The topic of genetically modified crops and food security has been a recurring theme in IELTS Writing Task 2, appearing approximately 2-3 times annually since 2019. This frequency suggests its continued relevance in future tests, particularly given the growing global concerns about food security and sustainable agriculture.
Let’s examine one of the most common question types on this topic that has appeared in recent IELTS tests:
Some people think that genetically modified crops are the best solution to solve world food scarcity. To what extent do you agree or disagree with this statement?
Analysis of the Question
This question requires candidates to express their opinion about using GM crops to address global food shortages. It’s an agree/disagree essay that demands a clear position and well-supported arguments.
Genetically modified crops debate in modern agriculture
Band 8 Sample Essay
In recent years, the role of technology in promoting sustainable agriculture has become increasingly prominent, especially regarding genetically modified (GM) crops. While these crops offer some potential benefits, I partially agree that they represent the optimal solution to global food scarcity.
GM crops can indeed contribute significantly to addressing food shortages. These modified varieties often demonstrate enhanced resistance to pests, diseases, and adverse weather conditions, resulting in higher crop yields. For instance, drought-resistant corn varieties have helped farmers maintain production even during periods of limited rainfall. Additionally, GM crops can be engineered to contain higher nutritional value, addressing both quantity and quality aspects of food security.
However, relying solely on GM crops oversimplifies the complex challenge of food scarcity. The effects of climate change on food and water security demonstrate that multiple approaches are necessary. Distribution inefficiencies, food waste, and economic inequality often play more significant roles in food insecurity than production limitations. Furthermore, the ethical implications of genetic engineering raise concerns about biodiversity loss and potential long-term environmental impacts.
A more comprehensive approach would combine GM technology with other solutions. How to address food insecurity through sustainable agriculture should include improving traditional farming methods, reducing food waste, and ensuring equitable food distribution. Additionally, regulating GMOs while supporting smaller-scale farmers can create a more balanced and sustainable food system.
In conclusion, while GM crops offer valuable benefits, they should be viewed as one component of a broader strategy to address global food scarcity rather than the definitive solution.
Comprehensive approach to solving food scarcity through multiple methods
Band 6.5 Sample Essay
Nowadays, some people believe that GM crops are the best way to solve world hunger. In my opinion, I partly agree with this idea because while GM crops have some advantages, they also have several problems that need to be considered.
On the positive side, GM crops can help produce more food. These crops are made to grow better and faster than normal plants, and they can survive bad weather or insects. For example, scientists have made rice that can grow in salty water, which helps farmers in coastal areas. Also, GM crops sometimes have more vitamins and nutrients than regular crops.
However, there are some problems with GM crops. First, they are expensive for poor farmers to buy. Second, some people worry about their safety and effects on health. Additionally, when farmers only grow GM crops, it might reduce the variety of plants in nature, which is not good for the environment.
I think the best way to solve food scarcity is to use both GM crops and other methods. We should improve regular farming, stop wasting food, and make sure food gets to people who need it. Also, governments should help poor farmers and make rules about GM crops.
In conclusion, while GM crops can help with food shortages, they should not be seen as the only solution to this problem.
Analysis of Band Scores
Band 8 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (Band 8): Clear position with balanced arguments
- Coherence & Cohesion (Band 8): Logical organization with effective paragraphing
- Lexical Resource (Band 8): Sophisticated vocabulary usage
- Grammar (Band 8): Complex sentence structures with minimal errors
Band 6.5 Essay Analysis
- Task Response (Band 6.5): Clear but simpler arguments
- Coherence & Cohesion (Band 6.5): Basic organization with some linking
- Lexical Resource (Band 6): Limited but adequate vocabulary
- Grammar (Band 7): Mix of simple and complex structures
Key Vocabulary
- food scarcity (n) /ˈskɛəsɪti/ – shortage of food
- genetically modified (adj) /dʒəˈnɛtɪkli ˈmɒdɪfaɪd/ – altered through genetic engineering
- sustainable agriculture (n) /səˈsteɪnəbl ˈæɡrɪkʌltʃə/ – farming methods that protect resources
- biodiversity (n) /ˌbaɪəʊdaɪˈvɜːsɪti/ – variety of life forms in an environment
- distribution inefficiencies (n) /ˌdɪstrɪˈbjuːʃən ɪnɪˈfɪʃənsiz/ – problems in food delivery systems
Consider practicing with these similar topics:
- The role of vertical farming in urban food security
- Traditional farming methods versus modern agricultural technology
- The impact of climate change on global food production
Feel free to share your practice essays in the comments section for feedback and discussion.
