. Future prompts might explore specific aspects such as:
- The role of government policies in promoting renewable energy
- The impact of renewable energy on job markets
- Challenges in implementing renewable energy in developing countries
- The economic feasibility of a complete transition to renewable energy
To prepare effectively, practice writing essays on these related topics, focusing on developing balanced arguments and supporting your points with relevant examples. Remember to structure your essay clearly, use a range of vocabulary, and demonstrate your ability to analyze complex issues.
We encourage you to practice writing an essay on the prompt provided in this article. Share your essay in the comments section below for feedback and discussion. This active practice is an excellent way to improve your IELTS Writing skills and prepare for the actual test.